Burgess Family and Somers History

William, Burdette, and Robert Burgess
(Photo Courtesy of George Burgess, May 2016)

Edwin Burgess, brother of William, Burdette, and Robert
(Photo Courtesy of George Burgess, May 2016)

More About Burgess

Click here for more information on the Burgess family under the Oakwood Cemetery website.

Burgess Family and Somers History
The following pages are a scan of the original hand-written history written at a 1936 reunion of the Burgess and related families (Leet, Buswell, Ticknor, and other) at Petrifying Springs Park.  This written history identifies descendants of W. F. Burgess.

(Images courtesy of George Burgess, May 2016)

Burgess Family History As Told in 1936

These notes were transcribed from the original notes used to give a speech in Kenosha County, Wisconsin in 1936. The occasion was a BURGESS Family Reunion. The notes were written in pencil on school paper.

Best regards, Bob Heck bheck@execpc.com

March 1999

Notes from a family reunion

A Speech

Given By William E. Burgess Jr.

At Petrified Springs Park, Somers, Kenosha County, Wisconsin In 1936.

"As this is a little gathering of the Burgess relations, I thought it fitting that you all know something about them. I am going to give you a little biographical sketch of the Burgess' as some of you may not know who you are and where your ancestors came from."

"As near as I can learn they go back about 200 years ago. They were of English decent, coming from Vermont in a very early date, then moving to Oswego County, New York in 1820. Our great grandfather (Benajah Burgess) was a solder in the Revolution of 1775, so you see that any of you ladies that have any Burgess blood in your veins are eligible to join that very honored order called The Daughters Of The Revolution."

"(Benjamin Burgess), our grandfather, with his family moved west to what was to be the state of Wisconsin, then a territory, and settled at the mouth of the Pike River, that famous stream that you see right over there. This was March 5th in 1835 when they arrived making the journey with wagons from New York. On their way they came through that now famous city of Chicago, with a population of nearly 4,000,000 people (1936), which was only a swamp at that time with just a few little shacks built there. They did not think it worth while to get any land anywhere near there then so they went on to what was called Southport, a little village of a dozen families or so, situated at the mouth of the Pike River. This is now the city of Kenosha."

"Grandfather (Benjamin Burgess), after getting settled at Southport, looked the wood over as this part just east of here was all heavy timber. The country being very new, and a great number of people just coming here from the east, and no homes or anything to live in, he decided to start a saw mill which he did on this same Pike River that runs by over there. It was located on that road about a mile east of here where the river crosses that road. This of course was a water power mill (requiring) having to build a dam across the river. This work around the mill was a wet job of course and soon after getting the mill built, he got very wet one day and took pneumonia and died shortly after, at the age of 39 years. The mill was then run by father,(William E. Burgess Sr.) then seven years old and uncle William Foster for a number of years. Father, (William E. Burgess Sr.) then only a young man, and he in those days as boys now do, fell in love to one very pretty young girl by the name of Jane Leet, and in course of time, were married in 1850. The girl being a native of New York and one of the oldest settlers in Kenosha County, came from ? in New York."

"The Leets at that time were living at the same place as now, building that house and kept a tavern or hotel as we would call it now."

"This beautiful natural park where we are today gathered to renew our acquaintances, was a wild forest where the Indians roamed. I have heard mother (Jane Leet Burgess) tell of the Indians coming to their house for something to eat many times. Most of them, of course, were primitive at that time. Also many wild deer were in these woods at that time."

"We are also here in celebration of a little event that took place in the life of one of the family 50 years ago (on the) 14th day of June, 1882 when Charlie (L. Burgess), then a young man, having previously fell in love with one of Somers pretty young girls, was joined in Holy Matrimony to Miss Lizzie Van Alstine at that time. And in honor of this event after 50 years of married life to one woman, I am sure they deserve a celebration of some kind. And with that thought in mind, lead me to invite you all here that we might renew old acquanteses once more all together in a sort of reunion of the family of Burgesses."

"Although there are quite a number of the family that for various reasons could not attend. But just to give you some idea of them all, and those invited, I am going to read you the list of names and I want all of those here to answer; Present."

William E. Burgess family 11 children, 6 boys, 5 girls.

1. Mrs. Mary Burgess Cogswell & husband, both dead, 4 children, 2 boys, 2 girls all living. Mr. Dan Cogswell, ought to be here Mr. Rob Cogswell Mrs. Carrie Cogswell, married Mrs. Nellie Cogswell, married

2. Mrs. Emma Burgess Buswell, Winona, Minnesota, 4 children, 2 living Herd Buswell, deceased Roy Buswell, deceased Frank Buswell, living, married, at Winona Mrs. Cora Buswell, living, married 

3. Mrs. Virginia Burgess, Racine, not married 

4. Charlie Burgess & wife, Kenosha, 1 child married Willie Burgess & wife 

5. Edward C. Burgess & wife, Plymouth, 3 children, 2 living Harold Burgess Alfielal Burgess, in Cael 

6. George F. Burgess & wife, Milwaukee, 2 children Sinclair Burgess & wife Dela Burgess & husband 

7. William E. Burgess & wife, Chicago, children too numerous to mention 

8. Dela Burgess, died when a baby 

9. Hattie Burgess Rease, no children, in Cael 

10. Burdett Burgess & wife, Chicago, Burdett is dead, 6 children, all living Everett Burgess Dorothy Burgess Edith Burgess Henry Burgess George Burgess Nellie Burgess 

11. Robert L. Burgess & wife, Chicago, 2 children dead, Virginia living

"These are all of the grand and great grand children on our fathers side of the house. There are a number of cousins on mothers side. Those here please also answer when their names are called if here."

Mr. Fred Leet Mr. Geo. Leet & wife & family Mr. Edward Leet & wife & family Mrs. Nellie Leet Henning & family

"There were as most of you know only 5 married children of our grandfathers family, 4 boys and 2 girls, one boy dying when young. Of these 5 families were born 28 children in all, of which there are only 14 living. Of these 14, more than one half of them all are in the William Burgess family; 8 of us still living out of a family of 11 children."

"The youngest now - well I guess maybe I hadn't better give his age - but well upwards to 60. Just think, Charlie, at the age of 77 years and never had a ? is a record. This shows what a tuff bunch they all are."

"I have tried to count up how many great grandchildren there are, but maybe I have overlooked or missed some of them, but to the best of my knowledge there are in the neighborhood of 52 , not quite as many as Brigham Young had however."

"Now it may be a little interesting to some of you present to know that we are gathered here today in this beautiful natural Petrified Springs Park on the ground which was once first bought from the U. S. Government by our grandfather Charles Leet. He homesteaded it before it was put on the market for sale by the government in 1836. And that my own father at one time owned a part of this park and that your humble servant was born in a little loghouse that stood over there just west of the entrance to the park."

"Now I do not remember very distinctly the exact day but have been told by persons that lived in those days that it was in war times and that the times were very hard and that everyone was hard up and poor just like now. So you see I have been usta hard times all my life. I think I was the only member of our family to be born in this loghouse as father did not live there many years before he sold and moved out on the prairie as they call it at that time. I can just remember the day we moved with oxen and one team of horses on to the 247 acres of ground just the otherside of the railroad. But there was no railroad there those days. The C, M, & St. P. Ry was built some years after."

"In those days most of you can remember when we usta go to the old cheese factory and to the blacksmith shop over by the bridge across the river; and to the spring by the road that we usta water our horses. The Post Office was then in the blacksmith shop and the mail was brought out there from Kenosha twice a week on horse back; then later on it was moved to the grocery store of Abram Bishof a little farther west on this road, and there remained some time until the railroad came through. A depot was built and called Buroak station which is now Somers. Then the family of Cooks started a grocery store there and the Post Office again moved in their store." "Just after the depot was built there came a young man from the west, sort of a cowboy by the name of Thompson, to look after the affairs of the railroad at this town. And I understand that this same faithful servant is still on the job although this must be nearly 60 years ago. He fell in love also with Edith, one of Somers pretty young ladies and became married and still lives in Somers."

"I do not know much about Somers these days but when I was home on the farm there were many good looking young ladies I usta think and many times I usta bring one of my old sweethearts here and sit in the shade of the old fruit trees that usta stand along this bank where the spring is and drink of the cold refreshing water. There was plenty of the white foaming drink those days at Kenosha and Racine, but it did not touch us as young people seem to drink these days they can't get along without it. There are a few of our old friends and neighbors here to which I am very pleased to meet once more, and I hope you may enjoy this day here, and that it may be a day to look back on with pleasant memories."

These notes were transcribed from a copy of the original hand written notes by:

Robert J. Heck 4910 Steeple Dr. Greendale, WI 53129 (414) 421-7143

Date: January 29, 1994

Items shown in ( ) were added for clarity.

Burgess, Alonzo

Alonzo Burgess
(Photo Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Racine and Kenosha Counties Citizens
Lake City Publishing Co. 1892)

Alonzo Burgess, a pioneer of Kenosha County of 1836, and an early settler of Racine County, now a resident of the City of Racine, was born in East Bennington, Bennington County, Vt., August 27, 1820.  His parents were Benjamin and Rebecca (Chase) Burgess, who were also natives of Bennington County.  His father was a farmer by occupation and was married in his native county.  In 1825 he moved with his family to Oswego County, New York, and settled in the Town of Hannibal where he resided until the spring of 1836 when he emigrated from New York to Wisconsin Territory.  He located on a tract of Government land adjacent to the Village of Southport, now Kenosha, March 5, of that year.  At that time the Territory in which Southport was situated was in Milwaukee County.  In 1836 it was set off as Racine County, and the later division left Kenosha County as it now exists.

Benjamin Burgess was twice married.  His first wife was Rebecca Chase, as given above, and by their union were born four sons and three daughters:  Sylvia died when a young lady; Nehemiah married Sophia Hulbut and both are now deceased; Benjamin wedded Sophia Gardner and is a farmer of Brighton Township; Julia, widow of Nicholas LePoidvine, resides in Beatrice, Nebraska.  After the death of the first wife the father married Amanda Foster by whom he had four children, as follows:  William E., a successful farmer of Somers Township, Kenosha County; Martha, deceased, was the wife of Charles Ticknor; Belinda, widow of Thomas Dow, resides in Racine; Cyrus was drowned at the age of eighteen.  Mr. Burgess was engaged in the saw-mill business until his death, which occurred in March 1838, only two years after locating in Southport.

Alonzo Burgess removed to Oswego County, New York, with his parents when five years of age and came to Wisconsin with them in March, 1836, being then a lad of fifteen years.  Soon afterward he went to work with his uncle, William Foster, with whom he remained five and a half years.  He then engaged in the manufacture of brick near Kenosha and bought a farm of eighty acres in the Town of Somers.  On the 6th July, 1844, he was married in that town to miss Artemesia Kellogg, daughter of Arthur and Armena (Howe) Kellogg.  She was born near Oswego Falls, New York, and was an earnest Methodist in religious faith.  Five children were born of their union:  Adelia A., wife of Richard Warner, of Beatrice, Nebraska; Emeretta who wedded L. Cook of Somers, Kenosha County' Frederick A., who married Cordelia Foster and is a farmer of Mt. Pleasant; Carrie A., wife of E.L. Cook, of Somers, and Martha, who died at the age of eighteen years.   Mrs. Burgess died on the 8th of May, 1863, in the prime of womanhood.

On the 1st of July, 1867, Mr. Burgess was married in Kenosha County, to Miss Mary A. Buswell, who was born in Hopkinton, New Hampshire, February 16, 1829, and is a daughter of Ezra and Judith A. (Judkins) Buswell.  She became a teacher in girlhood, teaching in a High School in Ohio and also in the Kenosha and Racine High Schools.  Her career as a teacher included an experience of many years and was distinguished by superior ability and a conscientious discharge of duty.  She came to Kenosha County with her parents in 1842 when thirteen years of age.  Her father was a highly respected pioneer of that county, was born in Grantham, New Hampshire, April 27, 1793, and died in Paris Township, Kenosha County, November 14 1863.  Her mother was born in Concord, New Hampshire, December 19, 1800, and died in Mt. Pleasant Township, Racine County, February 14, 1876.

Mr. Buswell was a man of more than ordinary ability and of fair scholastic training.  After coming to Wisconsin he took an active part in local affairs, serving several years as Township Supervisor.  His marriage to Miss Judkins occurred in Warner, New Hampshire.  Until his removal Westward he was engaged in conducting a tannery and shoe establishment.  His object in coming to Wisconsin was to locate his sons on farms.  He therefore left New Hampshire in 1842 for Southport, now Kenosha, but the lake was so rough the vessel could not land and hence went on to Chicago.  By team, Mr. Buswell came to Paris Township, where he entered three hundred and twenty acres of land from the government, to which he added by purchase.  He gave the eldest three sons farms, and lived to see all his children become respected members of society.  He had five children, as follows, Moses C., a farmer of Somers Township; Edmund D., a farmer died in 1885; Mary A.; John S., a veteran of the late war, who lost his health in the service, resides in Union Grove, Wisconsin.  In politics Mr. Buswell was a Democrat until the rise of the Republican party, to which he afterward adhered.  Both were members of the Baptist Church, to which society their daughter also belongs.  Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Burgess in the town of Mt. Pleasant, Racine County; M. May, born May 17, 1869, and E. Roy, born September 13, 1872.

Mr. Burgess made his home in the part of Racine County since made into Kenosha County until 1842, when he removed to the present Racine County and purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he increased by subsequent purchase to four hundred and twenty acres.  He became one of the leading farmers of Racine County and was an extensive grower of sheep and Durham cattle,  He continued to conduct his farm until April, 1880, when he removed to Racine City, partly on account of securing better educational advantages for his young children.  He still owns his farm of two hundred and fifty acres which is situated near the southwest corner of the Town of Mt. Pleasant and which is one of the most valuable farms in the county.  He began for himself in life a poor boy and has become one of the substantial men of his township.  His start in life was made by molding brick, at which he worked most industriously.

Mr. Burgess is a Republican in politics and has served two years as Supervisor of Mt. Pleasant Township.  He is a thoroughly practical farmer and has by industry and judicious management accumulated a fine property.  It is now fifty-six years since he became a resident of Wisconsin and his course in life has been distinguished by integrity, honor and fairness in all his relations with his follow- citizens.
(Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Racine and Kenosha Counties Citizens
Lake City Publishing Co. 1892)


Burgess - In The News

"A short time ago Wm. Burgess received a case of honey from his son in law, Clayton Reas of California."
(Racine Weekly June 1, 1899)

"Burdett and Robert Burgess of Chicago are spending a few days at their father's home in the village.
(Racine Daily July 18, 1900)

Mrs. L. Cool and her brother, Fred Burgess, departed for Mt. Clemons, Michigan on Monday, where Mr. Burgess will take treatment for rheumatism.
(Racine Weekly Sept 1, 1895)

Mrs. W.E. Burgess of Chicago had a tumor removed from her left side on Tuesday last.  Her many friends here will be pleased to learn that she is getting alone as well as expected.
(Racine Weekly Jan. 27, 1898)

"A very pleasant reunion was held at the home of William E. Burgess on Christmas Day.  His six sons were home - Charles of Bristol, Edward and his family, Will, Burdette and Robert of Chicago and George and his family of Somers.  The family presented their father with a beautiful upholstered rocker."
(Racine Daily Jan. 1, 1900)

"Robert Burgess went to Chicago Tuesday where he accepted a position with an ice company."
(Racine Weekly May 25, 1899)

"George and Robert Burgess hauled two loads of flax straw to Franksville Thursday morning."
(Racine Daily Feb. 8, 1899)

"Miss Maggie Sinclair and George Burgess were united in marriage at the Presbyterian Church on Thursday afternoon, Rev. Henry Brown officiating."
Racine Weekly Oct. 28, 1897)

"No clue has yet been obtained to the party who placed a baby boy on the steps of Alonzo Burgess."
(Racine Daily Oct. 23, 1900)

"Mr. Fred Burgess is very sick with typhoid fever."
(Racine Daily Oct. 21, 1896)

"George Burgess is moving to the Flett farm which he will work the coming year."
(Racine Journal Jan. 9, 1903)

"Charles Burgess, a resident of the Town of Somers, was very badly injured in this city about 1 o'clock this afternoon.  While attempting to drive his team of horses attached to load of hay on the market back of the chemical engine house, he drove them too near the building,resulting in the wagon capsizing.  Burgess was precipitated on the stone pavement, falling a distance of several feet.  He was picked up unconscious.  Dr. Nott was summoned and after making a temporary examination ordered that the man be taken to the St. Luke's hospital in the patrol wagon.  At the hospital the physician made a complete diagnosis of the case and found him suffering from the effects of a severe concussion.  It is also thought that the man's skull is fractured.  he had not regained consciousness up to three o'clock this afternoon."
(Racine Journal Aug. 13, 1901)

"A brilliant wedding took place at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon April 15, at the home of Mr. Wm. Burgess when his daughter Hattie was united in marriage to Clayton B. Reas in the presence of nearly one hundred friends of the contracting parties.  Miss Edith Lewis acted as bridesmaid and Burdette Burgess, brother of the bride was best man.  As the wedding march was being played by Miss Mae Burgess the bridal party came into the parlor preceded by Rev. George J. Rea and took their places on the white fur ring underneath a handsome arch decorated with evergreens and Easter lilies.  The ceremony was short but impressive, at the close of which the young couple received the party congratulations of their many friends.  The bride was attired in a white India linen gown trimmed in lace and satin ribbons, wore white slippers and carried a bouquet of white Roman hyacinths.  The groom was wearing the same flower.  A rose bowl with daybreak carnations was a beautiful center piece.  The refreshments were delicious and nicely served by young ladies and gentlemen, superintended by Miss Mary Rhodes, in her usual capable manner.
After the supper, music and sociability were participated in, a solo "The Oak Oaken Bucket" was exquisitely rendered by Mrs. Owen (nee Florence Spencer) the audience joining in the chorus.  It was a great pleasure to listen to Somers' former sweet singer again.  Then came the announcement that the young ladies should gather in the front yard as the bride was about to throw her bouquet into the crowd and the young lady fortunate enough to catch it would be the first to be married.  One of our popular young ladies carried off the prize.  The presents were numerous and elaborate, betokening the high esteem in which the young couple are held by their friends.  Mr. and Mrs. Reas left on Friday afternoon April 17 by way of Northern Pacific to Portland, Oregon from which place they will go by ocean steamer to San Francisco; then by rail to Porterville, near which place Mr. Reas owns a fine fruit farm.  The best wishes for their future prosperity and happiness will follow the young people through life's journey."
(Racine Weekly April 23, 1896)









Biehn

Elma Cook Biehn and Frank Biehn
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)

Hazel Biehn in 1917
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)

Hazel Biehn (Perkins) in 1966
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)

Roy and Alan Biehn
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch) 

Elliott Cook and Caroline Burgess Cook
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch) 



The Biehn Family
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)
 

Alan Elliott and Roy F. Biehn, sons of Frank Joseph Biehn and Alma Irene Cook Biehn
Alan Elliott Biehn (1901-1972)
Roy Frank Biehn (1904-1988)
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)



Roy Biehn
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)


 

Roy Biehn
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)


 

Alan, Hazel, Roy Biehn
(Source:  Photo and caption courtesy of Carolyn Biehn Caflisch)

Frances Heidersdorf and Henry Biehn wedding photo
(Source:  Ancestry.com submitted by Beth Christoffel 10-17-2010 on family site)

Biehn
(Note:  Although the Biehn family are pioneers of Paris Township, Kenosha County, this biography is added for those researching the Heidersdorf and Myers families of Somers Township)

Among the well-to-do farmers and stock raisers of Paris Township is Henry Biehn, who owns and operates a valuable farm of eighty acres.  A native of Kenosha County, he was born in Paris Township, on the 1st of November, 1858, and is a son of Henry and Margaret (Myers) Biehn, both natives of Germany, the former born in 1825 and the latter in March, 1836.  The father served for two years in the German army and then came to the United States, as he had heard much concerning the unusually good opportunities offered the young men in this country.

He located in Kenosha County and for several years worked as a farm hand but following his marriage bought eighty acres of land, which he cleared and brought under cultivation as soon as possible.  he built a substantial residence and also erected barns and other buildings and made many improvements upon his farm.  After our subject was married the father bought 120 of land in another part of Paris Township and took up his residence there, where he passed his remaining days, dying in November, 1892.  He was a member of the German Lutheran Church and in all relations of life sought to follow the teachings of Christianity.  In politics, he was a Democrat and held a number of offices, service as Town Chairman, and Assessor of his township.  He was well informed and public-spirited and supported all movements seeking the general welfare.  He had a wide acquaintance throughout the county and was highly respected.  His father,  William Biehn, passed his entire life in the fatherland and gave his attention to farming.

Henry Biehn, Sr., was married in Kenosha County to Miss Margaret Myers, a daughter of George Myers, an early settler of Paris Township, and to this union were born 11 children, of whom nine survive, namely:  George, who is engaged in farming and fruit raising in the State of Washington; Henry; Carrie, the wife of C.E. Heidersdorf, who is foreman in the Belle City shops in Racine; Jacob, a real estate dealer of Milwaukee; Mary, the wife of John Adams, secretary of the YMCA at Fond du Lac; Maggie, who married Otto Schuetz, a farmer of Racine County; Frank, who is conducting a meat market and grocery in Union Grove; Emma, the wife of George Kruescher, a farmer of Paris Township; and John, who is a contractor living in Tacoma, Washington.

Henry Biehn, of this review, attended the district schools in his boyhood and youth and also early became familiar with agricultural work.  After putting aside his textbooks he devoted his entire time to assisting his father until his marriage, which occurred in 1882, when he began farming independently.  In 1888 he purchased the old homestead farm of 80 acres of rich land in Paris Township and he has since tiled it, thus adding to its value.  He has made many other improvements upon the place and takes justifiable pride in keeping everything in a good condition.  He does general farming but gives special attention to the raising of thoroughbred Shropshire sheep.
Mr. Biehn was married in 1882 to Miss Fannie Heidersdorf, a daughter of Christian and Margaret (Meyers) Heidersdorf, early settlers of Somers Township.  Her father is deceased, but her mother is still living at the age of 80 years.  Mr. and Mrs. Biehn have two children:  Camilla, the wife of Charles Fonk of Paris Township; and Howard, at home.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1916)

Oakwood Cemetery Burials, Somers

Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet, USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet, USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

 

Cook - Biehn Marriage
"On Wednesday November 2, Miss Alma Cook, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Cook was united in marriage to Frank Biehn by the Rev. A.M. Sanford of the Rescue Mission, Milwaukee in the presence of a hundred invited guests.  The bride was attended by her sister, Mabel.   The bride has been a successful teacher in Kenosha County; the groom a prosperous farmer and proprietor of the Star Creamery.  They will take a brief wedding trip to Madison.  They will make their home in Paris Township."
(Source:  Racine Journal Nov 9, 1898)

Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet, USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Additional Information
 Some members of the Biehn family are buried at Sylvania Cemetery in Yorkville Township, Racine County.
1.  Heinrich (Henry) Biehn, Sr. was born on December 5, 1827 in Ketzenbach, Rheinbaum, Germany.
2.  He served two years in the German army before coming to America in April of 1851.
3.  Margaret Myers was born March 11, 1836 and she died May 13, 1897.
4.  Henry died November 9, 1895 in Paris Township.
5.  Caroline (Carrie) Biehn was born May 4, 1861.
6.  Jacob Biehn was born April 5, 1863.
7.  John Biehn was born March 3, 1867.
8.  Mary Elizabeth Biehn was born June 17, 1869.
9.  Frank Joseph Biehn was born October 4, 1871.
10.  Margaret Biehn was born January 22, 1873.  She married Otto Schultz June 5, 1895 at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Paris Township.
11.  Emma A. Biehn was born April 17, 1875.  She married George Kreuscher May 25, 1893 at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Paris Township.
(Source:  Sylvania Cemetery records, copyright 1991, Mary Ann Culshaw Falk, and the Sylvania Cemetery Board of Trustees)


Biehn Family "In the News" in Somers
"John W.  Fink sold the east 113 acres of his farm with the buildings to Jacob Biehn.  Mr. Fink retains the west 40 acres."
(Source:  Racine Daily Aug. 16, 1899)

"Mr. and Mrs. George Biehn and family, formerly of Somers, but who have spent a number of years in the State of Washington, arrived in Somers last week and will make Racine their future home."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Mar. 1, 1898)

"Jacob Biehn is out with a new Champion binder."
(Source:  Racine Daily July 31, 1900)

"Jacob Biehn has recovered from his late illness and is able to be out again."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Feb 6, 1900)

"Mr. and Mrs. Frank Biehn spent Thursday at the Pet Stock Show in Chicago and visited with Mr. and Mrs. L.R. Fink at Forest Glen, on their return."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Jan. 29, 1900)

"Somers Mutual Fire Insurance Co. was organized Sept 12, 1873 and commenced business on that date.  Amount of insured in force on Dec. 31, 1899 was $582,355.  Officers elected for year 1900 are:  President, Samuel S. Strong; Secretary Isaac T. Bishop; and Treasurer Jacob Biehn."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Jan. 11, 1900)

"Mr. Jacob Biehn put up a windmill last week for pumping water."
(Source:  Racine Journal Jan 13, 1904)

"Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Biehn placed a new piano in their home Friday afternoon."
(Source:  Mar 21, 1904)

"William E. Tucker, of Sylvania, has sold his two creameries located at Kellogg's Corners and Union Grove, to Frank Biehn, former owner of the Star Creamery and Paris Corners Creamery.  Mr. Biehn will take possession about Aug. 1.  The price paid for the property is said to be $7,000.  Those creameries are admitted to be the finest in the county and the butter supply is taken exclusively by Racine parties.  Mr. Biehn retains the services of the present butter makers."
(Source:  Racine Journal July 24, 1903)

"A doctor was called to attend a very sick horse for Jacob Biehn last week.  The animal has about recovered."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Dec. 26, 1901)

"Mrs. Jacob Biehn was taken to the Sanitarium in Kenosha last week."
(Source:  Racine Weekly March 29, 1904)

"Mrs. Jacob Biehn who lies very low with tuberculosis of the bowels and stomach, was removed to St. Mary's Hospital in Racine."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Aug. 23, 1904)

"Mr. Jacob Biehn will have an auction on Friday this week, November 23."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Nov. 20, 1906)

"Mr. Jacob Biehn is unloading brick at Somers for the foundation of his new barn.  Mr. Biehn moved into his new home Monday afternoon."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Nov 30, 1907)

"Mrs. Louisa Shenkenberg, formerly of Milwaukee and Mr. Jacob Biehn of the Town of Somers were united in marriage at 2 o'clock on Saturday afternoon in the presence of a few relatives and friends.  The Rev. Williams of the Presbyterian Church performed the ceremony.  Mr. and Mrs. Biehn will reside in Somers where they have built a fine residence."
(Source:  Racine Weekly, Nov 13, 1907)

"The creamery station in the Town of Paris just south of Union Grove, belonging to Frank Biehn, was destroyed by fire last night at about eight o'clock causing a loss of about $2,000.  The station was in charge of Mike Perry, who discovered the fire and gave the alarm, but as there was no protection and the fire had gained a headway there was nothing to do but watch it burn.  The station was used by Mr. Biehn for receiving milk from the farmers, and the cream was separated and sent to the Union Grove creamery to be manufactured into butter.  Mr. Biehn was called to the place and will doubtless soon make arrangements for another station there.  There was some insurance on the building."
(Source:  Racine Weekly, Apr. 9, 1907)

"One of the notable weddings of the summer in southern Wisconsin will be the marriage of Miss Mary Biehn, only daughter of Mrs. Margaret Biehn of the Town of Somers, and John W. Adams, general secretary of the Kenosha branch of the Young Men's Christian Association.  The wedding will take place on next Wednesday afternoon, July 9.  More than a hundred guests will be present at the wedding, the guests including many well known Y.M.C.A. men from all parts of the state.  Mr. and Mrs. Adams will go west for a wedding trip and will spend their honeymoon in the shadow of Pike's Peak.  The groom is one of the best known Y.M.C.A. workers.  He was for some time superintendent of the Y.M.C.A. at Ravenswood, Illinois but when new life was given to the Kenosha Association, Mr. Adams came to Kenosha to accept the position of general secretary here.  Through his influence a splendid $25,000 building was built and new interest was aroused in the work of the the Association in Kenosha until at the present time the Association is the third largest in Wisconsin."
(Source:  Racine Weekly, July 8, 1902)

"Gertrude and Dorothy Biehn, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Biehn of Somers, Kenosha County, who disappeared from their home on Monday night, were found in Racine last night and they were not kidnapped from their home.  Gertrude was at the home of O. Parker, 2815 Washington Avenue and Dorothy at the residence of L.K. Sears, 1715 Washington Avenue, where they had secured positions as servants.  After reading in the local papers of the disappearance of the Biehn girls, Messrs. Parker and Sears became suspicious of the two strange girls in their homes and at once communicated with Attorney Peter J. Myers, uncle of the two missing girls, and it was not long before the identity of the girls was established.  Mr. Myers at once notified the parents of the girls where they could be found and the story of kidnapping was exploded.
The two girls made a statement that they believed they were worked too hard on the farm and that disagreements often prevailed between them and their stepmother.  Believing that they could better themselves, the girls decided to leave home and seek to improve their conditions.  Plans were laid for the departure, unknown to their parents and successfully carried out.
On Monday afternoon they packed what clothing they could in two grips.  Early in the evening they entered their rooms.  Waiting until their father and mother were asleep they quietly got out of the house, intending to get the last electric car into Racine, but missed it.  The walked to a brick yard and found the watchman, a colored man, and asked if they could not remain in his shack until morning, explaining that they were going to Racine and missed the car.  Consent was readily given the girls.
When daylight came the girls, appearing to be well supplied with money, offered to pay the colored man for his kindness, but he refused to received pay.  Catching the first electric car north the girls reached Racine early Tuesday morning.  Immediately they searched for employment and were engaged at the Parker and Sears homes, where servants were desired, given fictitious names.  Then came the publication of the disappearance and possible kidnapping and the notification to the uncle Peter J. Myers.  The girls state that they got away from home alone, that no persons assisted them and that there was no man and carriage in the deal at all.  It was simply dissatisfaction at home and a determination to leave.  They are still at the Parker and Sears homes.  Whether the parents will take them home remains to be seen."
(Source:  Racine Journal, Aug. 25, 1908)

Music in Somers

Music in Somers
Somers, from its start and early development, has taken and held a prominent place in the music field.
Perhaps many of us residing in Our Town today have almost forgotten those native sons and daughters whose musical talents added much to the artistic world.
Somers' own prima donna, Miss Charille Runals, known as Lily Runals, was born March 14, 1855.  Her early life was lived on the Runals Homestead, known as the Willowbrook farm in Our Town, and attended school at District No. 2, now Hillcrest School.
In early life she developed a sweet soprano voice and following her graduation from the Kenosha High School, she studied voice in Ohio, later going to New York, where she rapidly rose in public favor as a singer and poetic reader, and soon joined the Metropolitan Opera.  She charmed vast audiences with her rendition of her own arrangement of "The Sky Pilot", "Black Rock", and other beautiful stories.  As she sang the beautiful sacred songs and those immortal hymns, she made a lasting impression on her hearers.  Many of the older people of Our Town may recall when this prima donna came home on a visit and gave a concert at the Methodist Church.  Her rendition of "The Holy City" on this occasion has never been forgotten by those who listened.  She sleeps in a cemetery in Washington, D.C.
Florence Spencer Owen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ambrose Spencer, who came from the East in the early days, was  a school teacher, a teacher of music and was talented with a sweet soprano voice that thrilled her hearers for years.
The Jordan family was a family of music.  Miss Ann Jordan, a singing school leader, started many young people on a musical career.
John G. Mitchell, a son of a sturdy Scotch family, who came early, was a baritone of renown.  One of his favorite solos was "Rocked In The Cradle of The Deeps."  For years he was leader in the male and mixed quartet's Somers was so proud of.  He was a singing school master and started many of our young people in the music world.
And so on down the decades, our people have added much to the field of music.  The descendants of those pioneers are carrying on in the field of music - Mrs. Mabel Yule Longmore, Jay W. Rhodes, Mrs. Mabelle Cook Rhodes, Mrs. Eunice Bradley Bullamore, Mrs. Elizabeth Flett Felton."
(Source:  Photo of Lily Runals and information above, My Memoirs by Minnie A.G. Ozanne.  Copyright 1948 - Minnie A.G. Ozanne.  All Rights Reserved.)

(Source: Photo of Lily Runals and information above, My Memoirs by Minnie A.G. Ozanne. Copyright 1948 - Minnie A.G. Ozanne. All Rights Reserved.)

Somers Band Stand - Mitchell Park
Our first park was in the Village of Somers, and for many years band concerts and social activities were enjoyed at "The Mitchell Park" where a fine band stand was built.  The Third Somers Brass Band, under the direction of John G. Mitchell, and these musicians, Fred W. Leet, Adam Lytle, Robert and Burdette Burgess, Elmer Cooper, Sherman Gibbon, Anton Nelson, William Munroe, Maurace Gould, Delbert Bishop, and Ray Mitchell, the drummer boy, offered many fine entertainments.
Ray Mitchell later became leader of an Illinois State Military Band.  A story of the first and second bands organized in Somers is not available.

(Source: My Memoirs by Minnie A.G. Ozanne. Copyright 1948 - Minnie A.G. Ozanne. All Rights Reserved.)

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)

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.

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)