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Rodolphus William PADELFORD

Rodolphus William PADELFORD

Male 1806 - 1894  (88 years)

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  • Name Rodolphus William PADELFORD  [1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20] 
    • "Autobiographies of Fox Valley Pioneers" - Rodolphus Padelford removed from the city of Buffalo, Erie County, New York, and first arrived in Elgin, Illinois, on 19 October 1842. He first resided in the City of Elgin on lots 11 and 12, block #1 James T. Gifford's addition.

      Clerk of the Baptist Church of Elgin - 35 years.
      Treasurer town of Elgin 34 years - Town Clerk 28 years
      Clerk of the Baptist Assn. - 31 years.
      Deacon Baptist Church of Elgin - 30 years
      Clerk of the City of Elgin - 20 years
      Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of City of Elgin & City Court of Elgin - 21 years
      Sec. of the Board of Trustees of Illinois Northern Hospital for the Insane 8 1/2 years. [1]
    • Elgin Every Saturday - 8 December 1894

      DIED

      The death of Deacon Padelford removes from Elgin one of its old landmarks, a man as widely known and respected and as closely identified with the history of this city as any of the pioneers who witnessed the city as any of the pioneers who witnessed the city's growth from the early forties until the present time. On Wednesday evening Rudolphus Williams Padelford breathed his last and an active and honorable career came to an end. He was born July 21, 1806 at Savoy, Mass. He came to Elgin in 1842, engaged in mercantile business, then conducted a daguerreotype gallery and later turned his attention to the insurance business. He was Elgin's first city clerk, which office he held until 1875. He was also town clerk, clerk of the city court, secretary of the insane hospital board and township treasurer, all offices of trust, showing the esteem in which he was held. Deacon Padelford as very prominent in Baptist circles and held the office of clerk of the State Baptist association. Four children survive, Mrs. E.S. Joslyn, Mrs. E.C. Kincald, Miss Jeannette and George W. Temperate and frugal in all his habits, Mr. Padelford accumulated a comfortable property which has bee entirely dissipated in late years, a fact which has added special pathos to his declining days. [2]
    Birth 21 Jul 1806  Savoy, Berkshire, Massachusetts, USA Find all individuals with events at this location  [1, 8, 20] 
    Gender Male 
    Census 1840  Head of household in Buffalo, Erie Co., New York Find all individuals with events at this location  [21] 
    Residence 1842  Removed to Elgin, Kane Co., Ill. Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Residence 19 Oct 1842  Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location 
    Census 1850  Living in Elgin, Kane Co., Ill Find all individuals with events at this location  [22] 
    Occupation 1850  [22] 
    Daguerrer 
    Residence Between 1859 and 1860  Elgin, Kane, Illinois, USA Find all individuals with events at this location  [23] 
    Census 1860  Living in Elgin, Kane Co., Ill Find all individuals with events at this location  [24] 
    Occupation 1860  [24] 
    Artist 
    Census 1870  living in Elgin, Kane Co., Ill. Find all individuals with events at this location  [25] 
    Occupation 1870  [25] 
    Clerk in Court of Common Pleas, 
    Census 1880  LIving in Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location  [26] 
    Occupation 1880  [26] 
    Clerk of City Court 
    Religion Baptist 
    Death 08 Dec 1894  Chicago, Cook, Illinois, USA Find all individuals with events at this location  [20, 27] 
    Cause: Old Age 
    Burial Bluff City Cemetery, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location  [27] 
    Notes 
    • Rodolphus removed from the City of Buffalo, Erie County, New York, and first arrived in Elgin, Illinois, on October 19, 1842. He first resided in City of Elgin on lots 11 and 12, Block #1 James T. Gifford's Addition.

      Occupations:

      Clerk of the Baptist Church of Elgin 35 years
      Treasurer Town of Elgin 34 years
      Town Clerk 28 years
      Clerk of the Baptist Assn. 31 years
      Deacon Baptist Church of Elgin 30 years
      Clerk of the City of Elgin 20 years
      Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of City of Elgin & City Court of Elgin 21 years
      Sec. of the Board of Trustees of Illinois Northern Hospital for the Insane 8 1/2 years

      Upon settling in Elgin in 1842, Rodolphus was the first one to locate a daguerreotype gallery. His place of business was located just west of where the railroad tracks now cross Chicago St.
      People used to say that no one did a more careful job of bookkeeping than Rodolphous. One calamity that befell him was that his office caught fire at one time and among the things that were burned were all the records he had so carefully kept of the meetings of the Baptist Church.
      He was always a friend of the downtrodden. At one time, he conducted a station on the "underground railroad". Many a colored person owed liberty to him. It was said that he held an open hand and an open heart to all men.

      Upon the death of his wife, Rodolphus went to live with his youngest daughter, Isadore. He died quietly in his daughter's home.

      Rodolphous often made the following statement to his friends and family: "I am truly proud of my family tree, because of the brave and upright people who are on it. How much superior is the lineage which contains such men as Roger Williams and the martyrs who have died for freedom than an ancestry containing Kings who did nothing to make a better world."

      Named in a executor's bond in the last will and testament of Manly Padelford, dated October 5, 1848

      Named administrator of estate of Thankful Padelford.

      Elgin Daily News (Kane County, Ill.)
      April 2, 1875, p. 4

      Reads: "47 years ago, today, Mr. and Mrs. R.W. Padelford were married at Buffalo, New York. They have resided in Elgin for 41 years."

      Elgin Evening Advocate (Kane County, Ill.)
      April 3, 1883, p. 4

      Reads: After Many Days
      "Yesterday was the 53rd anniversary of the wedding of R.W. Padelford, Esq., and Mary Wilber, who were married in Buffalo, New York. Saturday it occurred to a few nieces that the occasion would be a proper one on which to visit "Uncle Rudolphus" and "Aunt Mary", and so the relatives who were convenient of access were warned to be on hand Monday evening, as six o'clock for a picnic. At that hour about 35 relatives marched in, little and big, armed with baskets and packages, and took possession of the house. The number at seven o'clock had increased to over sixty, including sixteen children, holding the relation of grand-children,great-grandchildren, grand nephews and nieces under twelve years of age. A table was soon loaded by the nieces and all were abundantly satisfied, and then music, recitations by the little ones, and general sociability followed fro a couple of hours. The nieces present were Mesdames C.D. Church, E.H. Hill, C.V. McClure, J. O. Wedell, and Misses Julia Padelford, MInnie Wilber and Emma Davidson.
      The occasion was thoroughly enjoyed by all present, and at a seasonable hour the guests departed, leaving loving words wit the venerable couple whose house for so many years has been a rallying point for legions who from childhood have regarded "Aunt Mary" as a mutual and loving friend."

      Elgin Daily Wuner (Kane Co., Ill.)
      March 31, 1888
      p. 4

      Reads: A Long Time
      "Monday, April 2d, will be the 60th anniversary of the wedding of R.W. Padelford an Mary Wilber. It is a long time to look back over, but to them full of the pleasant memories of a life wel lived, there is not a shadow of regret of the union. Mr. Padelford at 82 years of age is as active as most men of 60, and gives daily attention to business and receives the confidence of the community. Mrs. Padelford, though partially helpless, still commands the love and respect of a large circle. None of our citizens but will wish them continued peace and happiness."

      Elgin Daily News (Kane Co., Ill.)
      December 6, 1894
      p. 3

      R.W. Padelford
      Another Pioneer of Elgin Has Gone
      Came to This City 52 yearsaAgo- useful life.

      "Rudolphus Williams Padelford died Wednesday evening at 6:30 o'clock and with his departure has passed one of the most familiar personages of Elgin's history. Everybody knew him, as he was for many years prominent in various ways. He was born in Savoy, Mass., July 21, 1806, making him over 88 years of age. He came to Elgin in 1842, and this had since been his home. First he engaged here in merchandising, afterwards was in the daguerreotype business. For many years he was an insurance agent. He was city clerk of Elgin from the organization of the city until 1875, when he was succeeded by the present incumbent. He was also the town clerk for years, and when the city court ws established was chosen clerk. That position he filled until a few years ago, when J.R. Tuttle succeeded him. He was secretary of the asylum board, township treasurer, and for many years was clerk of the state Baptist association. Always prominent in the Baptist church, his counsels since infirmaties overcame him have been much missed. A few years ago his health so failed that retirement from active duties was imperative. Since then, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E.C. Kincaid, he had been peacefully awiting the end. His wife died a few years ago. His other children are Jane (Mrs. E.S. Joslyn), Jeannette, and George W. Mr. Padelford was of English descent. Previous to coming to Elgin he kept a hotel in Buffalo, N.Y. and also was a merchant there. At this writing arrangements have not been completed for the funeral."

      Elgin Evening Dial
      December 7, 1894
      p. 5

      "R.W. Padelford died Wednesday evening, aged 88 years. He came to Elgin over 50 years ago, and has been a prominent citizen ever since, until two years ago, when his failing health compelled him to retire. He leave 3 daughters, Mrs. E.C. Kincaid, with whom he resided, Mrs. E.C. Joslyn, Jeannette, and one son, George W. The funeral will be held Saturday from the home of E.C. Kincaid"

      Elgin Every Saturday (Kane Co., Ill.)
      December 8, 1894
      p. 8

      "The death of Deacon Padelford removes from Elgin one of its old landmarks, a man as widely known and respected and as closely identified with the history of this city as any of the pioneers who witnessed the city's growth from the early forties until the present time. On Wednesday evening Rudolphus Williams Padelford breathed his last and an active and honorable career came to an end. He was born July 21, 1806 at Savoy, Mass. He came to Elgin in 1842, engaged in mercantile business, then conducted a daguerreotype gallery and later turned his attention to the insurance business. He was Elgin's first city clerk, which office he held until 1875. He was also town clerk, clerk of the city court, secretary of the insane hospital board, and township treasurer, all offices of trust, showing the esteem in which he was held. Deacon Padelford was very prominent in Baptist circles and held the office of clerk of the State Baptist association. Four children survie, Mrs. E.S. Joslyn, Mrs. E.C. Kincaid, Miss Jeannett and George W. Temperate and frugal in all his habits, Mr. Padelford accumulated a comfortable property which has been entirely dissipated in late years, a fact which has added especial pathos to his declining days."

      The Quincy Daily Whig: 1869 Mar 29

      Elgin, Ill March 17 - The family of R.W. Padelford, consisting of six persons, was nearly suffocated by gas from a coal stove last night. A daughter on awaking past midnight and feeling ill arose, but immediately fell to the floor. The noise awoke another of the family, who was unable to rise and well nigh suffocated. Mrs. Padelford on awaking attempted to get out of bed, but was too near suffocated to do so; she suceeded in arousing Mr. Padelford, however, who finally succeeded by the utmost exertion in reaching the window and raising it. A physician was immediately called who administered restoratives. All are improving at present.
    Person ID I42918  Main Tree
    Last Modified 26 Nov 2018 

    Father Manly PADELFORD,   b. 17 Oct 1778, Savoy, Berkshire, Massachusetts, USA Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 03 Sep 1848, Elgin, Kane County, Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 69 years) 
    Relationship Birth 
    Mother Thankful CRAPO,   b. 23 Nov 1780, Freetown, Bristol, Massachusetts, USA Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 02 Mar 1862, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 81 years) 
    Relationship Birth 
    Marriage Contract 10 Jan 1802  Savoy, Berkshire, Massachusetts, USA Find all individuals with events at this location  [8] 
    Marriage 28 Mar 1802  Savoy, Berkshire, Massachusetts, USA Find all individuals with events at this location  [8, 20, 28] 
    Family ID F05297  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart

    Family Mary P. WILBER,   b. 22 Apr 1808, Brookfield, Madison Co., New York Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 16 Aug 1888, Chicago, Cook, Illinois, USA Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 80 years) 
    Marriage 02 Apr 1828  Village of Buffalo, Erie Co., New York Find all individuals with events at this location  [1] 
    Children 
     1. Levantia PADELFORD,   b. 02 Mar 1829, Buffalo, New York Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 25 Aug 1859, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 30 years)
     2. William PADELFORD,   b. Jun 1830   d. 05 Sep 1830, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 0 years)  [Birth]
     3. Jane PADELFORD,   b. 19 Aug 1833, Buffalo, New York Find all individuals with events at this location  [Natural]
     4. Janette PADELFORD,   b. 09 Jul 1835, New York, USA Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 01 Jan 1927, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 91 years)
     5. George W. PADELFORD,   b. 25 Jun 1838, Buffalo, New York Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 08 May 1917, Oak Park, Cook Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 78 years)  [Birth]
     6. Harriet Isadore PADELFORD,   b. 19 Nov 1844, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this locationd. Aft 1900 (Age > 57 years)  [Birth]
     7. Rodolphus William PADELFORD, Jr.,   b. 12 Jul 1849, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this locationd. 05 Sep 1850, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Find all individuals with events at this location (Age 1 year)  [Birth]
    Family ID F04925  Group Sheet  |  Family Chart
    Last Modified 18 Aug 2011 

  • Event Map
    Link to Google MapsCensus - 1840 - Head of household in Buffalo, Erie Co., New York Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsResidence - 19 Oct 1842 - Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCensus - 1850 - Living in Elgin, Kane Co., Ill Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsResidence - Between 1859 and 1860 - Elgin, Kane, Illinois, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCensus - 1860 - Living in Elgin, Kane Co., Ill Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCensus - 1870 - living in Elgin, Kane Co., Ill. Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsCensus - 1880 - LIving in Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsDeath - Cause: Old Age - 08 Dec 1894 - Chicago, Cook, Illinois, USA Link to Google Earth
    Link to Google MapsBurial - - Bluff City Cemetery, Elgin, Kane Co., Illinois Link to Google Earth
     = Link to Google Earth 

  • Headstones
    Rodolphus William Padelford Headstone    		Rodolphus William Padelford Headstone
    Rodolphus William is the son of Manly Padelford and Thankful Crapo. He is buried in the Bluff City Cemetery in Elgin, Cook Co., Illinois.

    Created by: So Little Time
    Photo Added by: So Little Time

  • Sources 
    1. [S01853] Autobiographies Of Fox Valley Pioneers by Elgin Genealogical Society.

    2. [S02208] Elgin Every Saturday.

    3. [S03305] Rootsweb-Mayflower Database.

    4. [S02891] "Deanna", Padelford Family History "Descendants of Jonathan Paddleford".

    5. [S02869] Old Elgin Tales, dated May 6, 1970 by Hazel Belle Perry.

    6. [S01970] City of Elgin, Kane Co., Ill Death Records.

    7. [S03500] Town Records of Savoy, Mass.

    8. [S03322] Savoy Vital Records, Berkshire County, Massachusetts.

    9. [S02205] Elgin Daily Wuner, March 31, 1888, p. 4.

    10. [S02207] Elgin Evening Dial, December 7, 1894 p. 5.

    11. [S02203] Elgin Daily News, December 6, 1894 p. 3.

    12. [S02208] Elgin Every Saturday, December 8, 1894 p. 8.

    13. [S02203] Elgin Daily News, April 2, 1875 p. 4.

    14. [S02206] Elgin Evening Advocate, April 3, 1883 p. 4.

    15. [S01671] Ancestors of Amelia T. Padelford by Kevin A. Swope.

    16. [S00457] 1870 Census Illinois.

    17. [S02203] Elgin Daily News, April 3, 1878.

    18. [S02256] Executor's Bond for Last Will and Testament of Manly Padelford, October 5, 1848.

    19. [S03372] State of Illinois, Kane County Petition for Letters of Administration.

    20. [S00091] "The Peter Crapo Clan" by Richley H. Crapo, (Name: Name: Updated 7 Dec 2005;;).

    21. [S00117] 1840 Census New York.

    22. [S00152] 1850 Census Elgin, Kane County, Illinois.

    23. [S02466] Illinois Trails History & Genealogy Presents....Kane County, IL Directory.

    24. [S00315] 1860 Census Kane County, Illinois.

    25. [S00435] 1870 Census Elgin, Kane County, Illinois.

    26. [S00614] 1880 Census Elgin, Kane County, Illinois.

    27. [S02329] Find A Grave Website.

    28. [S01873] Berkshire Genealogical Notes No. 5 - Marriages in Savoy, Massachusetts.


  

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