Somers Civic Association

First Officers of Somers Civic Association
Circa July 1947
(Source:  Original photo and identification courtesy of C.C. Ruthe.)

Sitting Left to Right:  George McClure, M.M. Meldahl, C.C. Ruthe, Earl Yule
Standing Left to Right:  Frank Newman, Archie Neysmith, Hugh Cox, Vernon Waltersdorf

1967 New Town Hall

New Town Hall 1967
Somers officials of pioneer families:  Edquist, Newman, Leet
(Source:  Kenosha News December 1,1967)

New Town Hall 1967
Somers officials Bishop, Ebener, Huck
(Source: Kenosha News December 1,1967)

Rogers

William Rogers
William Rogers belongs to that quota of substantial citizens that England has furnished to Kenosha County.  He was born in Cornwall on the 15th of August, 1840 a son of William and Ann (Johns) Rogers, who in the year 1850 crossed the Atlantic with their family to the United States.  They first settled in northern Michigan and afterward removed to Kenosha County, where their remaining days were passed.  Mr. Rogers died in 1892, having for a decade survived his wife, whose death occurred in 1882.  Both were laid to rest in one of Kenosha's cemeteries.
William Rogers was a little lad of ten years when he accompanied his parents to the new world and in the mines of northern Michigan he was employed about twelve years.  In the spring of 1866 he came to Kenosha County and for three years was engaged in farming in Somers Township in connection with his father.  On the expiration of that period he went to Colorado and for three years worked in the mines, after which he again came to this state and once more resumed agricultural pursuits in connection with his father on Section 22, Somers Township.  Later, however, he purchased eighty acres of land known as the Newman place and to this tract he has added as his financial resources have permitted until he is now the owner of one hundred and fifty-seven acres.  He has brought his farm under a high state of cultivation and it is an attractive property by reason of its well tilled fields, its excellent buildings and the high grade of stock seen upon the farm.
On the 22nd of May 1876, Mr. Rogers was united in marriage to Miss Mary S. Buswell, daughter of Moses C. and Lucy Jane (Gardner) Buswell, who were early settlers of this county, arriving here in 1843.  The father was born in New Hampshire in 1823 and the mother's birth occurred in the state of New York in 1821.  They were married on the 3rd of September, 1843, and they became the parents of eleven children, seven of whom are yet living, although only Mrs. Rogers resides in Kenosha County.  A son, Otto F. Buswell, died here in April 1916.  The father was a Republican in his political views and was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church.  his was a well spent life and his many sterling traits of character endeared him to many friends, who gave him their confidence and warm regard.
Mr. and Mrs. Rogers have become the parents of nine children:  Lottie, who is married to John W. Hansche, by whom she has three children; Elizabeth, the wife of Louis C. Haven by whom she has two children; William C., at home; Malvina Bess, who married Marion Davis, by whom she has two children; Harry; John and Lucy Jane, at home; Walter, deceased; and Alvin who is also yet under the parental roof.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha Wisconsin, Record of Settlement, by Frank H. Lyman, Volume II, Chicago, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

Barns of Somers

The Nicholas Thomas Barn
Wood Road, unpaved, in front of barn.
(Source:  Original photo courtesy of the Robert Thomas Family)

Introduction
One way we can document the settlement of Somers Township is knowing when our pioneers built houses and barns.  We know by the biographical sketches I have provided in this blog, settlers in the early 1830's built log cabins and lean shelters as their first homes and shelters.  These structures provided temporary shelter while our first settlers cleared the land so planting could begin.  Once the pioneer became settled and earned money, a more modern and permanent house and barn were constructed.
When were the barns in Somers Township built? 
To answer that question I researched the "Neighborhood News" columns, published by the Racine Journal News or Racine Daily Journal.  The "Neighborhood News" column was written by Minnie Ozanne, the news reporter that represented Somers. This list represents information I could find - not a complete list.  The date in parenthesis represents the date the post was published in the newspaper.

Who built the barns?
Most of the barns in this area were built by Mr. Lauer or Mr. Yule. They also were Somers pioneers and you may find their biographical sketches in this blog of interest.

What makes old barns so appealing?
Could it be that it represents a hardworking, gritty way of life.  A visit inside an old barn immediately draws you in and captures a way of life that no longer exists.  The hand hewn timbers, the smell, the odds and ends that have been hanging on a old nail for the past eighty years all peak the interest of those who visit a barn.  Somers Township, still today, has some fine examples of old barns.

I would welcome an invitation to take photographs of some of our old pioneer barns still standing, inside and out. This is the perfect place to preserve and share history.

Somers Barns

Anderson (05-05-1908) "M.A. Anderson received a car load of lumber for a new barn. William Lauer will do the carpenter work."

Anderson (04-18-1911) "M.A. Anderson had a large barn raising Monday morning.  This barn, when completed, will be one of the largest in this section of the county.  Mr. and Mrs. Rasmussen served dinner to about 40 men."

Barrows (01-06-1905) "Jacob Barrows has received a car load of brick for a basement under his barn."

Biehn (03-15-1907) "Jacob Biehn is unloading brick at Somers for the foundation of his new barn."

Biehn (05-23-1917) "Henry Biehn had a barn raising Friday.  50 neighbor assisting.  William Lauer has the contract."

Boelter (03-02-1906) "Mr. Herman Boelter has received his lumber for a new barn he will build in the spring."

Bohm (03-29-1904) "August Bohm is drawing sand from Kenosha for the foundation of his new barn."

Bush (03-21-1901) "Emory Bush received two car loads of  lumber last week for his new barn."

Bush (05-30-1901) "Emory Bush's barn was raised Thursday afternoon."

Chaffee (06-13-1900) "William Miller is drawing stone from Mr. Chaffe's farm for the foundation of his new barn."

Christensen (05-23-1917) "A barn dance will be held at Theodore Christensen's new barn on Saturday evening."

Corbett (09-15-1914) "James Due of Racine is building the foundation of Thomas Corbett's new barn."

Drew (09-21-1909) "Eric Jensen met with a distressing accident Monday afternoon while at work on William Drew's new barn. It seems while he, with other carpenters, were moving a barrel of oil which slipped and his hand was caught between the building and barrel. Two fingers were badly crushed. Dr. Belting put four stitches in one finger and three in another."

Fink (02-24-1921) "Edward Fink expects to build another new barn."

Fink (10-31-1911) "Edward Fink is building a new barn.  William Lauer and his force of carpenters are doing the work on the County Line Road."

Gitzlaff (03-27-1907) "Mr. August Gitzlaff received a car load of lumber last week for his new barn.  The barn will be 30 x 70.  B.F. Yule has the contract for the building."

Gross (04-06-1909) "William Lauer and his carpenters are building a barn for William Gross."

Hamilton (08-16-1909)  "William Lauer and George Hamilton visited Chicago recently where Mr. Hamilton will purchase lumber for his new house."

Hansche (05-16-1899) "Carpenters are at work at the Hansche Bros. storehouse."

Hughes (02-08-1911) "Marvin Hughes had a large barn raising Tuesday afternoon.  William Lauer and his carpenters are doing the work.  Mr. Hughes will build an addition to his house this spring."

Jensen (05-07-1914) "Chris A. Jensen had a barn raising on Saturday afternoon.  About 35 of his neighbors and friends were there to assist.  A bountiful dinner was served after the raising.  Erick Jensen is doing the carpenter work."

Knudsen (03-27-1903) "Hans Knudsen has completed his barn and as soon as the weather permits he will begin building his new house."

Leet Bros. (09-07-1910) "The Leet Bros. are hauling lumber from Racine for anew barn they expect to build this spring.  B.F. Yule and Fred Heddle have the contract for carpenter work."

Lichter (10-9-1912) "George Lichter is going to build a new barn on the farm he recently purchased, known as the Soens farm.  William Lauer has the contract on the carpenter work."

Mutchie (05-10-1910) "John Mutchie had a big barn raising Thursday forenoon.  About 75 men was present and assisted in the raising.  At noon a bounteous repast was served.  Mr. Mutchie will have one of the largest and most convenient barns in this vicinity when it is finished."

Newman (06-30-1898) "A large company of men aided at the barn raising at Mrs. Marcia Newman's on Monday afternoon.  Tables were set and a bountiful supper was served."

Pedley (02-21-1902) "John Pedley is hauling lumber from Racine for a new cattle barn."

Porter (11-06-1898)  "The barn on the Porter farm is undergoing repairs.  B.F. Yule is doing the work."

Rhodes (01-05-1909) "Mr. Jay Rhodes had a barn raising Wednesday."

Lavin (04-13-1906) "Mr. Lavin is drawing lumber from Racine for a new barn."

Lee (12-21-1906) "Rollie Lee expects a barn raising Friday afternoon."

Leet (06-07-1901 "Mrs. Jessie Leet had her barn raising Saturday."

Leet (04-06-1909) "The Leet Bros. are hauling lumber from Racine for a new barn they expect to build in the spring. B.F. Yule and Fred Headie have the contract for the carpenter work."

Lichter (04-10-1914) "Mr. Frank Lichter built a new barn.  Will Lauer and his men did the carpenter work."

Miller (05-31-1900) "Wm. Miller received two car loads of lumber for his new barn last week."

Miller (06-27-1900) "Dan Pedley began work on Wm. Miller's new barn Tuesday. B.F. Yule and F. Heddle are building a large barn at Milburn, Illinois."

Miller (07-17-1900) "Wm. Miller barn raising will happen today."

Mutchie (05-10-1910) "John Mutchie had a big barn raising Thursday afternoon.  About 75 men were present and assisted in the raising.  At noon, a bouteous repast was served.  Mr. Mutchie will have one of the largest and most convenient barns in this vicinity when it is finished."

Ozanne (06-16-1905) "Pierre and L.E. Ozanne received a car load of lumber for their new barn last week.  B.F. Yule will do the carpenter work."

Ozanne (07-04-1895) "Perhaps it would be a little interesting to the readers of this journal, especially to those of the eastern part of Kenosha County to know that the first barn ever built in the Town of Somers was until recently, still in existence.  The barn was built about the year 1838, and now owned by E.G. Ozanne, who has taken it down, using some of the hard wood timbers for a new building.  On June 18, 1842, James Ozanne and family arrived at Racine from the Isle of Guernsey and on July 4th following, purchased the farm of 335 acres, on which the barn stood.  The farm was afterward's divided up into three."

Rasmussen (02-25-1907) "Matt Rasmussen received a carload of lumber on Monday morning for a new barn to be erected on farm No. 2.  The building is to be 54 x 40.  William Lauer will do the work."

Rasmussen (07-29-1920) "William Lauer and his force of carptenters are building a barn on the M.A. Rasmussen north farm."

Rasmussen (12-08-1905) "Mr. Martin Rasmussen is building an addition to his barn.  William Lauer is doing the carpenter work."

Smith (05-02-1911) "Samuel Smith is building a new barn iin which a large dance will be held next month."

Spencer (09-15-1910) "James E. Spencer received a car load of crushed stone last week for the concrete work in the new barn he recently built."

Spencer (10-27-1910) "James E. Spencer is having concrete floors built in his barn."

Swartz (07-18-1911) "William Lauer and his carpenters will soon begin work on a barn for Jacob Swartz."

Thompson (06-23-1916) "Thompson Bros. are building a large barn.  William Lauer and his force of carpenters are doing the work."

Woodward (06-10-1914) "Woodward Bros. are hauling gravel for their new barn."

Yonk (02-24-1921) "John Yonk is installing a water system in his dairy barn."

1859 Somers Town Hall

1859 original Somers Town Hall
located on the original site - Highway 31 and Highway E
The background is the Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photograph Courtesy of Kenosha County Historical Society)

History
"Somers records show that the first meeting in the old Town Hall was held on April 5, 1859, but for 16 years prior to that, town meetings were held at the home of Charles Leet, great-grandfather of Leverett Leet, Somers Treasurer (1967).  As of 1967, Leet still resided in the historic family home on Highway 31.
The carefully kept minutes of the first town meetings in the Leet home were dated May 1, 1843.  Town officials were elected at that first meeting, and major business including the adoption of fines for letting stallions run at large.  Town officials were voted a salary of 75 cents per day for their services, and the board appropriated $25 for the poor.
Somers was known as the Town of Pike at that time and was included in Racine County.  The first mention of Kenosha in the records was in 1850, according to Frank Newman, Somers Town Clerk.  A division was made in the counties but no reason is given for the change.  It was at about this time that the Racine Courthouse burned down, and many records were destroyed.
The name Pike was changed to Somers in 1851, but, again, the records do not give any reason for the change, Newsman said.
The elder Leet's home was a stage stop and inn, a stop-over point for travelers bound for Milwaukee and Green Bay.  The house was apparently a natural meeting point for the town board, but eventually members recognized the need of some sort of town hall.
At the annual meeting of 1857, a committee was named to secure a permanent lease to use the basement of the Presbyterian Church across from the Leet home for meetings.  This proved unfeasible and a number of special meetings followed to consider plans for building a town hall.
After a period of turmoil, during which building plans were adopted and rescinded, another committee selected the Highway 31 site.  The land was donated by Billy smith, who gave three-quarters of an acre for the town hall and the adjoining property for a cemetery (Oakwood Cemetery).
The board met at the Charles Leet home as usual on April 5, 1859, but before any business was transacted, a motion was made to adjourn the meeting to the new town hall.  Members then walked to the new building and began its official use which continued for 108 years until the final session on September 11, 1967."
(Source:  Kenosha News article , December 1, 1967)

(Source:  The Kenosha News, September 12, 1967)

1859 original Somers Town Hall
Moved and meticulously restored on a new site 1 mile to the north of the original site
at Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary & Arboretum
(Source:  Photograph Courtesy of Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson)

Rennovation
"Now that the old building has been moved to a new home, it will be restored to its original condition, removing any of the modernizing features which been added during the years.  Contractor Peter Ploskee, who will do the restoration work, reported that he was "amazed" at the sound condition of the old structure."
(Source:  Kenosha News article, December 1, 1967)

1859 original Somers Town Hall - Side View
located at Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum
(Source:  Photograph Courtesy of Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson)

1859 original Somers Town Hall
Interior View
(Source:  Photograph Courtesy of Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson)

1859 original Somers Town Hall
Interior View
(Source:  Photograph Courtesy of Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson)

1859 original Somers Town Hall
Interior View
(Source: Photograph Courtesy of Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson)

1859 original Somers Town Hall
Interior View - Voting Booths
(Source: Photograph Courtesy of Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson)

Bullamore

Bullamore Bros. General Store and Post Office in the "village" of Somers, Wisconsin
c. 1937
Photo Courtesy of Kenosha County Historical Society, Kenosha, Wisconsin

Bullamore Bros. General Store in the "village" of Somers, Wisconsin
c, 1905
Photo Courtesy of Kenosha County Historical Society, Kenosha, Wisconsin

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James H. Bullamore
c. 1890-1940
Photo Courtesy of Kenosha County Historical Society, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Photo Contributor Milwaukee Sentinel

"James H. Bullamore and his brother, Albert E. Bullamore, were proprietors of the general store in the town of Somers for almost fifty years, from 1890 to 1940.  The brothers devised a homemade burglar alarm system in 1925 to protect the store from theft.  The system was quite efficient; the brothers caught seven burglars and shot and killed the eighth.  Albert was Postmaster of Somers; the brother retired from the general store business in 1940."

Learn more about the Bullamore brothers!

There is a reason why the stories are still told by old-time locals about these two fellows.
Read and enjoy.

(Source: Racine Journal Times publication August 3, 1940)

"The Bullamore brothers, owners of one of the last country general stores in this area, are retiring from business.   And burglars all over the land will draw a sigh of relief, for the brothers have captured nine men who have tried to rob their store in the past 15 years.
Success in burglar-nabbing is due to the efficiency of the Bullamore home-made burglar alarm, connected by wires with the Bullamore home. As soon as the alarm sounds in James’ room, both brothers leap out of bed and grab their guns. A flip of a switch on the side of the house floods the store with light.
Three years ago James shot and killed an intruder who ignored a command to halt. One other burglar was a victim of James’ marksmanship, and, although critically injured, the man survived and was sent to Waupun. Only one thief has escaped the Bullamores, while eight others have been captured and sent to prison. Their most recent capture was on June 26 of this year, when the brothers caught a man leaving the rear of the store after the alarm sounded. Not a shot was fired.
Frequent raids on the Bullamore store is explained by the fact that the building is near a railroad line and offers a tempting mark for transients who ride the rods or occupy side door Pullmans.
James H. Bullamore and Alfred E. Bullamore have owned their store in Somers for nearly 41 years, and now, primarily because of failing health, are selling out. Clearing out of stock began on May 1 of this year, and will continue, they say, until there is nothing left to sell.
The Bullamore store was begun over 50 years ago in Winthrop, Illinois. James Bullamore and a partner named Truesdale owned a concern called “Truesdale and Bullamore” a concern which soon was moved to Spring Bluff, Illinois, where it stayed for 10 years. Then James moved to Somers and joined his brother in establishing the present store.
The store itself is typical of the mercantile establishment once found in very small town and rural community. Pitchforks and straw hats vie for space on the counters with copper rivets and cans of peas. Several of the top shelves are empty now, and the long table running down the center of the store carries less merchandise than ever before.
In addition to his duties in the store, Alfred served as Postmaster of Somers. The Post Office is located at the back of the store and will continue in operation, Alfred says, after the store has gone out of business. We have not decided yet, he said, where the Post Office will stay where it is or whether we will remodel the back of the store and use that, but at any rate, I will continue as Postmaster.
During their 40 years as residents of Somers, the Bullamore’s have observed many changes in the community. Most of the old folks who were here when we came are gone now, James said. The community has progressed much as other communities do, finding new and better ways of doing things all the time.
And with that remark, he retired to the Post Office counter to fill out a money-order blank for a customer."

In the News

"Bullamore Bros. are building an addition of 20 feet onto the store.  Benjamin Serry and Henry Howarth are doing the concrete work.  William Lauer will do the carpenter work."

(Source:  Racine Journal, April 28, 1915)

 

Siver - Bullamore Wedding

"On Wednesday afternoon, October 31, a very pretty home wedding was solemnized at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Siver of Racine, when their daughter, Miss Lottie Siver, was united in marriage to James H. Bullamore of this village.  The Rev. George Mitchel of Chicago, the bride's uncle officiating.  About seventy-five friends and relatives of the contracting parties were present.  After the hearty congratulations of their friends and a dainty wedding feast, the happy couple departed south for a brief wedding trip.  The display of the wedding fits was both beautiful and useful.  The bride is an estimable young lady and has been a teacher in northern Illinois a number of years.  The groom is a young man of  quality and conducts a store of general merchandise in our village.  Mr. and Mrs. Bullamore will make their home in the village."

(Source:  Racine Daily Nov 7, 1900)

Miss Clara S. Bullamore marriage to Edward E. Pearson

"A very pretty home wedding was that of Miss Clara S. Bullamore to Mr. Edward E. Pearson of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, on Thursday evening August 30, at the home of the bride's father in this village.

Rev. E.D. Kohlstat officiated.  Only the immediate friends of the bride and groom were present.  The house was beautifully decorated.  The display of wedding presents was both costly and beautiful.  The bride has been a successful teacher in the schools of Northern Illinois for some years, and is a sister of the Bullamore Bros. who keep a store in the village.  Mr. and Mrs. Pearson will be at home after Sept 12 at Winthrop Harbor, Illinois.  Mr. James Bullamore of Milwaukee and Mrs. and Mrs. G.A. Truesdell of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois were among the guests who attended the wedding of Miss Bullamore and Mr. Pearson on Thursday evening."

(Source:  Racine Daily September 5, 1900)

Grant Bullamore

Grant Bullamore, who carries on general farming on Section 29, Somers Township, has throughout his entire life been identified with agricultural interests in that locality.  He was born in 1864, in the Township in which he still resides, his parents being William and Susan (Gray) Bullamore, the latter a daughter of James Gray, who was born in Scotland.  The father was born in 1839 in New York state and came west with his parents to Pleasant Prairie Township, Kenosha County.  He married Susan Gray in 1863 and they became the parents of two sons.

Spending his youthful days under the parental roof, Grant Bullamore attended the common schools until seventeen or eighteen years of age and in the summer seasons aided in the work of the home farm.  When his textbooks were put aside he concentrated his efforts on the farm work, to which he has since devoted his energies.  He is busily engaged in the further development and cultivation of the farm, his efforts resulting in the harvesting of food crops.  He displays energy and determination in all that he undertakes and his activities result in success.  The improvements upon the place have been largely put there by him and the farm now presents a most neat and attractive largely put there by him and the farm now presents a most neat and attractive appearance, indicating the careful supervision of a practical and progressive owner.

Mr. Bullamore married Miss Clara Barter, and to them have been born three children; Will, Evelyn, and Everett.  The family are well known in Somers Township where Mr. Bullamore has now resided for more than a half century.

(Source:  The City and County of Kenosha Wisconsin Vol II Chicago S.J. Clarke Publishing Cop 1916)

Partial 1899 Map of Somers Township
Bullamore Parcels

Bullamore - Roddle

Mary Ann Roddle Bullamore (Mrs. James Bullamore)
(Source:  Original photo courtesy of Robert Swartz)
(Note:  James Bullamore is the great-great grandfather of Robert Swartz.)
(Note:  Oren Bullamore (see photo below) is the great grandfather of Robert Swartz.)

Mrs. Mary A. (Roddle) Bullamore, born in Lincolnshire, England in 1813,  was descended from Anna Marie "Mary" H. (1796-1884) Roddle and Stephen Roddle (1798-1873), an Englishman, who was the overseer of a big farm in England. In 1838 he crossed the Atlantic, settled in Utica, New York, until 1843, and then went West to Wisconsin.  After a few years in Pleasant Prairie Township he moved to McGatt's Corners in Racine County, from which place he again moved to Sparta, Wisconsin where he died well advanced in years.  His wife, Ann Roddle, bore him a large family and lived to the age of eighty-eight.

Mary A. Roddle Bullamore died December 9, 1889 in Kenosha County, the mother of five sons and two daughters.  Those who survived are:  Ellen, widow of Newcomb Waldo of Bristol Township, Kenosha County; Maria, Mrs. Moses Johnson, of the same Township; Charles A., of Cass County, N. Dakota; and Henry L.

(Note:  Stephen Roddle and Anna Marie "Mary" H. were married June 28, 1814 in March, Cambridge, England.  Stephen and Anna Marie "Mary" died in Sparta, Monroe County, Wisconsin.    More information is available in the "History of Waseca County, Wisconsin" and other family sites on Ancestry.com.)

(Note:  A biography of William Henry Roddle is available:  "History of South Dakota" by Doane Robinson, Vol. II (1904), pages 1469-1470.  William Henry Roddle was born December 28, 1850 in Kenosha County and was the son of William and Mary Roddle.  It appears this family moved from Wisconsin in 1860.  This may provide additional information for families searching the Roddle name.)

James Bullamore was born in Lincolnshire, England in 1809, son of Henry L. and Mary A. Roddle Bullamore.

Children of James and Mary A. Roddle Bullamore

Ellen B. (1834-1911)

Maria (1837-1915)

William F. (1839-1876)

Orrin (Oren) (1844 - ?)

Charles A. (1849-1928)

Henry L. (1855-1943)

Unknown (The Kenosha County 1906 Commenorative Biographical Record for Bullamore states that Mary and James had five boys and two daughters.  The 5th boy is unknown).

James Bullamore

by Robert Swartz, Feb. 2, 2012

 ENGLAND
James was the first Bullamore in our family to come to America. His tombstone records that he was born November 2, 1808 and he died July 24, 1886. A biography of his son, Henry (Beers, J.H. Co., 1906), indicates that James was from Lincolnshire, England. As stated in the discussion of John and Catherine Bullamore, their son James, was recorded as having been born on Nov. 3, 1809, in Cambridgeshire. I believe that the James who was my ancestor was the same as the one who was listed as the son of John and Catherine. There is no proof, however the similarity of the birth dates is remarkable and I think there is evidence that the birth date listed on the tombstone of James is wrong.
The problem of Cambridge versus Lincoln is not a great one. The two counties are adjacent. Many Americans are born in one place and move to another. It is even possible to be born in one place and live in another, without really moving. Another possible explanation deals with the accuracy of the information relating to our James Bullamore. As stated above, his tombstone indicates that he was born on November 2, 1808 and the information on the Cambridgeshire James indicates that he was born one year and one day later. Beers (1906) also indicated that James was born in 1809, not 1808. In the 1850 Federal census, our James listed has age as 40. He was listed as 50 and 60 on the two subsequent censuses. This suggests that he was born in 1809, rather than 1808. If he were born in November, 1808, he would have been 41 years old when the 1850 census was taken. If the information about when he was born was slightly inaccurate, it would be equally possible that information about where he was born could also be wrong.

AMERICA
James Bullamore came to America in 1835. Beers (1906) indicated that the parents of James died "...when quite young, leaving a number of children." This article indicates that James spent his first seven years in America at Utica, N.Y. The residence in Utica has never been confirmed but, according to the 1840 Federal census, there was a James Bullamore living in Seneca Falls, Seneca County, N.Y. The 1840 census did not list the names of anyone except the head of the household. Other members of a family were categorized by gender and age groupings. The gender and age characteristics of the Seneca Falls James Bullamore family perfectly matches the gender and age characteristics of our James Bullamore family, living in Wisconsin later.

1840 Federal Census of Seneca Falls, NY

1850 Federal Census of Paris Township, Kenosha, WI

James Bullamore Household     
Male - b. 1800-1810 James Bullamore - b. 1810
Male - b. 1835-1840 William - b. 1839

Female - b. 1810-1820 Mary Ann - b. 1814

Female - b. 1830-1835 Ellen - b. 1834
Female - b. 1835-1840 Maria - b. 1836

An article about Moses Johnson (Portrait and Biographical Record, 1892) contains some information about his father-in-law, James Bullamore. It indicates that he was one of the early settlers of Cayuga County, N.Y. The Cayuga County boundary is within about five miles of Seneca Falls, in Seneca County, N.Y.

Beers (1908) indicated that James moved to Wisconsin in 1842 and spent several years in Pleasant Prairie Township. The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties (1879) included an item about James' son, Charles A. Bullamore. It said, "...his father having located in Kenosha County, town of Somers in 1844 and engaged in farming."

He is listed in the 1860 federal census of the Town of Paris, Kenosha County. He was listed as a farmer. His wife and four children were living with him. In the 1870 census his wife and only his son, Henry, were living with him.

LAND PURCHASES
The first known purchase of land by James Bullamore was recorded on Feb. 9, 1852, when he purchased 110 acres in Section 23 of Paris Township from Flavel Blackman. There is another document that relates to this transaction that is dated Sept. 10, 1852. I think it may constitute a quit-claim deed. It states:
 "Know all men by these presents that I William Blackman of the County of Kenosha in the State of Wisconsin, am held an firmly bound unto James Bullamore of the same place, in the sum of One Hundred dollars, to be paid to said Bullamore his executors, administrators or assigns, to which payment well and truly to be made. I bind myself my heirs executors and administrators, firmly by these present. Sealed with my seal, Dated this tenth day of September 1852.

Whereas my Son Flavel Blackman is about to sell and convey to said Bullamore in fee simple, by deed bearing date Feb. 9th 1852 the following tract of land to wit: [a legal description of the land] And whereas said land has been sold on account of the taxes not having been paid upon the same and a conveyance thereof has been made by the authority of the county of Racine: and whereas said Bullamore is afraid that said last mentioned sale and conveyance may affect his title - in case he should purchase the same from said Flavel: Now I hereby agree to indemnify and save harmless said Bullamore against said last mentioned sale and conveyance and all costs expenses which he may incur in defending the title of said land against the same:"
 On October 14, 1853, he registered the purchase of 40 acres from Ephraim Perkins in the same section. On October 30, 1860, he bought 80 acres from John Le Poidevin in Somers Township. This was his first purchase outside Paris Township and signaled his eventual total move to Somers.

On January 24, 1866, he purchased 80 acres from Samuel Devereaux. This land is in Section 2 of Somers and is not near the land he bought from Le Poidevin. It is located at what is now the intersection of Highway 31 (Green Bay Road) and Kenosha County KR (County Line Road). This purchase is puzzling because there was no known family tradition of Bullamore ownership in that area. It is also puzzling because the record indicates that it was 80 acres but the boundary description does not seem to describe an area that large. Also, James bought the land in 1866 but, in the 1861 plat mat, Devereaux is not shown as being the owner and the property lines don't match with the James Bullamore purchase. James is not shown as the owner of the land on the 1873 plat map. More research is necessary about this purchase.

On March 15, 1865, James purchased the land that would be considered the home farm for the next 100 years. He bought 469 acres from Joseph Newman in Sections 30 and 31 in the Town of Somers. The record isn't real clear, but it would appear that James made another land purchase in Paris Township on March 16, 1874. On July 25, 1878, a man named Daniel Head signed a warrantee deed selling 200 acres in Sections 14 and 15, of Paris Township, to James' son, Henry. On the deed there is reference to, "...a land contract made to James Bulamore March 16th A.D. 1874 and by his request..." On April 12, 1879, James signed a quit claim deed to Henry, for one dollar, for the same property. It would appear that perhaps James bought the land in 1874, Henry took over the contract in 1878, and James signed the quit claim, to give Henry clear title, in 1879. If this interpretation is correct, James owned about 900 acres of land in the mid-1870s. Beers (1906) indicated that James owned 900 acres. 

On January 11, 1873, James sold most of his Somers land (244 acres) to his son, Orin. In 1885, it would appear that James and Mary Ann probably disposed of most of the rest of their land. On June 9, 1885, they sold ten acres in Paris Township to Orin, "...in consideration of the sum of one dollar and in further consideration of love and affection...". On the same date, they sold 220 acres to Henry, "...for the sum of $2,900 and a certain bond this day given them and natural love and affection...". James died about a year later, on July 24, 1886. He is still listed as the owner of 40 acres, in Section 20 of the Town of Somers, on the 1887 plat map.

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION

In the 1850 Census of Agriculture, Jame Bullamore was at his Paris farm and is listed as having 80 improved acres and 80 unimproved acres. The cash value of his farm was $2,400. The value of his implements was $80. He had 2 horses, 11 milk cows, 2 oxen and 7 other cattle. He had 5 pigs and the total value of his animals was $525. He produced 800 bu. of wheat, 60 bu. of corn, and 500 bu. of oats. He grew 20 bu. of potatoes and 10 bu. of barley. His cattle produced 800 lbs. of butter and he grew 50 tons of hay. The value of animals slaughtered was $24.

At the time of the 1860 Census of Agriculture, James owned land in both Paris and Somers Townships. I only have information of the Somers farm. At that time, he owned 40 improved acres and 100 unimproved acres. The cash value of the farm was $4,000 and the value of his implements was $200. He had 4 horses, 10 milk cows, 2 oxen, 15 other cattle, 2 sheep and 8 pigs. The value of his livestock was $600. In 1859, he produced 480 bu. of wheat, 200 bu. of corn, 150 bu. of oats and 80 bu. of barley. He also produced 60 bu. of potatoes, 46 tons of hay and 1,100 lbs. of butter. While it may seem humble, by today's standards, it was a fairly prosperous farm. In 1860, it was the most valuable of the six family farms, in my various family lines, that I have researched.

In the 1870 Census of Agriculture, the value of James' Somers farm had increased to $10,750. He now had 230 acres of improved land and only 8 acres were unimproved. He also paid-out $800 in wages in 1869. He still had only 4 horses but he now had 20 milk cows. He had 6 pigs and the value of his livestock was $1,381. He produced 400 bu. of wheat, 300 bu. of corn and 145 bu. of barley. He produced 100 bu. of potatoes, 80 tons of hay and 2,400 lbs. of butter. The value of animals slaughtered was $415 and the total value of all farm produce was $2,004.

He was listed in the 1875 Kenosha County Directory on page 223 of the Town of Paris. He was listed as a farmer who owned 430 acres in Section 23.

THE DEATH OF JAMES

An obituary in the Kenosha Telegraph (7-30-1886), said, "Bristol - on Monday the bell on the Plank Road Church gave us notice of the death of Mr. Bullamore Sr. A rather sad affair but expected. The funeral took place on Tuesday. Religious services at the house of Rev. E. Savage."

James Bullamore
(Source:  National Archives, U.S. National Homes for the Disabled Vol. Soldiers 1866-1938)
Wood VA Home/Hospital Milwaukee
Admitted at age 65.  Information provided by nephew, James H. Bullamore, Somers, Wisconsin
Click on image for larger view.

Henry Bullamore Passport Application including photo.
Click on image for larger view.

Ellen Bullamore Waldo, daughter of James and Mary Ann Roddle Bullamore, (1834-1911)
Married Royal Newcomb Waldo January 1, 1856 in Paris Township, Kenosha County
(Source:  Photo and Information Spitzer-Powell family Tree at Ancestry.com)

Oren Steven Bullamore
Great-grandfather of Robert Swartz
(Source:  Original photo courtesy of Robert Swartz)

Oren Steven Bullamore
by Robert Swartz, Feb. 2, 2012
The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties (1879) indicates that he was born in Wisconsin in 1844, the same year that his father came to Wisconsin from New York. He was married in 1873 to Annie Gray, in Bristol. It says he owned 248 acres of land.

I have his marriage certificate which identified him as Oren Bullamore of Somers and his wife as Anna W. Gray, of Bristol. It is dated June 5, 1873, and was witnessed by Lizzie Gray and Henry Bullamore. The clergyman was Rev. Thomas Gillespie, of Bristol.

In the 1850 and 1860 federal censuses, he was living in the home of his parents. In the 1870 federal census, he was listed as living with his brother, William. He was not listed as owning any real estate, but he had personal property listed as worth $330. In the 1880 population census, he was listed in the Town of Somers. His wife and two children were living with him. There also was a 20 year old woman named Lillie Roddle listed as a boarder. This may have been a relative, possibly a cousin, since his mother was a Roddle. Four other workers were also listed in the household.

In the 1880 Agricultural Census, he is listed as the owner of 244 acres of tilled land, 213 acres of permanent pasture and 4 acres of woodland. the value of his farm was $12,250, which was the third most valuable of the ten various family farms that I researched in the 1880 census. His implements and machinery were worth $350 and his livestock was worth $3,675. This was easily the highest livestock value, with his sister-in-law, Susan Bullamore, being second with animals worth $2,500. He spent $100 on fence-building in 1879 and paid $500 in wages. The estimated value of all farm production was $4,000. In 1879, he mowed 100 acres of grassland and had 120 acres not mown. He cut 100 tons of hay. He had 8 horses on hand on June 1, 1880. He had 8 milk cows and 45 other cattle. Most other farms only averaged around 10 "other cattle". He had 10 calves dropped in 1879 and sold one live, sold two slaughtered and one died. He made 700 lbs. of butter. He had 375 sheep and shearing fleeces, with a weight of 375 lbs. He had 90 lambs dropped, purchased 50 and sold 80. He had 29 pigs and 80 chickens. His chickens produced 200 dozen eggs. He had 16 acres of corn which produced 1,000 bu. He had 11 acres of oats that produced 650 bu. He had three-quarters of an acre of potatoes that produced 40 bu. He had 3 acres of apples with 140 bearing trees producing 100 bu. He produced 18 lbs. of honey.

I have a letter that he sent to his family. The date is not fully legible, but it is September 11 and the year may be 1879. It reads:

St. Paul
Sept. 11 ___
Dear Wife and Children
We got to St. Paul this morning 7:45. The State Fair was held here so we took that in today. it was fairly good. Had quite a view of the city. Will start for Tower city 4:15 this afternoon. We bought our ticket by the way of Portland San Francisco Ogden Salt Lake Denver Kansas City St. Lewis. Went to Will Packmans to dinner. In the afternoon we went out to the Stockyards. Went to Wills to supper. Have you heard from Gamble. I did not see him. he did not come in on the train that day. It is raining here now. It is most train time now. Will close with love to all.
O.S. Bullamore.
Saw A. Benedict at the fair with his Swine and Dog.
The reference to "Tower City" suggests that he was going to North Dakota to visit his brother, Charles.
I also have a small leather account book that belonged to him. It has various expenses listed in it and dates run from about 1868 to around 1879. It includes some records of men who did work for him and appears to list expenses that were held out of their pay for expenses. It also appears that his brother William sometimes grazed livestock on Oren's land and there is an accounting of that. One interesting aspect of the book is that fact that he seems to have used the spelling, "Bullamore". I also have a small (3" x 4 1/2") leather-bound Bible. It is identified as, "The English Version of the Polyglott Bible". It was published in 1848 by George and Charles Merriam. Inside, it is inscribed, "Orin Bullamore Presented to him by his sister M. B." This would be from his sister, Maria. I have a large document which is, in effect, a marriage certificate. It is perhaps not the official certificate but one that someone might frame and hang on a wall, as it is somewhat decorative.
In the 1880 census, they had boarding with them , as a servant, a 20 year old woman named Lillie Roddle. Oren's mother was a Roddle, so it is likely that Lillie was a cousin. I am nearly certain that Lillie was Oren's cousin. It is interesting that Lillie's father was born in England, as would be expected if she were a cousin, but her mother was born in Canada. This is a perfect match for the daughter of James and Katherine (Eastwood) Roddle, named Lillie (Roddle) Goff, who was living at Tomah, WI, in 1942. 



Royal Newcomb Waldo
Married Ellen Bullamore January 1, 1856
(Note:  Substantial information about the Waldo family can be found in a Google search for
Record of Descendants of Cornelius Waldo of Ipswich, Mass.  See pages 737-738 for this family.)
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Spitzer-Powell Family Tree on Ancestry.com)