History of Richardson County Archives

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 Leander C. Prichard of Arago

Leander C. Prichard, a prominent farmer and stockman in Arago precinct, Richardson County, Nebraska, was born on January 15, 1854, in Boyd County, Kentucky. He was the son of William and Caroline (Newman) Prichard, both from Kentucky. In 1880, Leander moved to Nebraska and acquired a 150-acre farm in Arago precinct. He married Laura L. Vaughan on February 21, 1881. Laura, born on January 24, 1864, in Lawrence County, Ohio, moved to Nebraska with her family in 1865. Leander was a Democrat and focused on progressive farming practices, including breeding Duroc-Jersey hogs. The Prichards were well-regarded in their community for their contributions to local development.

Biography of John C. Helfenbein of Arago

John C. Helfenbein, a lifelong resident of Richardson County, Nebraska, was born on February 22, 1866, in Arago precinct. His parents, John and Lena (Buck) Helfenbein, emigrated from Germany and were among the earliest settlers of the county. John C. Helfenbein grew up on the family farm and later established his own 110-acre farm in Arago precinct, where he made significant improvements. On April 21, 1892, he married Mary Miller, with whom he had four children: Leila, August, Edna, and Ernest. Active in his community, Helfenbein was a Republican and a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church.

Biography of Daniel B. Ratekin of Rulo

Daniel B. Ratekin, born on October 2, 1881, near Rulo, Nebraska, served as sheriff of Richardson County following his election in 1914. He was the son of William L. and Mary Ann Vaughn Ratekin, who settled in the county in 1864. Daniel grew up on the family farm and later engaged in various business and public service roles in Rulo, including assessor, school treasurer, and mayor. He moved to Falls City in 1912 to enter the automobile business before becoming sheriff. He married Minna A. LaBlanc in 1904, and they had one daughter, Mary H., born in 1905.

Biography of Charles Henry Thornton of Humboldt

Charles Henry Thornton, a notable commercial photographer in Humboldt, Nebraska, was born on October 17, 1868, near St. Joseph, Michigan. His parents, John M. and Jane (Brady) Thornton, originally from England, moved the family to Iowa in 1874 and later to Nebraska in 1880. Charles transitioned from farming to photography after a stint in Kansas. He established a successful photography studio in Auburn before relocating to Humboldt in 1904. Married to Grace Elliot in 1899, they had two sons, Dale and Leland. Active in the Christian church and local fraternities, Thornton was a prominent community member and Democrat.

Biography of Daniel Riley of Rulo

Daniel Riley, a prominent and well-known farmer in Richardson County, Nebraska, was born on January 6, 1855, in New Jersey. His parents, Michael and Mary (O’Brien) Riley, emigrated from County Tipperary, Ireland, and settled in Nebraska Territory in 1859. Daniel spent his entire life in Richardson County, contributing significantly to its development from its pioneer days. He married Mary Elizabeth (Wheeler) Whitney in 1912 and owned a substantial 800-acre farm. Known for his community involvement, Daniel Riley was an influential figure in local politics and agriculture until his death in 1884.