Montgomery County Archives – Kansas Genealogy

Biography of A. P. Forsyth

1890 J. B. Lippincott Company Map - Montgomery County

A. P. Forsyth was born on May 24, 1830, in New Richmond, Ohio, of Scotch descent. After moving to Indiana at age five, he received his education in local schools and briefly at Asbury University. He married Louisa S. Hinkle in 1851 and had six children. Forsyth served as a traveling preacher and as a first lieutenant in the Civil War. He became politically active in Illinois and later Kansas, serving in Congress and as regent at the Kansas State Agricultural College until his retirement in 1900.

Biography of Michael F. Cassidy

Michael F. Cassidy, born on October 22, 1835, in County Monaghan, Ireland, immigrated to America in 1848. He became a prominent figure in Montgomery County, Kansas, contributing to local agriculture and community development. Married twice, he had a total of eight children, with his second wife, Ellen A. Dunn, and was known for his friendly relations with Native Americans. Cassidy played an active role in local governance and education, earning respect as a committed community member and devout Catholic, thus leaving a lasting legacy.

Biography of Robert Paull

Robert Paull, a prominent figure in Montgomery County, Kansas, was born on September 25, 1841, in Illinois. He served as a private in the Ninety-ninth Illinois Infantry during the Civil War, participating in significant battles, including Vicksburg. After the war, he married Mary E. Miller in 1867 and settled in Montgomery County, where he cultivated a successful 236-acre farm. The couple had two children, Frank and Nancy, and welcomed many friends into their home, contributing to the community’s growth and success.

Biography of William A. Heape

William A. Heape, a successful farmer from Sycamore township, began his agricultural career in 1891 with just $48. Born on September 19, 1869, in Perry County, Illinois, he grew up in Montgomery County before renting 392 acres of wheat land. His hard work paid off, and he later owned a quarter section of land. He married Rose Utterback in 1897, and they had two children, Lee and Hazel. His family lineage included his grandfather Ulysses Heape, originally from Pennsylvania, who moved to Ohio with his seven children.

Biography of Dewitt C. Krone

Dewitt C. Krone was a prominent pioneer in Montgomery County, Kansas, arriving in 1868 after serving in the Civil War. He homesteaded near Sycamore Creek and successfully farmed for over thirty years, becoming an influential community member. His close interactions with the Osage tribe and dedication to preserving local history marked his legacy. Krone was an active participant in the community, contributing to education and local governance. He married twice, fathering several children, and remained a respected figure until his passing.

Biography of Adolph C. Stich

Adolph C. Stich was born on October 13, 1846, in Stade, Hanover, and immigrated to the United States in 1857. He grew up in a modest household, working diligently to achieve success. A businessman in Montgomery County, Kansas, he co-founded the firm Stich Brothers and later became president of The Citizens’ National Bank. Stich played a pivotal role in the economic development of Independence, contributing to various local enterprises, including the prestigious Carl-Leon Hotel. He was married twice and actively participated in community affairs as a Mason and church member.

Biography of David P. Greer

David P. Greer, born April 6, 1856, in Morgan County, Indiana, relocated to Montgomery County, Kansas, in 1880 after living on his family farm. He acquired a 160-acre farm in 1889, established a successful agricultural career, and became known for breeding Poland China hogs. He was actively involved in local governance, serving on the school board and as justice of the peace while supporting the Republican Party. Married to Alice Jolly, he had several children and garnered respect and friendship within the community before his passing.

Biography of William N. Banks

William N. Banks was born on August 15, 1865, in Hobart, Indiana, and moved with his family to Montgomery County, Kansas, in 1871. He began teaching at eighteen and later studied law at Purdue University. After marrying Ollie M. Jones in 1887, he continued teaching until 1892, when he began his legal career. He was admitted to the bar in 1894, eventually founding his law firm. Banks served on the board of education and was involved in various fraternal organizations, remaining a committed Republican throughout his life.

Biography of Lafayette M. Carson

Lafayette M. Carson, born on July 1, 1857, in Iowa, came from a respected Montgomery County family. He was known for his integrity and dedication to public service, serving as a deputy sheriff and township constable. Despite limited formal education, he excelled in farming and was involved in local Republican politics from a young age. His father, William Carson, was a principled man who settled in Iowa in 1847, and his mother, Seletha, was a devoted Baptist. Lafayette’s contributions earned him admiration in his community.

Biography of John Givens

John Givens, born in 1841 in Lake County, Illinois, became a significant figure in Montgomery County as a county commissioner and a successful farmer. He arrived in West Cherry Township in 1869, where he cultivated his 1,000-acre estate. A Civil War veteran, he served in Company “C,” 5th Illinois Cavalry, contributing to key campaigns. After marrying Jennie Burt, Givens raised seven children and was active in local governance. His dedication to both agriculture and community service left a lasting legacy in the area.

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