Breaid

John Breaid (name later changed to Braid)

John Breaid, who is engaged in general farming on Section 6, Somers Township, Kenosha County, has for forty-one years made his home in this locality. He was born near Edinburg, Scotland, November 20th, 1820. His father, Thomas Breaid, was also a native of that land and a man of superior intelligence, well educated.  By occupation he was a contractor.  He married Ellen Greig, also a native of Scotland and they crossed the Atlantic to America in 1853, joining our subject in Kenosha County, where they spent the remainder of their lives.

John Breaid was also well educated for the times and when a youth learned the flax dresser’s trade, which he followed for several years. He was married in Scotland in 1843, to Jane Whitelaw, daughter of John and Anna (Drummond) Whitelaw, who was born in Scotland. The young couple began their domestic life in that land but after several years Mr. Breaid came to America leaving his family behind. He arrived in New York in May, 1850, and by way of the Hudson River to Albany, Erie Canal to Buffalo, and the Great Lakes to Racine, he reached the state which has since been his home, in June of that year. Nearly all of his means had been exhausted in paying the expenses of his journey and he was willing to engage in any honest labor. He stopped for a short time with a Scotch family on the lake shore near Racine and worked by the day at anything he could do. By industry and economy he had saved enough to send for his family at the end of a year and Mrs. Breaid crossed the Atlantic with her three children, the oldest a lad of six and the youngest a child of eighteen months, joining her husband in the fall of 1851.
Mr. Breaid had built an humble dwelling for his wife and family in the shape of a log cabin, located in the town of Mt. Pleasant, Racine County, and they began life in the New World in true pioneer style. The husband and father engaged in cutting cord wood and also raised a few vegetables for the market. He there made his home for two years, during which time his financial condition was somewhat improved, after which he located on a farm on the county line, where was a comfortable home. He cleared and fenced about forty aces of land and upon that farm made his home for about three years; during which time he saved about $800. In Kenosha County we next find him after his purchased of 20 acres of land on Section 6, Somers Township. This was a timbered tract but with characteristic energy he began to clear and improve it and where once stood the monarchs of the forest were soon seen fields of waiving grain. From time to time he made additional purchases until he now has a valuable farm of one hundred acres, the greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation. It is improved with a commodious brick residence, an orchard, good barns, and all the other accessories of a model farm.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Breaid have been born seven sons and three daughters; Thomas, a railroad engineer, is married and resides in Savanna, Illinois; John is married and engages in merchandising in Waukesha, Wisconsin; Andrew was married and went to North Carolina, where he did an extensive business, shipping lumber to the North. He is now deceased. The three children just mentioned were born in Scotland and the remaining members of the family were born in Wisconsin. Katie is the wife of Charles Windsor, of Racine; Nellie is the wife of William Bose, a farmer of Kenosha County, James who is married and lives in Savanna, is also a railroad engineer; William died in infancy; George is a telegraph operator and real estate dealer of Chehalis, Washington; William, the second of that name is married and resides on the home farm; and Maggie (Margaret) is the wife of Chester Barrows, an agriculturist of Mt. Pleasant Township, Racine, Wisconsin.
Mr. and Mrs. Breaid are prominent members of the Methodist Church and in politics he is a stanch Republican. He has supported each Presidential candidate since casting his first vote for John C. Fremont, but has never sought or desired public office for himself. However, he served for two years as Assessor and has been an efficient member of the School Board for a number of years. In the earlier days, he and his family endured many hardships and privations but industry, perseverance and good management on the part of Mr. Breaid have secured him a comfortable competence and he is numbered among the well-do-do farmers in the community.
(Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Racine and Kenosha Counties. Lake City Publishing Co. Chicago. 1892. Text and Photo)

John Braid Bio

Lived in Section 6 (Berryville).  Born in Scotland in 1821.  Came to America in 1850 and located in Mt. Pleasant.  He remained there until 1855 when he removed to Kenosha County purchasing a farm, then very heavily timbered, which he cleared, having at present 75 acres under cultivation.  He was Assessor for the Town of Somers in 1869.  March 18, 1854, he married Miss Jane Whitley, a native of Scotland.  They have had ten children, nine still living.

(Source:  History of Racine and Kenosha Counties 1879)

More about the Breaid's

"Mrs. John Breaid, who has been very sick, was a little better this last week."

(Source:  Racine Journal publication date July 27, 1899)

"Mrs. Jane Breaid, wife of John Breaid, died at her home in Berryville at 11:30 last night.  Besides a husband she leaves three sons and five daughters, and a large number of relatives and friends to  mourn her loss.  The funeral will take place Friday afternoon at one o'clock from the house and the remains will be interred in Mound Cemetery, Racine."

(Source:  Racine Daily Journal publication date November 29, 1899)

"The funeral of Mrs. Breaid was held on Friday last at the residence.  The services were conducted by Rev. Coldstead after which the friends tenderly laid the aged form to rest in Mound Cemetery at Racine.  Mr. and Mrs. Breaid were among the first to settle at Berryville and have spent a long and useful life among us.  She leaves a host of friends, her husband, eight children, twenty-four grandchildren and one great-grandchild."

(Source:  Racine Journal publication date December 7, 1899)

About William Braid (spelling of named changed from Breaid)

Among the successful farmers of Somers Township is William Braid, who is operating the family homestead on Section 6.  He was born upon that farm on the 5th of October 1862, a son of John Braid, who birth occurred in King Horn, Scotland, on the 8th of November, 1820, and who received his education in his native country.  In 1850 he emigrated to the United States and located in Kenosha County where he worked at ditching and as a farm hand for two or three years.  He then rented land, which he cultivated for a similar period of time, and next bought seven acres of land in Somers Township, to which he added as he was able from time to time.  At his death, in 1904, his farm comprised one hundred acres.  He was united in marriage to Miss Jean Whitelaw and they became the parents of eight children.  Thomas, who married Mary Joerey and has four children, is a resident of Savannah, Illinois.  John, deceased, married Agnes Casey, who, with her four children, is living in Waukesha, Wisconsin.  Andrew married Olive Commander and both are deceased.  Their daughter married Lewis Markeson of Somers Township and has two children.  Katherine, who married Charles Wensing (Wensing family of Somers), deceased, has six children and resides in Racine.  Nellie married William F. Bose of Somers and they have five children.  James married and his wife passed away, leaving two children.  he resides in Milwaukee.  George, who is married and has one child, is a resident of Portland, Oregon.  William, of this review, is the youngest of the family.  The father, who is a stalwart Republican, served as a member of the School Board, was a member of the Town Board and also held the office of Road commissioner and proved very efficient in these capacities.  He was a member of the Presbyterian Church.  His wife preceded him in death two years, her demise occurring in 1902, and his in 1904.

William Braid attended the common schools until he was eighteen years of age, when he gave his entire attention to assisting in the operation of the farm.  He worked for his father at a wage of two hundred dollars a year until he attained his majority, when he purchased the homestead, which he has since operated on his own account.  The place comprises one hundred acres and is one of the well improved and valuable farms of Somers Township.  He is progressive in his methods and receives a good financial return from his land.

On the 13th of June, 1889, Mr. Braid was united in marriage to Miss Mary Sorensen, a daughter of Nels Sorensen.  Mr. and Mrs. Braid hava a son, Roy W., who is connected with an automobile tire manufacturing concern in Racine.  Mr. Braid is a stalwart Republican in politics and for ten or twelve years has been a member of the School Board.

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

Maurer

Partial 1877 Map of Somers Township
Section 22
J. Mauer (Maurer) parcel of 100 acres

John Maurer
John Maurer, one of the prosperous and progressive farmers of Somers Township, owns one hundred acres of excellent land and devotes his time and attention to its operation.  He was born in Germany in 1853 and his parents were Peter and Elizabeth (Meyer) Maurer, the former of whom passed away in the fatherland and is buried at Westbaum, that country.  The mother accompanied our subject to the United States and resided for many years in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, dying in 1908.  She is buried in St. George's Cemetery at Kenosha.
John Maurer spent his boyhood in the fatherland and until fourteen years of age devoted the greater part of his time to attending the common schools.  After finishing his education he worked for others for about two years but in 1868 emigrated with his mother to the United States, the voyage across the Atlantic taking twenty days.  They landed at New York city, whence they went to Chicago, and from that city they continued their journey to Addison, Illinois.  There Mr. Maurer engaged in farming for fourteen years, operating rented land, and during that time he carefully saved his money with the purpose of eventually purchasing a farm.  In 1882 he removed to Kenosha county, and purchased one hundred acres of Section 22 Somers Townships where he has since resided.  He has made many improvements upon the place and keeps everything in good condition, thus adding to the attractiveness upon the place and keeps everything in good condition.  He raises both grain and stock, and his well directed labors are rewarded by a good income.
In 1882 Mr. Maurer was united in marriage to Miss Katherine Kaulen, a daughter of Jacob and Katherine Kaulen.  To this union have been born seven children, names:  Stephen and John, both of whom are married and live in Kenosha; Elizabeth, at home; Joseph, who is deceased and is buried at St. George's Cemetery; Paul, who is married and is a resident of Kenosha; Margaret, who married John B. Schuenemann, Jr.; and Peter, who is assisting his father.
Mr. Maurer is a Democrat in his political belief but although he takes the interest of a good citizen in public affairs he has never been an aspirant for office.  He belongs to the Catholic Order of Foresters at Kenosha and is a communicant of St. George's Catholic Church.  His life has been an active and useful one, and he has not only gained financial prosperity but has also cooperated in the advancement of the interests of his community along various lines.  He is widely known and highly esteemed.
(Source: Kenosha City and County Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol II, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

Moran

1887 Partial Map of Somers Township
Section 12
D. Moran Est. parcel
Click on map for closer view.

Dominick Moran
Dominick Moran, was one of the pioneers of Kenosha  County, Wisconsin, arriving here in the '40s, and for many years he carried on agricultural pursuits in Somers Township.  He was widely known and his demise was the occasion of much sincere regret.
A native of County Mayo, Ireland, his birth occurred in 1819, and his education was that afforded by the common schools of the Emerald Isle.  He remained there for several years after he had attained his majority, but in 1842 or 1843 he emigrated to the U.S. and located in Kenosha County.  He became the owner of a tract of land and at once began the improvement of his place, which became in time one of the valuable farms of Somers Township.  When he reached this country he was empty handed, but his enterprise and sound judgement enabled him to gain more than a competence.
About 1857 Mr. Moran was married in Kenosha to Miss Margaret Cunnane, also a native of Ireland, and they became the parents of six children:  Bridget Louisa; James, who resides on the home place; Ellen, the wife of D. Toner, by whom she has three children; John; Mary, the deceased wife of Michael Daley, by whom she had two children; and Margaret, the deceased wife of John Sherry.
Mr. Moran was a stanch advocate of Democratic principles and supported that party loyally at the polls.  He was a member of the Temperance Society and attended the services at St. Mark's Roman Catholic Church.  He was a factor in the early development of the county, and his upright and useful life entitled him to a high place in the estimation of all who knew him.  He passed away May 11, 1874, and his community was the poorer because of his demise.
(Source:  Kenosha City and County Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol II, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

John Moran
John Moran, the second son of Dominick Moran, was born in Kenosha on the 10th of January 1863 and as a boy attended the common schools, continuing his education until he was fifteen years old.  He then concentrated his energies upon farm work, assisting his father until the latter's demise, and he is now operating the home farm in connection with his brother, James.  The place comprises seventy-three acres of rich land, and the buildings are modern and substantial.  He is recognized as one of the capable and prosperous farmers of his community and has never had occasion to regret his choice of an occupation.
Mr. Moran was married on the 31st day of July 1897 to Miss Theresa White, a daughter of Michael White, an old settler of this county.  To Mr. and Mrs. Moran were born two children, Robert and Walter, both of whom are attending school.  The wife and mother died on the 18th of December, 1903 and is buried in Kenosha.
Mr. Moran supports the Democratic party at the polls when national issues are involved but otherwise votes independently.  He was clerk of the school board for six years and has also served acceptable as Pathmaster.  His religious faith is that of the roman catholic church, and he is a communicant of St. James at Kenosha.  He has gained a gratifying measure of prosperity through his industry and careful attention to his farming operations and is highly respected throughout the county.
(Source: Kenosha City and County Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol II, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

"Funeral services for James Moran were held Tuesday at St, James church, Kenosha, with burial in St. James Cemetery.  The casket bearers were George P. Thomas, Frank Lichter, John F. Swartz, Edward Witschcber, William Thompson and Frank Feest."
(Source:  Racine Journal, June 23, 1934)

Broesch

Mathias H. Broesch, Jr.
Mathias H. Broesch, Jr., a native of Kenosha County, is engaged in farming on Section 13, Somers Township, and believes that the opportunities here offered the energetic man compare favorably with those to be found elsewhere.  he was born in the city of Kenosha on the 20th of February 1879, a son of Mathias Broesch, Sr.  The latter was born in the Rhine province of Prussia on the 23d of August, 1845.  His parents, John and Elizabeth (Forman) Broesch, passed their entire lives in the fatherland.  As a boy and youth he attended the common schools in Germany and after putting aside his textbooks gave his father the benefit of his labor until he was twenty-one years old.  He then served in the army for four years and was at the front during the entire Franco-Prussian war.  He conducted himself with such gallantry that he received three medals in recognition of his bravery.  He was wounded three times and there were none of the hardships of war that he did not experience.  In 1873 he came to the United States and located at Kenosha, Wisconsin, where he was employed in a malt house for five years.  He next purchased twenty-five acres of land in Somers Township and at once began to prepare it for cultivation.  Before he could operate the place it was necessary to grub out the stumps, and he made all of the improvements upon the place, erecting substantial buildings.  He has since resided upon that farm and has brought it to a high state of development.
On the 20th of May 1878 Mr. Broesch was united in marriage to Miss Mary Woever, a daughter of Phillip Woever and a native of Racine County.  Mr. and Mrs. Broesch have four children:  Mathias H., Jr.; Annie, the wife of Theodore Lucher of Racine, by whom she has three children; Elizabeth, who married John Klinkhammer and has two sons; and Henry, who married Katie Klinkhammer.
The father is a democrat and in religious faith is a Roman Catholic, belonging to St. George's Church.  When he came to the United States he had only twenty-five dollars capital but he was willing to work and possessed sound judgment and is now in excellent circumstances.
Mathias H. Broesch, Jr., attended the common schools of Kenosha until he was about twelve years of age and since that time has concentrated his energies upon farm work, with the exception of one winter which he spent in Milwaukee as an employee of the Beyers Manufacturing Company.  For a number of years he assisted his father but is now farming independently, owning twenty acres, and he has never had occasion to regret his choice of occupation, finding agricultural pursuits both congenial and profitable.
Mr. Broesch endorses the principles of the democratic party but votes independently when he believes that he can best further the general good by so doing.  He has served as Road Commissioner and takes a keen interest in everything pertaining to the public welfare.  He is a communicant of St. George's Roman Catholic Church and contributes to its support.  He is energetic and practical, and the success which he has gained as a farmer is well deserved.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol II, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

More About Broesch
"Mrs. M. Broesch entertained a company of relatives on Sunday afternoon.  Her guests included Mr. and Mrs. A. Thelen and Raymond Thelen and Mr. and Mrs. John Klinkhammer."
(Source:  Racine Journal publication dated August 24, 1921)

Mrs. Henry Broesch
"Mrs. Henry Broesch, Somers Township, age 71, passed away December 3, 1954.  Surviving are her husband, Henry; one son, Joseph T. of Somers; two sisters, Mrs. Veronica Mueller of Racine and Mrs. John Lichter of Somers; two brothers, Michael Klinkhammer of Burlington and Joseph Klinkhammer of Caledonia.  Interment in St. George's Cemetery, Kenosha."
(Source:  Racine Journal December 4, 1954)

Edquist

1908 partial map of Somers Township
Section 27, J. Equist parcel
Click on the map for a larger view.

John Edquist
John Edquist has been identified with general agricultural pursuits in Kenosha County for twenty-eight years and is now the owner of an excellent farm comprising one hundred and eleven acres on Section 27, Somers Township.  His birth occurred in Sweden on the 24th of February 1867 his parents being Gust and Mary Edquist, the latter of whom still survives and makes her home in Sweden.
In the acquirement on an education John Edquist attended the common schools of his native land until twelve years of age and subsequently worked for his father until he had attained the age of fifteen, after which he was employed by others.  In 1888, on attaining his majority, he crossed the Atlantic to the United States, landing in New York after a pleasant voyage.  He made his way at once into the interior of the country and took up his abode in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, where he has remained continuously to the present time.  During the first ten years of his residence in the United States he worked as a farm hand and then in 1899 bought a tract of eighty acres in Somers Township to which he has since added by purchase until the property now comprises one hundred and eleven acres of rich and productive land.  As the years have passed by he has won a gratifying measure of prosperity in the conduct of his agricultural interests and it is attributable entirely to his own well directed industry and unfaltering perseverance. 
In 1890 Mr. Edquist was united in marriage to Miss Clara Carlson, daughter of Fred Carolson.  They now have five children, namely: Arthur who wedded Miss Nellie Curvey; Ever, a resident of Kenosha; Roy, at home; Lila and Ethelyn, who are attending school.
Mr. Edquist is a Republican in his political views but does not consider himself bound by party ties at local elections, always supporting the candidate whom he believes best qualified.  His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Swedish Lutheran Church.  He was one of the organizers of the Order of Warsaw and is serving as its cashier.  The hope that led him to leave his native land and seek a home in the new world has been more than realized, for here he found the opportunities which he sought and through their utilization has won a place among the successful and representative citizens of his community.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol II, Chicago, The S.J. Clark Publishing Co. 1916)

1900 U.S. Federal Census
Household Head:  John Edquist
Birth Date:  Feb. 1867
Home in 1900:  Somers
Immigration Year:  April 1888, Port of New York
Marriage Year:  1891
Spouse:  Clara born about 1861
Son: Arthur born about 1893
Daughter: Eva born about 1895
Son: Roy born about 1896
Daughter: Lily born about 1900
Daughter: Lulah born about 1900
Daughter: Adaline W. born about 1906 (shown on 1910 Federal Census)

Feest

John Feest
John Feest, a well known agriculturist of Somers Township, owns and operated an excellently improved farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres on Section 12.  His birth occurred in Racine, Wisconsin, on the 4th of September 1856, his parents being Frank Mat and Frances (Hammer) Feest.  The father, who was born in Baden, Germany in 1819, attended the common schools until fourteen years of age and in 1844, when a young man of twenty-five years, crossed the Atlantic to the United States.  He resided in Toledo, Ohio, for a few years and subsequently made his way to Racine County, Wisconsin, spending the remainder of his life there and in Kenosha County.  For several years he was employed in the lumber yard of Murray & Kelley at Racine.  Though empty handed when he arrived in the new world, he wisely utilized his opportunities and eventually became a substantial and well to do citizen.  He gave his political allegiance to the democracy and attended Mt. Mary's Church in Racine.  His demise occurred on the 5th of May 1903, while his wife was called to her final rest on the 17th of February, 1907.  To them were born nine children, three of whom are deceased.  The surviving members of the family are Theresa, Katherine, Caroline, John, Frank, and Joseph.

John Feest was a pupil in the common schools until fourteen years of age but had begun work when a youth of about twelve.  In the winter time he frequently walked six miles from Racine in order to clear the brush and stumps from his father's farm.  General agricultural pursuits have claimed his time and energies throughout his entire business career and he now owns and cultivates a farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres in Section 12, Somers Township, which he has improved in a most creditable manner.  The well tilled fields annually yield golden harvests as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon them, and his present prosperity is the direct result of his industry, energy and perseverance.

On the 5th of May, 1885 Mr. Feest was united in marriage to Miss Magdalena Lotz, daughter of George Lotz and Maria Anna Mueller Lotz.  This union had five sons, namely: Frank, George, Sylvester, Joseph and Raymond.  Mr. Feest gives his political allegiance to the democracy and has served for one term as a member of the school board and has also been Pathmaster.  He is a devout communicant of St. George's Catholic Church.  His entire life has been spent in this part of the state and he has long enjoyed an enviable reputation as one of the substantial agriculturists and representative citizen of his community.
(Source:  Kenosha City and County Wisconsin Record of Settlement by Frank h. Lyman, Vol. II, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

1880 Federal U.S. Census
Home in 1880:  Somers
Mathias Feest:  Born about 1819
Birthplace:  Baden, Germany
Spouse Name:  Frances
Son:  John born about 1856
Son:  Frank born about 1857

1900 Federal U.S. Census
Home in 1900:  Somers
Head of Household:  John Feest born about 1857
Spouse Name:  Magdalina born about 1865
Son: Frank M. Feest, born about 1890
Son: George H. Feest, born about 1893
Son: Sylvester J., born about 1894
Son: Joseph L., born about 1897
Son: Raymond J., born about 1900
Mathias and Frances (father and mother) lived with family in 1900.

More About the Feest Family
Frank Matthias Feest, aged 84 years, died at his home in the Town of Somers, Kenosha County, where he had resided 32 years.  Before that, he lived in Racine twenty-five years, and occupied what was known as the Feest vegetable gardens on the north side of the river.  He was born in Germany, and was of the very earliest German residents.  There survives him four daughters and three sons.  The funeral will take place from St. Mary's Church at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning.
(Source:  Racine Journal publication date May 3, 1904)

One of the oldest residents of southeastern Wisconsin, Mrs. Francesca Feest, of Somers, passed away at her home in Kenosha County yesterday, aged 87 years.  Mrs. Feest came to Racine over fifty years ago, living for some time in this city, although then but a small cluster of houses marked the present site of Racine.  Later they moved to Kenosha County where she has since resided.  Deceased leaves three sons and four daughters, all well known residents of this community.  The funeral will be held at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning from St. Mary's Church.
(Source:  Racine Daily publication date February 17, 1908)

Mr. and Mrs. John Feest of Somers are celebrating their silver wedding day today.  Twenty-five years ago they were married at the St. Mary's Church of Racine by Rev. Father Alberts.  The young couple immediately left for Somers where they have lived ever since.  They are among the best known people in the county.  Mr. Feest is a progressive farmer and owns one of the finest farms in this section of the country.  Friends from Chicago, Milwaukee, Kenosha and Racine are assembled at the cozy farm house to assist in making the occasion one long to be remembered.  Many beautiful silver presents were given to the happy couple by their many friends.  Mr. and Mrs. Feest are still hale and hearty and confidently expect to be able to celebrate their golden wedding in twenty five years.
(Source:  Racine Daily publication date May 5, 1910)

"The George Feest family have sold their home on Berryville Road and bought a farm on Highway 43.  A farewell party was given by a number of neighbors.  A pot luck lunch was served a gift was given."
(Source:  Racine Journal Dec. 24, 1945)

Huck



1927 Map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
Section 12
J. Huck has two parcels
Click map for larger view

 Joseph Huck
Among the well-to-do and progressive farmers of Somers Township is Joseph Huck, whose birth occurred in Kenosha on the 21st of June, 1857.  His father, August Huck, was born in Alsace-Lorraine, then a part of France, on the 18th of August, 1829.  He received his education in the common schools and after putting aside his textbooks continued to reside in his native land for some time but in 1851 emigrated to Canada.
A year later he located in Kenosha, and for sixteen years he engaged in teaming in the city of Kenosha.  For six years he superintended the Mincenberger farm and at the end of that time purchased one hundred and thirty-four acres in Somers Township, where he has since resided.  He has carefully conserved the fertility of the soil, has made many  improvements upon the place and has kept everything in excellent condition, and the farm is one of the most valuable properties of his locality.  He has reached the advance age of eighty seven years but still enjoys good health.  He was married in 1854, to Miss Mary Klingler, also a native of Alsace-Lorraine.
Joseph Huck entered St. George's Catholic School of Kenosha at the usual age and continued his education there until he was thirteen years old, when he became a pupil in the country schools in Pleasant Prairie Township.  Three years later he put aside his textbooks and from that time until he was forty years of age he worked with his father, August.  In 1895 he purchased fifty acres of good land on Section 12 on which he has since resided.  He has made all of the improvements upon the place and has brought it to a high state of development.
Mr. Huck was married on the 16th of February 1880 to Miss Mary Schackamuth, a daughter of Nicholas Schackamuth (Section 24 Somers Township).  Three children have been born to this union, namely:  Mamie, who is Mrs. Frank Lichter; William, who is assisting in the operation of the home farm; and Alexander, also at home.
(Source:  City and County Kenosha, Wisconsin Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol. II, Chicago, The S.J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1916)

About August Huck
August J. Huck, living on Section 24,  Somers Township, is a representative of one of the old families of Kenosha County.  His birth occurred in Pleasant Prairie Township, March 3, 1872.  His father, August Huck, was born in Alsace-Lorraine in 1829 and acquired a common school education.  When twenty-one years of age he resolved to try his fortune in the new world and, crossing the Atlantic on one of the old-time sailing vessels, landed in Canada, where he remained for a year.  The succeeding year was spent in the state of New York and in 1851 he arrived in Kenosha County, where he secured the position of teamster with John Bullen, who was the first settler in Southport.  He occupied that position of five years.  His entire life has been characterized by indefatigable industry and he has used every opportunity that would enable him to work his way upward.  In 1876, with the capital acquired through industry and frugality. He purchased one hundred and thirty-four acres of land on Section 24, Somers Township, and upon that farm has since resided.  His labors wrought marked changes in the appearance of the place, which he converted into a highly productive farm, adding thereto many modern improvements.
In 1860 Mr. Huck was joined i wedlock to Miss Mary Anna Klingler, by whom he had seven children, as follows:  Joe; Mary; Michael, who is deceased; Margaret; Annie, who has also passed away; Katie; and August.  There are also three grandchildren.  Mrs. Huck passed away in 1913 and was laid to rest in St. George Cemetery in Kenosha.  Mr. Huck came to the United States empty-handed, possessing as his capital only industry and perseverance and the hope that he might win success here.  His progress in due entirely to his own efforts and his prosperity proves what may be accomplished when energy and perseverance lead the way.  His son and namesake, August J. Huck, now has charge of the home far, which he is carefully and systematically cultivating, thereby winning deserved success.




Section 24 Township of Somers
August Huck parcel



Anderson

Peter M. Anderson

Peter M. Anderson was engaged in the buying and selling of produce in the Village of Somers as a member of the Somers Produce Company, of which he was the organizer, was born in Denmark, September 22, 1868, a son of Hans Peter and Anna Marie Anderson.  Peter Anderson did not believe the business advantages and opportunities there offered were equal to those that he might secure in the new world and at the age of 18 years he came to the U.S. and penetrated into the interior of the country, reaching Racine county.

For 3 years he was employed as a farm hand, (census reports show he worked for local farmers, Braid and Hansche who owned parcels in the Berryville neighborhood of Somers) after which he rented 80 acres, continuing its cultivation for 2 years.  He afterward rented more land, upon which he lived for 3 years.  All during these periods he had the desire of owning a farm and he carefully saved his earnings until his industry and frugality had brought him sufficient capital to enable him to purchase 80 acres.  He invested in a tract east of Corliss (Sturtevant) where he lived and then sold out.  He then bought 80 acres near Somers and engaged in farming for 8 years.  Subsequently he built a fine home in Somers where he lived for 7 years.  During this period he engaged in buying cabbage and other produce and organized the Somers Produce Company with M.A. Rasmussen and J.J. Barrows.

On January 13, 1891 he married Miss Henrietta Felske.  They had 3 children: Lawrence who was station agent at Franksville, Wisconsin, Lillian who married L.J. Gould of Somers, and Myrtle.

Mr. Anderson’s name is on the membership of the Woodmen camp at Somers, in which he held most of the offices.  He was also involved with the Royal Neighbors Lodge at Somers the Masonic fraternity in Kenosha.  He advanced to the Knights Templar degree.  He served for one term as Somers Town Treasurer in addition to the local school board.

He landed in Racine with only fifty cents in his pocket and paid that to a liveryman to take him into the country.  Thus he literally began life here empty-handed, but energy and determination stood him in good stead and served as the capital on which he built his later success.

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

More about Peter M. Anderson
1.  See posting of "Houses of Somers" and "Barns of Somers" in this blog.
2.  The house of Peter M. Anderson was built by B.F. Yule.  See Yule posting in this blog.
3.  The house of Peter M. Anderson is currently owned and beautifully restored by Mr. Yule's family.
4.  The 1930 U.S. Census shows the Peter M. Anderson family lived in California.  Peter M. Anderson died November 27, 1944 in Burbank, California and is buried at Grandview Cemetery in Glendale, California.
5.  See posting of "Village" on this blog to locate Anderson house.  Take note that Gould's were neighbors.
6.  P.M. Anderson sold his business at Corliss to Bauman & Murphy of Racine.  (Source:  Racine Journal January 25, 1910).

Gross and Rapp

William F. Gross

William F. Gross was born in Saxe-Meiningen, Germany.  He was the son of Casper and Christina (Turk) Gross, who left their native country and came to America in 1866.  They located in Racine and the father secured a position in a lumberyard there, which he held until his demise in September of that year.  He is buried in Racine.  He was survived for four decades by his wife, who died in 1906, and was buried in Minnesota.  They were the parents of William F. of this review; and Ernest, who is deceased.  The parents were German Lutherans and in their daily lives tried to exemplify the teachings of the church.

William F. Gross entered public schools in Germany and studied until his family emigrated to the new world in 1866.  He continued his education in Berryville, for three seasons gaining a thorough command of English.  His mother remarried as his father died the year they arrived in America and William remained at his stepfather's home until he was seventeen years of age when he began working in Kenosha.  He was employed there during the summers for seven years, while in the winters he went to the lumber woods in the northern part of the state.  Following his marriage he purchased twenty acres of land near Berryville, and for thirty-six years cultivated his land intensively gaining a good return from his labors.  He then sold his place to the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad and purchased eighty-one acres in Somers Township, known as the Gibson farm.  In 1906 he added to his holdings by the purchase of a seventy-two acre tract, but subsequently he sold sixty-nine acres of his farm to his son.  He has erected an attractive home on his place on Section 18, Somers Township, and all of the other improvements are modern and in good condition.

Mr. Gross was married on the 8th of January, 1879, to Miss Annie Fleischmann, a daughter of Teronimus Fleischmann.  To this union have been born six children of whom Ernest is deceased, the others being:  Fred, who is married and has two sons, Alfons and George; William, who is married and lives near Berryville; Agnes, a resident of St. Paul, Minnesota; Aloys, who is a member of Coast Battery, No. 169, and is stationed at Fortress Monroe, Virginia; and Madeline, who is employed at Pfennig's grocery.

Mr. Gross is an adherent of the Republican party and for three or four terms has served as a member of the school board.  he is connected with the Woodmen at Somers and in religious faith is a Roman Catholic.  When he began his independent career he had no capital but was willing to work and possessed sound judgment.  As years have passed his industry and good management have brought their reward and he is now in comfortable circumstances.

(Source:  City and Kenosha County Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol. !!, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1916)

1880, 1900, 1920, U.S. Federal Census and U.S. Naturalization Records
William Gross (same as William F. Gross)
Born about July 1854 in Germany/Saxony
Spouse:  Annie (Anna) Gross was born about 1856 in Bavaria
Marriage Year:  1880
Immigration Year:  William arrived June 15, 1866 at Port of New York
Naturalization Date:  William, June 18, 1919
Household Members:
Annie Gross, spouse, born about 1853 or 1856
Frederick Gross, son, born about January 1883
William J., son, born about 1885
Alois (Aloys), son, born about June 1887
Agnes, daughter, born about February 1890
Madeline, daughter, born about May 1895
Christina, mother, born about 1832, divorced and lived with William and family in 1880 Census as well as Charles, listed as a half brother.


About Christina Turk Gross Rapp
Christina Turk was born in Saxony, Germany.  Her parents names according to her marriage licence were Michael and Sophia T(u)erk.  She cam to America in 1866 with her husband, Caspar Gross and two children:  William and Ernest.  They settled in Racine, Wisconsin area and joined the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Racine where Christian Rapp and his sisters went.  Caspar died in September 1866.  She married Christian Rapp in November 1866.  She lost her son Ernest; and a baby girl, Christina Barbara; and a baby boy named Christian by the year 1869.  She had two more children: Christian and Matthias.  A few years later, she another baby boy, Charles out of wedlock.  By 1879 Christian had left her with his two sons and his mother Anna to settle in Arlington, South Dakota.
(Source:  kaybriggs53 public site at Ancestry.com)


Christina Gross
(Source:  Photo by kaybriggs53 at public site of Ancestry.com)

About William J. Gross, son of William and Anna Gross

William Gross, well known farmer of the Town of Somers and a deputy sheriff of the county, is sleeping with his full brace of revolvers under his pillow just at present and he is keeping his home pretty well guarded during the day light hours.  All of this is being done on account of a threatening letter recently received by Gross which is now in the hands of the sheriff.
In the letter a demand was made on Gross that he place $50 in money under a stone at the foot of a designated telephone pole along the Lake Shore road.  The penalty of refusal was a threat to take the life of Gross and the members of his family and burn his home and other possession.  Gross has been waiting some ten days for things to happen.  There was not signature to the letter beyond a significant "skull and cross bones."  It was mailed in Kenosha and delivered to Gross by a rural carrier.
Gross was inclined to take the letter as a joke.  It reached him just a little while after he had been instrumental in recovering a bunch of stolen goods which had been taken from the Wilson store at the north end of Milwaukee Avenue.  After he turned it over to the district attorney Gross began to get frightened.  The attorney ordered an investigation.  A roll of money was placed under the stone in question at the foot of the post and just after midnight the men who had been set to watch the stone saw an automobile come near the corner.  Then some one made a break  and coughed.  The man driving the automobile turned into a side road and managed to get away before the bungling deputy who had coughed could get the number of the machine.
Since that time the police and the sheriff have been making almost nightly trips into Somers to make an effort to get some new clew to the identity of the men who have sent the letters to gross.  A half a dozen automobile owners have been called before the district attorney and the sheriff for examination in connection with the investigation of the death threat, but none of them have been able to give any real information.
(Source:  Racine Journal publication date November 6, 1915)
The funeral of William J. Gross was held on Monday morning from his late home on Lake Shore Road. Mr. Gross was born on the Berryville Road on the farm now owned by Henry Schmunck on March 23, 1884. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Frances Gross, one daughter Madeline, his mother Mrs. Anna Gross, one brother, Fred; and a sister, Mrs. Richard Gehl of Milwaukee. His father preceded him in death 18 months ago. A large number of members of the Knights of Columbus have been in attendance different times as the body lay at the home.(Source:  Racine Journal publication date September 23, 1932)

About Frederick Gross, son of William and Anna

Mr. Fred Gross rented one of his father’s farms, better known as the Gypsen place.

(Source:  Racine Journal publication date April 3, 1913)

Mrs. Fred C. Gross and child disappeared from home at Berryville last Thursday afternoon.  Mysterious disappearance of Mrs. Fred C. Gross and her two year old son, from her home on a farm near Berryville, has alarmed her husband, and the police departments of Racine and Kenosha, also Chicago, have been requested to locate her, and the boy if possible.

Mrs. Gross started from home on Thursday, march 20 accompanied by the little boy, to take a Milwaukee Electric Railway and Light company car for Kenosha for the purpose of attending church.  The day wore on and the husband, busy with his farm work, did not notice that she was not home until night came on and then he became alarmed.

Making inquiries, he ascertained that no one had seen her take the electric car, she had not been in Kenosha, and did not attend church.  Previous to marriage, her home was in Chicago and he thought perhaps she might have decided to visit her parents and other relatives in that city, but a trip to Chicago convinced him that no one had seen her in that city.

Then he came to this city and notified the police department and offers a reward of from $50 to $100 for information leading to her whereabouts.  Mr. Gross said that his wife, before he married her, was an only daughter and resided in Chicago.  Following their marriage he bought a farm at Berryville and they came there to live.

There was no trouble between him and his wife and he says that she was always a loving and dutiful helpmate and was fond of her home, seldom going way.  At the time she left, so far as he could discern, she was in good health and mind and made no complaints.

Mrs. Gross is described as a woman about 22 years old.  Her weight 124.  She wore a light shirt waist and short black coat and a large black hat.  Mr. Gross admits that he is greatly alarmed and fears that his wife may have suddenly suffered a derangement of the mind and wandered off.  Careful search of this city and Kenosha  police departments fails to reveal any trace of the woman and child.

(Source:  Racine Journal publication date March 24, 1913)



1908 Partial Map for Somers Township, Kenosha County
Willliam Gross, 72 acres in Section 18 on Lake Michigan
William Gross, 20 acres in Section 7 on Berryville Road

More parcels owned by William Gross

The 1908 map of Somers townships shows the following owned by W. Gross

50 acres in Section 11

5 acres in Section 11

28 acres in Section 12

Note:  Section 11 and 12 are now part of Petrifying Spring Park. See tab at top of blog for additional information and photos about the park.

Christian and Christina Gross Rapp

1870 U.S. Census, Township of Somers

Christian Rapp

Born about 1822 in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany

Spouse: Christina Gross Rapp

Son: William Rapp born about 1855 in Saxony

Son: Ernest O. Rapp, born about 1861 in Saxony

Son: Christian Rapp, born about 1870 in Wisconsin

Mother:  Anna Rapp, mother of Christian, age 73, living with her son.  Anna born in Prussia.

1861 Partial Map of Somers Township, Berryville neighborhood
C. Rapp parcel, Section 6 on Berryville Road
Kenosha County Land Records stated Samuel Hale sold acres to Chris Rapp March 18, 1967.

Anna Rapp
(Source:  Photo  by kaybriggs53 public site at Ancestry.com)

Heddle



1924 Map of the Village of Somers
Fred Heddle parcel north side of Highway E or Somers Road.


Frederick W. Heddle
Frederick W. Heddle was born in 1863 in Illinois.  He was the son of David and Mary Yule Heddle.  David Heddle was born July 24, 1827 in Shapinshav, Orkney, Scotland.  He came to America June 2, 1855 and first settled for a short itme in Millburn, Illinois where he met upon the Yule family, some of which moved to Somers Township from Millburn, Illinois.  David Heddle married Mary Yule, July 1861 in Somers Township.  Mary was born Feb. 16, 1836 in Aberdeen, Scotland and is the daughter of Alexander Yule and Jane Watson Yule.
David and Mary lived in Somers until 1863 when they moved to Newport, Lake County, Illinois
Children of David and Mary:
Frederick W. born in Illinois about 1863.  Lived in Somers and worked as a carpenter.  Died October 26, 1925.
Cora Jane born in Illinois about 1866 (also seen Aug 4, 1965) and died June 3, 1891
Margaret Eleanor born in Illinois 1870.  Married John Connell.
David born about 1871 and died Aug. 14, 1872.
Marion/MaryAnn/Mollie (have seen all three names in census reports) born about 1877.
After the death of David Heddle on November 12, 1880,  Mary Yule Heddle moved back to Somers with her son Frederick W. and daughter Marion/MaryAnn/Mollie.  Fred Heddle lived in the village of Somers.
(Source:  Partial information from the Historic Millburn Community Assoc., Inc.)

More About Heddle
"Judge and Mrs. D.H. Flett of Racine and Dr. Charles Flett of Waterford spent Sunday with Mrs. Mary Heddle."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal publication date Aug. 22, 1902)

"Mrs. Mary Heddle and Miss Annie Yule have been very ill at Millburn, Illinois but are reported better."
(Source:  Racine Journal publication date April 3, 1903)

There are seven vacncies in the public schools.  Normal school training is now required of all applicants for positions.  Mollie Heddle, Somers, Kenosha County, Graduate of rochester Academy and Whitewater Normal."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal, publication date June 1, 1905)

"Mr. Fred Heddle has returned from a trip to Denver, Colorado.  Mr. Heddle has been selected as Director of the Stamp springs Mining Co., Denver, Colorado."
(Source:  Racine Journal News, publication date Sept. 28, 1909).



More About Mary Yule Heddle
"Mrs. Mary Heddle, age 76, widow of the late David Heddle and one of the best known of the pioneer residents of the Town of Somers, was found dead in bed at  her home just after 6 o'clock Wednesday morning.  Death came during the night but it came so peacefully that the other members of the household did not know that Mrs. Heddle had been ill until her son Fred went to her room to call her for breakfast and found her dead.  Mrs. Heddle had been in the best of health as of Tuesday and after the big rain of Tuesday afternoon had walked more than a half mile to the house of a neighbor where she had made a social visit.  When she returned she did not complain of any illness.  The deceased was a daughter of the late Alexander Yule, one of the first settlers of the Town of Somers.  She was born Feb. 16, 1836 and spent much of her time in Somers Township.  She is survived by one son, Fred of Somers, and two daughters Mrs. John Connell of Russell, Illinois and Mrs. Ira Burgess of Kellogg's Corners and also by six brothers.  Mrs. Heddle was a half sister of George H.Yule and John T. Yule of this city.
Mrs. Heddle was united in marriage to David Heddle in 1861.  Mr. Heddle died 31 years ago.
The remains of Mrs. Heddle were taken to Millburn, Illinois where a short service was conducted by Rev. Safford. A quartet from Milburn sang a number of favorite songs.  Interment beside her husband and daughter in the family plot in the Millburn, Illinois cemetery.
(Source:  Racine Journal News, publication date May 30, 1912)

Thom



Partial 1887 Map, Somers Township, Kenosha County
A. Thom parcels
Section 1:  22 acres, 30 acres, and another parcel 80 acres
Section 2: 5 acres

Also:  Mrs. J. Thom owned 75 acres in Section 11 but it is not clear if this person is related to A. Thom.

Click on the map for a larger view.




Alexander Thom

Alexander Thom
ALEX THOM DIES SUDDENLY WITH HEART ATTACK
NORTH BEND, September 12, 1928
"This community was shocked Wednesday morning to hear that one of her foremost citizens, Alex Thom, has passed away at 1:45 following a sudden heart attack.
Mr. Thom was in his usual good health on Tuesday and had accompanied Mrs. Thom in the car to the post office for the evening mail.  His attack came on in the middle of the night and he passed away despite medical attention.
For many years Alex Thom has been prominent in business and politics of North Bend and had been elected Mayor for four terms.  He came to North Bend in 1882 when he associated himself with Smith & Mallon, a firm engaged in handling imported horses.   His specialty was of raising blooded Clydesdale horses and Chester White swine.  Four years later he purchased a farm and turned his attention vigorously to general farming and stock raising until 1892, when he retired and again became a citizen of North Bend.  He was a staunch churchman having been a lifelong member of the United Presbyterian Church and was one of the country's leading prohibitionists and elected Mayor on a dry ticket.
He was one of the organizers and the president of the First State Bank of North Bend but had retired and severed his connections with it several years ago.
Alexander Thom was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, September 25, 1847 and would have been 81 years old this month.  He was afforded the advantages of the schools of his native land and was associated with farm enterprises.  In 1877 he came to this country and settled in Wisconsin, where for five years, he was the foreman of an estate owned by Henry B. Sherman in Dodge County, Wisconsin.
The deceased has been married three times.  His first wife was Margaret Agen of Illinois who died in 1892.  For his second wife he married Anna Colllins, who died a few years later.  On April 15, 1913 he married Laura Miller of North Bend, who survives him with one daughter, Mrs. Andrew Harvey of Fremont.  Mr. Thom was the last member of his family.
Mr. Thom was held in high esteem by everyone who knew him and he had a large acquaintance over Dodge County.  He was recognized as a radical prohibitionist and was zealous in the furtherance of the national observance.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been completed but it will probably be held from the family home Saturday afternoon at 2:30 with burial in Woodlawn Cemetery.

More About Alexander Thom
Alexander Thom  was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, September 25, 1847, and is the son of William and Christina (Chalmers) Thom.  William Thom was a farmer by vocation and both he and his wife were zealous members of the Free Church of Scotland.  Of the six children of William and Christina, three came to the United States:  William became a resident of Nebraska and whose death occurred in a hospital at Omaha, December 13, 1919; Isabelle who was the wife of James Thain of Illinois, and Alexander.  Of the other three children, James and George died in Scotland and Andrew was pastor of a church in Stirlingshire as a representative clergyman of the Free Church of Scotland.

More About Alexander Thom and B.F. Yule
CENTENNIAL OF THE ALEXANDER THOM BARN
Thom Barn Centennial Celebration - July 9, 1988
By Donald Harvey
Dodge County Historical Society

"For one hundred years, the candy striped barn north of North Bend, Nebraska has been a landmark for local residents and is listed as one of the historic sites and points of interest in Dodge county.
The barn was constructed during 1888 for Alexander Thom, my grandfather, by Benjamin Franklin (B.F.) Yule, a friend and master barn builder from Somers, Wisconsin.
My favorite stories during my boyhood involved this barn.  My mother, Mabel Thom Harvey, who was Alexander Thom's only child, was born in what is now the dining room of the farm house on October 8, 1888, the same year Frank Yule built the barn.  How I loved the stories of her childhood, the animals and the barn.
Alexander Thom emigrated to America in 1877, spending five years in Wisconsin.  In 1882, he came to North bend to manage the horse importing business of the firm of Smith and Mallon.  In 1886, he bought 160 acres of land, lying on the hill overlooking the Platte valley.
In March 1888, Alex Thom wrote a letter to B. Frank Yule, in Wisconsin, asking him to design a barn for the hillside, with dimensions to accommodate his Clydesdale stock and an upstairs drive-in loft.  he also requested him to figure a bill for lumber.
The original structure was built without nails and, if you look at the beams inside, you will see they are held in place by the oak "pins" which Frank Yule spent the winter of 1888 making.  Through the years I have been intrigued by the beams, supports, pegs and the angles made by them.
Following the standard practice of the time, the wall skeleton was assembled on the ground and teams of horses were used to raise the sides, or "bents" as they were called.  One newspaper account said "it took 50 teams of horses and a lot of men to pull the sides up and pin them together with pegs."
Mr. Yule's wages for the job included $191.75 cash and his fare from Millburn and Wisconsin to North Bend and his return home.  B. Frank Yule was the father of Blanche Thom, wife of Dr. James Thom of North Bend, Dr. James Thom was a nephew of Alex Thom.
The walnut mallet and broad ax used by Yule during the construction are on display at the barn.  These are a gift of his granddaughter, Mrs. Katherine Thom Knox of Lincoln.  They were given to her by her uncle, Earl Yule of Wisconsin.  Earl Yule told Katherine that his father always stood on his head stop the framework of the barn after it was all in place and that Benjamin Franklin Yule was of slight build, 5'9" in height.
Since I was only three years old when my grandfather died in 1928, I don't have many tales to tell.  There are no surviving records of the building of the barn or records of the Clydesdale importing and breeding business.
We do have two silver medals granted in 1882 and 1883 by the Nebraska Board of Agriculture.  The legend engraved on them states they were awarded for the best mare and best stallion of any age shown at the state fair during those years.
In 1893 or 1894, Alex Thom moved to North Bend and was one of the organizers and president of the First State Bank (1907).  he was also Mayor of North Bend for four different terms.  Most of the family stories seem to be centered around his North Bend life rather than the farm.
In 1935, major repairs were begun on the barn.  It needed a new foundation, shingles and was painted in 1937, but the painters left the barn red with no white stripes.  It was not until 1964 that the barn was again painted and the white stripes were added once more.  The barn was painted again in 1976 and this past year Joe Woita has restored and painted the barn for its centennial.
In 1979 Dr. Andre Harvey, my father and son-in-law of Alex Thom, gave use of the barn to the Dodge County Historical Society for the display of agricultural items.  He wished future generations to see the horse drawn equipment he knew in his youth.

Somers Dredge and Ditch

Morrow & Paramore of Indiana, contractors, have their floating dredge set up and work has commenced on the big Somers ditch and canal.
This ditch, when completed, will redeem hundreds of acres of farm land.  The length is seven miles, average depth is 6 feet and width at the top from 16-24 feet.  The cost is estimated at about $12,000.00.  This floating dredge is constructed that the machinery is on a large scow, and back of that is another scow on which is the house where the men have their quarters.
(Source:  Racine Journal News, publication date May 4, 1909)

For Sale-Farms

The following "for sale" entries relating to Somers Township  land, homes, and miscellaneous items may be of historical significance.  The entry postings below were all found in the Racine Journal newspapers.  The date in the parenthesis represent the date the entry was published in the newspaper.  Although not a complete listing, it is a fair representation of the activity during the late 1800's and early 1900's.

Anderson/Bush (02-16-1906) "P.M. Anderson purchased 1-1/2 acres of land in the village from Mr. William Bush recently, and will erect a modern house."

Anderson (11-19-1898) "For Sale - choice property on South Street in Somers.  See Jacob Anderson."

Bailey (March 30, 1906) Mrs. and Mrs. A.P. Bailey have moved into their new home in the village."

Bain (12-02-1902) "W.E. Bain's new barn in near completion.  B.F. Yule is doing the work."

Barrows/Bush (03-30-1906) "Mr. Hiram Barrows purchased 45 acres of land from Miss Delia Bishop.  Consideration $4,500.00."

Barrows (08-28-1916) "Jacob J. Barrows has purchased 45 acres of land from William Wendtlandt."

Barrows (12-06-1899) "Jacob Barrows sold his farm and moved to Racine."

Barrows (11-10-1906) "For Sale - 20 acre farm just northwest of Berryville.  H. Barrows, Somers"

Biehn/Longmore (04-05-1899) "Jake Biehn sold his farm to Albert Longmore for $75 an acre."

Biehn/Garratt (05-10-1910) "A party of surveyers were out from Kenosha on Saturday morning and surveyed a portion of Jacob Biehn's farm, which was purchased by Alfred Garratt, a year ago."

Bishop (03-23-1906) "For Sale - My farm of 81 acres, 1/2 mile from Somers, good barns, good 12 room house, orchard, good wells, cistern.  Delia Bishop.  Somers Village."

Bishop (12-14-1898) "I.T. Bishop sold his west forty to Milwaukee parties last week for $70 an acre."

Bishop (12-26-1894) "Isaac T. Bishop sold his farm of 160 acres to Chicago parties for $50 per acre."

Bohm/Stetler (10-19-1916) "August Bohm, who has purchased the Stetler property in the Village, expects to move onto it the first of the month."

Bohm (05-11-1899) "The mason has commenced work on the foundation of August Bohm's new house."

Bose (05-14-1906) "For Sale - Variety of Strawberry plants.  Ed Bose, Berryville."

Buswell/Lichter (03-21-1900 "The Buswell farm has been sold to George Lichter of Minnesota."

Stonebraker (12-06-1899) "The Stonebraker property has been purchased, house and three acres by Mrs. Joseph Bishop."

Burgess/Flett (01-09-1903) "George Burgess is moving to the Flett farm which he will work the coming year."

Burgess (05-25-1906) "For Sale - to close the Estate of the late W.E. Burgess, 200 plus acres of choice farm land one half mile from Somers Station.  Will divide."

Cook/Bullamore (06-20-1899) "Mr. and Mrs. Lafayette Cook have sold their proerty in the Village to Mr. J.H. Bullamore of Spring Bluff, Illinois.  Mr. Bullamore will take possession in about two months."

Cook/Bush (09-23-1903) "Mr. Elliott Cook has sold his house and lot to William B. Bush and will move with his family to Kenosha."

Corbett/Feest (03-02-1909) "Thomas Corbett, Jr. has purchased 15 acres of land from John Feest."

Donsing/Christensen (11-06-1913) "Fred Donsing has sold his farm to Lawrence Christensen and expects to hold an auction."

Felch/Schuster (04-06-1906) "Mr. Frank N. Felch recently sold 40 acres to John and Adoph Schuster."

Felch (10-30-1906) "Frank Felch will hold an auction sale Thursday of this week.  He and family are moving to Racine."

Fink/Biehn (08-17-1899) "Last week John Fink sold his farm to Jacob Biehn for $50 an acre."

Fink/Herzog (02-21-1902) "John W. Fink has sold his farm of 120 acres to John Herzog, the transfer being made last week."

Fitzgerald/Bishop (11-21-1905) "The latest deal in real estate is the purchased of the Fitzgerald property by Albert Bishop who will take possession December 1st.  Mr. Fitzgerald who has been a resident of the Village for anumber of years and will hold an auction sale on Tuesday and then he will move to Milwaukee, his former home."

Gardinier (05-24-1900) "Ellsworth Gardiniere has purchased a cabbage planter."

Gascoigne/Christensen (02-25-1913) "Thomas Gascoigne has sold his farm to Chris Christensen of Racine."

Gascoigne (08-17-1899) "William Gascoigne sold his property to his son, Fred."

Gascoigne/Soens (11-16-1906) "Mr. Joseph Gascoigne and family moved on the Soens farm."

Grimshaw (12-15-1905) "Mrs. Grimshaw sold her farm to Andrew Nelson."

Haigh (10-10-1902) "Enoch Haigh has bought the Porter farm for $80 per acre."

Hansche (04-03-1913) "Mr. and Mrs. Hansche has sold their farm.  They expect to make their home in Racine."

Hansche (07-03-1908) "For Sale - Good bay farm horse.  1,300 pounds.  Inquire at Lawrence Hansche farm, west from Piper's Park, Berryville."

Hansche/Piper (12-09-1902) "Mr. F.J. Hansche has purchased the farm of F. Piper situated one mile west of Berryville.  Mr. Hansche and wife iwll move to their new home the first part of next week."

Heide/Strong (11-06-1913) "Chris Heide who has rented the George Strong farm for some years will hold an auction this week.  Mr. Heide has purchased a 40 acre farm in Pleasant Prairie and will move onto it in the near future.  Clarence Strong of North Dakota will move onto his father's farm this fall."

Helding (12-02-1913) "Nels Helding sold his farm and will have an auction."

Helding (09-21-1948) "A family from New York state has purchased Mr. and Mrs. Fred Helding's home in the Village.  Mr. and Mrs. Helding have gone to live in the Danish Old People's Home in Racine."

Klapproth (04-29-1916) For Sale - 50,000 Glen Mary strawberry plants. $2.00 per 1,000.  Henry Klapproth, Berryville.

Klapproth (07-02-1917) "For Sale - 50,000 Cabbage plants.  H. Klapproth, Berryville.

Klapproth (11-08-1912) "For Sale - Good Milch cows.  Rt #4 Box 31, H. Klapproth, Berryville."

Klapproth (1915) "Henry Klapproth and Catharine Klapproth purchased a 30 acre parcel and a 5 acres parcel from Lawrence and Mary Hansche."

Klinkhammer/Biehn (08-15-1911) "John Klinkhammer has purchased J. Biehn's farm of about 95 acres."

Knudsen (11-15-1902) "Miller & Case have sold a 75 acres farm near Somers to Hans Knudsen."

Lauer/Donsing (08-27-1907) "It is reported that William Lauer has purchased 40 acres of land from Mr. Donsing and will erect a new house upon it in the near future."

Lauer/Thompson (1-23-1902) "Another important real estate deal has been closed within the last few days in the village, Frank Lauer having purchased the property of Frank Thompson, which consists of 37-1/2 acres of land and the buildings, located on the east side of the railroad tracks.  It is said that Mr. lauer will open up a meat market and probably a hotel in the near future."

Longmore/Biehn (04-05-1899) "Albert Longmore sold his property in the Village to his father and purchased Jacob Biehn's farm."

Longmore/Barrows (10-10-1902) "Albert Longmore had sold his farm to Jacob Barrows of Berryville at $83-1/2 per acre."

Longwell/Rasmussen (04-10-1901) "Matt Rasmussen purchased the John Longwell farm, containing 60 acres."

Longwell/Fink (11-09-1906) "Harry Jones, who a few years ago bought the place known as the Longwell farm, and having sold out to Eugene Fink of Mt. Pleasant, has moved to Mygatt's Corners."

Lotz (08-23-1913) "For Sale - Cheap - 60 acre farm 2-1/2 miles west of Berryville.  Owner, Joseph Lotz"

Lytle (02-07-1893) "The feed mill at somers which was built and operated by Hughes Bros. for several years, and which was purchased by Mr. Allen Williams of Milwaukee, has again changed hands and is now the property of Mr. Henry Lytle of this place.  He is well known to all and deserves the patronage of every farmer."

Ozanne (05-28-1896) "Seed potatoes, Rural New yorkers No. 2, good quality and heavy yield.  Price 25 cents a bushel.  L.E. Ozanne."

Perry (11-16-1899) "Joseph Perry sold his 40 acre farm for $50 an acre."

Piper (02-25-1900) "For Sale - Farm of 70 acres.  Three miles south of Racine and one mile from Berryville.  F.K. Piper."

Piper (03-22-1899) "Thomas Piper purchased the Blodgett farm."

Piper/Jackon (03-29-1904) "For Sale - 41 acre farm known as the Jackson farm.  Thomas Piper in Berryville, seller."

Rasmussen/Jones (09-07-1906) "M.A. Rasmussen purchased the Harry Jones farm."

Reece (03-06-1884) "D.W. Reece will sell at public auction on his farm situated two miles north of Somers Station and two miles south of Western union Junction, on Thursday, March 13, 1884, the following property: eleven cows, three head of fat cattle, one Cooly Creamer containing 6 cans, a lot of butter jars, milk pans, one butter worker, 200 bushels of Scotch seed barley, eight bushels of seed buskwheat, one seed garden drill, one buggy."

Reidenbach/Bishop (12-02-1913) "Mr. John Reidenbach will have an auction.  He purchased 40 acres of land from Isaac T. Bishop."

Reiter/Moran (04-04-1893) "At the auction sale of the Reiter farm in Somers, James Moran, of Somers, bought 15 acres for $1,500 and C.H. Gonnermann bought more acres for $5,700.00."

Scheckler (12-16-1912) "The farm of the late John G. Scheckler one mile west of Berryville, Wisconsin consisting of 107 acres, will be sold in three parcels to the highest bidder, at the north door of the Kenosha Court House at 1 p.m. on the 21st day of December 21st by order of the circuit court."

Scheckler (12-31-1912) "The farm of Mr. Scheckler was bought by his two sons.  It went very cheap."

Schoolhouse No. 7 (09-05-1905) B.F. Yule was awarded the contract for building the new school house No. 7 has the foundation well under ways and the carpenter work will begin soon."

Smith (02-24-1921) "Frank Smith has rented his farm to his brother and will hold an auction sale of his stock and machinery on Tuesday March 1.  Frank Smith has purchased the house and lot in the Village owned by August Monteen of Kenosha."

Somers Creamery (July 1913) "Louis Fenske, the former owner of the Somers Creamery, has again purchased the property."

Sorenson (Nov. 13, 1907)  "Otto Sorensen, who sold his farm recently, will have an auction.  Mr. and mrs. Soreson will move to Racine."

Swartz (04-01-1897) "For Sale - Apple trees at 6 foot.  Strawberryy plants $1.75 to $4.00 per 1,000 according to variety.  J.F. Swartz, Berryville."

Thelen/Sherwood (01-12-1899) "Mr. and Mrs. Sherwood have sold their farm to Mr. Nicholas Thelen, and moved to Racine last week."

Uhlemberg/Palleson (01-12-1935) "George Palleson purchased the farm formerly owned by the late Henry Uhlemberg."

Yonk (04-12-1900) "Mr. and Mrs. John Yonk and family are moving onto their farm they recently purchased."

Yule (02-25-1907) "Mr. B.F. Yule has purchased ten acres of land from Mr. A.C. Ozanne.  Consideration $800."

Wells Drilled

Introduction
One way we can document the settlement of Somers Township is knowing when our pioneers built houses and barns. Drilling wells was not only important, and a convenience, to the household but most farmers had wells drilled or hand-dug for the barn area.  It was not uncommon for a farm to have several wells.  The list below is not complete but it answers the question of "when" did farmers pay for this feature.  All entries below were found in the Racine Journal New.  The date in parenthesis represents the newspaper publication date for that entry.  For fiurther informationn please research other postings for "Barns of Somers" and "Houses of Somers" in this blog.

Abresch (04-10-1914) "John Abresch had a well drilled last week."

Anderson (01-06-1905) "John Dosing is drilling a well for Peter Anderson near the village."

Anderson (07-27-1906) "Fred Donsing struck water at a depth of 183 feet for P.M. Anderson."

Bailey (12-26-1905) "Mr. John Donsing struck water at a depth of 180 feet for Mr. A.P. Bailey last week."

Birch (10-31-1911) "The Zion City Well Drilling Co. is making a well for William Birch."

Bohm (06-23-1916) "John Kemp & Co. of Union Grove reached water at a depth of 184 feet at August Bohm's last week."

Corbett (12-08-1908) "Mr. Boles of Franksville struck water at Mr. Thomas Corbett's at a depth of 160 feet last week."

DeLine (04-27-1899) "John Kemp & Co. reached water at a depth of 140 feet at Frank DeLine's last week."

Fink (08-27-1896) "James H. Fink has succeeded in getting water at a depth of 170 feet and has put up a windmill."

Gascoigne (03-27-1907) "John Donsing struck a good flow of water at a depth of 20 feet at Thomas Gascoigne's Saturday."

Gitzlaff (10-11-1900) "John Donsing is digging a well for August Gitzlaff."

Grimshaw (02-23-1899) "John Kemp & Co. reached water at a depth of 125 feet on Mrs. Grimshaw's farm on Tuesday after four days' work."

Hansche (09-09-1901) "James Janson in engaged drilling a well for Will Hansche of Berryville.  Mr. Hanson states that he has work engaged ahead to last him until late in the fall."

Hanson (03-27-1903) "James Hanson reached water at a depth of 180 feet on the farm of Knud Hansen.

Huck (10-17-1911) "Joseph Huck is having a well bored."

Paulson (11-18-1923) "Martin Jensen, the well driller, struck a fiine flow of water at a depth of 24 feet for Hans Paulson."

Sorensen (03-27-1903) "James Jansen is presently drilling at F.J. Sorensen's/

Spence (04-15-1914) "John Donsing is putting in a water system for Misses Harriet and Annie Spence."

Strong (08-15-1905) "John Donsing drilled a well for L. Strong last week."

Piper (11-17-1921) "The well drillers are still at work at the Russell Piper farm.  They have reached a depth of 900 feet and no water.  Water finally struck at 918 feet.