The following family group descriptions are adapted from Hamilton Child's "Gazetteer of Jefferson County, N.Y.", published in 1890. The families are arranged alphabetically by township, and wherever possible, a link has been made to a Jefferson County Pioneer. We welcome any corrections and additions to the information presented.
This project has only been made possible through the efforts of several volunteers, directed by Shirley Farone, who has been a behind-the-scenes participant in this website from the very beginning. The original idea came from Sharon Patchett, who is also giving her time to the project. Sisters Marcia Alary and Barbara Britt, both of whom have been volunteering on other projects for the website, are also working on this, and the newest volunteer, Gary Roe, was one of the first to get his work in. We are grateful to each of them for making this material so easily available.
Note: In this file, the highlighted name clicks will take you to the pioneer group sheet associated with the name.
Timothy Bacon, a native of Princetown, N. Y., married Lucy Morton, of Hatfield, N. Y., and they had 10 children, of whom Morton T., when 21 years of age, married Lovina Wooley, of Le Ray, and they have had nine children, eight of whom survive, namely: Eliza, William, Rasselus, 2nd, Harley M., Millard, Viola, Leona, and Jessie. Susan, the eldest, died at the age of 19 years. Rasselus married Cora Hall, of Philadelphia, this county, October 9, 1881, and they have a daughter, Bernice, and reside in the town of Wilna. Morton T. Bacon served in the late war, and now resides on Washington street, in the village of Antwerp.
Levi Baldwin was born in Goshen, Conn., March 10, 1819. His father, Silas, died in 1824. Levi has been twice married. His first wife was Eliza Pooler, of Goshen, Conn., whom he married February 27, 1847. They had two children, both of whom are dead. In 1863 he married Frances A., second daughter of E. C. Church, of Antwerp. and they have had six children, five of whom survive, namely: John L., William C., Lyman H., Orvis C., and Francis E. Mr. Baldwin is a cattle dealer and farmer. His son, William C., is also a farmer, and resides in this town on road 6. Mrs. Baldwin's father, E. C. Church, formerly resided in Berkshire County, Mass. Her brother is a county official, and resides in Canandaigua, Ontario County.
Samuel Barr was born in Salem, Mass., March 1, 1791, and when 12 years of age came with his parents to Champion, in this county. He was reared upon a farm, and attended the common schools until he attained the age of 15 years. In 1821 he married Polly Cleghorn, of Gouverneur, N. Y., and four of their children are living, namely: Dexter M., Olivia, Diantha, and William Z. The latter was born in the town of Champion, July 31, 1827, and received an academic education. In 1851 he married Lydia C., second daughter of Dean Burt, formerly of Windsor, Vt., and they have four children, namely: Selecta J., Mary A., Benjamin F., and William Z., Jr. In 1888 William Z., Jr., married Nettie M., fourth daughter of Edward Westwood, of Antwerp, and they have a son, William Z, 3rd, who was born March 16, 1889.
Ira Beaman was born in Westminster, Mass., June 27, 1800. Mary 17, 1831, he married Keziah Coburn, of Hollis, N. H., and in 1832 came to Antwerp. They had three sons and one daughter, namely: Francis, Joseph M., Ezra S., and Mary E. Ezra S. Beaman was born February 23, 1845. He received an academic education and is a graduate of the Poughkeepsie Commercial College. He married, first, December 30, 1867, Maggie Farley, of Wilna, who died January 1, 1875. February 23, 1886, he married Elizabeth A., widow of Oliver Mack, who had a son, Luther A., by her first husband.
Richard Bellinger was born in Little Falls, N. Y., in 1795. He married Elizabeth Sharp, a native of that town, and they had 10 children, six of whom are living, namely: John R., Lucinda A., Peter J., Richard A., William, and James. Peter J. Bellinger was born in Ogdensburg, N. Y., September 20, 1832, and soon afterwards located with his parents in Morristown. December 14, 1854, he married Jennett, eldest daughter of Peter and Eliza (Davis) McLarren, of Morristown. They have an adopted son, Lewis, and reside in this town on road 41.
Hartwell H. Bent was born in the town of Philadelphia, May 9, 1837, and when four years of age removed with his parents to Denmark, Lewis County. When 15 years of age he located in Antwerp. Mr. Bent was a prominent citizen and served as supervisor several terms. He was prominently identified with the manufacture of cheese in this town, and owned several factories. July 12, 1852, he married Fanny, youngest daughter of Henry C. Baldwin, of Antwerp, formerly of Vermont, and they had two sons, viz.: Roy H. and Winn C. Roy H. is a cheesemaker, and resides on Main street in the village of Antwerp. Winn C. is attending school. Hartwell Bent's widow resides on Main street.
John Broad came to this town from Washington County about 30 years ago. He had two sons and one daughter, viz.: John, William, and Mary. Mary Broad was born in Washington County, November 11, 1852, and came to Jefferson County with her father. She is now keeping house for her brother, William, on road 57.
Samuel Burtis was born July 4, 1800. He married Polly Oliver, of Orleans, and they had four sons and five daughters. William Burtis, son of Samuel, was born in Pamelia, November 17, 1825, and attended the public schools of that town until he attained the age of 13 years. He married, first, Julia Murphy, of Philadelphia, N. Y., by whom he had a son, James E. Mrs. Burtis died in May, 1851. In 1857 he married Harriet L. Allen, of Antwerp, by whom he has two sons and a daughter, namely: Carrie A., William S., and Charles T.
Levi Chase was born in Portland, Maine, February 22, 1808, and when 14 years of age came to this county. In 1838 he married Harriet Shurtleff, of Le Ray, and they had three sons and two daughters. Clinton A., the subject of this sketch, is an adopted son, and was born March 26, 1863. He received a common school education and is now engaged in farming. November 15, 1888, he married May M., only daughter of John G. Miller, of Theresa, and now resides in Antwerp.
Marcus B. Cheeseman was born in Theresa in 1837. He married Ann Farrell, of Redwood, and they had five children. William E. Cheeseman, son of Marcus B., was born in Theresa, September 19, 1861, and attended the public schools until he was 18 years of age. Setpember 29, 1883, he married Helen B. McDaniel, of Le Ray, and they have a son, Harrison M., and reside in the village of Antwerp.
Ansel Clark, Sr., was born in Rutland, Vt., January 13, 1800, and when quite young came with his father to Rutland, N. Y., where he married Ella Pierce, by whom he had seven sons, six of whom survive, namely: Ansel, Preserved, Clement, Lansing, Almer, and Wilber. Ansel Clark, Jr., was born in Rutland, January 14, 1822, and when six weeks old came with his father to Antwerp. September 5, 1842, he married Hannah Otis, of Antwerp, and they have had five children, two of whom, Linda A. and Jerome, 2nd, are living. The latter married Cora L., daughter of Amos Fuller, of Onondaga County, and they have two children, Lindon Logan and Edith May.
Jacob W. Cole was born in Otsego County, September 17, 1809. September 11, 1833, he married Catherine McFee, of Cherry Valley, and they had four sons and four daughters, namely: Elizabeth, Ezra, Margaret, David, Jacob S., Judson, Catherine, and Frances. Jacob S. Cole was born in this county, where he attended the common schools until he attained the age of 15 years. He married, in 1875, Ellen F., daughter of Peter A. Nellis, of Otsego County, and they have a son, Fred S. In 1862 Mr. Cole enlisted in the Union army and seved to the close of the war. His great- grandfather, Henry Lyon (or Lines), was a Revolutionary soldier. Andrew McFee, father of Mrs. Jacob W. Cole, was captured by the Indians and taken to Canada, was adopted by a chief of the tribe and remained two years.
George W. Cornwell was born in Brownville, September 11, 1805. In 1830 he married Polly, third daughter of James Shurtleff, of Theresa, and was one of the pioneers of that town. They had five sons and five daughters, namely: Melvin E., Philinda, George, John F., Mary, James S., Isaac, Anna, Eleanor, and Sarah L. Isaac died in 1865, while serving in the navy during the late war. Mary married James Cassey, of Theresa, and died in 1886. John F. Cornwell was born in Theresa, February 22, 1837. He was educated in the common schools and an academy, and is now engaged in farming and horse breeding. In 1863 he married Lois A., only daughter of Clark Willard, and they have a daughter, Mary E., who married Frank O. Eddy, of Theresa, by whom she has a daughter, Marion Ellis.
James Dickson was born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, August 22, 1809. In 1831 he located in Brockville, Canada, where he worked at the carpenters' trade for a short time, when he removed to Rossie, St. Lawrence County. March 5, 1836, he married Betsey Laidlow, of St. Lawrence County, and they had seven children, namely: Euphania M., John 2nd, Alexander L., Robert, 2nd., James C., Jennie, and Betsey Helena. Robert, 2nd, is a farmer by occupation. November 6, 1867, he married Adelia E., daughter of James C. Lynde, and they have three children, James R., Anna E., and Milton L. John Dickson, 2nd, is also a farmer, and is located on road 32, in this town. March 4, 1879, he married Lucy A., third daughter of George Ormiston, of Ox Bow village, and they have two children, John C. and Helen E.
Robert Dickson came to this country from Scotland in 1835. He married Ann Wilson, of Roxboroughshire, Scotland, and they have two sons and two daughters, namely: Alexander W., Nellie, Jennett, and John S. The latter was educated in the public schools and Ives Seminary. He married Sophia Lewis, of Wilna, and they have three children, viz.: Sylvenus R., Ora F., and Walter E. Mrs. Dickson's maternal ancestors were French. Mr. Dickson resides on road 68.
Asa L. Eggleston was born in Champion, September 7, 1823, and at the age of three years removed with his parents to Antwerp. December 26, 1844, he married Grace, second daughter of John Robinson, of this town, and they had six children, two of whom, Albert E. and Eva G., survive. Asa L. Eggleston, Jr., served in the late war and died at Warrington Junction, Va. The family reside in this town near the Ox Bow.
Augustus Fairbanks was born in Maine in 1803. Ezra, his only surviving son, was born in Deerfield, N. Y., where he attended the common schools until he attained the age of 16 years. January 1, 1857, he married Emily M. Bacon, of Antwerp, and they have had four children, -- three sons and a daughter, -- of whom the sons survive, namely: Silas A., Arthur B., and Earl. Arthur B. Fairbanks married Minnie, daughter of John P. Cranker, of Ox Bow village, where he now resides. His father also resides here.
Marcus M. Gillett was born in Halifax, Vt., in 1816, and in 1820 he removed with his parents to this town and located near the Ox Bow. He married, first, Eliza Colony, of Ox Bow village, by whom he had two children, Frank W. and Maria. His second wife, Olive, a sister of his first wife, bore him one daughter, Nettie. Frank W. Gillett, the subject of this sketch, was born May 13, 1845. He attended the public schools until he attained the age of 17 years, when he enlisted and served in the civil war. January 20, 1868, he married Sarah E., youngest daughter of Samuel Ridsdale, and they have three children, namely: William M., Sarah E., and Ida C. Mr. Gillett's father was a justice of the peace 28 years. His grandfather, Lucius, served in the War of 1812.
Roswell Gleason was born in Antwerp in 1831. He married, first Berthena Lewis, of this town, and they had four children, of whom Wallace E. and Charles W. survive. His second wife, Sarah Fleming, of St. Lawrence County, bore him five children. Charles W. Gleason was born in Theresa, April 5, 1863. November 9, 1887, he married Nettie, daughter of the late Marcus M. Gillett by his second wife, and they have a son, Claude, and reside on Park street, in Ox Bow village.
David Graham came with his father from England when he was eight years of age. He located in the town of Wilna. In 1836 he married Mary Rice, of Champion, and they had six children. John W., son of David, was born in Wilna, June 19, 1852, and attended the common schools of that town until he was 14 years of age. January 1, 1878, he married Nellie, eldest daughter of Robert Dickson, of Antwerp, and they have two children, Thomas H. and Ethel B.
Sterling and Elijah Graves, brothers, of English descent, at an early day located in Connecticut. About 1825 Elijah settled in Rutland, this county, where he married, in 1825, Sarah Wicks, who bore him five children, three of whom, Joseph F., Julia E., and Elijah B., survive. He married, second, Marinda Clark, of Rutland, and they had four children. Mr. Graves died in 1884. Joseph F. Graves was born in Pamelia, July 26, 1827. In 1851 he married Lydia L., second daughter of Thomas W. Bent, Croghan, Lewis County, and they have five children, namely: George D., Erwin R., Adelaide A., Fred E., and Ernest C. Adelaide A. married Samuel G. Eggleston, of Antwerp, and they have had six children, namely: Joseph F., Marcia L., Everett H., Fred S., Herbert L., and Bertha A. The latter died at the age of seven years. Erwin R. married Lydia A., daughter of Sylvus Peeler, of Antwerp, and they have three children, Effie F., Joseph F., and Eugene. Joseph F. Graves, first named in this sketch, is the architect of his own fortune, and wishes to be known as a Jackson Democrat.
Alexander Hall was born in the Mohawk valley in 1810, and when young removed with his parents to Lewis County. In 1835 he married Jane Murphy, of Lowville, by whom he had nine children, seven of whom survive, namely: Elisha B., Stephen L., Lewis F., Walton E., Mary E., Florine A., and Theodocia. Stephen L. was born in Lowville, June 30, 1839. April 26, 1864, he married Louise Kappler, of Buffalo, and they have six children, namely: Walton L., Jennie, George H., Alfred S., Kattie L., and Charles A.
Daniel R. Hall was born in Antwerp in 1846. In 1865 he married Mrs. Miles, of Le Ray, and they have three children, George W., Clara L., and Erwin G. The latter was born October 15, 1866. February 3, 1886, he married Rose V., daughter of Joseph L. Frost, of Philadelphia, and they have a son, Egbert R.
William Hall was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1815, and when 19 years of age came with his parents to the United States and located in the town of Antwerp. December 27, 1858, he married Elizabeth, eldest daughter of John Dickson, of this town. Their son, Frederick D., is a farmer on road 68.
Samuel H. Harris was born in Exeter, N. H., March 2, 1839, and in 1856 located in Northern New York. He was educated in the common schools, and August 9, 1862, enlisted in the Union army. He married, first, in October, 1866, Sylvia M. Benson, of Alexandria, and they had two children, May L. and Jay S. She died in February, 1871, and May 29, 1873, he married Jennie Webster, of Antwerp. He is a farmer.
Ezra Hicks was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., in 1814, and when a youth came with his father to Jefferson County. He married, first, Clarissa Parks, of Evans Mills, who bore him five children, and second, Mrs. Canfield, widow of Warner. He has been chiefly engaged in the manufacture of lumber. William Hicks was the second child born to Ezra by his first marriage. He was educated in the common schools, and when 26 years of age married Hester Goodenough, of Wilna, June 12, 1866, and they have five children, viz.: Clarissa M., Clarence E., Dennis F., Lucy A., and Fred W. Both Ezra and William Hicks served in the late war. William was wounded in the battle of South Mountain, September 14, 1862.
Joseph and Isaac Hinsdale, brothers, came from England to America as early as 1724. Ira Hinsdale, a descendant of one of the brothers, and grandfather of Ira C., was born in Pompey, N. Y. George, son of Ira, and father of Ira C., was born in Antwerp, November 11, 1819. He married Harriet A. Hamlin, of Ox Bow village, and they had three children, namely: Ira C., Florence L., and George J. Ira C. was born in Antwerp, December 26, 1844. When he was 13 years of age his father died, and his early life was occupied with work upon the farm summers and attendance at the district school winters. September 4, 1862, he enlisted in the Union army and was discharged as second lieutenant at the close of the war. February 15, 1870, he married Margaret F. Seymour, of Antwerp, and they have a son, Roy S. Mr. Hinsdale is a successful general merchant at Antwerp village. He was formerly located at Ox Bow. His sister, Florence H., married Alexander B. Clark, of Ox Bow village.
Richard Hoching was born in Cornwall, England. December 4, 1848, he married Mary, daughter of Samuel Tuckfield, and in 1867 they emigrated to the United States. They have two children, Richard and Mary Ann. Richard, Jr., married Catherine Goldsworthy, of Cornwall, England, and they now reside in Park City, Utah. Mary Ann married Charles Pregema, also of Cornwall.
Giles Hogan was born in Cumberland County, N. J., in 1804. In 1824 he married Elizabeth Remer, also of Cumberland County, and they had six sons, namely: Thomas P., Harmon, John F., David H., William R., and Abraham R. Thomas P. Hogan was born December 13, 1823. March 10, 1850, he married Eveline L. Kinsman, and they have eight children, namely: Elizabeth, Josephine, Annice, Randolph, William H., George C., Theodore, and Hattie M. Mr. Hogan resides on Main street, in Antwerp village.
John T. Hopper, son of Samuel, was born in Antwerp, February 27, 1841, and attended the common schools and an academy until he attained the age of 22 years. In 1866 he married Emeline, only daughter of William Whitfield, and they have had six children, two of whom survive, namely: Jean Paul and Beatrice. Mr. Hopper resides in the village of Antwerp, on Mechanic street.
Samuel B. Hopper was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Alonzo B., his son, was born in Watertown, August 13, 1822. He was married twice, first to Sally, daughter of Peter C. Miller, of Herkimer County, who bore him three children, namely: Edgar A., Eugene L., and Cornelia A. Eugene L. Hopper was born January 30, 1854. He was educated in the common schools and Ives Seminary. September 18, 1879, he married Letta, second daughter of Edward Westwood, of Wegatchie, and they have three children, -- two sons and a daughter, -- namely: Perley A., Harley E., and Adell.
Elijah Houghton, Sr., father of William and grandfather of William A., was born in the town of Harvard, Mass., June 12, 1800, whence he removed with his parents to the town of Le Ray when eight years of age. He married Harriet Dopking, of Oneida County, and they had 10 children, of whom William, who resides with his father on the homestead, married Harriet C., daughter of Rodney Simmons, of Theresa, and they had eight children. William A., son of William, was born on the homestead November 12, 1863. He received a common school and academic education, and graduated from Eastman's Commercial College, at Poughkeepsie. He taught school several terms, and is now a book-keeper and clerk for Ira C. Hinsdale, of Antwerp village. In 1888 he married Alice, eldest daughter of Samuel E. Wicks, of this town, and they have a son, Charles W., who was born April, 2, 1889. Mr. Houghton resides on Mechanic street, in Antwerp village.
Richmond Howland was born in the town of Rutland, September 10, 1803. In 1847 he married Harriet M. Eggleston, of Hebron, N. Y., and they now reside in the village of Antwerp, on Washington street. Alice Gordon, who resides with Mr. and Mrs. Howland, was born in Jackson, Mich.
James Hunt was born in Salisbury, Herkimer County, June 16, 1802, and when 14 years of age came to Jefferson County with his father. He was reared upon a farm and attended the common schools. He married, first, Asa Congdin, and they had three children, two of whom, Emeline and Charles, survive. He married, second, Phama C. Blair, of Chenango County, by whom he had two children, namely: Helen A. and James, Jr. The latter was born March 28, 1832. Charles Hunt was born in the town of Antwerp, February 1, 1855. He married Clarissa, youngest daughter of Solomon Pool, of Theresa, and they have five children, namely: James C., Elbert C., Jennie Z., Burton T., and Harvey. Mr. Hunt served in the late war.
John Johnson, born in Moffatt, Dumfrieshire, Scotland, was twice married. His first wife, Joanna Tate, resided near Edinburgh, Scotland, where Mr. Johnson located after his marriage, and they had four children, three of whom survive, namely: Ann, Edward, and William. Mr. Johnson came to this country in 1834 and located in Antwerp. He married, second, Janett (Johnson) Tate, and they had one daughter, Mary E. Edward Johnson was born in Scotland and was seven years of age when his father removed to this country. March 13, 1851, he married Betsey Johnson, also a native of Scotland, and they have had nine children, namely: Nettie, Joanna, Nellie, John, and Eddie, who are dead, and James W., Charles C., Julia A., and Clark E, who survive. The family occupy the old homestead on road 50, where they have resided 34 years.
Reuben Kelsey was born in Saybrook, Conn., September 7, 1787. About 1813 he married Rebecca Bushnall, also of Saybrook, and they had 12 children, 11 of whom attained maturity, namely: Azubah, Daniel B., Frederick W., Louisa E., Samuel S., Merritt, Rhoda M., Alida A., Sally, Harriet A., and Charles. They located in Fairfield, N. Y. about 1814. Merritt, the fourth son, was born in Fairfield, April 14, 1823, and in 1835 came to Antwerp, where he married March 12, 1856, Mary Weston, by whom he has had four children, two of whom, Delaney M. and Jeremy W., survive.
Peter Kitts, a native of Herkimer County, located in Lowville, Lewis County, in 1839. He married, first, a Miss Barnes, of Lowville, by whom he had one son and three daughters, namely: Catharine, Polly Ann, Aaron, and Alice. He married, second, Susan Ward, by whom he has had seven children, four of whom survive, namely: Harriet, Sarah, Fanny, and Benjamin F. The latter was born in Lowville. October 16, 1860, he married Lucinda Van Hussen, of Champion, and they have four children, namely: George, Eugene, Hattie A., Merton A., and Earl M.
Nathan Lamb was born in Massachusetts, January 18, 1816, and when 12 years of age came with his parents to Antwerp. He was married three times, first to Patty Ann Cleghorn, of St. Lawrence County, by whom he had five children, viz.: Jarvis G., Celia, Aveline, Lionel, and Gilbert. His second wife was Eliza, widow of Thomas Rattigan, and his third wife was Abigail Jones, of Gouverneur. Jarvis G. Lamb was born February 5, 1857, and was educated in the public schools. February 15, 1882, he married Mary Davis, of Fowler, St. Lawrence County, and they have a son, Morrison L., and reside in this town near the village of Spragueville.
Joseph P. Lawton was born in Antwerp, Mary 22, 1833. He received a liberal education and taught school several years. October 29, 1856, he married Jane, eldest daughter of James Wilson, of Philadelphia, and they have had 11 children. Jay P. Lawton, the eldest son of Joseph P., was born in the town of Philadelphia, October 17, 1860, and attended the common schools until he was 16 years old. June 4, 1882, he married Sarah E., second daughter of Simeon P. Chapman, of Theresa, and they have had two children, Addi E., and Perley W. F.
Elliott Lynde, grandfather of Arthur L., was born October 28, 1772. Lincoln D., son of Elliott, was born in Antwerp, July 14, 1819. He married, first, in 1864, Lydia Marsh, of this town, and they had two sons and two daughters, namely: Alice, Ella E. and Eugene A. (twins), and Arthur L. For his second wife he married, in 1876, Esther T., widow of Thomas Arlow. He died June 20, 1887. Arthur L. Lynde was born April 14, 1863. He received a liberal education and was a student in the agricultural department of Cornell University for two years and a half. April 13, 1885, he married Ardell E., eldest daughter of Abram G. Schermerhorn, of West Union, Iowa, and they have had two sons, Harold Adolphus and Harry E. D. The former was born June 14, 1887, and died September 30, 1888. Harry E. D. was born February 4, 1889.
Samuel Markwick, born in Sussex, England, in 1809, married Mary Shadwell, also of Sussex, March 25, 1827, and in 1836 they came to this country and located in Rossie, St. Lawrence County. They have had nine children, eight of whom survive, viz.: Stephen, Matilda, John, William, Benjamin, Mary, Sarah J., and Henry. October 23, 1879, Sarah J. married Darius J. H. Lee. Mrs. Markwick died Mary 15, 1882. Mr. Markwick has resided in Antwerp since 1838.
John Martin came from Ireland and located in Wilna, near Carthage. His wife, Helen Carroll, bore him seven children -- three sons and four daughters. James F., son of John, was born in Wilna, January 6, 1859. He married Helen Savage, of Rossie, N. Y., and they have five sons and four daughters, namely: Minnie E., Helen C., Susan J., James F., Jr., John S., Albert, Annie, Charles, Emmit. Mr. Martin has been in the employ of A. and E. Copley for 18 years.
Samuel Martin was born November 25, 1817. He married Mary, daughter of Calvin Rider, of Antwerp, and they had two children, Helen M. and Henry C. The latter was educated in the common schools. November 25, 1869, he married Amanda L., daughter of Daniel Cotton, of Edwards, N. Y., and they have four children, Helen E., Willie H., Albert K., and Georgia M. He resides in this town on road 68.
Rufus L. Maxon was born in Hounsfield, about 1829, where he married Azelia Warren, who bore him five children, three of whom survive, namely: Frank E., Millie L., and Bennie M. Frank E. Maxon was born in Hounsfield, January 20, 1863. He received a common school education with two years at Potsdam Normal School. In March, 1887, he married Anna M., daughter of John Graham, of Sackets Harbor, and is now station agent for the R. W. and O. Railroad at Antwerp.
William McAllaster was born in Antrim, N. H., March 6, 1792. His father, Richard McAllaster, was an Irishman; his mother, Susan, Scotch. They were highly respected in the community, and until William was 13 years of age in easy circumstances. Then misfortune came and swept away the results of years of industry and frugality. The times were hard and the exigencies of the case demanded vigorous action on the part of Richard, and one of the measures he took to relieve himself and family from the pressure of want was to bind William under the apprentice laws, then exisiting in that state, to a neighboring farmer for a term of years. At the age of 18, finding himself at liberty and on the world, with only a small amount of money in his pocket, William packed his scanty wardrobe in a bundle, and taking it upon his back set out upon a long march through the wilderness, hardly knowing whither he was going, but carrying in his breast a stout heart and in his vigorous frame the health and strength requisite to a successful encounter with fate however obstinate she might prove. Of the length of time consumed or the hardships and privations endured upon his journey we can say nothing; but we know that upon reaching Antwerp he found little or nothing to do, and so continued his journey to Ogdensburg. Here he obtained employment of Mr. Ford, the builder of the State road, one season. Returning to New Hampshire he came again to Antwerp, bringing with him his parents and one brother and five sisters. The journey was performed with a yoke of cattle and a two- wheeled cart. On arriving at Antwerp village Richard immediately set about the erection of a house on a site now within the limits of Hoyt street, just in the rear of the new Congregational Church. Richard and Susan died in 1813, their graves being among the first dug in the old burying-ground on the hill. In the meantime William was laboring hard at small wages on the turnpike, which was then being built from Antwerp village to the Ox Bow. Subsequently, he was elected constable and collector. As collector he compelled Parish to pay his taxes in Antwerp instead of Albany, somewhat against the gentleman's inclination, but William's energy and promptness in the matter pleased the wealthy land-owner and he subsequently made the young man his agent. In 1828 he married Nancy Stowell, a lady who came to Antwerp in 1809 from New Hampshire, and who was born January 6, 1804. Of this marriage were born four children, William P., George D., Oliver R., and Major. Of these only George D. is now living. Major died while young, and William P. and Oliver while engaged in the service of the United States in the war of 1861-1865. The Grand Army Post at Antwerp bears the name of Oliver. Hon. George D. McAllaster has served one term in the legislature, and has been several times supervisor of his town. William McAllaster continued as Parish's agent until his land was all sold and he ceased to do business in the town. For many years he manged the whole of that gentleman's business in this section with satisfaction to his employer. In 1828 he purchased 550 acres of Parish, and this he kept until his death. He was elected to the Assembly in 1840, and for one year was supervisor of his town. During the latter part of his life he dealt in real estate and personal property. He died May 5, 1870.
John Moak, Sr., grandfather of Dr. Sheldon R., was born in New Scotland, N. Y. John, Jr., was also born in New Scotland, in April, 1800, and was educated in the common schools. In 1823 he married Nancy Davison, of Minden, N. Y., and they had four children, namely: Sheldon R., Charlotte, Jesse D., and Warren H. Sheldon R. Moak was born in Danube, N. Y., and received an academic education. He also graduated from the Castleton (Vt.) Medical College. September 1, 1852, he married Martha Jane, second daughter of Isaac and Belinda Thompson, of Theresa, and they have had three children, all of whom are deceased, namely: Frank W., Miriam E., and Edith M. Their adopted daughter, Mattie, died July 4, 1884. Dr. and Mrs. Moak reside in the village of Ox Bow, in this town.
Hiram Nichols was born in Verona, N. Y., August 15, 1816. January 25, 1843, he married Phebe E. Duell, of Palermo, by whom he had six children, three of whom survive, namely: Charles E., Emma J., and George W. Mr. Nichols served in the Union army during the late war. He died February 3, 1884. His widow resides in Antwerp.
Benjamin Payne was born in Cranston, R. I., in 1791, and in 1800 his parents removed to Herkimer County. April 12, 1816, he married Patty Dickson, of Fairfield, N. Y., and soon after removed to Gouverneur, St. Lawrence County. They had seven children, namely: Rosseel, Sally, Edwin, Angeline, Mary, Amy, and Jane. Rosseel Payne was born January 20, 1817, and was educated in the common schools. December 28, 1843, he married Cynthia Gillett, of Antwerp, and they have had three children, namely: Charles E., who married Montelia Hunt, of Theresa; Addison L., who married Alice Henderson, of Gouverneur; and Byron E., who died April 15, 1886.
Joel Peeler was born in Palestine [sic], N. Y., in 1785, and in 1801 became one of the pioneers of Jefferson County. He married Olive Wood, of Broome County, and they had seven children, two of whom, Alonzo D. and Sylvus, survive. Sylvus Peeler was born August 25, 1821, and is a farmer by occupation. In 1844 he married Margaret, daughter of Christopher Closs, of Pamelia, and they have had 14 children, 10 of whom survive, namely: Mary D., Isaac D., Alma J., Frank H., Helen C., Annis I., Hiram E., George S., William, and Lydia. Mr. and Mrs. Peeler reside in this town on road 32.
William Render married Hannah Spirit, in Yorkshire, Eng., and in 1833 came to this country. He arrived at Ogdensburg with a sick wife, four small children, and one English sovereign. They had born to them 14 children, 12 of whom are living, namely: Robert, George, Mary, James, Richard, Betsey, William L., Jonathan, Joseph, Charles, Maria, and Jane. Robert Render came with his parents to this country when he was four years old. He received a good education and taught school seven terms. December 31, 1859, he married Annice C., only daughter of Tomkins Jenne, and they have had four children, of whom one died in infancy, William T. died at the age of 21 years, and George H. and Mary E. survive. George H., is engaged in farming with his father, and Mary E. is teaching school and also music and painting.
James Ridsdale was born in St. Lawrence County. He married Sarah J. Aminary, of Maitland, Canada, and they have had two children, Berdie A. and Bertha A., both of whom are deceased. George Ridsdale was also born in St. Lawrence County. He married Angeline Corbett, of Antwerp, and they have five children, namely: George, Jr., Charles, Albert, Cassius, and Anna. April 5, 1885, George, Jr., married Anna M. Gettenby, and they have a son, Clinton T.
Samuel Ridsdale, a native of Yorkshire, Eng., married Sarah Spirit, and in the spring of 1833 they came to this country and located in Ogdesnburg, N. Y. They had six children, namely: Mary A., George, James, William, Samuel, and Sarah E. William Ridsdale was born in Oswegatchie, N. Y., October 26, 1841. He attended the public schools until 15 years of age, and then learned the carpenters' trade. October 26, 1871, he married Jane, eldest daughter of William Camedge, of Sterling Bush, N. Y., and they have five children, namely: Elizabeth J., William W., Mary A., Frances F., and George G.
John Rogers came to Antwerp from Hebron, Washington County, in May, 1828, locating upon the farm now owned by his son, A. P. Rogers, where he resided until his death, October 10, 1870, aged 77 years. He married Mary Eggleston, of Hebron, and their children were L. S., Mary J. (Mrs. Dr. E. G. Derby), Emily (Mrs. P. W. Davenport), D. J., and A. P. Mrs. Rogers died in 1853, aged 62 years. L. S. Rogers was born September 16, 1819. September 29, 1846, he married Permelia M., daughter of Darius Burtch, of Antwerp,. and they have had five children, viz.: Emogene P. (Mrs. E. P. Perley); Maryette T., who died in 1865; Allen L., of Pamelia,; Wm. J., of this town; and George P., a druggist in Hermon, St. Lawsrence County. After his marriage Mr. Rogers settled on the farm now occupied by his son, William J. In 1876 he removed to Antwerp village, where he now resides, and has served as assessor 12 years. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. William J. Rogers was educated in the common schools and Ives Seminary. September 4, 1883, he married Maud L., daughter of Hiram Mix, of St. Lawrence County, and they have three children, two of whom survive, namely: Maud E. and Helen M. Mr. Rogers is a farmer and resides in this town.
John R. Rutherford was born in Northumberland, Eng., in 1800. About 1829 he married Agnes Scott, a native of Scotland, and about 1831 they emigrated to the United States. They had eight children, -- seven sons and one daughter, -- five of whom survive, namely: James S., Thomas T., George, Robert, and Margaret. Thomas T. Rutherford was born in Potsdam, N. Y., in 1835, and was educated in the common schools. In 1871 he married Emogene, only daughter of William Bishop, and they have a son, William J., and reside in this town on road 12, where four generations of the family are living.
James Scott was born in Roxburghshire, Scotland, about 1800. He married Helen, daughter of Henry Johnson, also of Roxburghshire, and in 1833 they emigrated to the United States and located in Antwerp. They had four sons and four daughters, namely: John, Henry, Robert, Helen, Jeanett, William, Jane, and Betsey. Henry Scott, the subject of this sketch, attended the common schools until he attained the age of 19 years. November 19, 1863, he married Hannah, eldest daughter of Dr. Rowland Briggs, of Antwerp, by whom he has had one son and two daughters. The daughters, Ivia A. and Helen Olivia, survive.
Joseph Scurrah was born in Yorkshire, Eng., in 1797, where he married Hannah Ogden, and they had 12 children, eight of whom survive, namely: Charles, Joseph, Thomas, George, Fred W., Hannah, Mary, and Fannie. Thomas Scurrah came to the United States with his parents when two years of age, and first located in the city of Rochester. June 17, 1868, he married Mary S., eldest daughter of Hugh Ormiston, and they have had eight children, six of whom survive, namely: Frank H., Gertrude A., Joseph T., Fred O., Charles C., and Florence M. Mr. Scurrah resides with his family in the village of Ox Bow.
Watson T. Seaver was born in Moretown, Vt., in 1802, and in 1818 came with his parents to Antwerp. December 26, 1822, he married Almira, daughter of Thomas Wait, formerly of Waitsfield, Vt., and they have had seven children, four of whom survive, namely: Luana, Freeman W., John W., and Maria N. Luana married, first Scott S. Clark, by whom she had a daughter, and second, John M. Eggleston, by whom she had a son, Richmond H. Almira Seaver, widow of Watson T., is living with her son, John W., aged 83 years. Maria N. married Victor Kitts. Lovina A. Keith has lived with her grandmother, Mrs. W. T. Seaver, since she was four years of age.
John Snell, a native of Lowville, N. Y., married Mary Pomeroy, of Denmark, and their sons were John D. and Charles C. John D. Snell was born in the town of Antwerp, December 4, 1839. He was reared upon a farm and attended the common schools until he attained the age of 18 years. December 31, 1862, he married Amelia Shampine, of La Fargeville, and they have four children, namely: Frederick D., Jennie M., Ora D., and John C. Mr. Snell served in the Union army until the close of the late war. Charles C. Snell married Leonora Ormsby, of Saranac, N. Y., and they have five children, namely: Geneva M., Edna L., Carrol J., Mary J., and Georgianna.
Seth Sprague was born in Washington County, N. Y., November 26, 1807. He married Cynthia Bowen, of that county, and they had nine children, namely: Aurilla, Daniel W., Cordelia, Chester, Samuel B., Leonora J., Mary J., Phebe L., and Charles D. Daniel W. Sprague was born in Pitcairn, N. Y., June 27, 1830. He received a liberal education, is a general merchant, and has served his townsmen as supervisor and justice of the peace. He has been married three times. January 1, 1854, he married Mary Clark, of St. Lawrence County, who died February 17, 1865. August 4, 1868, he married Maria Chapin, of Russell, N. Y., who died August 4, 1872. October 17, 1873, he married Sarah E. Peneman, of Watertown, and they have two sons, Charles S. and Fred A.
John R. Sterling, son of Daniel, was born in Connecticut, Mary 20, 1802, and when five years of age came with his parents to Antwerp and located at Sterling Corners, corner of road 31 and 41. The land upon which Daniel Sterling settled has ever since been owned by some member of the family. John R. Sterling married Roxana S., daughter of Ezra Church, January 27, 1828, and they had children and as follows: Howard, Bradford, James L., Jennie S., Ella T., and Julia A. Bradford Sterling is a farmer, owns the old homestead, and is as happy as a bachelor can be. Frances E. died at the age of nine years. Mr. Sterling died May 2, 1867. His wife survives at the age of 79 years and resides with her son, Bradford. Jennie S. and Ella T. also reside on the homestead. This family are descendants of Governor Bradford of colonial fame.
Eli Stewart, born in Massachusetts, came to Herkimer County as early as 1812. He served in the War of 1812 and was in the battle of Sackets Harbor. He married Elsie Fanning and they had seven children, three of whom died in infancy, and a son, Gilbert, was killed in the late Rebellion. William, Lucinda, and James survive. The latter was educated in the common schools and is a farmer by occupation. March 27, 1856, he married Fanny, eldest daughter of Frederick Stype, of Antwerp, and they have had three children, namely: Joseph Lester, who died at the age of two years, Frederick Eli and Elsie Elizabeth, who survive. Mr. and Mrs. Stewart adopted a son from the Watertown Orphan Home, whose name was Adelbert Budlong.
Alonzo H. Taylor was born near Hartford, Conn., January 2, 1816, and came with his parents to this town, locating at Ox Bow, when four years old. In 1855 he married Mary A. Laidlow, of this town, and they had five children, namely: Nancy B., Andrew S., David J., Elizabeth A., and Jane. David J. received a common school education and is now engaged in farming. December 3, 1885, he married Lizzie M., daughter of George P. Coolidge, of Antwerp, and they have two children, Mable E. and Florence M.
Oliver Webster, a native of Vermont, married Sally, daughter of Abel and Lovis Phelps, and about 1812 they came by wagon to the town of Pinckney, Lewis County. They were on the road 17 days, and it rained every day of their journey but two. A part of the way they followed the army on its march to Sackets Harbor. They remained in Lewis County five or six years, when they settled in Antwerp and took up 170 acres in the northern part of the town, and built a log house. Mr. Webster died here in 1822, aged 43 years, leaving a widow and six children. Their daughter, Polly, died a few days after her father. Sally married Nathaniel Redfield and resides in Lisbon, Ill. Gardner occupied the homestead with his mother until a few years before his death. He married Miranda Wood, by whom he had eight children, five of whom reside in this town. He died in Ox Bow village. Eli married Ann Barstow and removed to Illinois. He is now living with his second wife in Eagle Grove, Iowa, and has three children. Lois married Dan Forward, of Le Ray, and they had two children, Byron and Eunitia. Lucy, born December 27, 1821, married Charles, son of Philemon and Lovina (Hunt) Wicks, who was born December 27, 1821. March 9, 1846, Mr. and Mrs. Wicks located on the old homestead where his grandfather, Benjamin, and father were the first settlers. He died in Champion village, August 4, 1865, leaving two daughters, viz.: Emma L. (Mrs. Amos J. Colvin) and Ada D. (Mrs. W. V. Graves), both of Champion. For her second husband Mrs. Wicks married Nelson Brooks, April 22, 1869, who died January 18, 1875. His widow now lives in Champion village. Sally Webster, widow of Oliver, died June 1, 1871, aged 91 years.
James Whitmore was born in Connecticut, April 6, 1795, and when two years of age his parents removed to Windsor, Vt. He located in Antwerp when about 25 years of age. October 22, 1829, he married Thankful Gates, of this town, and they had three children, namely: James D., Mercy A., and Thankful R. James D. Whitmore was born October 1, 1830. March 22, 1855, he married Helen M. Wait, a native of Vermont, then residing in Antwerp, and they have had six children, four of whom survive, namely: Julia, Roque, Arthur J., and Hattie.
Clark Willard was born in the town of Rutland, December 25, 1809, and was educated in the common schools. October 30, 1838, he married Mary D. Ellis, and soon after located in Antwerp. They had four children, namely: Lois A., Charles E., Elbert C., and Henry E. Elbert C. Willard was born in Antwerp, October 11, 1843. He received a good education, and is now engaged in farming and breeding horses. March 11, 1865, he married Anna, daughter of George Cornwell, and they have two sons and two daughters, namely: Charles H., Minnie A., John C., and Eleanor E. September 25, 1872, Henry W. Willard married Eleanor, fourth daughter of George Cornwell.
William Wilson, a native of Yorkshire, Eng., came to America about 1831 or '32, and settled in the town of Antwerp, at the locality known as Scott settlement, where he built a log house, into which he moved with his wife and nine children. He engaged in farming, subsequently removing to Morristown, N. Y., and later to Michigan, where he died. Grace, daughter of William, married George W. Smith, of Rossie, St. Lawrence County, where they resided for a number of years, finally locating in Antwerp, where Mr. Smith died in 1879. Mrs. Smith reides with her son, Duane, in Theresa. A daughter, Mary, lives in Watertown.
Ira Wiser was born in Deerfield, Oneida County, September 15, 1808, and when 15 years of age removed to Frankfort. March 30, 1832, he married Rebecca, fourth daughter of Christopher Joslin, of Frankfort, Herkimer County. Mr. Wiser died January 7, 1884. Mrs. Wiser survives, and resides in the village of Antwerp.
George H. Wood was born in Lansdown, County Leeds, Canada, March 12, 1861, and came to the United States in 1885. December 15, 1886, he married Lellah S., daughter of Elijah and Sophronia Graves, of Antwerp, and they have a son, who was born November 6, 1888. Mr. Wood is a farmer.
Allen Woodward was born in Buckland, Mass., December 4, 1798, and early in life came to this town and located near Spragueville. He married, first, Olive Ellis, who bore him a daughter, Olive. His second wife, Susan Blodgett, of Antwerp, bore him six sons and two daughters. James S. Woodward, son of Allen, was born in Spragueville, July 15, 1839. He was reared upon a farm and attended the common schools until he was 17 years old. In 1861 he enlisted and served in the Union army. He married Tinnie L., second daughter of Silas Bacon, and they have two children, Anna E. and Claud S.
Peter Worney was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, August 1, 1830. In 1857 he emigrated to the United States, and located in New Bremen, N. Y., subsequently removing to Antwerp. Mr. Worney has been married three times. His first wife was Catherine Snyder, of New Bremen. His second wife, Armena Bacon, of Antwerp, bore him two children, both of whom are deceased. By his third wife, Mrs. H. Porter, of Sterlingville, he has a daughter, Lucy M. Mr. Worney served in the Union army in the late war.
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