Hall County, Nebraska, 1890 Biographies, Surnames D through F

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Transcribed by Kaylynn Loveland, audriana@ginetworks.com

                              NEGenWeb Project
                                Hall County

                        1890 Hall County Biographies

   "Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Adams, Clay, Hall and Hamilton
                                 Counties"
       Published 1890 by the Goodspeed Publishing Co., Chicago, Ill.
                     (Note: Includes Hall County Only)

                                D through F

DAVIS, Sumner, M.D.
    Sumner Davis, M.D., is one of the leading physicians and surgeons of
Hall County, Neb., and is a credit to the profession which he represents.
He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, August 27, 1857, the son of A. Judson and
Adaline (Merrill) Davis, natives of Massachusetts and Ohio, and aged
fifty-seven and fifty-three years, respectively. The father was for many
years a well-known merchant of Cincinnati, and still makes that city his
home. Dr. Davis was a student in the public and high schools of his native
city, and in 1879 began the study of medicine in the office of Prof. S.R.
Beckwith, with whom he remained until 1880, when he entered the Chicago
Homeopathic College, and was graduated therefrom as an M.D. February 28,
1883, and the following April was appointed one of the resident surgeons of
the Cook County Hospital, of Chicago, which position he continued to hold
until October 1, 1884. Then he received an appointment as demonstrator of
anatomy in his alma mater for the term of 1884-85, being at the same time
associated in general practice with Dr. E.H. Pratt, professor of surgery in
the same college. Owing to failing health he gave up a lucrative practice
in this city (Chicago), and went to Southwestern Kansas, where he remained
until July, 1888, when, having recovered his wonted health, he came to
Grand Island, and here has established a practice second to none in this
portion of the State. He is at once safe and skillful, and has shown from
his earliest days of practice that he realizes the grave responsibilities
resting on a physician, and the reception which he has received in his new
home shows that a very generous share of public favor is his. While he is a
graduate of a homeopathic institution, he is liberal in his views and
independent in his practice, and in every instance uses those remedies he
thinks best suited to the case. He makes a specialty of surgery and the
diseases of women, and in those cases handled shows a thorough knowledge of
the "healing art." Dr. G.W. Weeter is associated with him in business, the
firm name being Davis & Weeter, and they constitute one of the strongest
medical firms in the State. Their reception, operating and consultation
rooms, consisting of a suite of seven rooms in the Independent building,
are well equipped with everything needful for the comfort of patrons, who
always receive every kindness and attention. Dr. Davis was married in
November, 1886, to Miss Minnie B. Gray, who was born near Athens, in Clark
County, Mo., and by her he has one child, Merrill Gray (born February 7,
1888). He is a republican in his political views, and socially is a member
of the Masonic Fraternity, Ashlar Lodge No. 33, the A.O.U.W. and the Royal
Arcanum.

DEAN, George P.
    George P. Dean, chief of police at Grand Island, Neb., was born in
Steubenville, Steuben County, N.Y., November 22, 1846, being a son of
William C. and Mary (Ferguson) Dean, natives of new jersey, the former a
carpenter and builder by occupation. They moved to Michigan prior to the
late Civil War and settled in Shiawassee County, from which place George P.
Dean enlisted as a private in Company H, Tenth Michigan Cavalry, in 1863,
and served throughout the remainder of the war, participating in a number
of skirmishes, and a few battles. After the cessation of hostilities he
served in the regular army three years, being on duty throughout the South,
and was discharged as sergeant of Company H, Eighteenth United States
Infantry. In 1869 he returned home and in 1872 located in Nebraska, being
engaged in farming until 1884, since which time he has successfully
conducted a livery stable at Grand Island. He is now serving his second
term as a member of the city board of supervisors, and while a resident of
Mayfield Township was for some time justice of the peace. He is a
stockholder in the Grand Island Improvement Company, the Canning Company of
that city, and is a director and stockholder of the A.O.U.W. Building, he
being a member of that order. He is a member of the G.A.R., being at
present junior vice-commander, and has represented his post in the county
and State encampments. He was married in Michigan to Miss Emily Ferster, a
native of that state, and a daughter of John and Maria (Haggerty) Ferster,
by whom he has a son and a daughter: Guy Morris (who is associated with his
father in the livery business) and Edna May. Mr. Dean is a Mason and has
attained to the Commandery. He is also a member of the Select Knights, and
at present is commander of Grand Island Legion No.9.

DENMAN, Hon. Z. H.
    Hon Z. H. Denman (deceased). Nature seems to have intended Mr. Denman
for a long and more than ordinarily useful existence, but while just in the
meridian of life his career was closed forever. He was born in Licking
County, Ohio, March 26, 1834, and there he attended the district schools
during the winter months, and assisted his father on the home farm during
the summer until he was nineteen years of age, at which time he bade adieu
to his friends and went to Martinsburg College, in which institution he
remained until he graduated. Upon leaving college he spent some time in
traveling and school teaching, and upon attaining his twenty-fourth year
was united in marriage to Miss Harriet Robinson, of Newark, Ohio. He then
settled down to farming in his native county, and while there held the
office of county surveyor several terms but resigned this position to move
with his family to McLean County, Ill., in 1864, being there engaged in
tilling the soil until August, 1871, when he came to Hall County, Neb.
Possessing great energy and much ability he was not long in securing a
comfortable home for his family to his adopted county, and soon became the
owner of a homestead thirteen miles southwest of Grand Island, on which he
at once set energetically to work to farming and raising stock. Owing to
his enterprise, integrity and honesty of purpose he gradually increased his
acreage, and in time became the owner of several hundred acres and a large
amount of fine stock. He was well known for his many sterling
characteristics, and ever after locating here he had the interests of the
county at heart, and was one of the first citizens to patronize any
enterprise calculated to build up the county and benefit his fellow man.
His principles were always pure and true, his judgment sound, and his
advice was earnestly sought by old and young in the community in which he
resided. He was an active politician, and for many years held the position
of county supervisor from Alda Precinct, and was re-nominated at the
election in 1889 to the same office. In 1882 the people of the county
showed their appreciation of his intellect by choosing him to represent
them in the State Legislature, and the duties of this position he filled
with honor to himself and his constituents. He was president of the Hall
County Agricultural Society in 1889, and his administration of the affairs
of this society was so satisfactory that he was voted the most popular man
in the county by the citizens, and was presented with a handsome gold
headed cane as a token of their esteem. He was re-elected to the same
office by the society at their last meeting and was looking forward with
great pleasure to the time when the State Fair would be held on the Hall
County fairgrounds. His death, which occurred very suddenly at the age of
fifty-five years, seven months and fourteen days, was lamented by all who
knew him, for he was one of the county's best citizens and a generous and
loving husband and father. He was beloved and respected for his sterling
integrity, sound judgment, broad intelligence, liberality and progressive
ideas, and he may justly be said to have been a man among men. He was an
honored member of the Masonic Fraternity and was buried with the honors of
that order. In 1858, while a resident of Ohio, he was married, his wife
being a daughter of Samuel and Harriet (Gray) Robinson, the former a native
of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Ohio. Mrs. Denman was born, reared and
educated in Licking County, and her union with Mr. Denman resulted in the
birth of seven children: W. C. (whose sketch follows), James S., Charles W.
(married and residing on a farm), Ollie I., Lucius H., Hattie E. and Cary
H. (the latter being thirteen years of age).

DENMAN, Z. H.
    Z. H. Denman has long been noted for his skill in farming, and for the
success which has attended his efforts in the stock-raising industry. He
comes originally from a State well known for its intelligent, progressive
and enterprising agriculturists, Ohio, which is his place of birth, his
arrival on this "mundane sphere" being in the year 1844. He is the fourth
of eight children born to W. H. and Mary (Brown) Denman, who were born in
Ohio and Virginia, respectively, their marriage taking place in Licking
County, Ohio. Soon after their union they moved to McLean County, Ill., and
from there moved to Nebraska in 1855, and settled in Nemaha County, where
he opened up several good farms. In 1868 he took up a residence in Hall
County, Neb., and started a stock ranch, and after he had put things in
good working order he brought his family thither (in 1871). He died on this
farm in December, 1886, his wife still surviving him. Z. H. Denman was
educated in the subscription schools of Nemaha County, and in 1871 came to
Hall County, which has since been his home. He was married in Nemaha
County, Neb., in 1866, to Miss Margaret E. Lowry, a native of Indiana, and
a daughter of William and Sarah (Clark) Lowry, of Ohio, who came to
Nebraska about 1857, settling in the above named county. Here the father
died in 1858, but the mother is still living and resides in Hall County In
1871 Mr. Denman bought eighty acres of railroad land, but has since
increased his acreage to 280, all of which is under cultivation. He usually
feeds from sixty to seventy-five head of cattle throughout the year, and
finds this business very profitable. He always supports the Republican
party, but is not an office-seeker, although he has been a delegate to the
county conventions. A family of eight children have been born to himself
and wife, six of whom are now living: Clara (Mrs. Park of Reno County,
Kan.), Nellie F., Sarah, George S., Charley and Daisy. JOSEPH A. DENMAN
Joseph A. Denman, farmer and stock-raiser, Grand Island, Neb. It has long
since been acknowledged that no matter what a man's occupation in life may
be, two very necessary elements to his success are industry and
perserverance. This doubtless is the cause of Mr. Denman's success in life.
He was originally. From Licking County, Ohio, where his birth occurred on
November24, 1846, and he came to Nebraska with his parents in 1856. They
settled in Nemaha County, and there our subject grew to manhood and
received his education. He was early taught the duties of farm life by his
father, and after attaining his majority he came to Hall County, where he
purchased a fine tract of land. Two years later, or in 1874 he located on
his farm and began improving the same. He has a good residence, a
substantial barn, out-buildings, sheds, etc., and has a fine young bearing
orchard. He has 120 acres of land, and all is under cultivation. Mr. Denman
was married in this county on October 29, 1873, to Miss Maria Bell Creason,
a daughter of John Creason (now deceased), who was one of the early
settlers of Hall County. Mrs. Denman was born in Des Moines County, Iowa,
but was reared in Hall County, Neb. To her marriage have been born four
children, Lulu, John, Lama and Robert, all attending school. Mr. Denman is
a progressive and enterprising citizen, and is liked by all acquainted with
him.

DENMAN, J. W.
    J.W. Denman, farmer and stock raiser, Grand Island, Neb. On his present
homestead of 160 acres of good tillable land, eighty acres in Alda and
eighty acres in Washington Township, Mr. Denman is actively engaged in
stock raising in connection with farming, and is one of the substantial and
enterprising men of the county. He owes his nativity to McLean County,
Ill., where his birth occurred in 1854, and is the youngest in a family of
eight children, born to the union of W. H. and Mary (Brown) Denman, the
father a native of the Buckeye State and the mother of Virignia. The
parents were married in Ohio, moved from there to Illinois, and in 1856
came to Nebraska, settling in Nemaha County, where he opened up a farm. In
1871 he moved to Hall Count, settling on Section 12, Alda Township, where
he purchased land and began improving the same. His death occurred in 1887.
The mother is still living and makes her home with her son, J.W. The latter
was taught the duties of the farm in boyhood, and received his education in
the schools of Nemaha County. In 1880 he became convinced that it was not
best for man to live alone and was married to Miss Ida Huhn, a native of
Ohio, and the daughter of Jacob and Martha (McGee) Huhn, natives of
Pennsylvania. Her father died years ago but the mother is still living, and
resides in Doniphan Township. After his marriage, Mr. Denman settled on his
present property and is one of the progressive citizens of the county. In
politics he votes with the Republican party, but is not very active in
political affairs. To his marriage were born three children: Bertie, Willie
and Minnie. The family were among the early settlers of the county, and Mr.
Denman has ever taken an active interest in al laudable interprises for the
good of the same.

DENMAN, Willie C.
    Willie C. Denman comes from that land of progressive and enterprising
farmers, the "Buckeye State," his birth occurring in Licking County, August
20, 1858, and since his residence in Hall County, Neb., he has been
accounted one of the successful young agriculturists of this region. He
came with his parents to Hall County, Neb., in August, 1871, and here
received a fair knowledge of the English branches in the common schools
near his home. He worked for his father until he attained his majority,
then continued to till a portion of the home farm for himself, and was
married November 14, 1888, to Miss Mary, a daughter of Charles Fuller, of
Hall County. Mrs. Denman was born in Iowa, but was reared and educated in
Hall County, Neb., and her union to Mr. Denman has resulted in the birth of
one child, an infant daughter, whom they call Bessie Mada. Sine his
marriage Mr. Denman has resided on his present farm, his home farm
consisting of eighty acres of fertile and well improved land. He has a neat
one story residence, and fair barns, granaries, etc. He also has 160 acres
of grazing land, and seventy acres of meadow, in the Platte bottom, on
which is a large herd of high-graded and some thoroughbred animals. He
devotes his time to stock-raising and farming, and is considered a young
man of energy, progressive spirit and clear perception, and gives every
promise of becoming a wealthy citizen.

DERMODY, James
    James Dermody possesses those advanced ideas and progressive views
necessary to successful agricultural life, and his time, since starting out
in life for himself, has not been uselessly oridly spent. He was born in
County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1819, and is a son of Timothy and Mary
(Clancy) Dermody, and grandson of Thomas and Julia (Kelly) Dermody and
James and Julia (Renohan) Clancy. James Dermody removed to Canada in 1846,
locating in Ottawa, and here two years later he was married to Miss Mary
Watters, a daughter of John and Catherine (Gavin) Watters, and
granddaughter of James and Mary (O'Donnell) Watters, and - ---- and Barbara
(Kennedy) Gavin. To their union a family of eight children have been born:
John (deceased), Thomas, Michael, Mary A., William, Barbara, Timothy and
Martha. Mary A. is the wife of John Roach, a prominent young ranchman, of
Custer County, Neb. Mr. Dermody has spent his life in farming and
stockraising, and since the year 1872 these occupations have received his
attention in Hall County, Neb. His farm is one of the finest and best
improved in the county, and is especially adapted to the propagation of
stock, and every acre is capable of tillage. Mr. Dermody's sons are now
grown to manhood, and do the active part of the farm labor.

DeWITTE, A.
    A. DeWitte, well known to the citizens of Hall County, Neb., as an
active, successful farmer and stockman, has been a resident of Alda
Township since 1884, coming from Harrison County, Ohio, to Grand Island. He
was born in that county in 1849, and was the eldest of three children born
to John and Rachel (Turner) DeWitte, who were also born in Harrison County,
Ohio, and of Irish descent. The father was a farmer by occupation, and made
the "Buckeye State" his home until his death, which occurred when the
subject of this sketch was a small lad. The mother died in the year 1872.
A. DeWitte received the early education which usually falls to the lot of
the farmers' boy, but possessing a naturally quick intellect he made good
use of his opportunities and was soon able to make his own way in the
world. His first venture for himself was as a farmer, and the result of his
labor was so satisfactory that he has made it his calling through life, but
came to Hall County, Neb., in the year 1884, and purchased 120 acres of
land in Harrison Township, Hall County. He immediately began stocking his
land, and has since been actively engaged in buying and feeding stock for
the market. He is an active Republican in his political views, held the
office of township supervisor during 1888-89, and has been a member of the
school board of his district. He contracted to take charge of the county
infirmary, his duties commencing in March , 1890, and he now receives a
fixed salary. He has always been a public spirited citizen, and socially is
a member of the A.O.U.W., Charity Lodge No. 91. Miss Emily Wharton became
his wife in 1871, and by her he has three children: Sophronia, Nellie I.
And Lillie L., who are now attending the school at Alda, which is in charge
of an excellent teacher. Mrs. DeWitte is a daughter of Daniel and Patty
(Strode) Wharton, who were born in Pennsylvania and belonged to the Society
of Friends. At an early day they moved to Ohio, and Mr. Wharton purchased
640 acres of land at $25 per acre, improved it and here died in 1881, the
mother's death occurring six months later.

DILL, J. Elmer
    J. Elmer Dill is an active partner in the well known and reliable
real-estate and loan firm of Dill & Huston, of Grand Island, Neb. If
industry, hard work and ceaseless activity can accomplish any thing in this
world, then Mr. Dill is bound to succeed, for in him are to be found all
the characteristics mentioned, and indeed he is deserving of more than
ordinary credit for his career thus far in life. He is a native of the
"Blue Hen State," his birth occurring in Kent County, November 3, 1863, and
he is the eldest of five children born to the marriage of Robert U. Dill
and Anna E. Griffith, also natives of Delaware, the former of whom was born
May 14, 1837. The mother died February 20, 1879. The paternal grandfather,
James W. Dill, was born in Delaware and died in that State about 1866. J.
Elmer Dill received the advantages of the common schools only in his
boyhood, but, possessing a quick intellect and being fairly studious, he
made rapid progress, and at an early age was perfectly capable of "hoeing
his own row." The month of March, 1879, found him in Grand Island, Neb.,
and here for six years he was engaged as a clerk in the store of J.W. West,
but in the spring of 1885 he determined to start in business on his own
responsibility, and accordingly opened a confectionery and fruit store, and
in 1887 admitted Mr. Huston as a partner. They did a thriving business for
two years, but since July, 1889, they have been real estate and loan
agents, and with two such intelligent and enterprising young men at the
helm, they are sure to become wealthy. March 15, 1888, witnessed his
marriage to Miss Jessie Gardner, who was born in Meigs County, Ohio, in
1861, a daughter of Albert and Lucy Gardner. Mr. and Mrs. Dill have a
daughter names Lucy A., who was born August 25, 1889. Mr. Dill is a
Republican, but cast his first presidential vote for Grover Cleveland. He
and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is a charter
member of Nysian Lodge No. 46, K. of P.

DODGE, F. C.
    F. C. Dodge, stock-raiser, Wood River, Neb. A person who devotes almost
a lifetime to any one calling is reasonably expected to achieve a thorough
and accurate knowledge of the details connected with every branch of his
business. The reputation which Mr. Dodge enjoys as a stock-raiser and
feeder is not a local one, as may be seen by perusing this sketch. He was
born in Sullivan County, N.H., in 1840, and there received a good education
in the common schools. He first started out for himself by working in a
mill, then drove teams and was engaged in different occupations until 1865,
when he started for the far West. He came through in a wagon, and was
obliged to stop and work on the way to get money to go on. He left his
native State a week before Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, and reached
Hall County, Neb., in 1866. He was then possessor of $35, which he kindly
loaned to a man whom, it is needless to say, he has not seen since. He went
to work on the grade of the Union Pacific Railroad, received $40 per month
for his services, but later bought a team and worked for a Mr. J. Jackson,
who paid him $1.50 per day. He still continued to work and economize until
he was the possessor of ten teams, after which he contracted on the
railroad. Here he made considerable money and invested in land, 3,700 acres
in all, and began raising stock. He is now one of the largest feeders in
the State, and feeds annually over 10,000 sheep, 1,000 head of hogs and 260
head of cattle. He milks sixty cows and makes a large amount of butter. He
was married in Hall County to Miss Ellen A. Abbott, a native of Canada, and
the fruit of this union has been one child, Gertrude, who is now fifteen
years of age. Mr. Dodge shipped the first cattle, hogs and grain that were
ever shipped out of Wood River, that is from old Wood River. He has one of
the finest farms in the county. He is the son of William and Lucinda
(Stockwell) Dodge, the father a native of New Boston, Mass., and a
shoemaker by trade.

DUDLEY, William
    William Dudley, a well-known citizen of Hall County, Neb., is an
influential resident of Grand Island, and is quite extensively engaged in
the real-estate business. He was born near Plattsburg, Clinton County,
N.Y., February 25, 1849, and possesses those attributes of energy,
enterprise and intelligence which have ever characterized those born and
reared in the "Empire State." He is a son of Francis and Sarah (Santwire)
Dudley, the former of whom was born in Berkshire, England, and came to
America with his parents, locating in Montreal, Canada, when he was a small
child. The paternal grandfather, Andrew Dudley, was a British officer and
died shortly after his arrival at Montreal, his wife dying about the same
time, so that Francis was left an orphan when between two and three years
of age. He was adopted by a Frenchmen by the name of Julius Burissis, and
with him he remained until he was twenty-one years of age, being engaged in
farm labor up to that time. On becoming his own man he concluded to located
in the United States, and his home during the balance of his life was in
Clinton County, N.Y. For a great many years he was engaged in boating on
Lake Champlain in the capacity of first mate and pilot, but during the
latter part of his life he gave his attention to agricultural pursuits. He
was quite successful in all his enterprises and before his death had
acquired considerable means. He was married at about the age of
twenty-eight years to Miss Sarah Santwire, who was born in Clinton County,
N.Y., September, 1820, a daughter of Peter and Margaret (Laplant) Santwire,
who were born, reared and married in Paris, France. Mr. and Mrs. Dudley
became the parents of nine children, two sons and three daughters now
living, William being the third of the family. The father passed from life
March 17, 1880, and the mother June 5, 1883. William Dudley was reared on a
farm in his native county, and at the age of twenty-one years he entered
the employ of the Wood Machine Company, and acted as their traveling
salesman for about twelve years throughout the United States and Canada. In
1882 he resigned his poisition and located on a farm seven miles northwest
of Grand Island, Neb., and there founded a nursery which he conducted
several years, but in March, 1887, he removed to Grand Island, and his
whole attention since that time has been given to real-estate business, in
which he is meeting with the best of success. A fact that should be stated
is that he deals in no lands except his own, and is now the owner of some
35,000 acres, 6,000 being in one body in Washington County, Ga., 10,000
acres in one body in McDowell County, W. Va., and 5,600 acres in one body
in Clay County, Ky., besides large tracts to Tennessee, and $10,000 worth
of residence property in Des Moines, Iowa. Mr. Dudley is a pleasant spoken
and agreeable gentleman, and in his business operations has always been
found to be the soul of honor and has done well by those who have had
dealings with him. He has always been a stanch Republican in politics, and
socially is a member of the A.O.U.W. He was married November 14, 1878, to
Miss Colista M. Taylor, who was born in Essex County, N.Y., August 7, 1850,
and by her is the father of two children: Frank Nathan (born September 3,
1882), and Florence (born January 3, 1889). He and wife are highly
respected by all and have many warm personal friends. Mrs. Dudley is a
daughter of Nathan and Susan (Bull) Taylor, who were born in Ruport, Vt.,
December 25, 1811 and Essex County, N.Y., December 4, 1813, respectively.
The father is still living in Essex County, N.Y., but his wife died August
2, 1876. Mrs. Dudley's grandfather, William Taylor, was born in Vermont and
was then married to Rhoda Harmon, also a native of that State. The maternal
grandparents were Benjamin and Sally Bull, also born in the "Green Mountain
State."

DUFFORD, Charles
    Charles Dufford, another pioneer of Doniphan Township and one of the
foremost citizens of the same, emigrated to Hall County, Neb., in the
spring of 1871, and homesteaded 160 acres on Section 4. He was the first to
erect a frame house on the table lands south of the Platte River. Mr.
Dufford was born in Northampton County, Pa., in 1839, and was the son of
Joseph and Sarah (Kelley) Dufford, natives also of the Keystone State. The
father was a farmer, and in 1854 removed to Wisconsin, where he continued
his former pursuit, and where his death occurred in 1864. The mother died
in Michigan about 1875. Charles Dufford assisted his father on the farm,
and received his education in the schools of Pennsylvania. At the age of
fifteen years he went to Wisconsin, and in 1864 began farming for himself.
Previous to this, in 1860, he crossed the plains overland to Southern
Oregon, and drove an ox-team. In 1861 he enlisted in Jackson County, Ore.,
in Company A., First Oregon Cavalry, and went into service at Jacksonville
of that State. He then wintered there, and in 1862 went to, Walla Walla,
where he took part in the Indian warfare in the Northwest Territory. He
remained on the plains until 1863, when he was honorably discharged at Fort
Dallas, Ore. He then worked on a farm, and in 1863 returned by the overland
stage to Wisconsin. He was married in Green County of the last named State,
on December 8, 1863, to Miss Addie Shultz, a native of Wisconsin and the
daughter of John R. and Eliza (Armstrong) Shultz, natives of North Carolina
and New York, respectively. Mr. Shultz settled in Wisconsin at an early
day, and in 1872 emigrated to Nebraska, where he closed his eyes to the
scenes of this world in the same year. The mother died in 1874. After his
marriage Mr. Dufford farmed in Wisconsin until 1871, when he moved to
Nebraska. He is now the owner of 160 acres of good arable land, and has
followed agricultural pursuits ever since coming to this State, with the
exception of two years, when he was in the furniture business in Doniphan.
He is now engaged in farming, and a glance over his place indicates the
kind of farmer that he is. He is active in politics, and his vote is cast
with the Republican party. He is a member of A.J. Smith Post No. 65, G.A.R.
He has no children of his own but has an adopted child, Stella. Mr. Dufford
has seen the complete growth of the country, and was one of the original
settlers of the township. Grand Island's population numbered not over 600
souls at that date, and all was wild and unbroken. Although he has
experienced three grasshopper raids, and was through the April storm of
1873, he still likes the State, and expects to make it his permanent home.
During the years of 1871 and 1872 his principal occupation was in hunting,
as wild game was numerous, and he kept his family and relatives in meat. He
still has the old shot-gun with which he scoured the country.

DUNN, John and Mary     John and Mary Dunn, prosperous agriculturists of
Hall County, Neb., are engaged in tilling the soil on the east half of the
northwest quarter of Section 14, Township 10, Range 12 west, and are justly
ranked among the respected residents of this section. Mrs. Dunn was
formerly Mrs. Mariah McNutt, and was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, in
1845, in the fall of 1859, emigrating to the United States with her
parents, but in 1861 her father died and left three brothers and herself to
fight the battle of life as best they could. Being possessed of an original
and vigorous mind she came to the conclusion that Horace Greeley's advice
would apply to young women as well as young men, and in 1872 came West,
settling at Grand Island, and two years later took up the claim of 160
acres, upon which she is now living. Her marriage to Mr. Dunn was
consummated soon after, and they have since held their own with the farmers
in their vicinity, and are very comfortably and pleasantly situated. Their
farm is well stocked, and is nicely improved. Mr. Dunn is a son of William
and Rose (Brady) Dunn, who were born on the "Emerald Isle," and emigrated
to the United States at an early day, locating in Waukesha County, Wis.,
where their son, John, was born May 30, 1847.

EAGER, Alvin
    Alvin Eager was a successful merchant and stock-dealer of Prairie Creek
Township, and since locating in Hall County, Neb., in 1874, has done his
full share in advancing every interest in the county, and his endeavors
toward promoting this end have been recognized by a host of acquaintances,
among whom he stands high as a man and citizen. He was born in Oneida
County, N.Y., April 19, 1842, and is a son of William and Caroline Eager,
both natives of York State, who moved to Wisconsin in 1854, locating in
Rock County on a farm, on which the father died in the month of February,
1871, his wife having died in York State in 1850. Alvin Eager attained
manhood in Rock County, Wis., and was energetically at work when the war
broke out. In the month of May, 1861, he enlisted in the Second Wisconsin
Infantry, and after serving three years was discharged at Madison in June,
1864, having participated in the first and second battles of Bull Run,
Gettysburg, Wilderness and Spottsylvania Court House. He was wounded at the
Second Bull Run by a gun-shot in the face and was taken prisoner at
Gettysburg, and after being held in captivity for one month was paroled. He
was also wounded in the hand by a gun-shot at Spottsylvania. After the
close of the war he returned to Rock County, Wis., and after following the
occupation of farming there until 1868, he moved to Chickasaw County, Iowa,
where he was engaged in farming six years. In 1874 he settled on a farm
near Grand Island, Neb., but in the fall of 1888 he moved to the station,
where he has since been engaged in merchandising, giving also a
considerable portion of his attention to stock-dealing. He has held a
number of positions of trust in the county, and socially is a member of the
A.O.U.W. He was married in Iowa January 1, 1868, to Miss Julia Pheban, a
native of York State, reared and educated in New York City, and their union
has resulted in the birth of five children: Melvina (Wife of Abe Leicer),
Frank, George, John and Minnie.

ELLINGTON, Michael
    Michael Ellington was born in Madison County, Ohio, September 19, 1826,
being a son of David and Catherine (Hoffman) Ellington the former's birth
occurring in the "Blue Grass State," August 22, 1797; he died on his
birthday in 1883. He grew to manhood in Ohio, but in 1829 moved to
Illinois, and died in DeWitt County of this State. He was a Democrat and a
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife was born in Ohio, her
birth occurring a few years later than his, and their union resulted in the
birth of twelve children, seven of whom grew to maturity and are still
living. The paternal grandfather was born in Kentucky in 1773, and was one
of the early pioneers of Ohio. He spent rather a roving life wandering over
Missouri and Arkansas, and passed from life in the State of Indiana. The
maternal grandfather was a soldier in the Ware of 1812. Michael Ellington
grew to manhood in DeWitt County, Ill., and obtained a common-school
education. In the month of April, 1850, he went West and traveled
throughout California, Oregon, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas and
Nebraska, and in 1866 entered the regular service of the United States
army, and was a soldier on the frontier for five years, during which time
he had many thrilling encounters with the Indians. Upon receiving his
discharge in 1871 he went to St. Louis, Mo., thence to Illinois, where he
purchased land and tilled the soil for sixteen years, then sold out and
came to Nebraska in 1888. He is now the owner of 210 acres of excellent
land, which brings him in a yearly income more than sufficient to supply
himself and wife with all necessary comforts during their declining years.
He was married in 1882 to Mrs. Rebecca Arnold, but as they have no children
of their own, they have adopted a grandson of Mrs. Ellington's, Charley
Evans, the adoption taking place April 17, 1886, in De Witt County, Ill.
The present Mrs. Ellington was married first, in Wisconsin, to Lemuel
Evans, and to them a family of three children were born: Thomas, John and
William. Mrs. And Mrs. Ellington are living in happiness and contentment,
and their only care is the rearing and educating of their adopted son. Mr.
Ellington in his early travels visited Central America twice. He is a
Democrat, but liberal in his views.

EWING, Robert
    Robert Ewing. Among the many families that emigrated westward early in
the decade of '70, and located in Hall County, Neb., non have been more
successful than that of the Ewings. They are native New Yorkers, and hal
from Allegany County. In the year 1866 they settled in Cedar County, Iowa,
where they followed farming, to which occupation they had been reared, and
made that State their home until 1871, when the father of our immediate
subject, who also bore the name of Robert, died. In 1872, the family
wishing to find a place where industry would receive its highest reward,
wisely sought the prairies of Nebraska, and settled in Hall County, where
they have stood in the vanguard among the agriculturists, the many broad
acres which they own and the social position which they occupy, testifying
to this fact. Four of the brothers now occupy one of the most valuable
tracts of land in the county, and are honorable and useful citizens, their
names being Robert, William, Charles and Edwin. Hon. James Ewing, one of
the family, rose to distinction in Hall County, and was at one time one of
the most popular men in this portion of the State, but the numerous duties,
both public and private, imposed upon him became more than the physical man
could endure, and death called him in the midst of his public duties and in
the zenith of his power, on October 31, 1888. He was born in Allegany
County, N.Y., July 7, 1850, and assisted his father on the farm and
attended the common schools near his home until he was sixteen years of
age, then removed with his parents to Cedar County, Iowa, and until
twenty-three years of age his time was spent in attending and teaching in
the public schools. He then came to Hall County, Neb., to seek his fortune,
and soon found employment as a teacher in the Moore district, but after a
few terms he took charge of the school at Shelton. He was exceptionally
successful as an educator, and took such an interest in educational matters
that in the fall of 1877 he was elected superintendent of public
instruction for Hall County, displaying much ability and energy in the
discharge of his duties, and at the expiration of his term was re-elected.
Upon leaving this office he purchased the Wood River Gazette, then a
five-column folio struggling for existence, and in the management of this
he was as successful as in his former occupation, and soon advanced the
subscription list from 200 to 700, the result of his ability as an
editorial writer, his good judgment and sagacity. The first three years of
his career as an editor he also filled the position of deputy county
treasurer, which necessitated him leaving Wood River early in the morning
and returning late in the afternoon, and during this period the readers of
his paper were treated to the midnight productions of his pen. At the close
of his work as deputy treasurer he devoted his time entirely to his paper,
but his rest from public cares was very short, and in 1886 he was elected
to represent Hall County in the State Legislature, and received every vote
in Wood River Township with the exception of ten. He also proved a valuable
public servant in this capacity, and in recognition of his services he was
re-nominated by acclamation in the Republican convention held at Grand
Island, but did not live to discharge his duties. On January 10, 1884, he
was married to Miss Alma E. Thompson, of Hall County, and the result of
this union was a son, Arthur (who died December 31, 1888). Mr. Ewing held a
number of local offices also, and in the capacity of justice of the peace
of Wood River filled the position in everything the name implies, and by
his kindly advice and fairness made many warm friends. He was township
treasurer six years, and at the time of his death was nominee for the two
last offices. From the time the village of Wood River was organized he was
a member of the town board, being all of the time chairman, and his advice
was always found to be sound and to the best interests of the town. His
life, an active and successful one, was devoted greatly to the welfare and
happiness of others, and he was liberal and charitable in his views to all,
and by all his death was deeply lamented. His funeral, which was conducted
by the I.O.O.F. and A.O.U.W., to which he belonged, was the largest
gathering of the kind every held in Wood River, and all business houses
were closed and heavily draped in mourning out of respect for him who had
been a friend and brother to all. Such a man as he could not associate with
the young men of the community without inspiring them with a wish to live
and upright, honorable life, to live for others as well as themselves, and
to leave such monuments to their memory as he has done wherever they may
reside. John Ewing, another brother, was also born in Allegany County,
N.Y., in 1857, and supplemented his common-school education with a course
at Gibbon Academy, Buffalo County, Neb., his first term of school being
taught in Hall County, at the age of nineteen years, this occupation
receiving his attention for about seven years. He became well known
throughout Hall County as a successful educator, but is now giving his
attention to farming, his land lying about six miles northwest of Wood
River, and comprision of 360 acres. His wife, Miss Laura Dubbs, was born in
Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1864, and by her he has a family of four
children: Gertrude, William, John A. and James A. Mr. Ewing is a
Republican, and is a member of the A.O.U.W. His wife is a daughter of W.W.
Dubbs, who was born in Ohio, and came to Hall County, Neb., in the spring
of 1872. Robert Ewing, our immediate subject, owes his nativity to Allegany
County, N.Y., his birth occurring in 1853. For several years after coming
to Nebraska the brothers had a very hard time to get along, owing to lack
of rain, but they were every ready to put their shoulders to the wheel when
honorable work could be found, and they are now reaping their reward, for
they are accounted among the most successful of Hall County's
agriculturists and stockmen. The four brothers mentioned above now own 640
acres of land, have 121 head of fat steers feeding, 100 head of hogs and
sixty head of stock cattle. They are wide awake and enterprising young men,
and owing to their native pluck and enterprise have made their present
valuable property. They are quite talented musicians, one playing first
violin, another second violin, the third the Bell clarionet and the fourth
the bass viol. They are bachelors, and in their political views are stanch
Republicans. Charles Ewing was elected as a member of the board of
supervisors of Hall County in 1888, and re-elected in 1889. His re-election
proves that he possesses in a considerable degree some of the elements of
personal popularity. The township where Mr. Ewing has been re-elected has a
Democratic majority of sixty-two votes on the State ticket, and Mr. Ewing
overcame this with a large majority. The father and mother, Robert Ewing
and wife, were born in Scotland in 1819 and 1824, and died in 1871 and
1883, respectively. All of their nine children grew to maturity.

EWOLDT, Cay Henry
    Cay Henry Ewoldt is an old pioneer of Center Township, who located in
Hall County, Neb., in 1857, although his birth occurred in Germany, August
14, 1831, he being a son of Paul and Cecilia Ewoldt. He became a subject of
"Uncle Sam" in 1852, and from that time until 1857 he resided in Iowa,
Wisconsin and Minnesota, spending two years in Davenport, of the first
State, one year in the next and one in the last. He then returned to
Davenport and joined a party of thirtyone emigrants, who came to Hall
County, Neb., but it was not until 1862 that Mr. Ewoldt settled on his
present farm. He has from titme to time increased his original purchase,
and is now the owner of 460 acres of magnificent land, well stocked and
improved. He has always been closely identified with agricultural pursuits
in this vicinity, and his well-established characteristics of energy,
perseverance and unbounded industry have brought him safe returns. He gives
excellent management to his farm, and no man in the entire county stand
higher for honor and integrity than Mr. Ewoldt. He was married September 1,
1862, to Miss Eliza C. Stuben, a native of Germany, born November 15, 1842,
a daughter of Claus and Lena Stuben. She came to America in 1858, and after
spending four years in LaFayette, Ind., came to Hall County, Neb. They have
a family of eleven children: Bernard, Cecilia, Caroline, henry, Wilhemine,
Julius, Amelia, Clara, Laura, Hermann and Lizzie, of whom Caroline, Laura
and Lizzie are deceased. Mr. Ewoldt and his wife are members of the German
Lutheran Church, and in his political views he is a Democrat.

FINCH, D. A., D. D. S.
    D.A. Finch, D.D.S., a young man still in his twenties, is, however,
conceded to be one of the leading dentists of Hall County, Neb. He was born
in Oneida County, N.Y., November 19, 1863, and is the second of four
children born to Daniel and Maria (Livesey) Finch, who were born in England
and brought to the United States when children, and here reared to
maturity. The former's death occurred in York State in 1878, at the age of
forty-two years, but the mother, who was born in 1843, is still living, and
resides at Camden, that State. Dr. Finch received a good practical
education in the public schools of his native State, and finished his
literary education in the Camden High School, from which he graduated in
1882. The following year he began the study of dentistry in the office of
Doten & Martin, of Camden, N.Y., and with them remained until the spring of
1885, when he followed Horace Greeley's advice, and came west to grow up
with the contry, locating at Grand Island, and has done exceptionally well,
for his ability and learning are well recognized in Hall County, and the
people have given him a large patronage. He is in every respect a selfmade
man, and has done much to advance the business interests of Grand Island.
He belongs to the K/ of P., the Modern Woodmen of America, and he and wife
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His marriage occurred in
August, 1888, at which time Miss Addie M. Hall, born near Terre Haute,
Ind., January 8, 1864, became his wife. She is a daughter of Harrison and
Eliza (Carpenter) Hall, who now reside in Tacoma, Wash.

FINES, John W.
    John W. Fines, farmer and stock raiser, Shelton, Neb. The name that
heads this sketch is that of one of the well-known residents of Hall
County, Neb. Like many other settlers in the county he came originally from
Pike County, Ill, where his birth occurred on June 5, 1858. His father,
William Fines, was a native of England, born about 1810, and in 1830 he
emigrated to America, where, he was one of the pioneers of Pike County,
Ill. About 1852 he married Mrs. Sarah Musgrave, the widow of Joseph
Musgrave, who came from England with his family, and by her bacme the
father of four children: Martha, James, Joseph and Sarah Ann. Joseph is
deceased. Mr. Fines died immediately after landing. Mrs. Fines was the
mother of five children by her former marriage: Charles, Esau (deceased),
Jacob, John W., Abigail. The father of the last named children came from
England to America in 1830. John W. Fines started out for himself at the
age of twenty years, and one year later was married to Miss Zerlda Myers,
daughter of John and Annie Myers, of Hall County, Neb. This union resulted
in the birth of four children: Lilly M., Amzie, Loretta and an infant
unnamed, all living. Mr. Fines has secured a good start in life by his
close application to all enterprises undertaken by good business
investments. He has a good stock of cattle, horses and hogs, and a large
tract of land, which is fenced. Water is found in abundance a few feet
below the surface, and, take it all in all, Mr. Fines is highly pleased
with Nebraska. He is a member of no political party or church, but has
recently become a member of the Farmers' Allicance.

FRANCIS, Thomas
    Thomas Francis possesses advanced ideas regarding agricultural life and
since 1869 has been engaged in tilling his present farm, which comprises of
160 acres of good land. He is a son of William and Mary (Haley) Francis,
and was born in County Galway, Ireland, in 1832, and was reared to manhood
in his native land. Two brothers have become subjects of Uncle Sam, he
determined to seek a home in the United States also, and accordingly landed
on American shores, and went to Wheeling W. Va., but soon after joined his
brothers, at Barnesville, Ohio, remaining with them two years. He then
pushed westward and for nearly two years he was engaged in railroading
between Chicago and Detroit, Mich., but the year 1854 found him in
Louisville, Ky., and a short time after in New Orleans, where he remained
until 1856, then went to Nashville, Tenn., thence to St. Louis, where he
again followed railroading, this time being on the Iron Mountain Road. In
1858 he returned to Nashville, was there during the opening of the
Rebellion, joined the army and served nearly four years, participating in
the following engagements: Perryville, Blue Springs, Strawberry Plains,
Cumberland Gap and numerous skirmishes. In 1867 he was united in marriage
to Miss Bridget Ryan, a daughter of William and Sabina Ryan, adn to them
the following family was born: William (who was born March 31, 1869),
Michael (born December 22, 1872), Mary (born May 15, 1874), and Sabina
(born July 17, 1876). Mr. Francis came with his family to Hall County,
Neb., in March, 1869, and located on 160 acres of land which is well
watered by Wood River, which runs through it. He has a fine young orchard
and his residence is located about a mile and a half from Shelton, Buffalo
County, Neb. Mr. Francis and all his family are strict members of the Roman
Catholic Church and he is a stanch Democrat and member of the Farmers'
Alliance.

FUEHRMAN, Henry Theodore Julius
    Henry Theodore Julius Fuehrman is a well known and highly skillful
architect of Grand Island, Neb., and was born in Brunswick, Germany, March
27, 1858, being the only son of Henry and Tulia Fuehrman, the latter of
whom is now deceased. The father still resides in Germany. The immediate
subject of this biography attended the schools of his native land until he
was fourteen years of age, after which he served an aprenticeship at the
mason's trade. Upon leaving school he decided to prepare himself for the
duties of an architect, and throughout his entire youth he devoted himself
closely to the study of architecture in different polytechnic insititutions
throughout his native land. When twenty years of age he entered the Germany
Army, serving one year, and in 1882 he came to America, and after spending
two years in Chicago and in different places in Dakota and Omaha, Neb., he
came to Grand Island, which place has since continued to be his home. Soon
after coming to Hall County he did some brick laying, but as soon as an
opportunity present itself he resumed the calling of an architect, and has
given his entire attention to that pursuit for the past five years, and is
at present one of the leading men of his callingin the State. The following
are some of the principal buildings on which he has worked: The City Hall,
Michelson Block, Catholic Church, Baptist University, Soldiers' Home, and
the Oxsnard Beet-Sugar Factory in Grand Island and the Buffalo County
Courthouse at Kearney, Neb. He has built up an enviable reputation, for he
is a very skillful workman and is noted for the throoughness of his work.
September 19, 1885, he was married to Miss Dora Joehnck, a daughter of
Henry Joehnck, a sketch of whom appears in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Fuehrman
have two children: Julia and Gustav. Mr. Fuehrman is a member of the
A.O.U.W., and politically is a Republican. He is a skilled draughtsman and
possesses much natural ability for his chosen calling.

FULLER, Charles
    Charles Fuller, farmer, Alda, Hall County, Neb., a lifetime of hard,
earnest endeavor in pursuing the occupation to which he now gives his
attention, coupled with strict integrity, honesty of purpose and liberality
in all directions, have had a result to place Mr. Fuller among the truly
respected and honored agriculturiests of the county. He was born in the
State of New York May 31, 1829, and is the son of Pamenus and Hannah
(Hubbard) Fuller, both natives also of the Empire State. They were married
there and subsequently moved to Pennsylvania, locating in Erie County,
where the father followed the stone mason and plastering trade. He moved to
Ashtabula County, Ohio, then Medina County, where he passed the closing
scenes of his life. He lived on a farm the principal part of his life. He
was born October 13, 1801, and died March 1, 1861, and the mother was born
April 5, 1805. Their family consisted of the following children (four
living): Marilla (born February 11, 1824), Reuben(born November 10, 1826),
Charles (born Mary 31, 1829), Thomas (born August 3, 1831), Sidney (born
December 28, 1833), James (born October 29, 1836), George (born October 13,
1839), Franklin (born February 26, 1842), Henry (born July 29, 1845) and
Susan (born February 27, 1849). The mother of these children died in 1861,
only about two weeks after the death of her husband. Charles Fuller was
still in his teens when he moved with his parents to Ohio, and he got $4
per month for three months during the summer when he winnowed hay with a
hand rake. He attended the common schools of that State and worked on a
farm until he was married. He then picked up the carpenter trade and went
to Pennsylvania, thence to Iowa, where he settled in Fayette County, and
followed his trade there for some time. He owned a farm and continued to
cultivate the soil in the last named county until 1879, when he emigrated
to Nebraska, and purchased 160 acres of land in Hall County. He was married
in 1854 in Erie County, pa., to Miss Clarinda Wicks, who was born in the
Keystone State in 1837, and to them have been born four living children:
Melvin C. (born July 7, 1858), Mary C. (born May 31, 1868), Monroe (born
April 12, 1870) and Edward F. (born March 6, 1878). The children deceased
were Elnora L. (who was born April 7, 1863, and died in Iowa February 20,
1867), and the others were infants. Mrs. Fuller was the daughter of J.S.
and Harriet (Conant) Wicks, the father a native of Vermont, born in 1809.
The latter was reared in the State of New York, was married there, and
there resided until 1836, when he wne to Pennsylvania and there died May
21, 1889. Grandfather Conant was a native of Scotland, and emigrated to
America before the War of 1812. Mrs. Fuller is in possession of a pair of
eyeglasses given her by her maternal grandfather, and which have been in
the family for many years.

FULLER, M. C.
    M.C. Fuller, farmer and stock raiser, Alda, Neb. Mr. Fuller owes his
nativity to Gratiot County, Mich., where his birth occurred July 7, 1858,
and is now following a calling that has for ages received undivided efforts
from many worthy individuals, and one that always furnishes sustenance to
the ready worker. He is the eldest ina family of five children born to the
union of Charles and Clarinda (Wicks) Fuller, natives of New York and
Pennsylvania, respectively. The parents were married in the Keystone State,
and there the father followed original agricultural pursuits, but in
connection carried on the carpenter trade. He subsequently moved to Ohio,
thence to Gratiot County, Mich., back agin to Ohio, then to Fayette County,
Iowa, and there remained until 1879, when he came to Hall County, Neb., and
settled in Wood River Township. There they both reside at the present time.
M.C. Fuller was early initiated into the duties of farm life, and received
a liberal education in the schools of Fayette County, Iowa. He came to
Nebraska in 1879, and was married at Prairie Du Chien, Wis., on April 11,
of that year, to Miss Lydia H. Brooks, a native of Fayette County, Iowa,
and the daughter of Chancy and Hannah Brooks, natives of New York and Ohio,
respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Brooks settled in Iowa at an early day, and
there the father still resides. The mother died in 1876. In 1882 Mr. Fuller
purchased an unimproved farm of 160 acres, and went to work upon the same.
He has since erected a good house, barn, outbuildings, and is also engaged
in raising a good grade of stock. He is active in politics, and votes with
the Republican party. He was appointed justice of the peace in 1887, was
subsequently elected and re-elected in 1889. Socially he is a member of the
Alda Lodge No. 165, A.O.U.W., and as a citizen and neighbor is thoroughly
liked. To his marriage have been born two children: Hannah C. (born June
19, 1880) and Wesley M. (whose birth occurred September 29, 1885.)

           2001 © Kaylynn Loveland, Hall County NEGenWeb Project
(End of File)