Friday, April 30, 2010

Arnold Waters.


Arnold Waters.

Birth: Nov. 7, 1830, Ashton-Under-Lyne, England.
Death: Mar. 2, 1923, Cedar Vale, Chautauqua County, Kansas.

Photo provided by Pam Barns

Arnold Waters enlisted on September 4, 1861 in his home town of Salem, Columbiana, Ohio and served in Company I of the First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry in the Union Army under Capt. Alexander T. Snodgrass and later under Colonel Benjamin F. Smith. He reported for duty October 31, 1861 at Camp Corwin, a Civil War training camp located on a hill two and one-half miles east of downtown Dayton. The First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry served in a number of important battles during the Civil War. The Regiment saw its initial battle at Pittsburg Landing and closed its career near Atlanta.

Arnold Waters took part in the Battles of Shilloh, Stone River, Lookout Mountain, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, and the Seige of Vicksburg. He was honorably discharged and mustered out by reason of expiration of term of service on September 14, 1864.

Authors Note. Those of you who would like to learn more about Arnold Waters and his family can do so at the site of ( Find a grave.)

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Francis Marion Wallace


Francis Marion "Frank" Wallace.

Birth: 1844.
Death: 1920.

Photo provided by Pam.

FRANCIS M. Wallace, Rank Private, Company C., Unit 118 ILL U. S. Infantry, Residence LEE CO, ILL., Age 19, Height 5' 5, Hair DARK, Eyes GRAY, Complexion FAIR, Occupation FARMER, Nativity PEORIA CO, ILL., Joined When JAN 30, 1864, Joined Where CARTHAGE, ILL., Joined By Whom MAJ. MCCLAUGHREY, Period 3 YRS, Muster In JAN 30, 1864, Muster In Where CAMP BUTLER, ILL., Muster Out OCT 1, 1865, Muster Out Where BATON ROUGE, LA. Muster Out By Whom LT. SCHRYVER.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Bill Doolin And The Town Of Burden Kansas.



Burden Kansas seemed to be a quiet little town like most towns of Kansas. But Burden would soon be known as the hideout of the notorious Bill Doolin, train robber and gunslinger. The Doolin gang had split up in the summer of 1895, In September of 1895, Doolin took his wife and child away from Lawson Oklahoma, and head for the populated Osage county. The Doolin family toured Osage county for a while then his wife took ill, Doolin droved north to Burden where his wife had family. While there the family lived in a tent that had been pitched near a spring, about a mile and a half west of town, on a farm owned by a Mr. Johnnie Wilson. Will at Burden Bill used the name of ( Thomas Wilson ), and posed as an impoverished would-be-homesteader, who had not yet found his land.

Every couple of weeks he drove into town for supplies, “in a dilapidated old wagon hitched to a team managed with rope lines, dressed in ragged clothes and looking the part of a played-out Oklahoma boomer. In truth Doolin probably had enough stolen loot stashed away to buy and sell half the people in town. Word soon got around about “that poor suffering family out there in the tent.” The kind hearted citizens Burden were soon being food and clothing to the suffering family.

Bill had it made for a while then Marshal Bill Tilghman of Oklahoma who been on the trail of Doolin for many months received a tip to Doolin’s whereabouts and headed for Kansas. But about this time Doolin was getting a uneasy feeling about the attention the family was getting. Two days before marshal tilghman rode into town Doolin had packed up his family and left for some unknown parts leaving marshal Tilghman no trail to follow.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

James Harvey Summers, Sr.


James Harvey Summers, Sr.

Birth: Nov. 7, 1826, Mount Sterling, Montgomery County, Kentucky.
Death: Jan. 12, 1902, Beloit, Mitchell County, Kansas.

Photo provided by Mark Vernon

James served two terms in the Civil War. In 1861 he was mustered as a 1st Lieutenant in the 5th Regt. Kansas Cavalry. He was promoted to Major, but resigned in Feb. of 1862. His arm had been broken in combat and this injury would hamper him for the rest of his life. He returned to Iowa and in 1864 was commissioned as Captain of the 48th Iowa Infantry Co. C.

Authors Note. To read more about James H. Summers, go to the site of ( Find a grave ), there you will learn more about him and his family.

Monday, April 26, 2010

Lafayette "Lafe" Shadley.



Lafayette "Lafe" Shadley.

Birth: Jun. 6, 1844
Death: Sep. 3, 1893, Oklahoma.

Photo provided by Cherokee Rose

Lafayette Shadley was born on June 4th, 1844, near Zanesville, Licking county, Ohio, and would have been 49 years and three months of age had he lived another day. His parents removed while he was still young to Davis county, Iowa, where he lived until in July, 1862, at the age of eighteen he enlisted in Co. B, 30th Iowa Volunteer Infantry. With his regiment he participated in the siege of Vicksburg and the seven days battle at Jackson, Miss. He was in the battles of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge and Ringold and was with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. During nine months of his service in the army he acted on a detail as cannonier of the 1st Iowa Battery. He was mustered out of the U. S. service on June 5th, 1865; and on February 4th, 1866, was united in marriage to Malinda Randolph. They continued to reside in Davis county, Iowa, until November, 1879, when they removed to Kansas, settling in Drum Creek township on a place which he still owned at the time of his death.

In November, 1879, he was elected sheriff of Montgomery county, and in 1881 he was re-elected. From 1884 until 1888 he served a deputy sheriff under Os. McCreary. In 1889 he was appointed chief of police of the Osage Nation, a difficult and dangerous position whose duties he discharged with zeal and fidelity, until relieved a few weeks ago upon the appointment of a democratic successor. When he retired from office he had just located the band of robbers who held up a Santa Fe train at Cimarron last spring, and had since been endeavoring to organize a posse to capture them. Last week he received a telegram from Deputy Marshal Hixon, of Oklahoma, asking his aid in the capture of the Dalton-Starr gang, which was making its headquarters at Ingalls, near the northeast corner of that territory. He responded promptly, hoping to be able to run down the men he was after at the same time, and went, as it proved, to his death.

Lafayette "Lafe" Shadley, Burial is at Mount Hope Cemetery, Independence, Montgomery County, Kansas.

Ingalls Oklahoma.

On September 1, 1893, the town of Ingalls Oklahoma, was the scene of the famous “Ingalls Raid,” a shootout between the Doolin bunch and federal officers. The outlaws were playing poker at Ransom’s Saloon when the officers arrived hidden in two covered wagons. A gang member noticed the wagon, and “Bitter Creek” Newcomb was sent to investigate. As Newcomb rode up, one of the lawmen, federal officer Dick Speed, was standing in the doorway of the Piece and Hostetter feed barn, questioning a young boy. When the officer saw Newcomb and asked the boy who he was, the youth said, “Why that’s Bitter Creek.” Seeing the boy pointing at him Newcomb reached for his Winchester.

Officer Speed was quicker, and his shot knocked the magazine off Newcomb’s rifle, the bullet ricocheting downward into the outlaw’s right leg. Newcomb managed one shot, then wheeled his horse to escape. Speed stepped from the doorway for another shot, just as gang member “Arkansas Tom” Jones leaned out of an upper window of the O. K. Hotel. Jones saw Speed and put a bullet into the lawman’s shoulder. Dazed, Speed ran for the wagon instead of taking shelter in the barn, and a second shot from Jones’s rifle killed him. In the meantime Newcomb was racing for the road south of town. Doolin and the rest of the gang were firing from the saloon, trying to cover Newcomb’s escape.

The officers now converged on the saloon firing as they advanced. Inside, the saloon owner, Ransom, was hit twice--in the rib and in the arm. The outlaws, however, seemed blessed with good luck: the lawmen over looked a side door, and all five desperados slipped out and made a dashed for the livery stable where they had left their horses. As Doolin and Clifton threw on the saddles, Dalton, Tulsa Jack, and Red Buck held off their attackers. Meanwhile, Arkansas Tom Jones had chopped a hole in the roof of the hotel and put two bullets into another deputy, Tom Hueston ( Sometimes spelled Huston ), who was firing from behind a pile of lumber.

When all the horses were saddles the outlaws broke in two directions: Doolin and Clifton raced out the rear door towards the southwest in the direction of a deep ravine a few hundred yards away and Dalton, Tulsa jack, and Red Buck burst through the front door, then turned and also headed for the ravine. All made it to safety except Dalton. A bullet hit his horse in the jaw and another broke its leg. He leaped from his saddle, scrambled over an embankment, and ran on foot until spotted by Tulsa Jack, who returned and took him aboard his horse.

The five outlaws had made their escape. The only casualty was Clifton, having taken a bullet in the fleshy part of his neck. Newcomb also escaped. Back in town, Arkansas Tom Jones was still firing from the O. K. Hotel. While his comrades were racing away from the livery stable, he picked off another officer, Lafe Shadley. But Jones was trapped and he knew it. On learning that all his comrades had left him, he threw out his weapon.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Thomas Vinton Reed & Cynthia Ann Maulsby Reed .



Thomas Vinton Reed.

Birth: Feb. 15, 1837.
Death: Dec. 13, 1922

Photos by Suzi Terrell

Parents:
Thomas Reed (1812 - 1890)
Maria Reed (1814 - 1894)

Thomas V. Reed Civil War

Iowa 34th, Iowa Infantry Company C. & B.

Reed, Thomas J. (Co. C, & Consolidated Co B) Age 25. Residence Warren County, nativity Indiana. Enlisted Aug. 13, 1862. Mustered Oct 15, 1862. Transferred to 34th Consolidated Battalion, Nov. 12, 1864 (AKA Thomas V. Reed & Thomas V. Reid)

Cynthia Ann Maulsby Reed.

Birth: Nov. 7, 1841.
Death: Oct. 2, 1907.

Children:
Alpheus Scott Reed (1869 - 1955.)




Note: For more information visit www.keeperofthefamily.com

Uri Balcom Pearsall.


Uri Balcom Pearsall.

Birth: Jul. 17, 1840.
Death: Feb. 28, 1907.

Photo by Ethan F. Bishop

Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Served in the Civil War first as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 4th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He was later promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of the 99th United States Colored Troops before becoming the Colonel and commander of the 48th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "meritorious services during the war". (bio by: Russ Dodge)

Biography.

His career in the Civil War was particularly noteworthy. He entered the service as a private in the 4th Wisconsin Volunteers on May 14, 1861. His advancement was rapid, finally reaching the position of Colonel. He was a breveted brigadier general for meritorious service. He was Lt. Col. of the 99th Colored Troops and later became colonel of the 48th Wisconsin Infantry.

Many of his relatives served in the Civil War including four brothers-in-law, Albert, Marcus, Chauncey and Erastus Peck. Corp. Chauncey T. Peck and Capt. Albert E. Peck were killed on May 15, 1864 at almost the same instant in the bloody Battle of Resaca, Georgia.

Although quite young he had broad experience in the organization and training of men. However, he felt on account of his youth and inexperience in military affairs that he could not in justice to the men who would under his command accept a commission. He often said that the results of a campaign depended on the brains and magnetism oof the officers and the success depended upon the men.

He was twice elected mayor of Fort Scott, Kansas and delegate to the 1st constitutional convention of Kansas. General U.B. Pearsall Post #500, Grand Army of the Republic of Kansas was chartered in his memory on April 15, 1912.
At the time of his death on February 28, 1907, he was quartermaster at the Soldier's Home in Leavenworth, Kansas.

The 100th anniversary of his death is in one week, I thought it would be appropriate to let people in Kansas know about this man who was important in Kansas history over a century ago.

Submitted by, Jerome L. Orton, PDC, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War,
213 Dixon Dr., Syracuse, NY 13219-2711

Friday, April 23, 2010

Colonel Charles W. Adams- Kansas12th, Infantry.


Charles W. Adams.

Birth: May 31, 1834.
Death: Mar. 8, 1909.

Photo provided by Ethan F. Bishop

Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. He served in the Civil War as Colonel and commander of the 12th Kansas Volunteer Infantry, being commissioned on September 30, 1862. He led the unit in engagements at Baxter Springs, Kansas, and Jenkin's Ferry and Camden, Arkansas. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on February 13, 1865, and was mustered out of service on June 30, 1865.
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HDQRS. 6TH MIL. DIST., MO., Lexington, December 9, 1862.

Major-General CURTIS, Commanding Department of the Missouri:

GENERAL: I herewith in close to you the charges and specifications against Colonel Charles W. Adams of the Twelfth Regiment of Kansas:

AGAINST COLONEL ADAMS.

CHARGE 1st.-Violation of the thirty-third article of war.

Specification 1st.-In this, that Colonel Charles W. Adams, commanding Twelfth Regiment of Kansas Volunteers, with a portion of said regiment, between the 20th and 27th of November, 1862, in the counties of Jackson and La Fayette, in the State of Missouri, did rob, plunder, and despoil the inhabitants of said counties of their horses, mules, oxen, wagons, beds, bedding, and household furniture.

Specification 2nd.-In this, that Colonel Charles W. Adams, commanding Twelfth Regiment of Kansas Volunteers, did, in the month of November, 1862, with a portion of said regiment, under the pretext of following guerrillas and bushwhackers, enter the above-named counties of Jackson and La Fayette, in the State of Missouri, and took from the loyal and disloyal inhabitants of said counties a vast amount of horses, over 100 in number, a large number of oxen, several wagons and carriages, and every species of household furniture, consisting of beds, bedding, bedsteads, chairs, cooking stoves and utensils, and that they also broke to pieces about 30 bee-hives at one farm-house.

CHARGE 2ND.-Violation of orders.

Specification 1st-In this, that Colonel Charles W. Adams, commanding Twelfth Regiment Kansas Volunteers, in violation of the orders of General Blunt, which authorized him to enter the State of Missouri only in pursuit of guerrillas and bushwhackers, did enter the said State of Missouri not in pursuit of guerrillas and bushwhackers, but for the purpose of plundering, robbing, and despoiling the inhabitants of said State of their property.

Specification 2nd.-In this, that said Colonel Charles W. Adams, commanding Twelfth Regiment of Kansas Volunteers, did, in open violation of the orders of General Blunt, which expressly forbade him to interrupt the peaceful and quiet citizens in their rights and property, rob and plunder said citizens of every species of property.

RICH'D C. VAUGHAN,
Brigadier-General, Sixth Military District of Missouri.
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Authors note. There are many reports on this event, if you have any questions you can find my address in my profile, I’ll be glad to help answer your questions.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Marshall Mortimer Murdock.


Marshall Mortimer Murdock.

Birth: Oct. 10, 1837, Morgantown. Monongalia County, West Virginia.
Death: Jan. 2, 1908, Wichita, Sedgwick County, Kansas.

Photo by David G. Stuart.

MARSHALL M. MURDOCK, a pioneer journalist of Kansas, the founder of the Wichita Eagle and one of the marked men of the commonwealth, was born in the Pierpont settlement of what is now West Virginia in 1837. He was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and his father married into the Governor Pierpont family. Soon after his marriage the family moved to Ironton, Southern Ohio, and there Marshall Murdock attended the public schools and commenced to learn the printer's trade.

Thomas Murdock, the father, was unsuccessful in his business venture, and, as he had an abhorrence of slavery and Kansas was then the most pronounced champion of abolitionism in the West, he decided to try his fortune in that part of the country. The family and the household goods were therefore loaded into two covered wagons and a start was made for Topeka; the father drove one team and Marshall, the son, the other. After an overland journey of several weeks they reached their destination and Thomas Murdock settled on a farm near Topeka.

When gold was discovered in the Pike's Peak region, Marshall Murdock started for the excitement, and is said to have been the first to discover silver on the site of Leadville. While he was in the gold fields, the Civil war broke out, his father and two of his brothers enlisted, and he returned to Kansas to care for the younger members of the family. He found employment in the printing office at Lawrence, narrowly escaped the Quantrill raiders and at the threatened invasion of Kansas by Price entered the Union service as lieutenant-colonel of the Osage and Lyon county militia. In 1863 Colonel Murdock located at Burlingame, where he established the Chronicle and served as state senator. With the projection of the Santa Fe line toward Wichita, in 1872, he moved his printing office to that point, and founded the Eagle.

Soon afterward he was elected state senator and served as postmaster of Wichita for many years, holding that position, under appointment of President McKinley, at the time of his death January 2, 1908. A recent writer says of him: "As he was by far a bigger man than the offices he held, his place in the world must be measured in other ways. He reached his highest stature in his profession. He was, by all odds, the best all-around editor in the State. In brilliancy he had no superior, and in public usefulness it is doubtful if he ever had an equal. He was the greatest town boomer and town builder the Middle West has ever known. And he was honest in both. He saw, as through a vision, the future glory of the hamlet with which he had cast his fortune. He believed sincerely that it was destined to become the commercial center of the plains, and advocated every public enterprise that could contribute in any way to make it such. He made the Eagle the oracle of the people, and to those inquiring for the land of promise it was never dumb."

The two sons of the deceased, Victor and Marcellus, have been a credit to their father's ability--the former as a radical member of Congress and the latter as editor and proprietor of the Eagle.

Marshal-Colonel Elias Smith Dennis.



Elias Smith Dennis.

Birth: Dec. 4, 1812
Death: Dec. 17, 1894.

Photo provided by John Griffith.

In 1857, he was appointed US Marshal of Kansas by President Buchanan and remained in office until the outbreak of the Civil War. When war broke out He mustered into the Army in 1861, was appointed Lieutenant Colonel in the 30th Illinois Infantry and participated in the capture of Fort Donelson, Tennessee. He was promoted Colonel in May 1862 and to Brigadier General in November 1862. In April 1863, he fought in the Battle of Port Gibson, Mississippi and in May 1863, at the Battle of Raymond, Mississippi. Later in May 1863, he was placed in command of the District of Northeast Louisiana when guerillas were causing problems on the leased plantations there. He served as the Louisiana Union Militia commanding officer until the end of the war and was brevetted Major General of US Volunteers in 1865. After the war he split his time between Illinois and Louisiana where served as a County Sheriff.

In his early public live he served in the Illinois House of Representatives from 1842 to 1844. He also served as a a State Senator, 1846 to 1848.

Number 4. Report of Colonel Michael K. Lawler, Eighteenth Illinois Infantry, of skirmishes at Medon and near Toone's Station, August 31, 1862, and at Britton's Lane, near Denmark, Tenn., September 1, 1862.

HEADQUARTERS COMMANDER OF THE POST, Jackson, Tenn., September 6, 1862.

SIR: I have the honor to report the following concerning the recent engagements along the line of the Mississippi Central Railroad and in the vicinity of Medon Station:

Immediately after the repulse of the enemy at Bolivar large bodies of his cavalry attacked the different detachments stationed along the line of the Mississippi Central Railroad between Medon and Toone's Stations. The detachments being small, consisting at most of single companies, after sharp skirmishing retired to Medon Station, at which point, at and near the railroad depot, a barricade was constructed of cotton bales, under the direction of Adjutant Frohock, of the Forty-fifth Illinois Infantry. At 3 p.m. August 31, the enemy attacked the defenses at Medon in force, estimated to be 1,500 strong, but were gallantly held at bay by about 150 men of the Forty-fifth Illinois.

Being informed of the attack on Medon I immediately sent six companies of the Seventh Missouri Infantry, under the command of Major W. S. Oliver, by railroad, with instructions to re-enforce our men at that place. On the arrival of the train at Medon the Seventh immediately formed line and charged the enemy, driving him from the town and inflicting considerable loss upon him, also taking a number of prisoners. As soon as I was informed of the demonstration on Bolivar I ordered the force stationed at Estanaula, and under the command of Colonel E. S. Dennis, of the Thirtieth Illinois, to return to this post. The command of Colonel Dennis consisted of the Thirtieth Illinois, commanded by Major Warren Shedd; the Twentieth Illinois, commanded by Captain Frisbie; a section of two pieces of Gumbart's artillery and two companies of cavalry, commanded by Captain Foster.

Colonel Dennis struck tents on the morning of August 31, destroying such stores and baggage as he was unable to carry, and marched to within 12 miles of this post, where he was met by an order from me, directing him to march for Medon Station, to intercept the enemy near that point. Colonel Dennis countermarched his command, arriving in the vicinity of Denmark that night. About 10 o'clock on the morning of September 1 his advance guard reported the enemy in strong force at Britton's Lane, near the junction of the Denmark and Medon roads.

The enemy's force consisted of seven regiments of cavalry, viz: Barteau's, Adams', Slemons', Jackson's, Forrest's, Wheeler's, and Pinson's, amounting in the aggregate to 5,000 men, under the command of Brigadier-General Armstrong. The aggregate of Colonel Dennis' force was about 800. Discovering that he was outnumbered, Colonel Dennis immediately selected the best position the ground would admit of and formed in line of battle. His position was in a large grove, surrounded by farms, all the fields being in corn, the woods and some broken ground being in the rear and corn fields in front, the line being on a ridge.

The greatly superior force of the enemy enabled him to entirely surround the command of Colonel Dennis, and early in the engagement to capture the transportation train, taking with it the teamsters and sick as prisoners. The enemy also captured the two pieces of artillery, but were unable to get possession of the caissons and ammunition. During the engagement the artillery and train were recaptured by Colonel Dennis, the enemy having destroyed four of the wagons by fire. The enemy made many determined charges. Dividing their force and dismounting a part they attacked both as infantry and cavalry, the cavalry charging so close as to fall from their horses almost within the ranks of our men.

The battle was of four hours' duration, at the end of which time the enemy left Colonel Dennis in possession of the field, leaving 179 of his dead on the field and also a large number of wounded. The total loss of the enemy in killed and wounded is over 400. The loss of Colonel Dennis in killed was 5 - buried on the field immediately after the action. His wounded numbered about 55, who were brought to the general hospital at this post the day after the battle.

Great praise should be given to the admirable generalship and ability displayed by Colonel Dennis, and in fact every officer acted with the greatest bravery. Where all did so nobly it would perhaps be invidious to particularize. Great credit is due Captain Frisbie, commanding the Twentieth Illinois, and to Major Shedd, commanding the Thirtieth Illinois; also to Adjutant Peyton, of the Thirtieth, who, severely wounded, refused to leave the field. Major Shedd was also wounded. Great praise is due Captain Foster, commanding the cavalry, he rendering Colonel Dennis imtant aid on every part of the field. The men acted with the most veteran courage. Surgeon Goodbrake, of the Twentieth Illinois, was untiring in attention to the wounded, and for skill is deserving of great praise. Accompanying this report I send a list or the wounded, as furnished by him.

I have the honor to be, respectfully,
M. K. LAWLER,
Colonel, Commanding Post.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Daniel Webster McLaughlin.


Daniel Webster McLaughlin.

Daniel W. McLaughlin, was born to Henry and Nancy Tunnell McLaughlin. He was born May 1 1847 near Murrayville, Morgan Co, Illinois. He married Mary J Gosnell Oct 17, 1867 at Greenefield, Greene, IL. They had eleven children. At the age of 18, he enlisted on May 7, 1864 as a private in the 145th IL Inf., at Jacksonville, ILL., for 100 days, he was mustered in on 9 Jun 1864 at Camp Butler, IL, mustered out 23 Sept. 1864 at Camp Butler, IL by Lt Montgomery. Although he is recorded as being in company C., he was not found on that roster. He would die on May 15, 1915 at Rose Hill, Butler, KS.

Authors note. Those of you who wish to know more about this family can do so by going to the site ( Find a Grave.)

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Major General Charles I. Martin.


Charles I. Martin.

Birth: Jan. 25, 1871
Death: May 8, 1953

Photo provided By Erik Skytte

United States Army Major General. Born in Ogle County, Illinois, he enlisted in the Kansas National Guard as a Private in 1890. He was eventually commissioned an officer with the 20th Kansas Volunteers during the outbreak of hostilities with Spain. He participated in the Philippines Pacification Campaign and was discharged a Major in October, 1899.

In 1901, he was elected as clerk of Bourbon County District Court, was admitted to the bar and practiced law. In 1909, rejoined the Kansas National Guard as a Colonel and was selected to be Adjutant General of Kansas. During World War I, he was appointed Brigadier General assigned to the 70th Brigade of the 35th Division element where he remained until September, 1918. After the war, he was promoted Major General commander of the 35th Division, a post he held until retiring on January 31, 1935.

Burial: Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, Leavenworth County, Kansas.

Authors Note. I would like to thank ( John Griffith) who allow me to repost his information here which was originally posted at ( Find a Grave.)

Sunday, April 18, 2010

James Henry Lane.


James Henry Lane.

Birth: Jun. 22, 1814, Lawrenceburg, Indiana.
Death: Jul. 11, 1866.

Photo provided by James Stanza.

American soldier and politician. Born in Lawrenceburg Indiana to Amos Lane, Lawyer and Democratic representative to Congress. James received a common school education and studied law in his fathers office and in 1840 was admitted to the bar. In the Mexican War he served as a Colonel in the 5th Indiana Regiment, which he raised. Lane was elected Lieutenant Governor of Indiana from 1849 to 1853, and from 1853 to 1855 was elected a Democratic member of Congress from Indiana. He emigrated to Kansas in 1855 and became 2nd in command of forces at Lawrence during the "Wakarusa War".

In 1856 was elected to the U.S. Senate under the Topeka Constitution, the validity of which Congress refused to recognize. He was indicted for treason and left Kansas for a while returning in August 1856. After Kansas was admitted to the Union in 1861 Lane was elected Senator and left for Washington. Arriving in the capital, Lane immediately raised a company to guard President Lincoln. After the war sided with President Andrew Johnson against the Radical Republicans making powerful enemies and was soon accused of being involved in fraudulent Indian contracts. Severely depressed while defending himself and in fragile mental health, he shot himself to death in 1866.

Authors Note. I would like to thank ( justin ) who allow me to repost his information here which was originally posted at ( Find a Grave.)

Friday, April 16, 2010

Kansas Grand Army of the Republic, of 1881.

These Kansas men were at the reunion of the Grand Army of the Republic, of 1881.
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1. William C. Bryant, private, 7th., Kansas cavalry Co. H., enlisted Dec. 10, 1861, mustered in same day, home Stanton,, was promoted Saddler, would reenlist as a Veteran on Jan.1, 1864. Mustered out with regiment September 29, 1865.

2. Joseph S. Hill, private, 7th., Kansas cavalry, Co. A., enlisted on Sept. 6, 1862, mustered in same day, home Plymouth, Mustered. out on det. roll, St. Louis, Mo. Nov. 30, 1864.

Joseph S. Hill, was born May 21, 1835, died on Aug. 3, 1895. Burial Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Winfield, Cowley County, Kansas.

3. H. W. Stubblefield, Captain, Kansas 16th. Cavalry, Co. H, enlisted on April 2, 1864, home Elizabetht'n. Mustered out with regement Dec. 6, 1865.

4. James H. Finch, private, Kansas 13th., infantry, Co. D., enlisted on Aug. 21, 1862, mustered in on Sept. 19, 1862. Home Atchison. Promoted Sergeant on Sept. 19, 1862, then promoted to First Sergeant on March 12, 1863. Mustered out with regiment on June 26, 1865.

James H. Finch, was born in 1833, died on May 10, 1885.

He lived for a time in Illinois, then in Kansas, where Mr. Finch enlisted in 1862 in Atchison in Company D, 13th Regiment Kansas Volunteers. He was first sergeant of the company, served in the Army of the Frontier under Gen. Blunt, was in several battles, but never wounded. He received a lieutenant's commission, but owing to the close of the war did not muster on it; was discharged in Little Rock, Ark., June 26, 1865. He returned for a time to Atchison, finally settling in Winfield, Kan., where Mr. Finch was deputy sheriff of the county and U. S. marshal, which office he held at the time of his death. He was also senior vice commander of his post in Winfield and was buried with military honors. He died May 10, 1885. More can be read about him and his wife at the site of ( Find a Grave. )

5. John W. Sparks, private Kansas 2nd., cavalry Co. D, enlisted on Dec. 10, 1861, mustered in same day home Marysville. Prisoner of war, capt'd at Muzzard Prairie, Ark., May 22, 1864; no evidence of must. out on file.
John W. Sparks was born on Jun. 11, 1838, Sangamon County, Illinois. Died on Jul. 13, 1900, Ringwood, Major County, Oklahoma.

John Wesley Sparks enlisted as a Private in the Union Army on 10 December 1861. He was twenty-three years old at the time of his enlistment. He listed his residence as Marysville, Kansas. John Wesley Sparks served three years in the Union Army during the Civil War. He entered the Union Army at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. John Wesley Sparks served as a Private in Company D, 2nd Regiment of the Kansas Cavalry. His commander was John A. Lee. The 2nd Kansas Volunteer Regiment of Union Cavalry was organized at Kansas City as the 12th Kansas Infantry. At Fort Leavenworth, Kansas their designation was changed to the 9th Kansas Infantry on February 4, 1862, and later to the 2nd Cavalry on March 5, 1862. More information and photo can be found at the site of ( Find a Grave.)

6. J. C. Clarey, Reg. 12, Co. K, Private.
Couldn’t be found on the roster name must had been spell wrong.

7. Thomas M. Williams, private, Kansas 2nd., cavalry, Co. I, enlisted on Aug. 29, 1863, mustered in on Aug. 13, 1863, home Blooming Grove. Assigned to new Co. C, March 18, 1865. Mustered out June 22, 1865, Fort Gibson, C. N.

8. Enoch Henson , private, Kansas 5th., cavalry, Co. D. enlisted on Aug. 23, 1861, mustered in on Feb. 11, 1862, home Fort Scott. Mustered out Sept. 5, 1864, Leavenworth, Kan.
Enoch Henson was born Mar. 20, 1844, Lawrence County, Missouri. Died on Sept. 15, 1900. Burial Dexter Cemetery, Dexter, Cowley County, Kansas.

9. Wm. Jones, Reg. 15, Co. K, Private.
There is no rosters for the regiment.

10. James Kinsey or Kenzey, private Kansas 5th., cavalry Co. I., enlisted on Nov. 14, 1861, mustered in on Feb. 7, 1862. Disc. for dis. December 8, 1862, Helena, Ark.

11. T. W. Tharp, Reg. 2, Co. F, Private.
Couldn’t be found on the rosters.

12. Amos Walton, private, Kansas 9th., cavalry Co. B., enlisted on Oct. 12, 1861, mustered in same day. Promoted Quartermaster Sergeant June 13, 1862. Mustered out Nov. 19, 1864, Leavenworth Kan.

Amos Walton, born 1838, died in 1898, Burial Riverview Cemetery, Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas.

13. Nathan W. Dressie, private, Kansas 8th, infantry Co. C, enlisted on Jan. 26, 1861, mustered in same day, home Hometown. Re-enlisted Veteran, Feb. 27, 1864. Disc. Jan. 20, 1865, Leavenworth, Kan., on account of wounds received in action July 23, 1864.

14. John N. (W?). Powell, private, Kansas, 12th., infantry, Co. D,, enlisted on Aug. 30, 1862, mustered in on Sept. 25, 1862, home Shermanville. Dis. for dis. May 18, '63, Leav'th.

15. Joseph Powell, Reg. 6, Co. H, Private.
Couldn’t not be found on the rosters.

16. Walter Scott Williamson, private, Kansas 9th., cavalry Co. C, enlisted on Sept. 8, 1861, mustered in on June 30, 1863, home Ottumwa. was promoted to Corporal then Reduced to ranks. Mustered out Nov. 21, 1864, Leavenworth, Kan.
Walter Scott Williamson, was born Mar. 16, 1833, Michigan, died Jun. 9, 1905. Wife was Frances M. Williamson married 1866. Burial Dexter Cemetery, Dexter, Cowley County, Kansas.

17. Dempsey Elliott, private, Kansas 9th., cavalry Co. C.
Couldn’t be found on any rosters.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Col Lewis R Jewell.


Col Lewis R Jewell.

Birth: Aug. 16, 1822, Massachusetts.
Death: Nov. 30, 1862, Arkansas.

Photo provided by T. J. Cochran.


He fought in the American Civil War, lieutenant-colonel of the Sixth Kansas Cavalry Regiment stationed at Ft. Scott, Kansas. Orders to the Colonel to burn the city of Ft. Scott. The colonel replyed, "Only when General Price comes to Ft. Scott will I obey," Price never came. At Cane Hill the Colonel's horse was shot and he was wounded and died.

Part of a report by Brigadier General James G. Blunt, U. S. Army, commanding division, with congratulatory orders.

CANE HILL, ARK., November 29, 1862.

The casualties of the army I am unable to state with accuracy at this time, as we fought over 12 miles of ground. One of the rebel officers, under the flag of truce, stated to me that they had lost 60 in killed, among them a lieutenant-colonel. My loss is comparatively small. Among the wounded are Lieutenant-Colonel [L. R.] Jewell and Lieutenant [J. A.] Johnson, of the Sixth Kansas. Both of them, I fear, mortally. The enemy are badly whipped, and will probably not venture north of the Boston Mountains again this winter. If this part of the State is held, as it is their reliance for subsistence, having eaten out all in the valley of the Arkansas, they must soon retreat into Texas. I have sent for my teams to come up, and shall occupy a position at or near Cane Hill. The rebels had about ten days' rations of bread, cooked, and in little sacks behind their saddles, from which it evident they intended making a desperate effort to force their way north.
JAS. G. BLUNT,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Part of a report by JAS. G. BLUNT, to HDQRS. First DIVISION, ARMY OF THE FRONTIER, Cane Hill, Ark., December 3, 1862.

The casualties in my command were 4 killed and 36 wounded; 4 of them mortally, since dead. Among the latter was Lieutenant-Colonel Jewell, of the Sixth Kansas. He was a brave and gallant officer, whose noble example is worthy of emulation. Lieutenant J. A. Johnson, of the same regiment, a daring and excellent young officer, received a desperate would from a musket-ball, which passed entirely through his body; yet it is hoped he will recover. The enemy's loss is 75 killed; wounded not known, as they took a large portion of them away.
I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. G. BLUNT,

Wednesday, April 14, 2010


Robert Byington Mitchell.

Birth: Apr. 4, 1823, Mansfield, Richland County, Ohio.
Death: Jan. 26, 1882, Washington, District of Columbia, District Of Columbia.

Photo provided by John Griffith.

Civil War Union Brigadier General. At the start of the Civil War, he was treasurer of the Kansas Territory when appointed Colonel of the 2nd Kansas Volunteer Infantry. He was wounded at the Battle of Wilson's Creek and after recovering was commissioned Brigadier General by President Abraham Lincoln in April, 1862. He commanded the 9th Division, III Corps at Perryville, Kentucky and later served in Washington D.C. for court martial duty. For the remainder of the war he commanded the District of Nebraska, then the District of North Kansas and finally the District of Kansas. After the war, he served as Governor of New Mexico Territory, 1866 to 1869.


Authors Note. I would like to thank ( John Griffith ) who allow me to repost his information here which was originally posted at ( Find a Grave.)

Colonel George Washington Deitzler.


George Washington Deitzler.

Birth: Nov. 30, 1826.
Death: Apr. 11, 1884.

Photo provided by Ethan F. Bishop.

Civil War Union Major General. From 1857 to 1859, he was a member of the Kansas State House of Representatives and served as Kansas State Indian Agent in 1860. At the beginning of the Civil War, he raised the 1st Kansas Infantry US Volunteers and was appointed Colonel. He was wounded leading the regiment at the Battle of Wilson's Creek Missouri, in August 1861 and was placed in command of the Kansas Third Brigade in early 1862.

That same year, President Abraham Lincoln promoted him Brigadier General in command of the Army of Tennessee. He led his corps in engagements at the battles of Corinth and Vicksburg Mississippi, until he left the field in August 1863, due illness related to his earlier wounds. He returned to Kansas and was commissioned Major General in command of the entire Kansas State Militia. On August 23, 1864, he was successful in defeating the Confederates at the Battle of Westport, the last full scale battle of the Civil War in the West. After the war, he engaged in business persuits in the West until his death from a horse and carriage accident at Tucson, Arizona.

Authors Note. I would like to thank ( John Griffith ) who allow me to repost his information here which was originally posted at ( Find a Grave.)

Monday, April 12, 2010

George W. Hays & Phebe Hart Hays





George W. Hays.

Birth: Mar. 18, 1825, Owen County, Indiana.
Death: Jul. 4, 1901, Topeka, Shawnee County, Kansas.

Photos provided By: wilene & Bev.

George W. HAYS enlisted August 11, 1861, as a Private in the 1st Northeast MO Volunteer Regiment; consolidated with the 2nd NE MO to form the 21st MO Infantry Regiment, December 31, 1861. George was mustered into Company H as a Corporal, February 1, 1862, for 3 years. On their way to Pittsburgh Landing in Tennessee in mid-March, George contracted the measles and a severe cold. He was left behind at the hospital in Mound City, IL, and was discharged April 2, 1862. Complications from his illness caused him to lose his hearing in both ears.

Parents:
Nancy Ann Asher Hays (1793 - 1882)

Children:
Charles Francis Hays (1850 - 1928)
Nancy Isabelle Hays Ewing (1858 - 1903)
Frances Willa Hays Wiltrout (1860 - 1942)
Eugene Ellsworth Hays (1865 - 1944)
Fred Hart Hays (1874 - 1962)


Phebe Hart Hays.

Birth: Mar. 20, 1827, Coshocton County, Ohio.
Death: Jun. 7, 1907, Otis, Rush County, Kansas.

Photo provided by: wilene

Phebe was a daughter of Reuben Hart (1792-1857) and Sarah Chapman or Chatten (1798-1881). She married George W. Hays in Adams Co., IL, May 18, 1849, at Big Neck in Keene Twp. His first wife, Sarah "Sallie" Mugg, died Dec. 31, 1848.

George and Phebe had eight children and possibly three more that died young.

Daughter Eliza Jane, born May 4, 1856, and often referred to as Lizzie, married Marshall A. Hartley in Loup City, Sherman Co., NE, Sept. 20, 1874. She was 18; he was 36. By 1900 they were living in Buchanan Co., MO, then spent the next several years in the Barton Co. and Rush Co., KS, area before moving on to California where Marshall died in 1913. They had two daughters, Grace and Edna Phebe. Lizzie died in Los Angeles Co., CA, Feb. 20, 1943.

Son George Fremont Hays was born March 1, 1863, in Monmouth, Warren Co., IL, and lived in Barton Co., KS, with his parents through 1885, but it's not known what happened to him thereafter. It is said he married and had three children: Phebe, Geraldine, and Stanley.

Daughter Cora Eva, born Aug. 18, 1869, married James E. Davidson and lived in nearby Pawnee Co., KS, through 1910 but their whereabouts thereafter has not been discovered. They had no children. It is said that Cora died about 1956 in Long Beach, Los Angeles Co., CA.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Colonel DANIEL GRASS


Colonel Daniel Grass.

Enrolled in Company H, 61st Regiment of Illinois Volunteers on the 10th day of December 1861 as a 1st Lieutenant and was honorably discharged at Benton Barracks, Missouri on the 15th day of June 1865. He was captured near Murfreesboro, Tennessee December 15, 1864. He was paroled in an exchange with a Confederate Colonel Prisoner of War and released April 20, 1865 at Benton Barracks, Missouri.

Colonel Grass was born 26 Sept 1824 in Rockport, Spencer Co., Indiana. His parents were Alfred Hynes Grass and Susannah Snyder Grass. He had 17 brothers and sisters. The family lived in St. Francisville, Illinois when he enlisted. Daniel marred Adeline H. Shepherd, she died in St. Francisville. After the death of his father in 1856, and practicing law for a while he went to Montgomery Co., Kansas in 1870. In 1876 he was elected to the State Senate from his district and served one term. He returned to Coffeyville, KS where he resided until his death 21st Dec. 1894.

Enlistment & promotion records.

DANIEL GRASS, Rank Captain Company H., Unit 61 ILL., U. S. Infantry, Age 38, Joined When DEC 10, 1861, Joined Where CARROLLTON, ILL., Muster In JUN 14, 1863 Muster In Where HAYNES BLUFF, MS., PROMOTED MAJOR JUL 18, 1863 TRANS TO FIELD & STAFF (HQ).

DANIEL GRASS, Rank Major, Company HQ., Unit 61 ILL U. S. Infantry, Residence LAWRENCEVILLE, LAWRENCE CO, ILL., Age 38., Joined When DEC 10, 1863, Joined Where CARROLLTON, ILL., Joined By Whom HIMSELF Period 3 YRS., Muster In JUL 17, 1863, Muster In Where SNYDERS BLUFF, AR..

DANIEL GRASS, Rank Colonel, Company HQ., Unit 61 ILL, U. S. Infantry, Residence CARROLLTON, GREENE CO, ILL, HONORABLY DISCHARGED (AS LT COLONEL) MAY 15, 1865.

DANIEL GRASS, Rank Lieutenant Colonel, Company HQ., Unit 61 ILL., U. S. Infantry, Residence LAWRENCEVILLE, LAWRENCE CO, ILL., Age 40., Joined When OCT 4, 1864, Joined Where ST LOUIS, MO., Period 3 YRS, Muster In OCT 4, 1864, Muster In Where ST LOUIS, MO.

Washington, D. C., March 1, 1865.
Colonel C. W. HILL, Commanding Johnson's Island, Sandusky, Ohio:

COLONEL: By instructions received through the commissioner for exchange you will forward for exchange with next party of prisoners Brigadier General Edmund W. Rucker and the lieutenant-colonel who has been longest in continement, the former to be exchanged for a general officer of the same rank and the latter to be exchanged for Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Grass, Sixty-first Illinois Volunteers, who was paroled at Meridian, Miss., by General Forrest on condition of his effecting the exchange of Colonel E. W. Rucker, wounded and captured at Nashville. Put the names on a roll by themselves and give the above details.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. HOFFMAN.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Nashville, Tenn., March 2, 1865.

Colonel J. G. PARKHURST,

Provost-Marshal-General, Department of the Cumberland:

SIR: Major-General Thomas directs that you make arrangements for the exchange of Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Grass, Sixty-first Regiment Illinois Infantry. He was captured by Forrest's command the 15th of last December and paroled by General Forrest for the purpose of procuring a special exchange for Colonel E. W. Rucker, of Forrest's command. Rucker was captured as a brigadier-general and has claimed to be such ever since his capture. Lieutenant-Colonel Grass can be exchanged with other officers sufficient to make up the difference in rank, or he may be exchanged for any Confederate officer of equal rank with himself as you can arrange.

Respectfully, yours, WM. D. WHIPPLE.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Colonel Benjamin Dornblaser.


Colonel Benjamin Dornblaser.

Birth: Oct. 12, 1828, Northampton County, Pennsylvania.
Death: Apr. 9, 1905, Fredonia, Wilson County, Kansas.
His wife Sarah M. Foster Dornblaser, died on Jul. 23, 1916.
Photo by Thomas Fisher

OBITUARY.

Benjamin Dornblaser, whose death was noted in yesterday’s edition, was born in Northampton county, Pa., Oct. 12, 1828. He died in Fredonia, April 9, 1905, aged 76 years, 5 months and 27 days.

In early life he went to Illinois, where in Stephenson county, Dec. 30, 1852, he was married to Miss Sarah M. Foster, with whom he has lived happily for over fifty years. Six children have brought light and joy to the home, all but one of whom are living and were with him at his death. They are John B., of Chicago, Geo. E., of Sapulpa, I. T., Mrs. J. W. Moore, of Assumption, Ill., and Mrs. G. G. Kennedy and Miss Margaret, of Fredonia. A little daughter died April 11, twenty three years ago. Mr. Dornblaser was the last of a family of six children.

After his marriage he lived for a short time at Rock Run, Ill., afterward at Dakota, Ill., from which place he enlisted in the civil war. After the war he lived for a short time in Freeport, Ill. Soon after the war he went to Joliet, where he was warden of the penitentiary. He then returned to Freeport and later moved to southern Illinois, where he resided until he came to Kansas in 1875. On coming to Kansas he settled in Fredonia and for the past twenty-three years has lived in the house in which he died. He was county surveyor at the time of his death and had been for a number of years. He enlisted in the fall of 1861 in the 46th Illinois Infantry. He was appointed adjutant and before his regiment went to the front was made major. Before the close of the war he was a brevet brigadier general and held the rank when he was honorably discharged from the service. He was an active and efficient member of Phil Harvey Post of this city. He was also identified with the Masonic Fraternity being not only a member of the Blue lodge but also of Abd el Kader Commandery, No. 27.

Mr. Dornblaser was a man highly respected by all the people who knew him, and his passing away will be a great loss to this community with which he has been so long identified.

The funeral services were held at the home this afternoon at 2 o’clock conducted by Rev. H. W. Chaffee. The G. A. R. Post and the Commandery were both in attendance, the Post furnishing the pall bearers and the Commandery being in charge of the burial services at the cemetery.

Part of a report of Colonel James C. Veatch, Twenty-fifth Indiana Infantry.

Major Dornblaser was severely wounded, a large number of his company officers disabled, and his color guard shot down. Colonel Davis seized his colors and bore them from the field, presenting a most noted mark for the enemy, who sent after him a terrific fire as he retired. I directed him to fall back and rally his men in the rear of the fresh troops that were then advancing.

Colonel Davis, Lieutenant-Colonel Jones, and Major Dornblaser, of the Forty-sixth Illinois, each displayed coolness and courage in resisting the heavy columns thrown against them. Major Dornblaser was wounded and compelled to leave the field early on the first day. Colonel Davis was severely wounded on the second day while gallantly fighting in Colonel Marsh's brigade and was carried from the field. Lieutenant-Colonel Jones took command, an conducted his regiment with skill and courage till the battle closed.

Major Dornblaser, seriously wounded in the arm in the early part of the action, remained with me until the men were brought off from the field and reformed,and did not leave until after a peremptory order from myself to go to his quarters.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Samuel Crawford



Samuel Crawford.

Birth: Apr. 10, 1835.
Death: Oct. 21, 1913

Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General, 3rd Kansas Governor. Entered the Civil War as a Captain in the 2nd Kansas Volunteer Infantry, which in time was converted to cavalry, and was redesignated as the 2nd Kansas Cavarly. He was then commissioned Colonel and commander of the 83rd United States Colored Troops. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "meritorious services". Two months before that, he had been elected as Governor of Kansas, an office he served in from January 1865 to November 1868.

Isabel Chase Crawford .

Birth: 1848, Kansas.
Death: 1920, Kansas.

Romance was introduced into state government with the marriage of eighteen-year-old Isabel Chase to Samuel J. Crawford just a few days after his second election as governor. Her family was prominent in Topeka, her father being one of the city’s founders. It was said that the Chase family home was the first house in Topeka to have wooden floors. While serving as first lady, Isabel Crawford gave birth to a daughter who would later become the wife of one of Kanasa most successful men, Arthur Capper.

Patrick Coyne


Patrick Coyne.

Birth: 1834, Galway County, Ireland.
Death: June 26, 1907.

Photo provided by Jimmy Coyne his great-grandson.

When the Civil War broke out he enlisted in 1st Kansas Volunteer Infantry Co. C. at Fort Leavenworth as a private, later earning the rank of corporal, being the 6th corporal for that company, under the command of Capt. Peter McFarland. At the battle of Wilson`s Creek, Missouri, he took a ball in the right thigh during the charge up Bloody Hill, he was discharged at Clinton, Tennessee in June of 1862.

After the war he moved to St. Louis where he married. In 1871 he relocated to Florence, KS, acquiring 160 acres under the Homestead Act. There he built up a home and farmed, raising a family of 5 children.

In July 1907, he was walking home from his farm down the railroad tracks as was his usual custom. A set of two tracks...he jumped out of the way of one oncoming train, not hearing or seeing the other one coming the opposite direction and was struck and killed instantly. He is buried in Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery west of Florence.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Asbury Clark.


Asbury Clark.

Birth: Sept. 23, 1831, Ohio.
Death: Apr. 15, 1894, Nickerson, Reno County Kansas.

Father: William McKendree Clark (1805-1885)
Mother: Lydia Carmichael (1808-1884)

Photo by Rebecca Head

He was born in what was called Park County, Ohio. On February 2, 1953 he married Elizabeth Carolina Harshbarger. After her death he married Della M. Edwards on May 2, 1892. During the Civil War he served with Co F 86 IL Inf.

His Children are: Wilbur Hayden, Joel McKendry, Lydia Louella "Lou" Kirkhuff, Emory Judson, William Sherman, Jennie Glissen, May Kirkhuff, Arthur Wilson, Charles Morton, Amon Simpson and his twin Olin Harshbarger (who died as small child), Freddie (died as infant), John Wesley, and Neil Warren.

Service enlistment record.

Asbury Clark, Rank Private, Company F Unit 86th., Illinois U. S Infantry, Residence MAQUON, KNOX CO, ILL. Age 30, Height 6', Hair BROWN, Eyes BLUE, Complexion FAIR, Marital Status MARRIED, Occupation FARMER, Nativity PARK CO, IN ., Joined When AUG 2, 1862, Joined Where MAQUON, ILL., Period 3 Years, Muster In AUG 27, 1862, Muster In Where PEORIA, ILL., Muster Out JUN 6, 1865, Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC ., Remarks PROMOTED CORPORAL JUL 1, 1864.

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Dexter Elisha Clapp



Dexter Elisha Clapp.

Birth: Jun. 7, 1830.
Death: Jun. 20, 1882.

Dexter E. Clapp was born in Genesee county, New York, June 7, 1830. He was descended from Captain Roger Clapp, who came over with a colony from Dorchester, England, and established the town of Dorchester, Massachusetts now a part of Boston. His father, Ralph Clapp, graduated in the first class of Amherst College, immigrated to New York in 1827, where he became a minister in the Congregational church and afterward in the Methodist Episcopal church, and for fifty two years has filled worthily his place in the pulpit in that State. He is still living, but has retired from active work. The mother of the subject of our memoir was Mary Dexter, of Amherst, Massachusetts, who died when he was but ten years old. She was a lady of culture, a devout Christian woman, worthily filling the place of a clergyman’s wife and a good mother.

Dexter E. Clapp was educated at Genesee College, New York, graduating in the class of 1854, receiving the degree of A. M. in course, and the same honorary degree from the University of New York. In acquiring an education he spent seven years, alternately teaching and pursuing his studies. On leaving college he entered the ministry of the East Genesee conference of the Methodist Episcopal church and occupied the pulpit until 1862, when he entered the army as captain of Co. C, 148th New York State Volunteers. Under detail from General B. F. Butler, he raised the 38th Regiment United Stated Colored Infantry, which he commanded during the war, except during most of the winter of 1864, when he was in command of the 1st Brigade of the 3rd Division of the 18th Army Corps.

He participated in the battles of various campaigns in and around Richmond, and was brevetted Brigadier General of volunteers for gallant conduct at the battles of New Market Heights and Ft. Gilmore on the 29th day of September 1864. After the close of the war he represented our Government several years as minister to the Argentine Confederation in South America. Resigning this position he returned home and finally came to Kansas, settling upon a tract of raw prairie land, now known as Hope Farm, six miles west of Yates Center. Subsequently he was appointed agent for the Crow Indians in the wilds of Montana, in which capacity he served his country honestly and faithfully for nearly two years. Returning to this county, he soon afterward entered politics and was in the fall of 1878 elected as Representative in the Legislature of this State, and was re-elected in 1880, he being a member of the house at the time of his death. By his colleagues in the Legislature he was recognized as a leader, always ready to debate, sparkling, full of quick retort, and although naturally mild, gentle and courteous, a perfect tiger when aroused by an unjust attack. There are few men in the State who are more highly esteemed or whose loss would be more generally felt.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Louis Carpenter.




Louis Carpenter.

Birth: Dec. 14, 1829.
Death: Aug. 21, 1863.

Louis Carpenter was a lawyer, and was a Deputy Clerk of Douglas County, Kansas by June 14, 1859.In late 1860 or early 1861, he became Probate Judge of Douglas County, the first case bearing his name as judge being recorded on February 26, 1861, and on September 29, 1862, he was chosen by the Union Party as their candidate for the office of Attorney General of Kansas. He was enumerated in the 1860 federal census of the Kansas Territory as age 29, born in the state of New York.

Louis married on October 10, 1862 at the home of his bride’s sister and brother-in-law Abigail (Barber) and Grosvenor C. Morse at Emporia, Kansas to Mary E. Barberwho was born ca. 1838 in Massachusetts according to census records. In 1870, his widow was enumerated at Topeka, Kansas; she married second on January 5, 1871 at Emporia, Kansas to John C. Rankin, and was enumerated in Osage County, Kansas in 1900 and 1910. She was a sister of Harriet A. Barber, who never married, and Abigail Barber, who married Grosvenor C. Morse.

Judge Carpenter was one of the 185-200 men and boys killed in the Lawrence Massacre on August 21, 1863. He was murdered in his home at 943 New Hampshire Street in Lawrence by members of Quantrill’s Raiders. A detailed account of Judge Carpenter's life and murder in Kansas, and a photograph of him, are posted at the Douglas County Law Library website.

The Lawrence Massacre, also known as Quantrill's Raid, was a rebel guerrilla attack during the U.S. Civil War by Quantrill's Raiders, led by William Clarke Quantrill, on the pro-Union town of Lawrence, Kansas. The attack on August 21, 1863, targeted Lawrence due to the town's long support of abolition and its reputation as a center for Redlegs and Jayhawkers, which were free-state militia and vigilante groups known for attacking and destroying farms and plantations in Missouri's pro-slavery western counties.

As the raiders were preparing to leave town after four hours of destruction and bloodshed, one of them appeared at Judge Carpenter’s door and asked him where he was from. Carpenter, who had earlier talked several groups of the raiders into leaving his family and home unmolested, answered “New York.” The intruder yelled that New Yorkers were the ones that they were after and began firing his pistol at him. Judge Carpenter ran through the house, down into the cellar, and then out into the yard, trying to avoid the gunfire. A second gunman joined the first and they continued to fire at Carpenter. He collapsed in his backyard after sustaining four4 severe gunshot wounds and, despite Mary falling down and covering him with her body, was killed with a point-blank shot to his head.

The raiders set the house on fire and then left. Abigail was able to put out the fire before it had time to do much damage.

About three hours after Quantrill and his men had left town, a crude wooden coffin was made by friends who had survived the devastation and Judge Carpenter was buried in his own yard. A week later, on August 28, 1863, his body was exhumed from his backyard grave and moved to another temporary burial site. Eventually he was interred in a plot in Oak Hill Cemetery, near to the final resting place of many other victims of Quantrill's Raid.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Private William H. Butler



Private William H. Butler.

Birth: Jun. 2, 1844, Lawrence County, Indiana.
Death: Mar. 15, 1926.
Married Harriet Saloma Hittle Butler, September 6, 1856 or 1866.

Harriet Saloma Hittle Butler,

Birth: 1844, Bond County, Illinois.
Death: Mar. 14, 1918

Private William H. Butler enlistment record.

William H. Butler, was a private in the 130th., Illinois Infantry Company F., was living in Bond County, Illinois, his age was 18, years, he was 5' 10 ½ tall, Hair was Dark, Eyes Hazel, Complexion Dark, he was single, was a farmer. He was born in Lawrence, County Illinois. Enlisted on Aug. 7, 1862, at Camp Butler Illinois. He mustered in on Oct. 25, 1862, Camp Butler Illinois for 3., years. He was later transferred to Company F. of the 77th, Illinois Infantry.

Burial: Graham Cemetery
Winfield, Cowley County, Kansas.
Plot: Block Lot 002011 Space 08.