state legislature before the erection of this county. The new state constitution, adopted in 1847, provided for one county judge in each county - except the county of New York - who alone held the county court, which was thus made to supplant the court of common pleas. The county judge also, together with two justices of the peace, called justices for sessions, holds the court of sessions, having limited criminal jurisdiction within the county which, in turn, since January 1, 1847, has supplanted the court of general sessions or general sessions of the peace.
     Courts of probate, or what are known as Surrogate's courts, has also been instituted throughout the state prior to 1796, by common law jurisdiction and by an act of legislation passed February 20, 1787, and by legislative acts subsequent thereto. These courts had, originally, general jurisdiction of the probate of wills, administration of decedents' estates, and of all controversies relating thereto. The original statute of 1787 provided for the appointment of a sole surrogate in and for each county by the governor of the state and the council of appointment, to serve during the pleasure of such council. The revised statutes of 1830 authorized the nomination and appointment of surrogates by the governor of the state, with the consent of the state senate, and fixed the tenure of their office at a term of four years. Surrogates in and for each respective county continued to be appointed, with some subsequent modifications and conditions, until the new state constitution of 1847.
     Courts of justices of the peace, having specific and limited jurisdiction of petty civil controversies, and courts of general sessions of the peace, held by justices of the peace, having jurisdiction of petty crimes and misdemeanors, were also inaugurated throughout the various counties of the state at the time of the organization of this county; and they are still continued, having nearly the same general jurisdiction of petty crimes and misdemeanors, and now denominated courts of special sessions. Justices of the peace were originally appointed by the governor of the state and the council of appointment under provision of the constitution of  1777; and their tenure of office was during the pleasure of the council of appointment, with the further requirement that commissions of appointment should be issued at least once in three years. Justices of the peace continued to be appointed until the amendments to the state constitution, ratified in November, 1826, since which time they have been chosen by the electors within the various towns of the state. The tenure of office is now for a term of four years.
     Steuben county is twenty-third in the order of the erection of the counties of the state. After its organization the Steuben county bar naturally came into existence. Says McMaster: "A few straggling birds of legal feather had alighted on the Pine Plains in the preceeding

year, but were not recognized as constituting a distinct and independent confederacy."
     The first arrival is said to have been George D.Cooper, of Rhinebeck, on the Hudson, who was appointed first clerk of the county. The next arrivals were Messrs. David Jones, Peter Masterton, Thomas Morris, Stephen Ross, David Powers and William Verplank, who were followed by William Howe Cuyler, of Albany.
     William Kersey, a Quaker from Philadelphia, was the first presiding judge. He came to Steuben as a surveyor and practiced that profession besides performing the duties of judge of the county for several years. Abraham Bradley and Eleazer Lindsley were associate judges. The record declares:
     "Proclamation made and court opened. Proclamation made for silence; commissions to the Judges, Justices, Sheriff, Coroner and Surrogate read; George Hornell, Uriah Stephens, and Abel White were  qualified for Justices of the peace; Stephen Ross as Surrogate."
     The assembling of court at Bath in the early days, oftentimes was attended with perplexing difficulties to the inhabitants, who were obliged to furnish sustenance to the large number attending. We are told that  Colonel Williamson transported his first flour from Northumberland, and his pork from Philadelphia. Afterward these luxuries were obtained nearer home. Flour was brought on pack-horses from Tioga Point, and from the Friends Settlement, over which the prophetess Jemima Wilkinson presided, where a mill was early established. Notwithstanding these resources, during times of public gatherings, Bath was often reduced to great straits, and provisions brought an exhorbitant price.
     "The Canisteo boy brought over his bag of wheat on a horse, threw it down at the door of the agency-house, and was paid five dollars the bushel. He drove his bullock across the hills, slaughtered it at the edge of the village, and sold everything from hoof to horn for a shilling a pound. He led over a pack-horse laden with grain, paid all expenses, treated, and took home eighteen dollars. One old farmer remembers paying two dollars and a half for a hog's head, 'and it was half hair at that.' 'Bath was just like San Francisco,' says an old settler on the comfortable farms of Pleasant Valley, 'straw was a shilling a bunch and everything else in proportion. Money was plenty, but they almost starved out. They once adjourned court because there was nothing to eat. If it had not been for the Valley, the Pine Plains would have been depopulated. After the court had been in session two or three days, you would see a black boy come down here on a horse, with a big basket foraging. He would go around to all the farms to get bread, meat, eggs, or anything that would stay life. Bath was the hungriest place in creation.
     "The citizens of the county made court week a kind of general gathering time, and the larders of Bath were sometimes speedily exhausted. The prudent juryman, before setting out from home, slung over his shoulder a bag containing a piece of cold pork, and a huge loaf of

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they know, and as the law makes it our duty, I charge you to look out for them. Sheriff, select two constables and march these men off of their duties."
     General Haight, Hon. Vincent Matthews and Gen. Daniel Cruger were early and eminent members of the Steuben county bar. Brief sketches of these men have been furnished by Mr. A. J. McCall, and will be found in the history of the town of Bath.
     Judge Henry Welles was born in Kinderhook, N. Y., October 30, 1794. He participated in the war of 1812, and was elected sergeant, and soon after promoted to the rank of ensign. He studied law in the office of Hon. Vincent Matthews, and was admitted to the bar in 1817. In 1824 he was appointed district attorney of Steuben county.
     Hon. Edward Howell was born in Newburgh, Orange county, N. Y., October 16, 1792, at which place and in New York city his early years were passed. He came to the town of Bath in 1811, and until 1816 was engaged in farming, in teaching school and in mercantile business. In 1818 he was appointed county clerk, and soon after post-master of the village of Bath. In 1823 he was admitted as an attorney in the supreme court and in chancery, and three years later as counsellor in these courts. In 1829 he was appointed district attorney, and was elected to the assembly in 1832. In 1833 he was elected to congress, when he resigned the office of district attorney, to which he was reappointed in June, 1836. He was soon after appointed a supreme court commissioner. He died January 30, 1871.
     William Howell, brother of the above, began the practice of law in Bath in 1830. He was born in Newburgh, October 3, 1804.
     Hon. Robert Campbell, son of Robert Campbell, Sr., was born at Bath in May, 1808. After a preparory course of study he spent some time at Hobart College, Geneva, and in 1826 commenced the study of law in the office of Howell & Cruger. He was admitted to practice in 1829. His devotion to his profession induced him for many years to decline political preferment. In 1842 he refused to accept the nomination for senator, which was tendered him by the Democratic senatorial convention. The legislature, in 1846, elected him a member of the Board of Regents of the State University, and he held the office at the time of his death. In 1846 he was elected a delegate to the constitutional convention, and did efficient service in that important body. He was twice in succession elected lieutenant-governor of New York - in 1858 and in 1860 - and presided over the deliberations of the senate with great dignity and ability.
     Hon. David McMaster was admitted in 1827, and began the practice of law in Bath the same year. A sketch of his life is given in the history of Bath.

     Hon. Thomas A. Johnson was born in Blandford, Mass., May 15, 1804. In his early boyhood his parents removed to Colesville, Broome county, N. Y. As soon as he was old enough he spent his winters in teaching district school and in reading and study. He studied law with Hon. Robert Monell, of Greene, Chenango county, and soon after admission to the bar he removed to Centreville, near Corning, which was then the business centre of that section. As business moved eastward he removed to Knoxville, and in 1839 became one of the first residents of the village of Corning, where he built one of the most substantial houses in the place at that time, and in which he resided until his death. In 1841 he was appointed land commissioner for the Erie railroad. With Simeon Hammond under the firm-name of Hammond & Johnson he was half owner of the water-power and mill property which was formerly located just east of Corning, and was interested in the same at the time of his death, as one of the firm of Johnson, Brough and Bostwick. In 1847 he was elected to the office of justice of the supreme court for the seventh judicial district, and was re-elected when his term expired, and twice afterward, and thus held the office for twenty-five years. At the time of his death he was the senior justice of the supreme court of the state of New York. Judge Johnson always took an active interest in building up and fostering the various business and social interests of his village. As a judge, no man of the past or present generation has been held in higher esteem for integrity and judicial ability. He received the honorary degree of L. L. D. from Hobart College, Geneva. Judge Johnson died December 5, 1872.
     Hon. David Rumsey was born in Salem, Washington county, N. Y., December 25, 1810. His father David Rumsey, Sr., born April 17, 1779, was a printer by occupation, and with Messrs. Dodd and Stevenson, of Salem, established the "Washington County Post," one of the earliest newspapers published in that section of the state. David Rumsey was brought to Bath by his parents at the age of six years. He began the study of law at the age of nineteen in the office of Hon. Henry Welles, and was admitted in 1831. He discharged the office of the surrogate of Steuben county for four years, having been appointed by Governor Seward in 1840. In 1846 he was elected to congress, and was re-elected in 1848. On January 7, 1873, he was appointed by Governor Dix one of the justices of the supreme court to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Hon. Thomas A. Johnson. In November, 1873, he was elected by the people to fill the same honorable position. His son, Hon. William Rumsey, who served through the late war, is now a justice of the supreme court of this district.
     John Baldwin was born in Lebanon, Conn., and while very young settled in Geneseo, Livingston county. He studied law and was ad

mitted, and after practicing in Livingston county, came to Hornellsville in 1835 and formed a partnership with the late Hon. William M. Hawley. He practiced in Hornellsville until 1842, when he removed to Almond, at which place he died the following year.
     Hon. William M. Hawley was born in the county of Delaware, February 13, 1802. He early evinced a desire for knowledge, and the few advantages within his reach were eagerly seized by him and turned to best account. He early conceived the thought that he should one day become a lawyer, and this idea was the theme of his ambition, the controlling motive of his life. Upon reaching his majority he removed to Almond, Allegany county. Subsequently he entered his name as a student in the office of George Miles, then a leading member of the Allegany bar. As his means did not admit of his devoting his whole time to the office, he pursued his studies at home when relieved from other duties. In due time he completed his studies and was admitted. In the fall of 1837, he removed to Hornellsville. In January, 1846, he was appointed by Gov. Silas Wright first judge of Steuben county. He held this office little over one year, when he was elected to the state senate. After returning from the senate Judge Hawley never again sought for official positions,  but confined himself exclusively to his profession. He died February 9, 1869.
     Hon. Joseph G. Masten was a son-in-law of Dugald Cameron, and a lawyer who attained to considerable distinction. He came to Bath in 1832. About four years later he removed to Buffalo, where he became mayor of the city, and justice of the superior court. He died in Buffalo in 1872.
     Henry W. Rogers came to Bath from Delaware county about 1827. He read law with Hon. Henry Welles, and became a partner with Hon. David McMaster. Subsequently he formed a partnership with Mr. Masten and practiced with him until they both removed to Buffalo. He afterward lived at Ann Arbor, Mich.
     Vincent Matthews Coryell was admitted to the practice of law in Bath in 1822, and was for a short time a partner with Judge Welles. He subsequently became a Methodist clergyman and died but a short time since at Waverly, N. Y. He was a son-in-law of Dugald Cameron.
     Schuyler S. Strong came from Orange county, N. Y. In December, 1822, he formed a partnership with Hon. William Woods, and in 1824 became associated with Hon. Edward Howell in the practice of law. He removed to Springfield, Ill., where he died in 1843.
     Anson Gibbs was also a practicing attorney at Bath in 1820 and 1821. He removed to Ellicottville, Cattaraugus county.
     John Cook was also an attorney at Bath for many years, and died there. He was appointed district attorney, February 19, 1821.

     Hon. Samuel H. Hammond, a son of Lazarus Hammond, the founder of Hammondsport, was educated at Franklin Academy, Prattsburgh. He studied law with General Haight, at Angelica, and finished in the office of Cruger and Howell, at Bath. He was admitted in 1831. After practicing for a while at Baldwinsville, N. Y., he returned to Bath, and in 1836, formed a partnership with Hon. Robert Campbell which lasted until 1842. The year following he opened an office in Albany and was there elected district attorney. In 1853 he commenced editing the "Albany Register," and closed his connection with that paper in 1856. He afterward practiced law in company with Hon. William Irvine, of Corning, and in November, 1857, became a partner of A. P. Ferris, at Bath. In 1859 he was elected to the state senate. In 1864 he removed to Watertown, N. Y., where he died in November, 1878.
     Hon. Washington Barnes settled quite early at Painted Post, studied law with Thomas A. Johnson of Corning, and was admitted in 1836. He afterward practicd law five years in partnership with Ansel J. McCall of Bath. He died in Bath in 1868.
     Hon. Guy Humphreys McMaster was born in 1829, and admitted in 1852. An extended biographical sketch accompanies his portrait in the history of Bath.
     Horace Bemis was born in Windham county, Vt., in September, 1827. His parents were the children of participants in the struggle for independence. Of Puritan stock, he was the eighth descendant on his mother's side from Henry Dunster, first president of Harvard College, Cambridge, Mass., who was inaugurated August 27, 1640, and who held the position until 1654. Having learned the trade of saddler and harness-maker, in order that he might be self-supporting, Mr. Bemis moved from his home in Dummerston, Vt., to Saratoga, N. Y. Here he worked at his trade, and with the money thus earned, afterward attended the High School at Brattleboro, Vt., and thereafter taught school and engaged in the study of law. He moved to Adrian, Mich., where he was admitted to practice. Here he became the intimate friend and associate of Thomas M. Cooley, then a young lawyer, but afterward Chief Justice. In 1850 Mr. Bemis came to Hornellsville, and taught school for several winters, and practiced whenever an opportunity offered. He was a member of the legislature for two terms, representing the then third assembly district, of Steuben county in the assembly in 1863 and 1865. No man had a more natural aptitude for the profession of law than he; and no man ever exhibited more zeal and industry in the preparation of a case in which he was interested. He liked the practice of criminal law, where his quick perceptions and his ingenuity in dealing with facts made him very successful, and his masterly eloquence rarely failed to move a jury. He was the associate and peer of

David Rumsey, John K. Hale, William M. Hawley, Washington Barnes, John Maynard, Guy H. McMaster, all of whom were bright ornaments of the Steuben county bar. Mr. Bemis was twice married, first to Miss Caroline Bruce, who died in 1867. In 1868 he married Miss Sarah Washburn.
     Alfred P. Ferris was born n Milo, Yates county, November 29, 1818. He attended Franklin Academy, Prattsburgh, and came to Bath in 1840. He was admitted in 1843. At a special election under the new constitution in June, 1847, he was elected district attorney and held the office until January 1, 1851.
     Hon. William E. Bonham was born at Painted Post, read law with Washington Barnes of Bath, with whom he subsequently practiced for some time, in partnership. In 1864 - 65 he was a member of the legislature. He practiced for some years in Hornellsville.
     Hon. L. H. Read, whose ancestors were among the early settlers in the town of Urbana, studied law in Bath, and after being admitted, practiced in Hammondsport. About 1839 he moved to Bath and became a law partner of Hon. David McMaster. In 1850 President Fillmore appointed him Chief Justice of Utah. After one year he returned to Bath, where he died in 1853.
     Hon. Ziba A. Leland was a native of New England, and was educated at Williams College. He came to Bath about 1822. In 1838 he was appointed judge of the old court of common pleas, as the successor of Judge Edwards, who died in November, 1837. He removed from this county to Auburn, and died in Mechanicsville, Saratoga county, about 1873.
     Hon. Andrew G. Chatfield was for quite a number of years a practicing attorney at Addison. He was member of assembly from this county in 1839, 1840, 1841 and in 1846, and was district attorney in 1845. He subsequently removed to Minnesota where he became a justice of the United States district court, and where he died not many years since.
     Hon. F. R. E. Cornell also practiced law in Addison. He, too, removed to Minnesota where he became attorney general of the state. 
     Charles H. Thomson was born in Belchertown, Mass., August 31, 1830. He entered Hamilton College at the age of sixteen. At the expiration of his freshman year he entered Williams College, from which institution he graduated in 1850. In September, the same year, he came to Corning and became a student in the office of Hon. George T. Spencer, and was admitted to practice in March, 1853, and at once became a partner with Judge Spencer. He was postmaster of the village of Corning from 1861 to 1872. For many years he was chairman of the Republican county committee, and as member of the Republican state

committee had the entire superintendence of the soldiers' vote in 1864. He was prominently identified with politics, and always interested in important national questions.
     R. L. Brundage located in Hornellsville as an attorney in 1846. He was born in Sussex county, N. J., in May, 1819. His parents came to this county and settled in Bath in 1824, removing to Greenwood in 1830. Mr. Brundage commenced the study of law with Hon. John K. Hale, of Hornellsville, in 1840, and in 1846 was admitted to practice. In 1852 he was elected district attorney. He continued in active practice until 1866, when he was employed as attorney and claim agent by the Erie railroad company.
     Hon. John K. Hale was born in the state of Maine. He first settled in Addison and came to Hornellsville in 1836, where for more than twenty years he was at the head of the Hornellsville bar. In 1856-57 he was a member of the state senate and shortly afterward removed to the west where he died.
     Thomas J. Reynolds located in Hornellsville in 1819. For a time he practiced in partnership with Hon. John K. Hale and subsequently with Mr. Brundage. During the later years of his life he engaged successfully in lumbering and farming. He died in 1867.
     Hon. William Irvine began the practice of law in Corning about 1849. He was elected member of Congress and served during the war, and received the appointment of adjutant-general in 1865. He subsequently removed to California.
     Joseph Herron practiced law in Corning from 1847 to 1856. He served two years as district attorney from 1854.
     John Maynard, a son of the late Judge Maynard of Cayuga county, came to Corning in 1850, and continued in practice there until his death in 1865. He also served the county as district attorney, having been elected in 1856.
     Henry G. Colton practiced law in Centreville and Corning prior to 1841, when he removed to Illinois.
     Henry Sherwood was a member of the county bar, residing in Corning. He was a member of the state legislature in 1862. He died in 1875.
     Charles H. Berry and N. C. Waterman practiced in Corning after 1850. The former removed to Minnesota in 1855, where he afterward became attorney general. Mr. Waterman removed to the same state in 1853, and became judge of the supreme court of that state.
     Other members of the Steuben county bar who practiced in Corning were Isaac C. Herridon, who became private secretary to Hon. A. B. Dickinson, minister to Nicaragua; George N. Middlebrook, who subse-

quently moved to New York; William K. Logie, who was commissioned Colonel of the 141st Regt., and who was killed in battle; Azariah Longwell; George R. Graves, who was removed to Minnesota where he died, and Jacob H. Wolcott, who removed to Utah in 1874.
     We give below brief sketches of the present members of the Steuben county bar, arranged by towns in alphabetical order.
     Addison. - Horace D. Baldwin was born in Sherburne, Chenango county, N. Y., June 24, 1838. His father was a native of Goshen, Litchfield county, Conn., and his mother of North Kingston, Washington county, R. I., both of English descent. He was a member of Co. "E." 34th Regiment, New York Infantry Volunteers, in the late Civil War. He formerly taught school, and was graduated at Alfred University in 1863, and admitted to the bar in 1866, and has practiced his profession since his admission at Addison N. Y., where he now resides.
     Delmar M. Darrin, was born in Barryington, Yates county, June 6, 1849. Since 1853, he has resided in Addison, where he graduated from the Addison Academy in 1868. In 1872 he graduated from Cornell University. Mr. Darrin studied law in the office of Col. John W. Dininny and was admitted in 1875. He has been a member of the school board as trustee or clerk for eighteen years. He is also a practical civil engineer and surveyor.
     For a sketch of Col. John W. Dininny, see the history of Addison.
     James Durkin was born in the town of Woodhull, May 17, 1856. He received his education at the Woodhull Academy, studied law, and was admitted to practice in January 1885. He located in Addison village where he continues to practice. Mr. Durkin is also a surveyor, and a justice of the peace.
     Avoca. - Earle W. Bozard was born in Humphrey, Cattaraugus county, N. Y., January 24, 1862. In 1869 his parents removed to Olean where he received his early education. Later, he attended the Franklinville Academy, from which institution he graduated. In December 1881 he entered the office of Hon. Edward Hicks of Canandaigua, and was admitted to the bar in January, 1886. He practiced law in Canandaigua for two years, when he came to Avoca. In connection with his law practice he does a large business in general insurance.
     A. M. Spooner was born in Madison, Madison county, N. Y., February 17, 1808. He received an academic education, studied law and was admitted to practice in July, 1835. In 1838 he moved to Utica, where he continued to practice till 1850 since which time he has been identified with the Steuben county bar.
     Bath. - William A. Dawson was born in Montgomery county, N. Y.,

January 6, 1835. In 1843, his father, George Dawson, removed to this county and settled at Kanona. The subject of this notice received his preparatory education at Franklin Academy, Prattsburgh. He graduated in 1864 from the New York Central College with the degree of A. M., and in 1873 from the law department of Hamilton College. He was engaged in teaching for twenty-five years, during which time he was principal of Rogersville Seminary, and of the advanced schools at Howard, Hammondsport, Cohocton, Avoca and others; and has been superintendent of schools at Goodland, Ind. He was admitted to practice in the courts of this state in 1874.
     Charles F. Kingsley was born in Urbana, September 29, 1835. Educated at Hammondsport and at the Genesee Wesleyan Seminary, at Lima, N. Y. He studied law with Clark Bell at Hammondsport and was admitted in December 1857. Practiced one year in Prattsburgh, subsequently in Hammondsport, and in Bath since November, 1860.
     James R. Kingsley born in Bath, January 13, 1866, educated at Haverling Union Free School, graduated from Hobart College in the class of 1888. Studied law with his father Charles F. Kingsley and was admitted in June, 1891.
     John F. Little was born in Reading - Steuben - now Schuyler county, July 13, 1839. When between one and two years old, his father removed to Bath where the subject of this sketch was educated, graduating from the Haverling Academy. He studied law with Hon. W. B. Ruggles. In 1862, he left the law office and enlisted as a private in Co. F. 161st Regt. N. Y. Vols., and served until November, 1865. He was promoted to captain in 1863, and afterwards was breveted major. After his discharge from the service, he returned to Bath and resumed the study of law. In 1867 he was elected member of assembly and served one term. In 1887 he was appointed surrogate of the county of Steuben to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Judge Guy H. McMaster. Mr. Little has held the office of supervisor for five years. He was one of the original trustees appointed by the state in 1878, which established and completed the Soldiers' Home. He served two years on this committee and was reappointed in 1885, since which time he has served continuously. While a member of the board he has always served as its secretary.
     Reuben R. Lyon was born in Bath, March 2, 1857. His preparatory education was received in his native village, and his collegiate course at Hamilton College, from which he graduated in 1879. His law studies were pursued in the office of Reuben E. Robie, in Bath, and with Elihu Root and Willard Bartlett in New York city. He was admitted in 1880, and the two succeeding years practiced in New York. Since 1882 he has practiced in Bath.

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     Robert M. Lyon was born in Bath, December 1, 1825. He was reared and educated here, and was admitted to the bar in 1849. With the exception of ten years spent in New Jersey, - from 1872 to 1882 - he has practiced in Bath continuously.
     Ansel J. McCall was born in the town of Painted Post -  now Corning - January 14, 1816. After a prepatory course at Franklin Academy, Prattsburgh, he entered Union College and graduated in the class of 1838. He commenced the study of law in company with Hon. David McMaster, at Bath, and finished his studies in the office of Hammond & Campbell, being admitted and entering into partnership with Washington Barnes in 1842, with whom he continued to practice for five years. He subsequently practiced several years in company with A. P. Ferris. In 1843 he was appointed by Governor Bouck, surrogate of Steuben county; and held the office until the new constitution came in force, January 1, 1847. Mr McCall has recently retired from general practice. He is a man not only well informed in his profession, but upon all topics of local and general interest. Few men in the county are more conversant with its men or have preserved more of its history than he. As a student he is as diligent as in former years, and as an antiquarian and historian he is indefatigable in research.
     James McCall, son of Ansel J. McCall, was born in Bath, July 17, 1864. His preparatory education was received at the Haverling Academy, and in 1885 he graduated from the classical department of Cornell University, and from the law department of the same institution in 1888. He was admitted in March, the latter year and commenced the practice of his profession in Avoca. He opened an office at Bath in the spring of 1891.
     Charles H. McMaster, son of Hon. David McMaster, was born at Bath, N.Y., June 18, 1855. He was educated at Haverling Free Academy and at Albany Law School. Admitted to practice in 1878, he practiced in Bath. From 1883 to 1885 he resided at Salt Lake City where he was chief clerk of the government land office. Returning to Bath in 1885 he has continued the practice of the law here since. He was elected to the state assembly in 1889.
     Humphrey McMaster, son of the late Hon. Guy H. McMaster, was born in Bath

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, July 30, 1854, educated there and at Trenton State Model School at Trenton, N.J., and graduated from Hamilton College in 1876. Studied law with McMaster & Parkhurst and was admitted in 1879. The following year was appointed by President Hayes, Registrar of U.S. Land office at Salt Lake City, Utah, and re-appointed by President Arthur in February, 1885. He represented the Territory of Utah - appointed by Governor Murray - on Gen. Sheridan's staff, at the dedication of the Washington monument in the spring of 1885. The follow-

ing year began the practice of law in Bath in the office of J. F. Parkhurst. He has been associate editor of Steuben Courier since the death of H. S. Hull.
     A sketch of M. Rumsey Miller, the present surrogate, will be found in the history of Bath.
     William H. Nichols was born in Hammondsport, July 9, 1852. His primary education was received there, a prepatory course was taken at Genesee Wesleyan Seminary at Lima, N.Y., and a collegiate course at Rochester University from which institution he graduated in 1874. He studied law with Rumsey & Miller, and was admitted in 1879, since which time he has practiced in Bath. Mr. Nichols has been three times elected supervisor of Bath, once without opposition, and twice by very large majorities over the opposing candidate. Since 1880 he has practiced law in partnership with Hon. M. Rumsey Miller, under the firm name of Miller & Nichols.
     J. Foster Parkhurst was born in Wellsboro, Pa., February 17, 1843. He was a son of Dr. Curtis Parkhurst, who served his district in the state legislature of Pennsylvania, and who was also an associate judge of his county. The office of associate judge in the state of Pennsylvania is one of more judicial power than the corresponding office in our own State - the associate having power to hold court in the absence of the presiding judge, etc. Dr. Parkhurst was also sheriff of his county.
     Lawrenceville, Pa., on the border of Steuben county, was home of the family, and it was here that J. Foster Parkhurst received his early education through private tutors and in the public schools. Immediately after completing his academic course, he came to Bath and entered the office of the late Hon. Guy H. McMaster. He was admitted June 7, 1865. He was in practice in Judge McMaster's office until 1872, when a partnership was formed under the firm name of McMaster & Parkhurst, and continued until the death of Judge McMaster, September 13, 1887. Beside the eminent position he has attained as a lawyer, Mr. Parkhurst is prominently identified with politics. He was a delegate to the national convention at Chicago which nominated Harrison and Morton in 1888, and he has held the office of chairman of the Republican county committe since June, 1890. Subsequent to the death of H. S. Hull, Mr. Parkhurst has been political editor of the "Steuben Courier," and has conducted that department with such ability as to give the "Courier" a prominent place among the interior newspapers of the State.
     Reuben E. Robie was born in Bath, September 14, 1843, graduated at Hobart College, Geneva, N.Y., in 1864, studied law with Hon. David Rumsey and was admitted in 1866. He has since practiced in Bath, first with David Rumsey and George S. Jones, under the firm

name of Rumsey, Jones & Robie, the parnership continuing for two years and the two succeeding years he practiced in partnership with Mr. Jones. Since that time Mr. Robie has practiced alone. He has been a trustee of the village, and loan commissioner of the state of New York, adjutant, brigade inspector and judge advocate. He is a son of Reuben and Nancy (Whiting) Robie. His father came to Bath from Vermont in 1824, and was a prominent man in the early history of Bath and Steuben county. Mr. Robie, Sr., represented this district in Congress in 1851-52, and died in January, 1872.
     Thomas Shannon was born in Bath, July 11, 1863; received academic education at Haverling, Bath; graduated from Cornell University in 1888; studied law with Capt. J. F. Little and was admitted in October, 1890. Has since practiced in Bath.
     Byron L. Smith was born in the town of Cameron in 1851. When twelve years of age, his father being the sheriff of the county, removed to Bath, where the subject of this sketch received his preparatory education. He subsequently attended Genesee College at Lima, N.Y. He entered the office of Rumsey and Rumsey at Bath, and later, he studied in the office of McMaster and Parkhurst. He was admitted in 1874 and has since practiced in Bath.
     Lucius A. Waldo, born in Prattsburgh, February 22, 1865, was educated at Franklin Academy, studied law with McMaster and Parkhurst, and was admitted in October, 1890. He has practiced in Bath since. At present he is clerk of the village and corporation counsel.
     Clarence Willis was born in Howard, July 31, 1852. He was educated in the schools of Howard and Bath, and graduated from Haverling Free Academy in 1871. From 1871 to 1876 he was engaged in teaching. The latter year he took up the study of law in the office of Ruggles & Little, and afterward with C. F. Kingsley. He was admitted in 1879, and the following year began practice in Bath. In January, 1883, he was appointed Sheriff's clerk, and served under Sheriff's Page and Baldwin. He resumed practice in 1889, and was elected clerk of the village the same year, and police justice in March, 1890. Mr. Willis is also a member of the board of education.
     Bradford. - Albert J. Wright was born in Angelica, N.Y., August 8, 1850, was admitted to the bar October 8, 1880. He has practiced in Bradford since May 1887.
     Campbell. - Emmet B. Ross was born in Springfield, Bradford county, Pa., January 20, 1853. When three years of age his parents removed to Burlington in the same county, where he resided until fifteen years of age, attending the schools of that place. In the spring of 1868 he came with his parents to the town of Campbell, where he also attended school, and finally entered the Susquehanna Collegiate

Institute at Towanda, Pa. After teaching school a few years, he entered the office of Bradley & Kendall, of Corning, and was admitted to practice in 1876. He has practiced at Corning and at Campbell.
     Canisteo. - Alphonso H. Burrell was born in Salisbury, Herkimer county, January 8, 1826. When two years of age his parents moved to Tompkins county, where Mr. Burrell lived until eleven years of age, when he came to Canisteo and made his home with his uncle, William F. Thomas. He attended the common schools, and received private instructions of is uncle who was an old school master. When twenty-one years of age he learned the trade of carriage maker, and conducted a shop at Greenwood, for fifteen years. For twelve years he served as justice of the peace in Greenwood, and was postmaster for three years during the war. In 1865 he sold out and removed to Angelica, where he finished his law course and was admitted. In November, 1871, he was elected district attorney for Steuben county. 
     Allen M. Burrell was born in the town of Lansing, Tompkins county, April 8, 1828. He attended district school in the town of Groton until nine years of age when his parents moved to Greenwood, in this county. He attended the common school more or less until eighteen years old, when he went to Covert, Seneca county. There he attended school two winters at Ovid, working on a farm during the summer months. Being of a studious turn of mind, he always spent his evenings in reading and study. He read law in the office of the late Judge Martin Grover, of Angelica, and was admitted in the fall of 1855.
     William B. Jones was born at Tioga Point - now Athens - Pa., in 1810. When a child his parents removed to Canisteo where he has since resided. When a young man he taught school winters and worked at farming the remainder of the year. He was a member of the legislature in 1857-58, was twice elected supervisor of the town of Canisteo, and served as magistrate for several years. He practiced law for upwards of twenty-five years. He now lives retired in the village of Canisteo.
     Josiah D. Millard, son of Reuben W. and Mary (Hooker) Millard, was born in Cameron - now Thurston - July 23, 1818. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. He studied law and was admitted to practice in the state courts December 10, 1868, and in the courts of the United States in 1871. He has practiced in the town of Canisteo, where for over twenty years he has held the office of justice of the peace.
     Frank H. Robinson, the district attorney of Steuben county, was born in Cuba, Allegany county, May 23, 1855. Jonathan S. Robinson, grandfather of the subject of this notice, was an early settler in the town of Bath, and at one time one of the most progressive merchants of the

county. In an early day he was identified with many business enterprises, having general stores located at different places throughout the county. He finally located in Allegany county. Frank H. Robinson, at the age of eighteen years, became a law student in the office of Champlain, Armstrong & Russell, of Cuba. He afterward read law in the office of Sickles & Miller, of Albany, and graduated from the law department of Union University in 1876. He was soon after admitted to the bar. He began the practice of law in Limestone, N.Y., - then a flourishing oil town - in 1876, and met with good success until the territory began to wane. While there he was chosen president of the Bank of Limestone. In February, 1879, he was induced to settle in Canisteo and speedily won his way to an enviable rank in the profession among members of a numberous bar of universally conceded ability. He was admitted to practice in the United States court in Utica in October, 1881. He is now serving his second term as district attorney, having been elected each time by nearly two thousand majority. He is a prominent Mason, and has held important offices in other organizations.
     As a lawyer, Mr. Robinson ranks among the leading members of the profession, and enjoys the thorough confidence and respect of the people of the county. He has figured in some of the most important cases that have, of late years, engaged the attention of the Steuben county bar.
     Eli Soule was born in Enfield, Tompkins county, N.Y., January 20, 1829. Received his education at Enfield and at Ithaca, studied law with Boardman & Finch of Ithaca, and was admitted in April, 1860. After three years spent in Illinois he came to Canisteo in 1863 and formed a partnership with A. M. Burrell, which lasted till 1876. Since '76 Mr. Soule has practiced alone. He has been president of the village and has held other local offices.
     Cohocton. - Isaac N., son of Hiram Baker, was born in the town of Wayne, July 13, 1847. In 1861 his father moved to Bath. The following year the son enlisted in Co. A., 189th Regt., N.Y. Vols., and served until the close of the war. After his return he studied in the office of the late Hon. David Rumsey, and in 1871 was admitted to the bar. He practiced for three years in New York city, and subsequently returned to Steuben county, locating at Blood's Depot, where he has since practiced.
     Orange S. Searl was born in Ischua, Cattaraugus county, February 22, 1848. He attended Alfred University three years, Cook Academy at Havanna one year, and three terms at Tenbroeck Academy, Franklinville, Cattaraugus county. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1871. In partnership with J. H. Butler he commenced practice

in Cohocton. In 1878 the law firm of Searl & Larkin was formed and continued till the death of Mr. Larkin in 1886. Since that year Mr. Searl has been alone in business. He was a member of the legislature in 1882-83, and has also been supervisor of his town.
     Charles W. Stanton was born in McKean county, Pa., April 25, 1847. When he was ten years of age his parents moved into New York state, where he received his subsequent education, being for several terms a student at Cornell University. In December, 1861, he enlisted in Co. E, 104th N.Y., was transferred to Co. M, 2d U.S. Cav., and served till January, 1865. He studied law in Bath and in Corning, and was admitted in 1874.
     Corning. - Hon. George B. Bradley was born in the town of Greene, Chenango county, N.Y., February 5, 1825. A biographical sketch of Judge Bradley accompanies his portrait in the history of Corning.
     Daniel F. Brown was born in Hartwick, Otsego county, N.Y., October 9, 1821. When about eight years old his parents removed to Middlefield. While a lad he spent three years in Delaware county, where he earned and saved sufficient money to defray his expenses at the Troy Conference Academy, at Poultney, Vt. He came to Corning in 1846, where he read law, and was admitted in 1850. He was for three years a member of the 86th Regt. N. Y. Vols. and remained with the regiment until they were mustered out at the close of the war. He was appointed by the government assistant assessor, which office he held for nine years. With the exception of the period spent in the war, he has practiced his profession in Corning since 1850.
     Warren J. Cheney was born in Hopkinton, St. Lawrence county, N. Y., April 27, 1862. He graduated from the State Normal School at Potsdam in 1881. He was principal of the Fort Covington Academy five years, and subsequently was principal of the Brasher Academy. He studied law with L. C. Lang of Brasher Falls, and with John I. Gilbert of Malone. Mr. Cheney was admitted at Saratoga in September 1890, and began practicing in Corning the same year.
     Edwin C. English, son of Rev. Amzi English, was born in Caton, October 28, 1837. His early years were spent on his father's farm and in attendance at the common school. HIs later education was received at Alfred University. On the breaking out of the war Mr. English enlisted in Co. D. 23rd Regt. N. Y. Vols. Subsequently he returned to Caton, where he engaged in farming until 1874, when he moved to Corning, and entered the law office of Hon. George T. Spencer. He was admitted in October, 1879, since which time he has practiced in Corning. While in Caton, Mr. English for two terms represented the town in the board of supervisors.
     A. S. Kendall was born in Greenfield, Mass. in 1826. His father's

family removed to the state of New York when the son was ten years of age. He was admitted to the bar in 1852, and has since practiced and lived in Steuben county. He practiced law six or seven years alone, and formed a co-partnership with George B. Bradley - now of the court of appeals - 1861. That partnership continued until Mr. Bradley was elected a Judge of the supreme court in 1885. Since Judge Bradley's election to the bench, Mr. Kendall has continued the practice of law without a partner, in the city of Corning where he has resided about thirty years. Mr. Kendall in regarded as one of the ablest and safest counselor's of the Steuben county bar. His practice is large and lucrative. He has been a life long Democrat, and that party - if he had consented - would have made him its candidate more than once for judgeship and other important offices. Mr. Kendall has for many years firmly declined all offers of official honors, save that of school director or some similar position in which he could serve the public without pecuniary reward.
     William F. McNamara was born in Corning, July 17, 1860. He graduated from the Corning Free Academy in 1875, and was valedictorian of his class. He registered as law student in 1877 and read law with Spencer & Mills. Entering the Albany Law School, he was admitted to practice in January 1884, through he remained at the law school until the following June, when he graduated with the degree of L. L. B., and was one of the four commencement orators. In July 1884 he opened an office in Corning. He was corporation counsel in 1885-86, and has also been village clerk.
     Ellsworth D. Mills was born at Fairfield, Conn., May 8, 1836. He was but six weeks old when his parents settled in Centreville, removing to Corning in 1841. His education was received in the public schools of Corning, and the academy at Fairfield, Conn. He studied law with Spencer & Thomson; was admitted to practice in 1857; went to New York to reside in 1858, and remained there till 1865 when he returned to Corning and formed a law partnership with Charles H. Thomson and is now of the firm of Spencer & Mills. He was elected district attorney in 1874, and was re-elected in 1877.
     Egbert Shoemaker was born in the town of Campbell, September 12, 1854. He resided there until eighteen years of age, attending the common schools, and graduated from the Corning Free Academy in 1875. He studied law with Brown & Hadden of Corning, and Hart & McGuire of Elmira, and was admitted in October 1878. He practiced for two years in Monterey, Schuyler county, and then opened an office in Corning.
     Hon. George T. Spencer was born in Saybrook, Conn., November 6, 1814. He received his preliminary education at the common school

at Lees Academy, Madison, Connecticut and at Amherst and Westfield Academies, Massachusetts. In 1833 he entered Yale College, from which he graduated in 1837. Two years later he entered the law office of Governor Ellsworth at Hartford, Conn., and subsequently was a student with John G. Forbes of Syracuse, N.Y., and was admitted to the bar in July, 1841. In August of the same year he began the practice of law in Corning, where he has remained continuously. In 1857 he was a member of the state legislature. In 1867, a member of the constitutional convention, and from 1872 to 1876 inclusive, county judge and surrogate of Steuben county.
     Thomas H. Thomson, son of Col. C. H. Thomson, was born in Corning, August 27, 1856. He was educated in the schools of his native village, studied law with his father and with French & Mills and was admitted to practice June 14, 1879. Mr. Thomson served one term as police justice of the village of Corning.
     Leslie W. Wellington was born in Corning, February 10, 1857, received his early schooling there, and later attended the University of the State of Missouri. He studied law with Judge Bradley and was admitted in October, 1879. Has since practiced in Corning, where he held the office of police justice for twelve years.
     Francis A. Williams was born in Prattsburgh, March 25, 1834. He graduated from the Franklin Academy, Prattsburgh, and in 1860 from the Rochester University. After graduating from the latter institution he engaged in teaching, and was principal of the school at Wellsville, Allegany county, and at Port Byron, Cayuga county, N.Y. He studied law and was admitted to practice in December, 1863. On the first of January following he opened an office in Corning, where he has practiced since.
     Francis C. Williams was born in Corning, N.Y., November 26, 1864, received his preparatory education in the schools of Corning, and graduated at the Rochester University in 1888. He studied law with his father, F. A. Williams, and was admitted to the bar in April, 1891. In the first election held in Corning under the city charter, Mr. Williams was elected a justice of the peace.
     Hornellsville. - Milo M. Acker was born in Hartsville, N.Y., of German-American parentage, October 3, 1853. Until twenty-one years of age he worked at home during the summers, and in the logging camps of Pennsylvania during the winters. During his leisure moments he studied and read industriously. After consideration, Mr. Acker decided to enter the legal profession, and accordingly returned to his home, took what litle money he had and entered the school at Andover. By working for his board he managed to pay for his schooling. He was graduated with high honors and taught in all the departments of the

school. A little later he attended for one year Alfred University, whose professors recently said of him: "We remember him as one with the power for work and the determination to make the most of his opportunities. Such young men will make their mark in the world, under whatever circumstances." In 1879 and 1880 Mr. Acker was supervisor of the town of Hartsville, and in 1881 entered the office of Judge Hakes, of Hornellsville, as a law student. He was admitted to the bar in 1883, became a member of the firm in 1885, and in 1886 served as police justice of Hornellsville. He has risen rapidly in his chosen profession, and is now counted one of the most prominent among the younger lawyers of western New York, being often chosen to settle difficult cases where tact and sound judgment, both in regard to law and men, are required, and his success in such cases well warrants the choice. Mr. Acker has served four consecutive terms in the assembly, and held many prominent positions on committees. In 1890 he was chairman of the judiciary committee, and in 1891 was Republican candidate for speaker, and therefore the leader of the Republicans in the house, where he was recognized as one of the best orators and debaters in the assemblies in which he served. He is now actively engaged in the practice of law with his partner, Judge Hakes.
     Charles E. Beard born in Hartsville, July 8, 1844, attended the common schools and Alfred University. He studied law with Horace Bemis and at the Albany Law School, from which he graduated in 1869. He was admitted in June the same year, and has always practiced his profession in Hornellsville.
     A biographical sketch of Daniel L. Benton accompanies his plate in the history of Hornellsville.
     William C. Bingham was born in the city of Boston, Mass., April 26, 1843. He received his early education in the schools of Boston, and later in the schools at Greene, Chenango county, whither his parents had removed. At the age of eighteen years, he came to Hornellsville and entered the law office of his uncle, the late Horace Bemis and subsequently, his parents having removed to Belmont, Allegany county, he studied law under the late Judge Ward of Belmont. Mr. Bingham is recorder of the city of Hornellsville.
     Shirley E.Brown was born in the township of Dansville, this county, February 21, 1854. He took a preparatory course in the Munroe Collegiate Institute, at Elbridge, N.Y., and graduated from the Syracuse University in 1878. He commenced the study of law in the office of Hakes & Stevens, and was admitted to practice in 1880.
     William S. Charles was born in Wellsville, Allegany county, September 7, 1860. Soon after this date his parents removed to Hornellsville where he was educated. He read law in the offices of Bingham &

Paine, and Miles W. Hawley. He was admitted in 1888, and the same year opened an office in Hornellsville. Mr. Charles has served as city clerk, and also as justice of the peace.
     James H. Clancy was born in Hornellsville, March 1, 1859, and was educated in the public schools of that city until 1874 when he entered St. Hyacinths College in the city of St. Hyacinths, Canada, remaining there two years. He then engaged for a time in the merchant tailoring trade in Hornellsville, and afterward took up the study of law in the offices of D. M. Page and Hakes & Page. He was admitted in October, 1883 and has since practiced in Hornellsville. In 1884 he was elected police justice and justice of the peace. The latter office he has held continuously since 1884, and is acting recorder in the absence of the regular officer.
     Lewis H. Clark was born in the town of Dansville, Steuben county, September 19, 1856. His education was received at Rogersville Union Seminary, at Geneseo and at Alfred University. He studied law in the office of McMaster & Parkhurst until the spring of 1883, when he opened an office for the practice of law, in the village of Avoca, and remained there until April, 1887. He then moved to Hornellsville, where he has since practiced.
     Charles Conderman was born in the town of Fremont, January 15, 1864. He graduated from the Hornell Free Academy, entered the law department of Union University, Albany - known as the Albany Law School - and received his diploma from that institution June 18, 1890. He was admitted to practice January 10, the same year. He has since practiced in Hornellsville.
     A sketch of Charles A. Dolson, a prominent member of the Hornellsville bar, will be found in the history of that city.
     Edward L. Dolson, also a lawyer of Hornellsville, is at present temporarily engaged in business in Elmira.
     Adelbert Ferry was born in the town of Hornellsville, November 16, 1854. He completed his prepatory education at the Hornell Free Academy, and, after reading law with Hakes & Stevens two years, entered the Union University Law School at Albany, N.Y., graduating there in 1876. He first practiced at Dalton, Livingston county, and subsequently moved to Hornellsville. Mr. Ferry is also interested in farming.
     John Griffin, of Irish parentage, was born in Kirkgunnion, Scotland, March 14, 1852. In 1855 his parents emigrated to this country, and the subject of this notice was reared in the towns of Birdsall and West Almond, Allegany county. He received instruction in the common

schools and, by his own efforts, in the academies of Nunda and Almond. He taught school for three years, and during those years devoted his leisure hours to the reading of law. He subsequently studied in the office of Richardson, Flannigan & Smith of Angelica, and Hakes & Stevens of Hornellsville. Being admitted in 1878, he has since practiced in Hornellsville, in partnership with Fay Rathbun and with C. E. Beard.
     Hon. Harlo Hakes was born in Harpersfield, Delaware county, September 23, 1823. For a sketch of the life of Judge Hakes, see the history of Hornellsville.
     Miles W. Hawley, son of the late Hon. William M. Hawley, was born in Almond, Allegany county, August 30, 1833. On March 17, 1838, his father removed to Hornellsville, where the subject of this sketch was reared. He attended Alfred Universtiy, and Franklin Academy at Prattsburgh, and took a full three years course in the New York State National Law School at Poughkeepsie, from which institution he graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Laws, in August 1855. He was admitted to practice in the state courts in September the same year, and in the United States district court, June 25, 1857. With the exception of the time spent in army service and a brief period spent in practice in Perry, Wyoming county, Syracuse, N.Y. and at Denver, Col., he has always practiced his profession in Hornellsville. In August, 1862, Mr. Hawley enlisted in Co. F, 141st Regt. N. Y. Vols., was promoted to 1st Lieutenant, commanding Co. B, of the same regiment, and served two years. He has held the following town offices: supervisor six years, village clerk twelve years, and town clerk nine years. Mr. Hawley has gained a reputation as a local historian, having been the pioneer in gathering from the early settlers of Hornellsville and vicinity historical reminiscences, which from time to time have been published by the local press. We are indebted to Mr. Hawley for many historical facts that appear in this work, and which, but for his diligent research would have been forever lost. He is a life member of the Orphean Society of Alfred Universtiy, Past Master of Evening Star Lodge, F. & A. M., a member of Hornellsville Lodge, No. 331; Steuben Chapter, R. A. M., DeMolay Commandery, No. 22, and is also a member of several other secret organizations. At present Mr. Hawley is one of the civil magistrates of the city of Hornellsville.
     Homer Holliday, a son of the late Dr. Holiday of Burns, N.Y., is a native of that place, and was reared there. After being admitted to practice, he formed a partnership with the late Judge Hawley which continued for many years. He has also been justice of the peace. In 1870 he entered into partnership with William C. Bingham. Six years later he retired from general practice, and has since spent much time in foreign travel.

     Frank Kelley was born in Hornellsville in 1860 and graduated from the schools of that city in 1875. After a brief time spent at the jewelers business, Mr. Kelly entered the office of the Erie railroad company in Hornellsville. He entered the office of Bemis, Orcutt & Penton, and in 1886 was admitted to practice. He opened an office in Hornellsville and soon came into notice, not only as a lawyer but in the field of politics. In February 1888 he received the republican nomination for justice of the peace both on the long and short terms, and was elected to both by a large majority.
     Irvin W. Near - formerly spelled Neher - was born in Alexandria, Jefferson county, N.Y., January 26, 1835. The family from which he is descended were Palatinates - refugees from Holland about the beginning of the eighteenth century - who settled in the Mohawk valley. Mr. Near received his early education in the common schools, and pursued a finishing course in the University of Montreal. He soon after entered upon the study of law in Watertown, this state, in the office of Clark & Calvin, the latter, late surrogate of New York city. Mr. Near was admitted to practice in Syracuse, January 5, 1858, and the following year located at Kanona, in the town of Bath, where he practiced law for six years. He settled in Hornellsville in 1865, and entered into partnership with the late Horace Bemis. Subsequently he was associated in the practice of law with Henry N. Platt, now of Buffalo; William E. Bonham, and Fay P. Rathbun. Mr. Near has always taken a lively interest in all matters pertaining to the welfare of his town. For nine years he has been a member of the board of education, and was author of the act creating the present school system of Hornellsville, of which the city is justly proud. He has held the office of village president four terms; was one of the incorporators and first directors of the Rochester and Hornellsville railroad and has been the secretary of that corporation from its organization. He is also one of the projectors of the Coudersport, Hornellsville and Rochester railroad. Mr. Near served the county as District Attorney three years, having been elected on the Democratic ticket in 1883.
     He is one of the originators and the first president of the Canisteo Valley Historical Society, an organization which is accomplishing great good in the way of collecting and preserving facts in relation to the early settlement of the Canisteo valley; and by indefatigable research and diligence, he has been able to contribute to the archives of the society, some very interesting and valuable papers. Mr. Near has been twice married, first to Alice, daughter of Warren W. Goff, and grand-daughter of William Goff, one of the early settlers and prominent men of the town of Howard. By this marriage he has one son, Paul E., born in 1876. His present wife was Mary E. Staples, of Watertown, N.Y.

     Winfield S. Newman was born in Lima, Livingston county, N.Y., December 22, 1844. He was educated at the Genesee Wesleyan Seminary at Lima, and was a student there when the war broke out. He enlisted in April, 1861, in the 13th Regt. N. Y. Vols. After his army service he returned to Lima and read law with H. J. Wood and was admitted in June, 1869. He practiced in Lima in partnership with Henry Decker, afterward a senator for the state of Illinois. In 1872 the partnership was dissolved and the follwoing year Mr. Newman located at Avon, where he practiced until June, 1886, when he came to Hornellsville. In 1876-77 he was president of the village of Avon, and in 1879-80 was chairman of the board of supervisors of Livingston county. In 1879 he was elected chairman of the Firemens' Association of the state of New York.
     George N. Orcutt, son of Dr. Hiram C. Orcutt, was born at Troy, Vt., July 13, 1856. A brief sketch of the life of Mr. Orcutt accompanies his plate in the history of Hornellsville.
     Warren W. Oxx was born in the town Howard, March 9, 1847. He was reared on his father's farm, and received a common school education. He worked upon a farm until August, 1864, when he enlisted in Co. G, 189th Regt. N. Y. Vols., and served until the close of the war. He then attended school one year and in 1866 graduated at Lowell's Commercial College at Binghamton, N. Y. In the winter of 1867 he entered the store of W. A. Smith's Sons, Addison, and continued there until January, 1872, when he commenced reading law with Smith, Robson & Fassett of Elmira, finishing his studies with McMaster & Parkhurst, of Bath. He was admitted at Buffalo, June 11, 1874, and in August, 1875, was admitted to practice in the United States courts. After practicing law for four years at Bath, he moved to Hornellsbille in 1878. In 1887 he was elected justice of the peace, and has served as clerk of the common council of Hornellsville one year.
     DeMerville Page was born in the town of Cohocton, October 13, 1853. In 1856 his parents removed to the town of Fremont. Mr. Page took a preparatory course in the Rogersville Union Seminary, and graduated from Cornell University in 1872. He studied law with Hakes and Stevens, and after a course in the Albany Law School, was admitted in October, 1874. He began practice in Hornellsville in partnership with Hakes and Stevens, and subsequently practiced alone until 1879. In 1880 the partnership of Hakes & Page was formed, and Milo M. Acker was admitted about 1885, and the business was afterward conducted under the firm name of Hakes, Page & Acker. This firm continued until January 1, 1891. Mr. Page is now practicing in partnership with is brother, Murray E. Page. When a resident of the town of Fremont, Mr. Page represented that town for one year in the board of supervisors. 

In 1880 he was the Democratic candidate for district attorney, and in the fall of 1890 was the candidate of his party for member of congress from this district.
     Murray E. Page was born in Fremont, March 19, 1866. He attended the common schools of his native town until twelve years of age, when he entered the schools of Hornellsville and remained a student there for five years. Later he attended the Haverling Free Academy at Bath, and Alfred University. The years 1884 to 1886 he spent at Cornell University. He studied law with Hakes, Page and Acker, entered the Albany Law School, and graduated in the class of 1888. Being admitted in June 1890, he has since practiced in Hornellsville.
     Fay P. Rathbun was born in Fremont, August 31, 1851. He took an academic course at Rogerville Academy, and spent two years at Alfred University. Subsequently he graduated from the Albany Law School and commenced practice in Hornellsville. He has held the office of village president, also police justice. He is at present interested in farming in the town of Fremont.
     Jerry E. B. Santee, son of the late John Santee of Hornellsville, was born at Cameron, February 28, 1850. He attended the Alfred and Cornell Universities, and Union College, Schenectady, graduating from the latter institution with the degree of Bachelor of Laws, in 1873. He studied law in the office of Hakes & Stevens, and was admitted in September, 1873. He subsequently practiced with Miles W. Hawley under the firm name of Hawley & Santee, and later in the firm of Dennis, Santee & Sewell, - the latter now Judge of Delaware county. Mr. Santee was a member of the state legislature in 1876-77, has held the office of city recorder and for many years has been a member of the board of education, taking an active part in educational matters, and rendering valuable service in advancing the interests of the public school system of the city. On account of failing health, he was obliged some years since, to give up the general practice of law, and became cashier of the Citizens National Bank of Hornellsville, one of the most successful banking institutions in western New York. Mr. Santee married Mary E. Bentley of Westerly R.I., a lady descended from one of the oldest Puritan families of New England.
     Charles W., son of Humphrey Stevens, was born in Dansville this county, January 3, 1838. He graduated from the Rogersville Union Seminary in 1862, studied law and was admited to practice in 1865, at Albany. He began practice in Mt. Morris, N.Y., in 1866, where he remained until 1872 when he located at Hornellsville and became a partner with Harlo Hakes and James H. Stevens. Subsequently Judge Hakes withdrew from the firm, since which time the business has been conducted by J. H. & C. W. Stevens.

     For a notice of James H. Stevens, see the history of Hornellsville.
     Erwin. - James S. Tobias was born in Urbana, near Hammondsport in 1832. He studied law with Clark Bell of Hammondsport, and was admitted December 7, 1861. He first practiced in the town of Bradford where he remained seven years. In 1868 he removed to Painted Post where he continues to practice, and also conducts a general insurance business. He served a justice of the peace during his residence in Bradford, and also for several terms at Painted Post, covering altogether a period of about thirty years.
     Prattsburgh. - Jay K. Smith was born in Wheeler, Steuben county, N.Y., February 8, 1847. In 1856 Mr. Smith's father, who had been an extensive general farmer, removed to Hammondsport, where the subject of this sketch attended the public school until about 1861, when the Hammondsport Academy was erected and he was among the first to enter on an academic course in that institution. He entered Lima Seminary in the fall of 1863, where he remained through the school year, and in 1864 he entered Genesee College, graduating in June, 1868. In 1873 Syracuse University conferred upon him the honorary degree of A. M. After graduating from Genesee College Mr. Smith determined on the profession of law. He taught the Monroe County Academy, and was principal of Rushville graded school. In 1870 he entered the law office of the late A. Hadden, of Hammondsport, and was admitted to the bar in December, 1870. In 1872 he formed a law partnership with E. W. Gardner, of Canandaigua, under the firm name of Gardner & Smith. After one year Mr. Smith withdrew from this firm and located in the village of Prattsburgh, where he is now practicing his profession.
     P. M. Sullivan was born in Pulteney, Steuben county, June 22, 1843. He was educated in the common schools, and spent his boyhood mainly at hard labor on his father's farm. After attaining his majority he taught district schools for several years, and pursued the study of law. On June 10, 1869, he was admitted to the bar. He at once formed a law partnership with D. D. Waldo, of Prattsburgh, with whom he had studied the preceding year. In June 1870 Mr. Sullivan withdrew from the firm and went to California, where he practiced his profession in the cities of Sacramento, Woodland and San Francisco. In January, 1888, he returned to his native state, and in November, 1889, he again opened a law office in Prattsburgh, where he is now engaged in practice.
     Urbana. - Charles O. Sebring was born in the town of Pulteney, November 4, 1860. He was reared on a farm, educated in the district school and at Franklin Academy, Prattsburgh. When seventeen years of age he began teaching in district

schools, and subsequently taught one year in the Franklin Academy. He read law with J. K. Smith and completed his law studies with Maj. J. F. Little of Bath. In June 1885, he was admitted to practice, and in the fall of the same year located at Hammondsport. Mr. Sebring is a Democrat in politics, and in the fall of 1889 was the candidate of his party for the office of district attorney.
     Monroe Wheeler was born in the town of Wheeler, N.Y., August 16, 1849. His parents moved to the town of Urbana in December 1857, and he received his preliminary education at the Hammondsport Academy. He entered the literary department of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, graduating in 1872. He studied law with David B. Hill of Elmira, the present governor, and with the late Hon. David Rumsey of Bath. For three years he was managing clerk for the firm of Rumsey & Miller of Bath. He has practiced in Hammondsport since November 1887. Mr. Wheeler is the treasurer and also a director of the Lake Keuka Wine Company, and is village attorney.
     Woodhull. - Eugene T. Hollis was born in Tioga, Tioga county, Pa., October 2, 1835. When nine years of age his father, Thomas Hollis, removed to Addison where the subject of this notice received his education and studied law with the late Henry Sherwood of Addison. After his admission to the bar in 1856, he entered into partnership with Mr. Sherwood, and continued with him until 1860 when he located in the village of Woodhull where he has since been in practice. 
     Peter Masten, son of Judge Cornelius Masten, was born in Kinderhook, Columbia county, N. Y., January 17, 1815. When three years of age his father removed to Penn Yan. He received his academic education there, and was admitted to Hobart College, Geneva, where he remained three years. He read law with Judge Wells of Penn Yan, and was admitted in 1840. He practiced for a time in Yates county, and in 1845 came to Steuben county and has since been a member of the county bar. In August 1862, he enlisted in Co. H., 161st N. Y. Vols., and served until September 20, 1865. Since the war he has practiced in Woodhull. Previous to his enlistment he was for three years a partner with Col. J. W. Dininny. His father was the first county judge of Yates county, and his brother, Dr. James Masten is a leading physician of Westfield, Pa.
     Wayland. - Christian C. Bill was born in Wayland, August 1, 1859. He received his education in the public schools, entered Hamilton College, and graduated in the law class of 1881. He has always practiced in Wayland.
     William W. Clark is the only son of DeMarcus and Mary Ella Clark, and was born at Elgin, Illinois, February 14th, 1858. When he was yet in his infancy his parents returned to Clark's Mills, Oneida County,

N. Y., where his father, in company with three uncles, was long successful in the manufacture of cotton goods. His parents died in 1871. In the fall of 1871 Mr. Clark entered Whitestown Seminary, Whitestown, N.Y., then one of the most successful preparatory schools in the state. After his graduation there, he entered Hamilton College, from which institution he graduated in 1878. During this time he had already commenced the study of the law, and, after leaving Hamilton, he took a course at the Albany Law School, and was admitted to the bar in April, 1879. In June, 1879, Mr. Clark removed to Wayland, and opened an office and has resided and practiced law there ever since. From the start his practice has been a successful one, and to-day it is large and lucrative. In September, 1879, he married Miss Hattie M. Hill, eldest daughter of General J. A. Hill, of Forestport, N.Y., and they have one son. Mr. Clark is an ardent Republican in politics and has frequently taken an active part on the stump in Steuben and adjoining counties. He is a member of Wayland Lodge, No. 176, I. O. O. F., and is the present Deputy Grand Master of that order for Steuben county. He is also a member of Phoenix Lodge, F. & A. M. In 1889 he made a canvass for the Republican nomination for district attorney and had a very large support. He will be a candidate for that nomination in 1892.
     Steuben county comprises two assembly districts. In connection with the counties of Ontario and Yates it forms the twenty-ninth congressional district of the state, and with Chemung and Allegany counties is the twenty-seventh senate district. It is included in the seventh judicial district with the counties of Livingston, Wayne, Seneca, Yates, Ontario, Monroe, and Cayuga. The justices of this court who have been residents of Steuben county are the late Thomas A. Johnson of Corning, and David Rumsey, of Bath; George B. Bradley, of Corning, and William Rumsey, of Bath.
     Under the constitution of 1821, Hon. William B. Rochester was appointed circuit judge for the eighth circuit, on April 21, 1823.
     Upon the erection of the county of Steuben, the county buildings were located at Bath and a framed court house, one and a half stories high, with two wings, was constucted. This building was removed in 1827 or 1828, and a brick edifice erected, which was burned in 1862, and was succeeded by the present substantial brick structure. At the time of the erection of the first court-house, a jail was built of hewn logs, which was superseded by another in 1845. This, in turn, gave place to the present brick jail, built in 1882, at a cost of $29,102.50. The surrogate's office was built in 1886, at a cost of $8,708.77, and the clerk's office in 1872 at a cost of $11,000.

     We subjoin a few extracts from the minutes of the board of supervisors:
     1801. - Ordered that Henry A. Townsend, one of the Board, shall dispose of the old Goal in the town of Bath, to the best advantage.
     April 12th, 1803. - Charles McClure was appointed County Treasurer and gave a bond of $2,000 which was approved.
     At the October session Dugal Cameron was appointed County Treasurer, Charles McClure having died. At this session a committee was appointed to repair the Court House and Goal. It was estimated that $15.00 would be required to finish the Goal House.
     Ordered, that money be raised for building a steeple to the Court House.
     1804. - Resolved that all persons be excluded from using the Court House as a store room, or a school house or for any other pupose.
     1805. - October session: On application of the members of the Bath Lodge to this Board for the privilege of furnishing and occupying the upper room of the Court House as a Lodge room. Resolved that they the said members be allowed to finish and occupy the said upper part of the said house.
     1806. - October session: Ordered that the sum of $130 be raised and appropriated towards purchasing a bell for the court house in the town of Bath.
     A petition of the inhabitants of the town of Painted Post having been presented by Mr. Lindsley praying that the sum of $293 be granted for the purpose of building a bridge across the Cohocton near the Painted post. Resolved, that the said sum be granted, on condition that the bridge be built at or near the present crossing place at Mr. Winegers.
     November session, Resolved that an order be given to George McClure for $130.00 for the purpose of procuring a bell and hanging the same in the Court House at Bath, on his giving security for the same.
     1807. - October session: Upon petition $200, was raised to build a bridge across the Canisteo River opposite to Uriel Stephens; also $100 was raised to build a bridge across the Canaseraga Creek in Dansville.
     1808. - October session: Resolved that $1,000 be raised for the purpose of building a Goal in the town of Bath.
     1809. - October session: Resolved, that $4,000 be raised to build a new Goal.
     1811. - October session: Uriah Chapin, Supervisor of Pulteney, presented a petition asking that a sum of money be granted for the purpose of building a bridge across the Gulf on the road leading from Bath to Geneva on the west side of Crooked Lake. Ordered, that the sum of $85 be raised for that purpose. $85 was also raised to build a bridge across Mud Creek near James Faulkners, in the town of Bath. Petition presented asking that $40 dollars be raised for the purpose of building a bridge at Martins Falls on Troups Creek, in the town of Troupsburgh. Ordered that the sum of $40, be raised for the above mentioned purpose by the county.
     1812. - November session. Resolved that George McClure, Howell Bull, and H. A. Townsend, commissioners appointed by the Legislature to build a fire proof clerks office in Bath, in the county of Steuben, are hereby authorised to draw on the Treasurer of said county for a sum

not exceeding $1000 out of any monies levied at their annual meeting in October last for the purpose of erecting said Office.
     1813. - Resolved, that $500 be raised the ensuing year for the fireproof clerk's office.
     1814. - Resolved, that Howell Bull be appointed county sealer agreeable to an act of the legislature of this state.
     1815. - Resolved, that the town of Howard is to have $30 of county money for to build a bridge over the creek near William Goff's mills.
     1817. - Resolved that a bounty of $10 be allowed on panthers scalps. 
                  Resolved, that Wm. B. Rochester be appointed to the office of sealer of weights and measurers.
                  Resolved, that $30 be appropriated for a fence back of the jail, on the south side.
     1819. - October session. - Resolved, that $600, together with 6 per cent interest thereon (collector's and treasurer's commissions), be levied and raised on the towns of Bath, Addison and Troupsburgh, for the purpose of opening a road from Bath to Troupsburgh.
     1820. - Resolved, that the sheriff be requested to require from the people of Bath $10 per annum for the use fo the court house as a place of religious meetings.
                  Resolved, that $100 be appropriated for a bridge over the Canisteo river in Addison, on the state road leading from Bath to Troupsburgh.
     1821. - Resolved, that the sheriff be requested to prohibit the court house being used as a school house.
     1824. - October session. - Resolved, that Z. A. Leland be permitted to build a fence from the northwest corner of the court house, a due north course to Steuben street and the same to remain during the pleasure of the board of supervisors.
                  Resolved, that Henry Wells be permitted to put an attorney's office on the public land south of the clerk's office, and that he pay therefor $3.00 per annum.
     1825. - November session. - Resolved, that $1,500 be raised in 15 annual installments to build a poor-house.
     December session. - That Joshua Healey, A. Townsend and Steven Prentiss be a committe to purchase a farm for the county poor house.
     1826. - December session. - Resolved, that it is inexpedient to make any alteration in the act entitled an act to provide for the erection of a court house in the village of Bath, in the county of Steuben, passed March 16, 1824.
     1827. - November session. - Resolved, that the sum of $2,000 be raised, the first installment under the act to build a new court house in the county of Steuben.
     1833. - November session. - Resolved, that a poor-house shall be established in the county of Steuben for the reception of the poor of said county, and that all distinction between county poor and town poor be abolished, and the $1,000 be raised as part of the appropriation for erecting a poor-house.
                   Resolved, that Messrs. Knox, Reynolds and Towsley be a committee to ascertain where a farm can be had for the use fo the poor and to report at the next meeting of the board.

     December session. - Resolved, that the superintendents of county poor be directed to purchase the farm offered by Ephraim Barney.
                    Resolved, that $4,000 be appropriated for the farm and the erection of a poor-house thereon, $1,000 thereof to be raised the present year, and $1,500 in the year 1834, and $1,500 in 1835.
     By an act of the legislature passed July 19, 1853, the county was divided into two jury districts, and the county buildings for the southern district were located at Corning. The court house at Corning was built in 1853-54, at a cost of $14,000. This building is situated on the public square. The courts are held alternately at Bath and Corning.
     A tri-shire bill was intoduced in the state legislature in the winter of 1888-89 with a view to erecting a "western jury district," with a court house to be located at Hornellsville. This bill passed both houses of the legislature and went to the Governor, but died for the want of his signature. 

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321.00. For the remaining years to the present date the amount of the tax levy may be found in the following table: