Taymouth Township

Taymouth History

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

In the following sketches many of the pioneers of Taymouth are noticed, and the story of their settlement related:

Thomas Bailey, sixth son of Nathaniel and Salina (Hunter) Bailey, was born in Elzevir tp., Hastings Co., Can., Sept. 13, 1853. He followed lumbering until 18 years of age, when he learned the blacksmith's trade and has worked at it ever since. He came to Taymouth tp. in July, 1879, and built a blacksmith shop on sec. 27, opposite the flouring mill. He was married in Drummond tp., Lanark Co., Can., Dec. 31, 1876, to Mary E., daughter of James and Margaret (Craig) Robinson, born Jan. 8, 1856. They have 3 children—John N., born in Lanark Co, Can., Nov. 12, 1876; James H., born April 5, 1878, and Thomas E., born Aug. 8, 1880. In politics Mr. Bailey is a Democrat, and himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

W. L. Baker, first son of William and Louisa (London) Baker, was born Oct. 16, 1819, and is of English ancestry. At the age of 12 he started to draw merchandise from Auburn to Weedsport, Cayuga Co., N. Y., and was engaged at this until 20 years of age. He then worked on a farm in the same county for Nathan H. Sayre six years. He was married at Victory, Cayuga Co., N. Y., Dec. 13, 1848, to Caroline E. Rider, born at Victory, Jan. 14, 1827; 7 children have been given them, 4 living—Dency E., born at Hannibal, Oswego Co., N. Y., Oct. 20, 1851, William J., born at Hannibal, June 7, 1853; Judson H., born at Victory, July 25, 1855; Carrie L., born at Pt. Byron, same county, Dec. 26, 1857; Joseph R., born at Murray, Orleans Co., July 1, 1860; George L., born at South Saginaw, Oct. 28, 1866, and Oscar J., born at South Saginaw, Jan. 14, 1869. Mr. Baker went to Deerfield, Livingston Co., Mich., in October, 1861, but was unable to do anything for three years on account of a lame leg. He then removed to South Saginaw, and engaged in running an engine in Flagler & York's salt works three years. He was subsequently employed in Swift & Lockwood's saw-mill for seven years. In the fall of 1875, he came to Taymouth tp., and purchased 85 acres of land on sec. 32. Mr. Baker is a Republican in politics, and has served his tp. as School Director two years.

Herbert Barrett, first son of Philip and Dolly (Elmer) Barrett, was born at Hinsdale, Cheshire Co., N. H., March 9, 1846. In the fall of 1866, he came to East Saginaw and teamed it for five years, and was subsequently engaged in the milk business for 10 years. In 1880 he came to Taymouth tp., and purchased 106 acres of land on sec. 22. He was married at Hinsdale, N. H., March 29, 1870, to Mary A. Barrett, daughter of Otis and Laura S. (Powers) Barrett, born at Hinsdale, Cheshire Co., N. H., March 2, 1845. They have 6 children—Maud, born Jan. 21, 1871; Dolly G., Sept. 16, 1873; Jesse, born in East Saginaw, May 8, 1875; Philip C., born June 1, 1877; Olive M.. born July 8, 1879; Nellie B., born in Taymouth tp., March 8, 1881. In politics Mr. B. is Republican, and also a member of the Freemasons Lodge, No. 303, Ancient Landmark F. & A. M.

Perley F. Becker, 3d son of Joseph H. and Catherine A. (Defoe) Becker, was born at Deerfield, Niagara Co., N. Y., Sept. 18, 1848. He attended school until 17 years of age at Gassport, Niagara Co., and Bridgeport, Saginaw Co., and then engaged in brick-making nine years. When quite young his parents moved to Bridgeport, and to Taymouth in 1855. In the spring of 1866 Perley purchased 40 acres of land on sec. 18. He subsequently purchased 80 acres adjoining. In the fall of 1875 he sold 40 acres and now owns 80 acres. He was married in Bridgeport, June 23, 1872, to Ella H. Tupper, daughter of Aleck Tupper, D. D., born at Clarkston, Oakland Co., Mich., Nov. 28, 1853. They have 4 children—Arthur O., born in Bridgeport, May 14, 1873. The remaining 3 were born in Taymouth tp.,—Carrie L., born Jan. 19, 1875; Josie E., born April 8, 1877, and Samuel, born Nov. 23, 1879. In politics Mr. Becker is a Republican, and has been Tp. Commissioner two years.

Joel Blair, jr., second son of Joel, sr., and Fanny (Henry) Blair, was born in Niagara Co., N. Y., Oct. 3, 1837. His father was born in Pennsylvania in 1805, of Irish ancestry. His mother was born at Dublin, Ireland, in 1805. He was engaged at farming until 15 years of age and has since been engaged in the pineries 27 years, 25 years of which he has been foreman. He rafted from Port Huron to Detroit 12 years. He came with his parents to St. Clair Co., Mich., in the fall of 1817. He was married at Port Huron, St. Clair Co., Mich., Aug. 14, 1862, to Rosa J., daughter of Newton and Sarah A. (Smith) Carpenter, born at Port Huron, March 20, 1844. They have 2 children—Nellie J,. born at Wales, St. Clair Co., Mich., Mar. 5, 1865, and Estella S., born at Saginaw City, Jan. 14, 1870. Mr. Blair came to Taymouth tp. in the spring of 1874, and in June of 1876 he purchased 80 acres of land on sec. 22, moving there in 1879. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. Blair belongs to the Masonic order, Saginaw Valley Lodge, No. 154, and Joppa Chapter No. 63, R. A. M.

William H. Bronson, farmer, sec. 12, was born in Pennsylvania in 1847. His parents, Levi and Huldah (Hayden) Bronson, natives of Connecticut, of English descent, reside with William H. on the farm. He was educated in the public schools of East Saginaw, and at the age of 15 years entered the Saginaw postoffice as clerk and afterward in Little's bank, and then in a store in N. Y. city as clerk, remaining as such for six years. Mr. Bronson owns 160 acres of land, is Republican in politics, and has been financially successful in life. He has been School Superintendent and Tp. Assessor, and in 1880 was U. S. census-taker. In 1868 he married Emma Newkirk, a native of New Jersey. Her father was High Sheriff of Herkimer Co., N., Y. for 14 years. They have 5 children, 3 daughters and 2 sons.

Thomas Cuthbertson, second son of Hugh and Jane (Wallace) Cuthbertson, was born at West Bloomfield, Oakland Co., Mich., April 17, 1833. His father was born in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, Scotland, Dec., 1799. His mother was born in Kilmarnock, in 1810. At the age of 15, he came to Bay City, Mich., and engaged in driving team for James Frazer. He also engaged as a sawyer 10 years. In the fall of 1860 he went to New Orleans, and to avoid being pressed into the Southern army he sailed to England in December of that year. The following April, he returned to New York, and at Troy, Rensselaer Co., N. Y., April 17, 1861, re-enlisted in Co. A, 2d Reg. N. Y. Vol. Inf., under Captain William Armitage, and served 25 months in the army of the Potomac. He was finally wounded and sent to Potomac Creek hospital, and was mustered out May 21, 1863. He then returned to Bay City and re-enlisted Jan. 1, 1864, in Co. D, First Mich. Cav., under Capt. Lusk. He was on detached service 17 months, and was discharged June 9, 1865. He then came to Taymouth, and purchased a house and one acre of land, and a life lease on four acres, situated on sec. 22. He was married at Bay City, Dec. 27, 1852, to Mrs. Alice Buckley, daughter of George Edgly. Mr. C. has been married three times, the second time in Calhoun Co., Mich., in 1855, to Hannorah Quinlan. They had 3 children, 2 of whom are still living—Edward James, born at Bay City, Oct. 1, 1856, and Ellen J., born at Bay City in 1858. He was married the third time in 1875 to Jane Raney, who was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, in 1819. In politics Mr. C. is a Republican.

James Dorward, jr., son or James, sr., and Mary (Reaich) Dorward, was born in Forfarshire, Scotland, Oct. 14, 1826. His parents were born in 1801. His first occupation was shoemaking, at which he was engaged 10 years. He came to the United States in the spring of 1846, and the following winter himself and brother purchased 80 acres of land opposite Bay City, which they cleared of stave timber and sold the land the following spring. In the fall of 1847 they came to Taymouth tp. and purchased 60 acres of land on the Flint river, from which they cleared the pine timber. They were engaged in lumbering for a number of years in Taymouth, Montrose and other tps., and finally Mr. D. settled in Taymouth tp. in the spring of 1864, purchasing 108 acres of land on sec. 8. He was married in Montrose tp., Genesee Co., Mich., Oct. 21, 1866, Margaret, daughter of William and Euphemia (Dean) Logan, born in Canada, Aug. 17, 1845. They have 4 children, all born in Taymouth tp.—Mary E., born Sept. 11, 1868; William J., born May 1, 1870, Charles A., born July 7, 1874; Eunice M., born Jan. 13, 1881. In politics Mr. D. is a Democrat, and himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

Scott M. Farwell, third son of Hiram and Margaret (Skinner) Farwell, was born in Fulton Co., Ohio, Sept. 2, 1848. His father was born Aug. 25, 1803, in Chautauqua Co., N. Y., of Irish ancestry His mother was born May 25, 1809, of Welsh ancestry. He was raised on a farm until 18 years of age, when he engaged in a woolen factory five years, four years of which he was boss weaver. He then engaged in a foundry six months as molder and turner, and subsequently went into a cabinet shop, where he remained two years. He came to Taymouth tp. in January, 1876, and purchased 40 acres of land on sec. 29. He also has three-fourths of an acre on sec. 33, on which he has a house and cabinet shop, in which he is engaged, and has all the business himself and one man can do. He was married at Hudson, Lenawee Co., Mich., July 3, 1871, to Mary, daughter of William and Samantha (Chase) Coulson, born at Seneca, Lenawee Co., Mich., Oct. 1, 1852. They have had 3 children, 2 living—John C., born at Seneca, Lenawee Co., Aug, 7, 1874, and Mary E., born in Taymouth tp., Nov. 25, 1878; Maggie was born at Seneca, Nov. 5, 1872, and died Sept. 2, 1873. In politics Mr. Farwell is a Republican.

Henry Fawcett, eldest son of James and Esther (Robinson), Fawcett, was born in County Sligo, Ireland, Dec. 12, 1831. His father and mother were born in Ireland in 1797. In August, 1852, he came to America with his parents and settled at Cohoes, N. Y. He came to Taymouth tp. three years later, and purchased 103 acres of land, 63 of which are situated on sec. 16, the remainder on sec. 9, adjoining. He now has 70 acres under cultivation. He was married in Taymouth, July 17, 1865, to Elizabeth, daughter of William and Margaret (Farr) Moore, born Jan. 29, 1848. Four children have been sent to them, 3 of whom are living, and all born in Taymouth tp.—Margaret, born Aug. 23, 1875; Henry, born July 5, 1877, and John, born Jan 27, 1881; William J. was born March 21, 1867 and died May 5, 1867. Mrs. Fawcett died Jan. 28, 1881. In politics Mr. Fawcett is a Democrat.

Gardner W. Foster, first son of Nathaniel and Mary (Moore) Foster, was born on the banks of the Tittabawassee river, three miles from Saginaw City, on what is called the "Vogt farm," March 7, 1831. He is considered by many to be the first white child born in Saginaw county. When five years of age, his father, a carpenter and joiner, and also a millwright, moved into Saginaw City, and worked at his trade five years, then removed to Bridgeport, and purchased 100 acres of land on sec. 21, one mile from where the present town of Bridgeport is situated. When 20 years of age, Gardner left the farm, and went on the lake s as a seaman four summers, and worked in the pineries during the winters. He then returned home and bought the homestead, which had in the meantime been increased to 115 acres. He also bought 80 acres adjoining, where he resided two years, and was married July 15, 1855, to Martha C., daughter of Stephen and Abbey (Sheldon) Lytle, born at Madrid, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., Sept. 20, 1837. They have 7 children—Charles G., born in Bridgeport, Mar. 3, 1859, the remaining six being born in Taymouth tp.—Edward L., born June 2, 1863, Katie A., born Dec. 26, 1866; Ella E., born Mar. 23, 1869; Guy F., born May 26, 1871; Hattie M., born Sept. 14, 1873, and Jesse G., born Aug. 2, 1876. Mr. Foster is a member of Masonic Order, Lodge No. 55, of Bridgeport. He came to Taymouth tp. in the summer of 1861, and himself and Lorenzo Hodgeman purchased 231 acres of land on sec. 6, of which he still owns 100 acres. He also purchased 171 acres adjoining, and 20 acres on sec. 21, Albee tp. He has 160 acres under cultivation. His farm is, situated on the Flint river.

Charles T. Garries, son of William and Julia A. (Schoville) Garries, was born at Naples, Ontario Co., N. Y., Feb. 9, 1842, and is of German and French ancestry. When three years of age, his parents moved to Macomb Co., Mich., near Mt. Clemens, and purchased a farm on which they resided four years. They then removed to St. Clair county, where Charles was married Nov. 1, 1862, to Sarah A., daughter of Henry and Ann (Rattle) Glasier, who was born in Ireland, Oct. 14, 1844. Of their 7 children 6 are living—William H., born at Lexington, Sanilac Co., Mich., Aug. 19, 1863; George E., born at St. Charles, Saginaw Co., Mich., Mar. 25, 1867; John H., born in Taymouth tp., Nov. 28, 1869; Rose A., born in St. Charles, Mar. 25, 1872; Mary E., born in St. Charles, May 3, 1874; and Arthur H., born at Montrose, Genesee Co., Mich., Feb. 3, 1881. Hattie C. was born in Montrose tp. Genesee Co., Mich., Oct. 27, 1879, and died Oct. 28 1880. In politics Mr. Garries is a Democrat, and himself and wife are members of the M. E. Church.

Lemuel Hall, fifth son of Hubbard and Lettis (Patridge) Hall, was born in Schoharie Co., N. Y., Mar. 14, 1834, of English and Spanish ancestry. He came to Oakland Co., Mich., when two years of age, where he remained until 21 years of age, when he went to Port Austin, on Lake Huron, and engaged in lumbering and working in sawmills until July, 1873, when he removed to Taymouth tp., and purchased one acre of land on sec. 33, and engaged in the hotel business four years. In 1880 he purchased 80 acres on sec. 23 Montrose tp., Genesee Co., and 20 acres in Taymouth tp., on sec. 21. He was married at Caseville, Huron Co., Mich., Dec. 10, 1867, to Melissa, daughter of William and Jane (Deforest) Weir, born in Canada, and died Nov. 5, 1868 Mr. Hall has been married twice, the second time at East Saginaw, July 10, 1873, to Fredrica Stephens, born in Switzerland, Nov. 26, 1833. In the spring of 1873, he opened a general store, and carries on a thriving business.

Andrew Haynes, second son of Van Rensselaer and Boxy A. (Keyes) Haynes, was born at Brighton, Ont., June 4, 1836, of German ancestry. He was married Mar. 31, 1858, at Brighton, Can., to Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph and Catherine Masters, born July 6, 1841. Of their 5 children 2 are living, both at Brighton, Can.,—William R., born Dec. 24, 1859, and George, born May 20, 1861. Mr. Haynes came to Taymouth tp. in the fall of 1876, and bought 80 acres of land on sec. 12. In politics he is a Republican. His wife is a member of the Methodist Church.

William Henry, third son of Alexander and Elizabeth (Boyd) Henry, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, Aug. 12, 1852. He came to Canada in 1872, with his brother Francis, and settled at Ottawa, where he remained until the fall of 1875, when he came to East Saginaw, and engaged in loading and unloading vessels. In 1874 he came to Taymouth tp., and himself and brother bought 80 acres of land on sec. 32, which they are speedily converting into a fertile and productive farm. His mother is living with him and keeping house for him. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Her husband died in County Antrim, Ireland. He was the son of Alexander Henry, a Presbyterian minister. The grandfather of Alexander Henry on the mother's side was also a Presbyterian minister.

Ernst Herpel, son of Philip and Julianna (Coch) Herpel, was born in Prussia, Jan. 10, 1827. His father was born in Prussia in 1802, and died in April, 1850. His mother was born in 1804. His father was engaged in the treasury department in the city of Ems, with a country residence two miles from the city. Ernst attended school in the city of Ems eight years, until he arrived at the age of 14, when be went as an apprentice to learn the upholstering trade, at which he was engaged seven years. He then entered the Prussian army as a Yagar, or sharpshooter, and rose to be First Lieutenant. He was wounded in both hands in war with Denmark. In the fall of 1857 he came to the United States, and resided in New York city three months, then came West and settled between Concord and Spring Arbor, Jackson Co., Mich., where be remained eight years. He then removed to East Saginaw and engaged in the upholstering business several years, and came to Taymouth tp. in the fall of 1868, and purchasing 180 acres of land on sec. 7, also 180 on sec. 1, Albee tp. He was married Dec. 1, 1852, to Kathrina, daughter of Philip and Barbara Miller, born in Lima, Baden, Oct. 22, 1826. They have no children of their own, but adopted a boy named John when quite small, who now resides in Albee tp. He was born in 1856. Mr. Herpel and wife are members of the Reformed Church, and he is a Republican. He is also a Knight Templar Mason, and attended the famous conclave at Chicago, Ill., 1880.

James Kerr, fourth son of Martin and Rosina (Gracy) Kerr, was born in Ayrshire, Scotland, May 16, 1854. In the fall of 1870 he went to London, Ont., Canada, and remained one year. He then removed to Michigan, and settled in Taymouth tp., where he purchased 70 acres of land on sec. 26. He was married Dec. 20, 1875, to Maggie, daughter of William and Agnes Reid, born April 9, 1860. They have 3 children—William R., born Jan. 1, 1877; Agnes M., born Oct. 9. 1878, and Rosana G., born Aug. 6, 1880. In politics Mr. K. is a Democrat, and himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

Andrew Leach, son of David and Ann (Durham) Leach, was born and reared on a farm in Wigtownshire, Scotland. He was married April 29, 1840, to Margaret, daughter of Joseph and Agnes (Nesbit) Logan, who was born March 7, 1817. They had 4 children born in Scotland—James, born Sept. 14, 1841; David, born Aug. 22, 1843, and died in Taymouth tp., April 8, 1864; Andrew, born March 8, 1845; Jane D., born May 10, 1847, and died July 28, 1854. He came to America in the fall of 1848, and settled in Rensselaer Co., N, Y., where their 5th child, Agnes, was born Oct. 31, 1849. After a residence of 18 months he removed to Detroit, Mich., in the spring of 1850. While there they had 3 children born—John, born Aug. 22, 1851, and died Sept. 26, 1852; Mary, born Feb. 22, 1853, and Margaret, born Oct. 10, 1854, who died. In the spring of 1856, he removed to sec. 30, Albee tp., which then formed a portion of Taymouth tp., and purchased 240 acres of land. He was the third settler in Albee tp. In the spring of 1862 he came to Taymouth tp. and bought 168 acres of land on sec. 8. Since coming to Taymouth tp. they have had 6 children born—Margaret and Joseph, born Oct. 10, 1854 (the latter died when an infant); Jane D., born Aug. 1, 1858; Joseph and John, born May 10, 1861. One child was stillborn. In politics Mr. Leach is a Republican. He has been Justice of the Peace four years, Tp. Treasurer one year, and Highway Commissioner one year. Mr. Leach and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

James Leach, eldest son of Andrew and Margaret (Logan) Leach, was born at Wigtownshire, Scotland, Sept. 14, 1842. His parents were born at the same place, father Sept. 9, 1819, and mother March 8, 1821. He came to America with his parents in July, 1847, and settled near Troy, N. Y. They removed to Detroit, Mich., in January, 1850. After a residence of six years he came to Taymouth tp. in April, 1856, with his parents, and settled on sec. 8. He was married Sept. 17, 1866, to Elizabeth, daughter of George and Mary Catherine (Reel) Foltz, born May 8, 1850. They have 5 children—David, born Dec. 5, 1867; George F., born April 23, 1869; Margaret, born Aug. 4, 1871; Jane, born July 22, 1873; and Andrew, born Feb. 26, 1881. In the spring of 1868 Mr. L. bought 80 acres of land, 50 on sec. 22 and 25 acres on sec. 21, 30 of which are improved. At present he is Tp. Clerk, and has held that office for eight years, also Highway Commissioner five years, and School Director 12 years. He is a Republican.

William McGregor was born in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, May 19, 1839. His father, Archibald McGregor, was born in November, 1790. His mother, Agnes (Patterson) McGregor, was born Aug. 2, 1792. William attended school until he arrived at the age of 17, when he came to America and settled in Detroit, Mich. He went to work on a farm, and in the fall of 1857 purchased 80 acres of land on sec. 35, this tp., but did not move here until the spring of 1866. At Saginaw City, Aug. 13, 1862, he enlisted in Co. E, 23d Reg. Mich. Vol. Inf., under Capt. Henry C. Neville, who died before the regiment left the city. He served three years in the army of the Cumberland under Gen. Sherman, and was discharged at Detroit, July 27, 1865. He then came to Taymouth tp. He was married at Flushing, Genesee Co., Mich., Dec. 5, 1865, to Isabelle, daughter of Alexander and Margery (McDonald ) Miller. Mrs. McGregor was born at Rochester, N. Y., July 28, 1841. They have 5 children, all natives of Taymouth tp.—Alexander, born Oct. 13, 1866; William P., born Aug. 6, 1868; Margery, born April 2, 1870; James, born Jan. 19, 1872, and Archibald, born Feb. 17, 1875. Mr. McGregor was Township Commissioner six years, and Treasurer four years. In politics he is a Democrat and also a member of I. O. O. F. and P. of H. societies.

John Malone, first son of Owen and Ann (Fagles) Malone, was born at Williamsport, Pa., May 3, 1814. His parents removed to Big Muncy, Pa., where he remained until 19 years of age, when he came to Tecumseh, Lenawee Co., Mich., in 1833 and engaged with Gen. Brown, who then ran a stage between Detroit and Chicago. He came to Taymouth in the fall of 1836, and bought 52 acres of land on sec. 6, since which time he has purchased 61 acres adjoining. Mr. Malone is the oldest living settler on the Flint, river, in Taymouth tp. When he first came to Taymouth provisions were so scarce and far away it was difficult to procure them; the only meat himself and family had for several years was venison. Mr. Malone was married at Saginaw City, Aug. 21, 1836, to Ann, daughter of James and Ellen (Garrett) McCormick, born near Albany, N. Y., in 1839. They have 7 children, all of whom were born in Taymouth tp.—Julia, born July 24, 1838; Louisa, born Sept. 2, 1840; Ellen, born Nov. 22, 1842; Andrew, born April 28, 1857; Charles, born July 4, 1859; Archibald born Aug. 16, 1861, and John, born March 10, 1866. Mr. Malone is a prominent farmer, and has taken quite an interest in the welfare of the tp. He has been Tp. Treasurer five or six years, Commissioner and Justice of the Peace several years. In politics he is Democratic.

Henry McFarland, son of James and Ann (Steward) McFarland, was born in Perthshire, Scotland, April 12, 1833. His father is a native of Inverness, Scotland. At the age of 23, Henry came to America and settled in Taymouth tp., resided here two years, and then removed to Hamilton, Canada West, where he remained four years. He then located at Saginaw City, and engaged in lumbering. He went to Montrose, Genesee Co., Mich., in the spring of 1871, and purchased 94 acres of land on sec. 3, 45 of which are under cultivation. He was married Oct. 5, 1871, to Eliza, daughter of Thomas and Mary (Foley) McNally. His wife belongs to the Church of England. He has been extensively engaged in lumbering for 14 years.

Francis W. McNalley, son of Francis and Eliza (Waterson) McNalley, was born in Downshire, Ireland, May 4, 1838. His father was born on the day the battle of Waterloo was fought, and died Aug. 25, 1880. He attended school until 12 years of age; then went into his father's shop and engaged in making horse-shoe nails. He came to this country when six years of age, with his mother; his father came over the year previous. They settled at Cincinnati, O., where he resided until April 18, 1861, when he enlisted in Co. C, 5th Reg. O. Vol. Inf., under Captain Henry E. Symes, and served as private one year, then was promoted to hospital steward, which position he filled for several months, and was subsequently sent to Washington with Gen. Shield's wounded. He was then appointed as steward in the regular army, and continued in that capacity until July 22, 1865, when he was discharged, having served four years and three months. He returned to Hamilton Co., O., and engaged in farming. In the winter of 1866, he came to Taymouth tp., and purchased 240 acres of land on sec. 23, which he afterward sold; in 1867 he built a house and started a store on sec. 17, and carried on quite an extensive business for several years. He now owns a good farm of 165 13-100 acres on sec. 17, where he resides. He was married near North Bend, O., Oct. 25,1865, to Harriet, daughter of Josiah R. and Harriet N. (Plummer) Hunt, born Jan. 25, 1841. They have 7 children, born in Taymouth tp.—John, born Nov. 15, 1866; Francis W., born Nov. 10, 1868; Josiah R., born Aug. 23, 1870; Matthew, born Mar. 29, 1873; Mary J., born Nov. 8, 1875, and Harriet E., born Sept. 11, 1877. Mr. McNalley has been Supervisor three terms successively, Postmaster seven years, Justice of the Peace nearly eight years, besides filling various other offices. In politics he is Republican.

David McNalley, second son of Francis and Elizabeth (Waterson) McNalley, was born in Cincinnati, O., Oct. 3, 1844. He attended school until 14 years of age, and then went to work in his father's shop making horse-shoe nails until 20 years of age. On Feb. 14, 1865, he enlisted in Co. F, 5th Ohio Vol. Inf., 20th Army Corps, under Sherman. He was discharged Aug. 4, 1865, and returned to the home of his parents who had moved 16 miles from Cincinnati in the country, In the fall of 1866 he came to Taymouth tp. with his parents, where they purchased 165 acres of land on the Flint river, known as the "old Hayden farm," the oldest farm in the tp. His father died Aug. 25,1880. He was, married in Taymouth tp., Mar. 20, 1872, to Mary E. Diffin, daughter of John and Helen (Ross) Diffin, born in Taymouth Dec. 22,1855. They have 5 children, born in Taymouth tp.,—Elizabeth, born July 23, 1873; David, born Dec. 27, 1874; Francis L., born Dec. 11, 1876; John, born June 25, 1879; and Helen, born Mar. 14, 1881. Mr. McN. has been Tp. Clerk one year, Justice four years, School Director six years, and School Inspector two years. He is at present Tp. Treasurer, and also Secretary of the Flint River Valley Agricultural Society. In politics he is Republican. Mr. McNalley was a member of the Cincinnati Home Guards at the time Kirby Smith and Gen. Bragg made their raid. The Home Guards from Cincinnati crossed the river and held the enemy in check until they finally retreated.

Frank McNally, fifth son of Thomas and Mary Ann (Foley) McNally, was born in County Down, Ireland, Aug. 15, 1847, and came with his parents to America in 1855. His first occupation was in the pineries, where he went when 15 years of age, and remained until 30 years of age, chiefly in the Saginaw Valley. In the spring of 1857 he came with his parents to Taymouth tp., and settled on sec. 33. He now owns 45 acres of land on sec. 27, also 75 acres in Montrose tp., Genesee Co., 75 of which are now under cultivation. He was married in Richland Co., O., Feb. 28, 1878, to Louisa, daughter of Ferdinand and Margaret (Zechmeister) Brucker, born in Bridgeport tp., Saginaw Co., Oct. 30, 1856. They had 1 child—William H., born in Taymouth tp., Jan. 27, 1879, and died April 8, 1881. Mr. M. has been Tp. Treasurer two years, and is a member of the P. of H. In politics he is a Democrat. His wife is a member of the Episcopal Church.

James W. Morse, son of Nathaniel and Sarah A. (Dodge) Morse, was born at Massena, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., Jan. 1, 1837. His father was born at Sullivan, Cheshire Co., N. H., Feb. 25, 1814, of English ancestry. His mother was born Aug. 18, 1820, at Dunnispatten, Can. He was reared on a farm, and at the age of 19, engaged in lumbering on the Flint river. He came to Taymouth tp. in the fall of 1850, with his parents, since which time his father died, and his mother, who is still living on sec. 27, is one of the earliest settlers in the county. Mr. Morse now owns 200 acres of land in Taymouth tp., part of which is on sec. 27, the remainder on sec. 22; also 160 acres in Montrose, Genesee Co., of which about 90 acres are under cultivation. Mr. Morse was married at Montrose, Genesee Co., Mich., July 25, 1858, to Sarah A., daughter of Reuben and Melissa Christopher, who was born Sept. 9, 1844. Of their 2 children, 1 is living, Reuben H., born Aug. 28, 1861; Edward A. was born July 8, 1857, and died in December, 1873. Mrs. Morse died December, 1862, and he was again married at Montrose, Genesee Co., Mar. 19, 1863, to Zilpha T., daughter of Lyman S. and Zilpha Kibby, who was born in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., Oct. 16, 1845. They have 2 children,—Sarah A., born at Blumfield, Saginaw Co., Mich., Nov. 4, 1864, and Zilpha M., born in Taymouth tp., Mar. 31, 1880. Mr. Morse is a Greenbacker and a member of the Patrons of Husbandry Lodge, No. 326, in Taymouth tp. He has been Justice of the Peace seven years, and Drain Commissioner six years. Mr. Morse was the Greenback candidate for Representative in the State Legislature, in the fall of 1878. He is an enterprising man, and has 27 acres of his land laid out in town lots, on which is situated his own house and barns, a flouring mill, a general store, blacksmith shop, dwelling-house, also a new saw-mill, which was completed in July, 1881.

Henry Munson, son of Daniel and Fanny (Tolse) Munson, was born at Franklin, Delaware Co., N. Y., June 16, 1818, and is of Irish ancestry. His father owned a blacksmith shop, and in this he worked winters, and learned the trade. He left home when 18 years of age, and went to Ft. Defiance, O., and engaged in boating and working on a farm for two years. He then removed to Saginaw City, and remained two years, when he came to Taymouth tp. in the fall of 1861, and purchased 80 acres of land on sec. 5. He now owns 87 acres. He was married in Bridgeport, June 1, 1889, to Elizabeth, daughter of Nathaniel and Mary Foster, born May 7, 1820. Of their 11 children, 9 are living—Mary E., born at Richfield, Lapeer Co., Mich., July 30, 1841; Frances J., born in Bridgeport, Aug. 7, 1845; Gardner N., born in Bridgeport, July 26, 1847; Thomas B., born in Bridgeport, July 27, 1849; Sarah E., born Nov. 17, 1851; Alice A., born Dec. 11, 1853; Charles H., born Jan. 27, 1855; Henrietta E., born Feb. 8, 1858, and Orin, born Aug. 7, 1861. James H. was born Feb. 29, 1840, died March 10, 1881, and Ransom W. was born Sept. 7,1843, and died April 17, 1853. In politics Mr. Munson is a Democrat.

John Owens, son of Patrick and Elizabeth (Burke) Owens, was born in Genesee, Potter Co., Pa., May 13. 1843. When eight years of age, he removed to Allegany Co., N. Y. He was married in Livingston Co., N. Y., June 6, 1865, to Ann, daughter of James and Catherine (Calaher) Ryan, who was born July 27, 1844. Of their 8 children, 7 are living, 5 born in Saginaw City and 3 in Taymouth tp.—James, born Feb. 6, 1866; Elizabeth, born April 28, 1867; Bernard, born Mar. 6, 1869: Mary, born Aug. 23, 1872; William, born May 10, 1874; Kate, born Dec. 25, 1875, and Ellen, born May 27, 1878. John was born Dec. 29, 1871, and died June 6, 1879. Mr. Owens came to Saginaw City in the fall of 1865, and after a residence of eight years removed to Taymouth tp. and purchased 40 acres of land in sec. 1. In politics he is a Democrat. All the family are members of the Catholic Church.

Elijah Pelcher is the eldest son of Albert Pelcher, and was born in Taymouth tp. in 1833. By occupation he is a farmer. He owns 20 acres of land—10 acres situated on sec. 28, and 10 on 21. He was married in Taymouth tp. to Jane Hickey, daughter of Daniel Hickey. They have 6 children—Jonas, Moses, Simon, Susan, Peter and George. Mr. and Mrs. Pelcher are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Pelcher is a descendant of the original owners of the soil; he is of Indian and French descent, and is the chief of the band of Chippewa Indians that are located in Taymouth tp. His Indian name is "Won-kesick," and his wife's "Swa-che-wan-no-qua."

Henry O. Price, fourth son of Henry and Parmelia (Jefferds) Price, was born in Macomb Co., Mich., April 7, 1832. He was raised on a farm, and educated in the common schools of Macomb and Lapeer counties. He was married May 11, 1856, to Sarah, daughter of George W. and Mary J. (Miller) Ellison, born April 26, 1838. They have had 9 children, 8 still living, 2 born in Lapeer Co., Mich., 1 in Oakland Co., Mich., and 4 in this county—Charles H, born Mar. 7, 1857; Lucelia J., born Aug. 23, 1858; Pliny O., born Feb. 7, 1860; Pearl A., born Sept. 22, 1862; Frank V., born May 29, 1865; Mary H., born Mar. 25, 1870; Estella A., born May 29, 1871, and Jennie E., born Aug. 9, 1878. Kenneth E. was born in Taymouth tp., April 27, 1874, and died July 27, 1876. Mr. Price came to Taymouth tp. in 1863, and bought 95 acres of land on sec. 13, two-thirds of which are under cultivation. In politics he is a Republican. Mrs. Price is a member of the Baptist Church.

John Raasch, first son of Frank and Catherine (Craig) Raasch, was born in Prussia, Sept. 8, 1834. In the fall of 1867 he came to the United States, and settled in Allegheny Co., Pa., where he remained four months, then removed to Chicago, where he resided three years. He then located near Detroit, Mich., where he remained a short time, and finally settled in Taymouth tp., in the fall of 1873. He was married in Bridgeport tp., Saginaw Co., to Mrs. Rosanna Diffin, daughter of John and Mary Mesner, born in Wurtemberg, Ger., April 29, 1839. She had 4 children by her first husband, all natives of Taymouth tp.—John E., born Sept. 19, 1862: Joseph B., born Sept. 27, 1866; Mary, born March 15, 1870, and Rosa, born Oct. 20, 1874.

John Raasch and his wife reside on sec. 21, where Mrs. Raasch owns 92 acres of land.

William Reid, jr., third son of William, sr., and Margaret (Eddy) Reid, was born in Lanarkshire, Scotland, in September, 1813. He was born and raised on a farm, and at the age of 10 years began life for himself. He worked for farmers a few years, and then went on the railroad and learned to be an engineer. He was engaged at this for 25 or 30 years; he ran the first engine on the west end of the Great Western R. R. He came to the United States in the spring of 1851, and to Taymouth tp. in the spring of 1856. He bought 320 acres of land on sec. 26, and now owns 110 acres, 50 of which are under cultivation. He was married in Detroit, April 5, 1857, to Mrs. Agnes McLachlan, daughter of Archibald and Agnes (Patterson) McGregor, and born Dec. 31, 1822, and a descendant of the ancient family of McGregors and Campbells. They have 3 children, all born in Taymouth tp.—John, born Mar. 27, 1858; Maggie E., born April 9, 1860, and William A., born Sept. 5, 1863. In politics Mr. Reid is a Republican, and also a member of the P. of H. Himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

James Robertson, jr., second son of James. sr., and Margaret (Steward) Robertson, was born at Perth, Perthshire, Scotland, in March, 1827. He worked in the coal and limestone mines about 25 years. He came to the United States in June, 1871, and settled in Taymouth tp., and five years later purchased 40 acres of land on sec. 33. He was married at Perth, May 10, 1852, to Christina, daughter of Dugald and Janette (Cameron) McDonald, born April 25, 1833. They have 1 child—Margaret, born in Forfarshire, Scotland, Nov. 23, 1853. Mr. Robertson and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

Arthur Ross, farmer, sec. 21, was born at Aberdeen, Scotland, Jan. 8, 1839. He is a son of David D. and Margaret (Alexander) Ross; father born in 1805, and mother in 1811. David D. Ross came to the United States in 1813, and his family followed him in 1845. He located in Taymouth tp., on what was known as the "old Indian fields," and which had been previously leased from the red men by James McCormick. This piece of land comprised 30 acres, and was almost entirely free from stumps. Mr. Ross built a large log cabin, 20x30 feet in size, near the edge of the clearing, and covered it with shingles brought down the river from Flushing, 16 miles distant. Mr. McCormick had planted a grove of a thousand mulberry trees, intending to start a silk factory, and there were also five apple-trees on the place, some of which were three feet in diameter, and of such an age that the oldest Indian could not remember when they were smaller. There was a plum orchard on the river bank. The mulberry grove remains yet, but the trees are dying very rapidly. Arthur Ross was Tp. Clerk two years. and is serving his tenth year as Supervisor. He was also School Inspector two years. He is a Democrat; a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the P. of H. He was married Dec. 4, 1864, to Lillie, daughter of Peter and Janet (McDonald) Angus, who was born at Creiff, Perthshire, Scotland, Oct. 31, 1842. They have 5 children—Jane, born Mar. 19, 1865; David D., born Oct. 11, 1867; Peter F., born April 15, 1869; Margaret A., born May 31, 1871, and Lillie B., born May 20, 1875. Mrs. Ross is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Thomas Salkeld, jr., second son of Thomas, sr., and Mary (Smith) Salkeld, was born in England, County Cumberland, November, 1822. He came to the United States in the summer of 1852, and settled at East Saginaw, where he was engaged in a variety of pursuits for 20 years. While there, he was married, Oct. 24, 1867, to Catherine Johnston, who died Feb. 27, 1873. Two children have been given them—Thomas, born in Taymouth tp., Feb. 27, 1869; Mary A., born Nov. 28, 1872, and died May 27, 1873., Mr. Salkeld came to Taymouth tp. in the fall of 1867, and purchased 50 acres of land on sec. 2. In politics he is a Republican. His wife was a member of the Baptist Church.

Horace K. Sloan, first son of Asa and Charlotte (Atwood) Sloan, was born, at Penfield, Monroe Co., N. Y., ten miles east of Rochester, Jan. 26, 1824. His father was born near Providence, R. I., Sept. 20, 1791. His mother was born near the same place, Aug. 23, 1801. Horace lived on a farm until 21 years of age, when he learned the shoemaking trade, at which he worked two years, after which he worked at the harness trade four years. Since this time he has been engaged in farming. At the age of 14 he came to Plymouth, Wayne Co., Mich., where he resided until the fall of 1853, when he came to Taymouth tp., and engaged in lumbering and farming. He was married May 27, 1855, to Julia A., daughter of John and Ann (McCormick) Malone, born July 24, 1837, at Flint, Genesee Co., Mich. Of their 4 children 3 are living—Eva L., born in Taymouth tp., April 14, 1856; Addie E., born Dec. 20, 1863, and Horace E., born Nov. 19, 1875. Harry M., was born Nov. 20, 1859, and died Feb. 26, 1869. Mr. Sloan came to Albee tp. in the winter of 1857, and purchased 40 acres of land on sec. 14, on which he resided until August, 1869, when he purchased 40 acres on sec. 12, on which he now resides. In politics Mr. Sloan is a Republican. He has held various tp. offices in Albee tp., among which is Supervisor some eight terms, Justice of the Peace, Highway Commissioner, etc. Mrs. Sloan is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

James Smith, first son of David and Elizabeth (Wilson) Smith, was born in Lanarkshire, Scotland, April 20, 1848. When 18 years of age he left home and engaged in brick-making, at which he worked seven summers and lumbered during the winters. When four years of age his parents came to America, and settled at Warren, Ashtabula Co., Ohio. Two years later they removed to Saginaw county. In the spring of 1855 he came with his parents to Taymouth tp., and in 1873 purchased 42 acres of land on sec. 36. He was married in East Saginaw, May 6, 1878, to Jane, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Wood) McIntosh, born Oct. 2, 1858. They have 2 children, both born in Taymouth tp.—John M., born April 25, 1879, and David A., born Feb. 11, 1881. He is a Democrat, and was Moderator of the tp., one year. Mr. Smith and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

John Smith, second son of William and Elizabeth (Brown) Smith, was born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, May 26, 1818. When 18 years of age he began an apprenticeship of three years at the carpenter and millwright's trade. After serving nine months of his time, he was married Feb. 13, 1837, to Elizabeth, daughter of Alexander and Ellen (McGregor) Gilmore, born Nov. 25, 1816. He finished his term of apprenticeship after being married. They have 9 children, all natives of Scotland—William, born July 14, 1837, John M. D., April 25, 1840; Mary, Aug. 17, 1845; George, Dec. 14, 1846; Robert, Dec. 22,1848; Elizabeth, Dec. 24, 1850; Ellen, Feb. 10, 1852; Graham, Feb. 6, 1854, and Christina, Jan. 18, 1857. Robano was born Nov. 25, 1843, and died Oct. 22, 1849. Mr. Smith is a Republican and has been Justice of the Peace 18 months and Chairman of the School Board three years. Himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, where he has been Sunday School Superintendent seven years. He came to Taymouth tp. in the summer of 1866, and in 1868 he purchased 81 acres of land on sec. 16. He is a natural mechanic and a man of great genius. He is a blacksmith and marble cutter, though he never served all apprenticeship at either. He now has a marble yard and blacksmith shop on his farm.

James Stephens, jr., only son of James, sr., and Margaret (Miller) Stephens, was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, Aug. 20, 1824. When four years of age he came to Canada with his parents, and at the age of 19 learned the carpenter's trade, which he has worked at since. He was married March 1, 1857, to Olive, daughter of Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Chatman) Worden, born in Holton Co., Can. Of their 16 children 8 are living, 5 born in Canada and 11 in Taymouth tp.—Harriet, born September, 1853; James, July 20, 1855; Jeremiah, July 15, 1857; George, June 29, 1859; William, June 29, 1859, and died when two weeks old; Robert, Jan. 13, 1862, and died July 21, 1876; Olive, April 4. 1864; John, June 30, 1866; Elizabeth, Sept. 2, 1868; Rebecca, May 11, 1870, and died in four weeks; Matilda, Oct. 16, 1872, and Joel, Jan. 13, 1877. The remaining ones died young and were not named. Mr. S. went to Oakland Co., Mich, in the spring of 1860, and removed to Taymouth tp. in the fall of the same year. He purchased 80 acres of land on sec. 3, and now owns 40 acres. He is a member of the I. O. G. T., and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Church. In politics he is a Republican.

Charles Stone, son of Charles and Mary (Brennan) Stone, was born in Middleburg, Bohemia, Jan. 12, 1842. He came to Canada, with his parents when 10 years of age, and remained there 14 years. In the spring of 1866 he went to Saginaw City, and after residing there a short time he removed to Taymouth tp., and purchased 40 acres of land on sec. 1. He was married at Saginaw City, July 7, 1867, to Antonio, daughter of Martens and Catherine Herbec. Of their 8 children 7 are living, all natives of Taymouth tp.—Victoria, born June 10, 1867; Mary, Aug. 15, 1868; Rosie, Jan. 12, 1871; Sylvania, Nov. 22, 1873; Ferdinand C., Jan. 19, 1875; Renaldeno M., born Feb. 12, 1877, and Evan G., May 25, 1879. Milly was born Jan. 8, 1869, and died when eight months old. Mr. Stone is a Democrat, and a member of the Lutheran Church. His wife is a member of the Roman Catholic Church.

William A. Stuart, second son of Asaph and Jane Stuart, was born in County Monaghan, Ireland, Feb. 12, 1817. When 15 years of age his parents came to Canada, where he worked on a farm five years. His father being a carpenter, he learned that trade, and has been engaged at it since. He was married at Cobourg, Newcastle Co., Canada, April 21, 1841, to Margaret, daughter of James and Mary (McKeever) Crawford, born in County Monaghan, Ireland, in 1822. Four children were born to bless this union, all natives of Canada—Jane, born April 18, 1842; James, born May 24, 1843; Letitia, born April 10, 1845, and Hugh, born Nov. 10, 1847. Mrs. Stuart died, and he was again married July 21, 1859, to Frances Courtney. Two children were given them, both natives of Middlesex Co., Canada—Margaret, born April 22, 1860, and Charlotte, born Oct. 18, 1862. His second wife departed this life April 4, 1864, and for his third wife he chose Julia Sharp, to whom he was united in the bonds of matrimony. He came to Taymouth tp. in 1865, and 10 years later purchased 10 acres of land on sec. 21. He is a Republican, and a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Franklin W. Thayer, third son of Darius and Diadama (Jencks) Thayer, was born at Groveland, Oakland Co., Mich., Aug. 4, 1847. His father was born Aug. 13, 1808, of English ancestry. He belongs to one of the oldest families of America, his forefathers having come over with the Pilgrims. His father still lives at Groveland, Oakland Co., where Franklin resided until 1879, when he removed to Taymouth tp., and purchased 80 acres of land on sec. 19. He was married at Groveland, Nov. 2, 1873, to Lurana, daughter of Chauncey and Jane (Hallock) Crosby, born Aug. 26, 1854, in Groveland. They have 2 children—Eli F., born June 30, 1877, and Myrtle L., born Aug. 17, 1879. Mr. Thayer enlisted at Groveland, March 7, 1861, in Co. H, 2d Reg. Mich. Vol. Inf., in the army of the Potomac, where he served 17 months. He was wounded June 17, 1864, and was sent to Washington, where he lay one month, and was removed to Lincoln hospital, and afterward to Satterlee hospital, Philadelphia, where he remained two and one-half months, received a furlough to come home to vote at Lincoln's re-election, returned and joined his regiment at Petersburg. His company were among the first to plant the colors on the custom-house in Petersburg after the evacuation. He was discharged July 28, 1865. Mr. Thayer is a Republican in politics. His wife belongs to the Free-Will Baptist Church.

Abram Young, seventh son of John A. and Susan (Nix) Young, was born in Prince Edward Co., Can., Aug. 10, 1853, and is of German parentage. He was reared on a farm, and received his education in the common schools of Prince Edward county. In the fall of 1876, he came to Taymouth tp., and purchased 80 acres of land on sec. 13, 26 of which are improved. He was married Mar. 25, 1874, to Lucelia, daughter of Henry O. and Jane (Allison) Price, who was born Aug. 23, 1858. They had 1 child—Eugene, who was born in Taymouth tp., July 16, 1879, and died Dec. 7, 1879. In politics Mr. Young is a Republican, and also a member of the 1. O. G. T. lodge.

Taymouth History

BACK TO LIST OF TOWNSHIP HISTORY 1881

Source: History of Saginaw County Michigan, By Michael A. Leeson, Damon Clarke, Published 1881 Chas. C. Chapman & Co., Chicago pages 917-937.

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