Statewide

Biography of William White of Beatrice

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

William White, a long-time resident of Beatrice, Nebraska, was born on May 8, 1845, in Greene County, Tennessee. He hailed from an esteemed southern family; his father, Abraham White, and mother, Nancy Jennings, were both Tennessee natives. During the Civil War, William enlisted in Company G, Fourth East Tennessee Volunteer Infantry on November 7, 1862, and served bravely under Colonel Patterson and Captain West. Post-war, he managed the family farm until 1874 before moving to Illinois and then to Nebraska. William settled in Beatrice after a few years in Pawnee City and successfully ran a hotel. He suffered from chronic rheumatism due to wartime diseases. William married Mary J. White in 1866, and they had three children: Lydia, Josie, and Ella Hill.

Biography of Thomas B. Skeen of Auburn

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

Thomas B. Skeen, born January 19, 1838, in Buchanan County, Missouri, is one of Nemaha County, Nebraska’s oldest residents. His family, originating from England and later Scotland, emigrated to America, with his father, Alexander D. Skeen, settling in Nebraska in 1854. Thomas experienced pioneer life, including interactions with Native Americans and participating in the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. He married Eunice Harger in 1860, and they had several children. Thomas became a successful freighter and landowner, eventually operating a flouring mill and engaging in the cattle-feeding business. He moved to Auburn in 1888, where he continued farming and became a prominent local figure. Active in the Methodist Episcopal Church and a Master Mason, Thomas’s life exemplified diligence, perseverance, and community involvement.

Biography of Peter Carey of Peru

A Biographical and genealogical history of southeastern Nebraska

Peter Carey, born January 12, 1838, in Pike County, Illinois, was one of the oldest and best-known residents of Peru, Nebraska. He had been a familiar figure in the town for thirty-five years, known for his work as the pioneer drayman and as a dedicated mail carrier. A Civil War veteran, Carey served with distinction in the 2nd Illinois Cavalry. After the war, he moved to Peru in 1869 and became deeply involved in the community, serving on the town board and as city marshal. Married to Susan Debuque in 1888, Carey was also an adoptive father to Ezra Peter Carey.