Gage County Archives – Page 2 of 2

Biography of Lieutenant Joseph K. Pittman

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

Lieutenant Joseph K. Pittman, born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, in 1840, served in the Third Maryland Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, rising to the rank of first lieutenant. After the war, he moved to Illinois in 1865, then to Kansas in 1878, and finally settled in Gage County, Nebraska, in 1888. Married to Mary F. Bower in 1868, the couple had twelve children, eleven of whom survived to adulthood. A dedicated farmer and respected community member, Pittman was active in the G.A.R. and the Masonic order, and he and his wife were members of the Baptist church.

Biography of Daniel Goodman

Daniel Goodman, born in 1845 in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, was a notable farmer and stock-raiser in Gage County, Nebraska. A Civil War veteran, he served bravely with the 49th Pennsylvania Infantry. After initially settling in Illinois post-war, he moved to Nebraska in 1874, later establishing himself in Gage County. Married to Emma Reed in 1881, the couple had one daughter, Essie, who married Oscar Vanderpool. Goodman was a respected community member, a staunch Republican, and affiliated with the G.A.R. at Adams. He owned 85 acres of land and was well-regarded for his business acumen and social qualities.

Biography of Henrick L. Watson

Henrick L. Watson, born May 2, 1845, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, was a prominent blacksmith and repair shop owner in Adams, Nebraska. He settled in Adams 23 years ago, having worked in his trade for 40 years. Watson served briefly in the Civil War with the 161st Ohio Infantry. He gained expertise as an iron and steel worker in Denison, Ohio, and later worked in Illinois and other states before moving to Nebraska. Married to Jennie Shaw in 1887, they had six children. Watson was a Republican and active in the Presbyterian church, known for his community contributions and successful business.

Biographical and Genealogical History of Southeastern Nebraska

This compilation, titled “A Biographical and Genealogical History of Southeastern Nebraska,” presents 457 biographies of individuals who have significantly contributed to the region’s development. Published in a two-volume set by the Lewis Publishing Company, the work aims to provide a reliable historical account through the lens of personal achievements and contributions.

Biography of Thomas J. Stockman

Thomas J. Stockman, born April 28, 1838, near Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana, was a well-known businessman in Adams, Nebraska. Along with his son Samuel, he operated the Adams livery and sales stables and served as a land agent. A Civil War veteran, Stockman enlisted in 1863 in the Nebraska Cavalry and served on the frontier. After various relocations, he settled in Gage County, Nebraska, in 1887. He married Mary Jane McKibben in 1859, and they had seven children. Stockman was respected for his business acumen and community contributions.

Biography of Daniel Confer

Daniel Confer, born March 3, 1838, in Hocking County, Ohio, was a respected farmer and citizen of Adams Township, Gage County, Nebraska, residing there from 1884. A Civil War veteran, he served in the Thirty-fourth Indiana Infantry and participated in significant battles, including the siege of Vicksburg. After the war, Confer moved to Nebraska, where he became a successful farmer and community member. He married Mary L. Robb in 1864, and they had six children. Confer was active in the Grand Army of the Republic and a member of the United Brethren Church, known for his strong character and community contributions.

Biography of Samuel B. Dooley

Samuel B. Dooley, born in 1836 in Boone County, Indiana, was a Civil War veteran and a respected resident of Beatrice, Nebraska. He enlisted in the 14th Illinois Volunteer Infantry in 1861 and served under General Grant and General Sherman, participating in major campaigns like Shiloh and the March to the Sea. Captured in 1864, he endured six months in Andersonville prison. After the war, Dooley settled in Beatrice in 1882 and became active in the mercantile business. A dedicated member of the G.A.R., he also served as commander of Rawlins Post No. 35 and was active in local civic and religious life.