Different take on Penelope

Penelope
Added by JamesCHenderson on 30 Mar 2008
Richard Stout and His Remarkable Wife, Penelope
Richard Stout was born in abt 1615 in Burton Joyce, Nottinghamshire, England, son of John Stout and Elizabeth Bee. He left home, possibly because his father was unhappy about a relationship he had with a woman below his standing, and joined the British Navy, where he served for seven years. At New Amsterdam he left his ship and became a Netherlands subject. He was said to have been a man of "parts," but of little formal education. Penelope was born in Amsterdam, Holland, circa 1620/22, the daughter of a Baptist preacher who had fled Sheffield, England, for religious reasons. When American colonization made it possible for the English expatriates to leave Holland they, wanting their children to retain their Englishness, came to the New World. She married shortly before leaving Holland in 1640. Her adventures upon arrival are the stuff of legend; like all good legends, there is a certain variation in the details but the core of the story remains throughout. The ship on which she and her husband were traveling was ship-wrecked off Sandy Hook in what is now New Jersey, just across the bay from New Amsterdam. Her husband was sick of a fever. The other surviving passengers fled up the coast to New Amsterdam, leaving Penelope to care for her sick husband. Before long they were attacked by Indians. Her husband was killed and Penelope was left for dead. She was evidently wounded about the head (supposedly a partial scalping) and her intestines were protruding. For several days she was able to survive alone before two Indians came by. They argued, evidently about whether or not to kill her. The older Indian prevailed, saving her life and so, putting her across his shoulder, carried her to the Indian village. He was kind to her and she lived and worked there for about a year before the men of New Amsterdam, hearingd of a white woman living with the Indians, came to barter for her. Her captor asked if she wished to leave. When she said she did, the old man accepted payment and let her go. Smith's History of New Jersey, published in 1765, tells the story slightly differently. It relates that a party of Indians found the couple and immediately killed the man. They then mangled the woman, and left her for dead. After hiding for several days in a hollow tree, Penelope was found by a friendly Indian who nursed her back to health. A rescue party found her and brought her to New Amsterdam - now New York - and a short time later she married an Englishman, Richard Stout. Either way, itt was through this transaction of events that Penelope became a member of the New Amsterdam colony and she and Richard Stout met were and were married in 1644. Family members, telling of Penelope in later years, relate that she always wore a head dress to conceal her terrible scars. Penelope outlived Richard by a number of years. Stout and Allied Families give her name as Penelope Kent or Lent, and her first husband as Mr. Van Princen or Von Princess. "Four Women in a Violent Time" by Debora H Crawford gives her name as Penelope Thomson or Thompson, and her first husband as Kent Van Princes. Penelope was instrumental in helping Lady Deborah Moody found Gravesend, New York. Penelope and Richard later returned to New Jersey and had 10 children. The nameless Indian who saved Penelope Stout's life was a frequent visitor and friend. According to the tale, he later alerted the community to a potential confrontation with another band of marauding natives, probably from New York. Most accounts agree that Penelope lived to be 110 (death dates differ - either 1712 or 1732) and had some 502 descendants at the time of her death.. Many of her descendants still live in the county.
They crossed the bay and settled in the above said Middletown. There was at that time but six white families in the settlement, including their own, (which was in the year 1648), where they continued until they became rich in prosperity and rich in children. They had together seven son and three daughters, viz: John, Richard, Jonathan, Peter, James,Benjamin, David. The daughters were - Deliverance, Sarah, Penelope.All of which sons and daughters lived to raise large families.
She is reported to have been the first white woman to set foot on Monmouth County soil. It is said the Stout family by Penelope's 88th birthday had grown to 502, with daughters having married into the families of the Bounds, Pikes, THROCKMORTONS, and Skeltons. Tradition tells that Penelope lived to be 110 years old." Along with STOUT, GROVER, GIBBONS, BOWNE, GOULDING, and SPICER, came John TILTON Jr., Walter CLARKE, William REAPE, Nathaniel SYLVESTER, Obadiah HOLMES, and Nicholas DAVIS. On April 7, 1665, these twelve patentees Chief Pomamora and his brother, Mishacong signed the purchase agreement, THE MONMOUTH PATENT." Richard and Penelope were the parents of ten children: John, born 1645 Gravesend, Kings County, New York, died 24 November 1724 Middletown, Monmouth County, New Jersey; married Elizabeth Crawford 12 January 1670 in Middletown, Monmouth County, New Jersey Richard, born 1646 Gravesend, Kings County, New York, died 10 July 1717 Monmouth County, New Jersey; married (1) Frances West Heath, (2) Mary Seymour James, born 1648 Gravesend, Kings County, New York, died before 1697; married Elizabeth Truax Mary, born 1650 Monmouth County, New Jersey; married James Bowne 26 December 1665 Gravesend, Kings County, New York Alice, born 1652, Gravesend, Kings County, New York; married (1) John Throckmorton 12 December 1670, (2) Robert Skelton 30 October 1691 New York, (3) Mr. Jones before April 1704 Peter, born 1654 Gravesend, Kings County, New York, died 1703 Middletown, Monmouth County, New Jersey; married Mary Bullen 12 December 1670 Sarah, born 1656 Gravesend, Kings County, New York; married John Pike 1675 Jonathan, born 1660 Gravesend, Kings County, New York, died 24 November 1722 Hopewell, Mercer County, New Jersey; married Ann Throckmorton Bullen (sister of Mary, above) 27 August 1685 David, born 1667 Monmouth County, New Jersey, died 1732 Amwell, Hunterdon County, New Jersey; married Rebecca Ashton 1688 Monmouth County, New Jersey Benjamin, born 1669 Monmouth County, New Jersey, died 1734; married (1) Mary Leonard, (2) Agnes (Agnietje) Truax
Gravesend was one of the original towns in the Dutch colony of New Netherland and became one of the six original towns of Kings County in colonial New York . It was the only English chartered town in what became Kings County and was designated the "Shire Town" when the English assumed control, as it was the only one where records could be kept in English. Courts were removed to Flatbush in 1685. The former name survives, and is now associated with a neighborhood in Brooklyn.

Penelope Van Princes

The story of Penelope Stout, once butchered and left for dead in the wilder- ess
Added by Pamela_Balstad on 10 Mar 2007
The story of Penelope Stout, once butchered and left for dead in the wilderness, is a stirring and fascinating one, which gives the reader an idea of the hardships settlers faced. About 1624, in New Amsterdam, Richard Stout, a native of England, married her. He was 40 while she only 22. She induced him to sail across the bay and settle at Middletown, near those who saved her. Many of his friends visited this contented couple and took up residence there. When they had two young children, an uprising was stirring. One of Mrs. Stouts? Indian friends came to warn her, and she was able to escape again to New Amsterdam with her children. There are references to Richard Stout attempting to settle Middletown in 1655, which were aborted. This may have been temporary due to Indian problems. Later, a general conference was held in which the white men agreed to buy the lands from the Indians. Deeds were granted, signed and duly paid for and witnessed. This led to relative peace in the area. Penelope went on to bear 10 children; seven sons and three daughters: Jonathan (founder of Hopewell), John, Richard, James Peter, David, Benjamin, Mary, Sarah and Alice. Penelope lived to be 110 years old and saw 502 offspring in 88 years.BIOGRAPHY: From "History of the Stout Family" by Nathan Stout, 1823Richard Stout, the first of the name in America was born in Nottinghamshire, in Old England, and his father's name was John. The said Richard, when quite young paid his addresses to a young woman that his father thought below his rank, upon which account some unpleasant conversation happened between the father and the son, on account of which, the said Richard left his father's house; and in a few days engaged on board a ship of war, where he served about seven years, after which time he got a discharge at New Amsterdam, now called New York, in America. About the same time a ship from Amsterdam, in Holland, on her way to the said New Amsterdam, was driven on the shore that is now called Middletown, in Monmouth County, in the State of new Jersey, which ship was loaded with passengers, who with much difficulty got on shore. But the Indians not long after fell upon them and butchered and killed the whole crew, as they thought, but soon after the Indians were gone, a certain Penelope Van Princes, whose husband the Indians had killed, found herself possessed of strength enough to creep to a hollow tree, where she remained some days. An Indian happening to come that way, whose dog coming to the tree, occasioned him to examine the inside of the tree, where he found the said Penelope in a forlorn, distressed condition. She was bruised very severely about the head, and her bowels protruded from a cut across her abdomen; she kept them in with her hand. She had been in this fearful condition seven days when the Indian found her. In his compassion he took her out of the tree and carried her to his wigwam where he treated her kindly and healed her wounds, and in a short time conveyed her in his canoe to New Amsterdam, where he sold her to the Dutch, who then owned that city, now called New York.The man and woman from whom the whole race of Stouts descended, got into the city of New Amsterdam, where they became acquainted with each other and were married. And, not withstanding, it may be thought by some, that they conducted themselves with more fortitude than prudence, they immediately crossed the bay and settled in the above said Middletown, where the said Penelope had lost her first husband by the Indians and had been so severely wounded herself.There was at that time but six white families in the settlement, including their own, (which was in the year 1648), where they continued until they became rich in prosperity and rich in children. They had together seven son and three daughters, viz: John, Richard, Jonathan, Peter, James, Benjamin, David. The daughters were - Deliverance, Sarah, Penelope. All of which sons and daughters lived to raise large families.Richard married Penelope Kent about 1644 in Gravesend, Kings, New York 460.,461 (Penelope Kent was born about 1622 in Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands, died in 1712 in Middletown, Monmouth, New Jersey and was buried in Family Estate, Middletown, Monmouth, New Jersey.)

More on Edward Taylor

The Silver Cup and the Lenni Lenape Indians
Added by henson176 on 19 Oct 2007
This information is extracted from the book compiled by Charissa Taylor Bass and Frank Bass, entitled Genealogy, Taylor-Snow, in memory of Oscar Taylor and Malvina Snow Taylor, published Freeport, Ill., Mar 9th, 1935."Shadoschurst or Shadochurst was evidently the ancient spelling--Shadowhurst Manor--as it is now called, and it is a far more musical name, is still in existence set in the midst of beautiful Woodlands. This fact was recently told to one of the "Taylor Kin" by Lord Cornwallis of England, who said he knew the place well.When Edward and his family came from Merry England, he brought with him a cherished possession, a SILVER CUP which tradition says, was given him for some Signal Service. The Cup was dear to his heart, and after the English custom, he entailed it in the line of Edward his eldest son. This Precious Heirloom, I have been able to trace as far as the tenth Edward Taylor, born 17 July 1902, the son of Edward Taylor, who in 1901 married Bessie Marian Frees--here, the chain is broken.Charissa writes, "Will anyone knowing the Eleventh Edward, communicate with Mrs. Frank N. Bass, Freeport, Ill.While the actual Taylor Lineage in New Jersey dates about 1682, the real Family Story begins with the beginning of Middletown and New Jersey itself. On 2 Sep 1609 the Lenni Lenape Indians, inhabitants of the region now Middletown and Freehold, were hunting in the wooded hills bordering the Bay and near the Navasink Highlands--suddenly an astounding object resembling a huge Bird, rounded the Sandy Hook and sailed up Raritan Bay. It was Hendrick Hudson's Half Moon. The Half Moon made a fleeting visit and sailed away, but his Log Book dated 2nd Sep 1609, remarks: "This is a very good land to fall in with, and a pleasant land to see." Thousands of ships have passed Sandy Hook and entered the Bay in the past 320 years, but never one that caused such wonderment as the Half Moon. The first White Man had come and gone, but the result of his fleeting visit, was new Territory for Holland. In 1647, Peter Stuyvesant became the last Dutch Rule. The City of New York then numbered probably some 1500 souls, while New Jersey was still a wilderness occupied by the Lenni Lenape Indians. On 12th March 1664, Charles 2nd, of Eng., granted a Patent to his brother the Duke of York and Albany, for "Sundry tracts in America." Part of this tract was conveyed by the Duke of York, to John, Lord Berkely, and to Sir George Cartaret, both members of the "King's Council." The lease, dated 23 June 1664 was for a sum equal to about 32 dollars, and said tract to be called Nova Caesarea or New Jersey. So in 1664 the "New Netherlands" were divided into New Jersey, named for Sir George's family of the Isle of Jersey; and New York for the Duke of York. Sir George Carteret became Proprietor of East Jersey; his daughter married into one branch of the Taylor family--probably this family connection influenced Mathew Taylor who came first, and also Edward. Through Sir George's influence as Proprietor of East Jersey, both brothers acquired large tracts of land along the Raritan river.The year 1664, finds the Dutch rule ended and Richard Nicolls established Deputy Governor, under the Duke of York. Nicholls commanded all Planters in the Colonies to take out Ducal Land Grants.Accounts vary as to the date of the coming of Richard Sout and his wife and five other families, placing it from 1648 to 1655. The first Indian purchase was in 1664 from Popora Indian Sachem, the Deed recorded in Albany Lieber 3 page 1, the consideration as follows:"118 fathoms Seawamps (wampun) 68 of white 50 of black; 5 coats, 1 gun, 1 clout-cap, 1 shirt, 12 pounds of tabacco and an anker of Wine." But in 1665, Richard Stout was established in what is now Middletown, and with eleven other men has applied for a Charter to cover their Indian purchases, and on April 8th, 1665, the famous "Monmouth Patent" was signed by Governor Nicholls and that event was the real beginning of Middletown. Middletown is Historic! and the Taylor Family and collateral lines who were cradled in its bosom, are closely interwoven with its History. Richard Stout (of whom more anon) and James Grover were of the Monmouth Patent, while they, with Thomas Cox, Rev James Ashton and John Throckmorton, were among the first 36 men to draw lots in 1667. Middletown is the oldest settlement in New Jersey, and in Monmouth Co., which previously to 1683 was called Navasink Co., or Navasink Highlands.To a woman must be given the credit of bringing the first permanent white settlers, she was Penelope Van Princis our Ancestress and wife of Richard Stout."

Edward Taylor came from England in 1692 to Garretts Hill Per Henry's sons Obituary (William H. Taylor)

Excerpts from The Last Will and Testament
Added by henson176 on 20 Oct 2007
This information is extracted from the book compiled by Charissa Taylor Bass and Frank Bass, entitled Genealogy, Taylor-Snow, in memory of Oscar Taylor and Malvina Snow Taylor, published Freeport, Ill., Mar 9th, 1935.
"Edward, inheritor of the Silver Cup brought from England and entailed to him by his father. He was a man of wealth, with property in Freehold, Garretts Hill and Colts Neck, Shrewbury. Like his father Edward, he built a house at Garretts Hill; this house at the time of the Revolutionary War, was occupied by his son George and wife Mary Leonard. It was burned down only two years ago. (1933) Edward removed from Garrets Hill and had a Plantation at Colts Neck, Shrewsbury, where he died 1733/34. He died young at 56, and according to his Will, only Edward and John of his six sons, were of age. Of his 5 daughters, Susannah and Esther are untraced, Rebeekah being the only one whose children I found.
Edward's Will is in the Office of the Secretary of State, Trenton, New Jersey.
22 Feb 1733/34, from 591-601 (Book B. p. 554) of Wills. Excerpts from Edward's Will.
"The twenty-second day of February in the year of our Lord, One Thousand Seven Hundred & Thirty & Three. I Edward Taylor of Shewsbury, Province of N. J. do make this my last Will and Testament--"
Then follow items regarding burial and debts. But notice, the first piece of property mentioned, of any kind, is the family Heirloom!
"Item I give and bequeath unto my beloved son Edward Taylor, my Silver Cup after his mother's decease, to be possessed & enjoyed by him and his heirs forever. Item I give and devise unto my beloved sons Edward and John all that tract of Land in Freehold. Item I give & devise unto James, that Land called & known by ye name of "Ye Old Place" wherein I formerly lived. (Garretts Hill)." He then divides equally between Thomas and Joseph, "Ye Plantation whereon I live." Item I give & devise unto my son John the Bay Mare he now rides, to be held possessed & enjoyed by him and his heirs forever. My will is that my Dearly beloved wife Catherine, shall enjoy ye benefits and privilege of my now dwelling house and maintenance out of ye Plantation, so long as she remain my widow. Item I give and bequeath to my sons Edward and John five Ewes and five lambs to be possessed & enjoyed by and between them as they think proper or can agree by them and their heirs forever, also ye two sheep at Crosswickes. Item I give and bequeath sons James, Thomas, Joseph and George, each one good riding horse and saddle, when they arrive at ye age of Twenty and one years, also one cow to be enjoyed by them and their heirs forever. I give my son John one Gun, being at his Election to take either my father's or that which is called (now) his Gun. Item I give & bequeath unto my beloved daughters Esther, Susanna & Hannah each ye sum of Twenty Shillings. Item I give and bequeath unto by beloved daughter Catherine her riding saddle & one good riding horse, also a good feather bed with curtains & furniture suitable thereto. Also two cows either with calf or calves by their sides together with five Ewes and five lambs & six new chairs. Three pounds worth of Pewter and one chest or trunk, all which to be delivered to her at or upon ye Day of her Marriage, and ye same to be received & enjoyed by her & her heirs forever."
His daughter Rebecca received a like Dowry, so probably Esther, Susanna and Hannah were younger. James, Thomas, Joseph and George were under 21, and as they always mentioned in this order it is probably the order of their birth.
Additional information about this story
Description
Excerpts from Edward Taylor's Will
Date
1733
Location
New Jersey
Attached to
Edward Taylor (1678 - )
Other trees this object is saved to
Leavenworth, Sr Family Tree

Excerpts from The Last Will and Testament
Added by henson176 on 20 Oct 2007
This information is extracted from the book compiled by Charissa Taylor Bass and Frank Bass, entitled Genealogy, Taylor-Snow, in memory of Oscar Taylor and Malvina Snow Taylor, published Freeport, Ill., Mar 9th, 1935.
"Edward, inheritor of the Silver Cup brought from England and entailed to him by his father. He was a man of wealth, with property in Freehold, Garretts Hill and Colts Neck, Shrewbury. Like his father Edward, he built a house at Garretts Hill; this house at the time of the Revolutionary War, was occupied by his son George and wife Mary Leonard. It was burned down only two years ago. (1933) Edward removed from Garrets Hill and had a Plantation at Colts Neck, Shrewsbury, where he died 1733/34. He died young at 56, and according to his Will, only Edward and John of his six sons, were of age. Of his 5 daughters, Susannah and Esther are untraced, Rebeekah being the only one whose children I found.
Edward's Will is in the Office of the Secretary of State, Trenton, New Jersey.
22 Feb 1733/34, from 591-601 (Book B. p. 554) of Wills. Excerpts from Edward's Will.
"The twenty-second day of February in the year of our Lord, One Thousand Seven Hundred & Thirty & Three. I Edward Taylor of Shewsbury, Province of N. J. do make this my last Will and Testament--"
Then follow items regarding burial and debts. But notice, the first piece of property mentioned, of any kind, is the family Heirloom!
"Item I give and bequeath unto my beloved son Edward Taylor, my Silver Cup after his mother's decease, to be possessed & enjoyed by him and his heirs forever. Item I give and devise unto my beloved sons Edward and John all that tract of Land in Freehold. Item I give & devise unto James, that Land called & known by ye name of "Ye Old Place" wherein I formerly lived. (Garretts Hill)." He then divides equally between Thomas and Joseph, "Ye Plantation whereon I live." Item I give & devise unto my son John the Bay Mare he now rides, to be held possessed & enjoyed by him and his heirs forever. My will is that my Dearly beloved wife Catherine, shall enjoy ye benefits and privilege of my now dwelling house and maintenance out of ye Plantation, so long as she remain my widow. Item I give and bequeath to my sons Edward and John five Ewes and five lambs to be possessed & enjoyed by and between them as they think proper or can agree by them and their heirs forever, also ye two sheep at Crosswickes. Item I give and bequeath sons James, Thomas, Joseph and George, each one good riding horse and saddle, when they arrive at ye age of Twenty and one years, also one cow to be enjoyed by them and their heirs forever. I give my son John one Gun, being at his Election to take either my father's or that which is called (now) his Gun. Item I give & bequeath unto my beloved daughters Esther, Susanna & Hannah each ye sum of Twenty Shillings. Item I give and bequeath unto by beloved daughter Catherine her riding saddle & one good riding horse, also a good feather bed with curtains & furniture suitable thereto. Also two cows either with calf or calves by their sides together with five Ewes and five lambs & six new chairs. Three pounds worth of Pewter and one chest or trunk, all which to be delivered to her at or upon ye Day of her Marriage, and ye same to be received & enjoyed by her & her heirs forever."
His daughter Rebecca received a like Dowry, so probably Esther, Susanna and Hannah were younger. James, Thomas, Joseph and George were under 21, and as they always mentioned in this order it is probably the order of their birth.
Additional information about this story
Description
Excerpts from Edward Taylor's Will
Date
1733
Location
New Jersey
Attached to
Edward Taylor (1678 - )
Other trees this object is saved to
Leavenworth, Sr Family Tree

WILLIAM H. TAYLOR. (Volume 1, Page 285)

William H. Taylor, who is one of Clinton's representative citizens and a popular traveling salesman, was born on the 4th of June, 1836, in Muskingum county, Ohio, and is a son of Henry and Mary E. (Miller) Taylor. History records that there were four brothers of the Taylor family who came to this country from Scotland, one locating in Pennsylvania, another in Delaware, and the third in Virginia, while the fourth, being a sea captain, was lost at sea. Nathaniel Taylor, our subject's paternal grandfather, was a son of the one who settled in Delaware. He married and throughout life followed farming.

Henry Taylor, our subject's father, was born in Delaware and in early life emigrated to Ohio, where he wedded Miss Mary E. Miller, a native of Pennsylvania. In 1853 they came to Clinton, Illinois, which was then a small town, and in company with Henry and George Bell and Henry Lutzenbarger, Mr. Taylor purchased the vacant corner where the Magill House now stands, and erected a large two-story frame building, which they stocked with general merchandise, being successfully engaged in business there until 1857, when a fire destroyed their store and it contents. Later Mr. Taylor, in partnership with A. J. Blackford, rented a building and again embarked in merchandising, under the firm name of Taylor & Blackford, but during the panic of 1873, they failed and he again lost everything. Nothing daunted, however, he opened a small coal office, where our subject's son, Walter, is now carrying on business, and his son, Fletcher, became associated with him in 1880 and later succeeded to the business. He was a strong man, both physically and mentally, and although he twice met with misfortune in business he always gave liberally of his means to all enterprises for the public good. His fellow citizens recognizing his worth and ability called upon him to fill many official positions. Both he and his wife were active members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and were highly respected and esteemed by all who knew them. He died in 1891, at the age of seventy-seven years, and she departed this life in 1898, when over eighty years of age. Their children were George; William H.; Samuel K.; Mary E.; Homer B.; John T., who died in infancy; Fletcher C.; a daughter who died in infancy; Frank Z.; and Annie.

William H. Taylor, of this review, came to Clinton with his parents, and assisted his father in business until 1857, when he opened a shoe store in the rear of his father's place of business. After the fire which destroyed their property, he formed a partnership with Mr. Toury, and carried on the same line of business until after the Civil war broke out. In 1861, Mr. Taylor enlisted in Company F, Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was promoted to second lieutenant on the 1st of October of the same year, after which he served as adjutant of the regiment. He was in the service three years and one month. Being six feet in height, broad shouldered and of fine physique, his was a commanding figure, and he made a handsome officer. Those who served under him still speak in glowing terms of their first lieutenant.

On his return from the war Mr. Taylor again engaged in the general store business until 1872, when he went upon the road as a traveling salesman for the grocery house of Harmon, Merrian & Company of Chicago, which since the death of Mr. Harmon has become Merrian, Collins & Dexter. During the years that have since passed Mr. Taylor has remained in their employ, having now been with them almost a quarter of a century. In 1868 the Magill Brothers built what is known as the Magill House, which is a large three-story brick structure on North Center street, extending from the square to Washington street. This our subject bought in 1898, and has since remodeled and enlarged it by building a thirty-two-foot addition on the west. It is to to-day a good modern hotel—the best in the city. For his home he purchased the Coverdale property at 1006 East Main street, which is a beautiful place, the elegant residence being surrounded by wide lawns, shady drives, lovely trees and shrubs. His first home was on the corner of Washington and Jackson streets.

Mr. Taylor has been twice married, his first wife being Lucy, daughter of James H. Merrill, and to them were born three children: Walter M., whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume; Emma, who died young; and Lula, who died in infancy. The wife and mother died in 1873, at the age of thirty-four years. In 1875 Mr. Taylor married Miss Jennie Rennick, by whom he also had three children: Nellie married Dr. Charles Bogardus, a prominent physician of Clinton, and died in 1901, at the age of twenty-five years. She was one of the leading young ladies of the city and very popular. William H. enlisted in 1900 as a private in Company D, Thirteenth United States Regiment, and is now serving at Dangupon, Philippine Islands. Edward M. was also in the service, enlisting at Denver, Colorado, in May, 1898, in the first Colorado Infantry, at the first call for troops to be sent to Manilla. With his regiment he started for San Francisco, May 17, and on the 14th of June, on the steamer China, for Honolulu. On the 4th of July they stopped at Wakes Island, where General Green and Colonel Hill planted the United States flag, and fourteen days later landed at Camp Dewey, on the Island of Luzon, seven miles from the city of Manilla. There they began throwing up entrenchments within one hundred and twenty-five yards of the enemy's lines. They took part in the famous battle of Manilla, and the battles of Hesty, Manquena, Antapelo and Paranaque, besides many skirmishes, being under fire most of the time. On the 4th of July, 1900, they received orders at Manilla to embark for home, and arrived at San Francisco on the 10th of August. Edward M. Taylor was mustered out on the 8th of the following September and returned home. In 1901 he opened a grocery store in Clinton, in connection with his brother Walter H. [should be M.], and is now conducting the same. He can relate many thrilling experiences of his life in the Philippines, which if written would make a very fascinating book.

Fraternally Mr. Taylor is a member of Lodge No. 84, F. & A. M., of which he was master three terms, and was a member and high priest of the Chapter. He is now serving as trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church, with which the family have been connected for several generations, and have always been active church workers. Our subject has never cared for office, but has always taken a commendable interest in all enterprises calculated to advance the welfare of the city which has now been his home for almost fifty years.

1920 United States Federal Census about George Vanzant
Name:
George Vanzant[George Sweigart]
Home in 1920:
Campbell, Greene, Missouri
Age:
AgeWith12ths('38',true);
38 years
Estimated birth year:
abt 1882
Birthplace:
Missouri
Relation to Head of House:
Boarder
Father's Birth Place:
Missouri
Mother's Birth Place:
Missouri
Marital Status:
Divorced
Race:
White
Sex:
Male
Able to read:
No
Able to Write:
No
Image:
14
Neighbors:
View others on page
Household Members:
Name
Age
Frank M Morris
63
Margaret E Morris
59
Clarissa Vanzant
33
Charley Vanzant
35
Thurman E Vanzant
9
Chester N Vanzant
3
Jeraldine Vanzant
6/12
George Vanzant
38

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Stout

THE FOLLOWING RECEIVED FROM MARY VANDERHEYDT
OLD TIMES IN OLD MONMOUTH
THE FIRST SETTLERS IN OLD MONMOUTH
Indians on the War Path - Firm Stand of the Settlers - A League of Peace Never Broken.
Among the first whites who permanently settled in old Monmouth, was Richard Stout [1] , who, with his own family and five other families, it is said, located in Middletown in 1648. The history of the Stout family, though familiar to those versed in the ancient history of out state, yet is so remarkable on account of the wonderful preservation of the life of Mrs. Stout, and of so much general interest because their descendants in our country and elsewhere are so numerous, and also because their family were among the first Baptists in New Jersey, that it will bear repeating especially as it may prove new to many of our readers. The version of the remarkable history of Penelope Stout, as given in Benedict's History of the Baptists, is the one most familiar to our older citizens but believing that many of our readers may wish for preservation both this version and the one given in 1765, by Smith in his history of New Jersey, we append them with additional items from other sources.
The ship in which Penelope came to this country was wrecked on the coast of Monmouth, some two hundred and fifty years ago. The story of her remarkable presevation was handed down by tradition, in various parts of the state, for a century and a half with little variation except that some traditionary versions, at one time, located the place of the shipwreck on the Delaware.
The following version is the one published by Smith in 1765
"While New York was in the possession of the Dutch, about the time of the Indian war in New England, a Dutch ship, coming from Amsterdam, was stranded on Sandy Hook, but the passengers got ashore - among them was a young Dutchman who had been sick most of the voyage; he was so bad after landing that he could not travel, and the other passengers, being afraid of the Indians, would not stay until he recovered; his wife, however, would not leave him, and the rest promised to send for them as soon as they arrived at New Amsterdam (New York). They had not been gone long before a company of Indians, coming to the water side, discovered them on the beach, and hastening to the spot, soon killed the man and cut and mangled the woman in such a manner that they left her for dead. She had strength enough to crawl to some logs not far distant, and getting into a hollow one lived within it for several days, subsisting in part by eating the excrescences that grew from it. The Indians had left some fire on the shore, which she kept together for the warmth. Having remained in that manner for some time, an old Indian and a young one coming down the beach found her; they were soon in high words, which she afterwards understood was a dispute; the old Indian was for keeping her alive, the other for dispatching her. After they had debated the point awhile, the oldest Indian hastily took her up and tossing her upon his shoulder, carried her to a place near where Middletown now stands, where he dressed her wounds and soon cured her. After some time the Dutch at New Amsterdam, hearing of a white woman among the Indians, concluded who it must be, and some of them came to her relief; the old man, her preserver, gave her the choice to go or stay; she chose to go. A while after, marrying one Stout, they lived together at Middletown among other Dutch inhabitants. The old Indian who saved her life used frequently to visit her; at one of his visits she observed him to be more pensive than common, and sitting down, he gave three heavy sighs; after the last, she thought herself at liberty to ask him what was the matter. He told her he had something to tell her in friendship, though at the risk of his own life, which was that the Indians were that night to kill all the whites, and he advised her to go to New Amsterdam; she asked him how she could get off? He told her he had provided a canoe at a place which he named. Being gone from her she sent for her husband out of the field, and discovered the matter to him, who, not believing it, she told him the old man never deceived her, and that she with her children would go; accordingly at the place appointed they found the canoe and paddled off. When they were gone, the husband began to consider the matter, and sending for five or six of his neighbors, they set upon there guard. About midnight they heard the dismal warwhoop; presently came up a company of Indians; they first expostulated and then told the Indians if they persisted in their bloody designs, they would sell their lives very dear. Their arguments prevailed, the Indians desisted, and entered into a league of peace, which kept without violation. From this woman, thus remarkable saved, is descended a numerous posterity of the name of Stout, now inhabitants of New Jersey. At that time there were supposed to be about fifty families of white people, and five hundred Indians inhabiting those parts."
THE ACCOUNT OF PENELOPE STOUT
As given in Benedict's History, is as follows
"She was born in Amsterdam, in Holland, about the year 1602; her father's name was Vanprincis. She and her first husband (whose name is not known) sailed for New York (then New Amsterdam) about the year 1620; the vessel was stranded at Sandy Hook; the crew got ashore and marched towards New York; but Penelope's (for that was her name) husband being hurt in the wreck, could not march with them; therefore, he and his wife tarried in the woods; they had not been long in the place before the Indians killed them both (as they thought) and left. After some time Penelope came to, though her skull was fractured and her left shoulder so hacked that she could never use that arm like the other; she was also cut across the abdomen so that her bowels appeared; these she kept in with her hand; she continued in this situation for seven days, taking shelter in a hollow tree, and eating the excrescence of it; the seventh day she saw a deer passing by with arrows sticking in it, and soon after two Indians appeared, whom she was glad to see, in hope they would put her out of her misery; accordingly, one made for her to knock her on the head; but the other, who was an elderly man, prevented him; and, throwing his match coat about her, carried her to his wigwam and cured her of her wounds and bruises; after that he took her to New York and made a present of her to her countrymen, viz: and Indian present, expecting ten times the value in return. It was in New York that one Richard Stout married her; he was a native of England, and of good family: she was now in her 22nd year, and he in his 40th. She bore him seven sons and three daughters, Jonathan, John, Richard, James, Peter, David, Benjamin, Mary, Sarah and Alice; the daughters married into the families of the Bounds, Pikes, Throckmortons and Skeltons, and so lost the name Stout; the sons married into the families of Bullen, Crawford, Ashton, Truax, etc. and had many children. The mother lived to the age of 110, and saw her offspring multiplied into 502 in about 88 years."
Text by Douglas B. Dick, a descendent of Penelope Stout
About or around 1642/43 Penelope Van Prince, a widow of twenty-three was a noble woman who had passed through many struggles nearing death several times during her efforts to reach America.
The ship which was bringing Penelope and her husband wrecked off Sandy Hood, New Jersey. Her husband had been quite ill during the voyage and was seriously injured in the attempt to reach land. The ship's passengers feared an attack by Indians, so they decided to travel immediately to Amsterdam. Penelope's husband was in no condition to travel so they were left behind.
Shortly after they were left alone, a large party of Indians found them and attacked them. Penelope and her husband were left for dead, but she survived. She suffered a fractured skull. Her left arm was hacked so severely that she was never able to use that arm again like she did the other. A cut across the abdomen left bare part of her bowels, these she held in with her hands. She suffered in this painful condition for seven days.
Two indians approached her. She felt relief for she thought they would put her out of her misery. However, the older of the two stayed the hand of the younger man who intended to kill her; and took her to his wigwam where he tended her. He then took her to New Amsterdam where he traded her to the white settlers expecting ten times her value in return. She met Richard Stout and they were married in 1644. To them were born ten children. She lived to see 510 of her descendents and died at the age of 110. A monument stands to her honor in New England.
Notes for PENELOPE KENT VAN PRINCESS:
Penelope Stout - First Lady of Monmouth
One of the best known chapters of [Monmouth's] early history is the story of Penelope Stout, believed to be the first white woman to set foot on [Monmouth] county soil.
During the first half of the 17th century - the exact date is unknown - a ship from Holland was wrecked on Sandy Hook. Among those aboard was Penelope Van Princis, whose husband had become ill on the long sea voyage. The passengers and crew reached shore safely, but hearing of an Indian attack they set out on foot for New York (New Amsterdam), leaving the sick man and his wife behind.
Smith's History of New Jersey, published in 1765, relates that a party of Indians found the couple and immediately killed the man. They then mangled the woman, and left her for dead. After hiding for several days in a hollow tree, Penelope was found by a friendly Indian who nursed her back to health. A rescue party found her and brought her to New Amsterdam - now New York - and a short time later she married an Englishman, Richard Stout.
Penelope and Richard later returned to New Jersey and had 10 children. The nameless Indian who saved Penelope Stout's life was a frequent visitor and friend. According to the tale, he later alerted the community to a potential confrontation with another band of marauding natives, probably from New York. Most accounts agree that Penelope lived to be 110 and had some 502 descendants at the time of her death, in either 1712 or 1732. Many of her descendants still live in the county.
Penelope's story is told at the Spy House Museum Complex in Port Monmouth, New Jersey.
Richard Stout, a son of John and Elizabeth (Bee or Gee) Stout, was born in Nottinghamshire, England about 1715. He joined the British Navy and was discharged at New Amsterdam, now New York, about 1640. Richard was one of thirty nine people who founded a settlement at Graves End, Long Island, in 1644. That year, he married Penelope (Kent) Van Princin.
Penelope Kent was probably born about 1622 in England. Her father is believed to have been a Puritan Baptist Separatist who was banished from his church and who fled to Holland with his family. Penelope married a man named Van Princin in Amsterdam.
In 1640, Penelope and her husband took ship with a group of emigrants to America. The ship was wrecked at Sandy Hook, New Jersey. Many of the passengers traveled overland to New Amsterdam, but Penelope husband was ill and could not travel, so they remained near the wreck site. The little encampment was attacked by Indians, who killed Penelope's husband and left her for dead with a fractured skull, a hacked shoulder and a gash in her body that allowed her intestines to protrude. Penelope survived alone for several days until two Indian men came by. The older of the two carried her to his village and sewed up her wounds with a fish bone needle and vegetable fibers. Penelope recovered and lived with the Indians, doing squaw's work and sharing their life.
In 1644, a group of white men came to the Indian village and offered to buy the white woman that they had heard of. Penelope's captor asked if she wished to go with the whites and was permitted to do so.
In 1664, an Indian came to warn Penelope of a planned Indian attack on the settlement of Grave's end. The Indians did attack and the forewarned settlers were able to defend themselves and put the Indians to flight. Richard Stout walked into the open and demanded a parley. After a conference, the whites and Indians agreed to a truce and a two day ceremonial to celebrate the treaty. The white agreed to buy the lands they had settled on and were never attacked again. The date of purchase from the Indians was January 25, 1664.
In 1668, Richard and his family joined with others in forming the first Baptist Church of New Jersey.
Richard's will was approved in October 1705 and is on file in the office of the Secretary of State at Trenton, New Jersey. Penelope died in 1732.
Unknown newspaper "The Story of Penelope Stout" copy found at Monmouth County Historical Association Library, 70 Court Street, Freehold, NJ 07728
Dr. Thomas Hale Streets questions the time sequence in a study he made of the Stout family in 1915. He said that all dates in recorded accounts were about 20 years too early, thus making the date of the shipwreck about 1640 rather than 1620 and making the date of the marriage to Richard Stout about 1644 rather than 1624. For example, there was no New Amsterdam in 1620. His most telling rebuttal hinged on the known birth date of Penelope's 10th and last child, David, born in 1669. That would have made Mrs. Stout a mother at age 67 and Richard a father at 85.
Penelope Van Princis Stout died in 1712, either at age 110 if you believe traditional accounts, or at age 90 if Dr. Streets is correct.
The following sources and information are from: "Early Vital Records of Ohio: - copied by the Daughters of the American Revolution - Complied under the Direction of Miss Irma B. Gobel. This booklet was found at the DAR Library in Washington, DC.
"There are still hollow Buttonwood trees near Middlestown as were there in the time when Penelope is said to have taken refuge in one."
The Op Dyck Genealogy, page 148, "Among the settlers appear Richard Stout, Samuel Holmes, and others whose descendants in New York and New Jersey have number by thousands. The famous Penelope Prince appears on the records as having remarked that, "the wife of Ambrose London did milk the cows of Thomas Applegate." "She" being questioned knowledged her fault in so speaking, and being sorry for her words, she spoke satisfaction on both sides."
The following articles, 1 to 3 pages, that can be found in the Monmouth County Historical Association Library, 70 Court Street, Freehold, NJ 07728. Library is open Wednesday - Sunday : 10 AM to 4 PM - phone 908-462-1466.
Newspaper, "The Monmouth Inquirer", Thursday, 20 May 1886. Article "First Families of Monmouth, Stout Family" by Edwin Salter.
Unknown newspaper and unknown date, "The Story of Penelope Stout"
Asbury Park Press, Aug 10, 1980, page A3, "Stout family marks its 52nd reunion at Middletown Church." Talks about and has picture of Penelope Stout First Lady of Monmouth medallion.
"The Penelope Stout House, also known as the John S. Hendrickson House", Everett Road, Holmdel, NJ. (Note there is a Holmes - Hendrickson House, Longstreet Road, Holmdel, NJ. This house is part of Monmouth County Historical Association Museums and is open May - October.)
"The Mother of the Stouts" by Mrs. Therese W. Seabrook. "My tradition has come through only two persons from Penelope, herself, and I think it more correct than much that is told. The second son, Richard, had a son, John, who was therefore grandson of Penelope. When his grandmother was about 85 years old, he took her on his horse to visit one of her children and when he helped her to alight she insisted upon his putting his hand through the pocket hole of her garment to feel the seam which the Indian sewed up. He was young and bashful but she said, "Johnny, you can tell it to your grandchildren because you will know it's true, and they will tell it to their grandchildren." My grandmother was one of the grandchildren to whom he told the story, and when she told it to me, she would say, "and so I tell it to you in the language, chiefly, in which I heard it."
[1] Richard Stout and his wife Penelope were my 8th great grandparents thru the Devor line and my 10th great grandparents thru the Riley line. (Ed Sanders)

The DeWittGenWeb Project home
Taylor Family
William H. Taylor
William H. Taylor, for many years one of the prominent and honored residents of Clinton who in the face of difficulties won success and yet to whose name there was never attached the slightest taint of dishonor, passed from this life in 1905. He was at that time sixty-nine years of age, his birth having occurred in Muskingum county, Ohio, June 4, 1836. The Taylor family is of English origin and the ancestry is traced back to Edward Taylor who came from London to America in 1692 and settled in New Jersey at a place called Garret's Hill but in later years known as Pigeon Hill. This place is a prominent landmark and can be seen from all parts of the lower harbor of New York. The Taylor family was related by marriage to Sir George Carteret, proprietor of East New Jersey, and through him the Taylors acquired large landed estates in Monmouth and Somerset counties, New Jersey.
Henry Taylor, the father of William H. Taylor was a native of Delaware and a second cousin of Zachary Taylor who was elected president of the United States after having rendered a brilliant service to the country in commanding of the American forces in Louisiana and Texas and in the Mexican war, after which he proceeded southward into Mexico and there defeated Santa Anna in the crowning battle of this campaign at Buena Vista.
Henry Taylor devoted much of his life to merchandising. He removed from Delaware to Somerset county, Ohio, there living until 1853, when he came to Illinois, settling in Clinton which was then a small town of little industrial or commercial importance. He joined George Bell and Henry Litzembarger [sic] in purchasing the ground upon which the Magill House now stands and there erected a two-story frame building in which he opened a general store. In 1857 the building and its contents were destroyed by fire but later he again became a factor in commercial circles in connection with his sons and they continued in business until the panic of 1873 when, like hundreds of others, they were overcome by financial reverses. Thus for a second time Henry Taylor lost all he had. Soon afterward he opened a coal business at the corner where his grandson, Walter M. Taylor, is now continuing in the same line of business. His son, Fletcher Taylor, was associated with him for some time and afterward succeeded to the business which he conducted until he sold out the firm of William H. Taylor & Son. Henry Taylor continued a resident of Clinton from the time of his arrival here in 1853 until his death in 1891. He was at that time seventy-seven years of age and his wife passed away in 1898 at the age of eighty years.
The youthful days of William H. Taylor were passed in the place of his nativity up to the age of seventeen years during which period he acquired his education in the public schools. In 1853, he came to Illinois with his parents, Henry and Mary (Miller) Taylor, who settled in Clinton. As previously stated, his father established a store and William H. Taylor assisted him in its conduct until 1857. He afterward opened a shoe store in the rear of his father's store. After the building was burned he became a partner of a Mr. Toury in the same business and so continued until 1861 when his patriotic spirit prompted him to put aside all business and personal considerations and he offered his services to the government, enlisting as a member of Company F, Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry. The following year he was made second lieutenant, six months later he became first lieutenant and was afterward promoted to the rank of adjutant. His military experience covered three years and one month, during which time he participated in a number of hotly contested battles and met all of the hardships and rigors of war. Following his return from the army he again became connected with merchandising in Clinton, carrying on the business until 1872 when he again lost all of his property but paid all of his obligations at the rate of one hundred cents on the dollar. He then sought and obtained a position as traveling salesman for a wholesale grocery house and from that time until his death remained continuously upon the road, covering a period of about twenty-three years. In the meantime he again prospered for, as opportunity offered, he made investments in property and became the owner of considerable valuable real estate which included the Magill House, worth about fifty thousand dollars, his residence on Main street, and also valuable holdings on East Washington street. When he went upon the road he possessed an indebtedness of ten thousand dollars with a salary of but thirty dollars per month. With resolute spirit that was most commendable and with unflinching honor that has ever been unassailable, he resolved that he would meet every obligation and each year saw a larger portion of his indebtedness wiped out until he stood clear of all incumberance and ready again to take up the work of building up his own fortune. This he did until at his death his estate was valued at about one hundred thousand dollars.
Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to Miss Lucy Merrell, a native of Ohio and a daughter of James Merrell, who was likewise born in the Buckeye state and after arriving at years of maturity wedded a Miss Baker. At an early day they removed westward to Clinton where Mr. Merrell became the owner of considerable property but lived retired from the active management of his business affairs. Soon afterward he and his wife removed to Champaign, Illinois where they both passed away at an advanced age. Their children were: Frank, Lucy, Lucinda, and Kate. Of these Lucy became the wife of William H. Taylor and the mother of three children but only one is now living; Walter M. Taylor, a well known business man of Clinton. The others died in childhood. Mrs. Lucy Taylor passed away in 1872 at the age of thirty-four years and in 1874 Mr. Taylor was again married, his second union being with Miss Jennie Rennick who survives him. They became the parents of three children: Nellie, who was the wife of Dr. C. S. Bogardus, died in 1901 at the age of twenty-five years; William, who was connected with the United States Army in the Philippines, and Edward M., an employee of the Illinois Central Railroad Company, living in Clinton.
Mr. Taylor was one of the devoted and prominent members of the Methodist Church, doing all in his power to promote its growth and extend its influence. He gave liberally to its support and took great pleasure in its prosperity and progress. He held membership in Frank Lowry Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and for half a century was an exemplary member of the Masonic fraternity. He held the most important offices in the church and in the lodges with which he was connected, but he never sought or desired political preferment although he gave earnest support at the polls to the republican party. Few men were as widely known in central Illinois and none were held in more favorable regard. He was recognized as a strong man-strong in his honor and good name, strong in his ability to plan and perform. He possessed a genial social nature that made him popular and the strength of his character and his high ideals were manifest in the honorable course which he pursued following his failure in meeting every obligation that devolved upon him. No man suffered loss at his hands and his commercial integrity as well as his private honor remained unsullied throughout the years of an active and useful career.
History of DeWitt County, pgs. 128-130
1860 Illinois Census
DeWitt County (Clinton Twp.)
Page: 586; Line: 22; Dwelling: 694; Family 675
Henry Taylor — 46 — M — Merchant — 8000 — 10,000 — Del.
Mary Taylor — 44 — F — Pa.
Nellie Taylor — 19 — F — O(hio).
Homer Taylor — 17 — M — O(hio). — Attended School
Fletcher Taylor — 15 —M. — O(hio). — Attended School
Frank Taylor — 5 — M — ILL.
Anna H. Taylor — 1 — F — ILL.
1860 Illinois Census
DeWitt County (Wilson Twp.)
Page: 680; Line 36; Dwelling: 1351; Family 1329
George S. Taylor — 25 — M — Farmer — 1600 — 700 — Ohio
Mary J. Taylor — 22 — F — ILL.
John H. Taylor — 4 — M — ILL.
Eva K. Taylor — 1 — F — ILL.
Children of Henry Taylor and Mary Miller are:
i. George S. Taylor, b. August 10, 1834, Lancaster County, OH; d. July 06, 1911, Pana, Christian Co., IL.; m. Mary Jane Wolfe, June 17, 1855; b. July 06, 1837, Bond County, IL.; d. August 02, 1935, Decatur, Macon County, IL.; occupation: Farmer.
ii. Nellie Taylor, b. 1841.
iii. Homer Taylor, b. 1843
iv. Fletcher Taylor, b. 1845.
v. Frank Taylor, b.1855.
vi. Anna Taylor, b. 1859.
Submitted by Mary Vanderheydt
Transcribed by Sheryl Byrd
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Henry N. Taylor info

According to The Biographical Record of DeWitt County, Illinois, Nathaniel Taylor was Henry N. Taylor's grandfather, not his father as we have though. This may explain why we had such a difficult time locating him in records. Nathaniel Taylor would show up, but in the wrong time period. We may now know that some of those records may be correct and perhaps can find Henry's father in the records somewhere, and perhaps we can also find out the name of the Taylor that settled in Delaware being as he was Nathaniel's father.

Edward Taylor c/o George Carteret c/o Matthew Taylor

New Jersey Biographical Sketches, 1665-1800 Record
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Name:
Matthew Taylor
Text:
Matthew Taylor, said to have been a distant connection of Sir George Carteret, came to New Jersey to speculate in lands, and dying in New York in 1687 without issue devised his lands to his brother Edward, then living in London. The latter came to America in 1692, and bought an additional tract of about 1,000 acres at Garret's Hill, Middletown, and settled on it. He died in 1710, leaving four sons and one daughter. George, one of his sons, resided at Garret's Hill, and died there, leaving three sons--George, Edward and John.--Hist. Monmouth Co., by Franklin Ellis, Philadelphia, 1885, 524. The John Taylor just mentioned, son of George, son of Richard, was born in 1716, and was known as 'Squire John. He lived at Upper Freehold. There was a John Taylor High Sheriff of Monmouth County in 1753, doubtless the same man, although the writer just quoted says the Sheriff was the son of Edward, and nephew of 'Squire John, which is obviously improbable. In 1754 he was an unsuccessful candidate for the Assembly.--N. J. Archives, XIX., 382. Being a man of large wealth, and presumably of influence in the community, he was selected by Lord Howe, when he came to America to offer terms to those in arms, to be "His Majesty's Lord High Commissioner of New Jersey." This arrayed his patriotic neighbors against him, and he was compelled to join his British friends in New York, while his property was applied to the uses of the Continental forces. His lands in Monmouth County were advertised to be sold in 1779. After the war he returned to New Jersey. He died at Perth Amboy, aged 82 years. His daughter Mary married Dr. Absalom Bainbridge, and two of her sons distinguished themselves in the War of 1812, in the United States Navy--Commodore William Bainbridge, and Post-Captain Joseph Bainbridge. The early education of the future Commodore was superintended by his maternal grandfather, John Taylor.--Old Times in Old Monmouth, 48; Life of Commodore Bainbridge, 3.

More info for Henry Taylor

The DeWittGenWeb Project home
Taylor Family
William H. Taylor
William H. Taylor, for many years one of the prominent and honored residents of Clinton who in the face of difficulties won success and yet to whose name there was never attached the slightest taint of dishonor, passed from this life in 1905. He was at that time sixty-nine years of age, his birth having occurred in Muskingum county, Ohio, June 4, 1836. The Taylor family is of English origin and the ancestry is traced back to Edward Taylor who came from London to America in 1692 and settled in New Jersey at a place called Garret's Hill but in later years known as Pigeon Hill. This place is a prominent landmark and can be seen from all parts of the lower harbor of New York. The Taylor family was related by marriage to Sir George Carteret, proprietor of East New Jersey, and through him the Taylors acquired large landed estates in Monmouth and Somerset counties, New Jersey.
Henry Taylor, the father of William H. Taylor was a native of Delaware and a second cousin of Zachary Taylor who was elected president of the United States after having rendered a brilliant service to the country in commanding of the American forces in Louisiana and Texas and in the Mexican war, after which he proceeded southward into Mexico and there defeated Santa Anna in the crowning battle of this campaign at Buena Vista.
Henry Taylor devoted much of his life to merchandising. He removed from Delaware to Somerset county, Ohio, there living until 1853, when he came to Illinois, settling in Clinton which was then a small town of little industrial or commercial importance. He joined George Bell and Henry Litzembarger [sic] in purchasing the ground upon which the Magill House now stands and there erected a two-story frame building in which he opened a general store. In 1857 the building and its contents were destroyed by fire but later he again became a factor in commercial circles in connection with his sons and they continued in business until the panic of 1873 when, like hundreds of others, they were overcome by financial reverses. Thus for a second time Henry Taylor lost all he had. Soon afterward he opened a coal business at the corner where his grandson, Walter M. Taylor, is now continuing in the same line of business. His son, Fletcher Taylor, was associated with him for some time and afterward succeeded to the business which he conducted until he sold out the firm of William H. Taylor & Son. Henry Taylor continued a resident of Clinton from the time of his arrival here in 1853 until his death in 1891. He was at that time seventy-seven years of age and his wife passed away in 1898 at the age of eighty years.
The youthful days of William H. Taylor were passed in the place of his nativity up to the age of seventeen years during which period he acquired his education in the public schools. In 1853, he came to Illinois with his parents, Henry and Mary (Miller) Taylor, who settled in Clinton. As previously stated, his father established a store and William H. Taylor assisted him in its conduct until 1857. He afterward opened a shoe store in the rear of his father's store. After the building was burned he became a partner of a Mr. Toury in the same business and so continued until 1861 when his patriotic spirit prompted him to put aside all business and personal considerations and he offered his services to the government, enlisting as a member of Company F, Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry. The following year he was made second lieutenant, six months later he became first lieutenant and was afterward promoted to the rank of adjutant. His military experience covered three years and one month, during which time he participated in a number of hotly contested battles and met all of the hardships and rigors of war. Following his return from the army he again became connected with merchandising in Clinton, carrying on the business until 1872 when he again lost all of his property but paid all of his obligations at the rate of one hundred cents on the dollar. He then sought and obtained a position as traveling salesman for a wholesale grocery house and from that time until his death remained continuously upon the road, covering a period of about twenty-three years. In the meantime he again prospered for, as opportunity offered, he made investments in property and became the owner of considerable valuable real estate which included the Magill House, worth about fifty thousand dollars, his residence on Main street, and also valuable holdings on East Washington street. When he went upon the road he possessed an indebtedness of ten thousand dollars with a salary of but thirty dollars per month. With resolute spirit that was most commendable and with unflinching honor that has ever been unassailable, he resolved that he would meet every obligation and each year saw a larger portion of his indebtedness wiped out until he stood clear of all incumberance and ready again to take up the work of building up his own fortune. This he did until at his death his estate was valued at about one hundred thousand dollars.
Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to Miss Lucy Merrell, a native of Ohio and a daughter of James Merrell, who was likewise born in the Buckeye state and after arriving at years of maturity wedded a Miss Baker. At an early day they removed westward to Clinton where Mr. Merrell became the owner of considerable property but lived retired from the active management of his business affairs. Soon afterward he and his wife removed to Champaign, Illinois where they both passed away at an advanced age. Their children were: Frank, Lucy, Lucinda, and Kate. Of these Lucy became the wife of William H. Taylor and the mother of three children but only one is now living; Walter M. Taylor, a well known business man of Clinton. The others died in childhood. Mrs. Lucy Taylor passed away in 1872 at the age of thirty-four years and in 1874 Mr. Taylor was again married, his second union being with Miss Jennie Rennick who survives him. They became the parents of three children: Nellie, who was the wife of Dr. C. S. Bogardus, died in 1901 at the age of twenty-five years; William, who was connected with the United States Army in the Philippines, and Edward M., an employee of the Illinois Central Railroad Company, living in Clinton.
Mr. Taylor was one of the devoted and prominent members of the Methodist Church, doing all in his power to promote its growth and extend its influence. He gave liberally to its support and took great pleasure in its prosperity and progress. He held membership in Frank Lowry Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and for half a century was an exemplary member of the Masonic fraternity. He held the most important offices in the church and in the lodges with which he was connected, but he never sought or desired political preferment although he gave earnest support at the polls to the republican party. Few men were as widely known in central Illinois and none were held in more favorable regard. He was recognized as a strong man-strong in his honor and good name, strong in his ability to plan and perform. He possessed a genial social nature that made him popular and the strength of his character and his high ideals were manifest in the honorable course which he pursued following his failure in meeting every obligation that devolved upon him. No man suffered loss at his hands and his commercial integrity as well as his private honor remained unsullied throughout the years of an active and useful career.
History of DeWitt County, pgs. 128-130
1860 Illinois Census
DeWitt County (Clinton Twp.)
Page: 586; Line: 22; Dwelling: 694; Family 675
Henry Taylor — 46 — M — Merchant — 8000 — 10,000 — Del.
Mary Taylor — 44 — F — Pa.
Nellie Taylor — 19 — F — O(hio).
Homer Taylor — 17 — M — O(hio). — Attended School
Fletcher Taylor — 15 —M. — O(hio). — Attended School
Frank Taylor — 5 — M — ILL.
Anna H. Taylor — 1 — F — ILL.
1860 Illinois Census
DeWitt County (Wilson Twp.)
Page: 680; Line 36; Dwelling: 1351; Family 1329
George S. Taylor — 25 — M — Farmer — 1600 — 700 — Ohio
Mary J. Taylor — 22 — F — ILL.
John H. Taylor — 4 — M — ILL.
Eva K. Taylor — 1 — F — ILL.
Children of Henry Taylor and Mary Miller are:
i. George S. Taylor, b. August 10, 1834, Lancaster County, OH; d. July 06, 1911, Pana, Christian Co., IL.; m. Mary Jane Wolfe, June 17, 1855; b. July 06, 1837, Bond County, IL.; d. August 02, 1935, Decatur, Macon County, IL.; occupation: Farmer.
ii. Nellie Taylor, b. 1841.
iii. Homer Taylor, b. 1843
iv. Fletcher Taylor, b. 1845.
v. Frank Taylor, b.1855.
vi. Anna Taylor, b. 1859.
Submitted by Mary Vanderheydt
Transcribed by Sheryl Byrd
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© 2006 SA Byrd and J Simpson
The DeWittGenWeb Project

Nathaniel Taylor c/o his grandson William H. Taylor

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The Biographical Record of DeWitt County, Illinois, Illustrated.
Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1901.

Submitted by Judy Simpson

Note: These biographies were transcribed as written and may contain errors. We welcome your corrections concerning factual data. Just send an e-mail to the County Coordinator or Assistant Coordinator, and be sure to give us your name and return e-mail address.


WILLIAM H. TAYLOR. (Volume 1, Page 285)

William H. Taylor, who is one of Clinton's representative citizens and a popular traveling salesman, was born on the 4th of June, 1836, in Muskingum county, Ohio, and is a son of Henry and Mary E. (Miller) Taylor. History records that there were four brothers of the Taylor family who came to this country from Scotland, one locating in Pennsylvania, another in Delaware, and the third in Virginia, while the fourth, being a sea captain, was lost at sea. Nathaniel Taylor, our subject's paternal grandfather, was a son of the one who settled in Delaware. He married and throughout life followed farming.

Henry Taylor, our subject's father, was born in Delaware and in early life emigrated to Ohio, where he wedded Miss Mary E. Miller, a native of Pennsylvania. In 1853 they came to Clinton, Illinois, which was then a small town, and in company with Henry and George Bell and Henry Lutzenbarger, Mr. Taylor purchased the vacant corner where the Magill House now stands, and erected a large two-story frame building, which they stocked with general merchandise, being successfully engaged in business there until 1857, when a fire destroyed their store and it contents. Later Mr. Taylor, in partnership with A. J. Blackford, rented a building and again embarked in merchandising, under the firm name of Taylor & Blackford, but during the panic of 1873, they failed and he again lost everything. Nothing daunted, however, he opened a small coal office, where our subject's son, Walter, is now carrying on business, and his son, Fletcher, became associated with him in 1880 and later succeeded to the business. He was a strong man, both physically and mentally, and although he twice met with misfortune in business he always gave liberally of his means to all enterprises for the public good. His fellow citizens recognizing his worth and ability called upon him to fill many official positions. Both he and his wife were active members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and were highly respected and esteemed by all who knew them. He died in 1891, at the age of seventy-seven years, and she departed this life in 1898, when over eighty years of age. Their children were George; William H.; Samuel K.; Mary E.; Homer B.; John T., who died in infancy; Fletcher C.; a daughter who died in infancy; Frank Z.; and Annie.

William H. Taylor, of this review, came to Clinton with his parents, and assisted his father in business until 1857, when he opened a shoe store in the rear of his father's place of business. After the fire which destroyed their property, he formed a partnership with Mr. Toury, and carried on the same line of business until after the Civil war broke out. In 1861, Mr. Taylor enlisted in Company F, Forty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was promoted to second lieutenant on the 1st of October of the same year, after which he served as adjutant of the regiment. He was in the service three years and one month. Being six feet in height, broad shouldered and of fine physique, his was a commanding figure, and he made a handsome officer. Those who served under him still speak in glowing terms of their first lieutenant.

On his return from the war Mr. Taylor again engaged in the general store business until 1872, when he went upon the road as a traveling salesman for the grocery house of Harmon, Merrian & Company of Chicago, which since the death of Mr. Harmon has become Merrian, Collins & Dexter. During the years that have since passed Mr. Taylor has remained in their employ, having now been with them almost a quarter of a century. In 1868 the Magill Brothers built what is known as the Magill House, which is a large three-story brick structure on North Center street, extending from the square to Washington street. This our subject bought in 1898, and has since remodeled and enlarged it by building a thirty-two-foot addition on the west. It is to to-day a good modern hotel—the best in the city. For his home he purchased the Coverdale property at 1006 East Main street, which is a beautiful place, the elegant residence being surrounded by wide lawns, shady drives, lovely trees and shrubs. His first home was on the corner of Washington and Jackson streets.

Mr. Taylor has been twice married, his first wife being Lucy, daughter of James H. Merrill, and to them were born three children: Walter M., whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume; Emma, who died young; and Lula, who died in infancy. The wife and mother died in 1873, at the age of thirty-four years. In 1875 Mr. Taylor married Miss Jennie Rennick, by whom he also had three children: Nellie married Dr. Charles Bogardus, a prominent physician of Clinton, and died in 1901, at the age of twenty-five years. She was one of the leading young ladies of the city and very popular. William H. enlisted in 1900 as a private in Company D, Thirteenth United States Regiment, and is now serving at Dangupon, Philippine Islands. Edward M. was also in the service, enlisting at Denver, Colorado, in May, 1898, in the first Colorado Infantry, at the first call for troops to be sent to Manilla. With his regiment he started for San Francisco, May 17, and on the 14th of June, on the steamer China, for Honolulu. On the 4th of July they stopped at Wakes Island, where General Green and Colonel Hill planted the United States flag, and fourteen days later landed at Camp Dewey, on the Island of Luzon, seven miles from the city of Manilla. There they began throwing up entrenchments within one hundred and twenty-five yards of the enemy's lines. They took part in the famous battle of Manilla, and the battles of Hesty, Manquena, Antapelo and Paranaque, besides many skirmishes, being under fire most of the time. On the 4th of July, 1900, they received orders at Manilla to embark for home, and arrived at San Francisco on the 10th of August. Edward M. Taylor was mustered out on the 8th of the following September and returned home. In 1901 he opened a grocery store in Clinton, in connection with his brother Walter H. [should be M.], and is now conducting the same. He can relate many thrilling experiences of his life in the Philippines, which if written would make a very fascinating book.

Fraternally Mr. Taylor is a member of Lodge No. 84, F. & A. M., of which he was master three terms, and was a member and high priest of the Chapter. He is now serving as trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church, with which the family have been connected for several generations, and have always been active church workers. Our subject has never cared for office, but has always taken a commendable interest in all enterprises calculated to advance the welfare of the city which has now been his home for almost fifty years.