Y-DNA haplotype is "I1".
Dr. Peter DeCoursey (1816-1897) was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, son of Isaac and Salome "Sally" (Helmick) DeCoursey who were married in Stark Co., OH 21 Jan 1815.
Peter DeCoursey m. 1st 13 Oct 1836 in Medina Co., OH to Elizabeth Calbitzer. She probably was a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Catherine (WALTZ) CALBETZER (Colpetzer); and granddaughter of Peter and Eva (MILLIRON) WALTZ of Doylestown, Ohio. Her mother was a sister-in-law of Adam HELMICK (1788-1848) who married Christina WALTZ.
See: A ROSTER OF REVOLUTIONARY ANCESTORS OF THE INDIANA DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, v.1, p.667; D.A.R. #353661; Cuyahoga Portage Chapter DAR, SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO BIBLE RECORDS (Akron, 1972), p.187.
It is believed that this marriage ended in divorce shortly thereafter, and that Elizabeth married 2nd to Charles Hoover and moved to Ransom, Hillsboro Co., Michigan.
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A severe drought in eastern Ohio in the mid 1830's may have prompted the DECOURSEY's and others to seek new lands in the west. Prior to 1837, Isaac DECOURSEY and his family followed Timothy JOHNSON of Monteville, Medina Co., Ohio on an expedition to Jefferson County, Wisconsin. Peter DECOURSEY is listed as one of those who came to Johnson's Rapids, Jefferson Co., Wisconsin for the purpose of settling prior to 1837.
Ref: HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1879), p.336-407,442-443. Also John Henry Ott's JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1917), Vol.I, p.149,298.
When Timothy JOHNSON and the DECOURSEY's arrived in the vicinity of Watertown, Wisconsin, "the banks of the river were thickly fringed with a beautiful growth of cedars, the background being thickly wooded on the east side with stately oaks and on the east with a forest of maples, elm and ash." Elmer C. Kiessling, WATERTOWN REMEMBERED (1976), p.29.
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Peter DeCoursey married 2nd on 5 Jul 1846 at Ixonia, Jefferson Co., WI to Larissa Mills (1828-1881) by whom he had 8 children all born in Wisconsin.
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Peter DECOURSEY was elected Commissioner of Highways for Watertown, Wisconsin in 1848.
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On Aug 15, 1850, Peter DeCourcey, age 34, born Ohio, was a proprietor of a Tavern or Inn at Watertown, Wisconsin. Listed in his household were Lorica DeCORSEY, age 22, born NY; Edward DeCORSEY, age 3, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 62 b. NJ; and Amelia SCHOULTS, age 19. -- U.S. Census 1850 Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, p.76.
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In 1849, Crawford County, Wisconsin was divided. "In the division LaCrosse and Monroe Counties were at first one, bearing the name LaCROSSE County, with the little settlement at Prairie La Crosse its county seat and post office." Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
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The act creating Monroe County provided that it should constitute one town, Leon, and it provided for the election of three town supervisors on the first Tuesday of April 1854 who were also to serve as the board of county supervisors. R.J. CASSELMAN, Lloyd ANGLE, and Peter DeCOURSEY were elected as the town board of the town of Leon, and thereby became the first county board of supervisors of the county of Monroe. The first meeting of the county board was held, 11 April 1854, in the Globe Hotel." Journal of Proceedings of the Monroe County Board of Supervisors, v.1, pp.1-3; Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY (1912), p.68,522. MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN PICTORIAL HISTORY (1976), p.119. INVENTORY OF THE COUNTY ARCHIVES OF WISCONSIN #41 MONROE COUNTY, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society TIME CAPSULES (April 1976), v.1, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
- By 1855, one year after its organization, Monroe County, Wisconsin had an aggregate population of 2,407.
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In 1851 Peter DeCoursey moved from Watertown, WI to Leon, WI with his family and served as one of the three initial county commissioners for Monroe Co., WI which was formed out of LaCrosse Co. WI. Other early settlers at Leon, Wisconsin were Ambrose L. COMSTOCK, Robert RAY, Henry VANETTEN and A.H GILLILAND. Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1812), p.68,123,131,143,521-523.
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On 6 Aug 1854, John WELDON deeded Lot 6, 24 & 25 in block 2, Town of Bangor, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Peter DeCOURCY. Vol.4, p.303.
Peter and Isaac DeCOURSEY opened a store in the Village of Bangor, Wisconsin in 1855. See HISTORY OF LACROSSE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1881), p.724.
On 3 Mar 1859, Peter and Loricia DeCOURCY conveyed property in Sparta, Wisconsin from and back to William BENNETT. Monroe Co. Deeds Vol.8, p.26 & vol.9, p.121.
In 1859 Robert RAY purchased land in Sparta, Monroe Co., Wisc. He married Peter DeCoursey's niece, Harriet Comstock, dau. of Mary (DeCoursey) Comstock.
On 14 May 1859 Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY mortgaged Sec.27, S16, NR4W to P.M. CARPENTER. Monroe Co. Mortgages v.5, p.24.
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On 21 June 1860, Peter DeCOURCY, age 44, Farmer, born Ohio was a resident of the town of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Others in the household included: L. DeCOURCY, age 33, born NY; E.G. DeCOURCY age 14, born Wisconsin; Isaac DeCOURCY age 12, born WI; P. DeCOURCY age 10, born WI; Sarah DeCOURCY age 7, born WI; C.M. DeCOURCY age 5, born WI; J.F. DeCOURCY age 3, born WI; Clara DeCOURCY age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCOURCY age 67, born New Jersey; and J.D. CORNISH age 26, born Mich., farm laborer. 1860 Federal Census of Monroe Co., Wisconsin, v.1,p.61-62.
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On 17 Dec 1862, Peter & Isaac DeCOURCY mortgaged property in Monroe County, Wisconsin. Mortgage Book v.4, p.257-259.
- In 1866 Isaac DeCOURCY sold to Peter DeCOURCY property in sec.27, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Vol.19, p.88
Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY sold land in sec.13, twp.16, R6, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Andrew Wolfe, 30 Feb 1867. Vol.31, p.387.
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Peter's granddaughter, Charlotte (DeCourcy) Thrush (1896-1980) stated in an interview in 1977 that she was told by her father, Issac Henry DeCourcy, that her grandfather, Peter DeCoursey (1816), had medical knowledge and was able to saved her father's (Isaac DeCoursey's) leg from amputation after a farm machinery accident. It is probable that Peter had no formal medical training, but learned veterinarian medicine from his occupation of farming and served as a general medical practitioner in the small town of Leon. In Peter's dependant parents pension papers filed in 1890 on the basis of his deceased son's (Edward G. DeCourcey's) Civil War service, he states that he "sells medicines for a living". Later, his occupation is listed as "physician in the 1893 thru 1895 Minneapolis City directories.
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Peter's son, Isaac Henry DeCourcey (1848-1909) married 1st to Anna Emma C. Barney in June 1871 at "Peddlers Grove" (Alma City, MN near Waseca) while accompanying his father, Peter, selling medicine from a horse drawn wagon. See picture of the Dr. DeCoursey Liniment bottle dating to about 1870.
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July 30, 1870. Peter DeCOURSEY, age 54, Farmer, born Ohio, was a resident of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. Others in the household included: Lourisa DeCOURSEY, age 43, born NY; Peter DeCOURSEY, Jr., age 20, born WI; John DeCOURSEY, age 13, born WI; Clara DeCOURSEY, age 12, born WI; and Easu JOHNSON, age 26, born Norway. U.S. 1870 Federal Census, Monroe Co., WI v.1,p.133.
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On 24 June 1873, Peter DeCOURCY sold his property in sec.27, T.16, R4 to George W. FOX. Monroe Co., Wisc. Deeds v.30, p.107.
In 1873 Peter DeCOURCY moved his family to New Hartford, Winona Co., Minnesota. In Minnesota, he established himself in the bottling and selling of patent medicines throughout Southern Minnesota and elsewhere. At least six original specimens of "DR. DECOURSEY'S LINIMENT" bottles are known to be in existence as of 2014.
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The 1875 State census of New Hartford, Winona Co., MN lists the following:
Household #143
DECOURSEY, P., age 59, b. Ohio
DECOURSEY, Lourisa, age 43,b. NY
DECOURSEY, John C. F., age 18, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Clara Belle, age 17, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Isaac, age 81, b. NJ
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In 1876 Peter DeCOURCY was assessed on 114 acres in sec.18 of New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota in.
In 1877 and 1878 there was a record in New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., Minnesota, of money paid to Peter DeCOURCY for road work.
On 15 January 1878, Peter DeCOURCEY mortgaged property in sec.18, New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota. Another mortgage was taken out 15 August 1878.
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The 1880 Federal census of New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., MN lists:
DeCORSA, P., age 68, born Ohio;
DeCORSA, Louisa, wife, age 52, born NY;
DeCORSA, Belle, dau., age 22, b. Wisc.
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Peter's wife, Loricia (MILLS) DeCOURSEY died 17 May 1881.
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Sometime before 1885 Peter DeCOURCY sold his land in New Hartford, MN to Wenzel BLUMENTRITT. This land was in 1977 a part of the farm owned by Daryl WITT.
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In May 1885 Peter DeCoursey, age 70, born Ohio was listed on the MN State census as a resident of Gull river, Cass Co., MN
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Peter DeCOURSEY, on 16 July 1890, made deposition for a dependent father's pension under the Act of June 27, 1890, as follows: "---Peter DeCOURSEY, aged 78 years, resident of the City of St. Cloud, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is the father of Edward DeCOURSEY, who enlisted under the name of Edward G. DeCOURSEY at Sparta, Wisconsin, on the 8 day of February, 1865 in Co. I, 50th Regiment, Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers, in the War of the Rebellion, who died at Leon, Monroe co., Minn. (sic.) on or about 14 day of January 1869, from the effects of Chronic Diarrhoea and exhaustion having contracted said disability in service incurred at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in June 1865. That said son left neither widow nor child under sixteen years of age, surviving. That declarant was married to the mother of said son on the 5th day of July 1845 at Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, by J.C. Gillman and that she died on the 17 day of May 1881 at LaCrosse, Wisc.---". Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, was listed in the Minneapolis City Directories for 1893-1894 as residing at 20 S. 11th. He stated in his pension application that he "sold medicines for a living." Ron Feldhaus of Edina, MN had in his private bottle collection an old bottle embossed with "Dr. DeCOURSEY'S IRISH LINIMENT" on the front. The side panels of this bottle are embossed with "GILHOOLEY" and "ST. PAUL, MINN." The bottle is aqua with a single sq. bnd. lip with embossed sunken panels. It measures 6-3/16" H. x 1-3/16" D. X 2-1/16" W. There are at least two versions of this bottle. Two of the similar bottles are in the possession of William DeCoursey, New Brighton, MN. and one owned by Lorrie DeCoursey of California.
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On 26 Oct 1893, Peter DeCOURSEY again made deposition at Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN for purpose of obtaining a pension as follows: "I am the identical Peter DeCOURCY the applicant for pension as the dependent father of Edward G. DeCOURCY who served as a private in Co.I, 50 Wisc. Infantry and who died Jan. 14, 1869 from the result of chronic diarrhea contracted while in line of duty in the above stated service. I am 82 years of age and I have no settled occupation, any thing I can get to do to make a living. On July 5, 1845 the mother of Edward DeCOURCY and myself were married at Ixonia, Jefferson co., Wisconsin by Elder George Shumway. I had been married before and my former wife was dead, but the mother of Edward DeCOURCY had never been married. He enlisted February 8, 1865. Before he enlisted he was strong and nearly perfectly healthy and weighed 175 lbs. I saw him when he left Madison, Wisconsin to go to Jefferson Barricks. and he was then well and hearty. They staid at Jefferson Barricks for about a week and then went to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He had not been there more than three weeks when he began to fail and lose his appetite. He wrote and told me that he had chronic diarrhoea. This was about May 1865. I have none of the letters now. He staid Fort Leavenworth until August 1, 1865 when he was discharged. From the time he first took sick in May until he was discharged he was sick all the time. I sent him money to get him food that he could eat for he could not eat the hardtack. He was in the hospital all of July. Robert RAY waited upon him while he was sick. I don't know where he lives now. He moved to the Island of Lopez in the Pacific Ocean. Also William H. COMSTOCK of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota was also with him. Also Henry Robertson who now lives in Owatonna, Steele co., Minnesota. When my son was discharged, he was placed in a boat and taken to the Mississippi River and there put in another boat and sent to LaCrosse, Wisconsin and there I met him. He was first able to travel, but he was not able to leave the house for about two or three weeks. I did not know the surgeon who treated him in the army. Chronic diarrhoea was the cause of his sickness and all the time that he lived after discharge he never did as much as four days work all put together. When he came out of the army, he weight 120 lb., and he never got above 135 lb. after he came home, and for the last year of his life he was just skin and bones. He had diarrhoea all the time after he came home until he died. The diarrhoea eventually --- him into quick consumption and the last few days of his life the pain came up his back and settled in his head. He was conscious up to the time he died. He was confined to his bed for about two months duration. --- QUESTION: Name some of the persons who would know his condition from his discharge to his death. ANSWER: Only those whose testimony appears in the case; but some of the neighbors are John COSGNIFF and Barney SNOW of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. The attending physician was Dr. CHAMBERLAIN of LaCrosse, Wisc. who is dead now, also Dr. G.W. MILLIGAN treated him some. He lives in Sparta, Wisc. if he is now alive. QUESTION: Please give me a schedule of the property owned by you. ANSWER: All I have is just what you see of me. I have no property of any kind either real or personal. There is no one who is under any obligation to support me, and I make my living by selling medicines---." Other depositions were taken in this case from Robert RAY and Hattie RAY, witnessed by Mrs. J.E. WALBRIDGE and H.J. BRANDNESS. See Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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The Minneapolis City Directory for 1895-96 lists Peter DeCOURCY, physician, residing at 332 E. 17th.
The Minneapolis City Directory for 1896 lists Peter DeCOURSEY, physician, residing at 429 NE 2nd St.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, born Ohio, died, 6 Apr 1897, at age 86, of apoplexy at City Hospital in Minneapolis, MN, and he is buried in Lakewood Cemetery, Row 17, grave 6 (South end). The grave was purchased by J.E. WALBRIDGE, a son-in-law. J.E. WALBRIDGE was the husband of Clara Belle (DeCOURCY) WALBRIDGE. They lived at 45 - S. 8th St. Peter's death certificate names his parents as Isaac and Mary DeCOURCY. Info. from death certificate and burial records.
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Dr. Peter DeCoursey (1816-1897) was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, son of Isaac and Salome "Sally" (Helmick) DeCoursey who were married in Stark Co., OH 21 Jan 1815.
Peter DeCoursey m. 1st 13 Oct 1836 in Medina Co., OH to Elizabeth Calbitzer. She probably was a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Catherine (WALTZ) CALBETZER (Colpetzer); and granddaughter of Peter and Eva (MILLIRON) WALTZ of Doylestown, Ohio. Her mother was a sister-in-law of Adam HELMICK (1788-1848) who married Christina WALTZ.
See: A ROSTER OF REVOLUTIONARY ANCESTORS OF THE INDIANA DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, v.1, p.667; D.A.R. #353661; Cuyahoga Portage Chapter DAR, SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO BIBLE RECORDS (Akron, 1972), p.187.
It is believed that this marriage ended in divorce shortly thereafter, and that Elizabeth married 2nd to Charles Hoover and moved to Ransom, Hillsboro Co., Michigan.
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A severe drought in eastern Ohio in the mid 1830's may have prompted the DECOURSEY's and others to seek new lands in the west. Prior to 1837, Isaac DECOURSEY and his family followed Timothy JOHNSON of Monteville, Medina Co., Ohio on an expedition to Jefferson County, Wisconsin. Peter DECOURSEY is listed as one of those who came to Johnson's Rapids, Jefferson Co., Wisconsin for the purpose of settling prior to 1837.
Ref: HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1879), p.336-407,442-443. Also John Henry Ott's JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1917), Vol.I, p.149,298.
When Timothy JOHNSON and the DECOURSEY's arrived in the vicinity of Watertown, Wisconsin, "the banks of the river were thickly fringed with a beautiful growth of cedars, the background being thickly wooded on the east side with stately oaks and on the east with a forest of maples, elm and ash." Elmer C. Kiessling, WATERTOWN REMEMBERED (1976), p.29.
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Peter DeCoursey married 2nd on 5 Jul 1846 at Ixonia, Jefferson Co., WI to Larissa Mills (1828-1881) by whom he had 8 children all born in Wisconsin.
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Peter DECOURSEY was elected Commissioner of Highways for Watertown, Wisconsin in 1848.
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On Aug 15, 1850, Peter DeCourcey, age 34, born Ohio, was a proprietor of a Tavern or Inn at Watertown, Wisconsin. Listed in his household were Lorica DeCORSEY, age 22, born NY; Edward DeCORSEY, age 3, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 62 b. NJ; and Amelia SCHOULTS, age 19. -- U.S. Census 1850 Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, p.76.
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In 1849, Crawford County, Wisconsin was divided. "In the division LaCrosse and Monroe Counties were at first one, bearing the name LaCROSSE County, with the little settlement at Prairie La Crosse its county seat and post office." Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
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The act creating Monroe County provided that it should constitute one town, Leon, and it provided for the election of three town supervisors on the first Tuesday of April 1854 who were also to serve as the board of county supervisors. R.J. CASSELMAN, Lloyd ANGLE, and Peter DeCOURSEY were elected as the town board of the town of Leon, and thereby became the first county board of supervisors of the county of Monroe. The first meeting of the county board was held, 11 April 1854, in the Globe Hotel." Journal of Proceedings of the Monroe County Board of Supervisors, v.1, pp.1-3; Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY (1912), p.68,522. MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN PICTORIAL HISTORY (1976), p.119. INVENTORY OF THE COUNTY ARCHIVES OF WISCONSIN #41 MONROE COUNTY, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society TIME CAPSULES (April 1976), v.1, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
- By 1855, one year after its organization, Monroe County, Wisconsin had an aggregate population of 2,407.
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In 1851 Peter DeCoursey moved from Watertown, WI to Leon, WI with his family and served as one of the three initial county commissioners for Monroe Co., WI which was formed out of LaCrosse Co. WI. Other early settlers at Leon, Wisconsin were Ambrose L. COMSTOCK, Robert RAY, Henry VANETTEN and A.H GILLILAND. Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1812), p.68,123,131,143,521-523.
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On 6 Aug 1854, John WELDON deeded Lot 6, 24 & 25 in block 2, Town of Bangor, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Peter DeCOURCY. Vol.4, p.303.
Peter and Isaac DeCOURSEY opened a store in the Village of Bangor, Wisconsin in 1855. See HISTORY OF LACROSSE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1881), p.724.
On 3 Mar 1859, Peter and Loricia DeCOURCY conveyed property in Sparta, Wisconsin from and back to William BENNETT. Monroe Co. Deeds Vol.8, p.26 & vol.9, p.121.
In 1859 Robert RAY purchased land in Sparta, Monroe Co., Wisc. He married Peter DeCoursey's niece, Harriet Comstock, dau. of Mary (DeCoursey) Comstock.
On 14 May 1859 Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY mortgaged Sec.27, S16, NR4W to P.M. CARPENTER. Monroe Co. Mortgages v.5, p.24.
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On 21 June 1860, Peter DeCOURCY, age 44, Farmer, born Ohio was a resident of the town of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Others in the household included: L. DeCOURCY, age 33, born NY; E.G. DeCOURCY age 14, born Wisconsin; Isaac DeCOURCY age 12, born WI; P. DeCOURCY age 10, born WI; Sarah DeCOURCY age 7, born WI; C.M. DeCOURCY age 5, born WI; J.F. DeCOURCY age 3, born WI; Clara DeCOURCY age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCOURCY age 67, born New Jersey; and J.D. CORNISH age 26, born Mich., farm laborer. 1860 Federal Census of Monroe Co., Wisconsin, v.1,p.61-62.
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On 17 Dec 1862, Peter & Isaac DeCOURCY mortgaged property in Monroe County, Wisconsin. Mortgage Book v.4, p.257-259.
- In 1866 Isaac DeCOURCY sold to Peter DeCOURCY property in sec.27, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Vol.19, p.88
Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY sold land in sec.13, twp.16, R6, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Andrew Wolfe, 30 Feb 1867. Vol.31, p.387.
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Peter's granddaughter, Charlotte (DeCourcy) Thrush (1896-1980) stated in an interview in 1977 that she was told by her father, Issac Henry DeCourcy, that her grandfather, Peter DeCoursey (1816), had medical knowledge and was able to saved her father's (Isaac DeCoursey's) leg from amputation after a farm machinery accident. It is probable that Peter had no formal medical training, but learned veterinarian medicine from his occupation of farming and served as a general medical practitioner in the small town of Leon. In Peter's dependant parents pension papers filed in 1890 on the basis of his deceased son's (Edward G. DeCourcey's) Civil War service, he states that he "sells medicines for a living". Later, his occupation is listed as "physician in the 1893 thru 1895 Minneapolis City directories.
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Peter's son, Isaac Henry DeCourcey (1848-1909) married 1st to Anna Emma C. Barney in June 1871 at "Peddlers Grove" (Alma City, MN near Waseca) while accompanying his father, Peter, selling medicine from a horse drawn wagon. See picture of the Dr. DeCoursey Liniment bottle dating to about 1870.
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July 30, 1870. Peter DeCOURSEY, age 54, Farmer, born Ohio, was a resident of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. Others in the household included: Lourisa DeCOURSEY, age 43, born NY; Peter DeCOURSEY, Jr., age 20, born WI; John DeCOURSEY, age 13, born WI; Clara DeCOURSEY, age 12, born WI; and Easu JOHNSON, age 26, born Norway. U.S. 1870 Federal Census, Monroe Co., WI v.1,p.133.
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On 24 June 1873, Peter DeCOURCY sold his property in sec.27, T.16, R4 to George W. FOX. Monroe Co., Wisc. Deeds v.30, p.107.
In 1873 Peter DeCOURCY moved his family to New Hartford, Winona Co., Minnesota. In Minnesota, he established himself in the bottling and selling of patent medicines throughout Southern Minnesota and elsewhere. At least six original specimens of "DR. DECOURSEY'S LINIMENT" bottles are known to be in existence as of 2014.
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The 1875 State census of New Hartford, Winona Co., MN lists the following:
Household #143
DECOURSEY, P., age 59, b. Ohio
DECOURSEY, Lourisa, age 43,b. NY
DECOURSEY, John C. F., age 18, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Clara Belle, age 17, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Isaac, age 81, b. NJ
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In 1876 Peter DeCOURCY was assessed on 114 acres in sec.18 of New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota in.
In 1877 and 1878 there was a record in New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., Minnesota, of money paid to Peter DeCOURCY for road work.
On 15 January 1878, Peter DeCOURCEY mortgaged property in sec.18, New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota. Another mortgage was taken out 15 August 1878.
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The 1880 Federal census of New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., MN lists:
DeCORSA, P., age 68, born Ohio;
DeCORSA, Louisa, wife, age 52, born NY;
DeCORSA, Belle, dau., age 22, b. Wisc.
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Peter's wife, Loricia (MILLS) DeCOURSEY died 17 May 1881.
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Sometime before 1885 Peter DeCOURCY sold his land in New Hartford, MN to Wenzel BLUMENTRITT. This land was in 1977 a part of the farm owned by Daryl WITT.
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In May 1885 Peter DeCoursey, age 70, born Ohio was listed on the MN State census as a resident of Gull river, Cass Co., MN
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Peter DeCOURSEY, on 16 July 1890, made deposition for a dependent father's pension under the Act of June 27, 1890, as follows: "---Peter DeCOURSEY, aged 78 years, resident of the City of St. Cloud, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is the father of Edward DeCOURSEY, who enlisted under the name of Edward G. DeCOURSEY at Sparta, Wisconsin, on the 8 day of February, 1865 in Co. I, 50th Regiment, Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers, in the War of the Rebellion, who died at Leon, Monroe co., Minn. (sic.) on or about 14 day of January 1869, from the effects of Chronic Diarrhoea and exhaustion having contracted said disability in service incurred at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in June 1865. That said son left neither widow nor child under sixteen years of age, surviving. That declarant was married to the mother of said son on the 5th day of July 1845 at Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, by J.C. Gillman and that she died on the 17 day of May 1881 at LaCrosse, Wisc.---". Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, was listed in the Minneapolis City Directories for 1893-1894 as residing at 20 S. 11th. He stated in his pension application that he "sold medicines for a living." Ron Feldhaus of Edina, MN had in his private bottle collection an old bottle embossed with "Dr. DeCOURSEY'S IRISH LINIMENT" on the front. The side panels of this bottle are embossed with "GILHOOLEY" and "ST. PAUL, MINN." The bottle is aqua with a single sq. bnd. lip with embossed sunken panels. It measures 6-3/16" H. x 1-3/16" D. X 2-1/16" W. There are at least two versions of this bottle. Two of the similar bottles are in the possession of William DeCoursey, New Brighton, MN. and one owned by Lorrie DeCoursey of California.
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On 26 Oct 1893, Peter DeCOURSEY again made deposition at Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN for purpose of obtaining a pension as follows: "I am the identical Peter DeCOURCY the applicant for pension as the dependent father of Edward G. DeCOURCY who served as a private in Co.I, 50 Wisc. Infantry and who died Jan. 14, 1869 from the result of chronic diarrhea contracted while in line of duty in the above stated service. I am 82 years of age and I have no settled occupation, any thing I can get to do to make a living. On July 5, 1845 the mother of Edward DeCOURCY and myself were married at Ixonia, Jefferson co., Wisconsin by Elder George Shumway. I had been married before and my former wife was dead, but the mother of Edward DeCOURCY had never been married. He enlisted February 8, 1865. Before he enlisted he was strong and nearly perfectly healthy and weighed 175 lbs. I saw him when he left Madison, Wisconsin to go to Jefferson Barricks. and he was then well and hearty. They staid at Jefferson Barricks for about a week and then went to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He had not been there more than three weeks when he began to fail and lose his appetite. He wrote and told me that he had chronic diarrhoea. This was about May 1865. I have none of the letters now. He staid Fort Leavenworth until August 1, 1865 when he was discharged. From the time he first took sick in May until he was discharged he was sick all the time. I sent him money to get him food that he could eat for he could not eat the hardtack. He was in the hospital all of July. Robert RAY waited upon him while he was sick. I don't know where he lives now. He moved to the Island of Lopez in the Pacific Ocean. Also William H. COMSTOCK of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota was also with him. Also Henry Robertson who now lives in Owatonna, Steele co., Minnesota. When my son was discharged, he was placed in a boat and taken to the Mississippi River and there put in another boat and sent to LaCrosse, Wisconsin and there I met him. He was first able to travel, but he was not able to leave the house for about two or three weeks. I did not know the surgeon who treated him in the army. Chronic diarrhoea was the cause of his sickness and all the time that he lived after discharge he never did as much as four days work all put together. When he came out of the army, he weight 120 lb., and he never got above 135 lb. after he came home, and for the last year of his life he was just skin and bones. He had diarrhoea all the time after he came home until he died. The diarrhoea eventually --- him into quick consumption and the last few days of his life the pain came up his back and settled in his head. He was conscious up to the time he died. He was confined to his bed for about two months duration. --- QUESTION: Name some of the persons who would know his condition from his discharge to his death. ANSWER: Only those whose testimony appears in the case; but some of the neighbors are John COSGNIFF and Barney SNOW of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. The attending physician was Dr. CHAMBERLAIN of LaCrosse, Wisc. who is dead now, also Dr. G.W. MILLIGAN treated him some. He lives in Sparta, Wisc. if he is now alive. QUESTION: Please give me a schedule of the property owned by you. ANSWER: All I have is just what you see of me. I have no property of any kind either real or personal. There is no one who is under any obligation to support me, and I make my living by selling medicines---." Other depositions were taken in this case from Robert RAY and Hattie RAY, witnessed by Mrs. J.E. WALBRIDGE and H.J. BRANDNESS. See Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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The Minneapolis City Directory for 1895-96 lists Peter DeCOURCY, physician, residing at 332 E. 17th.
The Minneapolis City Directory for 1896 lists Peter DeCOURSEY, physician, residing at 429 NE 2nd St.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, born Ohio, died, 6 Apr 1897, at age 86, of apoplexy at City Hospital in Minneapolis, MN, and he is buried in Lakewood Cemetery, Row 17, grave 6 (South end). The grave was purchased by J.E. WALBRIDGE, a son-in-law. J.E. WALBRIDGE was the husband of Clara Belle (DeCOURCY) WALBRIDGE. They lived at 45 - S. 8th St. Peter's death certificate names his parents as Isaac and Mary DeCOURCY. Info. from death certificate and burial records.
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Y-DNA haplotype is "I1".
Dr. Peter DeCoursey (1816-1897) was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, son of Isaac and Salome "Sally" (Helmick) DeCoursey who were married in Stark Co., OH 21 Jan 1815.
Peter DeCoursey m. 1st 13 Oct 1836 in Medina Co., OH to Elizabeth Calbitzer. She probably was a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Catherine (WALTZ) CALBETZER (Colpetzer); and granddaughter of Peter and Eva (MILLIRON) WALTZ of Doylestown, Ohio. Her mother was a sister-in-law of Adam HELMICK (1788-1848) who married Christina WALTZ.
See: A ROSTER OF REVOLUTIONARY ANCESTORS OF THE INDIANA DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, v.1, p.667; D.A.R. #353661; Cuyahoga Portage Chapter DAR, SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO BIBLE RECORDS (Akron, 1972), p.187.
It is believed that this marriage ended in divorce shortly thereafter, and that Elizabeth married 2nd to Charles Hoover and moved to Ransom, Hillsboro Co., Michigan.
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A severe drought in eastern Ohio in the mid 1830's may have prompted the DECOURSEY's and others to seek new lands in the west. Prior to 1837, Isaac DECOURSEY and his family followed Timothy JOHNSON of Monteville, Medina Co., Ohio on an expedition to Jefferson County, Wisconsin. Peter DECOURSEY is listed as one of those who came to Johnson's Rapids, Jefferson Co., Wisconsin for the purpose of settling prior to 1837.
Ref: HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1879), p.336-407,442-443. Also John Henry Ott's JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1917), Vol.I, p.149,298.
When Timothy JOHNSON and the DECOURSEY's arrived in the vicinity of Watertown, Wisconsin, "the banks of the river were thickly fringed with a beautiful growth of cedars, the background being thickly wooded on the east side with stately oaks and on the east with a forest of maples, elm and ash." Elmer C. Kiessling, WATERTOWN REMEMBERED (1976), p.29.
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Peter DeCoursey married 2nd on 5 Jul 1846 at Ixonia, Jefferson Co., WI to Larissa Mills (1828-1881) by whom he had 8 children all born in Wisconsin.
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Peter DECOURSEY was elected Commissioner of Highways for Watertown, Wisconsin in 1848.
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On Aug 15, 1850, Peter DeCourcey, age 34, born Ohio, was a proprietor of a Tavern or Inn at Watertown, Wisconsin. Listed in his household were Lorica DeCORSEY, age 22, born NY; Edward DeCORSEY, age 3, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 62 b. NJ; and Amelia SCHOULTS, age 19. -- U.S. Census 1850 Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, p.76.
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In 1849, Crawford County, Wisconsin was divided. "In the division LaCrosse and Monroe Counties were at first one, bearing the name LaCROSSE County, with the little settlement at Prairie La Crosse its county seat and post office." Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
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The act creating Monroe County provided that it should constitute one town, Leon, and it provided for the election of three town supervisors on the first Tuesday of April 1854 who were also to serve as the board of county supervisors. R.J. CASSELMAN, Lloyd ANGLE, and Peter DeCOURSEY were elected as the town board of the town of Leon, and thereby became the first county board of supervisors of the county of Monroe. The first meeting of the county board was held, 11 April 1854, in the Globe Hotel." Journal of Proceedings of the Monroe County Board of Supervisors, v.1, pp.1-3; Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY (1912), p.68,522. MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN PICTORIAL HISTORY (1976), p.119. INVENTORY OF THE COUNTY ARCHIVES OF WISCONSIN #41 MONROE COUNTY, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society TIME CAPSULES (April 1976), v.1, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
- By 1855, one year after its organization, Monroe County, Wisconsin had an aggregate population of 2,407.
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In 1851 Peter DeCoursey moved from Watertown, WI to Leon, WI with his family and served as one of the three initial county commissioners for Monroe Co., WI which was formed out of LaCrosse Co. WI. Other early settlers at Leon, Wisconsin were Ambrose L. COMSTOCK, Robert RAY, Henry VANETTEN and A.H GILLILAND. Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1812), p.68,123,131,143,521-523.
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On 6 Aug 1854, John WELDON deeded Lot 6, 24 & 25 in block 2, Town of Bangor, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Peter DeCOURCY. Vol.4, p.303.
Peter and Isaac DeCOURSEY opened a store in the Village of Bangor, Wisconsin in 1855. See HISTORY OF LACROSSE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1881), p.724.
On 3 Mar 1859, Peter and Loricia DeCOURCY conveyed property in Sparta, Wisconsin from and back to William BENNETT. Monroe Co. Deeds Vol.8, p.26 & vol.9, p.121.
In 1859 Robert RAY purchased land in Sparta, Monroe Co., Wisc. He married Peter DeCoursey's niece, Harriet Comstock, dau. of Mary (DeCoursey) Comstock.
On 14 May 1859 Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY mortgaged Sec.27, S16, NR4W to P.M. CARPENTER. Monroe Co. Mortgages v.5, p.24.
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On 21 June 1860, Peter DeCOURCY, age 44, Farmer, born Ohio was a resident of the town of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Others in the household included: L. DeCOURCY, age 33, born NY; E.G. DeCOURCY age 14, born Wisconsin; Isaac DeCOURCY age 12, born WI; P. DeCOURCY age 10, born WI; Sarah DeCOURCY age 7, born WI; C.M. DeCOURCY age 5, born WI; J.F. DeCOURCY age 3, born WI; Clara DeCOURCY age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCOURCY age 67, born New Jersey; and J.D. CORNISH age 26, born Mich., farm laborer. 1860 Federal Census of Monroe Co., Wisconsin, v.1,p.61-62.
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On 17 Dec 1862, Peter & Isaac DeCOURCY mortgaged property in Monroe County, Wisconsin. Mortgage Book v.4, p.257-259.
- In 1866 Isaac DeCOURCY sold to Peter DeCOURCY property in sec.27, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Vol.19, p.88
Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY sold land in sec.13, twp.16, R6, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Andrew Wolfe, 30 Feb 1867. Vol.31, p.387.
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Peter's granddaughter, Charlotte (DeCourcy) Thrush (1896-1980) stated in an interview in 1977 that she was told by her father, Issac Henry DeCourcy, that her grandfather, Peter DeCoursey (1816), had medical knowledge and was able to saved her father's (Isaac DeCoursey's) leg from amputation after a farm machinery accident. It is probable that Peter had no formal medical training, but learned veterinarian medicine from his occupation of farming and served as a general medical practitioner in the small town of Leon. In Peter's dependant parents pension papers filed in 1890 on the basis of his deceased son's (Edward G. DeCourcey's) Civil War service, he states that he "sells medicines for a living". Later, his occupation is listed as "physician in the 1893 thru 1895 Minneapolis City directories.
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Peter's son, Isaac Henry DeCourcey (1848-1909) married 1st to Anna Emma C. Barney in June 1871 at "Peddlers Grove" (Alma City, MN near Waseca) while accompanying his father, Peter, selling medicine from a horse drawn wagon. See picture of the Dr. DeCoursey Liniment bottle dating to about 1870.
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July 30, 1870. Peter DeCOURSEY, age 54, Farmer, born Ohio, was a resident of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. Others in the household included: Lourisa DeCOURSEY, age 43, born NY; Peter DeCOURSEY, Jr., age 20, born WI; John DeCOURSEY, age 13, born WI; Clara DeCOURSEY, age 12, born WI; and Easu JOHNSON, age 26, born Norway. U.S. 1870 Federal Census, Monroe Co., WI v.1,p.133.
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On 24 June 1873, Peter DeCOURCY sold his property in sec.27, T.16, R4 to George W. FOX. Monroe Co., Wisc. Deeds v.30, p.107.
In 1873 Peter DeCOURCY moved his family to New Hartford, Winona Co., Minnesota. In Minnesota, he established himself in the bottling and selling of patent medicines throughout Southern Minnesota and elsewhere. At least six original specimens of "DR. DECOURSEY'S LINIMENT" bottles are known to be in existence as of 2014.
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The 1875 State census of New Hartford, Winona Co., MN lists the following:
Household #143
DECOURSEY, P., age 59, b. Ohio
DECOURSEY, Lourisa, age 43,b. NY
DECOURSEY, John C. F., age 18, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Clara Belle, age 17, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Isaac, age 81, b. NJ
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In 1876 Peter DeCOURCY was assessed on 114 acres in sec.18 of New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota in.
In 1877 and 1878 there was a record in New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., Minnesota, of money paid to Peter DeCOURCY for road work.
On 15 January 1878, Peter DeCOURCEY mortgaged property in sec.18, New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota. Another mortgage was taken out 15 August 1878.
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The 1880 Federal census of New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., MN lists:
DeCORSA, P., age 68, born Ohio;
DeCORSA, Louisa, wife, age 52, born NY;
DeCORSA, Belle, dau., age 22, b. Wisc.
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Peter's wife, Loricia (MILLS) DeCOURSEY died 17 May 1881.
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Sometime before 1885 Peter DeCOURCY sold his land in New Hartford, MN to Wenzel BLUMENTRITT. This land was in 1977 a part of the farm owned by Daryl WITT.
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In May 1885 Peter DeCoursey, age 70, born Ohio was listed on the MN State census as a resident of Gull river, Cass Co., MN
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Peter DeCOURSEY, on 16 July 1890, made deposition for a dependent father's pension under the Act of June 27, 1890, as follows: "---Peter DeCOURSEY, aged 78 years, resident of the City of St. Cloud, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is the father of Edward DeCOURSEY, who enlisted under the name of Edward G. DeCOURSEY at Sparta, Wisconsin, on the 8 day of February, 1865 in Co. I, 50th Regiment, Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers, in the War of the Rebellion, who died at Leon, Monroe co., Minn. (sic.) on or about 14 day of January 1869, from the effects of Chronic Diarrhoea and exhaustion having contracted said disability in service incurred at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in June 1865. That said son left neither widow nor child under sixteen years of age, surviving. That declarant was married to the mother of said son on the 5th day of July 1845 at Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, by J.C. Gillman and that she died on the 17 day of May 1881 at LaCrosse, Wisc.---". Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, was listed in the Minneapolis City Directories for 1893-1894 as residing at 20 S. 11th. He stated in his pension application that he "sold medicines for a living." Ron Feldhaus of Edina, MN had in his private bottle collection an old bottle embossed with "Dr. DeCOURSEY'S IRISH LINIMENT" on the front. The side panels of this bottle are embossed with "GILHOOLEY" and "ST. PAUL, MINN." The bottle is aqua with a single sq. bnd. lip with embossed sunken panels. It measures 6-3/16" H. x 1-3/16" D. X 2-1/16" W. There are at least two versions of this bottle. Two of the similar bottles are in the possession of William DeCoursey, New Brighton, MN. and one owned by Lorrie DeCoursey of California.
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On 26 Oct 1893, Peter DeCOURSEY again made deposition at Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN for purpose of obtaining a pension as follows: "I am the identical Peter DeCOURCY the applicant for pension as the dependent father of Edward G. DeCOURCY who served as a private in Co.I, 50 Wisc. Infantry and who died Jan. 14, 1869 from the result of chronic diarrhea contracted while in line of duty in the above stated service. I am 82 years of age and I have no settled occupation, any thing I can get to do to make a living. On July 5, 1845 the mother of Edward DeCOURCY and myself were married at Ixonia, Jefferson co., Wisconsin by Elder George Shumway. I had been married before and my former wife was dead, but the mother of Edward DeCOURCY had never been married. He enlisted February 8, 1865. Before he enlisted he was strong and nearly perfectly healthy and weighed 175 lbs. I saw him when he left Madison, Wisconsin to go to Jefferson Barricks. and he was then well and hearty. They staid at Jefferson Barricks for about a week and then went to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He had not been there more than three weeks when he began to fail and lose his appetite. He wrote and told me that he had chronic diarrhoea. This was about May 1865. I have none of the letters now. He staid Fort Leavenworth until August 1, 1865 when he was discharged. From the time he first took sick in May until he was discharged he was sick all the time. I sent him money to get him food that he could eat for he could not eat the hardtack. He was in the hospital all of July. Robert RAY waited upon him while he was sick. I don't know where he lives now. He moved to the Island of Lopez in the Pacific Ocean. Also William H. COMSTOCK of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota was also with him. Also Henry Robertson who now lives in Owatonna, Steele co., Minnesota. When my son was discharged, he was placed in a boat and taken to the Mississippi River and there put in another boat and sent to LaCrosse, Wisconsin and there I met him. He was first able to travel, but he was not able to leave the house for about two or three weeks. I did not know the surgeon who treated him in the army. Chronic diarrhoea was the cause of his sickness and all the time that he lived after discharge he never did as much as four days work all put together. When he came out of the army, he weight 120 lb., and he never got above 135 lb. after he came home, and for the last year of his life he was just skin and bones. He had diarrhoea all the time after he came home until he died. The diarrhoea eventually --- him into quick consumption and the last few days of his life the pain came up his back and settled in his head. He was conscious up to the time he died. He was confined to his bed for about two months duration. --- QUESTION: Name some of the persons who would know his condition from his discharge to his death. ANSWER: Only those whose testimony appears in the case; but some of the neighbors are John COSGNIFF and Barney SNOW of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. The attending physician was Dr. CHAMBERLAIN of LaCrosse, Wisc. who is dead now, also Dr. G.W. MILLIGAN treated him some. He lives in Sparta, Wisc. if he is now alive. QUESTION: Please give me a schedule of the property owned by you. ANSWER: All I have is just what you see of me. I have no property of any kind either real or personal. There is no one who is under any obligation to support me, and I make my living by selling medicines---." Other depositions were taken in this case from Robert RAY and Hattie RAY, witnessed by Mrs. J.E. WALBRIDGE and H.J. BRANDNESS. See Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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The Minneapolis City Directory for 1895-96 lists Peter DeCOURCY, physician, residing at 332 E. 17th.
The Minneapolis City Directory for 1896 lists Peter DeCOURSEY, physician, residing at 429 NE 2nd St.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, born Ohio, died, 6 Apr 1897, at age 86, of apoplexy at City Hospital in Minneapolis, MN, and he is buried in Lakewood Cemetery, Row 17, grave 6 (South end). The grave was purchased by J.E. WALBRIDGE, a son-in-law. J.E. WALBRIDGE was the husband of Clara Belle (DeCOURCY) WALBRIDGE. They lived at 45 - S. 8th St. Peter's death certificate names his parents as Isaac and Mary DeCOURCY. Info. from death certificate and burial records.
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Dr. Peter DeCoursey (1816-1897) was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, son of Isaac and Salome "Sally" (Helmick) DeCoursey who were married in Stark Co., OH 21 Jan 1815.
Peter DeCoursey m. 1st 13 Oct 1836 in Medina Co., OH to Elizabeth Calbitzer. She probably was a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Catherine (WALTZ) CALBETZER (Colpetzer); and granddaughter of Peter and Eva (MILLIRON) WALTZ of Doylestown, Ohio. Her mother was a sister-in-law of Adam HELMICK (1788-1848) who married Christina WALTZ.
See: A ROSTER OF REVOLUTIONARY ANCESTORS OF THE INDIANA DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, v.1, p.667; D.A.R. #353661; Cuyahoga Portage Chapter DAR, SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO BIBLE RECORDS (Akron, 1972), p.187.
It is believed that this marriage ended in divorce shortly thereafter, and that Elizabeth married 2nd to Charles Hoover and moved to Ransom, Hillsboro Co., Michigan.
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A severe drought in eastern Ohio in the mid 1830's may have prompted the DECOURSEY's and others to seek new lands in the west. Prior to 1837, Isaac DECOURSEY and his family followed Timothy JOHNSON of Monteville, Medina Co., Ohio on an expedition to Jefferson County, Wisconsin. Peter DECOURSEY is listed as one of those who came to Johnson's Rapids, Jefferson Co., Wisconsin for the purpose of settling prior to 1837.
Ref: HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1879), p.336-407,442-443. Also John Henry Ott's JEFFERSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1917), Vol.I, p.149,298.
When Timothy JOHNSON and the DECOURSEY's arrived in the vicinity of Watertown, Wisconsin, "the banks of the river were thickly fringed with a beautiful growth of cedars, the background being thickly wooded on the east side with stately oaks and on the east with a forest of maples, elm and ash." Elmer C. Kiessling, WATERTOWN REMEMBERED (1976), p.29.
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Peter DeCoursey married 2nd on 5 Jul 1846 at Ixonia, Jefferson Co., WI to Larissa Mills (1828-1881) by whom he had 8 children all born in Wisconsin.
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Peter DECOURSEY was elected Commissioner of Highways for Watertown, Wisconsin in 1848.
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On Aug 15, 1850, Peter DeCourcey, age 34, born Ohio, was a proprietor of a Tavern or Inn at Watertown, Wisconsin. Listed in his household were Lorica DeCORSEY, age 22, born NY; Edward DeCORSEY, age 3, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCORSEY, age 62 b. NJ; and Amelia SCHOULTS, age 19. -- U.S. Census 1850 Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, p.76.
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In 1849, Crawford County, Wisconsin was divided. "In the division LaCrosse and Monroe Counties were at first one, bearing the name LaCROSSE County, with the little settlement at Prairie La Crosse its county seat and post office." Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
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The act creating Monroe County provided that it should constitute one town, Leon, and it provided for the election of three town supervisors on the first Tuesday of April 1854 who were also to serve as the board of county supervisors. R.J. CASSELMAN, Lloyd ANGLE, and Peter DeCOURSEY were elected as the town board of the town of Leon, and thereby became the first county board of supervisors of the county of Monroe. The first meeting of the county board was held, 11 April 1854, in the Globe Hotel." Journal of Proceedings of the Monroe County Board of Supervisors, v.1, pp.1-3; Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY (1912), p.68,522. MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN PICTORIAL HISTORY (1976), p.119. INVENTORY OF THE COUNTY ARCHIVES OF WISCONSIN #41 MONROE COUNTY, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society TIME CAPSULES (April 1976), v.1, p.2; Monroe County Historical Society, THE BEGINNING, MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1974).
- By 1855, one year after its organization, Monroe County, Wisconsin had an aggregate population of 2,407.
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In 1851 Peter DeCoursey moved from Watertown, WI to Leon, WI with his family and served as one of the three initial county commissioners for Monroe Co., WI which was formed out of LaCrosse Co. WI. Other early settlers at Leon, Wisconsin were Ambrose L. COMSTOCK, Robert RAY, Henry VANETTEN and A.H GILLILAND. Randolph Richards, HISTORY OF MONROE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1812), p.68,123,131,143,521-523.
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On 6 Aug 1854, John WELDON deeded Lot 6, 24 & 25 in block 2, Town of Bangor, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Peter DeCOURCY. Vol.4, p.303.
Peter and Isaac DeCOURSEY opened a store in the Village of Bangor, Wisconsin in 1855. See HISTORY OF LACROSSE COUNTY, WISCONSIN (1881), p.724.
On 3 Mar 1859, Peter and Loricia DeCOURCY conveyed property in Sparta, Wisconsin from and back to William BENNETT. Monroe Co. Deeds Vol.8, p.26 & vol.9, p.121.
In 1859 Robert RAY purchased land in Sparta, Monroe Co., Wisc. He married Peter DeCoursey's niece, Harriet Comstock, dau. of Mary (DeCoursey) Comstock.
On 14 May 1859 Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY mortgaged Sec.27, S16, NR4W to P.M. CARPENTER. Monroe Co. Mortgages v.5, p.24.
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On 21 June 1860, Peter DeCOURCY, age 44, Farmer, born Ohio was a resident of the town of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Others in the household included: L. DeCOURCY, age 33, born NY; E.G. DeCOURCY age 14, born Wisconsin; Isaac DeCOURCY age 12, born WI; P. DeCOURCY age 10, born WI; Sarah DeCOURCY age 7, born WI; C.M. DeCOURCY age 5, born WI; J.F. DeCOURCY age 3, born WI; Clara DeCOURCY age 2, born WI; Isaac DeCOURCY age 67, born New Jersey; and J.D. CORNISH age 26, born Mich., farm laborer. 1860 Federal Census of Monroe Co., Wisconsin, v.1,p.61-62.
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On 17 Dec 1862, Peter & Isaac DeCOURCY mortgaged property in Monroe County, Wisconsin. Mortgage Book v.4, p.257-259.
- In 1866 Isaac DeCOURCY sold to Peter DeCOURCY property in sec.27, Monroe Co., Wisconsin. Vol.19, p.88
Isaac and Peter DeCOURCY sold land in sec.13, twp.16, R6, LaCrosse Co., Wisconsin to Andrew Wolfe, 30 Feb 1867. Vol.31, p.387.
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Peter's granddaughter, Charlotte (DeCourcy) Thrush (1896-1980) stated in an interview in 1977 that she was told by her father, Issac Henry DeCourcy, that her grandfather, Peter DeCoursey (1816), had medical knowledge and was able to saved her father's (Isaac DeCoursey's) leg from amputation after a farm machinery accident. It is probable that Peter had no formal medical training, but learned veterinarian medicine from his occupation of farming and served as a general medical practitioner in the small town of Leon. In Peter's dependant parents pension papers filed in 1890 on the basis of his deceased son's (Edward G. DeCourcey's) Civil War service, he states that he "sells medicines for a living". Later, his occupation is listed as "physician in the 1893 thru 1895 Minneapolis City directories.
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Peter's son, Isaac Henry DeCourcey (1848-1909) married 1st to Anna Emma C. Barney in June 1871 at "Peddlers Grove" (Alma City, MN near Waseca) while accompanying his father, Peter, selling medicine from a horse drawn wagon. See picture of the Dr. DeCoursey Liniment bottle dating to about 1870.
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July 30, 1870. Peter DeCOURSEY, age 54, Farmer, born Ohio, was a resident of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. Others in the household included: Lourisa DeCOURSEY, age 43, born NY; Peter DeCOURSEY, Jr., age 20, born WI; John DeCOURSEY, age 13, born WI; Clara DeCOURSEY, age 12, born WI; and Easu JOHNSON, age 26, born Norway. U.S. 1870 Federal Census, Monroe Co., WI v.1,p.133.
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On 24 June 1873, Peter DeCOURCY sold his property in sec.27, T.16, R4 to George W. FOX. Monroe Co., Wisc. Deeds v.30, p.107.
In 1873 Peter DeCOURCY moved his family to New Hartford, Winona Co., Minnesota. In Minnesota, he established himself in the bottling and selling of patent medicines throughout Southern Minnesota and elsewhere. At least six original specimens of "DR. DECOURSEY'S LINIMENT" bottles are known to be in existence as of 2014.
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The 1875 State census of New Hartford, Winona Co., MN lists the following:
Household #143
DECOURSEY, P., age 59, b. Ohio
DECOURSEY, Lourisa, age 43,b. NY
DECOURSEY, John C. F., age 18, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Clara Belle, age 17, b. Wisc.
DECOURSEY, Isaac, age 81, b. NJ
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In 1876 Peter DeCOURCY was assessed on 114 acres in sec.18 of New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota in.
In 1877 and 1878 there was a record in New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., Minnesota, of money paid to Peter DeCOURCY for road work.
On 15 January 1878, Peter DeCOURCEY mortgaged property in sec.18, New Hartford twp., Winona Co., Minnesota. Another mortgage was taken out 15 August 1878.
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The 1880 Federal census of New Hartford Twp., Winona Co., MN lists:
DeCORSA, P., age 68, born Ohio;
DeCORSA, Louisa, wife, age 52, born NY;
DeCORSA, Belle, dau., age 22, b. Wisc.
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Peter's wife, Loricia (MILLS) DeCOURSEY died 17 May 1881.
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Sometime before 1885 Peter DeCOURCY sold his land in New Hartford, MN to Wenzel BLUMENTRITT. This land was in 1977 a part of the farm owned by Daryl WITT.
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In May 1885 Peter DeCoursey, age 70, born Ohio was listed on the MN State census as a resident of Gull river, Cass Co., MN
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Peter DeCOURSEY, on 16 July 1890, made deposition for a dependent father's pension under the Act of June 27, 1890, as follows: "---Peter DeCOURSEY, aged 78 years, resident of the City of St. Cloud, County of Stearns, State of Minnesota, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he is the father of Edward DeCOURSEY, who enlisted under the name of Edward G. DeCOURSEY at Sparta, Wisconsin, on the 8 day of February, 1865 in Co. I, 50th Regiment, Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers, in the War of the Rebellion, who died at Leon, Monroe co., Minn. (sic.) on or about 14 day of January 1869, from the effects of Chronic Diarrhoea and exhaustion having contracted said disability in service incurred at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in June 1865. That said son left neither widow nor child under sixteen years of age, surviving. That declarant was married to the mother of said son on the 5th day of July 1845 at Watertown, Jefferson co., Wisconsin, by J.C. Gillman and that she died on the 17 day of May 1881 at LaCrosse, Wisc.---". Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, was listed in the Minneapolis City Directories for 1893-1894 as residing at 20 S. 11th. He stated in his pension application that he "sold medicines for a living." Ron Feldhaus of Edina, MN had in his private bottle collection an old bottle embossed with "Dr. DeCOURSEY'S IRISH LINIMENT" on the front. The side panels of this bottle are embossed with "GILHOOLEY" and "ST. PAUL, MINN." The bottle is aqua with a single sq. bnd. lip with embossed sunken panels. It measures 6-3/16" H. x 1-3/16" D. X 2-1/16" W. There are at least two versions of this bottle. Two of the similar bottles are in the possession of William DeCoursey, New Brighton, MN. and one owned by Lorrie DeCoursey of California.
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On 26 Oct 1893, Peter DeCOURSEY again made deposition at Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN for purpose of obtaining a pension as follows: "I am the identical Peter DeCOURCY the applicant for pension as the dependent father of Edward G. DeCOURCY who served as a private in Co.I, 50 Wisc. Infantry and who died Jan. 14, 1869 from the result of chronic diarrhea contracted while in line of duty in the above stated service. I am 82 years of age and I have no settled occupation, any thing I can get to do to make a living. On July 5, 1845 the mother of Edward DeCOURCY and myself were married at Ixonia, Jefferson co., Wisconsin by Elder George Shumway. I had been married before and my former wife was dead, but the mother of Edward DeCOURCY had never been married. He enlisted February 8, 1865. Before he enlisted he was strong and nearly perfectly healthy and weighed 175 lbs. I saw him when he left Madison, Wisconsin to go to Jefferson Barricks. and he was then well and hearty. They staid at Jefferson Barricks for about a week and then went to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He had not been there more than three weeks when he began to fail and lose his appetite. He wrote and told me that he had chronic diarrhoea. This was about May 1865. I have none of the letters now. He staid Fort Leavenworth until August 1, 1865 when he was discharged. From the time he first took sick in May until he was discharged he was sick all the time. I sent him money to get him food that he could eat for he could not eat the hardtack. He was in the hospital all of July. Robert RAY waited upon him while he was sick. I don't know where he lives now. He moved to the Island of Lopez in the Pacific Ocean. Also William H. COMSTOCK of Faribault, Rice County, Minnesota was also with him. Also Henry Robertson who now lives in Owatonna, Steele co., Minnesota. When my son was discharged, he was placed in a boat and taken to the Mississippi River and there put in another boat and sent to LaCrosse, Wisconsin and there I met him. He was first able to travel, but he was not able to leave the house for about two or three weeks. I did not know the surgeon who treated him in the army. Chronic diarrhoea was the cause of his sickness and all the time that he lived after discharge he never did as much as four days work all put together. When he came out of the army, he weight 120 lb., and he never got above 135 lb. after he came home, and for the last year of his life he was just skin and bones. He had diarrhoea all the time after he came home until he died. The diarrhoea eventually --- him into quick consumption and the last few days of his life the pain came up his back and settled in his head. He was conscious up to the time he died. He was confined to his bed for about two months duration. --- QUESTION: Name some of the persons who would know his condition from his discharge to his death. ANSWER: Only those whose testimony appears in the case; but some of the neighbors are John COSGNIFF and Barney SNOW of Leon, Monroe Co., Wisc. The attending physician was Dr. CHAMBERLAIN of LaCrosse, Wisc. who is dead now, also Dr. G.W. MILLIGAN treated him some. He lives in Sparta, Wisc. if he is now alive. QUESTION: Please give me a schedule of the property owned by you. ANSWER: All I have is just what you see of me. I have no property of any kind either real or personal. There is no one who is under any obligation to support me, and I make my living by selling medicines---." Other depositions were taken in this case from Robert RAY and Hattie RAY, witnessed by Mrs. J.E. WALBRIDGE and H.J. BRANDNESS. See Natl. Archives Pension File FA-P441227.
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The Minneapolis City Directory for 1895-96 lists Peter DeCOURCY, physician, residing at 332 E. 17th.
The Minneapolis City Directory for 1896 lists Peter DeCOURSEY, physician, residing at 429 NE 2nd St.
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Peter DeCOURCY, physician, born Ohio, died, 6 Apr 1897, at age 86, of apoplexy at City Hospital in Minneapolis, MN, and he is buried in Lakewood Cemetery, Row 17, grave 6 (South end). The grave was purchased by J.E. WALBRIDGE, a son-in-law. J.E. WALBRIDGE was the husband of Clara Belle (DeCOURCY) WALBRIDGE. They lived at 45 - S. 8th St. Peter's death certificate names his parents as Isaac and Mary DeCOURCY. Info. from death certificate and burial records.
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