Delaware County NY Genealogy and History Site

HENRY EUGENE GANUNG, now a very prominent citizen and trader in Arkville, in Middletown, was born in Roxbury in the same county, January 11, 1859. His great-grandfather was John Ganung, and his grandmother before marriage was Miss Devough Knittin. John Ganung came from near Croton Falls, Putnam County, and settled at Batavia Kill, a pioneer in that section. After the death of his first wife he married the Widow Sloat. He lived to a good old age, and finally died as the result of a broken arm. His children were Harry, Sniffin, Devough, Hannah, Sally, Ebenezer, Reuben. Three belonged to the first wife, and the others to the second. He was a committee-man of the Revolutionary War.

His son Devough, the grandfather of the special subject of this sketch, was born in Putnam County, whence he was taken to Delaware County. His wife was Hattie Gregory; and they raised nine children: Hannah, Polly, John, Thomas, Sally, Sniffin, Jane, Edward, and Julia. It is Sniffin Ganung who is connected with this biography by his marriage with Electa Kelly. He was born at Batavia Kill. After working with his father till the age of twenty-five, he began business for himself, farming, speculating in land, and selling the timber cut therefrom. In 1870 he made a change of base, going into mercantile business at Roxbury, where his marriage took place. His wife was the daughter of Hiram and Sally (Borden) Kelly and the grand-daughter of David and Susan (Baker) Kelly , and more about the Kelly family may be found under that name. David Kelly was born in Putnam County, and found his way into Delaware County by following the blazed trees in the forest. He decided to take up land in what is now Halcottville, where he lived the rest of his days. Besides a farmhouse he built a grist-mill. He also served in the Revolutionary War, and lived to be ninety-nine, his wife dying at eighty-four. Their children were David, Norman, Reuben, Hiram, Elizabeth, Susan, Marcia. Hiram Kelly was born in Putnam County, but came to Delaware County, and eventually took the homestead, caring for the farm and mill as long as he lived. There were three hundred acres of land, whereon his ten children grew up -- Judah, Jane, Caroline, John, Electa, Emiline, Deborah, Hiram Borden, Norman, and Lorenzo Kelly. Their father lived to be seventy, and his wife died only a year younger. He was a Republican and a Baptist.

Sniffin Ganung lived to be seventy-five, and was an old-line Democrat. At his death he left only two children. The elder, Bogordis Ganung, was born June 3, 1846. He married Josephine Aken, has one child, and carries on a saw and planing mill in Roxbury. In that town was educated the other son, the subject of this sketch Henry Eugene Ganung,. He remained with his father in the grocery till 1887, when twenty-eight years old. Then he became station agent on the Ulster & Delaware Railroad. One year he worked at the station called Big Indian and another year in Stamford. Since then he has been five years at the Tannersville station, Kaaterskill Railroad, and has also spent one year in the general office of the New Jersey & New York Railroad. Later he was at Fleishmanns two years and three years at Arkville. While a young man, he had learned surveying, and now took it up for a short time as a trade, but soon left it to engage in general merchandise in a store on Doctor Street, where he has a fine location. In 1892 he built himself a beautiful home near Main Street, leading to Kelly's Corner, where reside so many of his kinsfolk. He did not marry till 1890, when thirty-one years old. His wife was Ella Kilquest, the daughter of John D. and Hannah Kilquest. Her father came from Sweden to America, settled in New Jersey, and then came to Ulster County, where he worked in a tannery. Later they moved to Halcott, in Greene County, then to Beaver Kill, where they bought a farm now numbering a hundred acres, one of the best in town. The Killquests have four children, -- Ella, Tilla, Emil, and William. Mr. Kilquest is a Republican, and the family attend the Methodist church.

Mr. and Mrs. H. Eugene Ganung have only one child, a daughter, Nora, born July 24, 1892. He is a Democrat and has held the offices of Notary Public and Pension Agent. Masonically, he belongs to the lodge in Margaretville; and he is also a Knight of Pythias. In religion he holds very liberal opinions. Active in temperament, he is sure to become a still more important factor in the community as time adds to his experience and wisdom.


GEORGE E. SMITH, M.D., the leading physician of Masonville, was born in this town, December 28, 1858, son of Phineas W. and Lucretia (Haight) Smith. His father was born in Massachusetts, and his mother in the town of Tompkins, Delaware County. The doctor's grandfather, Darius Smith, was from New England, and was one of the first settlers of Masonville. He was engaged extensively in the lumber trade for many years, and held several public offices in the town. He died here at the advanced age of ninety years. He had six children, one of whom is now living , Justine M. Smith, of Corning, N.Y.

Phineas W. Smith, son of Darius, was educated and brought up in Delaware County. He was a prominent farmer, owning a fine farm of one hundred and thirty acres, and was also a well-known raiser of stock. In politics he was a Republican, and held the office of Justice of the Peace. He reared two children, George E., the subject of this biographical mention, and Calista, who died at the age of eighteen. His wife, Lucretia, died in 1860, aged thirty-two. He survived her seventeen years, dying in 1877, aged sixty-eight.

George E. Smith attended the district schools of Masonville, afterwards giving his attention to the study of medicine, for which he showed an early predilection. When about twenty years of age, he studied with Dr. I. J. Whitney of his town, remaining with him about three years. He attended the New York Medical College for two years, graduating in 1882. After receiving his diploma, he came to Masonville, and bought out the practice of Dr. Whitney. He then went to New Berlin for two years, afterward going to Valentine, Neb., staying there one year. His next location was at Hornellsville, N.Y., whence in 1889 he returned to Masonville, where he has remained ever since, and has built up a very large practice. He was married September 12, 1882, to Miss Betsy A. McKinnon, a daughter of Daniel and Adeline S. McKinnon of this town.

Dr. and Mrs. Smith have no children. Mrs. Smith is a member of the Presbyterian church. In politics the Doctor is allied with the Republican party, and is not one who shirks the responsibilities of office. He was elected Supervisor in 1892, and re-elected in 1894. He is a member of Masonville Lodge, No. 606. A. F. & A. M., of which he is Master. Dr. Smith is an extremely capable and popular man, well informed and practical, an ornament to his profession, and a highly useful, public-spirited citizen.


MRS. ELIZABETH W. ALEXANDER, widow of the late Charles Alexander, may properly be counted among the most esteemed and respected women of Walton where she is well know as a devoted mother, a true friend, and a genial acquaintance. Her father, Malcom Wright, was a native of Scotland, where he was born in 1805. When seventeen years of age, he came with his parents to America, and settled in Delhi, Delaware County, N.Y. Here he married in 1828 Margaret Shaw, and commenced life as a farmer, being possessor, in company with his two brothers of a large farm. With one of these brothers, he later purchased a farm of one hundred and fifty acres in Walton, about two and one-half miles above the village; and it was on this estate that Malcom and Margaret Wright lived for many years, and reared a family of six daughters and three sons.

Seven of these children are still living, and, with one exception, all are residents of the town of Walton. John Wright, the only member of the family who has forsaken the town of his birth, is now a resident of California, the Golden State and Italy of America. After a long period of faithful labor in his adopted home Malcom Wright died in 1877, at the age of eighty-three years, passed away, their bodies now resting side by side in the Walton cemetery, where a fitting monument marks the graves of the beloved husband and wife.

Elizabeth W. Wright, the subject of this sketch, was married October 19, 1854, to Charles Alexander, who was born in Pound Ridge, Conn., in 1833, son of John and Susan (Knapp) Alexander. When Charles Alexander was a small boy, his parents moved to New York, settling at Unadilla, and a few years later removed to Walton, where they became the possessors of one hundred and sixty acres of fine farm land. Of the four sons and one daughter born to them here two of the sons, Charles and Albert, and the daughter, Mrs. William Townsend, are still living, and occupy their pleasant homes in Walton.

For fifteen years after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Charles Alexander operated their farm with great success, but at length bought a small piece of land near the village, and a few years ago erected a fine, pleasant home at 94 North Street. Here Mr. Alexander died September 15, 1888, having reached the age of fifty-six years. By his unbounded industry and patience he had accumulated a goodly amount of worldly possessions, which at his death became the property of his widow and four daughters. One of these daughters, Elma S., wife of Charles Pierson, died June 17, 1891, aged thirty-five years, leaving one child, Nellie M. Pierson.

Mrs. Pierson had been a teacher in the public schools, where she was greatly beloved; and her family has the most profound sympathy of a host of friends in their great bereavement. The surviving daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander are: Jennie, wife of Welles L. Baker, of New York City; Mary and Martha, twin sisters, who reside with their mother at Walton, the former being a musician of some distinction. Mrs. Alexander and her daughters are members of the Congregational church of Walton, and take an active part in all the good work of this society, whereby the public is benefited and men and women are encouraged to lead nobler and better lives.


EBENEZER W. LINDSLEY, a highly respected citizen of Downsville, was born December 12, 1826, in Sullivan County, son of Samuel C. and Sebiah (Worden) Lindsley. Samuel C. was born May 16, 1798, and was the son of Nehemiah and Mary (Guildersleeve) Lindsley, the former of whom was born December 31, 1769, son of Joniah and Hannah C. Lindsley, who were of English descent.

Nehemiah came to Delaware County shortly before 1798, and during the first three years assisted Mr. Stone, a merchant on the Pine place, acting as clerk and shoemaking, and adapting himself generally to the work at hand. Mr. Stone, thinking him lonely with his family so far away, sent for Mrs. Lindsley and the children; but, contrary to expectation, this displeased Mr. Lindsley to such an extent that he wished them to return immediately. As the team with which the journey had been made had given out, they were obliged to stay. Some time after this Mr. Lindsley left Mr. Stone's employ, and settled in Lindsley Hollow, buying a farm of several hundred acres. He was for a short time with Mr. Wilson in the tanning business, in Lindsley Hollow, where he erected a house, barns, and out-buildings; and there is standing to-day a barn built by him in 1809. Mr. and Mrs. Nehemiah Lindsley had these children -- David, Ira, Samuel C., Ezra, Hannah, Agar, Rachel, Abigail, Cyrus G., and Sarah M. Both Mr. and Mrs. Lindsley were Presbyterians, and the church lost a faithful worker when he died, August 8, 1835. His wife survived him several years, and died December 30, 1850.

Samuel C. Lindsley, the third son of Nehemiah, was born in New Jersey, but was brought in his infancy to Delaware County, where he continued to live until after his marriage. He took up surveying , and successfully followed this throughout the remainder of his life. He taught common schools a long time, beginning when he was sixteen. In September, 1824, he married Sebiah Worden, daughter of Pardon and Mary (Haines) Worden. She was born May 8, 1794 and died in Mary, 1864. They raised a family of four children, namely: Phoebe Calista, who died when young; Ebenezer W., the subject of this sketch; Ira D., born April 30, 1828; and Emeline Adelia, born November 29, 1828: and Emeline Adelia, born November 29, 1829, who married John Baer, and now lives in Walton. After his marriage Samuel C. bought two hundred acres of his father's farm, erected a house and barn, lived here about twenty-nine years, and then sold out and went to Walton. A little later he went to Downsville, where his wife died, and then to Sand Pond to live with his daughter, but finally came back to Downsville, and here died March 6, 1878. Mr. S. C. Lindsley was a strong Democrat, and was greatly interested in all that concerned the town and the people. He held several public offices, among them being that of Assessor and Commissioner of Highways. He was a member of the Baptist church, as was also his wife.

Ebenezer W. Lindsley, who was born in Sullivan County, came to Downsville when a boy seven years of age, and was here reared to manhood. Deciding to follow his father's profession, he took up the study of surveying , and by diligent application, together with his father's assistance, he soon mastered this useful branch of mathematics, becoming in time one of the best and most patronized of Colchester's surveyors, his practice extending to the neighboring towns and counties. His first work in this line was done in 1849, when he surveyed the old Wilson property; and shortly after he corrected the lines of Baxter farm on Baxter Mountain. April 15, 1851, he entered the store of Downs & Elwood (located where F. B. Bear's block now stands) as clerk, and in May, 1855, was taken as a partner in the firm, continuing in this but three years. In May, 1858, he sold out and went West, seeking for a good location in which to establish himself, and during this time visited Wisconsin and Kansas. But, meeting with little success in this quest, he finally came back to the town where he had started in life, and on February 1, 1859, bought his old stand, and carried on a general store for about ten years, when he sold out, and then gave his whole attention to surveying.

On October 10, 1855, Ebenezer W. Lindsley married Mary A. Finch, born Mary 7, 1826, the daughter of Jesse and Hulda (Mallory) Finch. Mrs. Mary A. Lindsley died Mary 21, 1857, leaving one child, Lilian E., born October 3, 1856, who is now married to Henry Bates, lives in Walton, and has a family of three children. On April 23, 1860, Mr. Lindsley married for his second wife Julia Ann Shaffer, born August 20, 1821, daughter of Colonel Adam and Helena (Yeaples) Shaffer, and by this second marriage has one child, Mary Emma, born August 23, 1863, who resides at home, and is a teacher of music. Three brothers, Jacob, Adam, and Philip Shaffer, came to Delaware County, and settled. Adam, the eldest son of Philip Shaffer, raised a family of twelve children, namely: Sally; Daniel. B.; Aaron P.; Deborah A.; Jane C.; Asa G.; Julia A.; Nicholas Y.; Adeline; La Fayette; Morgan S.; and Helena, Mrs. Lindsley. Colonel and Mrs. Shaffer were members of the Baptist church, and died many years ago, she in Jun, 1831, and he in June, 1854.

Mr. Lindsley is an honored and trusted member of the community in which he lives, was executor of the estate of G. W. Downs , son of Abel Downs, who started a small store in Downsville in 1798, was administrator of the R. W. Elwood estate, and has held several town offices, such as Clerk and Assessor, where he has faithfully performed the work assigned him. He is a Prohibitionist, and what better thing could be said of a man than that he is a worker for the cause of temperance? He has been Notary Public continuously since April 1, 1867.


MYRON HILL, a wealthy farmer of Kortright, was born in that town January 18, 1824, and is a son of Cyrus and Abigail (Burdict) Hill. His grandfather, John Hill, was one of the first settlers of Kortright, and a shoemaker by trade. He was a local preacher of the Methodist faith, and spent the last days of his life in Livingston County, where he died at the age of eighty years. His wife, Phoebe Smith Hill was also an octogenarian, and was the mother of a large family, of which Benjamin Hill, of Livingston County, is the sole survivor.

Cyrus Hill was born in Kortright, September 18, 1794, and died in 1834, at Bloomville. He was a hard-working farmer, and by his industry and honorable dealing made a comfortable fortune. Politically, he was a Democrat. The Methodist Episcopal church found in him a consistent member. His wife was Abigail Burdict, born April 27, 1794, in Kortright, a daughter of Alden Burdict, a pioneer of that town. She lived to be seventy-eight years old, and was the mother of five children, four of whom are living, namely: Alden A., of Stamford; Myron of whom we write; Elizabeth, the wife of Lewis Avery, of Kortright; and Freelove Jane, residing with her brother Myron. A daughter, Louisa, died at the age of sixty-five years. Mrs. Abigail Hill was an adherent of the Baptist church.

Myron Hill was educated in the district school until fourteen years of age, when he started out in life for himself, working on the farm of John Avery, and receiving ten dollars per month. In 1859 he assumed the control of his grandfather Burdict's farm, agreeing to pay off the debts and support the aged couple for life. In this undertaking he was eminently successful. The present farm contains four hundred acres, the original purchase consisting of sixty-nine acres. Mr. Hill is industrious and thrifty, and by his untiring efforts and indomitable perseverance has increased his farm to its present large proportions. He leases about two hundred acres, and cultivates the rest himself, devoting his time to stock-raising and dairying. He has never married, his sister living with him and taking charge of the household affairs. Mr. Hill is liberal in his religious views, and a Democrat in politics, eminently successful in his occupation, and respected throughout the town where he resides.


LORENZO D. KELLY is a prominent resident at Kelly's Corners in the town of Middletown, Delaware County, but was born in Halcottsville, in the same county, September 29, 1831, the son of Hiram Kelly, who was born August 8, 1784, in Putnam county, New York, and his wife, Sally Borden, whose birth was on January 15, 1784. his paternal grandparents were David and Susan (Jones) Kelly. David Kelly was born in Putnam County, and came to Delaware county as a pioneer farmer in 1802, taking up land in Halcottsville, now owned by the Kelly brothers. His one hundred and thirty acres were part of the wilderness. yet, when the family came thither, they brought all but one child, the journey being accomplished in wagons. Of their seven children five grew up to adult age--Susan, Reuben, Phineas, Norman, and Hiram Kelly. The little hut which already stood on the place eventually became but a central point surrounded by houses, barns and a grist-mill: and there David Kelly lived till he lacked only four years of a complete century. His wife did not live so long by sixteen years, but eighty may be considered a reasonably good old age. In religion they were stanch Presbyterians, and the grandfather was a private in the Revolutionary War. He was the more prosperous in his undertakings because he owned the only mill in this section of the country.

The birthplace of his son, Hiram Kelly, was in the south-east part of Putnam County, near what is now called Dykeman Station, but was then called Bullet Hole. After the removal, which took place when he was eighteen year old, Hiram assisted his father on the new farm and in the mill. In later years he came into possession of the homestead, adding thereto some two hundred and fifty acres more land, besides enlarging and remodeling all the buildings. His wife, Sally Borden, was the daughter of Joseph Borden, an early settler on the farm adjoining the one where Hiram L. Kelly now lives. Hiram and Sally Kelly had ten children: Judah, born January 21, 1809; Jane Ann, born March 17, 1812; Caroline, born February 8, 1815; John, born January 20, 1818; Electa, born October 20, 1819; Emeline, born September 24, 1822; Deborah, born November 4, 1824; Hiram B., born July 16, 1827; Norman, born on the last day of June, 1829; Lorenzo D., born September 29, 1831, and named doubtless for the eccentric but large-hearted Christian who in those days went from hamlet to hamlet throughout the States, preaching the gospel with fervor. On this farm Hiram Kelly continued to live until his death, at threescore and ten, his wife living to be seven years older. Mrs. Kelly was a member of the Baptist church. In politics he was first a Whig and afterward a Republican, and rejoiced at the national triumph of the Republican party during the year preceding his death, in 1861.

Whatever education the youngest son received was in the district schools. In 1853, at the age of twenty-two, Lorenzo began farming at Bragg hollow where he bought one hundred and fifty acres, and married Sarah Ann smith, daughter of Hiram and Susan (Chase) Smith. Father Smith was the son of Edward Smith, a native of Kent, Putnam County, where he not only carried on a farm but was County Judge. He lived to be fourscore, was a Democrat, and left six children-Polly, Hiram, Phoebe, Clara, James, Edward, and Joseph Smith. Hiram Smith was a farmer in Putnam County till his death at the are of forty. His wife died at thirty-six and they left two children, Naomi and Sarah Ann Smith, the latter becoming the wife of Lorenzo Kelly. She was born October 19, 1831, a month after her husband. Mr. and Mrs. Kelly lived in Bragg Hollow six years, and then sold their farm and removed to Prink Street, where they bought two hundred and six acres, and lived for another six years. In 1864, they again sold out, and bought their present estate of the same size, two hundred and sixty acres, in the village now named Kelly's Corners, after Mr. Kelly himself. About twenty years later, in 1886, he built a fine large dwelling-house, besides new farm buildings, barns, and a house to let. There he leads at present a comparatively retired life. He and his wife have four children: Emma F. Kelly was born August 26, 1859, and is married to A.F. Sweet, a wagon-maker in the village. Edward Kelly was born December 13, 1855, and died, greatly lamented, on June 13, 1871, before he was sixteen years old. Clara J. Kelly was born December 15, 1862, and died July 21, 1884, at twenty-two, the beloved wife of B. L. Searl, of Margarettville. W. Grant kelly was born September 1, 1870, and is still at home, helping his father.

Mr. Kelly is a Republican. The family attend the New -school Baptist church. Their residence is on the banks of the Delaware River, where in summer twenty or thirty boarders from the city find a most attractive home. In every nook of the village is felt the influence of Mr. kelly, easily its first citizen in progress and public enterprise.


CHARLES GILBERT HOUCK, carpenter, contractor, and builder, residing in Walton, is conducting a successful and well-established business, which occupies an important position among the various industries of this flourishing town. Reed's Creek, in the town of Hancock, was the place of his birth, which occurred on December 11,1858. His father, Levi T. Houck, one of Walton's valued citizens, a son of the late Rufus Houck, was born in the town of Franklin, November 4, 1838.

Rufus Houck, who was presumably of New England parentage, was born in Dutchess County in the year 1801, and departed this life in Delaware County about the year 1875. He was three times married. his first wife lived but a few months after marriage. By his second wife, whose maiden name was Rhoda Whaley, and who was a native of Massachusetts, he had seven children, namely: Rufus, a farmer, residing on Beer's Brook in Walton; Edwin, also a farmer, a resident of Reed's Creek in Hancock; Cordelia, the widow of Jonathan Bolton, of Harvard; Levi T., of Walton; maria, who married her cousin, Abram Houck, residing in Mansonville; Mariette, the widow of Edwin Denio, step-son of Rufus Houck, living in Hancock; and LeGrand, a resident of Walton. After the death of the mother of these children Rufus Houck married Phoebe (Lewis) Denio, the widow of Joseph Denio, and the daughter of Henry and Mercy (Holly) Lewis. She is now deceased, the only surviving member of the family of her parents being Mr. Joseph Lewis, and aged farmer of Shelby County, Iowa. Of this union one child was born, Zeliaette, the wife of Dwight Curtis, of Walton, both of whom are deceased.

Levi T. Houck was reared among the rural pioneer scenes of earlier years, and educated in the old log school-house on Reed's Brook, which had the customary puncheon floor and old-fashioned open fireplace. He remained at home assisting his father in clearing the farm until his marriage, when he began life on his own account. He married Jerusha Denio, the daughter of his step-mother, and a sister of Edwin Denio, the husband of his sister Mariette. Besides the subject of this sketch, four sons and one daughter were born of their marriage, the others being as follows: Julius, a farmer at Carpenter's Eddy; Erkson, a real estate dealer in Antigo, Wis.; Sylvester, a resident of Rock Ritt; Hattie M., a dressmaker, living at home; and Abram, a farmer, on Baxter Brook.

Charles G. Houck, the eldest son of Levi, was brought up on the home farm, and had a common-school education. Possessing a good deal of mechanical ingenuity and little taste for a farmer's life, he began when about eighteen to learn the carpenter's trade, which he has continued to follow; and as a contractor and builder as well as a carpenter, he has met with excellent success. He is an energetic, active citizen, whose public-spiritedness is unquestioned, and is a warm supporter of the principles of the Republican party. He is warmly interested in the American Protective Association, of which he is a member, and is also influential in the wigwams of the Red Men, having passed the chairs.

Mr. Houck was united in wedlock September 23, 1885, to Miss Jennie H. Howland, a native of Walton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William P. Howland, the latter of whom died in 1879, leaving her widowed husband and four children to mourn her loss. Mr. and Mrs. Houck have no children of their own; but they have an adopted son, Philo C. Houck, the son of Sylvester Houck. He is an active little lad, eight years old, quick at his studies, and already showing a good deal of mechanical genius. The cosey and comfortable home of this family, into which they moved in 1891, is pleasantly located on St. John's Street, and is made very attractive to their many friends. In religion both Mr. and Mrs. Houck are worthy and active member of the Methodist Episcopal church.


DR. HENRY A. GATES, one of the leading physicians of Delhi, was born in Franklin, Delaware County, N.Y., December 9, 1849, and is a son of William H. and Marietta (Strong) Gates. William Gates, the grandfather, was an early settler in the town of Franklin, beginning life there in a log cabin, but as his means increased, built a fine frame house and out-buildings. He spent his life on the farm which was brought by his energy and care to a high state of cultivation. He was the father of three children- James, Herman, and William.

William H. Gates, the father of Henry A., was educated in the district schools of Franklin, and, as was the custom in those days, went to school in the winter and assisted his father on the farm during the summer. Upon reaching his majority he purchased a farm of his own, upon which he and his help-mate quietly passed their days. He married Miss Marietta Strong, a daughter of William Strong, of Meredith, and their union was blessed by the birth of four children-Henry A., Clifford J., Julia A. (the widow of Samuel J. Donnelly), and William H.

Dr. Henry A. Gates received his early education at the district schools of Franklin and at the Franklin Literary Institute, where he remained for two years. He then began the study of medicine with Dr. Ira Wilcox, of Franklin, with whom he prepared for college. In 1874 he entered Bellevue College, being graduated with high honors in 1877. Upon the completion of his college career, he commenced practice in Delhi, and has continued here ever since. he makes a specialty of diseases of the eye and ear, being well known in this branch of the profession throughout the county. he is a prominent member of both the State and county medical societies.

Dr. Gates was married in 1880 to Miss Jeanette C. Hudson, daughter of Mrs. M.D. Hudson, a representative of one of the oldest and most prominent families in Delhi. In politics he is a stanch supporter of the Republican party, but has never sought any public office. He is a member and Trustee of the First Presbyterian Church, in which he takes a deep interest, and is also a trustee of the Delaware Academy. The genial manners and kindly disposition of Dr. Gates have made his esteemed by all classes; and , as he is still in the prime of vigor and manhood, he has the promise of many years of usefulness in the pursuit of his profession, of which he is a distinguished member.


O.D. WOOD one of the most popular station agents on the Ulster & Delaware Railroad, was born April 12, 1862. His grandfather, David Wood, was born in Connecticut, and removed to Delaware County, where he engaged in farming, living to a good old age. William Wood, son of David and father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Connecticut, November 11, 1824. He received a good district-school education, and at an early age began to work on a farm. He had the misfortune to break his arm; and, as there were no skilled surgeons in his vicinity at that time, it was not properly set, and troubled him for the remainder of his life. He learned the shoemaker's trade, and first worked at Grand Gorge. He married Sarah M. Fredenburgh, who was born May 10,1830, the daughter of John and Fanny (Maybie) Fredenburgh. The latter was born in Schoharie County, and was one of the early settlers of Gilboa, buying one hundred and fifty-six acres of land at Grand Gorge, where he was very prosperous as a farmer. He had a family of sixteen children. He was a Republican in politics, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Fanny Maybie was a daughter of John Maybie, a farmer and one of the early settlers, who raised six children. William Wood had six children, namely: Fannie J., who was born December 24, 1856, and died October 15, 1861; Malinda A. Wood, who was born December 16, 1859, and died October 14, 1861; O.D., the subject of this biography; Fanny E., who was born August 29, 1864, and married Charles G. Keator, a farmer of Grand Gorge, and has one child; Alfred L., who was born August 28, 1870, and now lives with his brother, O.D. Wood; Albert, the twin brother of Alfred, died September 9, 1871.

O.D. Wood lived at the home of his parents, and was educated in the district schools. At the age of seventeen he entered the store of W. P. More as a clerk, and there remained for two years. He then learned telegraphing, remaining in his first position two years. For one season after that he took charge of the station at Tannersville, Greene County, on the Kaaterskill Railroad, going from there to Pine Hill, where he stayed one year. May 1, 1886, he was appointed station agent at Grand Gorge, and since remained here.

Mr. Wood married Ellen J. Bunt, daughter of Ann M. (Wase) and William bunt, a farmer of Tannersville. Mr. and Mrs. Bunt have eight children-Ellen, Emma, Bertha, Edith, Edward, George, Lillian, and Frank. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have one child, Sophie Marguerite.

Mr. Wood is a Republican in politics and an esteemed member of the Methodist Episcopal church. In his work as station agent he has come in contact with many people, all of whom speak of him in the highest terms. He is always kind and thoughtful of others, thus making many friends.


GEORGE W. FITCH, ex-President of the Delaware County Bank, and now Treasurer of the Delaware Loan and Trust Company, one of the most prominent merchants of Walton, N.Y., was born in this town on December 10, 1837. His parents were Nathaniel and Sally (Benedict) Fitch. His grandfather, Nathaniel Fitch, was born in New Canaan, Conn., January 8, 1770, and was married to Anna Smith, born May 1, 1767. About 1810 the family came to Walton and settled, the country being then a comparative wilderness; and here Mr. Fitch took up an extensive tract of land, which was soon cleared and brought under cultivation. He and his wife were the parents of six children, all of whom have passed away from earthly scenes. The eldest, Polly, born December 27, 1792, married Simms Hanford, died in Delaware County. Anna, born July 15, 1795, married Anson White, and lived in North Walton. Nathaniel, born June 1, 1797, married on October 2, 1817, Sally Benedict. Esther, born May 23, 1799, died single in Walton. Eliza, born December 2, 1809, died in 1837. Charles S., born May 31, 1812, died May 14, 1893.

Nathaniel, the father of the subject of this sketch, was a man of sterling worth and integrity, and was highly respected for his many good qualities. He was engaged in mercantile pursuits up to the time of his death, which took place August 12, 1872, at the age of seventy-five. His widow, Mrs. Sally B. Fitch, died February 17, 1879. They were the parents of ten children: George N., born August 10,1818, died December 30, 1837. Sarah, born June 24, 1822, is the wife of Dr. A. E. Sullard, a representative of his district in the Assembly. Maria died in infancy. William, born October 23, 1827, died May 20, 1836. Mary E. died in infancy. Julia A., born December 24, 1831, married the Hon. N.C. Marvin, of Walton. Lyman M., born March 10, 1835, married Elizabeth N. Green in September 1859.

George W. Fitch, the eighth child of Nathaniel and Sally Fitch, has been for many years one of the representative business men of Walton. He was taken into partnership by his father in 1859; and in 1866 his brother was also admitted to the firm, which was known as N. Fitch & Sons. The firm is now Fitch Brothers & Seeley.

Mr. Fitch was married May 30, 1861, to Miss Harriet Sinclair, born December 27, 1839, in Stamford, in the eastern part of the county. By this union there were five children of whom the eldest, maria M., born January 23, 1863, died June 26, 1882. Edward, born May 27, 1864, is Assistant Professor of Greek at Hamilton College, of which he was a graduate in the class of 1886. He took a position at Park College for three years, when he was called back to Hamilton. He is in Germany at the present time, perfecting his studies. George S., born May 12, 1866, has held the position of cashier of the Delaware County Bank, and is now cashier of the Bank of Auburn. Roderick, born November 3, 1867, married Miss Adelaide Hawley, a daughter of John B. Hawley. Anna S., the only daughter now living, was born August 22, 1869, and resides with her parents.

Mr. Fitch is a member of the Republican party, but is not an ardent politician. He has been Town Clerk for one term, and was also a member of the school committee. He has been eminently successful as a merchant, possessing industry, integrity, and good judgment, and is one of those enterprising men who give life and spirit to a town, promoting its steady growth, and whose influence is sure to be felt after they shall have departed.

The accompanying portrait of Mr. Fitch is doubly interesting as being a very good likeness of one of the leading citizens of Walton and as representing a descendant of two prominent pioneer families of Delaware County, who came here from Connecticut, Fitch and Benedict.


DUDLEY BALDWIN DEAN, one of the leading farmers of Masonville, Delaware County, N.Y., was born in that town, December 13, 1828, his parents being Reuben Dean, who was born in Connecticut, June 10, 1797, and Abigail Gould Dean, born in Saratoga County, New York, October 30, 1804.

Reuben Dean began life's battle for himself at the early age of eleven years, hiring himself out to farmers by the month, and moving from one place to another. In 1814 he came to Masonville, and worked for a Mr. Smith, a Justice of the Peace, remaining with him for six years. Being diligent and saving he accumulated enough money to buy a small farm of his own, purchasing the one now occupied by his son, Milton P. Dean. He resided on the farm until his death, which took place when he was sixty-seven years of age. Mrs. Dean is living at the present day, having arrived at the advanced age of ninety years. Twelve children were born to them, ten of whom are still living, namely: Mrs. Mary A. Colby, of Saratoga County; Gustavus Dean of Sidney; Dudley Baldwin Dean, Mrs. Jane E. Smith, Milton P. Dean, Mrs. Julia A. Donohue, all of Masonville; Mrs. Adelaide Sherman, of Ballston, Saratoga County; Mrs. Orline Seeley, of Iowa: Reuben Dean , of Saratoga County; and Orville Dean, of Masonville.

Dudley B. Dean was educated in the district schools of Masonville, living at home and helping on the farm until he was of age when he worked out and managed to save money out of his wages of twelve dollars a month. He set to work and erected a small house sixteen feet by twenty, where he kept bachelor hall for three years. His first purchase of land comprised sixty-seven acres; but he has added to it from time to time, until he now owns four hundred and ten acres of the finest farm land in the county, which has been gained by his own hard, honest toil.

Mr. Dean has a fine dairy, keeping forty-nine head of cattle, besides other stock. He has filled the position of Poor Master for two years, and at the present time is Excise Commissioner. In politics he is a Democrat, and both he and his wife are members of the Baptist church.

Mr. Dean was married, September 30, 1854, to Matilda Clarissa Hill, a native of the adjoining town of Tompkins. By this union he has had seven children, all of whom are living namely: Royal D. Dean, a farmer of Masonville; Mrs. Abigail Jackson of Masonville; Uriah P. Dean, a farmer of Tompkins; Gould Dean, a farmer in Masonville; Mrs. Mary J. Blencoe, of Unadilla; Dudley B. Dear, residing at home; and Mrs. Clarissa M. Webb, of Unadilla.

Mr. Dean is known as one of the most prosperous and substantial farmers of Masonville. Both his public and private life have been above reproach; and, filling the important positions to which he has been elected with dignity and credit, he has always given his time and influence to the advancement of his native town.


CLARK A. GOULD, a retired merchant of Walton, was born in this town on November 12, 1841, of old pioneer ancestry. His grandfather, Luther Gould, was a native of Connecticut, whence he removed to Delaware County, New York, and settled among the few inhabitants here at the beginning of the century. Luther Gould's wife was Abigial Beers; and they were the parents of four children, namely: Anna; Luther, the father of the subject of this sketch; John; and Harry. Grandfather Gould died when about fifty years of age; but his widow lived to reach the good old age of seventy-eight years, dying in 1835. They had been farmers since pioneer times, who by their earnest daily toil and strict economy succeeded in keeping the wolf from the door and living in comparative comfort.

Much trouble was experienced in getting valid title to the land, as, after improvements had been made, new claimants would appear with claims originating with some old English grants; and to avoid litigation, with possible defeat at the end, the farm would be rebought at the expense of every dollar which had been saved, and notes given for the amount lacking. It was only after the farm was allowed to be sold for taxes and redeemed from the State that these persecutions ceased.

Young Luther was born on the old homestead in 1806, and died there in 1861. On June 2, 1839, he was married to Miss Mary M.E. Alverson, who was born in Tompkins in 1807, and died in 1873, leaving two children: the subject of this sketch; and his sister Harriet, wife of Jared Chase, of Rock Rift.

Clark A. Gould was reared in the home of his birth; and there he became instructed in primitive methods of farming, at the same time attending the district school, where he succeeded in conquering the three R's --- Reading, Rinting, and Rithmetic. His studies, however, were abruptly terminated by the illness of his father, which made it necessary that young Clark leave school, and attend to the management of the farm. When twenty-one years of age, his father having died, leaving the farm encumbered with debts, he sold the farm, and began business as the proprietor of the general store at Rock Rift, where he remained for twenty-five years, leaving that place to take up residence in Walton. He purchased his present house in 1889.

His first wife, Mary Chase, a daughter of Augustus B. Chase, became the mother of one son, Bertis M. Gould, who received his education and was graduated at the high school in the town of Walton, and is now a salesman in the dry goods store. Mrs. Gould died in 1871, when but twenty-seven years old. Mr. Gould was again married on September 3, 1873, to Miss Maggie Wilson of Downsville, daughter of Charles and Rachel (Van De Bogart) Wilson. Her father died November 7, 1894, nearly ninety-two years of age. Her mother is till living, aged seventy-eight. Mr. and Mrs. Gould have three children, as follows: Luther, who died when a child of nineteen months; Vernon, who died at the age of seven months; and Clark Sumner who was born May 27, 1880.

Mr. Gould is a Royal Arch Mason, and a consistent Republican. He has held the position of Postmaster and Justice of the Peace many years. Mr and Mrs. Gould attended the United Presbyterian Church of Walton, of which Mrs. Gould is a member. Mr. Gould is man of genial disposition and engaging manner, an example of nobility of character, firmness of principle, and uncommon business capabilities, one whom his fellow-citizens regard with respect and deference.


WILLIAM E. HOLMES, one of the most successful and best-know business men of Downsville, in the town of Colchester, was born in Hamden, September 27, 1836, a son of John A. and Rachel B. (Lindley) Holmes. He is one of a family of fourteen children, eleven of whom reached maturity --- Orpah, James W., Ephraim L. Sarah A., Samuel O., William E., Mary A., Jonathan A., John N., Viola A., and Ellen.

John A. Holmes was born in 1803, and grew to manhood without the usual advantages of education. He learned the shoemaker's trade; but, having an active mind and a desire to improve his circumstances, he devoted his evenings to study and reading until he felt qualified to enter mercantile life. He began in the lumber business and farming, and soon became one of the largest lumber dealers in Delaware County, being a self-made man with a clear head, good judgement, and remarkable business qualifications. He accumulated a comfortable fortune, owing at one time over eight hundred acres. He purchased of Jackson Merrill the farm now known as the Hawley place; and here he lived with his wife, Rachel Lindsley, a daughter of Nehemiah and Mary (Gildersleeve) Lindsley. Nehemiah Lindsley moved to Delaware County in 1797, and operated a tannery in company with Isaac Wilson, becoming the possessor of about six hundred acres of land in Lindsley Hollow, where he was an industrious and successful farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Lindsley were the parents of ten children --- David, Ira, Samuel, Ezra, Hannah, Agar, Rachel, Abigail, Cyrus G. And Sarah --- all of whom have passed away. The father of this family died August 8, 1835; and his wife's death occurred December 30, 1850. Mr Lindsley was a Whig, and both he and his wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. The family of Mr. Holmes lived on the farm until his death, January 25, 1865. He was a Republican, and a member of the Presbyterian Church. William E. Holmes grew up on his father's farm, and was educated at the Franklin Literary Institute. He adopted the vocation of a teacher, receiving the first term twenty-five dollars month and board. The fourth year his salary had been increased to fifty dollars a month and expenses. At the close of that time he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Forty-fourth New York Volunteers, and was discharged in May 1863, re-enlisting in September, 1864, and serving until the close of the war. He was first Lieutenant in the First New York Volunteer, and took part in the engagements at Honey Hill and Bull's Bay. On returning home Mr. Holmes entered merchantile life in Downsville opposite the present Presbyterian church. In 1868 he erected a store on the site now occupied by him' and started a general store, which he enlarged in 1890, making it fifty by seventy-five feet, three stories high. He and his two sons, Augustus B, and Charles J., now compose the firm, which carries a large stock of groceries, dry goods, furnishing goods, and agricultural implements. The business of this enterprising firm is constantly increasing. The third floor of the building is rented to Masons and other societies.

January 9, 1866, Mr. Holmes married Miss Frances D. Bassett, a daughter of Phillip and Margaret (Hitt) Bassett. Phillip Bassett was born January 7,1804, and died July 27, 1866. February 25, 1835, he married Margaret Hitt, born December 16, 1802, and died November 9, 1849. There were the parents of two children: Francis D., born October 25, 1842, and George P. After the death of his first wife Phillip Bassett married Maria L. Barbour, December 24, 1851. Mr. and Mrs. William Holmes have had four children: Augustus B., born December 28, 1868; Charles J., born December 9, 1870: William E., born January 13, 1876, and died February 16, 1879; George S., born February 14, 1881. Charles J. Married Lina M. Warren, June 20, 1894, and still resides with his parents. Mr. Holmes is the owner of the saw-mill and the adjoining land, known as the Downs tannery site, and, in company with his son George, engages extensively in the manufacture of shingles, laths, and other lumber. He also possesses five hundred acres of land in different parts of Colchester. He rents his farms and operates four dairies, owning one hundred cows and fifteen teams. Each and every part of his various enterprises receives his personal attention, and it is by this means that his success has been so remarkable.

The residence of Mr. Holmes in Downsville is one of the finest in the town, and here his many friends ever receive a gracious welcome. He is a member of the Downsville Lodge, No. 464, A. F. & A. M., a member of the Independant Order of the Oddfellows Lodge; and he and his wife are attendants of the Presbyterien church. Mr. Holmes is an active, energetic business man; and he and his sons deserve great praise for their enterprise and progressive ability.


JAMES W. KELSO, a highly respected and well-known farmer of the town of Kortright, was born in Davenport, Delaware County, N. Y., April 2, 1825, and is a son of Seth and Ann (Ferguson) Kelso, the former a native of Orange County , and the latter of Kortright. The grandfather, Robert Kelso, and his father John, were natives of Londonderry, Ireland, both of whom came to America, and located in Orange County, New York, afterward coming to Kortright, settling here about 1798. John Kelso lived to the advanced age of one hundred and six years, and was buried at Kortright Centre. Robert Kelso followed the occupation of a farmer, leasing the land which he occupied under the old lease system. He died at the age of sixty, leaving four sons and two daughters, all of whom are now deceased.

Seth Kelso, father of the subject of this sketch, was brought up as a farmer, working hard but successfully. About 1828 he settled on the farm now owned by his son James, erected a fine frame house, and added to his property unitl at the time of his death he owned two hundred and fifty-seven acres. He was the father of two children: Elizabeth, the wife of Nicholas Feak, of this county; and James W. Mr. and Mrs. Kelso were both members of the Reformed Presbyterian church of Kortright. Mr. Kelso died at the age of seventy-eight, and his wife at the age of seventy-five.

James W. Kelso received his education at the district schools. He purchased the old homestead, and during his entire life has devoted his attention to farming. Mr. Kelso posesses untiring energy and perseverance, and has made many improvements on his farm, which is a model one. He can justly look with pride upon the fine home which he owns, as being the result of his unaided efforts. He married October 10, 1871, Elizabeth Ballantine, of Davenport, becoming his wife. She is the daughter of Robert and Mary Ballantine, both of whom are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Kelso have had five children, three of whom are living,, namely: Mary E., born July 24, 1874; James H., born May 29, 1878; and John E. , December 25, 1879. Annabelle, born May 19, 1876, died October 25, 1879; Seth, born March 15, 1873, died May 1, 1873.

The family are members of the Reformed Presbyterian church at Kortright, Mr. Kelso being an Elder and an active worker in all church matters. In politics he is a Prohibitionist.


GEORGE O. MEAD is a gentleman whose reputation as a man of affairs and business ability extends beyond the limits of his native State, and his name is known in connection with some of the most important transactions in his county. The ancestors of Mr. Mead were among the earliest settlers of Greenwich, Conn., where in 1725 was born General John Mead, son of John and Elizabeth Lockwood Mead.

General John Mead was a noted character; and stories of him still abound in the traditions of his native town, where his short, stout, figure and jovial face were familiar to all. In the early days of the Revolution, he was tendered a captain's commission by King George III, but declined, and joined the American forces, three weeks later becoming colonel in the patriot army. And afterward general. He had been a member of the Connecticut legislature before the war; and when trouble began, his beautiful home and fine farm at Horseneck was an excellent point of attack and a rich field of pillage for the British troops. The redcoats was every advantage here, and made short work of ransacking his house and driving his cattle away for their own use. His family were in great danger for a long time, but escaped, as did the General himself, although at one time he was in imminent danger of being discovered by his enemies. The wife of this famous soldier was Mary Brush, who was of Scotch descent. They had nine children, five sons and four daughters; and it is through their second son and sixth child, Allen, that George O. Mead is descended.

Allen Mead, grandfather of George O., was born October 24, 1774, and came to Walton from Connecticut about 1800, Walton at that time being scarcely large enough to be called a village. Here Allen Mead settled, and built a tannery on Mount Pleasant, afterward removing it to East Brook. In 1800 he married Mary Smith, who was born in New Canaan, Conn., in 1781; and to whom were born nine children, all but two of whom married. They are as follows: Abigail, the wife of Platt Townsend, who died at Dixon, Ill., at an advanced age, was the mother of three daughters; John Mead married Sophia Griswold, of Delhi, and had two children --- Henry, of Atlanta, Ga., and Charlotte, who was the wife of George Colton, of Walton, and died leaving four children (John Mead's second wife was Matilda North); Mary Ann, the wife of Sylvester Bisrack, died March 5, 1886, when seventy-nine years of age, leaving three daughters: Gabriel Mead, the father of George O; Elizabeth, the wife of Dr. James McLaury, who died at Yonkers, N.Y., leaving two sons and three daughters; Andrew J. is unmarried and living in New York, a well-to-do and remarkably bright and intellectual man; Adeline, unmarried, died in Binghamton, June 21, 1892, when seventy-four years of age; Edward B. Mead died in Brooklyn in 1889 --- his wife was Charlotte Wood of Goshen; Frances, the wife of G.S. North, of Binghamton. Gabriel Mead married Eliza Ann Ogden, of Walton, daughter of Daniel and Phebe (Lindsley) Ogden, He was an important man in the town for many years, and at one time was sheriff of the county.

George O. Mead was born in Walton in 1842, and was an only child. He received his education at the Walton Academy, and then for five years served as clerk in several stores of the town. In 1862 he went to Delhi, being in the employ of Robert Douglass for one year, when he returned to Walton, and engaged in business with North and Eels. In 1864 Mr. Mead enlisted, and was assigned to Company G of the One Hundred and Forty-Fourth New York Volunteers, in which he served until the close of the war. In 1869 he started in business for himself in his native town, taking as a partner William Tellford, and locating on the corner where he has since remained. In 1874 Mr. Telford retired from the firm, and Mr. Eels became a partner; but about three years ago Mr. Mead became sole proprietor of the business. He carries a large line of boots and shoes, crockery, dry goods, and groceries, a specialty being made of the last named, and a most excellent line of goods always kept on hand. The business has so increased of late that it now occupies two floors of the large corner store.

Mr. Mead has held several public offices, having for thirteen years, 1877-90, been Supervisor. In 1889 he was a member of the Assembly, and served on the Committee on Banks, Canals, and General Laws; also on the committee to arrange a memorial to General Sheridan; he also has been a delegate to several political conventions. As chairman of the Board of Supervisors he was able by his ability to see and act upon the financial advantages of the occasion, and thus saved the county between six and seven thousand dollars. Since the organization of the Walton Water Company, Mr. Mead has been its Treasurer, at the present time being also President. For many years he has been a School Trustee. His business integrity has led to his selection as executor of many estates, not only in this county, but in many other places, one which came under his authority in Chicago involving some two hundred thousand dollars. In August, 1890, he was sent as delegate to the National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic at Boston. In 1867 and 1868 he served as Brigade Inspector of the old State militia. For many years Mr. Mead has been a prominent man in politics.

But the capacity in which Mr. Mead is perhaps best know is as the President of the First National Bank in Walton. From his youth he developed a great ability in financial affairs, and in 1874 became interested in the State bank at Walton, known as the Delaware County Bank, being elected Vice-President. On the 14th of January, 1891, the First National Bank of Walton was organized ; and he became its President, Samuel H. Fancher being Vice-President, and John Olmstead Cashier. This bank has a capital of fifty thousand dollars, with an ample surplus. The vault is constructed of brick; and in it is one of Herring's best safes, with a triple time lock and all the latest improvements for the safety of deposits. Everything in connection with the bank is done in the best way and according to the most approved methods; and the institution is constantly gaining in public favor, in the few years that it has been in operation having done an immense amount of business.

Mr. Mead was married to Frances Pattingill, daughter of the Rev. J. S. Pattingill, of Walton, Delaware County, N.Y. Of this union there were two daughters, one of whom, Florence Ogden, died July 9, 1884, at the age of fourteen years. Lillian is the wife of Professor F. A. Porter, of the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. While studying at that institution she was a pupil of Professor Porter, and later became his wife. They are now in Leipsic, Germany, continuing their study of that most delightful art, which they have chosen as a profession.

In 1890 the house of Allen Mead, on North Street, came into possession of Mr. Mead; and he had it thoroughly renovated and remodelled, so that it is now one of the largest and most beautiful residences in the town, presenting to the beholder the effect of the stability and dignity of the old manor house united with the beauty and delicacy of modern decoration. Mr. Mead has always been deeply interested in religious matters, and for twenty years has been connected with Sunday-school work, having had a class for that length of time. He is a man of spotless integrity --- one who has shown himself honest to the letter, and just to his fellow men. In all his transactions he has shown an astuteness which few possess, combined with disinterestedness and unselfishness of purpose, which are fully appreciated by his fellow-townsmen and the many friends who have reaped the benefit of his noble qualities and abilities.


JAMES R. FRAZIER, pastor of the United Presbyterian church at Davenport, was born August 27, 1834, in West Virginia, his parents being James and Mary (Orr) Frazier. The family originally came from Scotland, the grandfather, Samuel Frazier, emigrating to Ohio County, West Virginia, where he purchased a farm. He reared the following children: Samuel, William, Andrew, James, Robert, Robinson, Hamilton, Rosanna, Betsy, and Peggy.

James Frazier, Sr., was educated in the district schools, and brought up to agricultural pursuits. In 1855 he went to Ohio, where he purchased a farm, residing there, with the exception of two years, until his death, in 1899, at the age of eighty years. He was twice married, his second wife being Miss Mary Orr, daughter of Hugh Orr, a native of Ohio. Mrs. Frazier reared seven children; namely, James R., Mary, Rosanna, Hamilton, William, Emma, and Callie. Mrs. Frazier is still living at the advanced age of seventy-eight, and makes her home in Ohio.

James R. Frazier resided in Ohio until his twenty-fifth year. He was educated in the district schools, the graded school at St. Clairsville, and later attended Franklin College, Ohio, and the Theological College at Allegheny, Pa. After graduation he accepted his present charge at Davenport, and has resided there since 1879.

Mr. Frazier was married October 7, 1886, to Miss Ella Adee, a daughter of Augustus W. Adee, of Bovina; and their union has been blessed with four children --- James S., Mary D., Earle J., and Harold S. In politics Mr. Frazier joins issue with the Republican party. During his residence in Davenport he has had many friends. He is a gifted and talented preacher, a man of generous impulses, and thoroughly earnest and painstaking in his work; and under his pastorate the membership of his church has steadily increased.


JOHN B. MABLE, of Hamden, presents a type of upright, conscientious manhood, unobtrusive in prosperity, cheerful and resigned in adversity, universally respected and beloved by his townspeople and friends. His great-grandfather, Robert Mable, was a shepherd in the highlands of bonnie Scotland, living that poetic life extolled in verse and song, where one olds close communion with the wonders and glories of nature, a rugged life, too, of stern and uncomfortable realities. The wife of this sturdy shepherd was Janette Bell, and together they reared-five children.

One of these, named John, who was born in 1762, and brought up to follow his father's occupation, married Agnes Stevenson and in 1820, accompanied by his wife and five children, he left the old home in Scotland, and sailed for America. 'Here the family became scattered: the eldest son, Robert, who was born in 1803, married and settled in Georgia about 1831. His plantation was thirteen miles from Atlanta; and here he accumulated great wealth, having slaves, who had become his property on his marriage, being part of his wife's dowry. Sixteen of these slaves were freed by the war, and it is a curious fact that at the expiration of eight months one half of them had died. Mr. Mable was not favorably disposed toward the war; but three of his sons were obliged to serve in the rebel army, although they withstood the demand as long as possible. However, all three survived the terrible struggle, and are now residents of Georgia or Alabama. Mr. Mable's home was in the path of General Sherman in his famous march to the sea, and consequently, at the close of the war little remained of the beautiful place but devastation and ruin. The house had been used as a field hospital, and great did shot and shell make the destruction of it. The fences were entirely demolished, and for many years bullets were frequently found on and about the grounds. Although he had sustained a tremendous loss by the war, Robert Mable went to work with a will. And before his death in 1888 had managed in a great measure to reestablish his fallen fortunes.

Mary Mable, a sister of the younger Robert, became the wife of James N. Scott, a farmer and speculator of Andes, N.Y., in which town she died, in July 1869, the mother of five children. Another sister, Janette, married James Oliver, and passed away in 1874, leaving three children. The fifth child was James Mable, now living in Delhi, old in years, but with a heart yet young and fresh. Alexander, the fourth child of Mr. and Mrs. John Mable, was born in Roxburgh, Scotland, in 1810. In 1840 he married Rachel Brown of Bovina, daughter of James and Isabella (Forsyth) Brown. One son, whose life is narrated in this sketch, was the result of their union. Mrs. Mable, dying at the age of twenty-seven, soon after his birth. The second wife of Alexander Mable was Elizabeth Middlemast, who died in 1890, the mother of three sons and three daughters. He died March 9, 1893, after an eventful, upright life, having held several offices among which were those of Supervisor and Assessor. He was a stanch Republican, and an active member of the Scotch Presbyterian Church.

John B. Mable was born in the town of Delhi in 1841, and was brought up to farm life in his brother's Home. He attended the district school and later the Delhi Academy. At twenty one years of age he first engaged in teaching school and taught for eleven terms in this County and in Long Island, Michigan, and in Iowa. On January 5, 1870, he was married to Mary A. Davidson, of Delhi, daughter of George and Margaret (Dunn) Davidson. Mrs. Mable's father died in September 1887, in his eighty-fourth year, leaving a widow and nine children. Two of his sons were volunteers in the Civil War. John Davidson having enlisted in the Eighty-ninth New York Infantry, where he served for three years, and was shot in a skirmish near Norfolk. He died eleven months later, and his brother, Thomas, who had enlisted when but eighteen years of age in the One Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment, was killed in the Battle of Honey Hill. Mrs. Davidson was born in 1807, in Rochester, Northumberland County, in the north of England, a daughter of John and Margaret Dunn, and came to this country in 1831, with her husband, George Davidson, and her two children, being on the ocean for seven weeks in the good ship "Delta", Captain James Wood. Mr. Davidson was a native of the same county as his wife and was born in 1803. The family settled in West Delhi in a small clearing in the midst of the forest where they built a rough frame house. After the death OF Mr. Davidson the family removed to Hamden, and took up their residence with the youngest daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson were the parents of fourteen children. Six sons and five daughters growing to maturity and marrying. Four sons and four daughters are still living, all in this county, with the exception of Allan who is a farmer in California. Although Mrs. Davidson has been confined to her bed for two years, she still retains her mental faculties, and is able to read and write without glasses. She has a wonderfully strong constitution, and has passed through many hardships which she has met with patience and fortitude. Though receiving only a limited education in her childhood, she has done much toward self-improvement, and is now a most interesting and well-informed woman.

Mr. and Mrs. Mable have been called upon to part with both their beloved children, whose death made a sad break in the happy household. Their son, George D. Mable died at nine years of age, March 1, 1881, of scarlet fever, after a short illness of twenty-eight hours. Their daughter, M. Ray, a beautiful young girl, was taken away at the age of eighteen, in July, 1891. In their double sorrow the bereaved parents have had the heartfelt sympathy of a host of friends. Soon after their marriage in 1870, Mr. and Mrs. Mable removed to Charles City, Iowa, but returned to this state in 1876, and in 1886 occupied their present place, where they have a pleasant cottage and a small farm of forty-four acres. Here they keep a horse and twenty head of cattle, grade Jerseys, and furnish dairy products for the New York market. In July 1893, three of these choice cows, including one whose yield was about four hundred pounds of butter yearly, were killed by lightning. Mr. Mable is a representative Republican, is Overseer of the Poor, and has been Secretary of the Hamden Insurance Company for several years. Both he and his wife are devoted and deeply respected members of the Presbyterian church at DeLancey.


GEORGE BIEHLER, a respected citizen of Arkville, is a wagon-maker, and carries on a thriving business near the railway station. He is the son of Christjahn and Mary (Cunnerlin) Biehler, and was born in Germany. His mother, Mary (Cunnerlin)Biehler, was the daughter of Michael Cunnerlin, a farmer in Germany. His father, Christjahn Biehler, was also a farmer in Germany. Both parents died at the age of sixty-eight.

George Biehler, the subject of this sketch, received his education in Germany. And at the age of fifteen began to learn the trade of wagon-making. When quite a young man, he went to Switzerland, where he remained two years, coming from there to America in 1848. After a long and stormy passage of fourteen weeks, he landed in New York City on New Year's Day, and coming to Delaware County, tarried first in Roxbury, and from there went to Andes. Where he lived three years. He then went to Margarettville where he started in the wagon-making business. During the first year of his residence here he married Rebecca Warden, daughter of Ira Warden, a well-known farmer of Andes. Mr. Biehler remained in business at Margarettville for sixteen years, after which he sold out and bought a farm. Selling the farm, he next moved to Arkville, where he worked at farming five years, and then bought the house in which he lives at the present time, having in the lot adjoining the house a shop, in which, although quite an old man, he still does a good business.

Mr. Biehler has eight children: Edward R., a furniture dealer in New York, married Ella Chapman, and has two children. Marion O., married is a railroad conductor in Idaho. Willard. W., a brakeman, lives at Union Hill, N.Y.; he married Sadie Peets, and has one child. Myra C. married William Steinhauf of Vermilion, Kan. Chancy H. lives at home. Emma married J. Van Benscotten of New Kingston. Cora, wife of H.M.Todd has two children. Effie A. lives at home. His eldest son, Ira G. Biehler, was for twenty years engaged in the service of the Ulster and Delaware Railroad Company, working his way up by his indefatigable energy and push to the position of agent of one of the most important stations on the road. His strict attention to business and courteous demeanor won him a host of friends. He had scarcely reached middle life when he was stricken down with an inflammatory disease which baffled the skill of the best medical advisers in this part of the country. He dies at his home in Arkville, aged thirty-seven years. Being a Mason, and at the time of his death, Master of the Margarettville Lodge, No. 389, he was buried with Masonic Rites, the funeral being one of the largest ever held here. His brothers are members of the same lodge.

A few years ago, Marion O. Biehler, who is now in the Far West went to South America. The following extract from a letter written by him to his father shows the journey to have been one of hardship and peril rather than of pleasure. It was dated Quibdo, Colombia, November 26, 1886, two months and four days after he left New York City. The writer then felt that, if he had known beforehand the dangers and hairbreadth escapes he was to meet with, not all the gold in South America would have tempted him to leave Arkville. He says: "We arrived at Aspinwall, October 1, were detained there four days, transferring our provisions, arms and baggage, and trying to get papers from the authorities to insure safe passage along the coast. They would not grant them, but by good luck we got along just as well without them. The first day after leaving Aspinwall our vessel was nearly swamped several times. But we had no desire to become food for fishes, and we worked heroically through the day, and at night landed at Porto Bello. The third day we succeeded in procuring a pilot who was perfectly acquainted with every mile of the coast. First day from there had good winds, then turned dead against us; have pulled four hours at a time, and not gained more than one mile. On the 19th we came to the mouth of the Atrato. This river rises and falls with fearful rapidity. Have known it, further up stream, to fall fifteen feet in one day, also to rise ten feet in one day...

"We crossed the Gulf of Darien to get men to pole us up the river. It would have taken eight men to pull against the current, but two natives can pole it. They have poles ten feet long, stand on forward end of boat, place the pole against a tree on the bank, and walk the length of the boat, pushing the boat forward. It was necessary to keep close to the bank, and pass under large branches that hang over the water. We would hear from a native, "Coolavery, coolavery!" and looking up, would behold a monstrous snake directly over our heads. They are hideous-looking monsters, and very deadly. We shot fifteen, and some of them were over ten feet in length. We were over a month in making the river, surrounded by dangers on every hand, and did not meet with a person who could understand a word of English. But I found some brethren of our noble fraternity--- two master Masons; and although neither of us could interpret a word the other said, I was as warmly welcomed as I could have been in my Native State. They insisted that my friend, J.D.Vermilya and I should accompany them to one of their homes for dinner. At Quibdo we were kindly received by Mr. Prindle's brother, who was watching for our arrival. We still have one week's journey before us, to reach the gold regions.

In politics, Mr. Biehler is a stanch Democrat, and takes an active interest in local affairs. He is an honored member of the Lutheran church, and has ever exemplified in his life what a true Christian should be. Upright in his dealings, he enjoys the respect of all that know him.


WILLIAM A. HULL is a native resident of Andes, Delaware County, N.Y., who has been closely identified with the local affairs of the town since his early manhood. His parents, Ira and Elizabeth Hull, dwelt on the old homestead which he now occupies. Ira's father was Ebenezer Hull, and his mother's maiden name was summers. They came from Connecticut and settle first on Hubble Hill, and afterwards on Trempers Kill. Having lived to a very advanced age, they died at the home of their son, Ira. The family consisted of two sons and three daughters--- Eri, Ira, Rebecca, Phebe, and Arluna--- all of whom are deceased.

Ira Hull was born on Hubble Hill, April 5, 1798, and received a common school education near his home. He married Elizabeth, daughter of William Ackerly, who resided on the Slade farm. Mr. Ackerly had the following family: William, Jonathan, Nicholas, Elizabeth, Laura, Polly, Susan, not any of who are now living. The father was an industrious farmer of high repute and a leader among the Baptist brethren of this vicinity, holding the meetings at his own house before the church was built. Ira, after having lived on his father's farm, bought the one now occupied by the family, consisting of three hundred acres and fine buildings. He was industrious and prosperous, and was father of five children, as follows: Alanson, who married Ann Felton, of Andes, and is a farmer, Henrietta, widow of Frank C. Reside, who lives at Union Grove; William A.; Stephen, deceased; Calvin, who married Josephine Bussy, and is a lawyer. In politics, Mr. Ira Hull was a Democrat. Mrs. Elizabeth Hull was a Baptist in her religious faith. She lived to be nearly eighty years of age.

William A Hull was born on the farm where he now resides, and received his education from the district school. In 1865, he married Fannie D. Hitt, daughter of John Hitt, a farmer of Downsville, who dies at the age of forty-four years, leaving his widow the care and responsibility of bringing up their family alone. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Hitt were: William, living in Downsville; Charles, a resident of Colchester; Fannie, wife of Mr. Hull; Maggie, widow of George Warren. Mrs. Hitt was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Hitt erected a hotel in Downsville, but at its completion sold it and engaged in carpentering.

William Hull first started a farm, bought of D. Palmateer, and of his brother, one hundred and sixty acres all together. This farm includes part of the picturesque sheet of water called Perch Lake, and here he has laid out delightful picnic grounds furnished with a cottage, tables, boats, and other conveniences that minister to the comfort and gratification of his guests. This is considered one of the finest places for fishing in Delaware County and here Mr. Hull accomodates large numbers of lovers of sport during the season.

Mr. and Mrs. Hull have reared two children: Sarah, who is the wife of Lee J. Frisbee, and has two children--- Willard and a daughter not yet named; Lillie, who is still at home. The farm is one of the best in the section, having upon it a comfortable house, built in 1871, and commodious barns, new in 1874. Mr. Hull keeps twenty-five Alderney cows of the finest stock, and yielding yearly a handsome profit. In politics Mr. Hull is a Democrat, and has been Excise Commissioner for many years. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Hull is much respected for his strict integrity, his high moral character, and his business ability.


CHARLES KNIGHT, a highly intelligent and influential citizen of Hancock, Delaware County, was born April 8, 1826. His father, John Knight, was born in 1780, in Philadelphia, and his grandfather, who was also John Knight, was born in the same city in 1750. The Knight family are of English descent, having probably come to this company with William Penn, and have long been prominently identified with the affairs of the Quaker city. The records of the family may be found on the books of Christ's (Episcopal) Church, on Second Street. Henry Knight, great-grandfather of Charles, was born on June 10,1726. He married Elizabeth Hardin, who was also of Philadelphia. And they raised a large family. Their son, John was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. And was at the battle of Monmouth, after which he lay on the field all night, contracting a disease from which he never recovered. He died in 1786, when but thirty-six year old. His wife was Mary Coran, a native of the Quaker City. And they had three children, two of whom, William and John Jr. grew to manhood.

William Knight was a sailing-master in the United States Navy. His commission is now in the possession of his nephew Charles, who is justly proud of such an uncle. It reads as follows:

"Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States, to all who shall see these presents, greeting: Know ye that, reposing special trust and confidence in the valor, fidelity, and abilities of William Knight, I do appoint him Sailing Master in the Navy of the United States. He is therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the duty of a Sailing Master by doing and performing all manner of things thereunto belonging. And I do strictly charge and require all officers, seamen and others under his command to be obedient to his orders as a Sailing Master and he is to observe and follow such orders and directions from time to time as he shall receive from me or the future President of the United States of America, or the superior officer set over him according to the rules and discipline of the Navy. This warrant to continue in force during the pleasure of the President of the United States for the time being To take rank from the second of October 1799. Given under my hand at the city of Washington, the twenty-seventh day of December 1802, and the twenty-seventh year of the independence of the United States.

                  (Signed)  THOMAS JEFFERSON.

   "By command of the President of the United States, 
                                              "R.Smith

    "Registered in the Navy Office,
                     "Samuel T. Anderson"