Father: Abraham Resseguie, b.~1748 Ridgefield, Fairfield Co., CT. d.1826 Ossining, NY.
Mother: Helena "Lanah" Davids, b.1761 Philipsburg, NY., d.19-Dec-1851 NY.
---
Husband of Anna [Surname?], b.???? d.10-Mar-1880 San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA.
---
CHILDREN:
i. Eleanor Resseguie, b.~1825 d.24-Jul-1862, m. [Name?] Edwards.
---
Samuel RESSEGUIE (Resique), 1800-1855.
1835, "Pike River" aka "Pike Creek" aka "Pike".
(Kenosha, Kenosha Co., Wisconsin)
--------------------------------------------
"From the Resseguie Book, by Morris"
Samuel Resseguie, born in 1800, died in San Francisco Cal., Jan. 26, 1855. He married Anna who died in San Francisco, March 10, 1880. Mr. Resseguie left Ridgefield, Conn. his native place, and settled first in Susquehanna County, Pa., and afterward in Kenosha, Wis. From the History of Kenosha County, the following extract is taken:
"On the 7th of July 1835, Mr. Samuel Resseguie arrived in Kenosha, and to use a squatter's phrase, "jumped the island". Mr. Resseguie brought with him a Mr. John Noble and a number of brothers by the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place, but the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance was finally amicably settled, and Mr. Resseguie retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or some other compromise. After camping on the island for about two weeks, Mr. Resseguie commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although this humble public house was not equal to the Grant House, it served its purpose well. But few men knew how to cater to the appetites of their guests better than Resseguie, his table was provisioned with the best wild game the surrounding country could furnish, and the economy with which he was accustomed, to stow away his numerous guests in a given area in his little garret, was truly astonishing. His success was so unexpectedly great in the line of tavern keeping, that he concluded to enlarge his business accordingly - in the following month, he opened a store in an adjoining cabin, under the firm name of, Resseguie & Noble."
He subsequently emigrated to California, settled in San Francisco, and at the time of his death owned the premises known as, No. 4 Wetmore Place. By his will, his property was divided equally between his wife and his daughter Eleanor Edwards. Mrs. Resseguie died at the house in Wetmore Place, leaving a will by which her house and furniture was devised to her granddaughter, Mrs. Anna R. Smith of Glen Rock, Nevada, and the residue of the estate to Mrs. Smith's daughter, Eleanor Galvin.
Note: Eleanor, b. about 1825, d.July 24, 1862, m. Edwards.
SOURCE: The Resseguie family: A historical and genealogical record of Alexander Resseguie...", by Morris, pages 64, 65.
--------------------------------------------
"The Pike Creek Colony"
Excerpts from page 334:
As has already been stated the Western Emigration Company fixed upon its location at Pike Creek. The terms "Pike Creek" and "Pike River" are used to designate two entirely distinct localities. The choice of the Company was made in June 1835. As soon as the news reached Oswego County, immediate preparations were made by stockholders to emigrate to the newly selected home. About fifteen families, mostly from the town of Hannibal, came on during the summer and fall of 1835. A part of these however, were not members of the Company, and on their arrival, made claims on land in the vicinity of Pike Creek, for the purpose of pursuing the business of farming. Nine families members of the Company settled at Pike Creek: viz, David Doolittle, Rev. Jason Lothrop, Waters Towslee, J.G. Wilson, Hudson Bacon, David Crossit, Amos Grattan, Samuel Resique, and Michael Van De Bogart. These, with the members of their households, numbered thirty-two persons in all, and comprised the entire settlement during the winter of 1835-36. Their habitations were rude cabins, built of logs, and covered with bark. N.R. Allen and John Bullen erected a framed building in the fall of 1835, being the first frame in the place. It was not completed until 1836, and was located on the lake shore near where the south pier of the harbor was subsequently built.
--------------------------------------------
"The Resique War"
Excerpts from pages 337 and 338:
The early inhabitants of Pike Creek were not indifferent to religious and educational privileges. Through the efforts of Rev. Jason Lothrop, a school was established in the fall or early winter of 1835, and maintained throughout the winter. A number of families residing on the prairies in the vicinity availed themselves of the opportunity to send their children to school. About this time also, religious meetings were held occasionally. Rev. Abner Barlow preached the first sermon in the house of Waters Towslee. A temperance society was also organized, and nearly all the inhabitants of village and country became members.
The residents of Pike Creek were not however permitted to enjoy quiet in their wilderness home. Scarcely were the first settlers comfortably lodged in their cabins, before they were annoyed by intruders upon their rights. The country at that period was traversed in almost every direction by adventurers and speculators some seeking homes for their families, others intent only on money-making. Many exciting events transpired among them, being the Resique war. This controversey began in August 1835, and ended in 1836 ,and was the source of much disturbance. The origin of the war was as follows:
The origin of the war was as follows. In the month of July, 1835, two men: Samuel Resique and John Noble, left Chicago on an expedition to make claims in advantageous localities with the view of selling them on speculation. They followed the lake shore north from Chicago, until they unexpectedly came upon the settlement of the Emigration Company. The usual marks such as furrows made through the woods and openings by a plow indicated that the lands had been already claimed. The prospect of making any claim there appeared at first to be rather dubious, still the place had many natural attractions, and they lingered around a couple of days to enjoy the scenery. Washington Island was then in its primitive glory. The grove of young oaks upon it had never been disturbed by the settler's axe. Attracted by its beauty, the men passed over to obtain a closer view of the pleasing spot. The speculators were experienced squatters, and their keen perceptions soon convinced them that the island had no legal claimant. The necessary marks had been omitted. Resique and Noble proceeded at once to lay claim to the tract, by erecting an encampment. Having made their claim cabin, Resique returned to Chicago for a supply of provisions and other necessaries, while Noble retained possession of the island. As soon as the settlers realized what the men were about, Noble was ordered to leave the island. This he resolutely refused to do. It was next proposed to eject him forcibly, but the more discreet refused to participate in such a scheme. It was finally concluded to proceed against Noble by a sort of technical movement. Accordingly, on the morning of the 25th of July, six men armed with axes were seen crossing over in a boat toward the island. Noble beheld this formidable force advance and was overwhelmed, in conjecture as to its probable intent. Upon landing on the island, instead of offering him any molestation, the men immediately began cutting down trees and brush, and commenced building a fence. They continued their labors until they had entirely inclosed one acre or more, leaving Noble and his domicile in the center thereof. Noble maintained his position. In a few days Resique returned from Chicago with a good supply of provisions and several laboring men. The fence aforesaid, which at first appeared so formidable, soon began to disappear piecemeal, until it was gone entirely. The squatters kept possession of the island, with only occasional skirmishes, until the summer of 1836, when the contest was renewed with manifestations of hostility, which for a time, threatened the most serious consequences. Judge William Bullen attempted to take possession of that portion of the island lying in the northeast quarter of Section 31, by virtue of a claim originally made by an agent of the Western Emigration Company. Resique marshaled a force to maintain his own position. For several days, armed men were employed and the most warlike spirit was manifested on both sides. The dispute was finally settled by compromise, and Judge Bullen entered upon the peaceful occupation of a portion of the island.
It is proper to remark that during some two or three years after the first locations were made at Pike Creek, Washington Island which covered an area of about thirty acres, was regarded the most valuable portion of the projected town site. It was believed it was destined to become the chief commercial point, and that every foot of its surface would eventually be as precious as gold. It is said that Mr Garrett, a capitalist of Chicago, in the fall of 1835, offered $7,500 for a good claim to the property. Other capitalists and speculators made liberal offers for this now almost deserted spot. Next to the island, that portion of the town lying north of the creek, was held to be the most valuable. For several years, the lands on the south side of the creek were not esteemed very desirable.
--------------------------------------------
"History of Kenosha"
Excerpts from pages 499 and 500:
The harbor at Kenosha, as is known to all who have visited the place, lies in the form of a crescent having two outlets into the lake, one distant about three fourths of a mile from the other. The harbor also receives a small tributary from the northwest, called Pike Creek. The estuary which forms the principal harbor, surrounds a piece of land on all sides, except on the east, and on the east, the land borders on the lake, thus forming an island. This island had not escaped the attention of the Company in establishing the limits of their claims.
On Monday the 6th day of July, Mr. Builen commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, about fifty rods north of the northern outlet of the harbor. In 1836, this building with a small piece of land adjoining passed into the hands of James R. Beard, who then commenced manufacturing brick. The log house after being occupied for a period of about twelve years was supplanted by one of greater durability and pretension.
On the 7th day of July, Mr. Samuel Resique [sic] {Resseguie} arrived at Kenosha, and to use a "squatter" phrase, "jumped the island". Mr Resique brought with him a number of brothers of the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place. But the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance, was finally amicably settled, and Mr Resique retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or by some other compromise. After camping upon the island for about two weeks, Mr Resique commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although the accommodations that a public house is supposed to hold forth were not in much requisition at that early day, yet the Resique House became after a time, quite noted as a public inn.
About the time that Mr Resique jumped the island, Mr. Gardner Wilson commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, opposite the north end of the island. This was the third building put up. This building was occupied several years by Mr. Wilson, when he moved back East. The last vestige of the Wilson house, and also of the Resique house has long since disappeared. Not a stone a piece of wood or an indentation of the soil marks the former foundations of these buildings, once so famous in the history of the place.
Mr Bullen, on behalf of the company which he represented, commenced putting-up a log house on the south side of the harbor, about the middle of July. This was the first building put up on that side of the harbor, and it stood on what is laid-down in the city map, at the present time, as Lot 1, Block 4, in the First Ward. The building was put-up for the purpose of holding the claim. A day or two after this building was commenced, Mr. Timothy Woodbridge commenced putting up a small log shanty a few rods south, and on what is now called Block 5, for the purpose of jumping the claim. He finished his building, but abandoned any pretension to the claim.
In the latter part of July, Mr. Bacon put up a log house near his present residence, on Block 80 in the Second Ward, and on the 29th of July, Mr. Jonathan Pierce commenced hewing the timber for the first frame building, but after the frame had been completed, owing to some apprehensions that a claim the company had made about one mile northwest would be jumped, the timbers were transferred to that claim, and put up.
The place was destined however not to be long without a frame building, and accordingly, another building was commenced in the first part of August, which was put up on the lake shore on the south side of the harbor. This building stood on what is now called Lot 4, Block 4, in the First Ward. It was built by Mr. John Bullen, and was used by him for a store, and was the first establishment of the kind in the place.
The first cargo of any kind that ever landed at Kenosha arrived on the 10th day of July, 1835. It consisted of 50,000 feet of lumber. The lumber had been purchased at Sheboygan for Mr. Bullen at a cost of $20 per thousand. It was thrown into the lake and floated ashore in rafts. The next arrival by lake at Kenosha, was a part of a cargo of merchandise, also for Mr. Bullen. They arrived in August, were shipped by way of Oswego and the lakes, and date the opening of the first mercantile establishment in Kenosha.
--------------------------------------------
"First Fourth of July"
Excerpt from page 501:
An old settler relates how the first Fourth of July celebration ever held in old Racine County passed off in Southport. It was in the year 1836, and the people assembled until nearly all the population of the region was upon the ground. Rev. Jason Lothrop was chosen orator. Among the delegations was one from Pleasant Prairie, which consisted of men women and children to a considerable number who came riding on an immense wagon drawn by twenty yoke of oxen. Dinner was served on the bank of the lake, under the direction of Mr. Tobey, who then kept the Resique House, and the day was generally kept more appropriately with regard to the fitness of things than is observed to day in the towns and cities of States overflowing with patriotic devotion to the Federal Union.
--------------------------------------------
"Death of Samuel Resigue"
Excerpt from page 506:
... A few of the earlier settlers of Kenosha yet live to rejoice at the success which has attended the efforts inaugurated forty years ago, for homes in the West, and many of those remaining in comfortable circumstances, and a happy old age having almost reached the Biblical limits of human life are waiting to say. Now let thy servant depart in peace. But the great majority have gone hence to sleep the sleep of peace from which they will be again quickened into life in the brilliance of the eternal morning. The Hon. William Bullen, Gen. John Bullen, Elder Jason Lothrop, R.H. Deming, C.C. Sholes, J.B. Jilsun, Thomas D. Parsons, Jonathan Pierce, Dr. Walker, William B. Slocum, 0.S. Head, J.J. Pettit, Isaac W. Webster, Jabez H. Boardman, Beach G. Spencer, B.P. Cahoon, George C. Manny, Frederick S. Lovell, D.0. Gaskill, Joseph V. Quarles, and Hiram Tuttle, ex-Consul to Montevideo - all died in Kenosha. John V. Ayer and Samuel Hale, died in Chicago. Deacon Justin Weed, in the town of Somers, Kenosha County. Waters Towslee moved to Whitewater, Wis. where he was thrown from a wagon and killed. Dr. B.B. Cleary died at Racine. Samuel Resique, at San Francisco...
SOURCE: "The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin", by Western Historical Co., pages 334, 337, 338, 499, 500, 501, and 506.
---
His funeral entry can be found in the records of N. Gray & Co. funeral home [S.F., San Francisco Co., CA. -ed.], his entry is at the bottom of the page. That log of entry's were for "Lone Mountain Cemetery", named changed to "Laurel Hill". Here, his wife would had been interned under this name. Later, "Cypress Lawn" took on remains in their cemetery.
Courtesy of: Werner Howald
See cemetery notes, for complete history of exhumations and reburials... "In 1892, the cemetery was forced out of San Francisco and the thirty five thousand (35,000) buried at Laurel Hill were moved to Cypress Lawn in Colma." As a consequence of those operation, he final resting place may well be in Colma, CA. -ed [RCK].
Mother: Helena "Lanah" Davids, b.1761 Philipsburg, NY., d.19-Dec-1851 NY.
---
Husband of Anna [Surname?], b.???? d.10-Mar-1880 San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA.
---
CHILDREN:
i. Eleanor Resseguie, b.~1825 d.24-Jul-1862, m. [Name?] Edwards.
---
Samuel RESSEGUIE (Resique), 1800-1855.
1835, "Pike River" aka "Pike Creek" aka "Pike".
(Kenosha, Kenosha Co., Wisconsin)
--------------------------------------------
"From the Resseguie Book, by Morris"
Samuel Resseguie, born in 1800, died in San Francisco Cal., Jan. 26, 1855. He married Anna who died in San Francisco, March 10, 1880. Mr. Resseguie left Ridgefield, Conn. his native place, and settled first in Susquehanna County, Pa., and afterward in Kenosha, Wis. From the History of Kenosha County, the following extract is taken:
"On the 7th of July 1835, Mr. Samuel Resseguie arrived in Kenosha, and to use a squatter's phrase, "jumped the island". Mr. Resseguie brought with him a Mr. John Noble and a number of brothers by the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place, but the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance was finally amicably settled, and Mr. Resseguie retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or some other compromise. After camping on the island for about two weeks, Mr. Resseguie commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although this humble public house was not equal to the Grant House, it served its purpose well. But few men knew how to cater to the appetites of their guests better than Resseguie, his table was provisioned with the best wild game the surrounding country could furnish, and the economy with which he was accustomed, to stow away his numerous guests in a given area in his little garret, was truly astonishing. His success was so unexpectedly great in the line of tavern keeping, that he concluded to enlarge his business accordingly - in the following month, he opened a store in an adjoining cabin, under the firm name of, Resseguie & Noble."
He subsequently emigrated to California, settled in San Francisco, and at the time of his death owned the premises known as, No. 4 Wetmore Place. By his will, his property was divided equally between his wife and his daughter Eleanor Edwards. Mrs. Resseguie died at the house in Wetmore Place, leaving a will by which her house and furniture was devised to her granddaughter, Mrs. Anna R. Smith of Glen Rock, Nevada, and the residue of the estate to Mrs. Smith's daughter, Eleanor Galvin.
Note: Eleanor, b. about 1825, d.July 24, 1862, m. Edwards.
SOURCE: The Resseguie family: A historical and genealogical record of Alexander Resseguie...", by Morris, pages 64, 65.
--------------------------------------------
"The Pike Creek Colony"
Excerpts from page 334:
As has already been stated the Western Emigration Company fixed upon its location at Pike Creek. The terms "Pike Creek" and "Pike River" are used to designate two entirely distinct localities. The choice of the Company was made in June 1835. As soon as the news reached Oswego County, immediate preparations were made by stockholders to emigrate to the newly selected home. About fifteen families, mostly from the town of Hannibal, came on during the summer and fall of 1835. A part of these however, were not members of the Company, and on their arrival, made claims on land in the vicinity of Pike Creek, for the purpose of pursuing the business of farming. Nine families members of the Company settled at Pike Creek: viz, David Doolittle, Rev. Jason Lothrop, Waters Towslee, J.G. Wilson, Hudson Bacon, David Crossit, Amos Grattan, Samuel Resique, and Michael Van De Bogart. These, with the members of their households, numbered thirty-two persons in all, and comprised the entire settlement during the winter of 1835-36. Their habitations were rude cabins, built of logs, and covered with bark. N.R. Allen and John Bullen erected a framed building in the fall of 1835, being the first frame in the place. It was not completed until 1836, and was located on the lake shore near where the south pier of the harbor was subsequently built.
--------------------------------------------
"The Resique War"
Excerpts from pages 337 and 338:
The early inhabitants of Pike Creek were not indifferent to religious and educational privileges. Through the efforts of Rev. Jason Lothrop, a school was established in the fall or early winter of 1835, and maintained throughout the winter. A number of families residing on the prairies in the vicinity availed themselves of the opportunity to send their children to school. About this time also, religious meetings were held occasionally. Rev. Abner Barlow preached the first sermon in the house of Waters Towslee. A temperance society was also organized, and nearly all the inhabitants of village and country became members.
The residents of Pike Creek were not however permitted to enjoy quiet in their wilderness home. Scarcely were the first settlers comfortably lodged in their cabins, before they were annoyed by intruders upon their rights. The country at that period was traversed in almost every direction by adventurers and speculators some seeking homes for their families, others intent only on money-making. Many exciting events transpired among them, being the Resique war. This controversey began in August 1835, and ended in 1836 ,and was the source of much disturbance. The origin of the war was as follows:
The origin of the war was as follows. In the month of July, 1835, two men: Samuel Resique and John Noble, left Chicago on an expedition to make claims in advantageous localities with the view of selling them on speculation. They followed the lake shore north from Chicago, until they unexpectedly came upon the settlement of the Emigration Company. The usual marks such as furrows made through the woods and openings by a plow indicated that the lands had been already claimed. The prospect of making any claim there appeared at first to be rather dubious, still the place had many natural attractions, and they lingered around a couple of days to enjoy the scenery. Washington Island was then in its primitive glory. The grove of young oaks upon it had never been disturbed by the settler's axe. Attracted by its beauty, the men passed over to obtain a closer view of the pleasing spot. The speculators were experienced squatters, and their keen perceptions soon convinced them that the island had no legal claimant. The necessary marks had been omitted. Resique and Noble proceeded at once to lay claim to the tract, by erecting an encampment. Having made their claim cabin, Resique returned to Chicago for a supply of provisions and other necessaries, while Noble retained possession of the island. As soon as the settlers realized what the men were about, Noble was ordered to leave the island. This he resolutely refused to do. It was next proposed to eject him forcibly, but the more discreet refused to participate in such a scheme. It was finally concluded to proceed against Noble by a sort of technical movement. Accordingly, on the morning of the 25th of July, six men armed with axes were seen crossing over in a boat toward the island. Noble beheld this formidable force advance and was overwhelmed, in conjecture as to its probable intent. Upon landing on the island, instead of offering him any molestation, the men immediately began cutting down trees and brush, and commenced building a fence. They continued their labors until they had entirely inclosed one acre or more, leaving Noble and his domicile in the center thereof. Noble maintained his position. In a few days Resique returned from Chicago with a good supply of provisions and several laboring men. The fence aforesaid, which at first appeared so formidable, soon began to disappear piecemeal, until it was gone entirely. The squatters kept possession of the island, with only occasional skirmishes, until the summer of 1836, when the contest was renewed with manifestations of hostility, which for a time, threatened the most serious consequences. Judge William Bullen attempted to take possession of that portion of the island lying in the northeast quarter of Section 31, by virtue of a claim originally made by an agent of the Western Emigration Company. Resique marshaled a force to maintain his own position. For several days, armed men were employed and the most warlike spirit was manifested on both sides. The dispute was finally settled by compromise, and Judge Bullen entered upon the peaceful occupation of a portion of the island.
It is proper to remark that during some two or three years after the first locations were made at Pike Creek, Washington Island which covered an area of about thirty acres, was regarded the most valuable portion of the projected town site. It was believed it was destined to become the chief commercial point, and that every foot of its surface would eventually be as precious as gold. It is said that Mr Garrett, a capitalist of Chicago, in the fall of 1835, offered $7,500 for a good claim to the property. Other capitalists and speculators made liberal offers for this now almost deserted spot. Next to the island, that portion of the town lying north of the creek, was held to be the most valuable. For several years, the lands on the south side of the creek were not esteemed very desirable.
--------------------------------------------
"History of Kenosha"
Excerpts from pages 499 and 500:
The harbor at Kenosha, as is known to all who have visited the place, lies in the form of a crescent having two outlets into the lake, one distant about three fourths of a mile from the other. The harbor also receives a small tributary from the northwest, called Pike Creek. The estuary which forms the principal harbor, surrounds a piece of land on all sides, except on the east, and on the east, the land borders on the lake, thus forming an island. This island had not escaped the attention of the Company in establishing the limits of their claims.
On Monday the 6th day of July, Mr. Builen commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, about fifty rods north of the northern outlet of the harbor. In 1836, this building with a small piece of land adjoining passed into the hands of James R. Beard, who then commenced manufacturing brick. The log house after being occupied for a period of about twelve years was supplanted by one of greater durability and pretension.
On the 7th day of July, Mr. Samuel Resique [sic] {Resseguie} arrived at Kenosha, and to use a "squatter" phrase, "jumped the island". Mr Resique brought with him a number of brothers of the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place. But the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance, was finally amicably settled, and Mr Resique retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or by some other compromise. After camping upon the island for about two weeks, Mr Resique commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although the accommodations that a public house is supposed to hold forth were not in much requisition at that early day, yet the Resique House became after a time, quite noted as a public inn.
About the time that Mr Resique jumped the island, Mr. Gardner Wilson commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, opposite the north end of the island. This was the third building put up. This building was occupied several years by Mr. Wilson, when he moved back East. The last vestige of the Wilson house, and also of the Resique house has long since disappeared. Not a stone a piece of wood or an indentation of the soil marks the former foundations of these buildings, once so famous in the history of the place.
Mr Bullen, on behalf of the company which he represented, commenced putting-up a log house on the south side of the harbor, about the middle of July. This was the first building put up on that side of the harbor, and it stood on what is laid-down in the city map, at the present time, as Lot 1, Block 4, in the First Ward. The building was put-up for the purpose of holding the claim. A day or two after this building was commenced, Mr. Timothy Woodbridge commenced putting up a small log shanty a few rods south, and on what is now called Block 5, for the purpose of jumping the claim. He finished his building, but abandoned any pretension to the claim.
In the latter part of July, Mr. Bacon put up a log house near his present residence, on Block 80 in the Second Ward, and on the 29th of July, Mr. Jonathan Pierce commenced hewing the timber for the first frame building, but after the frame had been completed, owing to some apprehensions that a claim the company had made about one mile northwest would be jumped, the timbers were transferred to that claim, and put up.
The place was destined however not to be long without a frame building, and accordingly, another building was commenced in the first part of August, which was put up on the lake shore on the south side of the harbor. This building stood on what is now called Lot 4, Block 4, in the First Ward. It was built by Mr. John Bullen, and was used by him for a store, and was the first establishment of the kind in the place.
The first cargo of any kind that ever landed at Kenosha arrived on the 10th day of July, 1835. It consisted of 50,000 feet of lumber. The lumber had been purchased at Sheboygan for Mr. Bullen at a cost of $20 per thousand. It was thrown into the lake and floated ashore in rafts. The next arrival by lake at Kenosha, was a part of a cargo of merchandise, also for Mr. Bullen. They arrived in August, were shipped by way of Oswego and the lakes, and date the opening of the first mercantile establishment in Kenosha.
--------------------------------------------
"First Fourth of July"
Excerpt from page 501:
An old settler relates how the first Fourth of July celebration ever held in old Racine County passed off in Southport. It was in the year 1836, and the people assembled until nearly all the population of the region was upon the ground. Rev. Jason Lothrop was chosen orator. Among the delegations was one from Pleasant Prairie, which consisted of men women and children to a considerable number who came riding on an immense wagon drawn by twenty yoke of oxen. Dinner was served on the bank of the lake, under the direction of Mr. Tobey, who then kept the Resique House, and the day was generally kept more appropriately with regard to the fitness of things than is observed to day in the towns and cities of States overflowing with patriotic devotion to the Federal Union.
--------------------------------------------
"Death of Samuel Resigue"
Excerpt from page 506:
... A few of the earlier settlers of Kenosha yet live to rejoice at the success which has attended the efforts inaugurated forty years ago, for homes in the West, and many of those remaining in comfortable circumstances, and a happy old age having almost reached the Biblical limits of human life are waiting to say. Now let thy servant depart in peace. But the great majority have gone hence to sleep the sleep of peace from which they will be again quickened into life in the brilliance of the eternal morning. The Hon. William Bullen, Gen. John Bullen, Elder Jason Lothrop, R.H. Deming, C.C. Sholes, J.B. Jilsun, Thomas D. Parsons, Jonathan Pierce, Dr. Walker, William B. Slocum, 0.S. Head, J.J. Pettit, Isaac W. Webster, Jabez H. Boardman, Beach G. Spencer, B.P. Cahoon, George C. Manny, Frederick S. Lovell, D.0. Gaskill, Joseph V. Quarles, and Hiram Tuttle, ex-Consul to Montevideo - all died in Kenosha. John V. Ayer and Samuel Hale, died in Chicago. Deacon Justin Weed, in the town of Somers, Kenosha County. Waters Towslee moved to Whitewater, Wis. where he was thrown from a wagon and killed. Dr. B.B. Cleary died at Racine. Samuel Resique, at San Francisco...
SOURCE: "The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin", by Western Historical Co., pages 334, 337, 338, 499, 500, 501, and 506.
---
His funeral entry can be found in the records of N. Gray & Co. funeral home [S.F., San Francisco Co., CA. -ed.], his entry is at the bottom of the page. That log of entry's were for "Lone Mountain Cemetery", named changed to "Laurel Hill". Here, his wife would had been interned under this name. Later, "Cypress Lawn" took on remains in their cemetery.
Courtesy of: Werner Howald
See cemetery notes, for complete history of exhumations and reburials... "In 1892, the cemetery was forced out of San Francisco and the thirty five thousand (35,000) buried at Laurel Hill were moved to Cypress Lawn in Colma." As a consequence of those operation, he final resting place may well be in Colma, CA. -ed [RCK].
Father: Abraham Resseguie, b.~1748 Ridgefield, Fairfield Co., CT. d.1826 Ossining, NY.
Mother: Helena "Lanah" Davids, b.1761 Philipsburg, NY., d.19-Dec-1851 NY.
---
Husband of Anna [Surname?], b.???? d.10-Mar-1880 San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA.
---
CHILDREN:
i. Eleanor Resseguie, b.~1825 d.24-Jul-1862, m. [Name?] Edwards.
---
Samuel RESSEGUIE (Resique), 1800-1855.
1835, "Pike River" aka "Pike Creek" aka "Pike".
(Kenosha, Kenosha Co., Wisconsin)
--------------------------------------------
"From the Resseguie Book, by Morris"
Samuel Resseguie, born in 1800, died in San Francisco Cal., Jan. 26, 1855. He married Anna who died in San Francisco, March 10, 1880. Mr. Resseguie left Ridgefield, Conn. his native place, and settled first in Susquehanna County, Pa., and afterward in Kenosha, Wis. From the History of Kenosha County, the following extract is taken:
"On the 7th of July 1835, Mr. Samuel Resseguie arrived in Kenosha, and to use a squatter's phrase, "jumped the island". Mr. Resseguie brought with him a Mr. John Noble and a number of brothers by the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place, but the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance was finally amicably settled, and Mr. Resseguie retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or some other compromise. After camping on the island for about two weeks, Mr. Resseguie commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although this humble public house was not equal to the Grant House, it served its purpose well. But few men knew how to cater to the appetites of their guests better than Resseguie, his table was provisioned with the best wild game the surrounding country could furnish, and the economy with which he was accustomed, to stow away his numerous guests in a given area in his little garret, was truly astonishing. His success was so unexpectedly great in the line of tavern keeping, that he concluded to enlarge his business accordingly - in the following month, he opened a store in an adjoining cabin, under the firm name of, Resseguie & Noble."
He subsequently emigrated to California, settled in San Francisco, and at the time of his death owned the premises known as, No. 4 Wetmore Place. By his will, his property was divided equally between his wife and his daughter Eleanor Edwards. Mrs. Resseguie died at the house in Wetmore Place, leaving a will by which her house and furniture was devised to her granddaughter, Mrs. Anna R. Smith of Glen Rock, Nevada, and the residue of the estate to Mrs. Smith's daughter, Eleanor Galvin.
Note: Eleanor, b. about 1825, d.July 24, 1862, m. Edwards.
SOURCE: The Resseguie family: A historical and genealogical record of Alexander Resseguie...", by Morris, pages 64, 65.
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"The Pike Creek Colony"
Excerpts from page 334:
As has already been stated the Western Emigration Company fixed upon its location at Pike Creek. The terms "Pike Creek" and "Pike River" are used to designate two entirely distinct localities. The choice of the Company was made in June 1835. As soon as the news reached Oswego County, immediate preparations were made by stockholders to emigrate to the newly selected home. About fifteen families, mostly from the town of Hannibal, came on during the summer and fall of 1835. A part of these however, were not members of the Company, and on their arrival, made claims on land in the vicinity of Pike Creek, for the purpose of pursuing the business of farming. Nine families members of the Company settled at Pike Creek: viz, David Doolittle, Rev. Jason Lothrop, Waters Towslee, J.G. Wilson, Hudson Bacon, David Crossit, Amos Grattan, Samuel Resique, and Michael Van De Bogart. These, with the members of their households, numbered thirty-two persons in all, and comprised the entire settlement during the winter of 1835-36. Their habitations were rude cabins, built of logs, and covered with bark. N.R. Allen and John Bullen erected a framed building in the fall of 1835, being the first frame in the place. It was not completed until 1836, and was located on the lake shore near where the south pier of the harbor was subsequently built.
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"The Resique War"
Excerpts from pages 337 and 338:
The early inhabitants of Pike Creek were not indifferent to religious and educational privileges. Through the efforts of Rev. Jason Lothrop, a school was established in the fall or early winter of 1835, and maintained throughout the winter. A number of families residing on the prairies in the vicinity availed themselves of the opportunity to send their children to school. About this time also, religious meetings were held occasionally. Rev. Abner Barlow preached the first sermon in the house of Waters Towslee. A temperance society was also organized, and nearly all the inhabitants of village and country became members.
The residents of Pike Creek were not however permitted to enjoy quiet in their wilderness home. Scarcely were the first settlers comfortably lodged in their cabins, before they were annoyed by intruders upon their rights. The country at that period was traversed in almost every direction by adventurers and speculators some seeking homes for their families, others intent only on money-making. Many exciting events transpired among them, being the Resique war. This controversey began in August 1835, and ended in 1836 ,and was the source of much disturbance. The origin of the war was as follows:
The origin of the war was as follows. In the month of July, 1835, two men: Samuel Resique and John Noble, left Chicago on an expedition to make claims in advantageous localities with the view of selling them on speculation. They followed the lake shore north from Chicago, until they unexpectedly came upon the settlement of the Emigration Company. The usual marks such as furrows made through the woods and openings by a plow indicated that the lands had been already claimed. The prospect of making any claim there appeared at first to be rather dubious, still the place had many natural attractions, and they lingered around a couple of days to enjoy the scenery. Washington Island was then in its primitive glory. The grove of young oaks upon it had never been disturbed by the settler's axe. Attracted by its beauty, the men passed over to obtain a closer view of the pleasing spot. The speculators were experienced squatters, and their keen perceptions soon convinced them that the island had no legal claimant. The necessary marks had been omitted. Resique and Noble proceeded at once to lay claim to the tract, by erecting an encampment. Having made their claim cabin, Resique returned to Chicago for a supply of provisions and other necessaries, while Noble retained possession of the island. As soon as the settlers realized what the men were about, Noble was ordered to leave the island. This he resolutely refused to do. It was next proposed to eject him forcibly, but the more discreet refused to participate in such a scheme. It was finally concluded to proceed against Noble by a sort of technical movement. Accordingly, on the morning of the 25th of July, six men armed with axes were seen crossing over in a boat toward the island. Noble beheld this formidable force advance and was overwhelmed, in conjecture as to its probable intent. Upon landing on the island, instead of offering him any molestation, the men immediately began cutting down trees and brush, and commenced building a fence. They continued their labors until they had entirely inclosed one acre or more, leaving Noble and his domicile in the center thereof. Noble maintained his position. In a few days Resique returned from Chicago with a good supply of provisions and several laboring men. The fence aforesaid, which at first appeared so formidable, soon began to disappear piecemeal, until it was gone entirely. The squatters kept possession of the island, with only occasional skirmishes, until the summer of 1836, when the contest was renewed with manifestations of hostility, which for a time, threatened the most serious consequences. Judge William Bullen attempted to take possession of that portion of the island lying in the northeast quarter of Section 31, by virtue of a claim originally made by an agent of the Western Emigration Company. Resique marshaled a force to maintain his own position. For several days, armed men were employed and the most warlike spirit was manifested on both sides. The dispute was finally settled by compromise, and Judge Bullen entered upon the peaceful occupation of a portion of the island.
It is proper to remark that during some two or three years after the first locations were made at Pike Creek, Washington Island which covered an area of about thirty acres, was regarded the most valuable portion of the projected town site. It was believed it was destined to become the chief commercial point, and that every foot of its surface would eventually be as precious as gold. It is said that Mr Garrett, a capitalist of Chicago, in the fall of 1835, offered $7,500 for a good claim to the property. Other capitalists and speculators made liberal offers for this now almost deserted spot. Next to the island, that portion of the town lying north of the creek, was held to be the most valuable. For several years, the lands on the south side of the creek were not esteemed very desirable.
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"History of Kenosha"
Excerpts from pages 499 and 500:
The harbor at Kenosha, as is known to all who have visited the place, lies in the form of a crescent having two outlets into the lake, one distant about three fourths of a mile from the other. The harbor also receives a small tributary from the northwest, called Pike Creek. The estuary which forms the principal harbor, surrounds a piece of land on all sides, except on the east, and on the east, the land borders on the lake, thus forming an island. This island had not escaped the attention of the Company in establishing the limits of their claims.
On Monday the 6th day of July, Mr. Builen commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, about fifty rods north of the northern outlet of the harbor. In 1836, this building with a small piece of land adjoining passed into the hands of James R. Beard, who then commenced manufacturing brick. The log house after being occupied for a period of about twelve years was supplanted by one of greater durability and pretension.
On the 7th day of July, Mr. Samuel Resique [sic] {Resseguie} arrived at Kenosha, and to use a "squatter" phrase, "jumped the island". Mr Resique brought with him a number of brothers of the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place. But the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance, was finally amicably settled, and Mr Resique retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or by some other compromise. After camping upon the island for about two weeks, Mr Resique commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although the accommodations that a public house is supposed to hold forth were not in much requisition at that early day, yet the Resique House became after a time, quite noted as a public inn.
About the time that Mr Resique jumped the island, Mr. Gardner Wilson commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, opposite the north end of the island. This was the third building put up. This building was occupied several years by Mr. Wilson, when he moved back East. The last vestige of the Wilson house, and also of the Resique house has long since disappeared. Not a stone a piece of wood or an indentation of the soil marks the former foundations of these buildings, once so famous in the history of the place.
Mr Bullen, on behalf of the company which he represented, commenced putting-up a log house on the south side of the harbor, about the middle of July. This was the first building put up on that side of the harbor, and it stood on what is laid-down in the city map, at the present time, as Lot 1, Block 4, in the First Ward. The building was put-up for the purpose of holding the claim. A day or two after this building was commenced, Mr. Timothy Woodbridge commenced putting up a small log shanty a few rods south, and on what is now called Block 5, for the purpose of jumping the claim. He finished his building, but abandoned any pretension to the claim.
In the latter part of July, Mr. Bacon put up a log house near his present residence, on Block 80 in the Second Ward, and on the 29th of July, Mr. Jonathan Pierce commenced hewing the timber for the first frame building, but after the frame had been completed, owing to some apprehensions that a claim the company had made about one mile northwest would be jumped, the timbers were transferred to that claim, and put up.
The place was destined however not to be long without a frame building, and accordingly, another building was commenced in the first part of August, which was put up on the lake shore on the south side of the harbor. This building stood on what is now called Lot 4, Block 4, in the First Ward. It was built by Mr. John Bullen, and was used by him for a store, and was the first establishment of the kind in the place.
The first cargo of any kind that ever landed at Kenosha arrived on the 10th day of July, 1835. It consisted of 50,000 feet of lumber. The lumber had been purchased at Sheboygan for Mr. Bullen at a cost of $20 per thousand. It was thrown into the lake and floated ashore in rafts. The next arrival by lake at Kenosha, was a part of a cargo of merchandise, also for Mr. Bullen. They arrived in August, were shipped by way of Oswego and the lakes, and date the opening of the first mercantile establishment in Kenosha.
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"First Fourth of July"
Excerpt from page 501:
An old settler relates how the first Fourth of July celebration ever held in old Racine County passed off in Southport. It was in the year 1836, and the people assembled until nearly all the population of the region was upon the ground. Rev. Jason Lothrop was chosen orator. Among the delegations was one from Pleasant Prairie, which consisted of men women and children to a considerable number who came riding on an immense wagon drawn by twenty yoke of oxen. Dinner was served on the bank of the lake, under the direction of Mr. Tobey, who then kept the Resique House, and the day was generally kept more appropriately with regard to the fitness of things than is observed to day in the towns and cities of States overflowing with patriotic devotion to the Federal Union.
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"Death of Samuel Resigue"
Excerpt from page 506:
... A few of the earlier settlers of Kenosha yet live to rejoice at the success which has attended the efforts inaugurated forty years ago, for homes in the West, and many of those remaining in comfortable circumstances, and a happy old age having almost reached the Biblical limits of human life are waiting to say. Now let thy servant depart in peace. But the great majority have gone hence to sleep the sleep of peace from which they will be again quickened into life in the brilliance of the eternal morning. The Hon. William Bullen, Gen. John Bullen, Elder Jason Lothrop, R.H. Deming, C.C. Sholes, J.B. Jilsun, Thomas D. Parsons, Jonathan Pierce, Dr. Walker, William B. Slocum, 0.S. Head, J.J. Pettit, Isaac W. Webster, Jabez H. Boardman, Beach G. Spencer, B.P. Cahoon, George C. Manny, Frederick S. Lovell, D.0. Gaskill, Joseph V. Quarles, and Hiram Tuttle, ex-Consul to Montevideo - all died in Kenosha. John V. Ayer and Samuel Hale, died in Chicago. Deacon Justin Weed, in the town of Somers, Kenosha County. Waters Towslee moved to Whitewater, Wis. where he was thrown from a wagon and killed. Dr. B.B. Cleary died at Racine. Samuel Resique, at San Francisco...
SOURCE: "The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin", by Western Historical Co., pages 334, 337, 338, 499, 500, 501, and 506.
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His funeral entry can be found in the records of N. Gray & Co. funeral home [S.F., San Francisco Co., CA. -ed.], his entry is at the bottom of the page. That log of entry's were for "Lone Mountain Cemetery", named changed to "Laurel Hill". Here, his wife would had been interned under this name. Later, "Cypress Lawn" took on remains in their cemetery.
Courtesy of: Werner Howald
See cemetery notes, for complete history of exhumations and reburials... "In 1892, the cemetery was forced out of San Francisco and the thirty five thousand (35,000) buried at Laurel Hill were moved to Cypress Lawn in Colma." As a consequence of those operation, he final resting place may well be in Colma, CA. -ed [RCK].
Mother: Helena "Lanah" Davids, b.1761 Philipsburg, NY., d.19-Dec-1851 NY.
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Husband of Anna [Surname?], b.???? d.10-Mar-1880 San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA.
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CHILDREN:
i. Eleanor Resseguie, b.~1825 d.24-Jul-1862, m. [Name?] Edwards.
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Samuel RESSEGUIE (Resique), 1800-1855.
1835, "Pike River" aka "Pike Creek" aka "Pike".
(Kenosha, Kenosha Co., Wisconsin)
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"From the Resseguie Book, by Morris"
Samuel Resseguie, born in 1800, died in San Francisco Cal., Jan. 26, 1855. He married Anna who died in San Francisco, March 10, 1880. Mr. Resseguie left Ridgefield, Conn. his native place, and settled first in Susquehanna County, Pa., and afterward in Kenosha, Wis. From the History of Kenosha County, the following extract is taken:
"On the 7th of July 1835, Mr. Samuel Resseguie arrived in Kenosha, and to use a squatter's phrase, "jumped the island". Mr. Resseguie brought with him a Mr. John Noble and a number of brothers by the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place, but the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance was finally amicably settled, and Mr. Resseguie retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or some other compromise. After camping on the island for about two weeks, Mr. Resseguie commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although this humble public house was not equal to the Grant House, it served its purpose well. But few men knew how to cater to the appetites of their guests better than Resseguie, his table was provisioned with the best wild game the surrounding country could furnish, and the economy with which he was accustomed, to stow away his numerous guests in a given area in his little garret, was truly astonishing. His success was so unexpectedly great in the line of tavern keeping, that he concluded to enlarge his business accordingly - in the following month, he opened a store in an adjoining cabin, under the firm name of, Resseguie & Noble."
He subsequently emigrated to California, settled in San Francisco, and at the time of his death owned the premises known as, No. 4 Wetmore Place. By his will, his property was divided equally between his wife and his daughter Eleanor Edwards. Mrs. Resseguie died at the house in Wetmore Place, leaving a will by which her house and furniture was devised to her granddaughter, Mrs. Anna R. Smith of Glen Rock, Nevada, and the residue of the estate to Mrs. Smith's daughter, Eleanor Galvin.
Note: Eleanor, b. about 1825, d.July 24, 1862, m. Edwards.
SOURCE: The Resseguie family: A historical and genealogical record of Alexander Resseguie...", by Morris, pages 64, 65.
--------------------------------------------
"The Pike Creek Colony"
Excerpts from page 334:
As has already been stated the Western Emigration Company fixed upon its location at Pike Creek. The terms "Pike Creek" and "Pike River" are used to designate two entirely distinct localities. The choice of the Company was made in June 1835. As soon as the news reached Oswego County, immediate preparations were made by stockholders to emigrate to the newly selected home. About fifteen families, mostly from the town of Hannibal, came on during the summer and fall of 1835. A part of these however, were not members of the Company, and on their arrival, made claims on land in the vicinity of Pike Creek, for the purpose of pursuing the business of farming. Nine families members of the Company settled at Pike Creek: viz, David Doolittle, Rev. Jason Lothrop, Waters Towslee, J.G. Wilson, Hudson Bacon, David Crossit, Amos Grattan, Samuel Resique, and Michael Van De Bogart. These, with the members of their households, numbered thirty-two persons in all, and comprised the entire settlement during the winter of 1835-36. Their habitations were rude cabins, built of logs, and covered with bark. N.R. Allen and John Bullen erected a framed building in the fall of 1835, being the first frame in the place. It was not completed until 1836, and was located on the lake shore near where the south pier of the harbor was subsequently built.
--------------------------------------------
"The Resique War"
Excerpts from pages 337 and 338:
The early inhabitants of Pike Creek were not indifferent to religious and educational privileges. Through the efforts of Rev. Jason Lothrop, a school was established in the fall or early winter of 1835, and maintained throughout the winter. A number of families residing on the prairies in the vicinity availed themselves of the opportunity to send their children to school. About this time also, religious meetings were held occasionally. Rev. Abner Barlow preached the first sermon in the house of Waters Towslee. A temperance society was also organized, and nearly all the inhabitants of village and country became members.
The residents of Pike Creek were not however permitted to enjoy quiet in their wilderness home. Scarcely were the first settlers comfortably lodged in their cabins, before they were annoyed by intruders upon their rights. The country at that period was traversed in almost every direction by adventurers and speculators some seeking homes for their families, others intent only on money-making. Many exciting events transpired among them, being the Resique war. This controversey began in August 1835, and ended in 1836 ,and was the source of much disturbance. The origin of the war was as follows:
The origin of the war was as follows. In the month of July, 1835, two men: Samuel Resique and John Noble, left Chicago on an expedition to make claims in advantageous localities with the view of selling them on speculation. They followed the lake shore north from Chicago, until they unexpectedly came upon the settlement of the Emigration Company. The usual marks such as furrows made through the woods and openings by a plow indicated that the lands had been already claimed. The prospect of making any claim there appeared at first to be rather dubious, still the place had many natural attractions, and they lingered around a couple of days to enjoy the scenery. Washington Island was then in its primitive glory. The grove of young oaks upon it had never been disturbed by the settler's axe. Attracted by its beauty, the men passed over to obtain a closer view of the pleasing spot. The speculators were experienced squatters, and their keen perceptions soon convinced them that the island had no legal claimant. The necessary marks had been omitted. Resique and Noble proceeded at once to lay claim to the tract, by erecting an encampment. Having made their claim cabin, Resique returned to Chicago for a supply of provisions and other necessaries, while Noble retained possession of the island. As soon as the settlers realized what the men were about, Noble was ordered to leave the island. This he resolutely refused to do. It was next proposed to eject him forcibly, but the more discreet refused to participate in such a scheme. It was finally concluded to proceed against Noble by a sort of technical movement. Accordingly, on the morning of the 25th of July, six men armed with axes were seen crossing over in a boat toward the island. Noble beheld this formidable force advance and was overwhelmed, in conjecture as to its probable intent. Upon landing on the island, instead of offering him any molestation, the men immediately began cutting down trees and brush, and commenced building a fence. They continued their labors until they had entirely inclosed one acre or more, leaving Noble and his domicile in the center thereof. Noble maintained his position. In a few days Resique returned from Chicago with a good supply of provisions and several laboring men. The fence aforesaid, which at first appeared so formidable, soon began to disappear piecemeal, until it was gone entirely. The squatters kept possession of the island, with only occasional skirmishes, until the summer of 1836, when the contest was renewed with manifestations of hostility, which for a time, threatened the most serious consequences. Judge William Bullen attempted to take possession of that portion of the island lying in the northeast quarter of Section 31, by virtue of a claim originally made by an agent of the Western Emigration Company. Resique marshaled a force to maintain his own position. For several days, armed men were employed and the most warlike spirit was manifested on both sides. The dispute was finally settled by compromise, and Judge Bullen entered upon the peaceful occupation of a portion of the island.
It is proper to remark that during some two or three years after the first locations were made at Pike Creek, Washington Island which covered an area of about thirty acres, was regarded the most valuable portion of the projected town site. It was believed it was destined to become the chief commercial point, and that every foot of its surface would eventually be as precious as gold. It is said that Mr Garrett, a capitalist of Chicago, in the fall of 1835, offered $7,500 for a good claim to the property. Other capitalists and speculators made liberal offers for this now almost deserted spot. Next to the island, that portion of the town lying north of the creek, was held to be the most valuable. For several years, the lands on the south side of the creek were not esteemed very desirable.
--------------------------------------------
"History of Kenosha"
Excerpts from pages 499 and 500:
The harbor at Kenosha, as is known to all who have visited the place, lies in the form of a crescent having two outlets into the lake, one distant about three fourths of a mile from the other. The harbor also receives a small tributary from the northwest, called Pike Creek. The estuary which forms the principal harbor, surrounds a piece of land on all sides, except on the east, and on the east, the land borders on the lake, thus forming an island. This island had not escaped the attention of the Company in establishing the limits of their claims.
On Monday the 6th day of July, Mr. Builen commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, about fifty rods north of the northern outlet of the harbor. In 1836, this building with a small piece of land adjoining passed into the hands of James R. Beard, who then commenced manufacturing brick. The log house after being occupied for a period of about twelve years was supplanted by one of greater durability and pretension.
On the 7th day of July, Mr. Samuel Resique [sic] {Resseguie} arrived at Kenosha, and to use a "squatter" phrase, "jumped the island". Mr Resique brought with him a number of brothers of the name of Woodbridge, and others, and he accordingly had quite a formidable force to sustain him in holding possession. This circumstance occasioned the first dispute about the right of property that had occurred at this place. But the dispute which at one time threatened to cause some disturbance, was finally amicably settled, and Mr Resique retained a portion of the island, either by purchase, or by some other compromise. After camping upon the island for about two weeks, Mr Resique commenced the erection of a log house, and shortly after completing it, opened it as a tavern. Although the accommodations that a public house is supposed to hold forth were not in much requisition at that early day, yet the Resique House became after a time, quite noted as a public inn.
About the time that Mr Resique jumped the island, Mr. Gardner Wilson commenced the erection of a log house on the lake shore, opposite the north end of the island. This was the third building put up. This building was occupied several years by Mr. Wilson, when he moved back East. The last vestige of the Wilson house, and also of the Resique house has long since disappeared. Not a stone a piece of wood or an indentation of the soil marks the former foundations of these buildings, once so famous in the history of the place.
Mr Bullen, on behalf of the company which he represented, commenced putting-up a log house on the south side of the harbor, about the middle of July. This was the first building put up on that side of the harbor, and it stood on what is laid-down in the city map, at the present time, as Lot 1, Block 4, in the First Ward. The building was put-up for the purpose of holding the claim. A day or two after this building was commenced, Mr. Timothy Woodbridge commenced putting up a small log shanty a few rods south, and on what is now called Block 5, for the purpose of jumping the claim. He finished his building, but abandoned any pretension to the claim.
In the latter part of July, Mr. Bacon put up a log house near his present residence, on Block 80 in the Second Ward, and on the 29th of July, Mr. Jonathan Pierce commenced hewing the timber for the first frame building, but after the frame had been completed, owing to some apprehensions that a claim the company had made about one mile northwest would be jumped, the timbers were transferred to that claim, and put up.
The place was destined however not to be long without a frame building, and accordingly, another building was commenced in the first part of August, which was put up on the lake shore on the south side of the harbor. This building stood on what is now called Lot 4, Block 4, in the First Ward. It was built by Mr. John Bullen, and was used by him for a store, and was the first establishment of the kind in the place.
The first cargo of any kind that ever landed at Kenosha arrived on the 10th day of July, 1835. It consisted of 50,000 feet of lumber. The lumber had been purchased at Sheboygan for Mr. Bullen at a cost of $20 per thousand. It was thrown into the lake and floated ashore in rafts. The next arrival by lake at Kenosha, was a part of a cargo of merchandise, also for Mr. Bullen. They arrived in August, were shipped by way of Oswego and the lakes, and date the opening of the first mercantile establishment in Kenosha.
--------------------------------------------
"First Fourth of July"
Excerpt from page 501:
An old settler relates how the first Fourth of July celebration ever held in old Racine County passed off in Southport. It was in the year 1836, and the people assembled until nearly all the population of the region was upon the ground. Rev. Jason Lothrop was chosen orator. Among the delegations was one from Pleasant Prairie, which consisted of men women and children to a considerable number who came riding on an immense wagon drawn by twenty yoke of oxen. Dinner was served on the bank of the lake, under the direction of Mr. Tobey, who then kept the Resique House, and the day was generally kept more appropriately with regard to the fitness of things than is observed to day in the towns and cities of States overflowing with patriotic devotion to the Federal Union.
--------------------------------------------
"Death of Samuel Resigue"
Excerpt from page 506:
... A few of the earlier settlers of Kenosha yet live to rejoice at the success which has attended the efforts inaugurated forty years ago, for homes in the West, and many of those remaining in comfortable circumstances, and a happy old age having almost reached the Biblical limits of human life are waiting to say. Now let thy servant depart in peace. But the great majority have gone hence to sleep the sleep of peace from which they will be again quickened into life in the brilliance of the eternal morning. The Hon. William Bullen, Gen. John Bullen, Elder Jason Lothrop, R.H. Deming, C.C. Sholes, J.B. Jilsun, Thomas D. Parsons, Jonathan Pierce, Dr. Walker, William B. Slocum, 0.S. Head, J.J. Pettit, Isaac W. Webster, Jabez H. Boardman, Beach G. Spencer, B.P. Cahoon, George C. Manny, Frederick S. Lovell, D.0. Gaskill, Joseph V. Quarles, and Hiram Tuttle, ex-Consul to Montevideo - all died in Kenosha. John V. Ayer and Samuel Hale, died in Chicago. Deacon Justin Weed, in the town of Somers, Kenosha County. Waters Towslee moved to Whitewater, Wis. where he was thrown from a wagon and killed. Dr. B.B. Cleary died at Racine. Samuel Resique, at San Francisco...
SOURCE: "The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin", by Western Historical Co., pages 334, 337, 338, 499, 500, 501, and 506.
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His funeral entry can be found in the records of N. Gray & Co. funeral home [S.F., San Francisco Co., CA. -ed.], his entry is at the bottom of the page. That log of entry's were for "Lone Mountain Cemetery", named changed to "Laurel Hill". Here, his wife would had been interned under this name. Later, "Cypress Lawn" took on remains in their cemetery.
Courtesy of: Werner Howald
See cemetery notes, for complete history of exhumations and reburials... "In 1892, the cemetery was forced out of San Francisco and the thirty five thousand (35,000) buried at Laurel Hill were moved to Cypress Lawn in Colma." As a consequence of those operation, he final resting place may well be in Colma, CA. -ed [RCK].
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