\osborne\biograph\newbio2  9/7/2002

Bio. of Nicholas Osborn-1572


        History of Kansas (Osage Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago, 1883.
        Page 1558.  (transcript)
        [See the bio. of John A. Osborne-1571]
        [See the bio. of James H. Osborne-1575]

   NICHOLAS OSBORN, farmer, P.O. Carbondale, reside on Section 3, Twp 14,
Range 16, and also owns 160 acres on Section 10;  has about ninety acres
under cultivation;  has about twenty head of cattle and other stock;
located in KS in 1860;  was born in Hendrick Co., IN, June 10, 1837; is the
son of Harden Osborne<sic> and Priscilla Tincher.  Enlisted in the army in
Aug., 1862, in Company C, Seventieth Indiana; was with his regiment at
Resaca, and in front of Atlanta; was wounded at Peach Tree Creek, from which
his left hand was paralyzed; rejoined his command at Goldboro, and from
thence to Raleigh, NC, and from thence to Washington, D.C. where he was
mustered out June 24, 1865.  He was married March 17, 1859, at Clayton, IN,
to Miss Elizabeth Kirkham, and has eight children -- Clara F., Albert
DeLake, Laura, Priscilla, Oscar, Gilbert, Wilber and Baby.  Mr. Osborne has
been extensively engaged in the manufacture of sorghum, now having one of
Cook's Evaporators.  He is also engaged in sprouting sweet potato plants by
artificial heat.


Bio. of Oscar M. Osbon


        History of Kansas (Pottawatomie Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago, 1883.
        Page 981.  (transcript)

   OSCAR M. OSBON, livery, Westmoreland, was born in Brown Co., OH, May 20,
1846.  At the age of six years he removed with his parents to Princeville,
Peoria Co., IL.  Oct. 12, 1862, he enlisted as a private in Battery A.,
Second Illinois Artillery, and served three years, seeing the close of the war
as a soldier.  He took part in seventeen battles, among them the fierce and
terrible struggles of Champion Hill, the siege of Vicksburg, and the capture
of Spanish Fort, Mobile.  After the war he came West, traveled about for two
years, and in the spring of 1868 settled on a homestead in Washington Co.  In
1877 started the Greenleaf Bugle.  He published it for a few months,
sold out, and went on the road as a traveling salesman for a wholesale boot
and shoe house in St. Joseph, MO.  After a year in the business he resumed
farming, in Washington Co., and in 1880 was elected a member of the KS House
of Representatives, from the One Hundred and Fourth District, comprising the
eastern half of Washington Co.  He served in the session of 1881, and was
Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, and was on the Committe on
Printing, and several other committees of less importance.  In 1882 he sold
his farm, remoed to Westmoreland, in Pottawatomie Co., and built a livery
stable.  He belongs to the G.A.R.  He was married at Washington, Aug., 1873,
to Miss Oral Reed.  They have three children -- Orman, Wilson M., and Kenneth.


Bio. of Oscar W. Osborn


        Historical Souvenir of El Dorado County, California,
        Paolo Saoli Publisher, Oakland, CA, 1883.  Page 259.  (transcript)

OSCAR W. OSBORN
Was born in Arcadia, Wayne county, New York, July 18, 1834.  Father was Oscar
and Eliza (nee Waterman) Osborn, his mother who emigrated with parents from
Mass. and Conn., to New York, where they were married and Oscar is the only
son and child.  Worked on a farm in his native State, attending school in
winter, etc.  On April 2, 1852 took sail at New York via Cape Horn for
California, had a pleasant six month's trip and put in to Valparaiso and Rio
Janeiro.  There was a party of five started from New York, when they arrived
in California it was the dry season and mining was at a low ebb, turned their
attention to whatever was to do.  The first mining he done was in Secret
ravine, now Newcastle, paid $6 per day for water, poison oak drove him out.
Thence went to Yankee Hill, Butte county, where he was identified with many
of the enterprises, such as ditch building, etc.  Erected a large hotel at
Yankee Hill, then bought into a mine at Magalia.
   In 1860 was taken with chronic illness and for about three years spent in
traveling over California, in company with two or three others of the Western
hotel in Sacramento.  In 1862 spent some time in Virgina city, Nevada, Dayton
and Carson.  Returned from there to Brown's valley, Yuba county, and remained
there until coming to El Dorado county, minded first at Uniontown;  he was
successful and decided to quit and settle for a permanent stay.  His mine
then was the Mt. Pleasant mine.  In 1880, he in company with J.T. Blundell,
purchased from E.M. Smith, the Pioneer Nursery, the oldest place in Coloma,
and established by Weimer who was with Marshall at the time gold was found.
Peaches and plums are their specialties, about 800 peach trees, 200 plums.
They ship to Sacramento and San Francisco, get the highest prices for them;
the peaches they raise are of superior kinds, and have taken the premium at
Mechanic's Institute, in San Francisco.  Grow fancy grapes of about 1,000
vines, but will soon drop their cherries, figs, persimmons.  The location is
a beautiful one, for all kinds of fruit.  The ranch is capable of producing
about 1,500 boxes of peaches.  The year 1876 netted over 2,000, turn out
about 225 boxes of Bartlett pears.  Everything that can be has been done to
grow the best of fruit.  The property cost $3,300 in coin, and now is
estimated at $4,000.  He is a Republican and earnest supporter of its
principles, could have been in the Legislature, has been Justice of the
Peace in Coloma township.  Is a I.O.O.F. Coloma Lodge, No. 27, is of sterling
integrity, and has reputation of being so.  Is temperate in all things in
living and all other habits.


Bio. of R.M. Osburn


        History of the State of California and Biographical Record of the
        San Joaquin Valley, California, The Chapman Publishing Co.,
        Chicago, 1905.  Page 797.  (transcript)

   R.M. OSBURN.  The dairy industry, which has proved of incalculable benefit
in the development of Stanislaus county, owes its inception and progress
to a number of public-spirited men, among whom mention belongs to Mr.
Osburn, residing one-half mile from Newman on the west side. When he came
to this locality, in 1886, he bought forty acres of wild land under the
ditch, and here he has built a residence, set out fruit trees and placed
the land under excellent cultivation. Finding that hay could be raised
profitably, he has gradually put all of the land in alfalfa. and since
1891 has made a specialty of the hay and dairying business. The dairy
industry has proved a source of gratifying profit in Stanislaus county,
and on his homestead may be seen one hundred head of high-grade Shorthorn
Durhams, thirty of which are milch cows. The demands of his dairy
interests were such that he found it advisable to purchase a tract of
thirty acres adjoining his original purchase. and this gives him a total
of seventy acres, which at its nearest point is one-eighth of a mile from
Newman.
   In Ontario, between St. Thomas and London, Mr. Osburn was born
October 31, 1857, being a son of Hugh and Rebecca (McCully) Osburn, the
former a native of Scotland, and the latter born near Dublin, Ireland.
Upon starting out to earn his livelihood. Hugh Osburn left his old home
and crossed the ocean to Ontario, where he settled on a farm. In 1865 he
came across the plains to California and tried his luck at mining on the
Frazier river and other localities, returning east via Panama and
resuming farm work in Ontario. About 1881 he came to California a second
time, but instead of seeking the regions familiar to him during mining
days he established himself upon a farm in San Benito county. His last
days were passed in Ontario, where his death occurred. In religion he
was of the Presbyterian faith. His wife, who was the daughter of Robert
McCully, a lifelong resident of Ireland, accompanied him to California,
and died in Gliroy. Of their twelve children eleven came to California,
and nine still survive, R. M. being fourth in order of birth. When a
little less than eighteen, in 1875, he came to California and secured
employment as a farmer near Salinas, Monterey county. Subsequently for
many years he was employed by Henry Miller in Santa Clara county, and
from there removed to San Benito county where he embarked in stock
raising and grain farming. With four other parties he rented Quien Sabe
ranch, of twenty-four thousand acres, and during the ten years, beginning
in 1881, that they retained the property, they paid an aggregate rental
of $150,000. Before giving up his interest in that ranch he came to
Stanislaus county, and in 1891 sold his ranching outfit in order to
devote himself to enterprises in his present location.
   When a movement was inaugurated for the establishment of a creamery
Mr. Osburn was quick to see the advantages to be derived from such an
industry, and gave it his enthusiastic support, becoming one of the
original stockholders in the New Era Creamery Company, which erected the
first of the creameries in the county. The name New Era did not prove a
misnomer, for the starting of the plant inaugurated a new era of
prosperity for the people. and made the dairy industry profitable.  Not
a little of the recent growth and development of the county is due to
the dairy interests and enterprises, whose existence and success are
dependent upon the operation of creameries. In politics Mr. Osburn is a
believer in Republican principles. Since coming to the coast country he
has been a student of the Spanish language, in which he has acquired
such fluency that his services are often brought into requisition as an
interpreter. He was married in San Jose, this state, his wife being Miss
Annie Dunn, like himself a native of Ontario. Their children are Elmer,
Robert, Ruth and Raymond.


Bio. of Raymond Newton Osborn


        History of the Harbor District of Los Angeles, Historic Record
        Co., California.  Page 892.  (transcript)

RAYMOND NEWTON OSBORN
   A worthy citizen, one who served his country well during the World war is
Raymond Newton Osborn, a loyal resident of Wilmington. He is a native of the
old Sunflower state, which has produced so many sterling characters, being born
in Stockton, Kansas, August 9, 1893, a son of Samuel J. and Maggie (Estep)
Osborn, who were farming people and pioneer residents of that state.
   After receiving a high school education Mr. Osborn assisted his father on
the farm and was so employed until 1916, when he joined the United States Navy
as fireman of the third class. Then followed the period of the World war,
during which he was in active service overseas, receiving his discharge in San
Pedro in 1922 as chief machinist’s mate. He then located in Wilmington, where
he has since made his home. His first employment was with the Union Oil Company
as a pipefitter and he was so connected until August, 1924, when he assumed the
duties of his present position with the Shell Oil Company as shift foreman,
engaged in loading and discharging oil at the Wilmington docks.
   Mr. Osborn was married in Stockton, Kansas, in 1920, to Florence Minnie
Luse, a daughter of Burt and Stella Luse, and they are the parents of one
child, Vera Wanda, who was born in Wilmington.
   Mr. Osborn is a democrat in politics and a member of the Presbyterian
church.  He is also an active member of the American Legion Post, No. 287, in
Wilmington.  He is fond of touring and camping and is the owner of a nice home
at 1131 Island street, in Wilmington, which city he considers an ideal place in
which to live.


Bio. of Riley Osborn-2642


        History of Kansas (Sedgwick Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago, 1883.
        Page 1405.  (transcript)
        [See the bio. of Gilbert Osborn-2641]

   RILEY OSBORN, farmer, Sections 5 and 6, P.O. Marshall, was born in 1824, in
Casey Co., KY, his father, Elijah Osborn, having been a native of VA, and his
mother of the former State.  Mr. O. was engaged in farming in his native State,
and in 1861, removed to and located in Gentry Co., MO, and upon the breaking
out of the late war, entered the State Militia, in which he remained engaged
upon active duty for a period of six months, and was subsequently called out at
intervals until Oct., 1864, when he enlisted in Company I, Eighteenth Regiment
Missouri Volunteer Infantry, and after several months' active service, was
taken ill, and remained in hospital at Buford, SC, until March, 1865, when he
rejoined his regiment, remaining with it until mustered out in July, 1865, and
ordered to St. Louis, MO, for final discharge.  He returned to MO, where he
continued to reside;  engaged in farming until his removal to this State.  In
1845, Mr. Osborn married Miss S.J. Muse, of KY.  Their children are -- Mary E.
(who is married, and a resident of MO), James W. (married, and residing in this
twp), Sarah Jane, John M. (who is married, and a resident of Morton Twp),
Harriet Julia, (also married, and residing in Sherman Twp, where also resides
her married sister Martha Kansas), Stella May (married, and residing in Union
Twp), and Casswell R. and Dora Bell (who reside at home).  Mr. Osborn is one of
the first settlers of Garden Plain Twp.  His farm consists of 320 acres in this
twp, ninety acres of which are under cultivation, while he has also 160 acres
in Erie Twp, of which ninety-five acres are being cultivated, each farm
yielding an average of corn forty-five and wheat twent- bushels per acre while
his millet yield has been exceptionally large.  His orchard contains 500 peach
and 100 apple trees, and the entire farm bears evidence to the industry and
prosperity of its owner.  Mr. Osborn has been Director of the School Board of
his district, and is a member of Garfield Post, No. 25, G.A.R., located in
Wichita.


Bio. of Robert Osborn


        History of Kansas (Marshall Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago,
        1883.  Page 929.  (transcript)

   ROBERT OSBORN, farmer, P.O. Frankfort, was born in Franklin County, Ill.,
January 12, 1822.  Moved to Knox County, Ill., and remained until 1866, when
he moved to Marshall County, Kan., where he has remained ever since, and is
engaged in farming and stock raising.  Has a farm of 320 acres.  Mr. Osborn
assessed the east half of Marshall County in 1868, and served as County
Commissioner in years 1870 and 1872.  Is a member of the Masonic Order.
Married in Knox Co., Ill., in September, 1843, to Betsey Roundtree; they
have eight children.


Bio. of Robert Dudley Osburn-1611


        Historical and Biographical Record of Southern California,
        Chapman Publishing Co., Chicago, 1902.  Page 553.  (transcript)
        [See the bio. of Franklin Osburn-1601]

ROBERT DUDLEY OSBURN.
   Connected both with the horticultural and the real estate interests of
Riverside, Mr. Osburn is accounted one of its leading citizens and foremost
in movements looking toward its progress and development.  A resident of
Riverside since 1890, during that year he bought an orange grove at No. 114
Bandini avenue and erected a substantial residence in which he has since made
his home.  In addition to the management of the grove, w hich is exclusively
in navel oranges, he has since 1898 been engaged in the real estate business,
as a member of the firm of Bettner & Osburn, with office at No. 666 Seventh
street, opposite Glenwood Tavern.
   The Osburn family traces its lineage to the F. F. V's, having in colonial
days come from England and settled in Loudoun county, Va.  Franklin Osburn,
father of Robert D., and son of John Osburn, was born on a plantation in the
Old Dominion, and for some years during early life was himself a planter, but,
after going to Pittsburg, Pa., he embarked in the wholesale lumber business
and also acquired a large interest in a banking business in that city, being
for years vice-president and a director of the Second National Bank, one of
the most solid financial institutions of Pittsburg.  At this writing he still
makes his home there, but is no longer active in business affairs, enjoying
instead that otium cum dignitate which is the reward of a lifetime of earnest
application.  In political views he is a Democrat.  When a young man he
married Henrietta Warner, who was born in Allegheny, Pa., and is still
living.  Her father, Judge G. E. Warner, was a descendant of the old
Connecticut families of Warner, Elliott and Griswold, and became a pioneer of
Pittsburg, where he was one of the early judges of that district.  For years
he successfully conducted a wholesale lumber business.  Upon the organization
of the Second National Bank of Pittsburg he was chosen president of the
institution and retained the position until his death.
   In the family of Franklin Osburn there are eight children now living,
five being sons, viz.: J.W. and H.G., both horticulturists in California,
the former making his home at Orange, and the latter in Los Gatos; Frank C.,
a prominent attorney of Pittsburg; W.W., who is engaged in business at
Baltimore, Md.; and Robert D., who was the sixth in order of birth.  He was
born in Pittsburg. Pa., April 30, 1867, and received the rudiments of his
education in a private school of his native city, after which he prepared
for Princeton at Sewickly Academy, later spending one year as a student in
Lafayette College at Easton, Pa.  The year 1886 he spent principally at
Orange. Cal., and on his return east in 1887 he entered Princeton University,
from which he was graduated in the spring of 1900.  During his student days
at Lafayette College he was prominently identified with the Phi Kappa Psi,
and he is a charter member of the Princeton Club of New York City.
   At Cape May, N.J., in 1890, Mr. Osburn married Miss Bertha C. Howell,
who was born in Philadelphia and received her education in the Sacred Heart
convent in that city.  Her great-great-grandfather, Henry Pratt, was for
years an importer and owner of vessels conducting a large business in
Philadelphia.  He was the owner of Lemon Hill mansion, in Fairmount Park,
where he entertained George Washington on several occasions.  The only child
of Mr. and Mrs. Osburn is Virginia Wyllys.
   Various social organizations of Riverside number Mr. Osburn among their
members.  He assisted in the organization of the Country Club, of which at
one time he was the president.  In the organization of the Pachappa Club he
was all active factor, and at present serves upon the board of directors.
The largest tennis club in California, which is the Casa Blanca Tennis Club
of Riverside, has attained its prominence largely through his efforts.  He
assisted in its incorporation, was for three years its secretary and tresurer,
and also efficiently filled the office of president.  For two years he acted
as golf captain of the Riverside Polo and Golf Club.  He helped to organize
the Southern California Golf Association and is still a director in the same.


Bio. of Robert F. Osborn


        The Bay of San Francisco -- A History, The Lewis Publishing
        Co., Chicago, 1892.  Page 676.  (transcript)

ROBERT F. OSBORN, one of San Francisco's respected business men and founder
of the hardware business of R.F. Osborn & Company, is a native of New York
city, and dates his birth October 28, 1839.  His forefathers came from England
to America during colonial days and were participants in the Revolutionary war,
His grandfather, Elnathan Osborn, and his father, Homer B. Osborn, were both
natives of New York.  His father, a merchant of that city, married Sarah
Folger, also a native of New York.  She was of Quaker ancestry and a relative
of Benjamin Franklin.  Robert F. was the second born in their family of eight
children, all of whom are still living.  He received excellent educational
advantages and is a graduate of the Wesleyan University of Middletown,
Connecticut.
   Mr. Osborn's father had come to this coast in 1850, and in 1856, at the
age of seventeen, his son followed him.  Before he was twenty years old he
was employed as cashier of a business firm of Sacramento, and as soon as he
had accumulated money enough from his salary he caine to San Francisco.  In
1864 he started his present hardware business, which he has conducted
successfully for the past twenty-eight years, his establishment being both
wholesale and retail.  Some of his surplus funds he has invested in city
property and in lands in Colusa and Santa Clara counties.  He has interested
himself in and been connected with several of the financial enterprises of
the city; is a director and vice-president of the Union Iron Association, the
oldest and most prosperous in the city.  He is a member of the Masonic
fraternity, and in politics has been a Republican since the organization of
that party.
   Mr. Osborn married Miss Alvina Anthony, a native of New York city, and to
them have been born a son and three daughters, all in California.  The son,
Frederick, is engaged in business with his father, and is represented in the
firm name by the "& Co."  They have a fine residence in San Francisco and
also one in Santa Clara, where they reside, alternating from one to the other
in winter and summer.


Bio. of Robert M. Osburn


        Memorial and Biographical History of the Counties of Fresno,
        Tulare, and Kern, California, The Lewis Publishing Co.,
        Chicago, 1891.  Page 816.  (transcript)

   DR. ROBERT M. OSBURN is a native of Pennsylvania, born in the year 1854.
His father, now deceased, was for many years a successful druggist, and in
this line of work Robert M. laid the foundation for future study.  After a
public school "drilling" at his home he entered the University of Pennsylvania
at Philadelphia, graduating from the medical department of this famous
institution in the year 1879. Two years prior to this course of study our
subject had taken an extensive trip west, visiting Oregon, Idaho, Nevada,
and making a hurried tour of this region in search of health and also for
pleasure. He returned to this locality again after his medical studies in
Philadelphia and settled in Portland, Oregon, in the active practice of his
profession.  Five months later he entered the University of Willamette, and
received a diploma from that medical institution.  He then came to California
and was employed in the hospitals in San Francisco for a period of eight
months, afterward coming to the San Joaquin valley and settling in Kingsburg,
Fresno County, in which locality he practiced medicine for seven years.  At
the end of this period the Doctor returned East and attended a course of
post graduate lectures in New York city. There were many distinguished
physicians who at various times delivered these lectures, one of whom is
in the mind of every student who was fortunate enough to be in attendance.
The physician referred to was Dr. Skeene, one of the ablest men in the
profession and a general favorite in the school.
   Our subject also took a short course of study in the Brooklyn Medical
College, and then visited his old home in Meadville, Pennsylvania.  Making
a brief sojourn here, he came next to California, and settled among his old
patients again in Kingsburg.  In November, 1888, we find him a resident of
Selma, in which place he has ever since made his home.
   A recent appointment from the naval department at Washington, wherein
our subject is despatched as assistant surgeon at the naval department at
Mare's Island, San Francisco, will result in the Doctor's leaving Selma,
January 1, 1891, and making his temporary home at least in that locality.
   He was married December 20, 1882, to Miss Van Tassel, a native of
Kingsburg. There are no children.


Bio. of S.D. Osborn


        History of Kansas (Cherokee Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago,
        1883.  Page 1171.  (transcript)

   S.D. OSBORN, Postmaster and general merchandise, Varck, was born in
Hendricks Co., IN, in 1856, and located here in 1872, and engaged in farming
and stockraising, with which he has been actively identified since.  In May 1,
1881, he engaged at his mercantile business, and has successfully carried it on
since.  In Sep., 1880, he married Miss Jennie Carr, who was born in OH, in
1857.  They have one little boy -- Orval.  The farm contains eighty acres of
improved land, a nice orchard of fifteen acres of a nicely assorted variety of
apple, peach, pear trees, etc., good buildings and stables.  He is an active
member of the Church of Friends.


Stephen Osburn-1643 Family Bible


        Contributed by and posted with permission of the owner,
        Nancy Jones.

The cover is missing and there is no publication date or
title page.

Page 1
  Stephen Osburn was born May the 14th 1801
  Charlotte Osburn was born June the 1st 1811
  They was married December the 25th 1828

  Elener Osburn was born May the 10th 1830
  Philip Osburn was born May the 22d 1831
  George W. Osburn was born May the 11th 1832
  Nancy Osburn was born July the 19th 1834

Page 2
  Cymms B. Osburn was born Oct the 10th 1836
  Philip S. Osburn was born Sept the 9th 1838

Page 3
  <Note: Entries from the first page are copied here,>
  <      Charlotte's birthdate with an apparent error.>
  Stephen Osburn was born May the 14th 1801
  Charlotte Osburn was born June the 11th 1811
      <Note: Charlotte's entry is different than that on Page 1>
  Elener Osburn was born May the 10th 1830
  Philip Osburn was born May the 22 1831
  George W. Osburn was born May the 11 1832
  Nancy Osburn was born July the 19th 1834

Page 4
  Cymms B. Osburn was born October the 10th 1836
  Philip S. Osburn was born September the 9 1838
  Mary Jane Osburn was born August the 19th 1840
  Elizabeth Osburn was born Febuary the 11th 1842
  Andrew J. Osburn was born March the 31 1844

Page 5
  Charlotte Osburn was born March the 31st 1846
  Silas Osburn was born January the 22 1849
  Stephen Osburn was born October the 10th 1851
  Carrie S. Ogg was born Nov 16th 1804  <Note: a cousin>

Page 6
  Stephen Osburn was born October the 10 1851
  Purthena Osburn was born Janary the 18 1857
  They was maried Jun the 14 1874

  Harvey Lee Osburn was born April 20 1901
  Mayme Osburn was born March 14 1899 <1902 is crossed out>
  They were married August 18 - 1923

Page 7
  Lisay Osburn was born July the 12 1875
  Saly Osburn was born August the 25 1876
  Simm B. Osburn March the 18 1878

  (Stephen + Purthena's children)
  Addie C. Osburn was born March 6 - 1880
  Riley N. Osburn was born April 27 - 1881
  Belle Osburn was born Mar 5 - 1883
  Fred W. Osburn was born July 2 - 1886
  Nannie Osburn was born April 30 - 1888
  Cora A. Osburn was born Feb 17 - 1891 <1892 is crossed out>
  Charley was born Oct-6-1893 <1894 is crossed out>
  Curtis Osburn was born April-21-1895
  Minnie Osburn was born Sept 23, 1897
  Harvie Lee Osburn was born April-20-1901

Page 8
  <Note: The marriage entries below do not include the spouse>
  G.W. Osburn was Married August 4th 1854
  Nancy J. Osburn was Married Feby 4th 1854
  Mary P. Osburn was Married September 4th 1861
  Andrew Osburn was Married Oct the 2_ 1869
  Charlotte Osburn was Married Apr 30, 1867
  Simms B. Osburn was Married June 11 18 ?
  Charlotte  August
  Belle was Married Dec 24 1902

Page 9
  Sim B. Osburn was Married Dec 9 1903
                and again Sept 7 1923


Bio. of Stephen J. Osborn


   Kansas, pt. II, Standard Publishing Co., Chicago, 1912.  Page 873.
   (transcript)
   [See the bio. of Roy T. Osborn]

   Stephen J. Osborn of Coffeyville, an old prominent member of the Kansas
bar, has taken an active part in the public affairs of his adopted state,
having served several terms in the state legislature where he was honored
with the position of speaker of the house and having been for a number of
years judge of the Twenty-third judicial district, besides serving in other
positions of responsibility and trust.  Judge Osborn was born in Preble
county, Ohio, near the city of Eaton, Nov. 22, 1846.  His parents, Samuel
and Rachel (Elliott) Osborn, natives respectively of Virginia and North
Carolina, were married in Ohio, to which state Samuel Osborn had gone when a
young man and where he operated a woolen mill.  He was similarly engaged at
Mount Pleasant, Iowa, to which state he removed his family in the spring of
1848, but after his wife's death at Mount Pleasant he went to Mills county,
Iowa, where he engaged in farming until a few years prior to his death,
which occurred at the home of his son, Stephen J.  The parents had two sons
and one daughter, of whom Stephen J. is the only survivor.
   Mr. Osborn was reared principally in Iowa and received a common school
education which was supplemented by a two-years course in Iowa Wesleyan
University, Mount Pleasant, Iowa, after which he went to Atchison county,
Missouri, where he taught school and studied law until his admission to the
bar in 1872.  He was elected prosecuting attorney of Atchison county in the
fall of 1876, and at the expiration of his term of office in the spring of
1879, he came to Ness county Kansas, where he witnessed the building of the
first house in Ness City.  In the fall of that year he went to Wakeeney,
Trego county, Kansas, where he engaged in the practice of law.  He was
elected county attorney of that county in 1880, and served one term of two
years.  In 1884 he was elected as a Republican to the state legislature in
which he served during the regular session in 1885 and the special session
of 1886, and at the close of the latter session, was appointed judge of the
Twenty-third judicial district by Gov. John A. Martin to which position he
was twice reelected, serving in all nine years and retiring in January,
1895.  He then located at Salina, Kan., where he became a partner of T.L.
Bond in the practice of law and was thus engaged until 1898 when he was
elected to represent Saline county in the state legislature, taking his seat
in 1899, being elected speaker.  He remained at Salina until 1902 when he
moved to Coffeyville, where he formed a law partnership with H.C. Dooly,
which partnership continued until the latter's death when Judge Osborn took
as a partner his son, Roy Osborn.  In 1909 John H. Keith became associated
with him in the practice of law.  Judge Osborn's success in life has been
attained through his own individual efforts and is the reward of years of
upright dealings with his fellow men and by his straight forward course in
the performance of whatever duty at hand.  He has won a business success and
an honorable name and deserves to be numbered among the most respected and
worthy citizens of Kansas.  He has always given his political allegiance to
the Republican party.  Fraternally he is a Knight Templar Mason, a Noble of
the Mystic Shrine and a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks.  In April, 1864, when seventeen years of age, Judge Osborn enlisted in
Company A, Forty-fifth Iowa infantry, with which he served five months,
being discharged in October, 1864 by reason of the expiration of his term of
enlistment.  He commemorates his war associations with his old comrades by
membership in the Grand Army of the Republic.
   In 1874, in Atchison county, Missouri, occurred the marriage of Judge
Stephen J. Osborn, and Miss Belle McCreary, a native of Morrow county, Ohio.
To their union have been born three children: Roy T., probate judge of
Montgomery county; Grace, assistant state librarian of the Kansas State
Library; and Nellie, a domestic science teacher.


Thomas Osborn-883 Family Record


        Records of the Families of California Pioneers, Vol. XII,
        about 1929.

Thomas Osborn
    b. 1/1/1824 Fairfield, Franklin Co., IN
    d. 4/6/1904 Madera, CA
    bur. Visalia, CA
    Some biographical information on Thomas Osborn is given in
    California Pioneers, but was not transcribed.
    father: Daniel Osborn
              b. 12/23/1791 near Cleveland, OH (Western Reserve)
              d. 6/24/1853, WI
              bur. Lodi, WI
    marr. 1/14/1813 OH
    mother: Rebecca French
              b. 7/15/1796 OH
              d. 12/29/1879 Veedersburg, IN
              bur. Cold Spring Cem. near Veedersburg, IN
            Rebecca French's parents were Benjamin and Deborah French.
            They had children Sarah, Rachel, Cassie, Joanna, Elizabeth,
            Rebecca, John, William, and James.

marr. 10/20/1846 Covington, IN

Margaret Harbaugh
    b. 8/1/1819 Somerset, PA
    d. 5/14/1900 Visalia, CA
    bur. Visalia, CA
    father: David Harbaugh
              b. 2/19/1786 near Philadelphia, PA
              d. 5/1/1860 IN
              bur. Nave Cem. near Attica, IN
        marr. 12/13/1807 Somerset, PA
    mother: Margaret Capp
              b. 8/6/1786 near Philadelphia, PA
              d. 8/19/1873 Salem, OH
              bur. Salem, OH (Clayton P.O.)
    brothers and sisters and information on grandparents recorded
    in California Pioneers, but were not transcribed here.

Children:

1) Alice Havannah Osborn
     b. 10/4/1847 IN
     d. 4/17/1917
     bur. Attica, IN
     marr. 4/1/1869 Isaac Waldrip, d. 7//1921
        family recorded in California Pioneers, but not
        transcribed here

2) Joel Spinning Osborn
     b. 9/25/1849 Dane Co., WI
     d. 7/3/1925 Madera, CA
     bur. Madera, CA
     marr. 4/2/1872 Sarah Moore
        see family below

3) Oliver David Osborn
     b. 2/2/1852 Dane Co., WI
     d. 5/2/1923 Los Angeles
     ashes bur. Visalia, CA
     m1. 3/31/1872 IN to Melissa Claypool
     m2. 4//1879 Keturah Redden
        see families below

4) Eve Bowman Osborn
     b. 2/17/1854 Dane Co., WI
     d. 8/8/1919
     bur. Sunnyside Cem., Long Beach, CA
     marr. 2/23/1872 Danville, IL to Wm. C. Duncan
                                        d. 9/27/1899 and bur. there
     She moved to CA in 1906 to live with sister Dr. Elizabeth Osborn
     in Long Beach, CA.
        Family recorded in California Pioneers, but not
        transcribed here.

5) Elizabeth Rhinearson Osborn
     b. 2/10/1856 Dane Co., WI
     alive on 10/31/1929, living in Long Beach, CA

6) Daniel Osborn
     b. 7/9/1858 IN
     alive on 10/31/1929, railroad employee
     m1. 1882 IN to Uree Houts, div. 1889
     m2. 1916 Mrs. Adeline Sawyer of Oakland (CA?) who died there 6/20/1929.

7) Mary M. Osborn
     b. 12/7/1860 IN
     alive on 10/31/1929;  a teacher, lives in Long Beach with sister
                           Elizabeth

8) Thomas William Butler Osborn
     b. 11/5/1863 IN
     marr. 5//1893 Laura Gill, b. 2/9/1873
     alive on 10/31/1929, living in Long Beach
        see family below

--------------------

Joel Spinning Osborn
  m. 4/2/1872
Sarah M. Moore, b. 9/5/1850 Coschocton Co., OH
                d. 11/20/1925 Madera, CA
                bur. Madera, CA
Children:
1) Ada Osborn, b. 6/24/1875, d. 3/12/1922, bur. Madera
     Teacher in Oakland, CA schools
2) Winnie Osborn, b. 1/14/1878, d. 1/1/1883, bur. Visalia
3) Clarence Osborn, b. 5/24/1880, alive 10/31/1929, living in Gonzales, CA
     marr. 11//1902 Leta Jordan, see below for family
4) Ralph Osborn, b. 12//1885, d. as infant, bur. Visalia, CA
5) Lynn Osborn, d. 12/28/1897, age 11, bur. Visalia, CA
6) Hazel Osborn, b. 7/3/1893 near Madera, CA
        marr. 1926 Geo. H. Taylor

-------------------

Oliver David Osborn
  m. 5/2/1923 Los Angeles
Melissa Claypool, b. 9/18/1853
                  d. 2/25/1877
                  bur. Visalia, CA
Children:
1) Frank Osborn, alive 10/29/1929, living in Fallon, NV
2) Mark Osborn, died as infant 4//1876

  m2. 4//1879
Keturah Redden
Children:
1) Thomas D. Osborn
     marr. 1904 Los Angeles to Chloe Shaffer
     Child: Meredith Osborn marr. Margie Kincaid in 1926 and lives
              in Glendale, CA

-------------------

Thomas William Butler Osborn
  m. 5//1893
Laura Gill, b. 2/9/1873
Children:
1) Fred Osborn, m. 9/9/1915 Irene Guthrie, no children
2) Myrtle Osborn, m. 9//1916 John Schilling of Hynes, CA
        Child: Catherine Schilling, b. ca1923
3) Howard Osborn, d. as infant, bur. Newman, CA
4) Robert Osborn, d. as infant, bur. Porterville, CA

-------------------

Clarence Osborn
  m. 11/1902
Leta Jordan
Children:
1) Shirley Osborn
2) Theodore C. Osborn, living in Santa Ana, CA
     m. Irene Huntoon, child: Barbara Jean Osborn
3) Lester Osborn
4) Donald Osborn

-------------------

Daniel Osborn
     father: Cyrus Osborn
     mother: Esther Baldwin
  m.
Rebecca French
Children:
Thomas, William, Hannah, Esther, Oliver, Elizabeth, Deborah, Eliza,
Mary, Sarah, Joanna, and 3 infant children of unknown names

-------------------

Cyrus Osborn, b. CT
  m. NJ
Esther Baldwin
      d. at her son Daniel's in Fountain Co., IN
      bur. Osborn Prairie Church, Fountain Co., IN
      she marr2. Mr. Fitsworth
moved to the Western Reserve
Children:
Daniel; Oliver, lived and died in Osborns Prairie, IN; William;
Joseph; David, lived and died in Dayton, OH; Hannah who marr. William
Spinning in OH.

-------------------

Information from Miss Mary M. Osborn, 269 Kennebec Ave., Long Beach,
CA, dated 10/31/1929.  She was in possesion of the family Bible of
Thomas Osborn.  This apparently is the daughter Mary M. of Thomas Osborn.


Bio. of W.F. Osborn


   History of Kansas (Greenwood Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago,
   1883.  Page 1214.  (transcript)
   [See the bio. of George H. Osborne]

   HON. W.F. OSBORN, farmer, Section 8, Lane Twp, P.O. Virgil, was born in 1827
in Davis Co., IN, and in 1842 removed to Buchanan Co., MO, where he remained
engaged in farming until his removal to KS in 1847, locating upon his present
farm May 9, in the above year.  He experienced all the vicissitudes of the
early settler in this State at that period, and during the first years of his
residence here, and until after the was was a member of the State Militia.  He
is now the oldest settler in Lane Twp.  In 1869, he was elected Representative
to the State Legislature, continuing in office until 1871, and again filling
the same office in 1880-81-82.  He was married in 1849, to Miss Mary Barns.
Of the children of this union three survive, viz.: George Henry, who was born
in 1852; Sarah F. (who is now Mrs. J.S. McCoin), born in 1854, and William R.,
born in 1860.  All the above now reside in Oregon.  Mrs. Osborn died in Nov.,
1860, and in 1862, Mr. Osborn married Miss Sarah F. Smith.  They have one child
living, Clara, who was born in Dec., 1864.  Mr. Osborn's farm contains 300
acres, of which 154 are under cultivation, and has always been exceptionally
productive.  In former years he dealt extensively in cattle and other live
stock.  The farm residence is a fine two-story building, with porch and
balcony, and is situated in the center of a spacious lawn, which is ornamented
with several fine evergreens and shade trees.  At a short distance in rear of
the house is the orchard, containing almost 600 assorted fruit trees.  Mr.
Osborn was one of the first Board of County Commissioners, and served as such
for six years.  He has always been a stanch Republican, and is one of the most
prominent men in the community.


Bio. of Welcome E. Osborn-9657


   Hist. of Harrison Co., MO, Historical Publishing Co.,
   Topeka-Indianapolis, 1921.  Page 453.  (transcript)

   Welcome E. Osborn, a successful farmer of Sherman Township, and proprietor
of Shady Home Farm, was born in Decatur County, Indiana, May 3, 1857, the son
of Joseph C. and Harriett (Hazen) Osborn.  The latter was a cousin of Judge
Hazen, of Topeka, Kansas.  Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Osborn located in Daviess
County, near Bancroft, in 1870, where they both died, and are buried at Pilot
Grove Baptist Church.  Joseph Osborn died at the age of eighty-seven years
and his wife when seventy years of age.
   Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Osborn were the parents of the following children:
Mrs. Caroline Henderson, of Gilman, Missouri;  Corra, of Gilman, Missouri;
J.W., of Redding, Iowa;  Mrs. Tamson T. Hendricks, of Billings, Oklahoma;
Welcome E., the subject of this sketch;  Cyrus, of Texas;  Mrs. Roletta
Patterson, of Gilman, Missouri;  Mrs. Mary Barngrove, of Gilman, Missouri;
John, of St. Joseph, Missouri;  Mrs. Lizzie Guinn, of Gilman;  Charles, of
Gilman.  Ira Osborn, the oldest child, died when thirteen years of age, and
Rosetta, a twin of Mrs. Patterson, died when three years old.
   Welcome E. Osborn was educated in the schools of Daviess County and lived
there until 1882, when he bought eighty acres in Sherman Township, where his
residence is now located.  He later added 180 acres, and recently sold forty
acres to his son, Paul V. Osborn.  The residence is six miles east of Bethany,
and is modern throughout.  All of the improvements were put on the farm by
Mr. Osborn, which cinsists<sic> of two barns and other good buildings, and
the water is piped from a pond to the west pasture and there are five
wills<sic>, including two on his son's place.
   Welcom Osborn was married December 19, 1880, to Sylvia A. Moulin, a
daughter of Peter and Isabell (Culp) Moulin, both early residents of Daviess
County, Missouri.  Mr. Moulin was in the Missouri State Militia during the
Civil War.  He died at the age of sixty-six years, his wife died when
eighty-four years old, and both are buried at Hill Cemetery in Daviess
County.
   Mr. and Mrs. Moulin were the parents of the following children: Anderson,
lives in Daviess County;  Louis, of Gilman, Missouri;  Mrs. Mary L. Dawson,
deceased;  Mrs. Martha J. Lierley, deceased;  Mrs. Osborn;  Mrs. Lura A.
Meek, of Blue Ridge, Missouri;  John F.;  Sylvester P.;  Charlie A., and
Emera L., the last four named live in Daviess Count<sic>, and their postoffice
is Gilman.
   Mr. and Mrs. Osborn had two children: Lura Roletta, who was born November
12, 1881, and died February 27, 1911; and Paul V., born November 7, 1892,
and lives on the home farm.  He married Alma J. Foster, a daughter of Green
Foster, of Bethany Township, and they have a daughter, Beula Lurola.  Lura
Loretta Osborn married George D. Gates, and they were the parents of a son,
Daniel G., who lives with his father in Daviess County, Missouri.
   Welcome E. Osborn is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and the
Woodmen of the World lodges.  Mr. and Mrs. Osborn are members of the
Missionary Baptist Church at Gilman, Missouri, also his son, Paul V., and
wife, as was his daughter, Lura Loretta.  The Osborn family have been
identified with the Baptist Church for five generations and Welcome E. Osborn
has always been active in church work.
   Mr. Osborn has turned the active management of the place over to his son,
Paul V., who carries on general farming and stock raising.  He raises
registered Durham cattle.


Bio. of William Osborn


        History of Kansas (Chase Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago, 1883.
        Page 1366.  (transcript)

   WILLIAM OSBORN, farmer, Section 2, Twp 19, Range 9, P.O. Toledo, was born in
Trumbull Co., OH, May 14 1834.  He resided upon a farm in his native county
until he came to KS in the spring of 1857, located on Buckeye Creek in Toledo
Twp.  Bought forty acres of partly improved land in 1866.  He was one of the
first settlers on the Creek who gave it the name of their native State.  During
the war of the Rebellion he was enrolled in the State militia, and was called
into service at the time of the Price raid, and upon the occasion of several
Indian invasions.  With the exception of about two years, when he was in
Colorado and on the Plains, Mr. Osborne has remained upon his present location
since his settlement.  He has since bought eighty acres adjoining his original
purchase, and has about sixty acres under cultivation.  Mr. Osborne married
Miss Hannah Moffitt, of Toledo Twp, Oct. 22, 1865;  she died March 18,1873,
after bearing him three children, of whom Lizzie I.B., and Bertha E.B., are
now living.  He afterward married Miss Lydia Maria Cope, of Morgan Co., OH,
Aug. 18, 1874, by which marriage he has had three children, of whom Guy C.,
and Maggie N., are now living.


Bio. of William Osborn


        The History of Adams Co., Illinois, Murray, Williamson, & Phelps, Chicago,
        1879.  Page 673.  (transcript)

   OSBORN WILLIAM, grocery, 623 Hampshire street; residence between 7th and
8th; born in Lincolnshire, Eng., in 1838; came to the United States in 1848,
and located in Quincy.  He visited Europe in 1858; married Miss Kate Myers in
1863.  She was born in Pennsylvania in 1840.  They have one child, Nettie.
He has been in the grocery business ten years.  Mr. Osborn is a polite
gentleman, peculiarly adapted to his business, possessing a thorough knowledge
of it.  His customers are always sure to find what they are in search of, of
the best quality.


Bio. of William Osborn


        Illustrated History of Los Angeles County, California,
        The Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, 1889.  Page 786.
        (transcript)
        [See the bio. of William M. Osborn]

WILLIAM OSBORN, manufacturer and dealer in harness and saddlery, Aliso street,
Los Angeles, was born in New York State, October 30, 1835.  His parents
removed to Illinois during his early boyhood.  Upon reaching manhood he came
to California by way of the Isthmus of Panama, in 1855, began working in the
mines, and continued for three years, then came to Los Angeles and engaged in
freighting to Owens River, Arizona, and Utah.  After continuing the business
for some years, he sold out to the Cerro Gordo Freighting Company.  In March,
1877, he established his present business in an old adobe building where
Baker's Block now stands. From Main street he removed to Spring street,
between Second and Third, and from there to his own property on the corner of
Fifth and Hill streets.  In 1883 he removed to his present location.  He has
a large acquaintance with freighting men, and manufactures most of the heavy
truck harness for all the companies.  He has a large and commodious shop, and
employs eight to ten hands, and has a well-established trade.  He has held
the office of county road commissioner, supervisor and member of the board of
councilmen.  In 1868 Mr. Osborn married Miss Rosetta Baldwin, a native of
San Bernardino.  They have two children: Rosetta and George Arlington.


Bio. of William E. Osborn


        History of Yolo County, California, Historic Record Co.,
        Los Angeles, 1913.  Page 753.  (transcript)

WILLIAM E. OSBORN
   The manager of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, William E. Osborn
is a resident of Woodland and has charge of the company's business in that
territory, besides managing the districts of Knights Landing and Yolo.  As
early as 1897 he entered the employ of the Nevada County Electric Power
Company and when the interests of the concern were merged into those of its
successor, the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, he continued with the
newer organization, whose affairs he has superintended with characteristic
sagacity and keen intelligence.  After having filled various subordinate
positions he was made manager for Nevada City in 1901, but the following
year he was transferred to Woodland, where he has since remained as manager
for the company.  Meanwhile the business has reached a size three times
larger than that of 1902 and this gratifying increase is due in no small
measure to his capable management and tactful control of the entire situation.
   A study of the history of the Osborn family reveals their connection with
California ever since the era of mining activity.  Hosmer Prosper Osborn,
who was born at Cooperstown, N.Y., and engaged in the clothing business in
New York City, on hearing of the discovery of gold joined with a company of
other Argonauts in the purchase of the sailing vessel Morning Star, which
came to California via the Horn during the year 1849.  Like all newcomers
of that era, he hastened to the mines.  His experience was principally in
Auburn ravine and did not bring any special good fortune, so he settled in
Sacramento, where he engaged in the hardware and stove business.  One of the
destructive fires of the pioneer era wiped out all of his former profits and
forced him to begin anew without capital.  At first he operated a bakery,
but later he removed to the line of Placer and Sacramento counties and
embarked in the sheep business.  Selling out the flock in 1873 he returned
to Sacramento and there opened a wood and coal yard, which he managed until
his death in 1884.  Honored among the early settlers, he was chosen president
of the Sacramento Pioneer Association and filled the position for some time.
During the early days he also was a member of the Sacramento Volunteer fire
department.
   The marriage of this California pioneer had occurred some time before he
left New York City for the western coast of the continent.  He had chosen as
his wife Marietta Folger, who was born at Hudson, N.Y., and who in 1852 came
via the Horn on a sailing vessel to San Francisco, accompanied by her five
daughters.  Her death occurred in Sacramento.  Of the eight children forming
the family all but two attained maturity and three are now living.  The
youngest child and only son, William E., was born in Sacramento, Cal., December
8, 1855, and graduated from the high school of the capital city in 1875.
During 1876 he matriculated in the University of California, which institution
in 1880 conferred upon him the degree of Ph.B. Upon his return to Sacramento
he aided his father in the coal and wood business.  Upon the death of the
proprietor he became manager in 1884 and continued as such until he had closed
out the business in 1891.  Later he went to Guatemala, Central America, where
for four years he engaged in raising coffee.  Returning to California he spent
a short time in Sacramento and in 1897 entered into the business relations
which have developed to their present importance.
   The first marriage of Mr. Osborn united him with Miss Caroline Korb, who
was born at Marysville, Cal., and died at San Francisco during the year 1901.
Later he was married in Woodland to Mrs. Fannie E. Foley, a native of Shasta
county, this state, and the mother, by this union, of a daughter, Marietta C.
Osborn.  The family are identified with the Unitarian Church of Woodland and
Mr. Osborn officiates as a member of the board of trustees, besides aiding
liberally in the maintenance of the church and the support of its charities.
In national politics he votes with the Republican party.  The Chamber of
Commerce has had the benefit of his intelligent co-operation and business
experience, while other movements for local advancement also have not lacked
his cordial helpfulness. As past president he is connected with the Native
Sons of the Golden West and his fraternal relations are further enlarged
through his association with Nevada City Lodge No. 518, Benevolent Protective
Order of Elks.


Bio. of William F. Osborn


        History of Kansas (Coffey Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago, 1883.
        Page 657.  (transcript)

   DR. WILLIAM F. OSBORN was born in Fayette Co., PA in 1830, and lived in his
native State twenty-three years, and removed to Quincy, IL, and lived there
until 1857, then removed to Chicago, and remained there three years;  then
moved to Memphis, MO, and commenced the practice of medicine, and also took
editorial charge of the Memphis National Democrat, entering warmly into the
political issues that were then about to convulse the nation, strongly
advocating the cause of the Union, and opposing the secession movement.  In
1861 he returned to his native State and entered the army as Assistant Surgeon
of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry;  was promoted and made
Surgeon of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and remained with that regiment
until it was mustered out of service at the close of the war.  He then located
in Mount Pleasant, PA, and practiced his profession there until 1870, when he
removed to Burlington, KS, where he has since resided.  Dr. Osborn commenced
the study of medicine in Quincy, with Dr. W.S. Everett;  took a six months'
course at the Michigan University, then went into the office of Dr. Daniel
Brainard, of Chicago, and graduated at Rush Medical College, Feb. 15, 1860.
He studied law, and was admitted to the bar as a practicing attorney in
Burlington, in 1872.  He was married in Fayette Co., PA, in June, 1875, to
Miss Frances Freeman, a native of that county.  They have two children,
William F. and John L.  The doctor is a member of the Masonic Order, and
I.O.O.F.  He is a member of the Presbyterian Church.


Bio. of William J. Osborn


        History of Kansas (Johnson Co.), pub. A.T. Andreas, Chicago, 1883.
        Page 643.  (transcript)

   REV. WILLIAM J. OSBORN, pastor of First Methodist Episcopal Church, was born
in Trumbull Co., OH, Dec. 20, 1838 and reared on a farm.  He followed school
teaching several years in PA and IN, and was for three years engaged in
mercantile business in Stark Co., OH.  He began the study of law in that county
in 1868, and two years later commenced studying for the ministry.  In 1874 he
began as a local preacher.  Mr. O. came to KS in 1877, had charge of the
Methodist Episcopal Church in Linden for three years, after which he had a
church at Auburn, KS, until the spring of 1882, when he came to Gardner and
entered upon his present duties.  He was ordained a Deason of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, at Salina, KS, in March, 1878, by Bishop Elder, and Elder
in March, 1882, at Abilene by Bishop Warren.


Bio. of William M. Osborn


        Historical and Biographical Record of Southern California,
        Chapman Publishing Co., Chicago, 1902.  Page 1239.
        (transcript)
        [See the bio. of William Osborn]

   WILLIAM M. OSBORN.  A noteworthy position among the pioneers of Los
Angeles is held by Mr. Osborn, of No. 1345 Albany street.  He was born in
Chenango county, N.Y., October 30, 1834, but at the age of three years was
taken to Illinois, where his father, Archibald, became a pioneer farmer
near Princeton, Bureau county, remaining in that locality until his death
at sixty-five years.  During the existence of the Whig party he had been
one of its stanch upholders, and upon its disintegration he identified
himself with the newly organized Republican party.  The boyhood years of
William M. were uneventfully passed on the home farm, which he assisted in
placing under cultivation.  Desirous of seeking his livelihood in the west,
where he believed opportunities to be greater than in Illinois, in 1855 he
came to the Pacific coast via the isthmus.  Like all newcomers during the
'50s, he considered mining the only industry possible in California, and
accordingly he hastened to Downeyville, where for three years he prosecuted
the work of a miner.  However, the results were less gratifying than he had
anticipated, so he abandoned his claim and came to Los Angeles, his first
visit here being in 1858.  The then sleepy Spanish town did not especially
attract him, so he went elsewhere, but in 1861 returned to Los Angeles.
Here he bought teams and began teaming and freighting from different points
in California to Arizona, conducting the business with such success that he
finally acquired one hundred and twenty-one horses and twenty-four wagons,
all of which were in constant use.  An entire month was consumed in making
a round trip between the points on his route.  Not only was the journey a
long one, but it was not without danger as well, for Indians were very
numerous and gave frequent instances of hostility.  On selling his outfit
to the Sierra Gorda Freighting Company, he opened a livery and also engaged
in the harness manufacturing business.  His connection with the latter
business was unexpected to himself.  He was obliged to take, on a security
debt, a harness shop on Fifth street between Broadway and Hill, and, not
being able to dispose of it to advantage, took up the management of the
same himself, and has continued the same to the present time.  During early
days he bought for $300 the lot where the Chamber of Commerce now stands,
and this he later sold for $1,800, investing the proceeds in his present
property on the corner of Fifth and Broadway.  Here he built a livery barn
and conducted business in the renting and sale of horses until September,
1901, when he sold his equipment and rented the building.
   In San Bernardino county, Mr. Osborn married Miss Rosetta Baldwin, who
was born there April 10, 1853.  The year before she was born her parents,
Robert and Rosanna Baldwin, crossed the plains from the east (her father
having been originally from England), and settled at San Bernardino, entering
one hundred and sixty-five acres of land and engaging in the stock business,
making a specialty of hogs.  On that ranch Mr. Baldwin died when fifty-eight
years of age, and his wife when sixty-two.  The children of Mr. and Mrs.
Osborn are as follows: Rose, Mrs. F.W. Putnam, of Vermont; Maude, who died in
infancy; William, who was seven at the time of his death; George, a farmer
near Riverside, Cal.; Arthur, a twelve-year-old boy, now attending school;
and Donald, also a pupil in local schools.
   Through the influence of his wife, who is an enthusiastic believer in the
principles of socialism, Mr. Osborn has been converted to that political
belief.  During his early residence in Los Angeles he served for one term
as a member of the city council, and in 1887 he was honored by election as
county supervisor, which office he filled carefully and well.  Like all
pioneers, he has the greatest faith in the prosperity and growth of Los
Angeles and believes that it is destined ultimately to be the queen of all
the cities on the sunset sea.