Richardson County Archives – Nebraska Genealogy

Biography of John Findlay

John Findlay (b. 1865) was a prominent stockman and farmer in Porter Precinct, Richardson County, Nebraska. Born in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, he moved to Nebraska with his family in 1875. His father, Hiram Findlay, initially settled in Ohio Precinct before purchasing and developing 160 acres in Porter Precinct. John began farming independently at age 23, eventually acquiring and improving his farm, where he also bred Duroc-Jersey hogs. In 1891, he married Laura Gunnison, and they had five children. The Findlay family were active members of the Lutheran Church, and John was affiliated with the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

Biography of August B. Becker

August B. Becker (b. 1852), a prominent landowner and farmer in Arago Precinct, Richardson County, Nebraska, was born in Baden, Germany. He emigrated to the United States in 1876, eventually settling in Richardson County. Becker initially worked as a farmhand before purchasing his own land in 1884. Over the years, he expanded his holdings to more than 300 acres, becoming known for his well-kept farm and successful Shorthorn cattle breeding. In 1879, he married Lydia Sholl, and they had thirteen children. The Becker family were active members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, contributing to their community’s social and civic life.

Biography of Richard C. James

Richard C. James (b. 1879), a prominent attorney in Falls City, Nebraska, served as county attorney for Richardson County and was a veteran of the Spanish-American War. Born in Maretburg, Kentucky, he was orphaned at age three and raised by his uncle in Nebraska. After working his way through school, James graduated from the University of Nebraska with a law degree in 1904. He first practiced law in Humboldt before being elected county attorney and relocating to Falls City. A dedicated Democrat, James was known for his strict law enforcement, particularly against liquor law violations. He married Leona Garrett Lyon in 1917.

Biography of Albert Ebel of Arago

Albert Ebel (b. 1873) was a notable farmer in Arago Precinct, Richardson County, Nebraska. Born in St. Joseph, Missouri, he was the son of German immigrant Henry Ebel and Swiss-born Elizabeth Kohler, both pioneers of Richardson County. Albert grew up on the family farm in Jefferson Precinct, later acquiring a 200-acre farm in Arago in 1907. A Republican, he served as precinct treasurer, clerk, and school board member. In 1899, he married Mary Hunker, and they had five children. The Ebels were active members of the Lutheran church and their local community.

Biography of Charles Loree

Charles Loree (1852-1916), a prominent official and settler of Richardson County, Nebraska, was born in Lebanon, Ohio. Moving to Nebraska in 1866, he transitioned from farming to various official roles, including county clerk, register of deeds, and clerk of the district court, a position he held for fourteen terms. Known for his geniality and deep knowledge of county affairs, Loree’s career spanned over 40 years, contributing significantly to the county’s development. A Democrat, he was also active in state politics and involved in numerous fraternal organizations. He married Emelie Lange in 1882.

Biography of Joseph Ogle

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

Joseph Ogle, born in Fulton County, Illinois, in 1849, became a prominent farmer and stockman in Richardson County, Nebraska, after settling there in 1873. Starting with limited resources, Ogle developed a successful 320-acre farm in Grant Precinct, near Dawson. Known for his diligence and skill, Ogle built a thriving homestead, including a fine two-story residence constructed in 1903. He married Lourette Swisegood in 1874, and together they raised seven children. Active in the community, Ogle served on the school board and played a significant role in local agricultural development.

Biography of Henry A. Scott

Henry A. Scott, a prominent retired merchant in Humboldt, Nebraska, was born in Hatfield, Massachusetts, on January 1, 1844. A Civil War veteran, he served in the 3rd Iowa Infantry and endured imprisonment in Southern camps before resettling in Richardson County in 1867. After farming his homestead, Scott moved to Humboldt in 1874, becoming a successful hardware merchant. He later co-owned Scott and Skalak, a thriving business for 15 years. Scott and his wife, Margaret Smith, were active in civic and social life. They traveled extensively and enjoyed their later years in Humboldt, where they built a comfortable home.

Biography of Daniel D. Davis

Daniel D. Davis, a prominent agriculturist and stock raiser in Nemaha County, Nebraska, was born on July 21, 1833, in Carmarthenshire, Wales. The son of David and Maria Daniels Davis, he emigrated to the U.S. in 1856 with his wife, Rachel, and her family. After initially settling in Wisconsin, Davis moved to Nemaha County in 1863, where he expanded his farming operations and became a significant landowner. The couple had nine children. Davis was active in public service, including two decades as a justice of the peace. Rachel passed away in 1890.

Biography of Captain Absalom M. Enoch

Absalom M. Enoch, a prominent figure in Humboldt, Richardson County, Nebraska, was born on September 18, 1825, in Miami County, Ohio. Moving to Nebraska in 1869, Enoch became a well-respected community member. He served as a captain in the Civil War with the Ninth Minnesota Infantry, participating in significant battles and conflicts with the Sioux Indians. After the war, he settled in Humboldt, where he engaged in farming and hotel-keeping, notably running the Enoch House for two decades. Enoch married twice, first to Elizabeth Caulfield and later to Anna Brickey. He remains active in his community, having served in various civic roles.

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.