Here's a genealogy for one branch of the Neff family that migrated from Switzerland to New York and ultimately Wisconsin. My research has been focussed on the descendants of 18. Isaac Neff below. Please also visit The Neff Genealogy Home Page, run by Don Neff, and by far the most comprehensive site for genealogical information on the Neff family.
Since 2005, the Neff Family Historical Society has sponsored a Neff surname DNA project with Family Tree DNA of Houston, Texas. We would invite a MALE family member from this line (surname Neff) to join in this research project. For additional information, contact: Neffdna@neffnews.org.
of Zuerich, Switzerland
1. Hans Marti1 NAF. He was baptized on 9 Jan 1653 in Stallikon. He was buried on 5 Feb 1686 in Kloten, Kt. Zuerich, Switzerland.
"Hans Marti Naf-CH14-G was living at Wallisellen with his brother Hans Jakob Naf in 1670. In 1671 he was at Obermettmenstetten/Oberembrach and between 1678 to 1686 again in Wallisellen. Hans Marti's wife Anna Haller was still living at Wallisellen in 1689. Dates, place in the family, and marriage information from Zurich Archives research by Herren Hans Ulrich Pfister. We have now designated him at the progenitor of the G-line in America even though he did not emigrate." (Neff News Sep 1994.)
He married Anna HALLER on 23 Apr 1678 in Kloten, Kt. Zuerich, Switzerland. She was born in 1656. They had the following children:
2. Rudolph2 NAF (Hans Marti1). He was baptized on 25 May 1679 in Kloten/Wallisellen, Kt. Zuerich, Switzerland. He married Barbara KUHN on 8 Mar 1701 in Kloten/Wallisellen, Kt. Zuerich, Switzerland.
2 i. Rudolph2 NAF
3 ii. Hans Konrad2 NEEF
iii. Hans Martin2 NAF. He was baptized on 10 Jul 1681
in Kloten/Wallisellen, Kt. Zuerich, Switzerland.
iv. Magdelena2 NAF. She was baptized on 10 Sep 1682
in Kloten/Wallisellen, Kt. Zuerich, Switzerland and
died on 25 Mar 1687 in Kloten/Wallisellen, Kt.
Zuerich, Switzerland.
4 v. Ulrich2 NAF
3. Hans Konrad2 NEEF (Hans Marti1). He was born ca, 1680. He was baptized on 4 Jul 1680 in Kloten/Wallisellen, Kt. Zuerich, Switzerland. He died after 1765 in Montgomery Co. NY.
"[Possibly one and the same as]... Hans Jacob Neff who we identify as [G26], he was the son of Konrad Naf born at Kloten, Kt. Zuerich in 1680. He [Hans Konrad Neef] was married for the third time to Anna Barbara Deppeler at Wallisellen on 1 Jun 1723. There were two children by this third marriage one being the Hans Jacob [G26] bpt. 25 Jan 1728 at Wallisellen [CH8302]. We published the story of this family in our September 1994 issue of NEFF NEWS. The Neffs on the ship Mercury were all from Wallisellen and came with a group led by Reformed minister Maurice Goetschy. The group's trip is well documented and they left from Wallisellen on 5 Oct 1734 and went directly to Rotterdam where they boarded the ship for London. There was a brief stay in England for financial reasons before boarding the Mercury for Philadelphia. We have traced a number of family members into York Co. PA and down to Frederick, Maryland. We do not have anything further on this Jacob Neff [G26] after his arrival to America. NEFF NEWS 9-94. While the Jacob Neff [Neef] you are looking for in Schenectady could be the same Jacob as [G26], I would have my doubts. First, he would have been age 16 when he married Catherine Angst marriage date of 1744 [note: a subsequent note clarifies this is the date of her baptism, not their marriage]. I believe the church you are referring to is the Dutch Reformed under Calvin and not Zuerich Reformed under Zwingli." (email from William Neff to William Starks 15 Dec 1996).
He married (1) Verena KUHN on 27 Mar 1702 in Kloten, Kanton Zurich, Switzerland. She was born ca. 1682 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland. She died between 1703 and 1710 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland.
He married (2) Elsbeth Ruettimann RUEDIMAN on 4 Feb 1710 in Kanton Zurich, Switzerland. She was baptized on 4 Apr 1674 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland. She died on 20 Mar 1723 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland. Hans Konrad NEFF and Elsbeth Ruettimann RUEDIMAN had the following children:
5 i. Jacob (Jakob)3 NEEF ii. Jacob3 NEEF. He was baptized on 20 Mar 1712 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland and died young in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland. iii. Jacob3 NEEF. He was baptized on 28 Sep 1713 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland and died young in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland. 6 iv. Anna3 NEEF
He married (3) Anna Barbara DEPPELER on 1 Jun 1723 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland. She was baptized on 2 May 1686 in Tegerfelden, Kanton Aargau, Switzerland. She died after 1765 in Montgomery Co. NY.
"[Jacob Neef and his wife Barbara] with at least two sons, Jacob and Johannes, left Wallisellen, Canton of Zurich in 1734 and stayed about a year among Hollanders, coming to America on the ship "Mercury" arriving in the town of Philadelphia on May 29, 1735. The family was related to a Henrich Frey, a Swiss who had settled in the Mohawk Valley about 1690, & they followed him there... " (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996.)
Hans Konrad NEFF and Anna Barbara DEPPLER may be one and the same as the "Hans Jacob Neff and his wife" who appears as a sponsor at the baptisms of two baptisms listed among the records of Queen Anne's Chapel Register of Baptisms, Marriages and Funerals at Fort Hunter, NY: "June 5, 1743 - Hans Jacob bapt. son of Johan Peter Frederick; Sureties (Sponsors), Hans Huber and Jacob Neef and his wife; Jan 16, 1746 - Hendrick bapt. son of Johannes Kets - ; Sureties (Sponsors), Hans Huber and Jacob Neef and his wife." They appear as sponsors of their grandson, Jacob Neff, by their son Hans Jacob (see below).
Hans Konrad NEFF and Anna Barbara DEPPLER had the following children:
7 i. Hans Jacob3 NEEF 8 ii. Johannis3 NEEF
5. Jacob3 (Jakob) NEEF (Hans Konrad2, Hans Marti1). He was baptized on 1 Dec 1710 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland. He married Elisabeth HALLER on 1 Oct 1734 in Grossmuenster Ch., Zurich, Switzerland. She was baptized on 24 May 1711 in Wallisellen, Zurich, Switzerland.
"[Hans] Jacob Neef was baptized in Wallisellen, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland January 25, 1728. His parents with at least two sons, Jacob and Johannes, left Wallisellen, Canton of Zurich in 1734 and stayed about a year among Hollanders, coming to America on the ship "Mercury" arriving in the town of Philadelphia on May 29, 1735. The family was related to a Henrich Frey, a Swiss who had settled in the Mohawk Valley about 1690, & they followed him there... Jacob Neef, the immigrant, married a second wife Catherine Stevenson who lived to be 104 yrs. A great grand-daughter of Jacob Neef, Sara Starks Hollensbee, said that "after this second marriage to an American woman, the children and family ever afterwards used the English language. Records of the Dutch Church of Caughnawaga, Fonda NY give the marriage of Jacob Neef's daughter Caty met ein Niew Englander, John Starks on November 11, 1786. The Swiss name 'Naf' may have been translated as Neefe. " (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996).
He married (1) Catarina ANGST, daughter of Adam ANGST & Anna Barbara RAAS, ca. 1760. She was baptized ca. 1744 in Schenectady, Schenectady Co. NY.
"Jacob Neef was married first to Catherine Angst or Aunchs, baptized at Schenectady in 1744, the daughter of Adam Angst, a tailor and his wife Anna Barbara Raas, came to America from Andelfingen, Canton of Zurich. The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were: 1. Adam Neef, who lived in Montgomery County, NY and died there sometime between 1814 and 1820; 2. Jacob Neef, baptized May 12, 1765 may bave been born as early as 1762. Came to Cortland County, NY about 1805 and is said to have died there in 1835; 3. Henry Neef, born September 10, 1769 died in Montgomery County, NY in 1814; 4. Catherine Neef, born 1768 or 1770 died in Decatur County, Indiana on September 1, 1850 age 80, married at the Dutch Church, Fonda, NY to John Stark, born 1763 or 1764. He died in Clermont County, Ohio, June 30, 1841 age 77; 5. Abraham Neef, born February 15, 1772 went to Cortland County, NY about 1805 and died there in 1811; 6. Isaac Neef, went to Cortland County about 1801; 7. Elizabeth Neef, baptized October 26, 1777; 8. Daniel Neef, born 1781 went to Cortland County NY then to Oneida County and died in Masonville, Delaware County NY in 1867 age 86 yrs." (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996.)
Deed sale: 23 Apr 1772 John Butler to Jacob Neaff Jr. [Hans Jacob Neef] and Johannis Neaff.
In addition to christening records for their own children and grandchildren (noted among their respective entries below) Hans Jacob and Caterina appear as sponsors for several christenings of relatives and or friends among records of the Dutch Reformed church of Caughnawaga (now the Reformed Church of Fonda, NY): "1764, Jacob bapt. s. of Philip Scoefer & Elizabeth Angst; Sponsored by Jacob Neef and Catarina Neef."
"3 Feb 1765, Henricus bapt. s. of Caspar Kuens and Catarina; Sponsored by Jacob Neeve and Catarina."
Hans Jacob and Caterina also appear as sponsors for several christenings of relatives and or friends among records of the Lutheran Trinity Church of Stone Arabia, Palatine, Montgomery Co: "1 Apr 1769 Henrich b. s. of Gratius Mok and wife Anna; Sponsors Jacob Neff and wife Catharina.
"9 Apr 1769 Susanna b. d. of Jacob Frey and Anna; Sponsors Jacob Neff and wife Catharina.
Jacob Neff (jr.) is also referred to among several records of Town Meetings and Highways for the Town of Amsterdam: Road assessments 1794- Jacob Nave 6 days; Road assessments 1794-6 - Jacob Nave Jr. 6 days; Names of the rateable persons in the Town of Amsterdam in 1794- Jacob Nave Jr.; Names of the rateable persons in the Town of Amsterdam in 1795-6, 1799- Jacob Nave, Jacob Nave Jr.
Hans Jacob NEEF and Catarina ANGST had the following children:
9 i. Adam4 NEEF 10 ii. Jacob4 NEFF Jr. 11 iii. Caty4 NEEF 12 iv. Henrich4 NEEF 13 v. Isaac4 NEEF 14 vi. Abraham4 NEFF 15 vii. Elizabeth4 NEEF 16 viii. Daniel4 NEEF
Hans Jacob NEEF married (2) Catherine STEVENSON.
Deed sale: 23 Apr 1772 John Butler to Jacob Neaff Jr. [Hans Jacob Neef] and Johannis Neaff.
In addition to christening records for their own child (noted in his entry below) Johannis and Annetje appear as sponsors for several christenings of relatives and or friends among records of the Dutch Reformed church of Caughnawaga (now the Reformed Church of Fonda, NY): "29 Mar 1772 Elizabert b. d. Jacob Kitts and Eva Service; Sponsors Hans Neef and Anna Neef."
"21 Apr 1772 Barbara and Marrigrita b. d. Philip Shaver and Elizabeth Angstes; Sponsors Hans Neef and Anna Neef, Hendrick Bussert and Elizabeth Bussert."
"1 Oct 1772 Marragriet b. d. Hendrick Dogsteder and Marelena Dogsteder; Sponsors Hans Neef and Anna Neef."
"18 Sep 1774 Anna b. d. Frederick Cash and Elizabeth Helmer; Sponsors Johannis Neef and Anna Neef."
"2 Dec 1780 Tanno b. s. Tanno and Nance; Sponsors Johannis Neef and Antje Neef."
"11 Dec 1791 Johannes, b. s. Peter Graeft and Elizabeth Frye; Sponsors Johannes Neef & his wife."
"p. 123 - Johnannis, Johannis Moore and Johannis Neef June 20, 1794 his wife Elizabeth Annitje Neef."
1790 Census - Montgomery Co., Caughnawaga Town, p. 102. Nafe, Johannes, 3 males (16+), 2 males under 16, 2 females, 2 slaves (p. 102)
Road Assessments for the year 1793 for the town of Caughnawaga: John Nave, 4 days; Road Assessments for the year 1794 for the town of Caughnawaga: John Nave, 7 days;
Johannes Neff is also referred to among several records of Town Meetings and Highways for the Town of Amsterdam: Road assessments 1794-6 - John Nave, 5 days; Names of the rateable persons in the Town of Amsterdam in 1794- John Nave; Names of the rateable persons in the Town of Amsterdam in 1795- John Nave.
List of Patents of Lands, etc. to be sold in Jan. 1822 for Arrears of Quit Rent by State Patentees Names: Jonathan Neef, Jacob Neef, Jr. & 30 others - pertains to grant of 40,000 acres in Albany Co. (when granted); in Warren Co. in 1822.-- Hyde's Township in the Town of Thurman
Johannis NEEF and Annetje - had the following children:
17 i. Johannis J.4 NEEF
9. Adam4 NEEF (Hans Jacob3, Hans Konrad2, Hans Marti1). He was born in Caughnawaga, Montgomery Co. NY. He died ca. 1814-20 in Montgomery Co. NY.
RECORD OF BIRTH- "The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were: 1. Adam Neef, who lived in Montgomery County, NY and died there sometime between 1814 and 1820...." from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996.
CENSUS RECORDS:
1790 Census for Caughnawaga Town, Montgomery Co. NY- "Nafe, Adam 1 male 16+, 1 male under 16, 2 females". (p. 102)
1800 Census for Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. NY- Adam Neff one boy under 16, one man 16- 26, one man 45+; two girls under 10, one girl 10-16, one woman 26-45.
Records of the Caughnawaga District - 1784-94 Road Assessments for the year 1793 for the town of Caughnawaga: Adam Nave, 4 days. Road Assessments for the year 1794 for the town of Caughnawaga: Adam Nave, 8 days.
Names of the rateable persons in the Town of Amsterdam in 1794, 95; 1799: Adam Nave
Amsterdam town records Adam Neff was chosen overseer of highways for the years 1800, 1803 and 1807
First Dutch Reformed church of Amsterdam , NY 1799 "Under the Parents names for children baptized appears the name of Adam Neff with the date May 31, 1799, but does not give any child. This may be the baptism date for Adam himself"
BAPTISM RECORD: "12 May 1765, Jacob bapt. s. of Jacob Neef & Catarina Angst; Sponsored by Jacob Neef and Barbara Neef. ( Records of Dutch Reformed church of Caughnawaga now known as the Reformed Church of Fonda, NY).
He married Olive -, ca. 1787. [There is a record of a marriage between Jacob Neef and Elianor Schikstag that took place on 11 Nov 1787 in the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of Caughnawaga, Fonda, Montgomery, NY (New York Marriages, 1686-1980, LDS M51131-1, source film 534215) that might refer to them.) According to her gravestone, Olive was born on 19 Oct 1764. She died on 21 Apr 1878 and was buried in Lot 50, Fowler Prairie Cemetery, Elroy, Juneau Co. WI.
A Jacob Neff is in the 1800 Census for Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. NY, p. 103. The household is listed as having four boys under ten (Cornelius (9), Jacob (7), Abraham (4), Judson; one man 16-26 (Isaac (12)?) and one man 26-45 (Jacob (38)), one girl under ten (Polly (2), one woman 26-45 (Olive (36)).
A Jacob Neff is in the 1820 Census for Homer, Cortland Co. NY, p. 544. The household is listed as having one boy under ten (George (9)), one boy 10-16 (Nathan (13)), one man 26-45 (Jacob (27) or Judson or James), one man over 45 (Jacob (58)), two women aged 16-26 (Polly (22), Catherine (19)), one woman aged over 45 (Olive (56)), two persons engaged in agriculture.
There is a record of a "Kneff, Jacob with three males, two females, and one voter" in the 1825 census for the Town of Scott, Cortland Co. From what we know about the ages of his children, this could refer to this Jacob Neff, as he had two young sons and a daughter at this time. This could also refer to his son Jacob, if the latter (age 32) was married, had three children and was indeed living in the area.
Jacob Neff Jr. and his wife appear to be the older couple living with his son Nathan Neff and his wife Jane nee Martin in the 1830 census for Homer, Cortland Co. NY. The entry under Nathan's name includes one white male aged 20-29 (Nathan age 23), one white male aged 60-69 (Jacob Jr. age 68), one white female aged 20-29 (Jane age 22), and one white female aged 60-69 (Olive age 66).
SCHOOL RECORDS - from the Scott Justice of the Peace Book, 1816-1837. Under the names of parents or guardians sending children to school between the ages of 5 and 15 years inclusive are the following entries: 1825. District No. 6. Jacob Neff. 4 children [Catherine, James, Nathan, George] 1826. District No. 6. Jacob Neff. 1 child [George]
List of Patents of Lands, etc. to be sold in Jan. 1822 for Arrears of Quit Rent by State Patentees Names: Jonathan Neef, Jacob Neef, Jr. & 30 others - pertains to grant of 40,000 acres in Albany Co. (when granted); in Warren Co. in 1822.-- Hyde's Township in the Town of Thurman
LAND RECORDS: "Grantees (briefs of early deeds recorded in the Cortland County Clerk's Office) Liber N. Page 200. Oct. 26, 1827, between Jacob Neff and Olive his wife of Scot and Rowse Babcock of the same place, 25 acres, part of Lot 93 in Scott. Consideration $148"
1850 MORTALITY SCHEDULE: According to the Federal 1850 mortality schedule for deaths in Scio, Allegheny Co. NY during the year ending 1 June 1850, a Jacob Neff died the preceding October. He was married, 88 years old and a farmer. Cause of death: old age; duration of illness: Sudden. (1850 US Federal Census Mortality Schedule, New York, p. 67 line 13)
Jacob NEFF and Olive - had the following children:
18 i. Isaac5 NEFF 19 ii. Cornelius5 NEFF 20 iii. Jacob5 NEFF 21 iv. Abraham5 NEFF 22 v. Judson5 NEFF 23 vi. Polly5 NEFF 24 vii. Catherine5 NEFF 25 viii. James5 NEFF 26 ix. Nathan5 NEFF 27 x. George5 NEFF
RECORD OF BIRTH-"p. 167 - Nov. 11, 1786, Jacob Neef's dau. Caty met ein New Englander, John Stark etc."(Records of the Dutch Reformed church of Caughnawaga (Reformed Church of Fonda, NY)
"The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were... 4. Catherine Neef, born 1768 or 1770 died in Decatur County, Indiana on September 1, 1850 age 80, married at the Dutch Church, Fonda, NY to John Stark, born 1763 or 1764. He died in Clermont County, Ohio, June 30, 1841 age 77... John Starks & Catherine Neef lived in Penfield 12 miles east of Rochester, NY. Catherine Neef's brothers served in the Canadian War. Their family only spoke German until her father married a second time. Catherine went blind seven years before her death. Bill, Catherine and John had at least 9 children that we are aware of." from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996.
She married John STARK, 11 Nov 1786 in Dutch Reformed Church Of Caughnawaga, NY. He was born ca. 1763 in New England. He died 30 on Jun 1841 in Clermont Co., OH.
RECORD OF BIRTH- "10 Sep 1769, Henrich b. s. of Jacob Nef and wife Catharina; Sponsors - Philipp Schaefer and Elizabetha.(Records of the Reformed Dutch Church of Stone Arabia, Palatine, Montgomery Co.)
"The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were: ... 3. Henry Neef, born September 10, 1769 died in Montgomery County, NY in 1814" (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996.)
He married Johana KEESE. She died after 1820.
Records of the Caughnawaga District - 1784-94 Road Assessments for the year 1793: Henry Nave, 3 days.
Records of Town Meetings and Highways for the Town of Amsterdam, 1794-1811 Road Assessments for the years 1794-6: Henry Nave, 5 days; Names of the rateable persons in the Town of Amsterdam in 1794: Henry Nave; Assessment for the Town of Amsterdam in 1799: Henry Naffe; on 2 Dec 1803 Henry Neff and Daniel Neff gave land for a highway.
CENSUS RECORDS:
A Henry Neff is in the 1800 Census for Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. NY, p. 103. The household is listed as having one man 16-26 and one man 26-45 (Heinrich (31)), one girl 16-26, one woman 26-45.
A Henry Neff is in the 1810 Census for Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. NY, p. 94. The household is listed as having three boys under ten, two boys 10-16, one man 16-26, and one man 26-45 (Heinrich (41)), one girl under ten, one girl 10-16, one woman 26-45, and one woman aged over 45.
The widow Johana Neff is in the 1820 Census for Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. NY, p. 286. The household is listed as having one boy under ten, two boys 10-16, one girl 10-16, one woman aged over 45.
"Letters of administration were granted on [Henry Neff's] estate on February 8th, 1814 to Adam Neff of the Town of Florida, Montgomery County, New York. The decedent is shown to be a resident of the town of Amsterdam, Montgomery County, New York (then a part of Fulton County)." Letter from Betty Lotridge, clerk, Chambers of the Surrogate Court of the County of Fulton 28 Dec 1945 to Lewis E. Neff.
Henry NEEF and Johana KEESE had the following children:
i. Jacob5 NEEF
"The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were: ... 6. Isaac Neef, went to Cortland County about 1801" (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996).
Records of Town Meetings and Highways for the Town of Amsterdam, 1794-1811 Road Assessments for the years 1796-8: Isaac Nave.
An Isaac Neff appears in the 1800 Census for Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. NY 1 boy under 10, 1 boy 10-16, 1 man 26-45, 1 woman 26-45; (p. 103)
Homer Town Meeting Records, 1794-1824 From a list of men liable to work on the highway: (1801) Isaac Neff 8 days 1st District; (1802) 4 1/2 days 1st District; (1803) 4 days 1st District; (1804) 3 days 3rd District; no list given between 1804-6; (1807) 2 1/2 days 1st district; from 1807 on, no list of highway workers is given.
"The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were: ... 5. Abraham Neef, born February 15, 1772 went to Cortland County, NY about 1805 and died there in 1811" (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996).
RECORD OF BAPTISM- "15 Feb 1772, Abraham b. s. of Jacob Nef and wife Catharina; Sponsors - Jacob Bosshart and wife. (Records of the Lutheran Trinity Church of Stone Arabia, Palatine, Montgomery Co., NY)
Records of the Caughnawaga District - 1784-94 Road Assessments for the year 1793: Abraham Nave, 3 days.
Names of the rateable persons in the Town of Amsterdam in 1794: Abraham Nave.
Records of town meetings and highways for the town of Amsterdam 1794-1811: "1795 road assessments Abraham Nave."
Among Town Records of Amsterdam, Cattle Marks recorded for 1796 -11 Jun 1796 Abraham Nave
Assessment for the Town of Amsterdam in 1799: Abraham Naffe
"Abraham Neff apparently came to Cortland County quite early, as he died here Aug. 1, 1811 and a copy of his will is filed in the Surrogate's office here. I copied only the first of it in which he named his children. One of his son's names I could not make out. It looks by Runnel, but I cannot be sure." (Letter from Clara Elder to Lewis Neff 8/3/1945)
"From Cortland County Wills: The last will and testament of Abraham Neff was dated 11 Jun 1811 and states that he was the possessor of a certain Lot 24 in Homer and not having procured a deed in his lifetime, directs the executors to take the land in their name, sell the land, and pay the proceeds as follows: 'Whereas I the said Abraham Neff now being the reputed father of seven children, four daughters and three sons, their names being as follows: Silas Neff, Adam Neff, Runnel (?) Neff and the names of my daughters, Polly Price, wife of Charles Price, Keziah Neff, Anna Neff, and Christian Neff.' Abraham died 1 Aug 1811 and Testamentary letters were granted 10 Aug 1811" (Neff News Feb 1996 p. 13.)
Abraham NEFF had the following children:
i. Silas B.5 NEFF ii. Adam5 NEFF iii. Runnel5 NEFF iv. Polly5 NEFF v. Keziah5 NEFF vi. Anna5 NEFF vii. Christina5 NEFF
"The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were: ... 7. Elizabeth Neef, baptized October 26, 1777" (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996).
RECORD OF BAPTISM: "26 Oct 1777, Elizabeth bapt. d. of Jacob Neef & Catarina Angst; Sponsored by Hendrick Bussart and Elisabeth Bussart " (Dutch Reformed church of Caughnawaga (Reformed Church of Fonda, NY))
"The children of Jacob Neef and wife Catherine were: ... 8. Daniel Neef, born 1781 went to Cortland County NY then to Oneida County and died in Masonville, Delaware County NY in 1867 age 86 yrs." (from _Faces Westward_ by Jeannie Starks McKee as related by Gayle Starks in a letter to William Neff 27 Dec 1996).
On 2 Dec 1803 Henry Neff and Daniel Neff gave land for a highway (Records of Town Meetings and Highways for the Town of Amsterdam, 1794-1811)
A Daniel Neff is listing as having joined the First Religious Society of the Town of Homer, N.Y in 1811, according to their records covering the years 1799-1856
Daniel NEFF had the following children:
i. Daniel5 NEEF
Neef, John The Line, Artillery - Second Regt. Col. John Lamb's Co. (New York in the Revolution)
He married Martha BECKWITH on 26 Dec 1787 in the Dutch Reformed Church Of Caughnawaga, NY.
RECORD OF MARRIAGE: "26 Dec 1787 John J. Neef met Martha Beckwith" (Records of the Dutch Reformed church of Caughnawaga (now the Reformed Church of Fonda, NY))
1790 Census - Montgomery Co., Caughnawaga Town, p. 102. "Nafe, John, 1 male (16+), 1 male under 16, 1 female"
Records of the Caughnawaga District - 1784-94 Road Assessments for the year 1793 for the town of Caughnawaga: John Nave, 4 days; Road Assessments for the year 1794 for the town of Caughnawaga: John Nave, 7 days;
"The name John Nave does not appear in the Assessment Roll, 1797, and I would say that Martha Nave appears in his place, as with the 1796 Roll, John Nave's name appears directly ahead of 'Widdow Beckwith's" and in the 1797 roll, Keziah Beckwith's name appears directly ahead of Martha Nave" (Letter from Carol Bussing, Clerk, Department of History and Archives, Montgomery County)
He apparently remarried a woman named Maria Dorothy LAMBERT
"John J. Neff of Schenectady & Maria sold land to John Banker on Nov. 6, 1826 and on Nov. 17, 1826 to Thomas B. Clute. The land was in Green St. and was one-sixth part of the land left Maria from the estate of the late John Lamber deceased. Maria could only make her mark. On September 28, 1844, Maria Neff of Center Ville, Allegany Co. NY sold to Cornelious Steers 5 acres or one-fourth part of the lot belonging to her. I looked up John Lambert's will. His wife was Gertruy Steers. He mentioned his daughters Maria Dorothy, Clara, Gitty, Jean, and brothers Philip, Cornelis Van Slyke, Daniel Campbell, John and David. So I sould deduce that John Neff's wife's name was Maria Dorothy Lambert. I could not find any other record except the baptism in St. George's church that you mentioned." (H. A. McConville, Schenectady, NY.)
Johannis J. NEEF and Martha BECKWITH had the following children:
i. Elizabeth5 NEEF. ii. John5 NEFF Jr. He was born 16 July 1795 at Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. NY and died 5 Jan 1877. He married (1) Rachel STARR, (2) Susannah GAZEY, widow of William Beer, on 10 Oct 1847; and (3) Susan ROBERTS on 25 Nov 1874.
Johannis J. NEEF and Maria Dorothy LAMBERT had the following children:
i. Mary Ann5 NEEF. She was baptized on 18 Jun 1813 at St. George's Episcopal Church in Schenectady, Schenectady Co. NY
18. Isaac5 NEFF (Jacob4, Hans Jacob3, Hans Konrad2, Hans Marti1). He was born on 19 Feb 1788 in NY. He died on 13 Sep 1880 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI and is buried in the Lake Mills Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. He was a farmer.
He married Polly BLACK, on 6 Feb 1817 in Scott's Corners, Cortland Co., NY. She was born on 17 Jan 1792 in Blanford, Middlesex Co. MA. She died on 1 Oct 1886 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI and was buried 4 Oct 1886 in the Lake Mills Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
DEED RECORDS: "Grantees Liber L. Page 396. Apr. 1, 1816, between Benjamin Pelton of Scot and Isaac and Cornelius Neff of the Town of Homer, 35 acres, 15 rods, part of Lot 92 in Scott. Consideration $490.27; Liber R. Page 220. Dec. 24, 1825, between Cornelius Neff and Susannah his wife of the Town of Homer and Isaac Neff of the Town of Scott, 35 acres, 15 rods, part of Lot 92 in the Town of Scott. Consideration $150; Liber P. Page 102. Apr. 10, 1828, between Russel Black and Electa his wife of Town of Homer and Isaac of the Town of Scott, 6 acres, part of Lot 92 in the Town of Scott. Consideration $50; Liber R. Page 221. May 27, 1831, between Isaac Neff and Polly his wife of the Town of Scott and John C. Frisbie of the same place, 41 acres, 15 rods, part of Lot 92, Town of Scott. Consideration $450.."(briefs of early deeds recorded in the Cortland County Clerk's Office)
Isaac Neff is listed as present in the town of Scott from 1819-26,28-32, 34-36.(From a list of names taken from the Scott Justice of the Peace Book from 1816-1837)
CENSUS RECORDS:
An Isaac Neff is in the 1820 Census for Scott, Cortland Co. NY, p. 575. The household is listed as having one boy under ten (William B. (1)), one man 16-26 (?), one man 26-45 (Isaac (32)), one daughter under ten (Caroline E. (2)), one woman aged 16-26 (Polly (28)), one person engaged in agriculture.
There is a record of a "Kneff, Isaac with five males, two females, and one voter" in the 1825 census for the Town of Scott, Cortland Co.
There is an Isaac Neff listed as an inhabitant of Scott. Cortland Co., NY for the year 1830 in the index to the NY Census.
There is a record of a "Neff, Isaac with seven males, four females, and one voter" in the 1835 census for the Town of Scott, Cortland Co.
There is an Isaac Neff listed as an inhabitant of Scott. Cortland Co., NY for the year 1840 in the index to the NY Census.
There is a record of a "Neff, Isaac with four males, three females, and one voter" in the 1845 census for the Town of Scott, Cortland Co.
SCHOOL RECORDS - "1824. District No. 3. Isaac Neff. 1 child. [Caroline E.]; 1825. District No. 3. Isaac Neff. 2 children [Caroline E., William B.]; 1826. District No. 3. Isaac Neff. 2 children [Caroline E., William B.]; 1827. District No. 3. Isaac Neff. 3 children [Caroline E., William B., Alburtis]; 1828. District No. 3. Isaac Neff. 3 children [Caroline E., William B., Alburtis]; 1829. District No. 3. Isaac Neff. 4 children [Caroline E., William B., Alburtis, Curtis]; 1830. District No. 3. Isaac Neff. 4 children [Caroline E., William B., Alburtis, Curtis]"(from the Scott Justice of the Peace Book, 1816-1837. Under the names of parents or guardians sending children to school between the ages of 5 and 15 years inclusive)
"They moved to Wisconsin in the years 1840 and 1850, purchased a farm in the Township of Lake Mills, on the road known as Town Line, where they lived the rest of their lives. (I think Grandma came from Vermont)." (Notes from "Aunt Lydia" (Lydia Martin Neff?))
Isaac appears in the 1850 census for Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI (age 61, CT) with his wife Polly (age 56, MA), their children Castil (27, NY), Ely (25, NY), Alzina (18, NY), Laura (26), Janette (18), and Daniel (15), the children were all born in NY.
Isaac appears in the 1860 census for Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI (age 71, NY) with his wife Polly (age 66, NY) together with their sons Daniel (24, NY) and Ely (34, NY), daughter-in-law Alzina (27, NY), and grandchildren Margaret (6), Frank (4), and Isabella (2), the latter three all born in WI.
Isaac was registered as an Elector of First Election district, Town of Lake Mills according to an article appearing in the Lake Mills Spike, 13 Oct 1879.
OBITUARY - "DIED. NEFF.- At the residence of Levi Neff, on Tuesday, September 14, 1880, Isaac Neff, aged ninety-two years." (Lake Mills Leader 21 Sep 1880, p. 3) "The funeral services of Mr. Isaac Neff was largely attended by numerous friends and relatives. Mr. Neff was an old resident, having attained the age of ninety-two years." (Lake Mills Leader 21 Sep 1880, p. 2) 2nd OBITUARY - "Local News... Old Mr. Neff, father of William and Eli Neff of Lake Mills, died on Tuesday, in the ninety-second year of his age." (Jefferson County Union 17 Sep 1860 v. 11 no. 28)
"-On Tuesday the children and grand-children and other relatives of Mrs. Polly Neff, gathered at her residence on the town line to celebrate the eighty-eighth anniversary of her birthday, by a surprise party. Altho having passed the period usually allotted to the human race, Mrs. Neff is as healthy and active as the average woman is at fifty, and entered in the spirit of the occasion with as much life and enjoyment as anyone present. A most pleasant time was enjoyed by all, and before leaving a number of handsome presents were given to 'Grandma'" (Lake Mills Spike 19 Jan 1882)
OBITUARY - "OBITUARY. MRS. POLLY NEFF. The subject of this brief sketch died in Lake Mills last Friday, October 1st. The cause of her death was not any particular disease, but she had lived her generous lease of life, and having done her full share in the 93 years she has lived, was called away without sickness or pain. Mrs. Neff was born in Blanford, Massachusetts, and was married to Mr. Neff in New York state. During the year 1845 they came to Wisconsin, settling in Racine county. One year later they removed to Lake Mills, where they ever afterwards resided. Some four years ago Mr. Neff died, since which time Mrs. Neff has resided with her son, Eli. There were born to her nine children, eight of whom are living. Six sons reside in this state; two in Lake Mills, two in Adams county, and two in Clark county. The two daughters, Mrs. John Young and Mrs. J. S. Jackson, reside in Lake Mills. the funeral services were held in the residence of Eli Neff on Sunday, October 4, Rev. Mr. Patterson officiating. During all Mrs. Neff's long life she was never once treated by a doctor for any disease, and even at the time of her death she had been confined to the bed but four days. She was a woman who made friends and kept them, and while her large circle of acquaintances deplore the loss to her children, they can but feel how kind it was in Him who rules to let her live far beyond the allotted time, and when the day for her cares and pleasures to cease had come, to so peacefully take her back." (Lake Mills Leader 7 Oct 1886, p. 2) 2ND OBITUARY "LAKE MILLS-Mrs. Isaac Neff, aged 93, mother of Wm., Eli and Bert Neff, one of Lake Mills' earliest settlers, having occupied the same farm for over 40 years, was consigned to the village cemetery last Sunday, the 3rd inst. Her companion passed before her about 5 years ago. Mrs. Neff, as well as Mr. Neff, will be missed by her neighbors and many friends, for enemies they had none...OAKLAND-Mrs. Neff, a very old lady who resided near the town line, was buried on Sunday last. The Rev. Peterson conducted the funeral services." (Jefferson County Union 8 Oct 1886, v. 17 no. 32, p. 1)
After their deaths, Isaac and Polly's descendants held a number of family reunions that were written up in a local newspaper:
"Reunion of the Descendants of Isaac and Polly Neff. In the early days when the stream of immigration was flowing westward Isaac and Polly Neff and eight of their nine children left their home in Cortland county, N. Y. to found a new home in the Great West. They settled first in Walworth Co., but a little later came to Lake Mills and bought the farm on the banks of Hope Lake which remained the family home until their death and for many years afterward was owned by their son. Last Thursday 19 of the descendants of this worthy pioneer coupled together with a grandson of the twin brother of Polly Neff, and wives, husbands and several old friends, gathered at Tyranena Park for their second annual reunion. There were present 5 grand children, 6 great grandchildren and 8 great great grandchildren and of these but three bore the family name, which seems in danger of passing in a few more generations as has been the case in several of the pioneer families of this vicinity. That the picnic dinner is quite an important consideration in such gatherings adding greatly to the enjoyment of the day, each of the 35 who gathered about the convenient tables furnished by the park and placed on a knoll overlooking our beautiful lake would gladly testify. At such gatherings acquaintances are renewed, family tradition recalled, and all are drawn closer together in the bonds of friendship and good fellowship. Such a day means much to the older people and is greatly enjoyed by the younger, therefore well worth the while. We believe that more frequent "Gatherings of the Clans" should be held to keep alive a sense of our obligation to those who toiled so incessantly that we who follow after them may enjoy the fruits of their labor, to promote sociability and to strengthen the bonds of fellowship." (Lake Mills Leader 2 Sep 1920, p. 1)
"Cousin's Picnic. The Annual Cousin's Picnic was held in Tyranena Park, Wednesday, July 19. After a bounteoaus dinner was served in the large dining room of the par, cards and games were indulged in. A visit to the plant of the Lake Mills Canning Co., and a launch ride around the lake were enjoyed by all. The following were in attendance. Mrs. L. Stetson, Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Stetson, Roger and George Stetson, Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Taylor and son Russell, Mr. and Mrs. D. B. Moore, Misses Blanche and Anna Moore, Miss Margaret Neff, Mr. and Mrs. O. P. Saunders, Vernah, Lilah, and Allen Saunders, Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Saunders, Howard and Robert Saunders, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Neff, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Neff, Mary Humphrey Saunders all of Cambridge; Mrs. Whitman, Madison, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. A. Dodd, Milton Jct., W. M. Carrier, Independence, Iowa, Mary Frantz, Neillville, Wis., Mrs. Charles Crapser and daughter Ellen Mae, of St. Paul, Minn., Mr. and Mrs. Archie Telfer, Elroy, Wis., Mrs. H. R. Black, Mrs. Frances Kypke, Rachel, Ruby Mae, Roger and Robert Breitkreutz, Lem Black." (Lake Mills Leader 27 Jul 1922.)
"NEFF FAMILY PICNIC The Neff family annual reunion, held at Tyranena Park on Wednesday last, was well attended. Relatives from Minneapolis, Elroy, Milton Junction, Fort Atkinson, Cambridge and Edgerton joined those living in town, bringing the attendance up to about 35." (Lake Mills Leader 26 Jul 1923.)
"NEFF COUSINS' PICNIC - July 18, 1923. Right glad and happy are we to be, members of the same ancestral tree. These yearly feastings bind the tie of kinship as the years go by; and prove to all that nature intends, because in us, the same blood blends. A tenderer love, within each bosom throbs, my dears, because we'er COUSINS.
Amid our feastings let us recall
Our grandsire, so straight and tall,
Snow white hair; a mind so true
To reason and clear of view.
His spoken word was known to be
Accepted, without a guarantee.
He value placed, beyond his time
On breeds of cow, and hen and swine.
He watched with tender paternal care
Each sturdy son and daughter fair,
That none from virtues path might stary
Or be mistaken in a business way.
We are truly sorry for all of you,
Born too late, you ne'er your frand dam knew
Short of statue, a rolly polly,
Happy faced - well named Aunt Polly.
All the household arts she knew
From the best soft soap to a 'par snip' stew,
The spinning of yarn and knitting socks
Making butter and bed quilt blocks.
A ready wit, quaint stories old
She had a store and aptly told
Fitted well in many a story.
Serenely gave her best without a worry.
Were this sturdy pair, here, today, with me
Too many barren branches would they see.
Born unto this most worthy pair
Six sturdy sons, three daughters fair
That followed where they led the way;
So it's fitting here, for us, today
Due homage pay, and vow to maintain
The sterling virtues of the NAME."
"NEFF FAMILY REUNION. The annual reunion of the Neff family descendants held at Tyranena Park, Thursday of last week was a pleasant occasion to be recalled with pleasure by the thirty-seven who were privileged to be present and among those were representatives from Mellette, S. D., Minneapolis, Elroy, Boston, Milton Jct., and Cambridge, in addition to the local members. The family 'tree' being compiled by Mrs. Addie Neff Holliday of Anaheim, Cal. came in for its due share of interest. This traces the origin of families in Switzerland early in the 16th century. An interesting agreement between Isaac Neff, the ancestor who settled in Wisconsin before it was admitted to the Union was read. This agreement was dated August 28, 1811, Elizabethtown, N. Y., and the said Isaac Neff, with three others, agreed to chop and clean off 50 acres of land fit for the harrow and seeding and build 12 rods of good and sufficient rail fence to each acre before the first day of September, 1812. For this work they were to receive 2 pounds 10 shillings currency per acre, one good quart of whiskey per acre, have their board and washing and have a team and chain furnished them. They agreed to house the ashes from the burning of the timber and were entitled to half of them. An excellent picture of the group was taken by Mr. Panzer which will serve as a reminder of this pleasant occasion." (Lake Mills Leader 12 Aug 1926) Here's a photograph believed to have been the one taken at this reunion.
"THE NEFF FAMILY REUNION. Family reunions are valuable in stimulating an interest in family history and tradition, and instilling in each succeeding generation an appreciation of the best in the lives of their ancestors. Descendants of Isaac and Polly Neff who came from New York in the early 40's and settled on the Town Line, held their annual reunion at Tyranena Park Thursday. Four generations were represented, there being 4 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, 12 great-great grandchildren, and 6 great-great-great-grandchildren of this worthy couple present. Two families of Neffs from Madison, descendants of the same line as the local branch of the family, met with them, and Mr. and Mrs. Fred C. Smith and daughter and grandson came on from Minneapolis for this occasion which left a pleasant memory in the life of each one of the fifty-four privileged to be present." (Lake Mills Leader 18 Jul 1929)
Isaac NEFF and Polly BLACK had the following children:
28 i. Caroline E.6 NEFF 29 ii. William B.6 NEFF 30 iii. Albertus6 NEFF 31 iv. Curtis B.6 NEFF 32 v. Eli B.6 NEFF 33 vi. Jacob6 NEFF 34 vii. Laura Ann6 NEFF 35 viii. Janette6 NEFF 36 ix. Daniel C.6 NEFF
Cornelius Neff is listed among a list of names for the year 1820 in the Scott Justice of the Peace Book from 1816-1837.
CENSUS RECORDS:
An Cornelius Neff is in the 1820 Census for Scott, Cortland Co. NY, p. 576. The household is listed as having one man aged 26-45 (Cornelius), two girls aged under ten, three girls 10-16, one woman aged 26-45 (Susannah ?), one person engaged in manufactures;
"A Cornelius Neff is listed as present in the 1835 census of the town of Homer, 2 males 4 females and 1 voter." (Clara Elder to Lewis Neff 8/3/1945)
A Cornelius Neff is listed in the 1840 census for Homer, Cortland Co. p. 129.
A Charles Neff is listed in the 1850 census for Lake Mills, Jefferson County, Wisconsin. This appears to be a reference to Cornelius, as it includes his wife Susan and daughter Olive.
A Cornelius Neff appears in the 1860 census for Elroy (Town of Plymouth), Juneau Co. NY, age 69 years old, living with Alexander and Olive Neff Telfer. His wife is not present.
A Cornelius Neff appears in the 1870 census for Elroy (Town of Plymouth), Juneau Co. NY, age 79 years old, living with Alexander and Olive Neff Telfer.
DEED RECORDS: "Grantees (briefs of early deeds recorded in the Cortland County Clerk's Office) Liber L. Page 396. Apr. 1, 1816, between Benjamin Pelton of Scot and Isaac and Cornelius Neff of the Town of Homer, 35 acres, 15 rods, part of Lot 92 in Scott. Consideration $490.27; Liber F. Page 396. Oct. 25, 1817, between Allen Gaylord of the Town of Hampden, County of New Haven, State of CT, and Cornelius Neff and Henry Black of the Town of Scott, part of Lot 93 in Scott. Consideration $800; Liber J. Page 51 Apr. 22, 1822, between Cornelius Neff of the Town of Homer and Susannah his wife and Asa Maxwell of Homer, 50 acres, part of Lot 90 in the Town of Scott. Consideration $140.03; Liber M. Page 474. Sep. 24, 1824, between James B. Clark of Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY and Eleanor his wife, and Cornelius Neff of the Town of Homer, 147 acres and 92/100 acre, part of Lot 24 in the Town of Homer. Consideration $481.28; Liber R. Page 220. Dec. 24, 1825, between Cornelius Neff and Susannah his wife of the Town of Homer and Isaac Neff of the Town of Scott, 35 acres, 15 rods, part of Lot 92 in the Town of Scott. Consideration $150; Liber M. Page 485. Apr. 19, 1827, between Cornelius Neff and Susannah his wife of the Town of Homer and Westeley Batchellor of the same place, 40 acres, 16 rods, part of Lot 24, in the Town of Scott. Consideration $320; Liber S. Page 191. June 9, 1830, between Cornelius Neff and Susannah his wife of Homer and William Walter of the same place, 37 acres, part of Lot 24, Town of Homer. Consideration $500."
He married Susannah M.. She was born ca. 1792 according to the 1850 census. She died sometime before the 1860 census and was buried in Lot 50 of the Fowler Prairie Cemetery, Elroy, Juneau Co. WI.
Cornelius NEFF and Susannah M. had the following children:
37 i. Olive6 NEFF
"Kneff, Abraham 1 males 1 female 1 voter" (1825 Census - Cortland Co., Scott Town)
Present in the index for the 1830 census of NY, at Homer, Cortland Co. p. 124.
"Neff, Abram 3 males 4 females 1 voter" (1835 Census - Cortland Co., Homer Town)
"Neff, ---, child of Abram, died in this town, 2d inst. aged 10 months" (Cortland Observer, Oct. 18, 1826)
"Had one son who died during the Civil War" (Aunt Lydia notes)
i. Harry C.6 NEFF
She may be the Polly Neff admitted under the Ministry of Rev. H. A. Wood, 1821 (Records of First Dutch Reformed Church, Town of Amsterdam, NY (now Reformed Church of Fonda, NY)).
A Nathan Neff is listed in the 1830 census for Homer, Cortland Co. p. 124.
RECORD OF MARRIAGE- " Marriage- Neff, Nathan (of Homer, farmer a. 22 y. - B), & Miss Jane Martin (of Homer, housekeeper, a 22 y. - B) , m. 1st inst. by Rev. Alfred Bennet. (Witnesses:... Lacy, Silas B. Neff - B.)" (Cortland Observer, Feb 5, 1830.)
"Grantees (briefs of early deeds recorded in the Cortland County Clerk's Office) Liber U. Page 527. Jul. 29, 1833, between Stephen Storey and Polly his wife of the Town of Homer and George W. Neff and Joseph Atwater of the Town of Homer, 1 acres, part of Lot 23 in the Town of Homer. Consideration $300".
28. Caroline E.6 NEFF (Isaac5, Jacob4, Hans Jacob3, Hans Konrad2, Hans Marti1). She was born on 23 Jan 1818 in Scott's Corners Cortland Co. NY. She died on 24 Aug 1904 in Oakland, Jefferson Co., WI and was buried on 27 Aug 1904 in Rock Lake Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. She was a member of the Congregational Church.
"Moved from Cortland Co., NY in 1856 to the Township of Lake Mills, where they purchased a farm, then later moved to the village of Lake Mills, where he died and where both he and his wife are buried. Later, Caroline Neff Jackson lived with her daughter, Laura, in the Township of Oakland, Jefferson Co., and later in the village of Lake Mills, until her death in 1904." (Aunt Lydia notes)
She married Isaac L. JACKSON on 5 Feb 1842 in Scott's Corners Cortland Co. NY. He was born on 20 Jul 1823 and died on 5 Feb 1858 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. He is buried in the Lake Mills Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
OBITUARY - "Mrs. Isaac Jackson Dead. Died, at the home of her daughter Mrs. L. L. Stetson in this village Wednesday August 24th 1904, Mrs. Isaac Jackson, aged 86 years, 7 months and 1 day. Miss Caroline E. Neff was born in Scott, Cortland county, New York on the 23rd day of January 1818, was married to Mr. Isaac Jackson in 1842 which union was blessed with three daughters, Mrs. Mary I. Fisch who passed away 20 years ago, Mrs. Laura L. Stetson of Lake Mills, and Mrs. Adel Rice of Boston. In 1856 Mr. and Mrs. Jackson came to Lake Mills to reside after which Mr. Jackson survived but two years. For the past 38 years, Mrs. Jackson has resided with her daughter, Mrs. L. L. Stetson, shedding on life's pathway the sunshine of love and gentleness, with loving hearts around her to give willing response to tender solicitude which marked her daily life for the good of all. Up to the time of her brief but fatal illness she had was an active life, favored by remarkably good health which enabled her to participate in many household activities, and with a keen youthful vision which permitted her to read and do fine needlework without artificial aid. In the midst of precious home surroundings, with an abundant gathering of love's sweet fruitage death's beckoning hand lured her from earthly scenes, and she passed peacefully to the great beyond on Wednesday August 24th 1904, with the blessings of loved ones resting upon her. Three brothers, Curt and Jacob Neff of White Creek, Adams county, Wis. and Daniel Neff, of Neillsville, Clark county, Wis., and one sister, Mrs. John Young of Lake Mills together with her two daughters, and their families survive her to mourn her departure. The funeral was held at the house, on Saturday Aug. 27 at 2 o'clock p. m. Rev. Benjamin Staunton pastor of the Congregational church officiating. Many friends of the family and neighbors from the village and country were in attendance to give evidence of their regard for the dead and their sympathy for the bereaved." (Lake Mills Leader, 1 Sep 1904, p. 1). 2nd OBITUARY - "Death of Mrs. Jackson at Lake Mills. The following notice comes from the Lake Mills Leader. The deceased was well known in Oakland. Died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. L. L. Stetson in this village, Mrs. Isaac Jackson, aged 85 years, 7 months and 1 day. Miss Caroline E. Neff was born in Scott, Cortland County, New York on the 23rd day of January 1818, was married to Mr. Isaac Jackson in 1842 which union was blessed with three daughters, Mrs. Mary I. Fisch who passed away twenty years ago, Mrs. Laura L. Stetson, of Lake Mills, and Mrs. Adel Rice of Boston. In 1856 Mr. and Mrs. Jackson came to Lake Mills to reside after which Mr. Jackson survived but two years. For the past 38 years Mrs. Jackson has resided with her daughter, Mrs. L. L. Stetson, shedding on life's pathway the sunshine of live and gentleness, with loving hearts around her to give willing response to the tender solicitude which marked her daily life for the good of all. Three brothers, Curt and Jacob Neff, of White Creek, Adams County, Wis., and Daniel Neff, of Neillsville, Clark County, Wis., and one sister, Mrs. John Young, of Lake Mills together with her two daughters, and their families survive to mourn her departure." (Jefferson County Union 8 Mar 1878 v. 8 no. 52.)
Caroline E. NEFF and Isaac L. JACKSON had the following children:
38 i. Mary Jane7 JACKSON 39 ii. Laura Luvilla7 JACKSON 40 iii. Adelia Maria7 JACKSON
"Moved to Wisconsin, married Electa Frank. They owned a farm on Town Line Road where they lived. After Electa's death, he married Mrs. Margaret Stocking about 1867. They moved to the village of Lake Mills." (Aunt Lydia notes)
William NEFF married (1) Electa FRANK ca. 1840. She was born in 1829. She died on 6 Feb 1863.
William NEFF married (2) Margaret WASHBURN ca. 1867 in WI. She was born on 9 Jul 1830 in NY. She died on 6 Mar 1905 in Jefferson, Jefferson Co. WI and was buried on 9 Mar 1905 in the Greenwood Cemetery.
OBITUARY - "Died at his home in this village Wednesday, Oct. 19, 1898, Mr. William B. Neff, at the age of 79 years 3 months and 10 days. The funeral services were held at the home on Friday, Oct. 19th at 2 o'clock p. m. conducted by the members of the local Lodge of Odd Fellows, Rev. J. J. Garvin, of Ft. Atkinson, officiating as chaplain. Mr. Neff was born in Cortland county, New York, on the 1st day of June 1819. He came to Wisconsin in the early forties, and for about two years worked for Mr. Goodrich at Milton. He came to Lake Mills in 1844, and entered a piece of land in section 33. In 1877 he sold his farm and settled in the village of Lake Mills, where he resided until the day of his death. He was a supervisor of this town for a number of years and was an efficient and faithful officer. He led a quiet, unostentatious life: thought much of his home and was beloved by his neighbors for his quiet, even, and unaffected life, and for his high regard for the rights of others. Many friends and neighbors were in attendance at the funeral, to extend their sympathy to the bereaved, and pay their last respects to the dead. Mr. Neff left behind him a widow, Mrs. Margaret Neff, to bear the deep grief which death has imposed upon her, who in her sadness and loneliness will have the comfort of many friends. Three brothers, Jacob, Curtis Neff, of White Creek, Adams county, Wis., and Daniel Neff, of Wood county, Wis., and one sister, Mrs. John Young, of the village of Lake Mills, are the members of the deceased's family, who still survive. Only one brother, Jacob, was able to be at the funeral. Curtis Neff arriving after the sad event passed, too late to look upon the peaceful face of his departed brother." (27 Oct 1898 Lake Mills Leader)
NOTICE OF DEATH - "Mr. William Neff, one of the early settlers here, and well known to nearly all the citizens of Lake Mills and vicinity, died Wednesday morning a few minutes before 7 o'clock at his residence on Madison St. The funeral services will be held at the house on Friday at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, under the auspices of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of which he was a member." (20 Oct 1898 Lake Mills Leader)
"The thanks of Mrs. Neff, Mrs. H. B. Davis and Mrs. Daniel Stocking, are hereby extended to the kind neighbors and friends, especially to the ladies of the Oddfellow's families, for their assistance and sympathy during the last illness of Mr. Neff." (27 Oct 1898 Lake Mills Leader)
OBITUARY - "JEFFERSON... Mrs. Henry Jackson died suddenly at her home in this city Monday, March 6th. Mrs. Jackson was born in the state of New York July 9th, 1830 and came to Jefferson when a young girl. Here she was married to Sidney Stocking, who died many years ago. From this marriage four sons and one daughter survive. Later she married Wm. B. Neff of Lake Mills, who died a few years ago. About a year ago she was again married to Mr. Henry Jackson. The funeral services will be held Thursday p. m. and the interment will take place in Greenwood cemetery... DIED... JACKSON-At her home in Jefferson, Wisconsin, Monday March 6, 1905, Mrs. Margaret Jackson of that city, aged nearly 75 years. Mrs. Jackson was formerly Mrs. Stocking and is survived by four sons and one daughter. One of her sons, D. C. Stocking, is the well known gunsmith of this city. Mrs. Jackson was born July 9, 1830. [See further particulars in our Jefferson correspondence.]" (Jefferson County Union 10 Mar 1906 v. 36 no. 5)
"Moved to the township of Lake Mills about 1848. Purchased a farm on Town Line then later sold this farm and bought one, where they lived until about 1859 or 1860, when they moved to a farm in Aztland, where Mary Roxy Neff died Nov. 29, 1860, and she is buried at the cemetery at Lake Mills. In November 1867, Al Neff married Isabelle Short, township of Oakland, WI. In the fall of 1868 they moved to the town of Levis, Clark Co., where they purchased a farm and lived until Alburtis Neff died, 24 Jun 1899, and is buried in the Neillsville [Neillsville] Cemetery." (Aunt Lydia notes)
Albertus married (1) Mary Roxy BABCOCK, daughter of Justin BABCOCK & Zelenda, on 10 Oct 1844 in Cortland Co., NY. She was born ca. 1824. She died on 29 Nov 1860 in Aztalan, Jefferson Co. WI and was buried in the Rock Lake Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
There is a record of a "Neff, Albirtis with one male, one female, and one voter" in the 1845 census for the Town of Scott, Cortland Co.
Albertus NEFF and Mary Roxy BABCOCK had the following children:
41 i. Charles James7 NEFF 42 ii. Dorr Alburtis7 NEFF iii. Byron7 NEFF. He was born on 1 Jul 1854 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. He died on 29 Jul 1857. 43 iv. Addie Olivia7 NEFF 44 v. Angie7 NEFF
Albertus married (2) Isabelle SHORT on 27 Nov 1867 in Oakland, Jefferson Co., WI. She was born on 10 Sep 1843 and died on 20 Mar 1901.
OBITUARY- "Word was received last week of the death of Albertus Neff, at his home in Neillsville, Clark Co. He was one of the early settlers of town line, and was a brother of the late Wm. B. and Eli Neff. He left this place and went to Clark county about 30 years ago." (Lake Mills Leader 5 Jul 1900)
"[Curtis] moved to Adams Co. soon after marriage, purchased a farm near the town of Easton, where he spent the rest of his life" (Aunt Lydia notes)
He married Nancy FRANK on 28 Dec 1850 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. She died ca. 1877. They had the following children:
i. Caroline7 NEFF ii. Henry7 NEFF. Died Sep 1934 in Friendship, WI. iii. Laura7 NEFF iv. William7 NEFF v. George7 NEFF vi. Curtis7 NEFF Jr.
He married Mary Alzina FRANK, daughter of George FRANK & Esther BROWN, ca. 1850. She was born in Sep 1832 in Scott's Corners Cortland Co. NY. She died on 23 Dec 1873 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI and was buried in the Rock Lake Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
"[Eli] moved from New York with his parents in the early 40s of 1800. After marriage, they lived the remainder of their lives with Eli Neff's parents on the farm on Town Line, township of Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI" (Aunt Lydia notes)
OBITUARY - "Obituary. Died at his home in the town of Lake Mills on Saturday April 23d, 1898, Mr. Eli Neff in the 73d year of his age, after a brief illness. Mr. Neff was born in Scott, Cortland County, New York, March 23d, 1825 and came to Wisconsin in 1845 and since 1847 he had been a resident of this town. Mr. Neff had five brothers and two sisters, one sister dying in 1869 the other with his brothers survive him. He had been a widower for nearly 25 years his wife having departed this life Dec 23d. 1873, leaving behind her two sons and two daughters to share their widowed father's grief and who now survive him to mingle their grief in this last sad bereavement. The other surviving relatives citizens of this village and well known to our people are a brother and a sister, Mr. William Neff and Mrs. John Young. Mr. Neff was a man of good character, domestic in disposition, a kind father, good neighbor, and an excellent citizen, and will be long remembered by his large circle of friends. He recently sold his farm on which he had lived in frugality and contentment, and had made arrangements to live in Cambridge where he could rest from his labors in comfort and ease, but the grim messenger claimed him before his plans could be consummated. The funeral was held at the house on Monday, April 25th, attended by a large number of neighbors and friends from both Jefferson and Dane counties, who gathered to pay their respects to the dead friend and give consolation to the bereaved. The services were conducted by Rev. Moses Breeze of Cambridge, and the burial was in the Lake Mills cemetery." (28 Apr 1898 Lake Mills Leader); Second obituary- "SOUTH-WEST LAKE MILLS... Eli Neff, one of the oldest settlers in these parts, died last Saturday evening. The funeral was held at his old home where a number of friends gathered to pay their last respects to the dead. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Breeze of Cambridge." (28 Apr 1898 Lake Mills Leader)
CARD OF THANKS - "We hereby extend our heartfelt thanks to the neighbors and friends who so kindly assisted us during the sickness, death, and burial of our father and for the flowers so generously donated, also to the choir for the rendering of such appropriate songs. Miss Maggie Neff, Mr. and Mrs. E. U. Neff, Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Neff, Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Dodd" (28 Apr 1898 Lake Mills Leader)
Eli NEFF and Mary Alzina FRANK had the following children:
45 i. Margaret Frank7 NEFF 46 ii. Frank G.7 NEFF 47 iii. Ella7 NEFF 48 iv. Mary E.7 NEFF (Died young) 49 v. Edward U.7 NEFF
"[Jacob] came west with his father's family. Married Jane __. " Jane, his wife, was brought up by Uncle Cornelius Neff, d. 1883, leaving one son Archie who lives at Easton, Adams Co.. No children" (Aunt Lydia notes)
He married Sarah Jane NEFF on 27 Mar 1851 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. (Record of marriage in Jefferson County Courthouse, v. E, p. 148)
"[Laura] came west with her father's family. Married Nathan Howard Humphrey, Mar 28, 1850. They lived on a farm in Dane Co. not far from Cambridge." (Aunt Lydia notes)
She married Nathan Howard HUMPHREY, son of Lemvil HUMPHREY & Abigail ROSE, on 28 May 1851 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. They had the following children:
i. Rufus7 HUMPHREY (Died young) 50 ii. Mary Louise7 HUMPHREY
She married John YOUNG, son of James YOUNG & Isabella SMITH, on 9 Dec 1851 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. He was born on 23 May 1824 in North Umberland, Scotland. He died on 27 Jan 1897 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI and was buried on 27 Jan 1897 in the Rock Lake Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. He was a dairy farmer and a salesman and manager for the Star Creamery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. He was a member of the Congregational Church, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. Information about her husband's family and Janette's descendants is available here.
THIRTIETH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY-"On the 10th of December 1851, John Young and his wife started together on their matrimonial life and during the thirty years past have 'lived wisely and well.' Saturday last being the thirtieth anniversary of the wedding day a number of the friends concluded to give the worthy couple a surprise party and to celebrate the linen wedding. With this object in view a goodly number of friends gathered at the hospitable home of John Young and took possession; soon the object of the visit was made known and a right royal time ensued. Ample refreshments were served by Mrs. Young, after doing full justice to the tempting viands, Mr. and Mrs. Young were presented with some very handsome articles of linen as souvenirs of the occasion. The pleasant gathering soon after dispersed with the hopes that the couple might be spared to celebrate their Golden Wedding." (Lake Mills Spike 15 Dec 1881)
OBITUARY- "Mrs. Janette Neff Young. Mrs. Janette Neff Young, widow of John Young, was born April 15, 1832 in Scot, N. Y., and died at her home in Lake Mills, June 26, 1919, after a protracted illness. She was the last of nine children of the Neff family. Mrs. Young was united in marriage with Mr. John Young, December 9, 1851. For many years they lived on a farm in the town of Lake Mills, and then moved to the recent home on South Main street. Eight children were the result of this union of whom Mrs. Fred C. Smith of Minneapolis, Mrs. Emil Brunn, of Mellette, S. D., and Mrs. David Bowden of Fox Lake, Wis., are living. Mrs. William Breitkreutz, an elder daughter, preceded her mother in death. Mr. Young died 22 years ago. Mrs. Young was a church member. She was a real home maker and when in her prime her hospitality was well known and highly appreciated by a large circle of friends. The children and grandchildren were present at the funeral and the daughters were accompanied by their husbands. The funeral services were held at the residence Sunday afternoon and conducted by Rev. L. C. Partch of Columbus and Rev. O. E. Reidenbach of this city. The interment took place in Rock Lake cemetery." (Lake Mills Leader 3 Jul 1919, no. 34, p. 1) 2nd OBITUARY - "Died in her home on S. Main St. on Friday, June 27, 1919, Mrs. John Young, aged 80 years. The funeral service was held at the home on Sunday afternoon. Mrs. Young fell and broke her hip a number of years ago and has since been a great sufferer. Mr. Young died several years ago. They were among our early settlers, their farm home being west of Lake Mills. Here they reared and educated their four daughters, the oldest, Mrs. Wm. Breitkreutz, died a few years ago. Mrs. Fred Smith lives in Minneapolis and Mrs. Emil Brun in Mellette, S. D. They have spent much time with their mother." (The Jefferson Banner 2 Jul 1919 v. 59). 3rd OBITUARY- "Mrs. John Young died at her home here on Friday after a long illness. The funeral services were held on Sunday, Rev. L. C. Partch officiating." (Jefferson County Union 4 Jul 1919 vol. L, no. 24).
"In Appreciation. Fully appreciating the kindness extended by neighbors and friends before and after the death of our beloved mother, we desire to thank all most heartily. We wish to thank the ministers for their kind and thoughtful ministrations and all others who assisted in the services. We desire to express our high appreciation of those who contributed the flowers. Mr. & Mrs. Fred C. Smith, Mr. & Mrs. Emil Brun, Mr. & Mrs. David Bowden." (Lake Mills Leader 3 Jul 1919, no. 34, p. 2)
WILL -"I Janett Young of Lake Mills, Jefferson County, Wisconsin, being of sound mind and memory do make, publish and declare this my last will and testament. First- It is my will that all of my just debts and funeral expenses be paid for out of my personal estate. Second-I give, devise and bequeath to my daughter, Etta Smith and to her heirs forever one-fourth of my estate. Third-I give, devise and bequeath to my daughter, Josephine Brunn and to her heirs forever one fourth of my estate. Fourth-I give, devise and bequeath to my daughter, Nettie Belle Bowdin and to her heirs forever one-fourth of my estate. Fifth, I give, devise and bequeath to the children of my deceased daughter, Myra Breitkreutz, one fourth of my estate to be divided share and share alike. Said children being named as follows- Frances Breitkreutz, Laura Breitkreutz, Addie Breitkreutz, Alfred Breitkreutz, Dorothy Breitkreutz, and Vera Breitkreutz. Sixth- I hereby nominate and appoint C. S. Greenwood of Lake Mills, Jefferson County, Wisconsin executor of this, my last will and testament. In witness thereof I have hereto set my hand and seal this 22nd day of September A. D. 1906. Janett Young
"[Daniel] moved with his father's family to Jefferson Co., WI 1844. Moved to Clark Co. WI 1875 and purchased a farm at Day near Neillsville. Moved to Neillsville 1906 [Neillsville]" (Aunt Lydia notes)
He married Lydia A. MARTIN on 27 Feb 1868 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. She died on 16 Jul 1917 in Neillsville, Clark Co. WI. They had the following children:
51 i. Mary7 NEFF 52 ii. Myrtle7 NEFF
OBITUARY: " Mr. C. M. Telfer received a telegram on Tuesday announcing the death of Mrs. Olive Telfer, wife of Alexander Telfer, of that place. Many in South Lake Mills and North Oakland will remember her as Miss Olive Neff. After her marriage, she with her husband moved to the town of Elroy, Juneau Co., Wis. Many friends in this vicinity and in the town where she lived, will mourn her departure. A loving husband and two sons can look forward to the bright beyond as a place where they will meet her again." (Cambridge 21 Dec 1894)
38. Mary Jane7 JACKSON (Caroline E.6 NEFF, Isaac5, Jacob4, Hans Jacob3, Hans Konrad2, Hans Marti1). She was born on 27 Jun 1844 in Scott's Corners Cortland Co. NY. She died on 10 Feb 1880 in Township Of Oakland, Jefferson Co. WI and was buried on 11 Feb 1880 in the Rock Lake Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. She married George FISCH ca. 1870.
OBITUARY- "DIED. Fish.-At the home of Leander Stetson, on Tuesday, Feb. 10th, 1880, Mrs. Mary Jackson Fish, aged 35 years." (Lake Mills Spike 17 Feb 1880) 2nd OBITUARY- "Cambridge.... Mrs. Mary Fish, formerly Miss Jackson, died of a protracted illness at the residence of her brother-in-law, Leander Stetson, about two miles east of town. She was a very estimable lady, quiet and unassuming in her manner, and leaves a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn her loss..." (20 Feb 1880 Jefferson County Union v. 10, no. 50)
FUNERAL NOTICE "The funeral services of the late Mrs. Mary Fish were conducted on Thursday night by Rev. R. Quaife. There was a large gathering of relatives and friends in attendance." (Lake Mills Spike 17 Feb 1880) 2nd FUNERAL NOTICE "Jottings from 'ye Jotter'... Mrs. Fish, sister of Mrs. L. Stetson, of Oakland, was buried on the 11th inst." (20 Feb 1880 Jefferson County Union v. 10, no. 50)
MEMORIAL LETTER- "MISS MARY JACKSON FISH. It is hard for me to realize that the gentle lady who bore the name above, has passed from my life. My earliest childhood friend, my girlhood's confidant, and this womanhood of sickness and suffering still true as the stars to the faith of her earlier years. So quiet and reserved that few were aware of her worth; so distrustful of her own abilities, yet always, as a student, one of the foremost in her class. Few women in Wisconsin surpass her in scholarship, and none in integrity of character. Without envy, above malice, she based her own womanhood upon its real worth and gave justice to all others, failing not to delight in whatsoever is good and beautiful, with that generosity which was her nature. I believe she was wholly incapable of unworthy thought or speech. She observed silence rather than speak ill, or to no purpose. One after another the old friends are laid in the little cemetery. New friends come, but not to take their places. Life grows heavy with the cares it brings; death seems not so great a foe, with so many on the other shore. The little Lake is dearer for the memory of dead feet that have walked its shores; none dearer, none more devoted, none surer to tread the golden streets of the Heavenly City, than Mary, whose life was sacred to Friendship and faithful to Love. MARION V. DUDLEY Milwaukee, Feb. 11, 1880." (Lake Mills Spike 17 Feb 1880)
OBITUARY- "Mr. Leander Stetson. Mr. Leander L. Stetson was born April 18, 1838 in Warren, Vermont. At the age of eleven he left his home in the east with his parents and his three sisters and journeyed westward to Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, where relatives had preceded htem in that great wave of emigration which swept towards the west in those early times. For a year the family lived on a farm near Fort Atkinson. At the end of that time the father purchased the farm in Oakland, where Mr. Stetson spent the greater part of his life. In 1854 his father died leaving to his only son, then only sixteen years of age, the care of the farm and the family. This responsibility he bore patiently and uncomplainingly. Here for over fifty years he worked faithfully, and by hard labor, attained that success which won him the name of one of the best farmers of the country. It was here that he acquired those sterling qualities of character which only the trials and hardships of pioneering life can give. In 1866 he married Miss Laura Jackson. Four children were born into the home, all of whom were with him to cheer and comfort at thelast. Nine years ago being obliged to leave the farm on account of failing strength, he moved to Lake Mills where he remained until his death, March 24, at the age of seventy-four. Mr. Stetson leaves to mourn his loss, his wife, four children, Winslow, Mrs. Bruce Taylor, and Eugene of this city, and Mrs. George Gohlke of Boston, Mass., seven grandchildren and two sisters, Mrs. William Telfer of Oakland and Mrs. J.W. Uglow of Concordia, Kansas. Mr. Stetson's life speaks for itself. Those who knew him recognized in him the elements which make a man. Besides being an ideal husband and father he was a good friend and neighbor, always thoughtful of others. The fact that would be against Mr. Stetson's wishes, restrains us from eulogizing the good he has accomplished. It must suffice to say that he leaves a host of friends who will miss him, and who, if they should speak, would testify that their lives are the better for having known him." (Lake Mills Leader 4 Apr 1912)
OBITUARY- "THE PASSING OF MRS. LAURA STETSON. Laura L. Jackson, second child of Caroline Neff and Isaac S. Jackson was born in Scott, Courtland county, N.Y., May 25, 1847. At the age of nine years she came with her parents and two sisters to the village of Lake Mills where the family lived for a period of two years, when the father died. Then the mother with her three small daughters moved to a farm in the Town Line neighborhood to be near her parents and other relatives. Here the daughters grew to womanhood and with the mother experienced the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life, sharing also the sinmple pleasures and the neighborly helpfulness peculiar to those early days. On December 20, 1866, she was married to L. Leander Stetson, and in this same neighborhood they brought up the four children who came to bless their home. Winslow T., Carrie B., (now Mrs. Bruce Taylor), Mable M. (now Mrs. George Gohlke), and M. Eugene. Of these but the two daughters remain. In 1903 the family moved from the farm to Lake Mills and from the home on College street funeral services were held Tuesday, May 10, for Mrs. Stetson, who passed away Sat-" (19 May 1927)
They had the following children:
53 i. Winslow Thomas8 STETSON 54 ii. Carrie B.8 STETSON 55 iii. Mabel M.8 STETSON 56 iv. Melvin Eugene8 STETSON (Died young)
"Lived many years in Boston and Chelsea, then later moved to South Sudbury, MA, where Mr. Rice died in South Sudbury, Sep. 1916, and wife died in South Sudbury, Sep." (Aunt Lydia notes)
She married Ugine RICEca. 1872. He died in Sep 1916 in South Sudbury, MA.
"Entered war during Mar 1864. Was killed at the battle of Petersburg, 1864. After his mother's death in 1860 he lived with his Grandmother Babcock, Rays Corners, Jefferson Co., until enlisted in the Civil War in 1864" (Aunt Lydia notes)
"After the death of his mother he lived with his uncle William Babcock, near Palymyra, Jefferson Co. WI, until the fall of 1868, when he joined his father and moved to Clark Co. WI, near the city of Neillsville [Neillsville]. He resided on the farm in the town of Levis until 1918, when he went to Portland, Oregon to visit his daughter Alberta Proctor. In April, 1921 he visited his sister Angie Neff and was killed in Pasadena in an automobile accident on May 2, 1921." (Aunt Lydia notes)
"D.A. Neff, a farmer residing on section 1, Levis Township, was born in Jefferson County, Wisconsin, June 18, 1851, son of A.L. and Mary Neff. He was educated in the district schools of Jefferson County, and at the early age of thirteen years began to show a spirit of independence by working out on farms. At first he received only $8 per month, but his wages were gradually increased. In 1868 he came to Clark County, where he has since made his home. He has had many years of experience in the lumber camps, working for himself and others, and in that way accumulated a little start. In 1872 he bought his present farm in Levis Township, which consists of 160 acres. By the expenditure of much time and hard labor he has cleared his land and has it under a fine state of cultivation. He is regarded as one of the enterprising citizens of the township; he is a Republican and takes an active part in politics. Mr. Neff was married, July 11, 1878, to Agnes Carter, who was born in Jefferson County, Wisconsin, in 1853. She attended school in Minnesota, is well educated, and taught several terms before her marriage. She is a lady of much culture and refinement and is fond of reading. Three children have been born to them. Mr. Neff has been Town Treasurer two years, School Trustee for eight years, and Chairman one term. He is the present Constable of Levis Township"(1891 Biographical History of Clark and Jackson Counties Wisconsin)
"DORR A. NEFF Dorr A. Neff, proprietor of a good farm in Levis Township, was born in Lake Mill Township, Jefferson County, Wis., June 18, 1851, son of Albertus and Mary (Babcock) Neff. The father was a native of Cortland County, N.Y., and was a farmer. He and his family came to Wisconsin, locating first in Jefferson County, whence they came to Clark County in the fall of 1868. The journey was made by train to Sparta, and then by stage through Black River Falls, to Neillsville, where they arrived with nothing but a few dollars in cash. Their family at this time consisted of three children, besides the father, namely: Dorr A., Addie and Angie. They got a yoke of cattle, building a log stable, and also had a cow. The mother had died in Jefferson County when the subject of this sketch was 9 years old, and Albertus Neff married for a second wife, Isabelle Short. She died in 1902 and Albertus passing away in 1901, at the age of 78 years, in Clark County. He had continued to make his home on the farm, a part of which he had cleared. In the fall of 1868, Dorr A. Neff, then 18 years old, began working in the woods as a "swamper" for A.W. Clark. In March of the following year he bought a tract of forty acres in Section 1, Levis Township, there being an old log house on the place, and the trees cut on seven acres. A road had been laid out and partly cut over. Here his father and stepmother, with the children, took up their residence, and he cleared a little more of the land, after which he went to work for old Dr. French on Jack Creek, to prepare for running logs. Later, he worked in the woods for A. Jones French, the doctor's brother, and in the following spring was engaged in the drive on Wedges' Creek. He then resumed the work of clearing his farm, but the next winter worked for Anson Green, on Poplar River. After again working on his farm, he was employed the succeeding winter by J.W. Wilson in logging on Cunningham Creek. Each summer he spent on his farm, his next winter's employment being on the East Fork of Black River. For six or seven years he was foreman for T.M. Schranton. In July of the first summer that he spent on his farm he had bought forty acres more in the same section of Levis Township, which tract also was covered with timber. His farm is now well cleared and has been still further increased in size, as he has since bought two other forty-acre tracts, making a total of 160 acres. His present residence is a frame dwelling of eight rooms, the original log house, which stood in front of it, having had one room only. During the early years Mr. Neff raised sheep, but now keeps cows and devotes his attention to dairying, raising graded Holstein cattle. He aided in getting roads cut through the township, and has performed other useful service, having been at various times a member and chairman of the Levis Township board, and having also the district school board, and his sister, Addie, who is now Mrs. C. C. Holliday, of Minneapolis, was at one time for two terms county school superintendent. Mr. Neff is a member of the Equitable Fraternity Union. A Republican in politics, he has taken part in county conventions and for Real Estate Company of Lake Mills to this section, and they have since done useful work in the county. The second season after Mr. Neff settled in Levis Township a school district was formed here, with his assistance and a small log schoolhouse built, the first teacher being Lydia Irely. She later married J.L. Gates, former head of the Gates Land Company, of Neillsville. Dorr A. Neff was married in 1878, to Agnes Carter, who was born in Jefferson County, daughter of Edward and Mary Carter, who settled in Washburn Township, Clark County, where both died. Mr. Carter was, for a number of years prominent in the affairs of that township. Mrs. Neff died in 1902, at the age of 43 years, leaving four children - Alberta, Gladys, Lola and Charles. Alberta, who married Walter Proctor, now resides in Portland.; she has two children, Louise and William. Gladys lives on the home farm with her father. Lola, whi is the wife of Hugh Campbell, lives in Cincinnati; she has two children, Agnes and Bruce. Charles resides on the home farm. He married Elvira Hemp, Oct 11, 1917. All three daughters taught school in Clark County, while Gladys is now teaching music." (From "The History of Clark County, Wisconsin" compiled by Franklyn Curtis-Wedge and published in 1918 by H.C. Cooper, Jr. & Co.; pp. 449-450)
He married Agnes CARTER, daughter of Edward CARTER & Mary STAFFORD, on 11 Jul 1878. She died in 1902.
OBITUARY- "Dorr A. Neff b. Lake Mills, WI Jun 18, 1851, son of Albertis and Mary Neff. In 1868 family moved to Clark Co. and settled at Levis. Married in 1878 Agnes Carter of Washington, WI. She died 1902, leaving four children, Alberta; Mrs. W. G. Proctor; Miss Gladys Neff, a trained nurse; Lola, wife of Hugh Campbell of Cincinnatti; O. and Charles a home farm at Levis. He leaves two sisters, Addie, now Mrs. C.C. Holliday of Minneapolis and Miss Angie Neff of Pasadena; also an adopted brother, Harvey A. Neff of Pasadena.."
Dorr Alburtis NEFF and Agnes CARTER had the following children:
57 i. Alberta Edna8 NEFF 58 ii. Gladys Adele8 NEFF 59 iii. Charles William8 NEFF 60 iv. Lola B.8 NEFF
"After her mother's death in Nov 1860, she and her sister Angie lived near Palmyra, Jefferson Co., WI, about four years-then returned to Lake Mills, Angie living with Aunt Caroline Jackson and Addie most of the time with Uncle Riley Black, near the Country School House. The two went to Clark Co., to live in the spring of 1869. In the spring of 1872, Addie taught a country school and alternated, teaching with attendancy two winters at the high school in Neillsville [Neillsville] until she (Angie) entered the Normal School at River Falls, 1877, where she stayed until May of the year 1878. Taught in the Neillsville grade school the year of 79 and 80 - alternating teaching with attending school until she graduated at the R. F. Normal School in June 1884. Was Superintendent of Schools for Clark Co., 1885 to 1889. Taught two years in Ashland, six years in Superior, WI. Married Cortland Cook Holliday Aug 17, 1896. They lived in Minneapolis, MN until Sep 1923, when they moved to Anaheim, CA." (Aunt Lydia notes)
She married Cortland Cook HOLLIDAY, son of Cortland Cook HOLLIDAY & Lucina BLACKMORE, on 17 Aug 1896. He was born ca. 1854 in Green Castle, Patman Co., IN. He died ca. 1931 and is buried in Rock Lake Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
"His father died soon after his birth. (He and his elder brother, Ellery, constituted this family.) His mother married Dr. David Cloud. Two daughters, Luella and Josephine. After Dr. Cloud's death the family moved to Minneapolis in 1869." (Aunt Lydia notes) MARRIAGE - "At home of bride's father, Dorr A. Neff in town of Levis Aug. 17 - Addie Olivia Neff to Cortland C. Holliday of Minneapolis. She had been a teacher and a county superintendent. Marriage performed by Rev. T. C. Hill of Lake Mills, WI. Had resided in Cal. 13 years. Surviving is her sister, Angie Neff of Pasadena."
"Followed about the same experiences as her sister Addie, until her graduation at the River Falls Normal School, June 1885. She taught a fall term of school in Milwaukee then moved to Boston where she was a bookkeeper in E. M. Rice's store in Chelsie, MA until the spring of 1889 when she moved to Duluth, lived there as a Librarian of the Public Library until June, 1899, then spent the time near her father's home in Wisconsin until December 1903, when she moved to Pasadena, CA." (Aunt Lydia notes)
OBITUARY - "Angie Neff of Hennette St. d. at a Los Angeles hospital Aug 8, 1944. A native of Lake Mills, WI had resided in Pasadena 41 years. survived by her foster brother, Harry A. Neff, Pasadena & 3 nieces, Mrs. W. A. Proctor, Santa Ana; Miss Gladys Neff, Oakland, Mrs. Hugh M. Campbell, Cincinnatti OH, & one nephew, Charles W. Neff, Neillville, WI"
"After her mother's death she was housekeeper in her father's home until after his death, then made her home in the City of Cambridge, near the old home. Early in the year 1927 she suffered a partial stroke and a second stroke caused her death on April 5, 1927." (Aunt Lydia notes)
MARRIAGE NOTICE - "Married. NEFF - GREEN. At the residence of the bride's father, in Oakland, on the 14th inst., by Rev. J. R. Pope, Mr. Frank G. Neff of Lake Mills and Miss Lizzie Green, of Oakland." and "Oakland. Mr. Frank Neff and Miss Lizzie Green emigrated to the state of matrimony on Thursday of last week. Joy, peace, happiness, success and all good wishes attend them." (22 Jul 1881 Jefferson County Union v. 12, no. 20)
OBITUARY - "Fort Atkinsens - Frank G. Neff, 70 d. suddenly at home. 421 N. Main St. born in Lake Mills, WI Mar 2, 1856 and came to Fort Atkinson 6 years ago. Married Lizzie E. Green of Oakland Twp. 40 years ago. Surviving are brother Edward, Cambridge; & two sisters, Miss Maggie Neff, Cambridge; & Mrs. W. A. Dodge, Milton Junction."
RECORD OF MARRIAGE-"Mr. Edward Neff, son of Eli Neff, and Miss Marcia Vicars, of Springfield, Wis., were married March 2, at the bride's home. They will make their home on the Town Line road. The LEADER tenders hearty congratulations." (Lake Mills Leader 17 Mar 1887)
He married (2) Anna C. CAMPBELL, daughter of George CAMPBELL, on 29 Jun 1921. She was born on 27 Apr 1860. She died on 3 May 1939 and was buried in the Rock Lake Cemetery, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
OBITUARY: "Fall and Exposure Prove Fatal to Cambridge Man. E. U. Neff, 72, passed away at a Madison hospital Friday night. Mr. Neff fell from a ladder in his workshop Wednesday afternoon and broke a hip and ankle. He was unable to summon aid for some time and, due to exposure, pneumonia developed, causing his death. Besides his widow he leaves a sister, Mrs. Dodd of Milton Junction. Funeral services were held on Monday afternoon from the Prescott funeral home with interment at the Rock Lake cemetery, Lake Mills." (7 Jun 1935 Lake Mills Leader)
i. Harlow8 SAUNDERS. He was born on 30 May 1878 and died on 28 Apr 1882. 61 ii. Perry Oliver Humphrey8 SAUNDERS
62 i. Jennie8 MAXWELL 63 ii. Irene8 MAXWELL
53. Winslow T.8 STETSON (Laura Luvilla7 JACKSON, Caroline E.6 NEFF, Isaac5, Jacob4, Hans Jacob3, Hans Konrad2, Hans Marti1). He was born on 17 Oct 1868 in Oakland, Jefferson Co. WI. He died on 25 Feb 1927 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. He was a jeweler.
"Winslow Stetson attended the Fort Atkinson High School then spent some time at the University at Madison. He was a jeweler in the City of Lake Mills. He graduated from Watchmakers' School, La Port, IN, and located in Cambridge, WI, later in Lake Mills. After an illness of about a year he died Feb 25, 1927."(Aunt Lydia notes)
He married Etta HOYT, daughter of George HOYT & Frances CLEVELAND, on 20 Aug 1895. She was born on Jun 1901 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
MARRIAGE NOTICE: "Married. STETSON-HOYT.- At the home of the bride's mother in the village of Lake Mills, on Tuesday afternoon, at 3 p.m. by the Rev. Samuel McNeil, Mr. William T. Stetson, of Cambridge, and Miss Ella Hoyt, of Lake Mills. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. George Hoyt, of Lake Mills. She was reared in that village and has a host of friends and acquaintences whose best wishes are extended for her future happiness and prosperity. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Leander Stetson, of Oakland, where he has passed most of his life. For the past few years he has been engaged in the jewelry business in this village, and the cordial treatment of his customers has made him many friends who join with the News in congratulations and best wishes. Mr. and Mrs. Stetson contemplate a rather novel wedding trip. They are good cyclists and started with their wheels on a journey to Palmyra, Delevan, Lake Geneva, and many other points providing the weather is favorable. If they find this mode of travel not satisfactory, they will go to Milwaukee, thence to Chicago by boat, and from that city to La Porte, Ind. They will be at home in this village after Sept. 10th." (The Cambridge News 23 Aug 1895)
They had children.
54. Carrie B.8 STETSON (Laura Luvilla7 JACKSON, Caroline E.6 NEFF, Isaac5, Jacob4, Hans Jacob3, Hans Konrad2, Hans Marti1). She was born on 27 Sep 1872 in Oakland, Jefferson Co., WI. She died on 13 Dec 1967. She married Lewellyn Bruce TAYLOR on 28 Dec 1904 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI.
According to Aunt Lydia's notes she "attended the High School at Fort Atkenson four years, then attended Boston University two years. Married Bruce Taylor Dec 28, 1904 and lived on the farm known as Home Wood, near Lake Mills"
MARRIAGE NOTICE - "MARRIED. TAYLOR-STETSON-At Lake Mills, Wednesday December 28, 1904, Miss Carrie Adele Stetson to Mr. Lewellyn Bruce Taylor. The wedding was a very pretty one and took place at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L.L. Stetson, parents of the bride. At 5:30 o'clock the bridal pair took their places beneath a marriage bell which hung from a canopy of Xmas greens and holly. Rev. Benjamin Staunton, pastor of the Congregational church, performed the ceremony, using the ring service. The bride looked lovely in a beautiful gown of gray voile over gray silk, with a lace bertha. She carried roses. The dining roomwas prettily decorated in smilax and carnations and was lighted with candles. After congratulations, the bridal party partook of an elegant wedding supper of five courses. There were many beautiful gifts, from friends present and absent. The bride is a young lady of culture and refinement. After graduating from the Fort Atkinson High School, she completed her education in Boston. Her sweet winning ways have endeared her to a large circle of friends who sincerely hope that she and her husband may enjoy the choicest blessings of life. The groom is the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor and a young man of exemplary habits, domestic in his tastes, and a successful farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor will be at home after January 12th in their beautiful new home three miles west of Lake Mills on the parental homestead." (Jefferson County Union 6 Jan 1905 v. 35 n. 48)
Carrie B. STETSON and Lewellyn Bruce TAYLOR had children.
"She attended the Neillsville [Neillsville] High School, then two years at the Oskosh State Normal School. After her mother's death she kept house for her father on the farm in the town of Levis until her marriage to Walter A. Proctor, Dec 10, 1907. They lived in Cleveland, OH 1908 to 1912. They moved to Portland, Oregon in 1912. They moved to Santa Ana, Orange Co., CA Sep 1922"(Aunt Lydia notes)
She married Walter A. PROCTOR, son of William PROCTOR & Angelina, on 10 Dec 1907. He was born on 12 Jun 1874 in Fall River, WI.
"He attended district and High School and later two years at St. John's Military Academy at Delefield, WI. He served eighteen months in the Spanish American War, much of the time in the Philipines. He spoke the Spanish language, so served as an interpreter."(Aunt Lydia notes)
They had children.
"Studied two years in the Neillsville [Neillsville] High School, taught country school, then studied at McCalester College, St. Paul, Minn. for two years-mainly piano. From 1908 to 1918 was housekeeper on her father's farm in the town of Levis, Clark Co. WI. The fall of 1918 she went to Portland, OR to study nursing for three years. In 1922 she left Portland to go to Anaheim, CA, where she practiced the profession of nursing" (Aunt Lydia notes)
"Attended Neillsville [Neillsville] High School four years. In 1918 purchased his father's farm." (Aunt Lydia notes)
He married Elvira HEMP of Neillsville, WI, on 11 Oct 1917. They had children.
"Attended the Neillsville [Neillsville] High School for four years. After marriage, they went immediately to a timber claim in the state of Oregon, where they stayed until October 1809. In the fall of 1809 they went to Madison, WI, where Hugh continued his University course. In the fall of 1891 they moved to Boston where Hugh spent two years at the Boston Tech, studying Chemistry, graduating in June 1893. One year spent in Manchester, NH in connection with the manufacture of shoes, as a chemist. In 1894 they moved to Cincinnati and for a time was in the employ of the Government as a chemist, testing the water supply, later as a chemist in the employ of the Cincinnatti Chemical Co." [Aunt Lydia notes]
She married Hugh M. CAMPBELL, son of Robert CAMPBELL & Annie, 17 Jun 1908. They had children.
If you recognize any of the names here and would like to contact me, here's my email address: david.rudge@wmich.edu.
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Last updated on 14 May 2012