Scheckler Mostly Racine-Some Somers


About Eliza (Mrs. John)
The 1920 U.S. Census shows Eliza Scheckler, age 86, widowed, living with her son George Scheckler, his wife Grace and children Irwin, Ethel in Mt. Pleasant, Racine County.



About Fred W. Scheckler
Lived in Mt. Pleasant or Racine
Fred W. Scheckler, born about 1862
Florance Scheckler, spouse, born about 1868
Bell F. Scheckler, daughter, born about 1886
Bertha G. Scheckler, daughter, born about 1888
Blanch M. Scheckler, daughter, born about 1893
Pearl Scheckler, daughter, born about 1905
(Source:  Census Reports for 1905, 1910, 1920, 1930)



1890 and 1892 City of Racine Directory
Frederick L. Scheckler, 1619 Winslow Ct., Occupation:  Butcher


About John Scheckler (son of John and Eliza Scheckler)
Lived in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois with wife Caroline G., born in Illinois in about 1872, and son Keith who was born about 1891 in Chicago, Cook County.  Keith Scheckler married Gertrude Nachtway September 23, 1916 in Cook County, Illinois
(Source:  Census reports for 1910, 1920, 1930 and Marriage Index for Cook County)

Keith Scheckler registered for the WWI Draft
Name:  Keith John Scheckler, 3134 Leland, Cook County
Born: January 9, 1891 at ElPaso, Illinois
Trade: Managed Real Estate Office at Northern Trust Co., 50 S. LaSalle St., Chicago
(Source:  The National Archives, WWI Registration Cards 1917-1918)
Keith died in DuPage County, Illinois October 10, 1995
(Source:  Social Security Death Index)

"Mrs. John Scheckler and son Keith have returned to their home in Chicago after enjoying a month's sojourn in Berryville."
(Source:  Racine Journal Times, publication date October 22, 1900)



About Elizabeth M. Scheckler Near (daughter of John and Eliza Scheckler
Elizabeth M. Scheckler, born in 1863.  She married in 1892 Mr. John Near, born about 1863, son of Jacob and Rachell Near, who lived in Racine, Wisconsin in 1870.  The lived in Alcester, Union, South Dakota in 1900, Algona, Kossuth, Iowa in 1925, and Minneapolis, Hennepin, Minn. in 1930.  Elizabeth and her husband John had two daughters:  Cleo Leone and Edith C.
(Source:  Census Reports for 1870, 1900, 1925, and 1930)



About Ernest G. Scheckler

Ernest Scheckler

Born:  May 30, 1862 at Berryville, Wisconsin
Parents:  John G. and Eliza Scheckler
Death:  May 5, 1922 in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois
Buried:  Rosehill Cemetery
Spouse of Ernest G. Scheckler:  Kate
(Source:  Illinois Death Index 1916-1947)

Ernest Scheckler lived in Mt. Pleasant with his parents and siblings. (1870)
Ernest Scheckler lived in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois with his wife Tilda Scheckler and their children Ada and Harry. (1910)
Ernest Scheckler lived in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois with his wife Clotilda Scheckler. (1920)
(Source US Census for 1870, 1910, 1920)

"Mr. and Mrs. George Scheckler and family motored to Chicago last week to see Ernie Scheckler, who has been quite ill."
(Source:  Racine Journal Time publication date March 18, 1922)


About William H. Scheckler
Lived in Mt. Pleasant with parents and siblings. (1880)
Lived in Mt. Pleasant with his wife, Emma M. who was born July 1875 in Wisconsin.  They were married in 1894.  Two children:  a son, Guy born October 1894 and a daughter, Myrtil born October 1894. (1900)
Lived in Racine.  A third child was born 1906, a son, Edward W. (1910)
(Source:  Census Reports for 1880, 1900, and 1910)



About Guy Scheckler
"Guy Scheckler, who is attending Lawrence College, is spending a few days with his parents at 1415 Wisconsin Street."
(Source:  Racine Journal News, publication date April 14, 1915)

"Mrs. Thomas R. Williams of Lathrop Avenue entertained at a pretty party recently in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Guy R. Scheckler, formerly of Racine, but now of Crystal Falls, Michigan.  Mr. and Mrs. Scheckler were married only a short time ago.
The evening was pleasantly passed with music and games and a dainty luncheon was served.  In behalf of their friends, Mrs. Williams presented the young couple with a beautiful chest of silver.  At a late hour the guests departed wishing Mr. and Mrs. Scheckler a long life of happiness.
The bride is a popular young woman of this city and the groom is a representative of the Hans Buege law firm of Milwaukee.
(Source:  Racine Journal News, publication date December 5, 1917)


About William L. Scheckler
"Mr. and Mrs. W.L. Scheckler observed their wedding anniversary yesterday.  The house was handsomely decorated for the occasion.  The dining room  was decorated in lavender and white, and the living room in yellow, while the parlor was decorated in pink and green.  Among the out of town guests present were Mr. and Mrs. E.G. Scheckler, Mrs. J.H. Scheckler, Keith Scheckler of Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. H. Krueger.  Mrs. and Mrs. Scheckler were presented with many handsome gifts.  The music for the occasion was furnished by the John Carey orchestra.
(Source:  Racine Journal Times, publication date March 11, 1912)

"Says the Vincennes, Indiana Sunday Commercial, under date of November 7, 1915:  W.H. Scheckler and son, Guy, of Racine, Wisconsin, were in the city yesterday.  Mr. Scheckler and son are touring from their home to Miami, Florida where they will remain until next June.  They are making the trip in a Case 35 and report that they have had no trouble so far.  They say that the roads in Indiana are the best they have gone over on their journey.  Mr. Scheckler stated that he was in the city some four months ago looking after some real estate and that upon entering the city was hardly able to recognize it on account of the vast improvements which have taken place.  They left Sunday morning at an early hour for Evansville from which point they will continue their journey southward and if conditions are favorable they expect to reach their destination in about two weeks.
(Source: Racine Journal New, publication date November 10, 1915


About George Scheckler
Lived in Mt. Pleasant with parents and siblings. (1880)
Lived in Mt. Pleasant with his wife, Grace Scheckler.  Year Married 1900.  (1900)
Lived in Mt. Pleasant with his wife, Grace Scheckler and two children:  Irwin born 1901 and Ethel born 1903 and mother of George, Eliza Scheckler. (1910)
Lived in Mt. Pleasant.  Same as 1910.  (1920)
(Source:  Census Reports 1880, 1900, 1920, 1920)



More About George Scheckler
George Sheckler, son of John Sheckler, was born on the old family homestead in Mt. Pleasant township on January 14, 1873 and at the usual age entered the district schools, continuing his education there until he reached the age of sixteen.  He was a lad of but ten years when his father died and after his textbooks were put aside he worked on the old homestead and afterward took over the management of the property, upon which he has since lived, having thirty two acres of land which he devotes to truck gardening.  The vegetables which he produces are of fine size and quality and therefore find a ready sale on the market.  In all his business dealings he is thoroughly reliable, his transactions ever measuring up to honorable standards.
On the 8th of March 1900 Mr. Sheckler was married to Miss Grace Dearsley, daughter of William and Lena  (Wyman) Dearsley( also a pioneer of Berryville), and they have two children: Irwin and Ethel.  George Sheckler votes with the Republican party, has served as a member of the school board, and belongs to the Methodist Church.
(Source:  Racine:  Belle City of the Lakes and Racine County, Fanny Stone, Sup Editor, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1916)


A.J. Scheckler and Minnie Hansche Wedding 

A. J. Scheckler and Minnie Hansche Scheckler
Wedding Photo - Date around 1890
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Richard Bovey)

A.J. Scheckler

A.J. Scheckler Meat Market, Racine, Wisconsin
(Photo Source:  Courtesy of Richard Bovey)

A.J. Scheckler, who has conducted a meat maket at the corner of Village and 13th Streets for the past 16 years has sold out the business to Terry & Turner.

(Source:  Racine Daily Journal September 17, 1907)

Scheckler Bros Meat Market

Scheckler, August (Scheckler Bros)

Scheckler, Charles (Scheckler Bros)

Meat Market 1310 Villa Street

(Source U.S. City Directory-Racine 1890-1895)

Alfred J. Hansche, the second son of Frederick J. Hansche, now occupies and cultivates the old home farm in connection with his brother, Samuel H. He was born in Mount Pleasant township, February 28, 1874, and attended the district schools until he reached the age of sixteen or seventeen years. He then went to Racine, where he was employed for nine years in the meat market of A. J. Sheckler but on the expiration of that period he returned to the home farm, of which he has since had charge in connection with his brother. They have carefully and systematically cultivated the place, which is largely devoted to the raising of vegetables, and for their product they find a ready sale on the market. The work is systematically and scientifically carried on. They have studied the needs of the soil, know where the best results can be achieved for each crop and their annual sales now amount to a large figure.

In 1904 Alfred J. Hansche was married to Miss Jennie Bose, a daughter of William F. And Nellie (Breaid) Bose. Two children have been born to this marriage, Dorothy and George, who are with their parents on the old homestead, and in the community the family is regarded most highly, occupying a position of prominence and influence. In his political views Mr. Hansche is an earnest republican, while his religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church. His record, like that of the others of the Hansche family, is most creditable and through more than half a century the Hansches have borne a helpful and important part in the work of developing and improving this section of the state.
(Source) RACINE BELLE CITY OF THE LAKES AND RACINE COUNTY WISCONSIN-ILLUSTRATED
VOLUME II Record of Settlement, Organization, Progress and Achievement
THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING COMPANY 1916 


Wisconsin Cereal Food Co., Inc.
A.J. Scheckler, Vice President of Wisconsin Cereal Food Co., Inc.  Est 1908.  134 Main Street, Racine, Wisconsin.  (Source:  Racine, Wisconsin City Directory, 1914)

We, the undersigned butchers of the City of Racine, hereby agree to keep our places of business closed Sundays from and after December 2, 1899 until April 1, 1900.
George A. Hansche
A.J. Scheckler
(additional names not listed because they are not relavent to Scheckler)
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal November 29, 1899)

Architect Flegel has just completed plans for remodeling 1313 and 1315 Village Street, store, into modern flats for A.J. Scheckler.
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal August 9, 1905)


"Before leaving Germany, Frederick J. Hansche was married to Miss Fredricka Tigges and to them were born six children:
George, who is living in Polk County, Wisconsin
Minnie, the wife of A.J. Scheckler, a resident of Racine
Emma, deceased
Alfred J.
Samuel H.
Eda, the wife of P.J. Meyers of Racine"**see below
(Source:  Racine, Belle City of the Lakes, Published by S.J. Clark, Chicago, 1916)


A.J. Scheckler is Offered $18,000 for Property
It was reported this  morning that A.J. Scheckler, owner of the old Star Mill property, corner of Main and Second Streets, had been offered $18,000 for the property.  Mr. Scheckler was called up by telephone and admitted that an offer was made for the building, but he refused to tell by whom, or what was offered.  He further said that the property was not for sale.  The belief prevails that the Hamilton-Beach Co. are the parties who made the offer.  The company is looking for a central location and in case they secure it intend to erect a modern factory building.
(Source:  Racine Daily News, publication date August 18, 1911)

For Rent: One or two floors of the old Star Mill, suitable for factory purposes or wholesale house.  Will rent all four floors.  Good basement.  Inquire A.J. Scheckler, 1301 Villa Street
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal)


About Carl Scheckler
"In 1859 Mr. Rudolph Hansche was married to Miss Anna Seorgel and they had nine children:
Sophia, the wife of Norbert Brabher of Mt. Pleasant
Eliza (Mrs. William Piper
George, married Lucy Olle
Fred William
Katherine who married Anton Lund, living in Mt. Pleasant,
William J. married and resides in Racine County
Clara, married Carl Scheckler and resides in Kenosha County
Lottie
Ernest who married Marie Jorgensen"
(Source:  Racine, Belle City of the Lakes, S.J. Clark, Chicago 1916)

About Ernest Scheckler
"William C. Hansche was united in marriage in 1860 to Miss Mary Heck.  Five children were born to this union:
William F.
Fred
Louis
Katie who married Ernest Scheckler
Sophia who married Augustus J. Piper"
(Source:  Racine, Belle City of the Lake, S.J. Clark, Chicago, 1916)

About Edward Scheckler
Mrs. Edward Scheckler, Lake Shore Road, entertained a few friends at tea at her home yesterday afternoon complimentary to her sister, Miss Mary Rhodes, who is leaving for Madison soon to continue her studies at the University of  Wisconsin.  Tea was served at 5:00 o'clock.  Mrs. Scheckler poured.
(Source:  Racine Journal Sept 6, 1929)

About John Sheckler (note spelling on this document)
"For twenty-seven years John Sheckler was actively identified with farming interests in Racine county, where he took up his abode in 1856.  He was born in Germany in 1836 and after acquiring a common school education in that country came to the United States at the age of twenty years, hoping that might enjoy and benefit by some of the advantages which he heard were offered in the new world to young men of enterprise and industry.  He made his way at once to the county and took up the occupation of farming, in which he was actively engaged to the time of his demise, making his home in Mt. Pleasant township, where he brought his fields to a high state of cultivation, transforming his land into a rich and productive tract.
In 1859 Mr. Scheckler was married to Miss Elizabeth Hansche, a daughter of Ernest and Kathrina Hansche, who were early settlers of this county.  Mr. and Mrs. Sheckler became the parents of seven children, namely:  Ernest, Fred, Elizabeth, John, Minnie, William and George.  In his political views Mr. Sheckler was a Republican, supporting the party from the time that he became a naturalized American citizen.  His religious faith was evidenced in his membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church.  He was a believer in the public school system and for three years served on the school board, doing everything in his power to make the school in his district one which would be of value in preparing young people for life's practical and responsible duties.  He died on the 2d of January 1883, at the comparatively early age of forty-seven years, but left a family to continue the good work which he had begun.
(Source:  Racine:  Belle City of the Lakes and Racine County, Fanny Stone, Sup Editor, S.J. Clark Publishing Co., 1916)

William Scheckler Photo

William Scheckler
(Source:  Photo by Bailey Family Tree public site on Ancestry.com)

About Clara Hansche Scheckler
The Wisconsin Birth and Christenings Index 1826-1908 for Albert Wesley Scheckler, born October 22, 1903, lists his father as Carl Scheckler and mother as Clara Hansche Scheckler.
Clara's Family:
Father: Eberhard Rudolph Hansche and mother Anna Soergel of Mt. Pleasant.  Children are:
Sophia born about 1860.  Married Norbert Grabher of Mt. Pleasant.
Eliza born about 1861.  Married William Piper.
George born about 1862.  Married Lucy Olle.
Fredrick Wilhelm born about 1863
Katherine.  Married Anton Lund of Mt. Pleasant.
William Jacob born about 1867.  Resides in Racine County.
Clara Helena born about 1868.  Married Carl Scheckler
Charlette (Lotte) born about 1870
Ernst Rudolph born about 1873.  Married Marie Jorgensen.
(Source for Rudolph Hansche:  Racine Belle City of the Lakes, published S.J. Clark, Chicago 1916)

Thomas

Nicholas and Susanna Anne Zirbes Thomas
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Edwin "Red" and Marcella Thomas Mueller)

The Nicholas Thomas Barn
The road in front of the barn is an unpaved Wood Road.  The view is looking toward the west.  The barn was built without a nail and when the decision was made to take the barn down, it was so structurally sound that the barn could not be demolished; it had to be burned.
The small addition to the left of the barn was a milk house that had a well in it that provided water in the barn for the cattle.  When the barn was taken down, lots were created for three homes.  The well inside the old milk house served all three homes when they were built.  Today, the well cap is inside the wishing well on the front front lawn and can be seem today.
(Source:  Original photo courtesy of the Robert Thomas Family.  Copyright 2012.  All Rights Reserved.)

Nicholas Thomas

Nicholas Thomas is a self-made man whose business record is most creditable, being characterized by marked devotion to duty, by indefatigable industry and unfaltering perseverance.  Whatever success he has achieved is attributable entirely to his own efforts.  He now lives on Section 1, Somers Township, where he has a well developed farm property from which he is deriving a substantial annual income.

He was born in Kenosha County, March 9, 1855, a son of Peter Thomas, who was one of the early settlers in Paris, Grant, Wisconsin.  At the usual age he entered the common schools and therein pursued his studies until he reached the age of fifteen years, after which he concentrated his efforts upon agricultural pursuits on his father’s old homestead until the death of the father.  He has since purchased two hundred and forty acres of land which is rich and productive and upon this farm, which is situated on Section 1, Somers, Township, he still makes his home.  His labors have wrought a marked transformation in the appearance of the place, for he has added many improvements and has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation.

In 1878 Mr. Thomas was united in marriage to Miss Susanna Anne Zirbes, who passed away August 17, 1900 in Somers, Wisconsin.  They became the parents of six children, as follows:  Frank, who wedded Miss Sadie Blondy, by whom he has three children; George, who married Magdalene (Lena) Feest and has four children: Joseph, who wedded Miss Bertha Schuster; Will, who married Theresa Weyers; Bert, who married Miss Gretchen Seftig and has one child; and Paul, at home.  There are also eleven grandchildren.  For his second wife Nicholas Thomas chose Bertha Blondy, who he wedded in 1902.  The family are communicants of St. George’s Catholic Church.

While in his political views Mr. Thomas is a Democrat, he does not hold strictly to party lines at local elections where no issue is involved.  He has filled the office of Town of Somers Supervisor and for eleven years was School Treasurer.  He neglects no duty of a public character and at the same time finds ample opportunity for his private business interests.  In addition to his agricultural pursuits he has for fifteen years been a Director of the Town Insurance Company.  He certainly deserves great credit for what he has accomplished.  When twenty-one years of age he was working for his mother at a salary of two hundred dollars per year.  Since then his steady progress has brought him to a position among the prosperous and representative agriculturists of Somers Township.

(Source:  City and County of Kenosha, Wisconsin, A Record of Settlement, Vol. II, pages 544-545, Frank H. Lyman, Chicago, The S.J. Clark Publishing Co, 1916)





Roy, Burt, Frank, Bob, and Saddie Thomas
(Source:  Photo courtesy of the Robert Thomas Family)

Copy of Original Land Cert #18534 where Nicholas Thomas purchased 120 acres from the U.S. Government on 4/24/1820
(Source:  U.S. Bueau of Land Management)
Click on document for larger view.



Copy of Original Land Cert #19048  where Nicholas Thomas purchased 40 acres from the U.S. Government on 4/24/1820
(Source: U.S. Bueau of Land Management)
Click on document for larger view.

Partial 1877 Somers Township map
See two of the Nicholas Thomas parcels.

Susan Thomas
"Susan Thomas, the beloved wife of Nicholas Thomas, died yesterday at her home in the Town of Somers, Kenosha County, of tuberculosis, aged 45 years.  Six sons and one daughter survive her, besides three brothers, Michael, William and Joseph Zirbes, and two daughters, Mrs. M. Wagner and Miss Lizzie Zirbes, all residents of Racine.  The funeral will be held from the St. Mary's Church, Racine, Monday morning at 10 o'clock."
(Source:  Racine Daily August 18, 1900)

In The News
"More than 100 friends and relatives gathered at the home of Mrs. George P. Thomas on the Wood Road, Sunday to meet two of her sons home on furlough.  They are Pfc. Joseph Thomas, hospitalized at the New Brooke hospital, Ft. Sam Houston, Texas, and Pvt. Jerome Thomas, from Camp Hood, Texas.  Pvt. Jerome Thomas left Thursday night to report to Camp O' Dare, Oregon.
(Source:  Racine Journal Sept. 27, 1945)

Beix



Partial 1887 Somers Township Map, Kenosha County
Section 1, J. Beix parcel

 John Beix
Mr. Beix (also known to be spelled Biex) was born January 8, 1814 in Albaxen, Hoster, Nordrhein-West Falen, Germany.  His wife name was Gertrude Christmann, born in 1834 in Udelhoven, Euskirchen, Nordrhein, West Falen, Germany.  Miss Christmann departed for America from Antwerp, Belgium and arrived at the Port of New York on September 12, 1845.  Mr. Beix married Miss Christmann on October 30, 1853.
Twelve children were born of this union:
John B. 1854
Mary 1856
Henry 1857
Loresa (Louise) 1859
Ann (Anna Mary) 1861
Agnese 1863
William 1864
Sophia 1865
Elizabeth 1868
Christine 1869
Frank 1871
Joseph 1875
Mrs. John (Gertrude) Beix died in 1875 and Mr. Beix died February 19, 1895.  Parcels of the farm were distributed to his sons, Frank (owned 40 acres in Section 6-West of Somers Township), Henry (later own the Section 1 parcel), John, and William.
(Source:  U.S. Federal Census)

Research "Thelen" in this blog for more information of Beix/Biex.

Wisconsin Cheese Production

Production of Cheese Doubled

Wisconsin Shows Remarkable Growth in Dairying -- Leads in Production of Foreign Cheese - - Important Bulletin Issued by University of Wisconsin

       One hundred and ten million pounds of cheese were made in Wisconsin last year, almost twice as much as was produced five years ago, according to the University of Wisconsin agricultural experiment station bulletin on "The development of factory dairying in Wisconsin," which has just been prepared by Professor H.L. Russell of the Wisconsin college of agriculture and U.S. Baer, Assistant Dairy and Food commissioner.
       Besides the increase in production from 60,000,000 pounds of cheese in 1900 to 110,000,000 pounds in 1905, the statistics show the addition of 118 new cheese factories, or nearly 40 new factories each year.
       The amount of butter manufactured in creameries of the state has increased 60 percent in the past five years, the figures showing 55,000,000 pounds for 1900 and 88,500,000 pounds in 1905.  The butter made on farms has grown from 25,000,000 pounds in 1900 to 34,500,000 pounds in 1905; an increase of 38 percent.  It is evident from this that factory dairying is increasing relatively faster than the home production of the farms.  The bulletin shows that the factory growth is going on rapidly throughout almost all regions of the state.

Central Wisconsin Booms
       The most vigorous factory development during the last five years is shown to have been in central Wisconsin.  In Shawano, Oconto, Waupaca, Portage, Wood, Marathon, Clark, Eau Claire, Chippewa and Barron, the ten counties located in the central part of the state, the number of cheese factories has grown from 141 to 206, an increase of 65 and the number of creameries from 121 to 191, an increase of 70.  By virtue of its natural advantages this new dairy portion of central Wisconsin is peculiarly adapted to dairying.  Undoubtedly a prominent factor of the development of this region has been the introduction of the small landowner, generally of foreign birth.  In developing their little clearings in the cut-over land, these farmers have taken up dairying, to which the country is well adapted, rather than the raising of grain or other agricultural products.  The most phenomenal growth of the cheese industry is to be noted in Shawano county, where the number of cheese factories has increased from 14 in 1900 to 56 in 1905, an addition of 42, or 300 per cent.

Increase in Swiss Cheese
       The most distinctive area, because of its rapid growth as well as of the character of its product, is the region of the Swiss cheese industry in southern Wisconsin.  Centering originally in Green County, it has extended rapidly to Iowa, Lafayette, Dane and Rock Counties.  The most remarkable increase has been in these surrounding counties, in which the factories have increased in the last five years from 183 to 301, while the estimated factory output of Swiss cheese approximates 15,000,000 pounds.

Richland Cheddar Region
       The cheddar cheese industry in the western portion of the state continues to center in Richland county, where it has been developing for years, but the success there attained has led to the extension of this cheddar cheese section into western Sauk, southern Vernon, and northern Iowa counties.  These counties stand out prominently as a dairy area, and the growth of the industry is emphasized by a comparison with surrounding counties, like Crawford, western Vernon, and Columbia, in which no apparent factory development is occurring.

Lake Shore Counties Lead
        The most extensive cheddar region of the state consists of the lake shore counties, where the industry was originally established, and where the extension of it has been continuous.  Although the distinctly lake shore counties, like Kewaunee, Manitowoc, and Sheboygan, seems to have reached their maximum factory development, the boundaries of this cheese belt are being steadily pushed toward the interior, especially toward the more newly settled regions northward.  It is highly probable that the lake shore cheese belt, to which should now be added Shawano county, will push westward and northward into Langlade, Oconto, and Marathon counties.  Indeed in Marathon county already cheese interests are paramount.

Brick Cheese District
       Wisconsin has two centers in which foreign cheese is extensively made.  Beside the Green county district where Swiss and Limburger are manufactured, there is a large and developing area with Dodge county as its center in which brick cheese is made n large quantities.  The manufacture of this peculiar type of cheese began in Dodge county, bit is now extending northward into Fond du Lac and eastward into Washington counties.  The rapid growth of the cheese interests n this area is shown by the fact that the cheese factories in Dodge county alone have increased in the last five years from 102 to 120.  This district in conjunction with the Swiss cheese section in the southern part of the state, makes Wisconsin the foremost state of the union in the manufacture of foreign cheese.
(Source:  Racine Daily publish date November 2, 1906)

Toase

Henry Toase was born in Lancashire, England about 1798.  He came to America in May of 1846.  He was married to Miss Mary Croft, daughter of John and Dorothy Croft.  They had a son, William, and a daughter Mary Ann.  They lived in Mt. Pleasant Township, Racine County.  Henry died December 10, 1868.  Mary (called Ann) married again to George Haigh, a recent widower, on July 16, 1871 in Racine County.  Mary died on September 2, 1893.  Both Henry and Mary are buried at Sylvania Cemetery.


William Toase

William Toase funeral photo
(Photo courtesy of Jim Smith)

Children of Henry and Mary: William Toase. 

Born April 24, 1836 at Lancashire, England, William Toase married Sarah Maria Longwell who was born December 2, 1840 at Yorkshire, England.  Sarah was the daughter of Hugh and Letta Maria Longwell of Somers Township.  William registered for the Civil War in June 1863. He was very musical and organized many programs in the community.  William adopted Sarah's sister's child May, who was born November 22, 1878, who married Horace Lee as his first wife on September 10, 1898.
Sarah died September 2, 1893 and William died March 28, 1903 of diabetes, which caused gangrene to set in.  Both are buried at Sylvania Cemetery.


Mary Ann (called Ann) Toase.  

Born July 15, 1838 in England.  She married William Drinkwater (his second wife) on December 26, 1860.  She died April 28, 1893.
(Source:  Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)


Partial 1887 Somers Township map, Kenosha County
Section 2 shows S. Toase.  Notice the Toase property is adjacent to 2 parcels owned by the Longwell's.

William Drinkwater

William Drinkwater funeral photo
William Drinkwater was born in Manchester, England November 1824.  He came to America with his parents in 1842 and settled in Sylvania,  Town of Yorkville, Racine County, Wisconsin.  On December 25, 1847, he married Elizabeth Smith in 1830 in England, daughter of Samuel Smith of the Town of Mt. Pleasant, Racine County. They had one daughter, Sarah Jane.  William left for the Gold Rush in California with Isaac Bowers, Richard Lee and Edward Lee.  While he was there, he received word that his wife was very ill and he should hurry home.  She died September 22, 1857 before he arrived home.  William married again on December 26, 1860 to Mary Ann Toase, daughter of Henry and Mary Toase.  Sarah remained with her grandparents and later became a schoolteacher.  William and Mary moved to a farm on the Racine-Kenosha County Line Road in the Town of Yorkville.  Mary Ann died April 28, 1893 and William died April 1902.
(Info from Sylvania Cemetery, Exploring Family Ties, by Mary Anne Culshaw Falk)
Photo taken by W.G. Powers in Union Grove, Wisconsin
(Photo courtesy of Jim Smith)

More About Toase
"The woods owned by the later William Toase was swept by a fire on Sunday afternoon supposed to have been started by some careless hunters.  The wind was in the south which fact alone saved the surrounding timber from one of the most disastrous fires that could take place.  As the flames worked against the wind the progress was not very rapid although several acres were burned over during the afternoon.  Help arrived in the evening when thru hard work the fire was extinguished."
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date November 13, 1903)


"Professor William Toase wishes to announce he has leased his farm and will devote his time to his profession.  Professor Toase is one of our ablest singing teachers.
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date November 17, 1898)


"Prof. William Toase, of the town of Mt. Pleasant, one of the oldest residents of the county and who has been a singing master for over 40 years, is dying at his home a few miles southwest of Corliss, of blood poisoning.  One of the professors feet has become so bad that it has nearly rotted off.
Prof. Toase is about 70 years old.  He came to this county over fifty-five years ago, his father having settled here when the county was only a wilderness.  Early in life the son took to music and became famous as a singer and organizer of singing classes.
Almost every singing class of note in Racine and Kenosha counties the professor has organized handled in competition.  He has also arranged hundreds of concerts and sang times without number at the annual reunions of the Racine Count Old Settlers' society and Kenosha County society.
He is, or was, a very large and powerful man, of fine appearance and known to every farmer in the southern section of Wisconsin.  His large number of friends will be pained to learn of his condition."
(Source:  Racine Journal March 27, 1903)


"At 2 o'clock this morning, William Toase, the oldest and best known singing master in Racine County, in fact Southern Wisconsin, died at his home of blood poisoning. Prof. Toase was born in Yorkshire, England, April 24, 1835, and with  his parents settled in Racine County when but 8 years old.  When the Civil War broke out, he enlisted September 21, 1864, in the First Wisconsin, Heavy Artillery, and was promoted to Corporal of his company, in a very short time.
Mr. Toase served three years and made a good brave soldier.  After the War he returned to his home and resumed the study and teaching of music, principally vocal lessons were given.  He possessed a remarkable clear voice and he was in demand at every gathering of note where a musical program was to be given. One daughter survives.  Funeral will take place on Monday afternoon at 1 o'clock from the house in Mt. Pleasant.
(Source:  Racine Journal)


"The adopted daughter, Mrs. Horace Lee, objects to Probating that of late Professor William Toase.  In the county court this morning objection was made to probating the will of the late Prof. Toase, of the town of Mt. Pleasant.  The objections were made by Mrs. Horace Lee, an adopted daughter, through her attorneys.
In his last will Prof. Toase, after the customary provisions for his funeral expenses, makes the following bequests: First - To Fanny Blackburn, his niece, he wills his farm of 80 acres, and all personal property except mentioned later.  To George Blackburn, his horse, cart, harnesses and carpenter tools.  Second - To his adopted daughter, Mrs. Horace Lee, $300 in cash, one bureau and its contents and other household goods. The farm willed to Mrs. Blackburn must not be sold for a period of ten years after his death.  Fanny Blackburn is named as the executrix.

The step-daughter objects to the allowance and probate of the instrument propounded by Fanny Blackburn as the last will and testament of William Toase, upon the following grounds:  First - That said instrument was not duly executed by the said William Toase, deceased, as his last will and testament in the manner provided by law.  Second - That at the time of said execution of said instrument, the said William Toase was not of sound mind and had not sufficient mental capacity to make a will.  Third - That the execution of said instrument was procured by undue influence exercised over and upon the said deceased by said Fanny Blackburn.

Some testimony was heard by Judge Heck, but the hearing was adjourned to May 14.  It is said that in the bureau willed to the nice there was found certificates of deposit amounting to $1,200.  The 80 acre farm is worth $50 per acre.
(Source: Racine Weekly, publication date May 8, 1903)

More About Ann Toase
Obituary for Wm. Drinkwater.
"Wm. Drinkwater died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Henry Blackburn on April 28, 1902, aged 77 years, of cancer of the throat, and was interred in the Sylvania Cemetery on May 1.
Mr. Drinkwater was one of the earliest settler in Racine County, having come to this county from England, in 1844.  He was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Smith in 1847, and her death occurred four years later, one child, now Mrs. M.J. Smith was born of this union.
In 1851 he traveled across the then hostile country to California in the search for gold, returning three years later, being only partly successful in the gold fields.  In 1858 he married again, his bride being Miss Ann Toase, sister of Prof. Wm. Toase of Sylvania.  They made their home on a farm northwest of Windsor Station, now Sylvania, for over twenty years, going from there to a large farm on the County Line Road, formerly owned by Jerry Slater.  Here several years ago, Mrs. Drinkwater died.
Eight children were the fruit of the second marriage, viz: Mrs. Albert (Mary Rosette) Murgatroyd, Mrs. Geo. (Fanny Ida) Blackburn who married a second time to Samuel Bowers, son of Isaac Bowers; Mrs. Henry (Ella May) Blackburn, Miss Cora Drinkwater who married Paul Wilkins in Milwaukee, and William H. married Laura Blaine, Charles who married Margaret Myers, James Abraham married Marie (Mame) Rasmussen, and Frank R. Drinkwater who ended up living in Atwater, Ohio.
(Source:  Racine Weekly May 13, 1902 and Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and the Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)


More About Drinkwater, Bowers, Lee, Myers
James Drinkwater was born in Manchester, England in 1798.  He married Jane Phelps and had a son William.  They came to America in 1842 and took up a government claim in Yorkville Township, Racine County.
William Drinkwater was born at Manchester, England on November 8, 1824.  He came to America with his parents in 1842 and settled at Sylvania.  On december 25, 1847 he married Elizabeth Smith who was born April 8, 1830 in England.  She was the daughter of Samuel Smith of Mt. Pleasant Township, Racine County.  They had one daughter Sarah Jane.
William left for the Gold Rush in California with Isaac Bowers and Richard Lee and Edward Lee.  While he was there, he received word that his wife was very ill and he should hurry home.  She died on Septembe 22, 1857 before he arrived home.  William married again on December 26, 1860 to Mary Ann Toase, daughter of Henry and Mary Toase.
Sarah remained with her grandparents and later became a schoolteacher.  William and Mary Ann had 8 children. 
(Source:  Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and the Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)

Baker

Myron A. Baker
Myron A Baker, the pioneer attorney, who is yet a successful and prominent practitioner of Kenosha, was born in Cuyahoga County, New York, October 26, 1839, and is the son of Elisha and Adeline R. (Bailey).  Bakers, natives of New York, were married there and reared a family of four children, all of whom are yet living, as follows:
Laura B., now the wife of A.T. Gould of Somers Township
Myron A. (this biography)
Frances A., wife if F.B. Dunning of Madison, Wisconsin
Warren E. a carpenter, living in Somers Township.

Elisha Baker was a cashier of a bank in Syracuse, New York for many years.  After coming to Wisconsin he engaged in farming.  Both Elisha and his wife's remains rest in the cemetery at Sylvania, Racine County where a monument has been erected to their memory.  Mr. Elisha Baker was a stanch Republican and took a very active part in local politics.  He held the office Township Clerk for several years and at the time of the uprising of New York against Canada was Colonel of the regiment called the Silver Grays.  He was a personal friend and schoolmate of Millard Filmore, also of William H. Seward, Secretary of State under President Lincoln.  A man of sterling worth and integrity he had a host of warm friends and his death was mourned by many.
We now take up the history of Myron A. Baker who is well and favorable known throughout this county.  he acquired his education in the district schools until sixteen years of age, when he entered the Kenosha schools, and finished the common branches of learning.  Having spent some time at the State University of Madison, he returned home and further continued his studies in the law office of E.W. Evans and later of J.J. Pettit, being admitted to the bar in May, 1862.
Some time previous he had completed his studies but his enlistment for service in the late war interfered with his admission to the bar.  He was one of the first volunteers in Wisconsin, becoming a member of company G, First Wisconsin Infantry, in April, 1861.  On a certain Sunday in that month on returning from church, he found a notice tacked on office stairs which told him that war had begun.  Hastily eating his dinner, he in company with Levi Howland started out in the county to find men to form a company and by Monday night, had secured forty recruits.
An incident or two connected with Mr. Baker's first experience as a soldier are especially interesting and go to show the metal of the man.  Before going to Milwaukee to be sworn into service he was told that he would not be accepted on account of a sightless eye.  Not wishing to be rejected from the service, he went to Chicago , had an oculist put in an eye and then repaired to Milwaukee where he was examined by a regular army examining officer who prided himself upon his skill in detecting blemishes.  Mr. Baker was examed, pronounced sound and sworn into service.  The facts in the case soon reached the examiner's ear, and he recalled Mr. Baker to ascertain if it could be possible.  On finding that it was even true, he replied that he could not reject him then and if he could he would not.  He realized that a man with such grit would make a better soldier than one with perfect vision lacking courage.
After being mustered into service the regiment remained at Milwaukee for four weeks, drilling and preparing for the field.  One evening several of the regimental officers drove out to try the boys on guard duty.  Of course the order to the guards was to let no one pass without giving the countersign.  After driving past several guards they came to Mr. Baker's beat and on his demanding the countersign they feigned to be indignant that a private should make a demand of this officer.  He was threatened with arrest and finally the Lieutenant Colonel alighted from the carriage and started to pass the line anyhow whereupon Mr. Baker promptly prodded him with his bayonet.  The countersign was then given and away the officers rode leaving threats behind them.  Mr. Baker began to have some misgivings as to whether he had done right, but somehow he felt that "no one" meant them.  The next morning two men were sent to arrest him and take him to headquarters.  What was his surprise to find that a banquet and complimentary speeches were in reserve for him instead of punishment.
Mr. Baker served for three months as a private and received a gunshot wound in the first battle in which he was engaged, and then returned to his home, remaining until 1864, when he went to Memphis, Tenn., the location of the Thirty-Third Wisconsin Infantry, to visit his brother Warren E. who served for three years as one of the boys in the blue.
Continuing there until after the fall of Vicksburg, Mr. Baker returned to Kenosha on the 6th of July, 1864 and resumed practice as a lawyer.  In 1866 he formed a partnership with Judge Webster, which connection continued until the election of Mr. Baker as District Attorney in 1870.  He served his full term, was re-elected and served for the two succeeding years.  After an interval of two years he was again elected District Attorney, which position he has held altogether for twelve years.  At the same time he continued the practice of law and in 1873 resumed partnership with Judge Webster, their business relations continuing until the death of the latter.
On July 1, 1868, Mr. Baker married Rachel F. Burgess, who was born in Salem Township, Kenosha County, on May 30, 1843, and is a daughter of Daniel C. and Sylvia (Maynard) Burgess.  Her parents were of English extraction and were natives of the Empire State. Emigrating westward in 1837, they became pioneer settlers of Kenosha County, where Mr. Burgess followed farming.  He died in 1876 and his wife in 1889.  He and his wife were prominent and highly respected people.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Baker have been born seven children:  Myron B. who is now a student in Harvard College, preparing for general literary work; Norman L. graduated from the Kenosha High School and is now studying law with this father; Robert V. was also graduated from the High School of Kenosha; Almeda L., Addie B., and Portia Eudora complete the family.
Socially Mr. Baker is a Knight Templar Mason, a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Knights of Pythias.

More About Elisha Baker
Elisha Baker was born about 1811 in the State of New York.  He married Adeline R. Bailey who was born in New York about 1814.  Adeline R. Bailey was the sister of Norman Bailey.  Their daughter Laura and son Myron (2nd Myron) were born in Owasco, Cayuga County, New York.  Elisha was a cashier in a bank in Syracuse, New York for many years.  He was a captain in the New York state militia.  He came to Wisconsin in 1838 and became a farmer in Paris Township and owned an additional 40 acres in Somers Township, Section 7 West.
Two children were born in Wisconsin:  Frances A. (Abigail) and Warren E.
Elisha died on May 6, 1857.  His wife died June, 1889.  Both are buried in Sylvania Cemetery.  There is no stone with her name on it anymore.  It is not known who Deborah Baker was, this stone is almost illegible, and it could be Elisha's mother, because she came West with the Baker family.
Elisha's father was a Revolutionary War solider and died in New York.  His mother Lois came West and died in Kenosha County.  Adaline's father also served in the Revolutionary War.  Mr. Bailey married Abigail Price who came to Wisconsin and died in Kenosha County.  Abigail (Price) Bailey, mother of Adaline, could also be buried here.  She lived with her daughter on the farm in Parish Township.  She died on April 13, 1866 at the age of 65.

1861 Partial map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
See Section 7 - lower left - 40 acres of Baker.
Click on map to view larger.

Varney and Shepard

Nathan F. Varney
Nathan F. Varney was born in Vermont on October 7, 1802.  His wife Mary was born in Vermont on January 20, 1805.  The Varney's evidently came to Wisconsin by way of Illinois because a daughter was born there about 1841.  Nathan Varney settled in Section 5 of Somers (see two parcels on map below).  Nathan F. Varney died on April 1, 1872 and his wife Mary on June 6, 1888.  The are buried at Sylvania Cemetery.
Known Children of Nathan F. and Mary Varney:
Mary Adelaide.  Born March 1835 in Vermont.  Married Chester C. Shepard, son of Reuben and Sarah Shepard on February 22, 1853 in Kenosha County.  Died August 27, 1857 at the age of 22, possibly in childbirth.  Left one son, Gaylord R. Shepard.
Ann Marah.  Born about 1841 in Illinois.  Died March 1860.  Buried in Sylvania Cemetery.
Helen A.  Born January 2, 1846 in Wisconsin.  Died February 6, 1870.  Buried Sylvania Cemetery.
Frank George.  Born 1846 in Wisconsin.  Died 1864.  Veteran Gravesite "U.S. Army Civil War" at Sylvania Cemetery.   Possibly a twin to Helen A.
Other
Rhoda Linsley Bean, Mary Varney's mother, lived with the Varney family ever since they came to Wisconsin.  Rhoda is buried at Sylvania Cemetery.  She died November 8, 1861 at the age of 87.

1861 Partial Map of  Somers Township, Kenosha County
Two 40 acre parcels owned by Varney in Section 5

About Gaylord Shepard
Gaylord R. Shepard was born On January 16, 1854 in Kenosha County.  He was raised by Nathan Varney, his grandfather.  Gaylord's mother died when she was 22.  See above.
Gaylord farmed in Somers Township and Mt. Pleasant in Racine County.  On June 28, 1880, Gaylord married R. (Rowena) Estella Clemons (also known as Estella Rowenta or Stella R.), who was born April 11, 1854.  She was the daughter of Hosea Clemons.  Estella died on March 29, 1909.  Gaylord married again to Emma N.  He died on June 26, 1928.  Gaylord and his two wives are buried in Mound Cemetery, Racine.
(Source: Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and the Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)

The US 1880 Census shows Mary, Gaylord's grandmother, lived with him on the farm in Somers.
The US 1900 Census shows that Gaylord lived in Racine with his wife, Stella R., his children: Helen who was born May, 1883 and Chester who was born May, 1887.

Velma Shephard
Mr. and Mrs. Gaylord Shepard of Somers Township, suffered a sad bereavement when their beautiful little girl Velma died on the evening of November 4, 1895.  The discovery of the fatal disease, tuberculosis of the spine was so sudden and its development so speedy that there was short time for reconciliation to her death.  She was only 3 years old, but she had the rightful place in their loving hearts of an immortal personality, full of promise and hope in the possibilities of magnificent attainments.  Their loving plans and purposes for her life in this world have been thwarted, but she herself only passed into the spiritual realm of activity.  The services occurred at the home Wednesday morning November 6 and with a following of many relatives and friends.  She was taken to Oakwood Cemetery to be buried.
(Source:  Racine Weekly Journal, November 14, 1895) 

1908 Partial Map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
Gaylord Shepard parcels
Section 5 and Section 4

More About The Shepard Family
March 2, 1899 Racine Journal
"Gaylord Shepard is taking treatments at a hospital in Chicago.  Mr. Shepard has suffered with rheumatism for some time."

June 15, 1899 Racine Journal
"Friday evening of this week the Epworth League will give a strawberry festival at the home of Mr. and Mrs. F.R. Shepard."

June 21, 1899 Racine Daily
"The lawn festival given at the home of Mr. F.R. Shepard on Friday evening was a success in every way, there being about 125 people present."

January 13, 1898 Racine Journal
"The Pike Grove Bible society held their annual meeting at the M.E. Church.  Officers were elected.  G.R., Vice President."

July 19, 1899
"Chester Shepard was kicked by a colt Monday evening but received no serious results."

September 21, 1899 Racine Journal
"Gaylord R. Shepard having rented his farm will sell his stock, farm implements, etc. at auction on Friday of this week."

About Chester C. Shepard
Chester C. Shepard was a well known farmer of Bristol Township and gained a gratifying measure of success in his chosen occupation.  A native of Oswego County, New York, he was born on the 14th of January 1830, of the marriage of Reuben and Sarah (Whitcomb) Shepard, who removed with their family to Racine, Wisconsin, in 1844.  Our subject received a good common school education in New York, and as his father died a short time after the family came to Wisconsin he early assumed a man's responsibilities.  He farmed for a short time in Racine County but subsequently came to Kenosha County, where he purchased forty acres of land.  He added to his holdings as his resources increased and continued to follow agricultural pursuits until 1906.  He then removed to Bristol, where he passed away January 27, 1907.  He was not only an industrious and practical farmer but was also a man of good business ability and so managed his affairs that he accumulated more than a competence.
In 1852 Mr. Shepard was united in marriage to Miss Adelaide Varney, by whom they had a son, Gaylord, who resides in Racine and is married and has two children, Helen and Chester.  Mrs. Shepard died in 1856, and eight years later Mr. Shepard married Miss Agnes Carver, and to this union three children were born, namely: Edwin, a resident of Kenosha, who is married and has two daughters; Will, of Spokane, Washington, who is also married and has two children; and George.
Mr. Shepard was a stanch Republican and served acceptably as a member of the school board.  His religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his daily life was guided by the teachings of Christianity.
George Shepard, who was born in Bristol Township on the 30th of December, 1867, attended the common schools until he was eighteen years of age, and then continued his education in the Whitewater Normal School at Whitewater.  After putting aside his textbooks he returned to the home farm and has since devoted his time to its operation.  He has erected a fine modern home, uses up to date machinery in his work and is progressive in his methods.  He is generally recognized as one of the prosperous farmers of the county and has found agricultural work both profitable and congenial.  On June 24, 1896, he was united in marriage to Miss Grace Gunter, a daughter of William and Emily Gunter.  In politics he is independent and his religious faith is that of the Congregational Church.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha Record of Settlement by Frank h. Lyman, Vol II, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

About Reuben Shepard
(Although Reuben Shepard did not live in Somers, information is included here for family research purposes because Reuben Shepard was Chester C. Shepard's father, Mary Varney's father-in-law.)

Reuben Shepard was born in New York in 1804.  He was married to Sarah Whitcomb who was born in 1807 in New York state.  She was the daughter of Eli and Ruth Whitcomb.
Six of their children were born in Oswego Co., New York.  This family came to Wisconsin in 1844.  Their son, Francis was born in Wisconsin in 1845.  The Shepards lived in the SW quarter of Section 32, Mt. Pleasant Township, Racine County. 
Reuben Shepard died on June 12, 1850 and is buried at Sylvania Cemetery.  his wife Sarah married again to Theodore Woodworth on January 25, 1853.  Theodore was a carpenter and joiner from Bristol Township.  After Reuben died, his son Chester C. Shepard seems to have occupied his farm, later acquiring more land in Paris Township, Kenosha County.
Children of Reuben and Sarah Whitcomb Shepard:
Chester C. Shepard.  Born January 14, 1830 in Oswego Co., New York.  Married Mary Adalaide Varney, daughter of Nathan F. and Mary Varney at the Varney home in Somers Township on February 22, 1853.  The were married by the Rev. Ebenezer Washburn of the M.E. Church of Kellogg's Corners.  Mary Varney Shepard died on August 27, 1857, possible in childbirth.  She is buried at Sylvania Cemetery.  Chester and Mary had a son, Gaylord, who was born January 16, 1854.  He was raised by Mary's parents, Nathan and Mary Varney.  Chester Shepard married again in 1864 to Agnes Carver and had three more children:  Edwin, Will and George.  Chester died at Bristol in Kenosha County on January 27, 1907 and is buried at North Bristol Cemetery.
Sarah Shepard.  Born about 1832 in Oswego Co., New York.  She died February 16, 1848.
Mary C. Shepard.  Born about 1835 in Oswego Co., New York.
Edward R. Shepard.  Born about 1839 in Oswego Co., New York.  He was in the Civil War and died at Nashville, Tenn. on March 25, 1865.
Marinda R. Shepard.  Born about 1841 is Oswego Co., New York.  She became a schoolteacher.  Married Gilbert O. Vincent, son of Owen and Elisa Vincent, on March 12, 1872 in Racine County.  Gilbert was a farmer from Bristol who was born in Onondega Co., New York.
Esther Shepard.  Born about 1843 in Oswego Co., New York, schoolteacher.
Francis Shepard.  Born about 1845.  Possibly in Racine County.  Died February 8, 1847 and buried at Sylvania Cemetery.
NOTE:  Ruth Whitcomb was the mother of Sarah (Mrs. Reuben) Shepard.  She was born in 1771 and died on March 27, 1849 at the age of 78.  She is buried at Sylvania Cemetery.  Ruth was the widow of Eli Whitcomb
(Source: Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and the Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)

Sniffin

Solomon Sniffin
Solomon Sniffin was born in Coxsackie, Green County, New York state about 1820.  He was the son of David Sniffin.  His wife was Sarah G. who was also born in New York state about 1819.  They came to Wisconsin with brother, Ebenezer and wife Almira in 1850.  Their farm was located in Somers Township, Section 6 West, also known as the Kellogg's Corners area.
Solomon and Sarah had eight children.  Solomon died January 27, 1883 and Sarah died on August 20, 1890.  Both are buried at Sylvania Cemetery.
Children of Solomon and Sarah Sniffin:
Kitty Sniffin.  Married Josiah D. Merritt, a lawyer from Chicago, Illinois on June 26, 1877 in Kenosha County.
Emma Sniffin.  Born October 29, 1850 in Somers Township.  Married Charles T. Coonley, son of Edward & Ulellia Coonley, on April 5, 1868 in Kenosha County.  He was born on April 10, 1846 at Stephensville, Greene County, New York.
Mary Ann J. Sniffin.  Born about 1853 in Somers Township.  Married Francis A. Hunter, son of John and Esther Hunter, on March 22, 1864 in Racine County.
Reuben N. Sniffin.  Born about 1855 in Somers Township.
Sarah E. Sniffin.  Born about 1861 in Somers Township.
C. Sniffin.  Born about 1668 in Somers Township.  Married Lydia J. (Raines) Watkins, daughter of John and Ellen Raines, on December 31, 1883 in Racine County.  He was a farm in Somers Township.
David L. Sniff.  Born about 1869 in Somers Township.

More About the Sniffin Family
Ebenezer Sniffin is included in this posting because he is Solomon's brother.  Ebenezer resided for a short time in Somers Township but eventually purchased a parcel in Mt. Pleasant, Racine County.
Ebenezer Sniffin married Almira J. Titus in the fall of 1846 in New York state.  They moved to Wisconsin with Solomon Sniffin, Ebenezer's brother.  They moved to Mt. Pleasant in 1866 where they farmed.  They had four children.  Almira died November 21, 1881 and Ebenezer died on September 7, 1886,  They bare buried at Sylvania Cemetery.
Children of Ebenizer and Almira:
Mary F. Sniffin.  Born February 27, 1850 in Green County, New York.  Married Rufus Sniffen, son of Reuben and Mary Ann Sniffin, in Kenosha County, on Spril 5, 1868.  He was a carpenter who was born in Coxsackie, Green County, New York.
Edwin S. Sniffin.  Born about 1853 in Somers Township.  Died at the age of 18 years on May 19, 1871. 
David Sniffin.  Born about 1854 in Somers Township.
Harvey E. Sniff.  Born about 1862 in Somers Township.
(Source:  Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)

1861 Partial Map of Somers Township, Kellogg's Corners area
Sniffin two (2) parcels in Section 6

Burgess, William E.

William E. Burgess
William E. Burgess (father) was born in Oswego County, New York in 1830.  His father, Benagh Burgess, who was a native of Vermont, came to what is now Kenosha County in 1836.  He engaged in business in a saw-mill located on Pike River, in what is now the Town of Somers.  He was engaged in this business until his death, in the spring of 1838.
As a young boy, William (son) entered the milling business with his father, which he followed up to 1850, when he went to farming.  Mr. William Burgess has been Assessor the Town of Somers for the past two years, and has held the office of Somers Town Treasurer.
He married, in the Town of Somers, in 1850, Miss Jane Leet, a native of the State of New York.  She was the daughter of one of Kenosha County's earliest settlers, Mr. Charles Leet, who died in Somers Feb. 11, 1874.
William and Jane (Leet) Burgess has ten children.  Mr. Burgess' mother, Amanda Burgess, formerly Miss Foster, is still living.  She was born in the State of New York in 1799.  Her father, Mr. Alfred Foster, was one of Kenosha's first settlers, having been one of the exploring party who came to Wisconsin in 1835.  He built the first saw mill, called Foster's Mill, located near Berryville on the Pike River.  Mr. Burgess is the owner of 247 acres of land.
(Source:  The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin, Chicago, Western Historical Company, 1879)


Obituary
Again the Death Angel has entered and taken from our midst one of our pioneer citizens.  William E. Burgess, aged 73 years, departed this life Saturday afternoon, April 9, after a long illness from lung trouble.  The deceased was a man who was honored and respected by all who know him.  In 1836, he with his parents came to Wisconsin.  October 17, 1850 he was united in marriage to Miss Jane Leet.  Eleven children were born to them, of which number ten survive: Mrs. Frank Cogswell and Charles of Salem; Mrs. Charles Buswell of Winona, Minnesota; Edward, William E. and Burdette of Chicago; Mrs. Clayton Rease of Portersville, California; Jennie, George and Robert of Somers.  Mrs. Burgess died June 3, 1901.  The family have the sympathy of the entire community in this their hour of sadness.  The funeral services were held from the Methodist Church Saturday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. Stockham.  Interment at Oakwood Cemetery.
(Source: Racine Journal April 17, 1903)

Partial 1887 Map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
Section 8 showing the W.E. Burgess parcel

More About the Burgess Family
See the "DeLong and Reas" posting in this blog.

DeLong and Reas



Horace De Long Farm
Somers Township, Section 6 west
(Source:  Illustrated Atlas of Racine and Kenosha County Wisconsin, H.O. Brown & Co., Publishers 1887)





1887 Partial Somers Township Map, Kenosha County
Section 6 DeLong parcel
Section 4 Reas parcel
Section 8 W.E. Burgess parcel

 George DeLong
George and Pamela (Farrington) DeLong arrived in Wisconsin from their native New York in 1838.  George DeLong was born on February 8, 1807 in New York and Pamelia (Farrington) DeLong was born on November 13, 1806.  They took up farming in Somers Township, Kellogg's Corner area, with their son Horace.  (George DeLong owned two parcels in Somers Township, Section 6,  in 1861: 46 acres and 135 acres). Pamela died on January 22, 1880 and George died on December 31, 1891.  Both are buried at Sylvania Cemetery.
Children (2) of George and Pamela DeLong:
Matilda DeLong born October 14, 1834 in Utica, New York.  She died September 16, 1905.
Horace T. DeLong born June 20, 1837 in Utica, New York.

Horace T. DeLong Family
Horace T. Delong came to Wisconsin with his parents in 1838. He married Miss Mary Reas, daughter of Peter Reas on October 13, 1861. Mary (Reas) DeLong died in Chicago, Illinois on February 14, 1927 and is buried at Graceland Cemetery in Racine, Wisconsin near her son, J. Edwin DeLong. It is not known where or when Horace died.
Children of Horace and Mary (Reas) DeLong:
Carrie DeLong born August 16, 1862 in Mt. Pleasant Township, married William E. Burgess, the son of William E. and Jane Leet Burgess, on December, 1891; died Dec. 8, 1941, buried in Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin.
James Edwin DeLong, buried at Graceland Cemetery, Racine.
Willard DeLong, died June 1870
Alton B. DeLong, buried at Graceland Cemetery, Racine.
(Source: Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)

Horace DeLong
(Source:  Photo by The Bush Family Tree, Ancestry.com)

Mary Reas DeLong
(Source:  Photo by The Bush Family Tree, Ancestry.com)

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

Peter Reas
(Source:  Photo by the Bush Family Tree, Ancestry.com)

Catherine Reas
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source: Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson. Copyright October 2011)

Catherine Reas
(Source:  Photo by The Bush Family Tree, Ancestry.com)

James Edwin Reas
(Source:  Photo by The Bush Family Tree, Ancestry.com)

About D.W. Reas

Daniel W. Rease was born in Cortland County, New York, in 1837.  His father, James Rease, came to Wisconsin in 1839, returned East, and in 1840, brought his family and settled in what is now Somers.  He engaged in farming until the death of his wife in 1846 when he engaged in a sign and house painting business until 1861.  He then went to California leaving Daniel to manage the farm.  Daniel also went to California but only remained a year when he returned to the farm in Somers.  He is a Member of the Presbyterian Church.  He married in Cortland County, New York in January 1865, Miss Maria A. Brooks, also a native of Cortland County,  They had three children:  Clayton B., born April 9, 1866; Harvey V. born Feb. 28, 1873; amd Edith M. Jan. 21, 1877.

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

Heidersdorf, Christian and William

1861 partial map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
Northwest Corner historically known as Kellogg's Corners
Location today I-94 and Racine Kenosha County Line Road
Heidersdorf parcel, Section 6 West, Somers Township

Heidersdorf, Christian
Christian Heidersdorf, Sr. was born in Prussia on Feb. 22, 1813.  He was the son of Conrad and Minnie (Griese) Heidersdorf, both of whom died in Germany.  He worked for several years in the mines in Germany.  After serving his time in the German Army, he came to America in June of 1849 with his brother, William.  They settled first at St. Louis, MO, but when an epidemic of Cholera broke out, they came to Wisconsin and settled in Somers Township.  This family farmed in Paris and Somers Townships.
Christian married Miss Margaret Myers on the Heidersdorf farm on February 15, 1857. Margaret was born December 29, 1836, in Hessen-Homburg, Germany. They had ten children:  5 boys and 5 girls.  Christian died May 5, 1878 and Margaret died September 18, 1913.  They are buried at Sylvania Cemetery.

Children of Christian and Margaret:
William E. married Alice Murray
Christian E. married Caroline Biehn, daughter of Heinrich and Margaret (Myer) Biehn
Frank C. is twin to Frances (Fanny)
Frances (Fanny) Emilia is twin to Frank.  Married Henry Biehn some of Heinrich & Margaret (Meyer) Biehn
Margarette (Maggie) married to William Coughlin.
Harriett (Hattie) is twin to Adaline.  Married Frank Holmes of Kellogg's Corners.
Adaline (Addie) is twin to Harriet.  Married Myron A. Gould, son of Amon T. and Laura (Baker) Gould.  They had four children:  Loren Jay, Max A., Gladys Tabbert, and Gernice, who died in infancy.  The lived in Somers Township.  Gould was a blacksmith at Somers Station.
Wilhelmina (Minnie).  Married to John Woodward.
Henry Walter married Elsa Augusta Alma Reck.
John.  Not married.
(Source:  Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and the Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)

More About Christian Heidersdorf
Christian Heidersdorf (deceased) was one of the excellent farmers and upright citizens of Somers  Township, where he had accumulated a large property through his own exertions.  He was born in Prussia, Germany, January 13, 1813.  He was the son of Conrad and Minnie (Griese) Heidersdorf, both of whom died in Germany.  They had two sons and two daughters, the one survivor being Lizetta, widow of Jacob Barnes, of Paris Township, Kenosha County.
Christian Heidersdorf received a good common school education in his youth, but as his father died when he was still small he was obliged to begin work at an early period in his life.  He worked for several years in the mines in Germany, and later became a mine superintendent.  After serving out his time in the regular army, according to the laws of his land, in 1851 he came to America and settled with his brother William at St. Louis.  When the cholera broke out there they left Missouri and came to Wisconsin, settling in Somers Township.  There he and his brother bought sixty-seven acres of  land, the same on which Mrs. Heidersdorf still lives, and here they built a small frame house.  Later Mr. Heidersdorf added fifty acres to his first land, and later bought ninety acres in Paris Township, and ten acres of woodland.  William never married but lived on this land until his death, and in this home our subject died two years later, in 1878.  He was a man much respected by all who knew him, kind in his family and helpful to his neighbors.  Politically he was a Republican.  He was a member of the Lutheran Church.
On February 14, 1857, on the farm on which his widow now resides, Mr. Heidersdorf was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Meier, who was born in Hessen-Homburg, Germany, December 29, 1835, daughter of Peter and Margaret (Rohr) Meier, the former of whom died in 1842, when his daughter Margaret was seven years old.  Mrs. Heidersdorf was reared in Germany, and came to America with her mother, two brothers and a sister when eighteen years old, and they settled in Parish Township, where the mother died aged eighty-nine years.  Her grandfather, Jacob Meier, was a farmer in Germany, and both he and wife died there, the parents of five sons and one daughter.  Mrs. Margaret (Rohr) Meier was a daughter of Anton and Elizabeth Rohr, farming people who lived to be about seventy-five years old.
To the marriage of Mr. and  Mrs. Heidersdorf were born five sons and five daughters:  William; Christian; Frank and Fannie, twins; Margaret; Hattie and Addie,  twins; Minnie; Henry; and John.
William, was a merchant at Chapin, Paris Township, married Alice Murray, and they have two children, Edna and Harold; Christian, a farmer in Yorkville married Caroline Biehn, and they have three children, Frances, Ethlyn and Alvin; Frank, unmarried, carries on a threshing machine business; Fannie married Henry Biehn of Paris Township and they have two children, Camilla and Howard; Margaret is the widow of William Coughlin of Paris Township, and has two children, Frances and Stanely; Hattie married Frank Holmes, of Yorkville and they have two sons, Ross and Roy; Addie married Myron Gould, a blacksmith of Somers Township, and they have three children, Jay, Max, and Gladys.  The others live at home with the mother in the old homestead in Somers Township.  They are members of the Lutheran Church.
(Source:  Biographical Record of Prominent and Representative Men of Racine and Kenosha County Wisconsin, J.H. Beers & Co., 1906)

More About Heidersdorf
"Frank Heidersdorf and his brother Chris, left for Rush Medical College in Chicago on Saturday morning.  The later had his right limb injured just above the knee several years and and it will be examined by the surgeons."
(Source:  Racine Journal, News Feb. 6, 1895)

"Frank C. Heidersdorf and the Frederick Brothers have purchased new corn shredders."
(Source:  Racine Journal, News Nov. 14, 1900)

"Heidersdorf Bros. made good use of the wind on Friday, sawing twelve cords of wood with their wind mill."
"Messrs. F.S. Heidersdorf and J. Biehn will attend the poultry show in Chicago this week."
"Mr. and Mrs. M.A. Gould of Somers visited at the home of her mother, Mrs. Heidersdorf last Sunday."
(Source:  Racine Journal ,January 23, 1902)

"Philip Horning, who is the employ of the W.E. Heidersdorf of Chapin, erected a Swanson windmill for the F.E. Holmes last week."
(Source:  Racine Journal, June 3, 1902)

"Heidersdorf Bros. will extend their telephone line to Heinry Biehn's this spring."
(Source:  Racine Journal, May 1, 1901)

"Henry Heidersdorf is the happy possessor of a new buggy."
"C.E. Heidersdorf and family attended the Biehm-Adams wedding in Paris on Wednesday."
(Source:  Racine Journal, May 24, 1900)

"Mr. and Mrs. William Coughlin and John Heidersdorf attended the social at Mr. and Mrs. R.W. Smith's of Union Grove last Thursday evening."
(Source:  Racine Journal, February 21, 1901)

"Heidersdorf Bros. shipped some fancy bronze turkeys to Gray, Iowa, the first of the week."
(Source:  Racine Journal, March 27, 1901)

"Henry Beihn, Frank C. Heidersdorf and Frank Holmes returned from a successful deer hunt in Northern Wisconsin on Saturday evening, bringing the evidence of their efforts in the form of three fine bucks."
(Source:  Racine Journal, November 19, 1901)

"Mr. Christian Heidersdorf of Somers moved to the Grimshaw house."
(Source:  Racine Journal ,March 30, 1905)

Sorenson, Peter



Partial 1899 Map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
Map focus is Kellogg's Corners area located in the Northwest section of Somers.
Today's location is I-94 and Racine-Kenosha County Line Road.

Peter J. Sorenson
Peter J. Sorenson was born in Denmark on November 10, 1858.  He immigrated to America in 1878 (US Census 1910).He was married in 1887 (US Census 1900) Miss Christina Johnson who was born August 27, 1865 in Denmark.  Peter and Christina had three daughters and one son.  See the Sorenson parcel in Section 6 on map above.
According to Ella Sorenson's obituary (Peter's daughter), the house on the Sorenson farm was built in 1837 and was the original parsonage for the Kellogg's Corners Methodist Church.  Peter died on May 25, 1923 and Christina died on June 24, 1935.  They and their three daughters are buried at Sylvania Cemetery.
Children of Peter and Christina:
Amelia.  Born June 12, 1887.  Died September 12, 1887.  Twin to sister Ella.
Ella.  Born June 12, 1887.  Died November 12, 1989 in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Ida.  Born November 30, 1889.  Died August 12, 1953.
Raymond F. 

Inscription on Elizabeth Sorenson grave:
Born at Torpenholt Sjalland
February 3, 1872.  Died at Racine, Wisconsin June 12, 1895
(She may have been Peter's sister.  She was a dressmaker in Racine.)
(Source:  Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and the Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)


Sorenson "In the News"
Ray F. Sorenson, 1501 West Blvd. is in an excited and nervous state of mind today.  He asserts that masked men, on two occasions, have made threats against him unless he quit work on the farm of his father in Somers Township, Kenosha County.
This afternoon a Journal-News representative interviewed the young man and got his story of the treatment he has received at the hands of the mysterious individuals.
"My father," said Sorenson, "is at the Sunny Rest Sanitarian suffering from tuberculosis.  For the past two months I have been working on the farm solely to keep things going.  I never knew there was any objection to my being on the farm until about two weeks ago."
"I was driving from my home to the farm when an automobile was driven in front of my car and the highway blocked.  Two men, wearing masks, got out of the auto and walked to my car and warned me to leave the farm as my father was perfectly able to hire a man.  They said I should return to my family in Racine."
"Without further parley they re-entered their car.  I think there were two or more men in the machine at the time.  They drove off and I hurried to the farm and passed off the incident as a joke of the part of some one."
"This week, Wednesday night I drove in from the farm to my home and left for the farm about 11 o'clock p.m.  Shortly after I saw an automobile following me, but soon lost tract of it.  Arriving at the farm I drove the automobile into the garage and had just stepped out when two men, masked, one armed with a gun, confronted me.  The man with the gun shoved it against my ribs and ordered me to come with him, and said if I failed to leave the farm I must take the consequences."
:I replied that if I was to be forced off the farm I should be allowed to get my clothing.  They escorted me to the door of the house and then rushed me back to the auto and drove away.  I think I was in in the machine more than an hour and a half when they stopped, ordered me out and point out the way to Racine and again warned me not to return to the farm.  I arrived home at 3 o'clock Thursday morning.  I did not know any of the men and I cannot imagine what harm I am doing in working on my father's farm.  I do not know whether or not I shall return to the farm.  They did not threaten to kill me, but simply said if I continued to work there I must stand the consequences."
(Source:  Racine Journal April 14, 1922)