Brief Biographies of the Thompsons and Their Relatives
Joel Thompson, Abel's son wrote an obituary for his father which appeared in the Erie Gazette.
Departed this life on the evening of the 3rd day of July, 1840 at his home in Union, Erie Co., Pa. He was in the 84th year of his age. He was a native of the State of New Jersey, from which he removed his family into Pennsylvania, where he lived until his death. Father Thompson took part in the Revolutionary Struggle and lived long to enjoy the blessing of that glorious liberty and independence so gloriously achieved by his contemporaries image and arms for themselves and posterity of which he has left a numerous member to mourn his death even down to the 4th generation. He left ten children, 80 grandchildren, 72 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren for a total of 165 descendants at this time.
The Erie Gazette July 30, 1840, page 3
Departed this life on the evening of the 3rd instant, at his residence in Union Township, in the 84th year of his age, Mr.Abel Thompson; he was a native of New Jersey, where he was left an orphan child; and where he married his first wife, also an orphan; he removed his family in the year 1790 to Fayette County, Pa., where he resided till 1802; when here moved to Union, where he continued to reside on the same farm, until his decease. He had 8 children by his first wife, 6 of whom have survived him; and 2 by his second wife, one of whom survives with his widowed mother, to mourn theirl ives. Father Thompson has had 80 grandchildren, 42 greatgrand children, and three great great grandchildren ‑ the aggregate number of direct descendants, 165, from these two orphan children who now lie side by side in the family burying ground on his late residence. Father Thompson took part in the revolutionary struggle, and lived long to enjoy the blessings of liberty and independence so gloriously achieved by the contemporaries of his age and arms; and had he survived a few hours longer he would have seen the light of the anniversary of our glorious independence of 1840. But we trust he has gone to celebrate the joys of that glorious victory achieved by the captain of our Salvation.
CALEB THOMPSON (Abel #1's Son)
Died October 15, 1863, Caleb Thompson of Union, aged 74 years. Mr. Thompson was one of the earlier settlers of this county having come to it in the year 1802, along with his father, and living here ever since and of course experiencing all the inconveniences and hardships incident to the early settlement of the county. He was always known as a man of integrity and a great deal of character, and his name has been identified with all the public transactions of the township for many years. In his death the public has sustained a loss, and he leaves a numerous body of friends to mourn his departure.
( Erie Gazette, December 10, 1863. (Cheney Records. **The Cheney Records can be found in the Erie County Historical Society in Erie, Pennsylvania)
ROBERT H. THOMPSON
The news of the death of Robert H. Thompson reached Union City in June 1910. Robert died at his home in Brooklyn, New York, in the third week of June 1910 after a brief illness. He had just returned from a trip abroad, having been married for the second time a few months before. He and his wife were on their honeymoon voyage just a few short weeks ago. Mr. Thompson was about seventy years old, and a former Union City native. He was born on the Bartholme farm a mile west of town, and when a young man went to New York . While living in Brooklyn he accumulated a fortune estimated at over a million dollars, the bulk of which he left his new wife. Besides his widow, one son survives him. Robert H. Thompson was an uncle of Union City citizen, Charles W. Hayes. (Union City Times June 30, 1910
MRS. KATHERINE THOMPSON HAYES
Katherine Thompson Hayes was the oldest child of Robert and Catherine Thompson and was born in County Fermanagh, Ireland. They came to America in 1840, when Katherine was six and settled on a farm west of Union City, now known as the Bartholme farm. For a short time Katherine taught school, then she went to Waterford and learned dress making and soon made that her business. She married S.M. Hayes in 1859 and they had nine children. She was a sister of Robert Thompson .
(Union City Times, June 18, 1908)
MRS. ELIZABETH THOMPSON (Joel, Abel #1's sons' third wife)
Mrs. Elizabeth Thompson died in Utica, Venango County, on December 28, 1882. She was 82 years and 8 days. Elizabeth Wallace was born in 1800 and in November 1828 she married Thomas L. Wilson of Butler County who died on October 5 1841. She remained a widow until May 1846 when she married William Mulholland who lived until December 26, 1856. On November 11, 1863, she married Joel Thompson who lived until August 21, 1868. Again, Elizabeth was left a widow. Her life therefore was one of sorrow all through, but she bore it with Christian fortitude and died in full faith of her Redeemer. At age 16 she joined the Methodist Episcopal Church and during all the years of her life never regretted the move she had made. She was kind hearted and generous to a fault, and all who knew her will regret her death.
(Union City Times December 1882)
CHARLES C. THOMPSON
Charles C. Thompson was born in Union City on December 14, 1833. He was a carpenter. He married Amanda Burroughs. Caleb Thompson was his grandfather, and Abel #1 his great grandfather.
MRS. CHARLES C. THOMPSON (Amanda Susanna Burroughs)
Mrs. Charles C. Thompson died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Nellie Thomas on East High Street in Union City at an early hour last Saturday morning. For the past six years her health has gradually failed, despite all that could be done for her in the way of medical or kindly care. Two weeks ago today she was taken much worse and since that time until her death, scarcely realized anything that was going on about her. Much of the time she had been a great sufferer, but bore it all with a Christian fortitude. Amanda Susanna Burroughs was born in Shrewsbury, Rutland County, Vermont, on June 3, 1834. Her parents arrived in Beaverdam on October 20, 1843. On February 18, 1844, they came to Union where they settled. On December 25, 1854, at the home of her sister, Mrs.William Putnam, Amanda married Charles C. Thompson, with Moses Smiley, Esq. performing the ceremony. The Thompsons had seven children, three of whom are now living. Mrs. Nellie Thomas and W.H. Thompson live in Union City and C. A.Thompson lives in Brocton, New York. Three sisters survive her. They are Mrs. William Putnam and Mrs. J.L. Spaulding of Union City, and Mrs. Helen A. King of Jamestown, New York. One brother, H.E. Burroughs of Union City also survives. Mrs. Thompson was a woman who was loved by all who knew her. She was devoted to her husband and children, their comfort and happiness being always uppermost in her mind. She was a member of the Methodist Church of Union City and died in full faith of a future reward. Funeral services were held from the home of Mrs. Nellie Thomas of Union City at 2:30 in afternoon. Her pastor, Reverend S.M. Sartwell officiated and she was buried in Evergreen Cemetery.
William H. Thompson was their son. He was born in 1850 and died in 1924 and is buried in Evergeen. Charles Alanson Thompson, another son, was born in Union City on June 24, 1869. He was reared and educated for the most part by his uncle William Putnam.
WILLIAM H. THOMPSON
The whole community suffers deeply the loss of one of the oldest and most prominent citizens, W.H. Thompson, who died Saturday evening, April 26, 1924. While he had been in failing health for some time, his death came as a shock to all who knew him. W.H. Thompson was born in Union City on February 3, 1858, where he spent his entire life. He was a great grandson of Abel Thompson, one of the founders of Union City. After being educated in the local schools, William accepted a position with the Philadelphia and Erie Division of the Pennsylvania Railroad. He served the railroad company in various capacities, becoming agent in 1898, which position he held at the time of his death. This record of 46 years continuous service was one of which he could feel justly proud. He was a faithful member of the Methodist Church, and an energetic worker in all its departments. His whole life was devoted to the betterment of the community. His influence bespoke the man of sterling worth whom all men knew him to be. Mr. Thompson was a director of The First National Bank, in which capacity he had served several years. He was a member of Eureka Lodge, No. 366 F&M, of which he was Past Master. He survived by his wife, one daughter, Mrs. F.D. Kamerer of Schenectady, New York; one son, M. Lynn Thompson of Union City; two grandchildren, Jean and Julia Kamerer; a sister Mrs. Nellie Thomas, of Union City and a brother Charles A. of Erie. The house will be open to friends on Monday evening from 7 to 8 o'clock. The funeral Tuesday will be private and the service at the cemetery will be in charge of the Masons.
(Union City Times, April 28, 1924)
JOHN W. THOMPSON (Abel Thompson)
John W. Thompson was born in Union Township on November 9, 1836, the son of Joel and Mary Mulvin Thompson and grandson of Abel Thompson who settled in Union Township in 1797, locating on the farm now owned by Andrew Agnew, which he cleared and improved. He came from Fayette Co. Penn., though a native of New Jersey of English descent. Joel's wife Mary Mulvin, was a daughter of William Mulvin, an early settler of Le Boeuf Township and a native of Ireland. Joel was married three times. His first wife was Margaret Smith by whom he had one child Nancy, now Mrs. Daniel Bunting. His second wife was Mary Mulvin by whom he had eight children. They were: William; Margaret (deceased); Samuel; Jane J., wife of David Coe; Caleb (deceased); John W.;Lucilla (deceased, wife of Thomas J. Wilson; and Charles who died of diarrhea contracted in the army. His third wife was Elizabeth Wilson who now survives him. Joel died August 21, 1868 at the age of 84. His wife Mary, mother of John W., died December in 1868 at the age of 66.
John W. Thompson was married on December 25, 1855 to Mary J., daughter of Job and Mary Tobey and they had eight children. Dudley is deceased; Mary is the wife of Orson P.Scott; Frederick; Abraham L.; Gertrude N.; Samuel G.; William who is deceased and Cassius. John Thompson was raised on a farm and has always followed farming. He located in Venango Township in Crawford County, Penna., in 1871 and lived there the rest of his life. He was drafted during the Civil War and went out in Co. F.163rd Penn. Regiment. After eight months of service he was honorably discharged on account of disability. In politics, Mr. Thompson was a strong Republican. Both he and his wife were members of the Baptist Church. According to David Wilson and Nelson's Biographical, John W. Thompson was born in Union Township on November 9, 1826. He was the son of Joel and Mary Mulvin Thompson and grandson of ABEL THOMPSON who settled in Union Township in 1797,locating on the farm that in 1881 was owned by Andrew Agnew, which he cleared and improved. He came from Fayette County, Penna., though a native of New Jersey of English descent. His mother, Mary Mulvin Thompson, was a daughter of William Mulvin, an early settler of Le Boeuf Township and a native of Ireland. John W. Thompson was born in 1826 and died in 1896. He married Mary J. Tobey on December 25,1855. She was the daughter of Job and Mary Anniss Tobey.
The Thompsons had eight children.
Dudley ‑ 1857‑1863
Mary, who married Orson P. Scott
Frederick
Abraham L.
Gertrude N.
Samuel G.
William ‑ 1871‑1872
Cassius.
(Union City Times September 28, 1905)
MRS. MARY J. THOMPSON
Mrs. Mary J. Thompson, widow of the late J.W. Thompson, died last Monday morning, April 26, 1909, at her home in Frewsburg, N.Y. after suffering from a year of Bright's disease. She was 77 years, eight months, and eighteen days. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson left Union City in the year 1871, and Mr. Thompson died in June 1896. Since then, Mrs. Thompson lived with her son Cassius J., at Frewsburg. She was converted and joined the First Baptist Church of Union City under the pastorate of Reverend A.D. Bush many years ago. She has always lived the life of a true Christian woman. Four sons and two daughters are left to mourn her death.Mrs. Mary T. Scott and Mrs. Gertrude N. Hall, of Chilhower, Missouri and Fred B. and Cassius J. Thompson of Frewsburg, New York and A.L. Thompson of Cambridge Springs and Glenn Thompson of Duluth, Minnesota. Funeral services were held at Frewsburg, New York, yesterday morning. Her body was brought to Union City on train seven, Erie Road, in the afternoon and taken to the Evergreen Cemetery. Rev. D.L. Woods conducted a brief prayer service and she was laid to rest in the family lot.
Union City Times April 29, 1909
MRS. FERDINAND CARROLL
(Could be Joel Thompson and Mary Mulvin Thompson's daughter , Lucilla. She was born in August 1833.???)
By the Sumner ( Bremer County, Iowa,) Gazette, we learn of the accidental drowning of Mrs. Ferdinand Carroll. Mr. and Mrs. Carroll will be remembered by many of our citizens as former residents of this place. The unfortunate woman in some way fell head foremost into an open well on the farm where they resided and when discovered the last spark of life had fled. The following we clip from the Gazette: Died on Tuesday afternoon, July 22, 1884, by accidental drowning, Mrs. Lorinda B. Carroll, aged 53 years, 10 months and 16 days. The deceased leaves a husband, Mr. Ferdinand Carroll and six children, five sons and an only daughter who is the wife of our townsman, Mr. William Green. Mrs. Carroll was born and married in Erie Co., Pa. She has been a member of the M.E. Church for 30 years and has been a resident of this vicinity for about 10 years and was loved and respected by all who knew her."
(Union City Times, Thursday, August 14, 1883
ANDREW THOMPSON'S LINE
According to family records, Andrew Thompson was a cousin or uncle of Abel K. Thompson.
Andrew Thompson married Martha ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑ They both died in 1815.
Their children were:
John, William, Thomas, Hannah. Ann.
John Thompson. Born in 1789 and died in 1823 at St. Charles,Missouri. Married Sarah Bracken of Washington County, PA. in 1811. Sarah died in May 1854. She was the half sister of William Bracken. They had six children: A daughter, Eliza Jane married David Wilson. Five sons: William, born about 1812; Andrew, born about 1814; James, John, and Alexander. The Presbyterian records say that on September 10, 1832, Eliza Jane Thompson, (later to be David Wilson's wife) and Hariot Shrieves and William Emerson presented themselves to the session and asked to be received into the church.
In June 1832, James, John and Alexander Thompson presented themselves before the session and asked to be received into the church. David Wilson and Eliza Jane Thompson were married in 1840. William Putnam was also a member of the Presbyterian Church.
There is a John Thompson in the pension records of 1820. Black Smith. General Military Stores Department and Armory.)
Andrew married Sarah Smith. They had Jane S.(born about 1840) wife of T. Watson (The T.J. Watson who was a trustee of the Thompson Cemetery Association; James S.(born about 1839) and Lovina, wife of Levi Proctor.
Sarah died in 1843. Then Mr. Thompson married Sarah Berry of Erie county who died in 1857. They had three children: Louis F; Emma A. wife of C.M. Terrell and William B. Mr. Thompsons third marriage was with Lydia Boyce of Washington Co, PA. by whom he has three children: Lucretia, wife of Edward Briggs and Charles J. Thompson. Mr. Thompson served as assessor and collector many years. Also as justice of the peace. He is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church and a member of the session. In November 1840, his daughter Jane S. was baptized by Rev. Chamberlain. James S. married Josephine Smith in May 1864. Their children were Harley S. and Herbert.
William went to Missouri. Could be the father of Jane Eliza who was born about 1813 and married Moses Smiley. Sarah Berry is buried in Evergreen. Died June 19, 1857, age 41 years, wife of A. Thompson. Evergreen Book, p. 64.
Treasurers sale of unseated lands. Union Township Donation lands. Name: General W. Thompson's heirs. Tract 198. Acres, 500. Years: 1818‑1819. Tax: 9.69. Erie Gazette. Saturday March 4, 1820.
Thomas went to Missouri.
Hannah died unmarried, April 13, 1815.
Ann. She was born about 1768. She died October 30, 1820 at 52 years. Married as his first wife, William Bracken (1768‑April 1850) in Kentucky. They came from Washington County about 1806. Jane Thompson, the first wife of William Bracken fits in here somewhere. Maybe she was another daughter already married to William. William Bracken, after Jane's death, went to Kentucky to visit his niece.
SARAH BRACKEN THOMPSON
It was in the year 1815 that William Thompson decided to pull up stakes and move to Missouri Territory. He did so successfully and wrote such enthusiastic accounts of the climate and soil to this brother, John in Union Township that John and the Reverend John Matthews, pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Union, and a man named Watson and his family, decided to join him.
In 1816, John Thompson and Mr. Watson built a boat at Waterford, settled their families including John's wife Sarah, one of the original members of the Union Presbyterian Church, and possessions on board and floated down Le Boeuf and French Creeks and the length of the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers. Then they journeyed down the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers to St. Charles, which was situated on the bottom land between the two rivers.
To the Thompsons and Watson, the soil and climate of St.Charles was ideal, but in reality St. Charles was a very unhealthy place to live. When the river was high, the dried up channel of the Missouri, which St. Charles rested upon, filled with water. And when the water level fell, some water remained and stagnated ‑ a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and malaria. John Thompson's family had malaria every year they lived in St. Charles, and in 1823 John died and left his widow Sarah with six children to raise. Sarah stayed on in St. Charles for four more years, fighting malaria and trying to sell the land ‑ without much success at either. Finally she packed all of her worldly possessions and her children in a covered wagon and traveled back to Pennsylvania. She lived in Washington County, Pa. for two years. Then she returned to the old farm in Union which she and John had left fourteen years before. She lived there, rejoined the Presbyterian Church, and raised her children. When her sons were grown she allowed them to divide the old farm and sell the homestead part. Sarah died in May 1864, much loved and respected by her neighbors.
(Presbyterian Church Session Records
David Wilson's History)
PETER H. THOMPSON
Peter Himebaugh Thompson, one of the oldest and best known citizens in Union City, died at his home on Fourth Avenue, at an early hour on Sunday May 26, 1894, after an illness of several months. Peter Thompson was born on what is now known as the Landsrath farm near Union City on October 24, 1830 and has lived here since. In 1858, he married Miss Sarah K. Culver and they had four children. Three of his children and his wife survive him. They are Edwin J. Thompson of Erie, May I. Thompson, and Rufus C. Thompson of Union City. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church and died in a full faith of future reward. He was a member of the Israel Lodge No. 50, Knights of Honor, of Union City. In this order he held an insurance policy on his life of $2,000. For nearly fifty years Peter H. Thompson has been identified more or less with the business interests of Union City, and was known as an honest, industrious man. His death is deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. His funeral took place at his home on Tuesday afternoon at 2 'clock. Rev. Dr. Hunt from the Presbyterian Church officiated, assisted by Rev. C.M. Conway, and his remains were tenderly laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery. Peace to his ashes.
(Union City Times, Thursday, May 29, 1894)
JAMES HERBERT THOMPSON
James Herbert Thompson, who was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. J.S. Thompson died at the home of his parents on East High Street on August 7, 1895. He would have been 22 years old on September 13, 1895 and was a most promising young man. The announcement of his death had been expected at any time for several weeks past, but when it came it caused widespread sorrow. James complained of not feeling well in the early part of last December, but continued to get down to the store and to meet his friends in their gatherings. Then around March 15, 1898, he became confined to the house most of the time was a great, though patient sufferer. Socially he was a general favorite among his large circle of young friends although he found the most pleasure and greatest enjoyment in the company of his parents and his only brother H.S. Thompson. His young friends all admired and loved him for his honesty of motives and nobility of character. His funeral will be held Friday afternoon, August 9, 1895 at 2 o'clock from the family residence on East High Street. Reverend William Grassie of Cambridge, a life long friend of the family and Dr. C.L. Hunt of the Presbyterian Church which Bert has been a consistent and active member since the early pastorate of Reverend E.P. Clark will conduct the services. Then six of his friends will carry his body to Evergreen Cemetery.
(Union City Times, August 9, 1895)
MRS. LYDIA THOMPSON
Mrs. Lydia Thompson who lived with her son, Charles J.Thompson south of this city, died very suddenly on Monday, September 30 at about ten o'clock of heart failure. She had been as well as usual until about a half hour before her death. She was 71 years old. Mrs. Thompson was a kind mother, an affectionate wife and an excellent neighbor and friend. Her sudden death is cause for general regret and sorrow.
Lydia Boyce Thompson was born near Springboro, Crawford County, on July 23, 1833. She was married to Andrew Thompson on January 9, 1859, and they had two children. Charles Thompson lives in Union Township and their daughter, Mrs. Edward Briggs, lives in Union City. She was for years a member of the Presbyterian Church of Union City and lived a good Christian life. Her funeral services were held from her home yesterday, Thursday afternoon at one o'clock. Reverend Horatio Carr officiated and she was buried in Evergreen Cemetery.
(Union City Times October 3, 1904)
JAMES S. THOMPSON (Andrew Thompson)
James S. Thompson was a great‑great grandson of Andrew Thompson, one of the early pioneers of Union Mills. He was born on the homestead of his ancestors in 1845, the son of Andrew and Sarah Smith Thompson. He was reared on the farm, and stayed there until he was 24 years old. Then he became a salesman in the hardware trade. In 1869, the firm of Thompson & Wilkins was formed in the drug trade, continuing until 1871, when Mr. Thompson purchased Wilkins' interest since which he has conducted the business alone. This is the oldest drug house in the city and has a large, well‑established trade. Mr. Thompson carries a complete stock of drugs, stationery, toilet articles, etc. James married Josephine Smith in May 1864, the daughter of John R. Smith of Erie county, and a member of a pioneer family of Wattsburg. Two children have blessed this union, Harley S. and J. Herbert. Mr. Thompson is a member of the Presbyterian Church, also of the I.O.O.F. and K. of H. He is an active business man and has a well established reputation.
JAMES THOMPSON
James Thompson died at the home of his son, Harley S.Thompson, about two o'clock last Tuesday morning, following an illness of long duration. He was almost totally blind during the last two years of his life, and was nearly 90 when he died. He was the son of Andrew and Sarah Smith Thompson, born in Union Township on January 1, 1838. His great grandfather, Andrew Thompson, of Scottish descent located in the colonies in the early days of the United States. James stayed on the family farm until he was 24, then he came to Union Mills and took a job in the hardware store of John Landsrath. On May 18, 1865, he married Miss Josephine Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John R. Smith, a member of another pioneer family in Wattsburg. They had two sons, Harley S. Thompson, and J. Bert Thompson who died on August 5, 1894. After Mrs. Thompson died on December 18, 1912, James made his home with his son Harley. In 1869, James Thompson formed a partnership with R.B.Wilkins, and they purchased the drug store of N.T. Humes. Two years later he purchased Mr. Wilkin's interested and continued the business alone until about 1896, when he took in his son Harley as a partner. The business continued under the firm name of J.S. Thompson and Son, until 1906, when the store was sold to William Gates. Then Mr. Thompson retired from active business life. Early in life James joined the Presbyterian Church and continued to be an active member until the last year or so when he was incapacitated because of illness and loss of sight. He served for many years as a trustee, secretary, and ruling elder of the Presbyterian Church and gave liberally of his money in the upkeep of the church. His pastor, Reverend W.I. Eaton, conducted private funeral services at his home on South Street. He was buried in Evergreen Cemetery beside his beloved wife and son.
(Union City Times, Thursday, September 22, 1927)
MISS MINA THOMPSON
Miss Mina Thompson was born in Union Township, April 28,1843. When she was fifteen she attended school in Waterford.She made many warm friends wherever she lived by her kind ways. She has resided at different times in St. Louis, Dubuque, Iowa; Brooklyn, New York and Montreal, Canada. For the past three or four years she has lived in Dakota. She will be buried beside her mother and brother in our cemetery where her grave can receive tribute from the hands of those who love her. She was an active member of the Episcopal Society of Union City and had an abiding faith in the teachings of that church. The funeral service will be held in the Presbyterian Church next Sabbath morning at eleven o'clock. Her obituary was printed in the Union City Times of Thursday, February 19, 1885.
WILLIAM BRACKEN
(A Twentieth Century History of Erie County Pennsylvania Volume III John Miller 1909 The Lewis Publishing Company: Chicago p. 263 ) William Thomas BRACKEN William was the oldest son of Thomas Bracken of Westmoreland County, Pa. and a Miss Kilmary. He was ten years old when his parents moved to Westmoreland County. Fora number of years after beginning life for himself he lived on a farm near Cannonsburg. He subsequently traded that for 400 acres of land at Fort Lebouef, near Union City, assuming its possession in 1808, when he settled there as a pioneer. He at once erected a two story log house, a very pretentious structure for those days. Settlers were then few and far between, there being but few openings in the wilderness thereabout, which was the home of wild animals of all kinds, and the hunting ground of the Indians.
During the War of 1812, he was called upon to serve as a soldier, but his son Thomas volunteered to go in his place as a substitute. In 1814 he took the contract to build the academy building at Waterford and at that time moved to a farm on the flats near that place, it having been reserved by the state to support the academy. In 1826 he returned to his own farm, where he subsequently resided until his death in 1850.
In 1846, he was left a widower by the death of his second wife, Sarah King. After this, he started with a team to visit his sons and other relatives, driving across the country and spending some time in the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky.
In the spring of 1850, having made all of his intended visits, he started to drive to his home in Pennsylvania from Kentucky, and had proceeded but short distance when he died at the home of his niece in April 1850, near Shelbyville, Kentucky. He married first JANE THOMPSON and married second a widow, whose maiden name was Sarah King.
G.W. BRAKEMAN
History of Erie County, Pennsylvania Chicago : Warner, Beers & Co. 1884
G.W. Brakeman, dry goods, boots, shoes and carpets. He was born in Venango Co., Penn, in 1847, son of Lorenzo and Sara A. (THOMPSON) Brakeman, natives of Pennsylvania. The moved from Mercer County, Penna to York Co. Nebraska in 1870, where Mrs. Brakeman died. Brakeman came to Union City in 1870, engaging as a salesman until the spring of 1882, when he opened his present place of business in the Gillett Block. Possessing good business qualifications and carrying a good stock, he does a large and increasing business.
Mr.Brakeman married in Mercer Co. Penna, in 1870, Almira C. McCutcheon, a native of same. Three children blessed this union, all living. James D., Frank E. and William Brakeman. G.W. is connected with the M.E. Church and is a member of the I.O.O.F., K of H and Royal Templars. He is a highly esteemed business man of Union City.
CHARLES CAPRON SR.
Charles Capron, Sr. ‑ Born February 24, 1768. Died July 11,1824. He was born in Marlboro, Cheshire County, New Hampshire. He bought a farm in Marlboro in 1795, which he sold in 1804 and moved to Reading, Windsor County, Vt. He was"warned out" at Reading, 1805 and admitted a "Freeman" of Reading in 1808. He came to Erie County, Pa. in 1819 with his wife and his son, Charles Capron, Jr. Inscription, Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa. Cheney Records. Not on 1973 List. (History of Marlborough, Cheshire County, N.H., Charles A.Bemis, Boston 1881. U.S. Census of 1800 for Cheshire County,N.H.; U.S. Census of 1810 for Reading, Windsor County, Vt. VR's for Roxbury and for Brookline, Mass.; Deeds ‑ CheshireCounty N.H. and Windsor County, VT; Town Records, Reading,VT; Tax Records for Marborough, Cheshire County, N.H. History of Erie County, PA., Warner, Beers & Company, Chicago, 1884. ) Cheney Records
SARAH WHITMORE CAPRON
Sarah Whitmore Capron was born around 1770. She married Charles Capron on August 20, 1792 at Roxbury, Massachusetts‑both shown as "of Brookline." They had one son and six daughters listed in the US Census of 1810 for Reading, VT. Six children were named in the 1806 "Warning Out," not necessarily in order of birth. She died in Erie County, PA after 1819. (Sources same as Charles Capron.)
CHARLES CAPRON, JR.
Charles Capron, Jr. was born in 1797 and died August 5, 1874. He was born in Marlboro, Cheshire County, NH and moved to Reading, Windsor County, VT with his parents in 1805. In 1819 he moved to Erie, County, Pa., "bringing his parents with him." Married Catherine‑‑‑‑, who died after 1850. Married widow Sarah March Foster. (Sources same as Charles Capron)
FERDINAND CARROLL
(Nelson's Biographical Dictionary, p. 880)
Ferdinand Carroll was born in 1751 in the northern part of Ireland. He was the youngest of a large family of children, and when he was still a young boy was sent to live with a wealthy uncle in London. On his journey, a fellow traveler stole his valise, which held all of his clothes except the ones he was wearing. Ferdinand had too much pride to face his uncle in a destitute condition, so he apprenticed himself to a weaver. He stayed there for seven years at his trade.
When he was 24 years old, Ferdinand married Isabella Johnstone, and they became the parents of twelve children, six sons and six daughters. After the two oldest sons came of age, they decided to come to America. Ferdinand, unwilling to part with his children, decided to bring the entire family to America. He sold his life lease in the land he held for enough to pay the expenses of the family, and in the spring of 1801, they embarked from Dublin to New York in an old war vessel.
Ferdinand, his wife Isabella, and their nine living children survived the trip to America. The oldest child, Samuel, was 25 years old, and the youngest, Isabella was two years old. She died of measles during the voyage and was buried at sea. The voyage was a slow and tedious one and after eight weary weeks, the passengers landed at New Castle, Delaware instead of New York. Ferdinand relieved the monotony of the trip by playing his violin. Although he was an excellent musician, the passengers were so weary of the voyage that they cheered when land was sighted. They were glad to escape the captain who was an arrogant tyrant and was arrested when the ship arrived in America.
Soon after the ship docked, Ferdinand set out with his family for Chilicothe, Ohio, and had gotten as far as Pittsburgh, when he heard that fever and ague were raging in Chilicothe. He decided not to go there after all. The Holland Land Company offered 100 acres free for making a settlement and staying five years on a 400 acre tract of land, and this offer captured Ferdinand's attention. He listened further and discovered that such a tract was located on the head waters of French Creek, a tributary of the Allegheny River.
Ferdinand and his two oldest sons, Samuel and George, started up the Allegheny River to Franklin. They had a hard time deciding what part of the country to settle in. Finally Ferdinand decided to settle the matter by chance. He put a stick on end, as near perpendicular as possible, and said he would go whichever way it fell. It fell towards Meadville and he immediately set out for Meadville. After arriving at Meadville, Ferdinand was directed to Union Township. He arrived in Union and purchased the right of settlement and improvements on tract 139 in the southwest of Union Township from Andrew Halsey. The price was $30 in gold.
Ferdinand returned to Pittsburgh for his family and household goods. The family and their household goods rode on horseback from Pittsburgh, and in time were installed in their one story shanty, built of poles. The Carrolls called their holdings "Castle Halsey." In the fall of 1801, Ferdinand completed the settle of tract 139 and secured a clear deed to 100 acres, which he left to his youngest son, William. Ferdinand was 50 years old on arriving at "Castle Halsey," and his family consisted of his wife and nine living children: Samuel, George, Phoebe, Jane, Betsey, Mary, James, Thomas and William.
In 1809, Ferdinand left his farm and moved to the Moravian grant near what was later called LeBoeuf Station. Here he rented a place for a term of years, but it didn't prove to be profitable. He returned to his own farm, which in the meantime had grown up with a heavy second growth of timber. In early times the small timber was cut away, and the large timber girdled and left standing. When Ferdinand returned, he found the large dead trees had blown down among the young timber, making it more difficult to clear than the first time he had done it. But he set to work with a will, and the virgin forest gave way under the steady strokes of his axe to cleared meadow land.
Ferdinand died on February 1, 1831, at the age of 80 years, from a cancer of the lip. His wife, Isabella, died in September 1839 at the age of 70 years. He was one of the first settlers in Union Township, but if he came to America from Ireland in the year 1801 and some of the children were grown, it is not likely he was Revolutionary War Veteran.
His children were: Samuel. Samuel was 25 when the family came to America. He settled on French Creek in the Middleton settlement and died January 28, 1833, at the age of 60. He had no children.
Isabella. She was two when the family set sail. She died of the measles during the voyage and was buried at sea.
George. George settled on Tract 147, but he family wasn't contented to live in the woods, so he bought a farm about two and a half miles below Union City on the creek. He had seven children: John, James, Mary, Isabella, Margaret and Hannah. John lived near the old homestead. He was the father of eight children: Frank, Sophia, John, Charles, Maria, Albert and Alfred (twins) and Emma.
James moved to Iowa. He could have been the father of the Ferdinand Carroll who married Lorinda or Lucilla Thompson who died in the well.
Pheobe. Married David Middleton of Waterford Township,Pennsylvania.
Jane. Married Jonathan Carroll of Mercer County, Pennsylvania. Betsey.‑ Married William Boardman.
(From the Union City Times of February 27, 1879.) WILLIAM BOARDMAN of Union City is over eighty years old. He was born in Washington Township in Erie County and was among the first, if not the very first white child born in the county. Afer his birth, his father moved to Waterford and opened a tannery for a while. During the War of 1812, William's father took his wife and six children, of which William was the oldest, down the river to Cincinnati. They sailed across the country to the Anfianize, a branch of the Maumee River, where Mr. Boardman built or procured a boat in which he embarked with his family. The season was far advanced and in the wilderness his boat became fastened up in the ice where he had to remain until spring. William's father hadn't anticipated this predicament, so the family ran out of provisions and would probably have starved to death had they not captured a hog which had escaped from the Commissary Department of General Harrisons army during his campaign of 1813. Spring came at last, the ice went out of the river, and the Boardmans came down to Lake Erie, then to Cleveland and through the country back to Waterford. After that, Mr. Boardman died and it fell to William to care for his family.
Care for his family William did, but he had early developed a yearning to sail the waters. He made many trips down French Creek and the Allegheny river with boats carrying lumber, potatoes, etc. The most memorable of his trips was the one he made in the winter of 1829. He heard that Cherry lumber was bringing the fabulous price of $50 per thousand feet at New Orleans, when it was only worth $6 or $7 at Waterford. He collected three or four boatloads at French Creek bridge. In the fall of 1829 he and his brother Robert and eleven others formed a crew of thirteen choice young men, all noted for their strength and hardihood. They ran his lumber to New Orleans. At New Orleans he found the price high for lumber, but the demand limited, so he dismissed all of his hands, including Nathaniel Wilson, but two, and the others came back up the river in steam boats. The two who stayed, William Smith and John Wilson, hired to the captain of a schooner and worked their passage round to New York. This took them forty days and after that they walked home. After waiting until John sold his lumber and boats for about $700, William had his money stolen from him and returned home poor. Some time after he returned he married Miss Betsy Carroll and raised a family. For many years he lived in Union, farming, attending grist mill and saw mill and performing duty in township offices when called upon. OR, Betsey married John Richards of Brady's Bend, Pennsylvania.??
Mary. Never married.
James. Settled near the west line of Union township, where he died at the age of 64 years. He was the father of 15 children.
Thomas. Veteran of the War of 1812. Settled near the west line of Union Township and married Elizabeth Mulvin.He was the father of nine children. Died at the age of 64 years. Thomas's daughter Isabella, married Josiah Shreve, son of Richard Shreve Jr. and Margaret Shreve, among the first settlers of Union Township. They married January 6, 1847 and had three children. Sidney A. was the wife of J.P. Wilkins. George R. died and Almeda E. married O.B. Sherwood.
Wesley, the oldest son of Thomas settled on a farm his father gave him. He married Phoebe Organ and they had seven children. Wesley died in 1879 at age 64.
Jonathan M.Carroll was Wesley and Phoebe's fourth son. He was born on the old homestead on October 2, 1855. Jonathan was reared and educated at his birth place and stayed at home until he was 24. In 1889 he took possession of his farm of 60 acres which his father had willed to him. He married Miss Olive Barnes, daughter of Levi and Mary Shelmandine Barnes, on November 15, 1889. They had two children, Clarence and Winifred. He was a Republican and served his township as road commissioner and school director. His family were members of the Methodist Church.
Fletcher S. Carroll was the fifth son of Wesley and Phoebe. He was born at the homestead on November 27, 1858. He was reared in LeBoeuf Township and educated in the public schools there and at the Waterford Academy. After completing his education he returned home and followed farming. He inherited the homestead after his father died, which consisted of 100 acres of well cultivated land, twenty five acres being part of his grandfather's (Thomas Carroll) estate. In 1884 he began selling milk in Union City, and rapidly built up a substantial trade. He married Miss Alice, daughter of Levi C. and Mary Shelmadine Barnes, on December 23, 1872. They had three children: Wayne, Alta May and Mabel.
O.W. Carroll, tailor and clothier, of Union City, is the next son in order of birth of Wesley and Phoebe Carroll. He was born July 6, 1860, and reared at his birthplace and educated at the public schools and Waterford Academy. After completing his education, he taught school for two years and then to Union City and purchased the furniture business of A.O.Gillette which he conducted for two years. He sold out after two years, and after that he spent eighteen months trading throughout the Western States and Mexico. In 1883 he returned to Union City and opened a clothing business with Van Dusen, the firm. He continued that business until 1890 when he sold out and went into partnership with R.R. Lewis, under the firm name of Lewis & Carroll. They conduct a first class merchant tailoring establishment. On September 15,1886, O.W. married Jennie, daughter of David Carroll of Cleveland, Ohio. They had four children: Elsie, Rees, Clifford and Clifton (twins). The family are members of the Methodist Church.
William‑He was the youngest son of Ferdinand Carroll. He was given the old homestead on Tract 159, and married Hannah Slouson in 1820. They had ten children: James, Lucy, Mary A., Lucilla, Esther, Charles S., fatally wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, December 13, 1862, and died three days later. William's son David married Miss H. Coventry in 1854 and owned part of the old original tract. They had seven children: Ella, Jennie, Rosa, Etta, Fred, Hannah and George. William's son, George W., owned a greater part of the old homestead obtained from the Holland Land Company for settlement of tract 159. In 1871, George W. started a cheese factory, which ran satisfactorily . In 1890, a post office was established and the name of Ferdinand chosen in honor of the first settler of the tract. George W. married Miss Susan A. Barnes, daughter of Levi Barnes in 1863. Levi Barnes was one of the pioneers who came from the east in 1820 and settled south of tract 159 where he died at 82 years old age. She was a woman of rare energy and business ability.
William's son, Jonathan H. lived on part of the homestead. He married Antoinette Myers in 1851. They had three sons and one daughter. They were : J. Burr, C. Eddie, Lotta, and Lavidia.
William's daughter Esther, married G.W. Brooks. They had two sons, Glenni who died at 12 and George Cliton who died at 16. William's daughter, Eliza Jane married S.B. Brooks. They had seven sons and two daughters. They were: Ashley J., Cassius, Charles S., Archibald, Elverdo C., William, George G., Phoebe and Ruth.
Thomas's son, Samuel J. lived in Bloomfield, Crawford, County, Pa
Jonathan G., the next younger son Thomas, lived on a part of the old homestead. He had two children, Solomon and Rose. Thomas's daughters were: Jane, Isabella, who married Josiah Shreve, and Margaret.
DAVISON
Catherine A. Barr was born in Woodcock Township in Crawford County, June 22, 1831. She spent her girlhood there and was educated in the district school. Early in life she became a Christian and in 1852 joined the Reformed Church at Saegertown. On September 22, 1853 she married Garret Davison, and they had four children. Their children were John who died when he was thirteen; Addie O., now Mrs. A.L. Wales of Corry; Laura E., now Mrs. William Dunmeyer of Union City, and C.G. Davison, of Union City. On September 22, 1864, Garret Davison died in Andersonville prison. Mrs. Davison married E.L. Morton on April 18, 1872 and they at once moved to Union City where Mr. Morton engaged in the mercantile business. He continued at that until he died on September 22nd, 1864. Since that time Mrs.Morton remained a resident of Union City and lived with her daughter, Mrs. William Dunmeyer. She was a most excellent woman, endearing herself to all with whom she had been acquainted, and her death on January 12, 1893, is deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and relatives. From the time she came to Union City she became a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church and led a consistent Christian life. Her funeral services were held from the residence of William Dunmeyer and she was buried in Evergreen cemetery.
MATTHEW GRAY
Matthew Gray died in 1814, and his probably buried on his farm on the Concord Road in Union Township. He was one of the first settlers in the Township. With his brother William and sister Rachel, he came to Union Township about 1803 from Huntington County. Matthew Gray Jr. served in the 4th class of Andrew Bogg's Company of the 4th Battalion of Lancaster County Militia (Pa Archives, 5th Series Vol 7, Pages 444‑445.
William Gray served in the 1st class of the same regiment. Matthew Gray Sr. also served in these companies.
JOHN G. GRAY
Twentieth Century History of Erie County, Pa. Volume III John Miller 1909 The Lewis Publishing Company ‑ Chicago p. 603 John G. Gray is a worthy and prosperous farmer of Wayne Township, Erie County, where he owns and operates a farm of 100 acres, a portion of which is devoted to the raising of general stock and poultry and another part to the breeding of fancy varieties of stock. Mr. Gray was born July 21, 1845, and is a native of Wayne Township, where he was reared and educated, finishing his schooling at Waterford Academy. In 1864 he joined the Union Army as a member of the 12th PVI., serving therein for three years and passing uninjured through various important battles. He was a scout under"Little Phil" (Sheridan) in the Shenandoah Valley about eight months. He was honorably discharged on July 24, 1865. After the war he married Mrs. Jane Smith. They had a daughter, Mary A. Gray.
Mr. Gray has not always confined himself to farming. For over 25 years he was a resident of Erie, during which period he held the office of councilman and was a citizen of influence. Since returning to Wayne Township he has resumed agricultural pursuits, but has taken no part in public or political affairs. For many years he has been identified with the G.A.R. and is an honored member of Post No. 67. (Strong Vincent Post ‑ Erie) Mr. Gray is the son of Matthew A. and Esther Smith Gray, the former being born on the Juniata River in Pennsylvania in 1796. Both he and his brother James were soldiers in the War of 1812. It is claimed that James was the strongest man in Harrison's Army and that one of the tests which he successfully met was the lifting of a cannon from the ground by main strength of hands and arms. The children born to Mr.and Mrs. Matthew Gray were: William C. (deceased), Annie, Lavinia and Robert (both deceased) Jane, Susanna (deceased) ,Melissa, Dr. T.J. Gray; John G. and Henry M. Matthew A. Gray died on May 16, 1877 at the age of 81 years and Esther died in 1902 at the age of 99 years. The paternal grandfather, William Gray, in 1810, migrated from the family homestead on the Juniata river, settling at Waterford in Erie County. There he took up about 40 acres of land which was divided among his children in later years. By his marriage to Miss Allison, he became the father of William, James, Matthew, Robert, John, Sally, Annie and Mrs. F. Gray. Mr. Gray is a Republican.
MICHAEL HARE
Michael Hare was born in Armaugh County, Ireland on June 10, 1727. He was educated for the priesthood or at least attended St. Patrick's Seminary near his birthplace. He acquired some education and was a skilled weaver. After he came to America he stopped first near Philadelphia and then moved northwest with the tide of migration to Northumberland County. He served in the French and Indian War under George Washington. He was the one who helped hold back the Indians who were bent on exterminating Braddock's English regulars to the last man. At this point he was 28 years old, and was wounded. Two years later, when he was 30, Michael saw the English triumph over the French, taking over Fort Duquesne and leaving the Ohio valley.
Then Indian troubles broke out under Pontiac. He fought in the battle of Bushy Run, serving under Colonel Henry Bouquet who was pressing forward to relieve Captain Ecuyver,then besieged in Fort Pitt. Bouquet and Ecuyver were Swiss soldiers of fortune serving the English crown in America. At Bushy Run eight years after the humiliation of Braddock, the Indians tried to trick Bouquet's forces into a similar ambush, but Bouquet tricked them and disastrously defeated them. The siege of Fort Pitt, earlier Fort Duquesne under the French, was raised by the arrival of Bouquet's forces. Michael was there. During the Revolutionary War, Michael Hare enlisted in Northumberland County when enlistments were for just a few months. But Michael kept reenlisting and served practically continuously through the war. He was in the battle of Long Island, and was detached to serve under Anthony Wayne in the attack on Stony Point. He also served under Colonel Broadhead.
The archives of Pennsylvania reveal that Michael Hare was a Ranger from Westmoreland county in 1777, a private in 1780,and later a sergeant in the Pennsylvania volunteers. He was an Indian captive in 1782. Taken to Detroit as a prisoner and then to Quebec, he was exchanged in November 1782, being sent by sea to Philadelphia.
Michael Hare served as an Indian interpreter and had a vast knowledge of their habits and customs that stood him in good stead more than once in his long life. In 1781, he found himself in the hands of the Indians when Colonel Crawford made an ill fated expedition against them. Colonel Crawford was burned at the stake by the Indians, but Simon Girty, the "renegade white," may have been liked Michael Hare and influenced the Indians to spare him. He did not do this for Colonel Crawford. Another ill fated Indian expedition Michael was involved in was in 1782 when he served in Colonel Archibald Lechrey's company that was ambushed at the mouth of the Great Miami River by the Indian leader Brant and Simon Girty. Hare was one of the survivors of the 100, 42 having been killed. Lochrey's outfit was trying to make the way westward to join the forces of George Rogers Clark. Again in 1791, Hare was part of General Arthur St.Clair's expedition against the Indians. After scalping Michael on the field of battle in Parke County, Ohio, the Indians left him for dead. He was 64 years old at the time. But instead of dying, Michael was befriended by an Indian woman. She guided him all the way across present day Ohio into Westmoreland county where he lived at the time. She hid him by day piling branches and leaves over him, while she kept a look out from a tree nearby. He was once hidden underneath a log, which Indians in their search, had mounted, looking around. A key to his contact with the Indian woman and all of the Indians in general, probably was the fact he had served as an interpreter.
Michael Hare and his family came to Erie County about 1796 or 1797 and settled near a little stream known as Hare's Creek, north of Corry. His cabin was near a clump of apple trees. David Wilson, in his History of Erie County, says that Michael Hare "was a weaver by trade, and if any of the neighbors had a piece of fancy work that ordinary weavers could not do, such as double coverlets or bagging of double thicknesses twilled on one side and plain on the other, if they would send for Mr. Hare, he would go, be it far or near, and rig up their loom, and show them how to weave it and charge, the moderate sum of two dollars."
After moving from Hare Creek, the Hare family settled at Oak Hill between Waterford and Union City. When he was 100 years old, Michael Hare taught school, first in his cabin,and afterward in a school house in the vicinity. Mrs.Cynthia Ensworth, historian of Waterford, said, "Because of his frightful scalp wound, he wore a cap not only during school hours but at all times. He sat close to the fireplace because of poor circulation, keeping one side of his face turned toward the fire." Mrs. Velma Alexander Mando, one of his descendants who researched his life, said that he was short, solidly built, and may have weighted about 170 pounds in the prime of his life. She said he favored his scalp wound by leaning his head toward the fire for comfort. Michael Hare married Elizabeth, twenty two years younger than he was, and they had thirteen children. He died March 3, 1842, at the age of 115 years and 8 months and 22 days. Elizabeth died April 10, 1840, at age 90 years.
According to a story in the Erie Times of Sunday July 1, 1951, Michael and Elizabeth and Captain Robert King and his family had earlier been buried in a cemetery located in the west section of Waterford Borough. Then the remains of Michael Hare and his wife were moved to Evergreen cemetery many years ago. " Michael Hare is buried in the soldier's plot and nearby is the grave, of another Revolutionary soldier, Captain Robert King,"who departed this life, December 7, 1826, aged 69 years."Near are other markers of soldiers who served to perpetuate the nation which Hare and King fought to establish."
MULVIN
The first generations of Mulvins. Belle was the daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Mulvin) Carroll. Elizabeth Mulvin married Thomas Carroll. Belle married Josiah Shreve, son of Richard Shreve Jr. and Margaret on January 6, 1847.
William Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City William Mulvin/who died April 22nd/1848 aged 92 years.
Wife: Margaret, q.v. Son: William, Jr., q.v. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings
William Mulvin, Jr. Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City Memorial of/William Mulvin/Junior who died Feb. 16th/ D. 1828, aged 22 years
There is a calm for those who weep,/ rest for weary pilgrims found;/ And while the mouldering ashes sleep/Low in the ground;/The soul, of origin divine,/God's glorious image freed from clay,/ In heaven's eternal shore shall shine/A star of day. Cheney Records
1973 Cemetery Readings Elisabeth Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa. Memorial of/Elisabeth Mulvin/Consort of/Robert Mulvin./Who died March 2? A.D. 1830. Aged 30 years,/Depart my friends, dry up your tears/ We'll meet again when Christ appears,/Therefore be ye also ready: for in/such an hour as ye think not, The/Son of Man Cometh. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings
Margaret Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa. Memorial of/Margaret, Wife of/William Mulvin/ died June 17, 1850/ Aged 89 years. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings Robert Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa.: Robert/Mulvin/ Mar. 12, 1869/Aged 72 years. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings
HENRY MULVIN
(Obituary from Union City Times, June 1930)
Henry Mulvin was born June 2, 1846 and was the seventh in the family of twelve children of Robert and Mary Middleton Mulvin, who were natives of Ireland. He was reared and educated in Union and Concord Townships and when he was a boy of 15, enlisted in Col. L. 12th Pennsylvania Cavalry under Captain Tourtellott. He participated in many hard fought battles, and was captured at Winchester, Va. on June 13, 1863. After his capture he was taken to Libby prison where he was kept one month and then taken to Belle Island where he was kept four months. After returning from the war he followed the trade of mason, building extensively. On June 2, 1868 he married Abbie, the youngest daughter of George W. and Lusetta Brooks. They had six children. He died at the home of his son, Charles of Wayne Township, on June 7, 1930. Henry Mulvin was a member of the United Brethren Church at Wayne Valley for forty years. He was buried in Beaverdam Cemetery.
RANGE
Thursday, September 4, 1884
Some of Nancy Range's heirs settled near Mill Village.
SMILEY
JANE ELIZA SMIlEY
Jane/Eliza/Wife of/Moses Smiley/died/ Dec.‑‑‑‑1836 Age 23 yrs. God my redeemer/And ever from the skies/Look down and watch/ es all my dust/Till he shall bid it rise. 1973 Cemetery Readings
(Nelson's Biographical. p. 878. says that Jane is Jane Thompson . A daughter named Jane survived her. Jane Smiley married M.B. Chamberlin. possibly a daughter of Andrew? She doesn't appear anywhere in Abel's line???)
JAMES SMILEY
James Smiley. Father of Moses Smiley. James was a soldier in the War of 1812, who served under General Harrison. He died in Union City, Pa. on January 13, 1840. Cheney Records. Buried in Waterford Cemetery. He was the grandfather of Dallas G. Smiley, a merchant in Union City. James was a soldier in the war of 1812, serving under General Harrison. After the War, James came to Union City and operated the first gristmill in the town.
DAVID WILSON
David Wilson was born on the family homestead in Union Township on March 20, 1812, a son of Hugh and Hannah Wilson, early pioneers in the area. His father, Hugh Wilson, was born October 16, 1773 in County Down Ireland and traveled to Wilmington, Delaware in 1792. Two years later in 1794 he joined General George Washington on his way to squash the Whiskey Rebellion at Pittsburgh. High married Hannah Frampton, who was born July 22, 1774 in Mifflin County, Pa. Hugh and Hannah settled in Erie County, after acquiring 200 acres of land from the Holland Land Company and 400 acres of state lands.
In 1798, Hugh brought Hannah 200 miles through the wilderness to her new home in Union Township. They had nine children, including David, born in Union Township. The Wilsons joined the Presbyterian Church at Union under Reverend Amos Chase in 1820. David Wilson was brought up in the wilderness with no educational advantages, but he began to study surveying. In 1838 he acquired a practical knowledge of his profession as axman with the surveyors of the Pennsylvania and Erie Railroad. Later, the Holland Land Company hired him to survey tracts in Erie and Crawford Counties. By teaching school through the winters he earned enough money to pay for his farm at $2.50 an acre. He cleared the land and lived on it from 1839 until his death.
On November 21, 1839 he married Eliza Jane Thompson, who was born at St. Charles, Missouri on February 23, 1821. Their children were Hugh, Sarah, Hannah, and Lee. The Wilsons joined the Presbyterian Church early in their lives and David served as elder and clerk of the session for many years. On March 18, 1876 Mrs. Eliza Jane Wilson departed this life being fifty‑five years of age and having been a consistent member of this particular church for forty‑five years. Written by her husband, David Wilson, clerk, by order of the session of the church. In 1850 David was elected and served for three years as county surveyor. He surveyed and laid out Evergreen Cemetery in Union City and through the years held various offices of trust, including Auditor and Justice of the Peace of Union Township for twenty years. His sons inherited his instruments and followed his surveying profession.
(Presbyterian Church Session Records Union City Times)
EVERSON
Thursday August 16, 1888 Union City Times
An Old Legal Document On Saturday last, Mr. Charles Bacon bought of Mrs. W.T.Everson, her farm and which is located in Amity Township, and which is one of the best farms in Erie County, paying $8,000 for it. When a deed was made and handed to Mr. Bacon, he was also given an old soldier's deed for the same piece of land, made to Matthew Smith by the Supreme Executive Council of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on the 13th day of August 1787. The deed was executed 101 years ago last Monday. The deed is made on parchment and is in an excellent state of preservation. At that time this was Westmoreland County. During all that time there has never been anything entered against this piece of land. The old deed is valuable as a keepsake. History of Erie County, Volume II, 1884. p. 171.
W.T. EVERSON
W.T. Everson of Union City. b. 1827 in Morovia, New Jersey. His parents were William and Catharine Thompson of New Jersey. He was the father of W.E. Everson. W.E. Everson married Belle Fuller, daughter of Rulaf Fuller. Rulaf's other daughter, Clara, married A.F. Young. A.F. Young was the father of Rulaf Young and the grandfather of Marshal Young of Young Hardware, Union City.
Departed this life on the evening of the 3rd day of July, 1840 at his home in Union, Erie Co., Pa. He was in the 84th year of his age. He was a native of the State of New Jersey, from which he removed his family into Pennsylvania, where he lived until his death. Father Thompson took part in the Revolutionary Struggle and lived long to enjoy the blessing of that glorious liberty and independence so gloriously achieved by his contemporaries image and arms for themselves and posterity of which he has left a numerous member to mourn his death even down to the 4th generation. He left ten children, 80 grandchildren, 72 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren for a total of 165 descendants at this time.
The Erie Gazette July 30, 1840, page 3
Departed this life on the evening of the 3rd instant, at his residence in Union Township, in the 84th year of his age, Mr.Abel Thompson; he was a native of New Jersey, where he was left an orphan child; and where he married his first wife, also an orphan; he removed his family in the year 1790 to Fayette County, Pa., where he resided till 1802; when here moved to Union, where he continued to reside on the same farm, until his decease. He had 8 children by his first wife, 6 of whom have survived him; and 2 by his second wife, one of whom survives with his widowed mother, to mourn theirl ives. Father Thompson has had 80 grandchildren, 42 greatgrand children, and three great great grandchildren ‑ the aggregate number of direct descendants, 165, from these two orphan children who now lie side by side in the family burying ground on his late residence. Father Thompson took part in the revolutionary struggle, and lived long to enjoy the blessings of liberty and independence so gloriously achieved by the contemporaries of his age and arms; and had he survived a few hours longer he would have seen the light of the anniversary of our glorious independence of 1840. But we trust he has gone to celebrate the joys of that glorious victory achieved by the captain of our Salvation.
CALEB THOMPSON (Abel #1's Son)
Died October 15, 1863, Caleb Thompson of Union, aged 74 years. Mr. Thompson was one of the earlier settlers of this county having come to it in the year 1802, along with his father, and living here ever since and of course experiencing all the inconveniences and hardships incident to the early settlement of the county. He was always known as a man of integrity and a great deal of character, and his name has been identified with all the public transactions of the township for many years. In his death the public has sustained a loss, and he leaves a numerous body of friends to mourn his departure.
( Erie Gazette, December 10, 1863. (Cheney Records. **The Cheney Records can be found in the Erie County Historical Society in Erie, Pennsylvania)
ROBERT H. THOMPSON
The news of the death of Robert H. Thompson reached Union City in June 1910. Robert died at his home in Brooklyn, New York, in the third week of June 1910 after a brief illness. He had just returned from a trip abroad, having been married for the second time a few months before. He and his wife were on their honeymoon voyage just a few short weeks ago. Mr. Thompson was about seventy years old, and a former Union City native. He was born on the Bartholme farm a mile west of town, and when a young man went to New York . While living in Brooklyn he accumulated a fortune estimated at over a million dollars, the bulk of which he left his new wife. Besides his widow, one son survives him. Robert H. Thompson was an uncle of Union City citizen, Charles W. Hayes. (Union City Times June 30, 1910
MRS. KATHERINE THOMPSON HAYES
Katherine Thompson Hayes was the oldest child of Robert and Catherine Thompson and was born in County Fermanagh, Ireland. They came to America in 1840, when Katherine was six and settled on a farm west of Union City, now known as the Bartholme farm. For a short time Katherine taught school, then she went to Waterford and learned dress making and soon made that her business. She married S.M. Hayes in 1859 and they had nine children. She was a sister of Robert Thompson .
(Union City Times, June 18, 1908)
MRS. ELIZABETH THOMPSON (Joel, Abel #1's sons' third wife)
Mrs. Elizabeth Thompson died in Utica, Venango County, on December 28, 1882. She was 82 years and 8 days. Elizabeth Wallace was born in 1800 and in November 1828 she married Thomas L. Wilson of Butler County who died on October 5 1841. She remained a widow until May 1846 when she married William Mulholland who lived until December 26, 1856. On November 11, 1863, she married Joel Thompson who lived until August 21, 1868. Again, Elizabeth was left a widow. Her life therefore was one of sorrow all through, but she bore it with Christian fortitude and died in full faith of her Redeemer. At age 16 she joined the Methodist Episcopal Church and during all the years of her life never regretted the move she had made. She was kind hearted and generous to a fault, and all who knew her will regret her death.
(Union City Times December 1882)
CHARLES C. THOMPSON
Charles C. Thompson was born in Union City on December 14, 1833. He was a carpenter. He married Amanda Burroughs. Caleb Thompson was his grandfather, and Abel #1 his great grandfather.
MRS. CHARLES C. THOMPSON (Amanda Susanna Burroughs)
Mrs. Charles C. Thompson died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Nellie Thomas on East High Street in Union City at an early hour last Saturday morning. For the past six years her health has gradually failed, despite all that could be done for her in the way of medical or kindly care. Two weeks ago today she was taken much worse and since that time until her death, scarcely realized anything that was going on about her. Much of the time she had been a great sufferer, but bore it all with a Christian fortitude. Amanda Susanna Burroughs was born in Shrewsbury, Rutland County, Vermont, on June 3, 1834. Her parents arrived in Beaverdam on October 20, 1843. On February 18, 1844, they came to Union where they settled. On December 25, 1854, at the home of her sister, Mrs.William Putnam, Amanda married Charles C. Thompson, with Moses Smiley, Esq. performing the ceremony. The Thompsons had seven children, three of whom are now living. Mrs. Nellie Thomas and W.H. Thompson live in Union City and C. A.Thompson lives in Brocton, New York. Three sisters survive her. They are Mrs. William Putnam and Mrs. J.L. Spaulding of Union City, and Mrs. Helen A. King of Jamestown, New York. One brother, H.E. Burroughs of Union City also survives. Mrs. Thompson was a woman who was loved by all who knew her. She was devoted to her husband and children, their comfort and happiness being always uppermost in her mind. She was a member of the Methodist Church of Union City and died in full faith of a future reward. Funeral services were held from the home of Mrs. Nellie Thomas of Union City at 2:30 in afternoon. Her pastor, Reverend S.M. Sartwell officiated and she was buried in Evergreen Cemetery.
William H. Thompson was their son. He was born in 1850 and died in 1924 and is buried in Evergeen. Charles Alanson Thompson, another son, was born in Union City on June 24, 1869. He was reared and educated for the most part by his uncle William Putnam.
WILLIAM H. THOMPSON
The whole community suffers deeply the loss of one of the oldest and most prominent citizens, W.H. Thompson, who died Saturday evening, April 26, 1924. While he had been in failing health for some time, his death came as a shock to all who knew him. W.H. Thompson was born in Union City on February 3, 1858, where he spent his entire life. He was a great grandson of Abel Thompson, one of the founders of Union City. After being educated in the local schools, William accepted a position with the Philadelphia and Erie Division of the Pennsylvania Railroad. He served the railroad company in various capacities, becoming agent in 1898, which position he held at the time of his death. This record of 46 years continuous service was one of which he could feel justly proud. He was a faithful member of the Methodist Church, and an energetic worker in all its departments. His whole life was devoted to the betterment of the community. His influence bespoke the man of sterling worth whom all men knew him to be. Mr. Thompson was a director of The First National Bank, in which capacity he had served several years. He was a member of Eureka Lodge, No. 366 F&M, of which he was Past Master. He survived by his wife, one daughter, Mrs. F.D. Kamerer of Schenectady, New York; one son, M. Lynn Thompson of Union City; two grandchildren, Jean and Julia Kamerer; a sister Mrs. Nellie Thomas, of Union City and a brother Charles A. of Erie. The house will be open to friends on Monday evening from 7 to 8 o'clock. The funeral Tuesday will be private and the service at the cemetery will be in charge of the Masons.
(Union City Times, April 28, 1924)
JOHN W. THOMPSON (Abel Thompson)
John W. Thompson was born in Union Township on November 9, 1836, the son of Joel and Mary Mulvin Thompson and grandson of Abel Thompson who settled in Union Township in 1797, locating on the farm now owned by Andrew Agnew, which he cleared and improved. He came from Fayette Co. Penn., though a native of New Jersey of English descent. Joel's wife Mary Mulvin, was a daughter of William Mulvin, an early settler of Le Boeuf Township and a native of Ireland. Joel was married three times. His first wife was Margaret Smith by whom he had one child Nancy, now Mrs. Daniel Bunting. His second wife was Mary Mulvin by whom he had eight children. They were: William; Margaret (deceased); Samuel; Jane J., wife of David Coe; Caleb (deceased); John W.;Lucilla (deceased, wife of Thomas J. Wilson; and Charles who died of diarrhea contracted in the army. His third wife was Elizabeth Wilson who now survives him. Joel died August 21, 1868 at the age of 84. His wife Mary, mother of John W., died December in 1868 at the age of 66.
John W. Thompson was married on December 25, 1855 to Mary J., daughter of Job and Mary Tobey and they had eight children. Dudley is deceased; Mary is the wife of Orson P.Scott; Frederick; Abraham L.; Gertrude N.; Samuel G.; William who is deceased and Cassius. John Thompson was raised on a farm and has always followed farming. He located in Venango Township in Crawford County, Penna., in 1871 and lived there the rest of his life. He was drafted during the Civil War and went out in Co. F.163rd Penn. Regiment. After eight months of service he was honorably discharged on account of disability. In politics, Mr. Thompson was a strong Republican. Both he and his wife were members of the Baptist Church. According to David Wilson and Nelson's Biographical, John W. Thompson was born in Union Township on November 9, 1826. He was the son of Joel and Mary Mulvin Thompson and grandson of ABEL THOMPSON who settled in Union Township in 1797,locating on the farm that in 1881 was owned by Andrew Agnew, which he cleared and improved. He came from Fayette County, Penna., though a native of New Jersey of English descent. His mother, Mary Mulvin Thompson, was a daughter of William Mulvin, an early settler of Le Boeuf Township and a native of Ireland. John W. Thompson was born in 1826 and died in 1896. He married Mary J. Tobey on December 25,1855. She was the daughter of Job and Mary Anniss Tobey.
The Thompsons had eight children.
Dudley ‑ 1857‑1863
Mary, who married Orson P. Scott
Frederick
Abraham L.
Gertrude N.
Samuel G.
William ‑ 1871‑1872
Cassius.
(Union City Times September 28, 1905)
MRS. MARY J. THOMPSON
Mrs. Mary J. Thompson, widow of the late J.W. Thompson, died last Monday morning, April 26, 1909, at her home in Frewsburg, N.Y. after suffering from a year of Bright's disease. She was 77 years, eight months, and eighteen days. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson left Union City in the year 1871, and Mr. Thompson died in June 1896. Since then, Mrs. Thompson lived with her son Cassius J., at Frewsburg. She was converted and joined the First Baptist Church of Union City under the pastorate of Reverend A.D. Bush many years ago. She has always lived the life of a true Christian woman. Four sons and two daughters are left to mourn her death.Mrs. Mary T. Scott and Mrs. Gertrude N. Hall, of Chilhower, Missouri and Fred B. and Cassius J. Thompson of Frewsburg, New York and A.L. Thompson of Cambridge Springs and Glenn Thompson of Duluth, Minnesota. Funeral services were held at Frewsburg, New York, yesterday morning. Her body was brought to Union City on train seven, Erie Road, in the afternoon and taken to the Evergreen Cemetery. Rev. D.L. Woods conducted a brief prayer service and she was laid to rest in the family lot.
Union City Times April 29, 1909
MRS. FERDINAND CARROLL
(Could be Joel Thompson and Mary Mulvin Thompson's daughter , Lucilla. She was born in August 1833.???)
By the Sumner ( Bremer County, Iowa,) Gazette, we learn of the accidental drowning of Mrs. Ferdinand Carroll. Mr. and Mrs. Carroll will be remembered by many of our citizens as former residents of this place. The unfortunate woman in some way fell head foremost into an open well on the farm where they resided and when discovered the last spark of life had fled. The following we clip from the Gazette: Died on Tuesday afternoon, July 22, 1884, by accidental drowning, Mrs. Lorinda B. Carroll, aged 53 years, 10 months and 16 days. The deceased leaves a husband, Mr. Ferdinand Carroll and six children, five sons and an only daughter who is the wife of our townsman, Mr. William Green. Mrs. Carroll was born and married in Erie Co., Pa. She has been a member of the M.E. Church for 30 years and has been a resident of this vicinity for about 10 years and was loved and respected by all who knew her."
(Union City Times, Thursday, August 14, 1883
ANDREW THOMPSON'S LINE
According to family records, Andrew Thompson was a cousin or uncle of Abel K. Thompson.
Andrew Thompson married Martha ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑ They both died in 1815.
Their children were:
John, William, Thomas, Hannah. Ann.
John Thompson. Born in 1789 and died in 1823 at St. Charles,Missouri. Married Sarah Bracken of Washington County, PA. in 1811. Sarah died in May 1854. She was the half sister of William Bracken. They had six children: A daughter, Eliza Jane married David Wilson. Five sons: William, born about 1812; Andrew, born about 1814; James, John, and Alexander. The Presbyterian records say that on September 10, 1832, Eliza Jane Thompson, (later to be David Wilson's wife) and Hariot Shrieves and William Emerson presented themselves to the session and asked to be received into the church.
In June 1832, James, John and Alexander Thompson presented themselves before the session and asked to be received into the church. David Wilson and Eliza Jane Thompson were married in 1840. William Putnam was also a member of the Presbyterian Church.
There is a John Thompson in the pension records of 1820. Black Smith. General Military Stores Department and Armory.)
Andrew married Sarah Smith. They had Jane S.(born about 1840) wife of T. Watson (The T.J. Watson who was a trustee of the Thompson Cemetery Association; James S.(born about 1839) and Lovina, wife of Levi Proctor.
Sarah died in 1843. Then Mr. Thompson married Sarah Berry of Erie county who died in 1857. They had three children: Louis F; Emma A. wife of C.M. Terrell and William B. Mr. Thompsons third marriage was with Lydia Boyce of Washington Co, PA. by whom he has three children: Lucretia, wife of Edward Briggs and Charles J. Thompson. Mr. Thompson served as assessor and collector many years. Also as justice of the peace. He is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church and a member of the session. In November 1840, his daughter Jane S. was baptized by Rev. Chamberlain. James S. married Josephine Smith in May 1864. Their children were Harley S. and Herbert.
William went to Missouri. Could be the father of Jane Eliza who was born about 1813 and married Moses Smiley. Sarah Berry is buried in Evergreen. Died June 19, 1857, age 41 years, wife of A. Thompson. Evergreen Book, p. 64.
Treasurers sale of unseated lands. Union Township Donation lands. Name: General W. Thompson's heirs. Tract 198. Acres, 500. Years: 1818‑1819. Tax: 9.69. Erie Gazette. Saturday March 4, 1820.
Thomas went to Missouri.
Hannah died unmarried, April 13, 1815.
Ann. She was born about 1768. She died October 30, 1820 at 52 years. Married as his first wife, William Bracken (1768‑April 1850) in Kentucky. They came from Washington County about 1806. Jane Thompson, the first wife of William Bracken fits in here somewhere. Maybe she was another daughter already married to William. William Bracken, after Jane's death, went to Kentucky to visit his niece.
SARAH BRACKEN THOMPSON
It was in the year 1815 that William Thompson decided to pull up stakes and move to Missouri Territory. He did so successfully and wrote such enthusiastic accounts of the climate and soil to this brother, John in Union Township that John and the Reverend John Matthews, pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Union, and a man named Watson and his family, decided to join him.
In 1816, John Thompson and Mr. Watson built a boat at Waterford, settled their families including John's wife Sarah, one of the original members of the Union Presbyterian Church, and possessions on board and floated down Le Boeuf and French Creeks and the length of the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers. Then they journeyed down the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers to St. Charles, which was situated on the bottom land between the two rivers.
To the Thompsons and Watson, the soil and climate of St.Charles was ideal, but in reality St. Charles was a very unhealthy place to live. When the river was high, the dried up channel of the Missouri, which St. Charles rested upon, filled with water. And when the water level fell, some water remained and stagnated ‑ a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and malaria. John Thompson's family had malaria every year they lived in St. Charles, and in 1823 John died and left his widow Sarah with six children to raise. Sarah stayed on in St. Charles for four more years, fighting malaria and trying to sell the land ‑ without much success at either. Finally she packed all of her worldly possessions and her children in a covered wagon and traveled back to Pennsylvania. She lived in Washington County, Pa. for two years. Then she returned to the old farm in Union which she and John had left fourteen years before. She lived there, rejoined the Presbyterian Church, and raised her children. When her sons were grown she allowed them to divide the old farm and sell the homestead part. Sarah died in May 1864, much loved and respected by her neighbors.
(Presbyterian Church Session Records
David Wilson's History)
PETER H. THOMPSON
Peter Himebaugh Thompson, one of the oldest and best known citizens in Union City, died at his home on Fourth Avenue, at an early hour on Sunday May 26, 1894, after an illness of several months. Peter Thompson was born on what is now known as the Landsrath farm near Union City on October 24, 1830 and has lived here since. In 1858, he married Miss Sarah K. Culver and they had four children. Three of his children and his wife survive him. They are Edwin J. Thompson of Erie, May I. Thompson, and Rufus C. Thompson of Union City. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church and died in a full faith of future reward. He was a member of the Israel Lodge No. 50, Knights of Honor, of Union City. In this order he held an insurance policy on his life of $2,000. For nearly fifty years Peter H. Thompson has been identified more or less with the business interests of Union City, and was known as an honest, industrious man. His death is deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. His funeral took place at his home on Tuesday afternoon at 2 'clock. Rev. Dr. Hunt from the Presbyterian Church officiated, assisted by Rev. C.M. Conway, and his remains were tenderly laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery. Peace to his ashes.
(Union City Times, Thursday, May 29, 1894)
JAMES HERBERT THOMPSON
James Herbert Thompson, who was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. J.S. Thompson died at the home of his parents on East High Street on August 7, 1895. He would have been 22 years old on September 13, 1895 and was a most promising young man. The announcement of his death had been expected at any time for several weeks past, but when it came it caused widespread sorrow. James complained of not feeling well in the early part of last December, but continued to get down to the store and to meet his friends in their gatherings. Then around March 15, 1898, he became confined to the house most of the time was a great, though patient sufferer. Socially he was a general favorite among his large circle of young friends although he found the most pleasure and greatest enjoyment in the company of his parents and his only brother H.S. Thompson. His young friends all admired and loved him for his honesty of motives and nobility of character. His funeral will be held Friday afternoon, August 9, 1895 at 2 o'clock from the family residence on East High Street. Reverend William Grassie of Cambridge, a life long friend of the family and Dr. C.L. Hunt of the Presbyterian Church which Bert has been a consistent and active member since the early pastorate of Reverend E.P. Clark will conduct the services. Then six of his friends will carry his body to Evergreen Cemetery.
(Union City Times, August 9, 1895)
MRS. LYDIA THOMPSON
Mrs. Lydia Thompson who lived with her son, Charles J.Thompson south of this city, died very suddenly on Monday, September 30 at about ten o'clock of heart failure. She had been as well as usual until about a half hour before her death. She was 71 years old. Mrs. Thompson was a kind mother, an affectionate wife and an excellent neighbor and friend. Her sudden death is cause for general regret and sorrow.
Lydia Boyce Thompson was born near Springboro, Crawford County, on July 23, 1833. She was married to Andrew Thompson on January 9, 1859, and they had two children. Charles Thompson lives in Union Township and their daughter, Mrs. Edward Briggs, lives in Union City. She was for years a member of the Presbyterian Church of Union City and lived a good Christian life. Her funeral services were held from her home yesterday, Thursday afternoon at one o'clock. Reverend Horatio Carr officiated and she was buried in Evergreen Cemetery.
(Union City Times October 3, 1904)
JAMES S. THOMPSON (Andrew Thompson)
James S. Thompson was a great‑great grandson of Andrew Thompson, one of the early pioneers of Union Mills. He was born on the homestead of his ancestors in 1845, the son of Andrew and Sarah Smith Thompson. He was reared on the farm, and stayed there until he was 24 years old. Then he became a salesman in the hardware trade. In 1869, the firm of Thompson & Wilkins was formed in the drug trade, continuing until 1871, when Mr. Thompson purchased Wilkins' interest since which he has conducted the business alone. This is the oldest drug house in the city and has a large, well‑established trade. Mr. Thompson carries a complete stock of drugs, stationery, toilet articles, etc. James married Josephine Smith in May 1864, the daughter of John R. Smith of Erie county, and a member of a pioneer family of Wattsburg. Two children have blessed this union, Harley S. and J. Herbert. Mr. Thompson is a member of the Presbyterian Church, also of the I.O.O.F. and K. of H. He is an active business man and has a well established reputation.
JAMES THOMPSON
James Thompson died at the home of his son, Harley S.Thompson, about two o'clock last Tuesday morning, following an illness of long duration. He was almost totally blind during the last two years of his life, and was nearly 90 when he died. He was the son of Andrew and Sarah Smith Thompson, born in Union Township on January 1, 1838. His great grandfather, Andrew Thompson, of Scottish descent located in the colonies in the early days of the United States. James stayed on the family farm until he was 24, then he came to Union Mills and took a job in the hardware store of John Landsrath. On May 18, 1865, he married Miss Josephine Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John R. Smith, a member of another pioneer family in Wattsburg. They had two sons, Harley S. Thompson, and J. Bert Thompson who died on August 5, 1894. After Mrs. Thompson died on December 18, 1912, James made his home with his son Harley. In 1869, James Thompson formed a partnership with R.B.Wilkins, and they purchased the drug store of N.T. Humes. Two years later he purchased Mr. Wilkin's interested and continued the business alone until about 1896, when he took in his son Harley as a partner. The business continued under the firm name of J.S. Thompson and Son, until 1906, when the store was sold to William Gates. Then Mr. Thompson retired from active business life. Early in life James joined the Presbyterian Church and continued to be an active member until the last year or so when he was incapacitated because of illness and loss of sight. He served for many years as a trustee, secretary, and ruling elder of the Presbyterian Church and gave liberally of his money in the upkeep of the church. His pastor, Reverend W.I. Eaton, conducted private funeral services at his home on South Street. He was buried in Evergreen Cemetery beside his beloved wife and son.
(Union City Times, Thursday, September 22, 1927)
MISS MINA THOMPSON
Miss Mina Thompson was born in Union Township, April 28,1843. When she was fifteen she attended school in Waterford.She made many warm friends wherever she lived by her kind ways. She has resided at different times in St. Louis, Dubuque, Iowa; Brooklyn, New York and Montreal, Canada. For the past three or four years she has lived in Dakota. She will be buried beside her mother and brother in our cemetery where her grave can receive tribute from the hands of those who love her. She was an active member of the Episcopal Society of Union City and had an abiding faith in the teachings of that church. The funeral service will be held in the Presbyterian Church next Sabbath morning at eleven o'clock. Her obituary was printed in the Union City Times of Thursday, February 19, 1885.
WILLIAM BRACKEN
(A Twentieth Century History of Erie County Pennsylvania Volume III John Miller 1909 The Lewis Publishing Company: Chicago p. 263 ) William Thomas BRACKEN William was the oldest son of Thomas Bracken of Westmoreland County, Pa. and a Miss Kilmary. He was ten years old when his parents moved to Westmoreland County. Fora number of years after beginning life for himself he lived on a farm near Cannonsburg. He subsequently traded that for 400 acres of land at Fort Lebouef, near Union City, assuming its possession in 1808, when he settled there as a pioneer. He at once erected a two story log house, a very pretentious structure for those days. Settlers were then few and far between, there being but few openings in the wilderness thereabout, which was the home of wild animals of all kinds, and the hunting ground of the Indians.
During the War of 1812, he was called upon to serve as a soldier, but his son Thomas volunteered to go in his place as a substitute. In 1814 he took the contract to build the academy building at Waterford and at that time moved to a farm on the flats near that place, it having been reserved by the state to support the academy. In 1826 he returned to his own farm, where he subsequently resided until his death in 1850.
In 1846, he was left a widower by the death of his second wife, Sarah King. After this, he started with a team to visit his sons and other relatives, driving across the country and spending some time in the states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky.
In the spring of 1850, having made all of his intended visits, he started to drive to his home in Pennsylvania from Kentucky, and had proceeded but short distance when he died at the home of his niece in April 1850, near Shelbyville, Kentucky. He married first JANE THOMPSON and married second a widow, whose maiden name was Sarah King.
G.W. BRAKEMAN
History of Erie County, Pennsylvania Chicago : Warner, Beers & Co. 1884
G.W. Brakeman, dry goods, boots, shoes and carpets. He was born in Venango Co., Penn, in 1847, son of Lorenzo and Sara A. (THOMPSON) Brakeman, natives of Pennsylvania. The moved from Mercer County, Penna to York Co. Nebraska in 1870, where Mrs. Brakeman died. Brakeman came to Union City in 1870, engaging as a salesman until the spring of 1882, when he opened his present place of business in the Gillett Block. Possessing good business qualifications and carrying a good stock, he does a large and increasing business.
Mr.Brakeman married in Mercer Co. Penna, in 1870, Almira C. McCutcheon, a native of same. Three children blessed this union, all living. James D., Frank E. and William Brakeman. G.W. is connected with the M.E. Church and is a member of the I.O.O.F., K of H and Royal Templars. He is a highly esteemed business man of Union City.
CHARLES CAPRON SR.
Charles Capron, Sr. ‑ Born February 24, 1768. Died July 11,1824. He was born in Marlboro, Cheshire County, New Hampshire. He bought a farm in Marlboro in 1795, which he sold in 1804 and moved to Reading, Windsor County, Vt. He was"warned out" at Reading, 1805 and admitted a "Freeman" of Reading in 1808. He came to Erie County, Pa. in 1819 with his wife and his son, Charles Capron, Jr. Inscription, Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa. Cheney Records. Not on 1973 List. (History of Marlborough, Cheshire County, N.H., Charles A.Bemis, Boston 1881. U.S. Census of 1800 for Cheshire County,N.H.; U.S. Census of 1810 for Reading, Windsor County, Vt. VR's for Roxbury and for Brookline, Mass.; Deeds ‑ CheshireCounty N.H. and Windsor County, VT; Town Records, Reading,VT; Tax Records for Marborough, Cheshire County, N.H. History of Erie County, PA., Warner, Beers & Company, Chicago, 1884. ) Cheney Records
SARAH WHITMORE CAPRON
Sarah Whitmore Capron was born around 1770. She married Charles Capron on August 20, 1792 at Roxbury, Massachusetts‑both shown as "of Brookline." They had one son and six daughters listed in the US Census of 1810 for Reading, VT. Six children were named in the 1806 "Warning Out," not necessarily in order of birth. She died in Erie County, PA after 1819. (Sources same as Charles Capron.)
CHARLES CAPRON, JR.
Charles Capron, Jr. was born in 1797 and died August 5, 1874. He was born in Marlboro, Cheshire County, NH and moved to Reading, Windsor County, VT with his parents in 1805. In 1819 he moved to Erie, County, Pa., "bringing his parents with him." Married Catherine‑‑‑‑, who died after 1850. Married widow Sarah March Foster. (Sources same as Charles Capron)
FERDINAND CARROLL
(Nelson's Biographical Dictionary, p. 880)
Ferdinand Carroll was born in 1751 in the northern part of Ireland. He was the youngest of a large family of children, and when he was still a young boy was sent to live with a wealthy uncle in London. On his journey, a fellow traveler stole his valise, which held all of his clothes except the ones he was wearing. Ferdinand had too much pride to face his uncle in a destitute condition, so he apprenticed himself to a weaver. He stayed there for seven years at his trade.
When he was 24 years old, Ferdinand married Isabella Johnstone, and they became the parents of twelve children, six sons and six daughters. After the two oldest sons came of age, they decided to come to America. Ferdinand, unwilling to part with his children, decided to bring the entire family to America. He sold his life lease in the land he held for enough to pay the expenses of the family, and in the spring of 1801, they embarked from Dublin to New York in an old war vessel.
Ferdinand, his wife Isabella, and their nine living children survived the trip to America. The oldest child, Samuel, was 25 years old, and the youngest, Isabella was two years old. She died of measles during the voyage and was buried at sea. The voyage was a slow and tedious one and after eight weary weeks, the passengers landed at New Castle, Delaware instead of New York. Ferdinand relieved the monotony of the trip by playing his violin. Although he was an excellent musician, the passengers were so weary of the voyage that they cheered when land was sighted. They were glad to escape the captain who was an arrogant tyrant and was arrested when the ship arrived in America.
Soon after the ship docked, Ferdinand set out with his family for Chilicothe, Ohio, and had gotten as far as Pittsburgh, when he heard that fever and ague were raging in Chilicothe. He decided not to go there after all. The Holland Land Company offered 100 acres free for making a settlement and staying five years on a 400 acre tract of land, and this offer captured Ferdinand's attention. He listened further and discovered that such a tract was located on the head waters of French Creek, a tributary of the Allegheny River.
Ferdinand and his two oldest sons, Samuel and George, started up the Allegheny River to Franklin. They had a hard time deciding what part of the country to settle in. Finally Ferdinand decided to settle the matter by chance. He put a stick on end, as near perpendicular as possible, and said he would go whichever way it fell. It fell towards Meadville and he immediately set out for Meadville. After arriving at Meadville, Ferdinand was directed to Union Township. He arrived in Union and purchased the right of settlement and improvements on tract 139 in the southwest of Union Township from Andrew Halsey. The price was $30 in gold.
Ferdinand returned to Pittsburgh for his family and household goods. The family and their household goods rode on horseback from Pittsburgh, and in time were installed in their one story shanty, built of poles. The Carrolls called their holdings "Castle Halsey." In the fall of 1801, Ferdinand completed the settle of tract 139 and secured a clear deed to 100 acres, which he left to his youngest son, William. Ferdinand was 50 years old on arriving at "Castle Halsey," and his family consisted of his wife and nine living children: Samuel, George, Phoebe, Jane, Betsey, Mary, James, Thomas and William.
In 1809, Ferdinand left his farm and moved to the Moravian grant near what was later called LeBoeuf Station. Here he rented a place for a term of years, but it didn't prove to be profitable. He returned to his own farm, which in the meantime had grown up with a heavy second growth of timber. In early times the small timber was cut away, and the large timber girdled and left standing. When Ferdinand returned, he found the large dead trees had blown down among the young timber, making it more difficult to clear than the first time he had done it. But he set to work with a will, and the virgin forest gave way under the steady strokes of his axe to cleared meadow land.
Ferdinand died on February 1, 1831, at the age of 80 years, from a cancer of the lip. His wife, Isabella, died in September 1839 at the age of 70 years. He was one of the first settlers in Union Township, but if he came to America from Ireland in the year 1801 and some of the children were grown, it is not likely he was Revolutionary War Veteran.
His children were: Samuel. Samuel was 25 when the family came to America. He settled on French Creek in the Middleton settlement and died January 28, 1833, at the age of 60. He had no children.
Isabella. She was two when the family set sail. She died of the measles during the voyage and was buried at sea.
George. George settled on Tract 147, but he family wasn't contented to live in the woods, so he bought a farm about two and a half miles below Union City on the creek. He had seven children: John, James, Mary, Isabella, Margaret and Hannah. John lived near the old homestead. He was the father of eight children: Frank, Sophia, John, Charles, Maria, Albert and Alfred (twins) and Emma.
James moved to Iowa. He could have been the father of the Ferdinand Carroll who married Lorinda or Lucilla Thompson who died in the well.
Pheobe. Married David Middleton of Waterford Township,Pennsylvania.
Jane. Married Jonathan Carroll of Mercer County, Pennsylvania. Betsey.‑ Married William Boardman.
(From the Union City Times of February 27, 1879.) WILLIAM BOARDMAN of Union City is over eighty years old. He was born in Washington Township in Erie County and was among the first, if not the very first white child born in the county. Afer his birth, his father moved to Waterford and opened a tannery for a while. During the War of 1812, William's father took his wife and six children, of which William was the oldest, down the river to Cincinnati. They sailed across the country to the Anfianize, a branch of the Maumee River, where Mr. Boardman built or procured a boat in which he embarked with his family. The season was far advanced and in the wilderness his boat became fastened up in the ice where he had to remain until spring. William's father hadn't anticipated this predicament, so the family ran out of provisions and would probably have starved to death had they not captured a hog which had escaped from the Commissary Department of General Harrisons army during his campaign of 1813. Spring came at last, the ice went out of the river, and the Boardmans came down to Lake Erie, then to Cleveland and through the country back to Waterford. After that, Mr. Boardman died and it fell to William to care for his family.
Care for his family William did, but he had early developed a yearning to sail the waters. He made many trips down French Creek and the Allegheny river with boats carrying lumber, potatoes, etc. The most memorable of his trips was the one he made in the winter of 1829. He heard that Cherry lumber was bringing the fabulous price of $50 per thousand feet at New Orleans, when it was only worth $6 or $7 at Waterford. He collected three or four boatloads at French Creek bridge. In the fall of 1829 he and his brother Robert and eleven others formed a crew of thirteen choice young men, all noted for their strength and hardihood. They ran his lumber to New Orleans. At New Orleans he found the price high for lumber, but the demand limited, so he dismissed all of his hands, including Nathaniel Wilson, but two, and the others came back up the river in steam boats. The two who stayed, William Smith and John Wilson, hired to the captain of a schooner and worked their passage round to New York. This took them forty days and after that they walked home. After waiting until John sold his lumber and boats for about $700, William had his money stolen from him and returned home poor. Some time after he returned he married Miss Betsy Carroll and raised a family. For many years he lived in Union, farming, attending grist mill and saw mill and performing duty in township offices when called upon. OR, Betsey married John Richards of Brady's Bend, Pennsylvania.??
Mary. Never married.
James. Settled near the west line of Union township, where he died at the age of 64 years. He was the father of 15 children.
Thomas. Veteran of the War of 1812. Settled near the west line of Union Township and married Elizabeth Mulvin.He was the father of nine children. Died at the age of 64 years. Thomas's daughter Isabella, married Josiah Shreve, son of Richard Shreve Jr. and Margaret Shreve, among the first settlers of Union Township. They married January 6, 1847 and had three children. Sidney A. was the wife of J.P. Wilkins. George R. died and Almeda E. married O.B. Sherwood.
Wesley, the oldest son of Thomas settled on a farm his father gave him. He married Phoebe Organ and they had seven children. Wesley died in 1879 at age 64.
Jonathan M.Carroll was Wesley and Phoebe's fourth son. He was born on the old homestead on October 2, 1855. Jonathan was reared and educated at his birth place and stayed at home until he was 24. In 1889 he took possession of his farm of 60 acres which his father had willed to him. He married Miss Olive Barnes, daughter of Levi and Mary Shelmandine Barnes, on November 15, 1889. They had two children, Clarence and Winifred. He was a Republican and served his township as road commissioner and school director. His family were members of the Methodist Church.
Fletcher S. Carroll was the fifth son of Wesley and Phoebe. He was born at the homestead on November 27, 1858. He was reared in LeBoeuf Township and educated in the public schools there and at the Waterford Academy. After completing his education he returned home and followed farming. He inherited the homestead after his father died, which consisted of 100 acres of well cultivated land, twenty five acres being part of his grandfather's (Thomas Carroll) estate. In 1884 he began selling milk in Union City, and rapidly built up a substantial trade. He married Miss Alice, daughter of Levi C. and Mary Shelmadine Barnes, on December 23, 1872. They had three children: Wayne, Alta May and Mabel.
O.W. Carroll, tailor and clothier, of Union City, is the next son in order of birth of Wesley and Phoebe Carroll. He was born July 6, 1860, and reared at his birthplace and educated at the public schools and Waterford Academy. After completing his education, he taught school for two years and then to Union City and purchased the furniture business of A.O.Gillette which he conducted for two years. He sold out after two years, and after that he spent eighteen months trading throughout the Western States and Mexico. In 1883 he returned to Union City and opened a clothing business with Van Dusen, the firm. He continued that business until 1890 when he sold out and went into partnership with R.R. Lewis, under the firm name of Lewis & Carroll. They conduct a first class merchant tailoring establishment. On September 15,1886, O.W. married Jennie, daughter of David Carroll of Cleveland, Ohio. They had four children: Elsie, Rees, Clifford and Clifton (twins). The family are members of the Methodist Church.
William‑He was the youngest son of Ferdinand Carroll. He was given the old homestead on Tract 159, and married Hannah Slouson in 1820. They had ten children: James, Lucy, Mary A., Lucilla, Esther, Charles S., fatally wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, December 13, 1862, and died three days later. William's son David married Miss H. Coventry in 1854 and owned part of the old original tract. They had seven children: Ella, Jennie, Rosa, Etta, Fred, Hannah and George. William's son, George W., owned a greater part of the old homestead obtained from the Holland Land Company for settlement of tract 159. In 1871, George W. started a cheese factory, which ran satisfactorily . In 1890, a post office was established and the name of Ferdinand chosen in honor of the first settler of the tract. George W. married Miss Susan A. Barnes, daughter of Levi Barnes in 1863. Levi Barnes was one of the pioneers who came from the east in 1820 and settled south of tract 159 where he died at 82 years old age. She was a woman of rare energy and business ability.
William's son, Jonathan H. lived on part of the homestead. He married Antoinette Myers in 1851. They had three sons and one daughter. They were : J. Burr, C. Eddie, Lotta, and Lavidia.
William's daughter Esther, married G.W. Brooks. They had two sons, Glenni who died at 12 and George Cliton who died at 16. William's daughter, Eliza Jane married S.B. Brooks. They had seven sons and two daughters. They were: Ashley J., Cassius, Charles S., Archibald, Elverdo C., William, George G., Phoebe and Ruth.
Thomas's son, Samuel J. lived in Bloomfield, Crawford, County, Pa
Jonathan G., the next younger son Thomas, lived on a part of the old homestead. He had two children, Solomon and Rose. Thomas's daughters were: Jane, Isabella, who married Josiah Shreve, and Margaret.
DAVISON
Catherine A. Barr was born in Woodcock Township in Crawford County, June 22, 1831. She spent her girlhood there and was educated in the district school. Early in life she became a Christian and in 1852 joined the Reformed Church at Saegertown. On September 22, 1853 she married Garret Davison, and they had four children. Their children were John who died when he was thirteen; Addie O., now Mrs. A.L. Wales of Corry; Laura E., now Mrs. William Dunmeyer of Union City, and C.G. Davison, of Union City. On September 22, 1864, Garret Davison died in Andersonville prison. Mrs. Davison married E.L. Morton on April 18, 1872 and they at once moved to Union City where Mr. Morton engaged in the mercantile business. He continued at that until he died on September 22nd, 1864. Since that time Mrs.Morton remained a resident of Union City and lived with her daughter, Mrs. William Dunmeyer. She was a most excellent woman, endearing herself to all with whom she had been acquainted, and her death on January 12, 1893, is deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and relatives. From the time she came to Union City she became a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church and led a consistent Christian life. Her funeral services were held from the residence of William Dunmeyer and she was buried in Evergreen cemetery.
MATTHEW GRAY
Matthew Gray died in 1814, and his probably buried on his farm on the Concord Road in Union Township. He was one of the first settlers in the Township. With his brother William and sister Rachel, he came to Union Township about 1803 from Huntington County. Matthew Gray Jr. served in the 4th class of Andrew Bogg's Company of the 4th Battalion of Lancaster County Militia (Pa Archives, 5th Series Vol 7, Pages 444‑445.
William Gray served in the 1st class of the same regiment. Matthew Gray Sr. also served in these companies.
JOHN G. GRAY
Twentieth Century History of Erie County, Pa. Volume III John Miller 1909 The Lewis Publishing Company ‑ Chicago p. 603 John G. Gray is a worthy and prosperous farmer of Wayne Township, Erie County, where he owns and operates a farm of 100 acres, a portion of which is devoted to the raising of general stock and poultry and another part to the breeding of fancy varieties of stock. Mr. Gray was born July 21, 1845, and is a native of Wayne Township, where he was reared and educated, finishing his schooling at Waterford Academy. In 1864 he joined the Union Army as a member of the 12th PVI., serving therein for three years and passing uninjured through various important battles. He was a scout under"Little Phil" (Sheridan) in the Shenandoah Valley about eight months. He was honorably discharged on July 24, 1865. After the war he married Mrs. Jane Smith. They had a daughter, Mary A. Gray.
Mr. Gray has not always confined himself to farming. For over 25 years he was a resident of Erie, during which period he held the office of councilman and was a citizen of influence. Since returning to Wayne Township he has resumed agricultural pursuits, but has taken no part in public or political affairs. For many years he has been identified with the G.A.R. and is an honored member of Post No. 67. (Strong Vincent Post ‑ Erie) Mr. Gray is the son of Matthew A. and Esther Smith Gray, the former being born on the Juniata River in Pennsylvania in 1796. Both he and his brother James were soldiers in the War of 1812. It is claimed that James was the strongest man in Harrison's Army and that one of the tests which he successfully met was the lifting of a cannon from the ground by main strength of hands and arms. The children born to Mr.and Mrs. Matthew Gray were: William C. (deceased), Annie, Lavinia and Robert (both deceased) Jane, Susanna (deceased) ,Melissa, Dr. T.J. Gray; John G. and Henry M. Matthew A. Gray died on May 16, 1877 at the age of 81 years and Esther died in 1902 at the age of 99 years. The paternal grandfather, William Gray, in 1810, migrated from the family homestead on the Juniata river, settling at Waterford in Erie County. There he took up about 40 acres of land which was divided among his children in later years. By his marriage to Miss Allison, he became the father of William, James, Matthew, Robert, John, Sally, Annie and Mrs. F. Gray. Mr. Gray is a Republican.
MICHAEL HARE
Michael Hare was born in Armaugh County, Ireland on June 10, 1727. He was educated for the priesthood or at least attended St. Patrick's Seminary near his birthplace. He acquired some education and was a skilled weaver. After he came to America he stopped first near Philadelphia and then moved northwest with the tide of migration to Northumberland County. He served in the French and Indian War under George Washington. He was the one who helped hold back the Indians who were bent on exterminating Braddock's English regulars to the last man. At this point he was 28 years old, and was wounded. Two years later, when he was 30, Michael saw the English triumph over the French, taking over Fort Duquesne and leaving the Ohio valley.
Then Indian troubles broke out under Pontiac. He fought in the battle of Bushy Run, serving under Colonel Henry Bouquet who was pressing forward to relieve Captain Ecuyver,then besieged in Fort Pitt. Bouquet and Ecuyver were Swiss soldiers of fortune serving the English crown in America. At Bushy Run eight years after the humiliation of Braddock, the Indians tried to trick Bouquet's forces into a similar ambush, but Bouquet tricked them and disastrously defeated them. The siege of Fort Pitt, earlier Fort Duquesne under the French, was raised by the arrival of Bouquet's forces. Michael was there. During the Revolutionary War, Michael Hare enlisted in Northumberland County when enlistments were for just a few months. But Michael kept reenlisting and served practically continuously through the war. He was in the battle of Long Island, and was detached to serve under Anthony Wayne in the attack on Stony Point. He also served under Colonel Broadhead.
The archives of Pennsylvania reveal that Michael Hare was a Ranger from Westmoreland county in 1777, a private in 1780,and later a sergeant in the Pennsylvania volunteers. He was an Indian captive in 1782. Taken to Detroit as a prisoner and then to Quebec, he was exchanged in November 1782, being sent by sea to Philadelphia.
Michael Hare served as an Indian interpreter and had a vast knowledge of their habits and customs that stood him in good stead more than once in his long life. In 1781, he found himself in the hands of the Indians when Colonel Crawford made an ill fated expedition against them. Colonel Crawford was burned at the stake by the Indians, but Simon Girty, the "renegade white," may have been liked Michael Hare and influenced the Indians to spare him. He did not do this for Colonel Crawford. Another ill fated Indian expedition Michael was involved in was in 1782 when he served in Colonel Archibald Lechrey's company that was ambushed at the mouth of the Great Miami River by the Indian leader Brant and Simon Girty. Hare was one of the survivors of the 100, 42 having been killed. Lochrey's outfit was trying to make the way westward to join the forces of George Rogers Clark. Again in 1791, Hare was part of General Arthur St.Clair's expedition against the Indians. After scalping Michael on the field of battle in Parke County, Ohio, the Indians left him for dead. He was 64 years old at the time. But instead of dying, Michael was befriended by an Indian woman. She guided him all the way across present day Ohio into Westmoreland county where he lived at the time. She hid him by day piling branches and leaves over him, while she kept a look out from a tree nearby. He was once hidden underneath a log, which Indians in their search, had mounted, looking around. A key to his contact with the Indian woman and all of the Indians in general, probably was the fact he had served as an interpreter.
Michael Hare and his family came to Erie County about 1796 or 1797 and settled near a little stream known as Hare's Creek, north of Corry. His cabin was near a clump of apple trees. David Wilson, in his History of Erie County, says that Michael Hare "was a weaver by trade, and if any of the neighbors had a piece of fancy work that ordinary weavers could not do, such as double coverlets or bagging of double thicknesses twilled on one side and plain on the other, if they would send for Mr. Hare, he would go, be it far or near, and rig up their loom, and show them how to weave it and charge, the moderate sum of two dollars."
After moving from Hare Creek, the Hare family settled at Oak Hill between Waterford and Union City. When he was 100 years old, Michael Hare taught school, first in his cabin,and afterward in a school house in the vicinity. Mrs.Cynthia Ensworth, historian of Waterford, said, "Because of his frightful scalp wound, he wore a cap not only during school hours but at all times. He sat close to the fireplace because of poor circulation, keeping one side of his face turned toward the fire." Mrs. Velma Alexander Mando, one of his descendants who researched his life, said that he was short, solidly built, and may have weighted about 170 pounds in the prime of his life. She said he favored his scalp wound by leaning his head toward the fire for comfort. Michael Hare married Elizabeth, twenty two years younger than he was, and they had thirteen children. He died March 3, 1842, at the age of 115 years and 8 months and 22 days. Elizabeth died April 10, 1840, at age 90 years.
According to a story in the Erie Times of Sunday July 1, 1951, Michael and Elizabeth and Captain Robert King and his family had earlier been buried in a cemetery located in the west section of Waterford Borough. Then the remains of Michael Hare and his wife were moved to Evergreen cemetery many years ago. " Michael Hare is buried in the soldier's plot and nearby is the grave, of another Revolutionary soldier, Captain Robert King,"who departed this life, December 7, 1826, aged 69 years."Near are other markers of soldiers who served to perpetuate the nation which Hare and King fought to establish."
MULVIN
The first generations of Mulvins. Belle was the daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Mulvin) Carroll. Elizabeth Mulvin married Thomas Carroll. Belle married Josiah Shreve, son of Richard Shreve Jr. and Margaret on January 6, 1847.
William Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City William Mulvin/who died April 22nd/1848 aged 92 years.
Wife: Margaret, q.v. Son: William, Jr., q.v. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings
William Mulvin, Jr. Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City Memorial of/William Mulvin/Junior who died Feb. 16th/ D. 1828, aged 22 years
There is a calm for those who weep,/ rest for weary pilgrims found;/ And while the mouldering ashes sleep/Low in the ground;/The soul, of origin divine,/God's glorious image freed from clay,/ In heaven's eternal shore shall shine/A star of day. Cheney Records
1973 Cemetery Readings Elisabeth Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa. Memorial of/Elisabeth Mulvin/Consort of/Robert Mulvin./Who died March 2? A.D. 1830. Aged 30 years,/Depart my friends, dry up your tears/ We'll meet again when Christ appears,/Therefore be ye also ready: for in/such an hour as ye think not, The/Son of Man Cometh. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings
Margaret Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa. Memorial of/Margaret, Wife of/William Mulvin/ died June 17, 1850/ Aged 89 years. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings Robert Mulvin Inscription, Old Thompson Cemetery, Union City, Pa.: Robert/Mulvin/ Mar. 12, 1869/Aged 72 years. Cheney Records 1973 Cemetery Readings
HENRY MULVIN
(Obituary from Union City Times, June 1930)
Henry Mulvin was born June 2, 1846 and was the seventh in the family of twelve children of Robert and Mary Middleton Mulvin, who were natives of Ireland. He was reared and educated in Union and Concord Townships and when he was a boy of 15, enlisted in Col. L. 12th Pennsylvania Cavalry under Captain Tourtellott. He participated in many hard fought battles, and was captured at Winchester, Va. on June 13, 1863. After his capture he was taken to Libby prison where he was kept one month and then taken to Belle Island where he was kept four months. After returning from the war he followed the trade of mason, building extensively. On June 2, 1868 he married Abbie, the youngest daughter of George W. and Lusetta Brooks. They had six children. He died at the home of his son, Charles of Wayne Township, on June 7, 1930. Henry Mulvin was a member of the United Brethren Church at Wayne Valley for forty years. He was buried in Beaverdam Cemetery.
RANGE
Thursday, September 4, 1884
Some of Nancy Range's heirs settled near Mill Village.
SMILEY
JANE ELIZA SMIlEY
Jane/Eliza/Wife of/Moses Smiley/died/ Dec.‑‑‑‑1836 Age 23 yrs. God my redeemer/And ever from the skies/Look down and watch/ es all my dust/Till he shall bid it rise. 1973 Cemetery Readings
(Nelson's Biographical. p. 878. says that Jane is Jane Thompson . A daughter named Jane survived her. Jane Smiley married M.B. Chamberlin. possibly a daughter of Andrew? She doesn't appear anywhere in Abel's line???)
JAMES SMILEY
James Smiley. Father of Moses Smiley. James was a soldier in the War of 1812, who served under General Harrison. He died in Union City, Pa. on January 13, 1840. Cheney Records. Buried in Waterford Cemetery. He was the grandfather of Dallas G. Smiley, a merchant in Union City. James was a soldier in the war of 1812, serving under General Harrison. After the War, James came to Union City and operated the first gristmill in the town.
DAVID WILSON
David Wilson was born on the family homestead in Union Township on March 20, 1812, a son of Hugh and Hannah Wilson, early pioneers in the area. His father, Hugh Wilson, was born October 16, 1773 in County Down Ireland and traveled to Wilmington, Delaware in 1792. Two years later in 1794 he joined General George Washington on his way to squash the Whiskey Rebellion at Pittsburgh. High married Hannah Frampton, who was born July 22, 1774 in Mifflin County, Pa. Hugh and Hannah settled in Erie County, after acquiring 200 acres of land from the Holland Land Company and 400 acres of state lands.
In 1798, Hugh brought Hannah 200 miles through the wilderness to her new home in Union Township. They had nine children, including David, born in Union Township. The Wilsons joined the Presbyterian Church at Union under Reverend Amos Chase in 1820. David Wilson was brought up in the wilderness with no educational advantages, but he began to study surveying. In 1838 he acquired a practical knowledge of his profession as axman with the surveyors of the Pennsylvania and Erie Railroad. Later, the Holland Land Company hired him to survey tracts in Erie and Crawford Counties. By teaching school through the winters he earned enough money to pay for his farm at $2.50 an acre. He cleared the land and lived on it from 1839 until his death.
On November 21, 1839 he married Eliza Jane Thompson, who was born at St. Charles, Missouri on February 23, 1821. Their children were Hugh, Sarah, Hannah, and Lee. The Wilsons joined the Presbyterian Church early in their lives and David served as elder and clerk of the session for many years. On March 18, 1876 Mrs. Eliza Jane Wilson departed this life being fifty‑five years of age and having been a consistent member of this particular church for forty‑five years. Written by her husband, David Wilson, clerk, by order of the session of the church. In 1850 David was elected and served for three years as county surveyor. He surveyed and laid out Evergreen Cemetery in Union City and through the years held various offices of trust, including Auditor and Justice of the Peace of Union Township for twenty years. His sons inherited his instruments and followed his surveying profession.
(Presbyterian Church Session Records Union City Times)
EVERSON
Thursday August 16, 1888 Union City Times
An Old Legal Document On Saturday last, Mr. Charles Bacon bought of Mrs. W.T.Everson, her farm and which is located in Amity Township, and which is one of the best farms in Erie County, paying $8,000 for it. When a deed was made and handed to Mr. Bacon, he was also given an old soldier's deed for the same piece of land, made to Matthew Smith by the Supreme Executive Council of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on the 13th day of August 1787. The deed was executed 101 years ago last Monday. The deed is made on parchment and is in an excellent state of preservation. At that time this was Westmoreland County. During all that time there has never been anything entered against this piece of land. The old deed is valuable as a keepsake. History of Erie County, Volume II, 1884. p. 171.
W.T. EVERSON
W.T. Everson of Union City. b. 1827 in Morovia, New Jersey. His parents were William and Catharine Thompson of New Jersey. He was the father of W.E. Everson. W.E. Everson married Belle Fuller, daughter of Rulaf Fuller. Rulaf's other daughter, Clara, married A.F. Young. A.F. Young was the father of Rulaf Young and the grandfather of Marshal Young of Young Hardware, Union City.