Neil Houghton1

M, #58171

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, a baker1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Patrick Houghton1

M, #58172

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Occupation1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, boat builders1
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, a boat builder, living at 516 Sumner1
Duplicate
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Patrick Houghton1

M, #58173

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, a laborer1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Richard Houghton1

M, #58174

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, working at the Custom House1
Duplicate
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Richard Houghton1

M, #58175

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, a laborer1
Duplicate
Duplicate
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Mrs. Rufus H. Houghton1

F, #58176

Family: Rufus H. Houghton b. c 1820, d. 1878

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Marriage1
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Mrs. Sarah A. Houghton1

F, #58177

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Stephen Houghton1

M, #58178

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, a carpenter1
Duplicate
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Thomas Houghton1

M, #58179

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, in a boarding house1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

William E. Houghton1

M, #58180, b. circa 1851

Family: Ellen (?) b. c 1869

  • Marriage*: William E. Houghton married Ellen (?)2

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Birthcirca 1851MA, USA, age 69 in 1920 census2
Residence1890Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, a salesman1
Marriage2
1920 Census1920Boston, Suffolk Co., MA, USA, age 69, paints salesman2
Duplicate
ParentsSfather born in ME, mother born in MA
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Boston, Massachusetts Directory, 1890, Sep. 26, 2001.
  2. [S1232] 1920 U.S. Federal Census , Boston Ward 7, Suffolk, Massachusetts; Roll T625_732; Page: 9A; Enumeration District: 195; line 5, dwl 59-70-213.

Elizabeth (?)1

F, #58181

Family: Michael Houghton b. c 1873, d. b 1890

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1889Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, widow of Michael1
Marriage1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Frederick Houghton1

M, #58182

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1889Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, an electrician1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

George Houghton1

M, #58183

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1889Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, a clerk1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Henry Houghton1

M, #58184

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1890Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, an importer1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

James R. Houghton1

M, #58185, b. February 1873

Family: Margaret (?) b. Mar 1873

  • Marriage*: James R. Houghton married Margaret (?) on circa 1893 mar 7 years in 1900 census.3

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
BirthFeb, 1873NY, USA, age 27 in 1900 census; age 40 in 1910 census; age 50 in 1920 census; age 72 in 1940 census2
Residencebetween 1888 and 1889Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, a bookbinder1
Marriagecirca 1893mar 7 years in 1900 census3
1900 Census1900Manhattan, New York Co., NY, USA, age 27, book binder3
1930 Census1930Lyndhurst, Bergen Co., NJ, USA, age 61, married, none4
Research
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.
  2. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Union, Bergen, New Jersey; Roll: T624_870; Page: 46A; Enumeration District: 54; line 78, dwl 6-7.
  3. [S1230] 1900 U.S. Federal Census , Manhattan, New York Co., New York; Roll: T623 ; Enumeration District: 838; Sheet 16B; line 83, dwl 70-39-365.
  4. [S1233] 1930 U.S. Federal Census , Lyndhurst, Bergen, New Jersey; Roll: 1314; Page: 13B; Enumeration District: 158; line 85, dwl 276-279-279.

Vasconcellas Houghton1

M, #58186

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1890Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, works in a drugstore1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

John J. Houghton1

M, #58187, b. circa 1840, d. before 1888

Family: Julia (?) b. Oct 1852

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Birthcirca 1840England, age 40 in 1880 census2
Mil. Serv.Union Army, Comp D, 133rd NY Inf3
Research
Marriage1
1880 Census1880Kings (Brooklyn), NY City, NY, USA, age 40, a laborer4
Deathbefore 1888Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.
  2. [S1229] 1880 U.S. Federal Census , Kings (Brooklyn), New York City-Greater, New York; Roll: T9_852; Family History Film: 1254852; Page: 358D; Enumeration District: 183; sheet 16, line.
  3. [S1515] Unknown name of person, unknown record type, unknown file number.
  4. [S1229] 1880 U.S. Federal Census , Kings (Brooklyn), New York City-Greater, New York; Roll: T9_852; Family History Film: 1254852; Page: 358D; Enumeration District: 183; sheet 16, line 11, dwl 24-92-138.
  5. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 19, Kings, New York; Roll: T623 1056; Enumeration District: 291, page 108, sheet 4A, line 16, dwl 99-42-68.
  6. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 23, Kings, New York; Roll: T624_973; Page: 12A; Enumeration District: 613; line 44, dwl 55-174-235.

Julia (?)1

F, #58188, b. October 1852

Family: John J. Houghton b. c 1840, d. b 1888

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthOct, 1852Ireland, age 30 in 1880 census; age 47 in 1900 census; age 55, NY, in 1910 census2
Immigration18603
Marriage1
1880 Census1880Kings (Brooklyn), NY City, NY, USA, age 40, a laborer4
City Dirctbetween 1888 and 1889Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, widow of John1
PensionInxJul 17, 1890NY, USA, as a widow5
1900 Census1900Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, age 47, widow; housekeeper; 9 births, 6 living;6
1910 Census1910Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, age 55, widow, 7 children born, 4 living7
ParentsDparents born in Ireland
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.
  2. [S1229] 1880 U.S. Federal Census , Kings (Brooklyn), New York City-Greater, New York; Roll: T9_852; Family History Film: 1254852; Page: 358D; Enumeration District: 183; sheet 16, line.
  3. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 19, Kings, New York; Roll: T623 1056; Enumeration District: 291, page 108, sheet 4A, line 16, dwl 99-42-68.
  4. [S1229] 1880 U.S. Federal Census , Kings (Brooklyn), New York City-Greater, New York; Roll: T9_852; Family History Film: 1254852; Page: 358D; Enumeration District: 183; sheet 16, line 11, dwl 24-92-138.
  5. [S1515] Unknown name of person, unknown record type, unknown file number.
  6. [S1230] 1900 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 19, Kings, New York; Roll: T623 1056; Enumeration District: 291, page 108, sheet 4A, line 16, dwl 99-42-68.
  7. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 23, Kings, New York; Roll: T624_973; Page: 12A; Enumeration District: 613;
    line 44, dwl 55-174-235.
  8. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 23, Kings, New York; Roll: T624_973; Page: 12A; Enumeration District: 613; line 44, dwl 55-174-235.

Nathaniel T. Houghton1

M, #58189

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1890Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, in insurance work1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Peter Houghton1

M, #58190

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1890Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, a plasterer1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

John R. Houghton1

M, #58191, d. before 1888

Family: Susan (?)

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Marriage1
Deathbefore 1888(wife a widow)1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Susan (?)1

F, #58192

Family: John R. Houghton d. b 1888

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Marriage1
Residencebetween 1888 and 1890Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, in insurance work1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Thomas F. Houghton1

M, #58193, b. May 1841, d. 5 March 1913

Family: Mary E. Keely b. 1 Jan 1847, d. 28 Mar 1918

  • Marriage*: Thomas F. Houghton married Mary E. Keely on circa 1870 mar 30 years in 1900 census.3

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
NotableY
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthMay, 1841Ireland, age 39 in 1880 census; age 59 in 1900 census; age 68 in 1910 census3
Immigration18511848 in 1910 census3
Research
Mil. Serv.between 1861 and 1863NY, USA, US Navy; steward, NY & asst. paymaster 1864-1865; on North Carolina, Conneticut4
Residencebetween 1870 and 1889Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, an architect1
Marriagecirca 1870mar 30 years in 1900 census3
1880 Census1880Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, age 39, architect5
1900 Census1900Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, age 59, architect; and Sarah Turner, niece, Jun 1875, 24, NY3
PensionInxApr 6, 1907NY, USA, as invalid4
1910 Census1910Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, age 68, architect, own business; no children6
DeathMar 5, 1913Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA
BurialHoly Cross Cemetery, Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA
Biographywas an American architect who was for many years the chief draftsman for the firm of Patrick Keely

Houghton was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1840 and educated in the public schools there. In the American Civil War he served as a paymaster for the United States Navy.

After the war he entered the architectural firm of Patrick Keely and eventually married Keely’s daughter. He rose to the position of main drastsman and in this capacity was involved in the design of many churches, schools, convents and rectories for many Roman Catholic clients throughout the Eastern United States.

By the 1890s Keely and Houghton formed a partnership known as Keeley and Houghton. Most of the buildings designed during that time are attributed to that firm. After Keely’s death in 1896 Houghton continued the practice under his own name.

Works by Houghton include

Our Lady of Victory Church (Brooklyn, New York) (1891-1895), Throop Avenue and McDonough Street[1]
St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, Brooklyn, New York
St. Agnes' Church, Brooklyn, New York
St. Francis Xavier Church, Brooklyn, New York
Holy Family Chapel, Convent, New Jersey
St. Mary of the Annunciation Church, Melrose, MA
Holy Rosary Church, New York City
St. James Church, Salem, MA
St. Ann Church, Somerville, MA
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, New Bedford, Massachusetts

^ White, Norval & Willensky, Elliot (2000). AIA Guide to New York City (4th ed.) New York: Three Rivers Press. ISBN 0812931076., p.7377
NotableAmerican architect; designed 10 Catholic Churches in NY and MA
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.
  2. [S1228] 1870 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 12, Kings, New York; Roll: M593_953; Page: 281; line 21, dwl 225.
  3. [S1230] 1900 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn, Ward 10, Kings Co., New York; Roll: T623 ; Enumeration District: 142; Sheet 14A; line 6, dwl 311.
  4. [S1515] Unknown name of person, unknown record type, unknown file number.
  5. [S1229] 1880 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn, Kings, New York; Roll: 845; Family History Film: 1254845; Page: 182A; Enumeration District: 083; Image: 0502; line 11, dwl 278-50-84.
  6. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Brooklyn Ward 10, Kings, New York; Roll: T624_961; Page: 7A; Enumeration District: 210;
    line 42, dwl 311-84-153.
  7. [S1370] Wikipedia, online http://en.wikipedia.org, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/…

William J. Houghton1

M, #58194

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1890Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, a clerk1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Dr. Levi Burr Houghton MD1,2,3

M, #58195, b. 13 August 1853, d. 1 May 1909

Family 1: Kate Macdonald d. 21 Jul 1889

Family 2: Eleanor Whitley b. 17 Mar 1872, d. 1940

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectY
Corresponded with authorN
BirthAug 13, 1853Sidney, Delaware Co., NY, USA, age 4 in 1855 census; age 8 in 1860 census; age 18 in 1870 census; age 28 in 1880 census; Loren B. Houghton: Wellsbridge, NY;
also Sidney, Delaware Co., NY1,3,4,5
Educationbetween 1877 and 1881In 1877 he matriculated at the New York Homœopathic Medical College and Hospital, and graduated from there in 1881, with the degree of M. D.
1880 Census1880Otsego, Otsego Co., NY, USA, age 28, a student of Dr. James Cossaart6
GraduationMar 3, 1881New York, New York Co., NY, USA, M.D. degree in homeopathic medicine7
NewspaperMar 4, 1881New York, New York Co., NY, USA, B.L. Houghton graduated yesterday with medical degree from NY Homeopathic Medical College. He was honorably mentioned.7
Marriage8
Residencebetween 1889 and 1890Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, a physician9
MarriageApr 27, 1903Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA3
DeathMay 1, 1909Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, at his home, 702 St. Mark's Ave; certif. 8485; age 5610,5
ObituaryMay 3, 1909New York, New York Co., NY, USA, NY Times:
Dr. Y. L. Houghton of 702 St. Mark's AVenue, Brooklyn, died on Saturday at his home of apoplexy, at the age of 55. He was born in Sibley, N.Y., and was graduated from Franklin Seminary in Franklin, N.Y., and from the Medical College of the New York University. He was a member of the Brooklyn Union League Club and a Mason. He leaves a widow and a boy 4 years old.5
BurialSylvan Lawn Cemetery, Greene, Chenago Co., NY, USA
BiographyHOUGHTON, BURR L., Brooklyn, New York, was born in Sidney, Delaware county, New York, August 13, 1853, son of Orrin Houghton and Louisa Hughes, his wife, and is of English and American descent. His earlier education was received in the public schools of Sidney and at the Delaware Literary Institute in Franklin. In 1877 he matriculated at the New York Homœopathic Medical College and Hospital, and graduated from there in 1881, with the degree of M. D. He began his professional career in the village of Greene, Chenango county, New York, remained there about ten years and then removed to. Brooklyn, where he now lives. He is a member of the medical staff of the Prospect Heights Hospital of Brooklyn, and is attending physician to the Methodist Episcopal Home for Aged Women in that city ; a member of the New York State Homœopathic Medical Society, the Union League Club of Brooklyn, of the subordinate masonic bodies of Greene, and of Malta Commandery, K. T., of Binghamton. Dr. Houghton married, in 1902, Nellie Whitley. (Source : History of Homœopathy by William Harvey King; Copyright © Sylvain Cazalet 2003)

Burr L Houghton, 1853 -, of Brooklyn, New York, was born in Sidney, Delaware county, New York, August 13, 1853, son of Orrin Houghton and Louisa Hughes, his wife, and is of English and American descent. His earlier education was received in the public schools of Sidney and at the Delaware Literary Institute in Franklin. In 1877 he matriculated at the New York Homœopathic Medical College and Hospital, and graduated from there in 1881, with the degree of M. D.
He began his professional career in the village of Greene, Chenango county, New York, remained there about ten years and then removed to Brooklyn, where he now lives. He is a member of the medical staff of the Prospect Heights Hospital of Brooklyn, and is attending physician to the Methodist Episcopal Home for Aged Women in that city ; a member of the New York State Homœopathic Medical Society, the Union League Club of Brooklyn, of the subordinate masonic bodies of Greene, and of Malta Commandery, K. T., of Binghamton. Dr. Houghton married, in 1902, Nellie Whitley.4
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S235] U.S. Census, US Census, 1870, Sidney, Delaware Co., NY, Box 924, p. 410B, line 12, dwl 10-10.
  2. [S235] U.S. Census, 1860 US Census, Sidney, Delaware Co., NY, Box 744, p. 601, line 11, dwl 730-713.
  3. [S415] E-mail from Loren B. Houghton, Mar 21, 2004.
  4. [S654] Electronic Web Site, , http://homeopathy.wildfalcon.com/archives/2008/03/12/… Sue Young Homeopathy
    The website of a London based homeopath.
  5. [S95] Newspaper, New York Times Archives: May 3, 1909.
  6. [S1229] 1880 U.S. Federal Census , Otsego, Otsego, New York; Roll: T9_916; Family History Film: 1254916; Page: 334C; Enumeration District: 112; sheet 27, line 27, dwl 318-323.
  7. [S95] Newspaper, NY Times Archives: Mar 4, 1881.
  8. [S95] Newspaper, Deaths from the New York Post , 1801-1890 - Gertrude A. Barber, 1933.
  9. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.
  10. [S654] Electronic Web Site, , www.germangenealogy.group.com.

George H. Houghton1

M, #58196

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Residencebetween 1888 and 1889Brooklyn, Kings Co., NY, USA, a clerk1
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Brooklyn, New York Directories, 1888-1890, Sep. 26, 2001.

Lafayette Houghton Bunnell M.D.

M, #58197, b. 1824, d. 1903

Family: Sarah H. Smith b. Mar 1824, d. 1902

  • Marriage*: Lafayette Houghton Bunnell M.D. married Sarah H. Smith on 1859.

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Birth1824Rochester, NY, USA2
Marriage1859
Mil. EnlsWI, USA, of the Mariposa Battalion, one of the discoverers of the Yosemite Valley; late surgeon 36th Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers
Author1880Los Angeles, Los Angeles Co., CA, USA, Author:      Bunnell, Lafayette Houghton, 1824-1903.
Title:      Discovery of the Yosemite, and the Indian War of 1851, which led to that event / by Lafayette Houghton Bunnell.
Imprint:      Chicago : Fleming H. Revell, [1880]
Description:      331 p. : ill; 21 cm.

Discovery of the Yosemite and the Indian War of 1851 with led to that event, G.W. Gerlicher, 1911

Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1880-1892, by L. H. BUNNELL,
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.

This reprint of the single most important original source regarding the early history of Yosemite Valley was long out of print. Written by the medical officer of the Mariposa Battalion, the first group of Euro-Americans ever to enter Yosemite Valley, the book chronicles a number of key historical events beginning in 1851 including discovery, the Yosemite Indian conflicts, the naming of various landmarks and more. And what makes it so valuable is Dr. Bunnell's first-person perspective.2
Death1903Homer, MN, USA2
BiographyDiscovery of the Yosemite, and the Indian war of 1851, which led to that event. By Lafayette Houghton Bunnell. Lafayette Houghton Bunnell (1824-1903) was a member of the Mariposa Battalion that became the white discoverers of the Yosemite Valley in 1851 when they rode out in search of Native American tribal leaders involved in recent raids on American settlements. Dr. Bunnell later served as a surgeon in the Civil War. Discovery of the Yosemite, and the Indian war of 1851 (originally published 1880) contains his account of that event, beginning with the history of the battalion and the tribal unrest that inspired its creation. He goes on to chronicle the unit's march from its camp near Agua Fria into the mountains down the South Fork of the Merced River. Bunnell recalls his comrades' reactions to the natural grandeur they encountered in the Yosemite Valley as well as the trivia of camp life and encounters with the native tribes they were sent to pacify. The book concludes with chapters of the Valley's history after 1851, discussions of the region's flora and fauna, and a chapter on the discovery of the sequoias and their later exploitation.

From introduction:
Born in Rochester, New York, in 1824, and carried to Western wilds in 1833, the writer's opportunities for culture were limited; and in this,
his first attempt at authorship, he has found that the experiences of frontier life are not the best preparations for literary effort. Beside
this, he had mainly to rely upon his own resources, for nothing could be obtained in the archives of California that could aid him. It was not
deemed just that California should forget the deeds of men who had subdued her savages, and discovered her most sublime scenery. Having been a member of the "Mariposa Battalion," and with it when the Yosemite was discovered, having suggested its name, and named many of the principal objects of interest in and near the valley, it seemed a duty that the writer owed his comrades and himself, to give the full history of these events. Many of
the facts incident thereto have already been given to the public by the author at various times since 1851, but these have been so mutilated or
blended with fiction, that a renewed and full statement of facts concerning that remarkable locality seems desirable.

While engaged upon this work, the writer was aided by the scientific researches of Prof. J. D. Whitney, and by the "acute and helpful
criticism" of Doctor James M. Cole of Winona, Minnesota.

Since the publication of the second edition of this book, and an article from the author's pen in the Century Magazine for September, 1890,
numerous letters of approval from old comrades have been received, and a few dates obtained from old official correspondence that will now be
introduced.

In addition to what may properly belong to this history, there have been introduced a few remarks concerning the habits and character of the
Indians. This subject is not entirely new, but the opinions expressed are the results of many years acquaintance with various tribes, and may be
useful.

The incidental remarks about game will probably interest some. To the author, the study of nature in all its aspects has been interesting.

The author's views regarding the gold deposits and glaciers of the Sierras are given simply as suggestions.

His especial efforts have been directed to the placing on record events connected with the discovery of the Yosemite, for description of its
scenery he feels to be impossible. In reverent acknowledgment of this, there are submitted as a prologue, some lines written while contemplating
the grandeur of his subject.

-----

"Lafayette Houghton Bunnell (1824-1903) proposed the name of Yosemite Valley and also named many other features in and near the valley. Bunnell was born in Rochester, NY, served in the Mexican War, and came to California in 1849. As a member of the Mariposa Battalion, he was one of the first white men to enter Yosemite Valley, on March 27, 1851. Bunnell's book, Discovery of the Yosemite, and the Indian War of 1851, which led to that event, went through four editions between 1889 and 1911.

Bunnell Point was formerly called 'Sugarbowl Dome;' it was renamed shortly before 1920. (Hall, 82. The unnamed dome 0.7 mile west, on the other side of the Merced River, has also been known as 'Sugarbowl Dome.') The BGN approved the names 'Bunnell Point' and 'Bunnell Cliff' in 1912. The latter name has not been used on maps. Bunnell Cascade (mistakenly spelled with on 'l' on the Merced Peak quad), on the Merced River at the head of Lost Valley, also had earlier names: 'Washburn Cascade,' 'Diamond Shower Fall,' and 'Little Grizzly Falls.' The present name was approved by a BGN decision in 1932."
- Peter Browning, Yosemite Place Names



LAFAYETTE HOUGHTON BUNNELL
Several correspondents have asked me about Lafayette Houghton Bunnell, one of the discoverers of the Yosemite Valley. He was
descended from William Bunnell, the immigrant, through Benjamin, Benjamin, Gershom, and Job to his father Dr. Bradley Bunnell, who
married Charlotte Houghton. Although Lafayette has no direct
descendants, since he never had any children of his own, his career was
so interesting as to warrant including an account of it in the
Newsletter.
His father was a physician, a native of Fairfield co, CT; his mother
was born in Vermont. They married in Vermont and began to raise a
family there. They are said to have had twelve children, six of whom
grew to adulthood. By 1814 they had moved to Homer, Cortland co, NY,
where Lafayette's older brother Willard Bradley was born. The 1820
census found them in Barre, Genesee (now Orleans) co, NY. Their next
move took them to Rochester, Monroe co, NY. Lafayette Houghton Bunnell
was born there 13 March 1824.
They were still living in Rochester when the 1830 census was taken, but
two or three years later Dr. Bunnell removed his family to Detroit, MI.
Here, on the edge of the frontier, Lafayette grew up, acquiring, along
with an education in the classics, a useful knowledge of the customs
and language of the Chippewa Indians.
Bradley Bunnell wanted Lafayette to follow in his own footsteps and
become a doctor. When he was 16 years old, after a short experience
working as a salesman and collector for a pharmaceutical company,
Lafayette reluctantly began to study medicine in his father's office.
He endured this for a couple of years, then followed his trader brother
Willard to Wisconsin, and took up 160 acres at Lacrosse.
He came back to Detroit in 1844 and entered the office of a Dr.
Scoville, to continue the study of medicine. His studies were
interrupted by the Mexican War. On 2 November 1847 he enlisted in
Company B, First Regiment, Michigan Volunteer Infantry, and was
mustered in as a Hospital Steward. The DETROIT SOCIETY OF GENEALOGICAL
RESEARCH MAGAZINE, Vol. 41, #1, Fall 1977, has the following:
"Descriptive Roll of the First Regiment of Michigan Volunteers 1847-
1848: Lafayette H. age 25 years. Height 5'10". Light complexion,
dark eyes and hair. Born in Rochester, N. Y. Druggest. Appointed
Hospital Steward 12 Nov. 1847."
Lafayette did not participate in any of the engagements of the war,
since he did not enlist until after the termination of hostilities.
The American forces were in complete control of all Mexican strong
points by the end of October 1847. The War Department records show
that Lafayette Bunnell was a hospital steward at Cordova. One account
states, "During the illness of the doctors, he had entire charge of the
hospital at Cordova, Mexico, for a time, and at the close of the war he
had medical charge of one battalion." I have not found confirmation
for this statement, but a comment on page 357 of THE MEXICAN WAR, by
Edward D. Mansfield, 10th edition, 1849, lends credence to it: "Fifty
thousand men remained in service, chiefly in Mexico, from the 1st of
January, 1848, till the 1st of July, 1848. In this time, the hospitals
were full of the sick, many of whom died."
Page 16
Lafayette Houghton Bunnell (Cont'd)
Lafayette Bunnell was mustered out of the service with his company on
26 July 1848. He later demonstrated a working knowledge of the Spanish
language, which was probably acquired during his service in Mexico.
In January 1848, while Lafayette was in Mexico, gold was discovered at
Sutter's Mill in California. As soon as he was mustered out, he
traveled on to California to begin placer mining in the creeks and
rivers in Mariposa co, CA. The 1850 census found him there and listed
him as age 27, born in New York. (An Isaac B. Bonnell, age 27, born in
Pennsylvania, is also listed in the 1850 census in Mariposa co, but I
have not been able to determine who he was.)
During the year 1850 the miners in Mariposa co were exposed more and
more to the depredations of the Indians. Resenting the steady takeover
of their lands by the white gold hunters and settlers, the Indians
sporadically raided trading posts and mining camps, murdering the
occupants and carrying off as plunder whatever they found of value.
They developed a strong taste for the flesh of horses and mules, and
Lafayette, himself, lost all of his animals to one of their raids. "No
horse was considered too valuable for them to eat," was his comment.
In response, aid was requested of the State, and the governor issued a
proclamation calling for the enrollment of first 100, then 200, ablebodied
volunteers. Most of the miners in Mariposa co, including
Lafayette Bunnell, enlisted in what became known as the "Mariposa
Battalion." The volunteers had to provide their own mounts and
equipment, and the state furnished camping gear and supplies. They
were mustered in on 24 January 1851 and reported for duty on 10
February. They elected their own officers, who were then commissioned
by the governor.
The brigade was placed under the direction of the United States Indian
Commissioners, who negotiated with the various tribes, offering food
and supplies if the Indians would settle peacably on lands designated
for them. The brigade was given the job of searching the mountains and
bringing in the Indians who refused to come in voluntarily.
It was on one of these missions, in late March 1851, that a selected
group of 50 or 60 of the volunteer soldiers became the first white men
to enter the Yosemite Valley. The spectacular natural beauty of the
scene which met his eyes created an impression of almost religious awe
in Lafayette Bunnell. "My devout astonishment at the supreme grandeur
of the scenery by which I was surrounded continued to engross my mind."
Although the exalted emotion of his first experience of the Valley did
not recur in the many other trips he made there, Lafayette never lost
the feeling of wondering admiration for the glorious natural beauty of
Yosemite. Many years later he published his account under the title,
"Discovery of The Yosemite, and the Indian War of 1851 Which Led to
that Event."
As the men were seated around the campfire after supper on their first
night in the Valley, Lafayette raised the question of what to call it.
Several names were proposed, but none received general approval.
Lafayette then suggested that it be named "Yosemity," the name of the
Page 17
Lafayette Houghton Bunnell (Cont'd)
local Indian tribe their troop was seeking to remove. Acclaimed by a
voice vote, the name "Yosemite" still commemorates a small Indian tribe
to whom the Valley once was home.
Many of the natural features of the Valley bear names today which were
first applied by Lafayette Bunnell. His interest in nomenclature led
him to search out the Indian names and their meanings. When he did not
feel the Indian name was appropriate in either the original or in
translation, he chose a descriptive English name.
Lafayette was known as "Doc" to his companions. Although he was not
one of the battalion surgeons (and was not an MD at all), he did
perform some medical services and received extra pay for doing so. In
his history he mentions the damage to his medical and surgical supplies
when he received a dunking in a mountain stream. He also refers to his
treating and caring for a wounded comrade.
The Battalion was mustered out on 25 July 1851 and its members returned
to their former occupations. For the next several years Lafayette
Bunnell engaged in mining and trading operations. In partnership with
E. G. Barton he established a trading post on the north side of the
Merced River above the mouth of the North Fork, from which they served
the miners from a wide area. During the winter of 1853-54, their store
was plundered by Indians, and the two employees who had been left in
charge for the winter were murdered.
During the summers of 1854, 1855 and 1856, Lafayette took part in
surveying operations testing the possibility of bringing water from the
Merced River down to mining areas in Tuolumne co. In 1856, after the
completion of his survey work, he engaged, with George W. Coulter and
others, in building "The Coultersville Free Trail," into Yosemite
Valley. Apparently he invested money in this operation, for he said he
never got any return for it.
Before the end of 1856 Lafayette wound up his affairs in California and
moved back home. On 24 August 1859, at Homer, Winona co, MN, he was
married by Rev. John Quigley to Miss Sarah A. Smith. The marriage was
witnessed by his brother and sister-in-law, Willard B. and Matilda
Bunnell.
The next period for which we have information includes the years of his
Civil War service. Hank Johnston says that he served in both the First
and Second Battles of Bull Run, and that he was present at Appomattox
at the end of the war. His regiment took part in the First Battle of
Bull Run on 21 July 1861, and Lafayette was presumably with it.
However, he was no longer in the Army when the Second Bull Run took
place on 29 August 1862. He was back in service at the time of the
surrender at Appomattox, but I have not seen evidence as to where he
was serving at the time.
He enlisted the first time on 18 April 1861, at Lacrosse, WI, in
Company B, 2nd Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, as a hospital
steward. He served until 9 May 1862, when he was discharged at
Falmouth, VA, apparently on account of bronchitis, for which he
received a pension many years later.
Page 18
Lafayette Houghton Bunnell (Cont'd)
During the summer of 1863 he was employed by Major Hatch, of Hatch's
Battalion in gathering in and removing the Winnebago Indians to the
Missouri River. The service for which he was paid included medical
attendance.
On 4 November 1863, at Lacrosse, WI, Lafayette enlisted a second time,
as a private in Company B, 2nd Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Cavalry.
The following summer he was at Vicksburg, MS, caring for and putting
sick men on board steamers to be sent north by order of the medical
officers of the department. His company commander, Capt. Thomas J.
LaFlesh, later deposed that Private Bunnell became disabled on or about
31 July 1864 from exposure to the sun and over work while in the line
of duty. He was given sick leave beginning 21 August 1864, and he
returned to Wisconsin. He returned to Vicksburg when his sick leave
terminated on 30 November 1864.
While he was home in Wisconsin, he finally received his degree as
Doctor of Medicine. It was granted on 2 October 1864 by The Lacrosse
Medical College of Lacrosse, WI. Although his diploma implies that he
took courses at the College and states that he was tested by the
professors, the Lacrosse Medical College never held any classes nor
actually graduated anyone. I suppose we would call it an honorary
degree. In Lafayette's case, however, his years of study with his
father and Dr. Scoville, combined with all his practical experience,
would seem to have justified the degree.
The new degree paid off several months after his return to the Army.
On 19 March 1865 he was promoted to Assistant Surgeon in the 36th
Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers. In that position he was mustered out
of the Army with his regiment on 12 July 1865.
Lafayette's brother Willard had died in 1861 and left him his home in
Homer, Winona co, MN, across the Mississippi from Lacrosse, WI. The
1870 census found Lafayette and Sarah living there engaged in farming.
They had no children of their own, but his 12-year-old nephew Willard
Bradley Bunnell, Jr., was living with them.
Sometime during the ensuing decade, concerned that the true story of
the Mariposa Battalion and Yosemite had not been told, he compiled his
best-known work, DISCOVERY OF THE YOSEMITE AND THE INDIAN WAR OF 1851
WHICH LED TO THAT EVENT. The book was published in 1880 and was
successful enough to call for second and third revised editions by
1892.
Lafayette Bunnell received several pensions based on his military
service. On 21 June 1881 pension #191,126 was issued providing him
$4.00 per month from 10 May 1862, when he was discharged the first time
for bronchitis, but excluding the period of his second enlistment
between 4 November 1863 and 12 July 1865.
In 1887 congress provided for pensions for veterans of the Mexican War.
Lafayette applied, and pension #8346 was approved for $8.00 per month
from 29 January 1887. His first pension was then dropped.
Page 19
Lafayette Houghton Bunnell (Concl'd)
On 20 October 1890, after Congress passed a law providing pensions for
invalid veterans of the Civil War, whether or not their disabilities
were service related, Lafayette's pension #191,126 was reinstated at
$12.00 per month. It was paid for the rest of his life.
He was still living in Homer, MN, when the 1900 census gave his
occupation as "author." Besides his book about Yosemite, he had
written a number of magazine and newspaper articles, as well as WINONA
AND ITS ENVIRONS ON THE MISSISSIPPI, almost 700 pages of information
about Winona co, MN.
Lafayette Houghton Bunnell died at his home in Homer, MN, on 22 July
1903, nearly 80 years old.
For those who would like to read his book on the discovery of the
Yosemite, it has been recently reprinted by the Yosemite Association.
It can be ordered for $12.95 from the Yosemite Bookstore, Yosemite
National Park, CA 95389. I found it well worth the money.3
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S1464] Unknown editor, Bunnell/Bonnell Newsletter, p. 16.
  2. [S654] Electronic Web Site, , American Antiquarian Society Online Catalog: http://catalog.mwa.org/
  3. [S654] Electronic Web Site, , http://www.webroots.org/library/usahist/dotyaiw0.html

Silas Dexter May1

M, #58198, b. circa 1818

Family: Salome Houghton

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Birthcirca 18182
MarriageOct, 18652
Marriage(2) Hannah Goodwin2
ParentsSSilas May and Pamelia Wyman; lived in Salem MA and later Concord, VT, where he is buried; this May family from Bristol Co., MA3
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Sons of the Utah Pioneers-A Genealogy of the Descendants of John May Who Came from England to roxbury in America 1640, Bristol County Branch, Sep. 26, 2001, p. 133.
  2. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Sons of the Utah Pioneers-A Genealogy of the Descendants of John May Who Came from England to roxbury in America 1640, Bristol County Branch, Sep. 26, 2001.
  3. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Sons of the Utah Pioneers-A Genealogy of the Descendants of John May Who Came from England to roxbury in America 1640, Bristol County Branch, Sep. 26, 2001, p. 130.

Salome Houghton1

F, #58199

Family: Silas Dexter May b. c 1818

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
MarriageOct, 18651
ResearchNo other Salome Houghton fits her probable birthdate circa 1818; Houghton Project has no Salome Houghton whose maiden name was Houghton; all 4 Salome Houghton were Houghtons by marriage.
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Sons of the Utah Pioneers-A Genealogy of the Descendants of John May Who Came from England to roxbury in America 1640, Bristol County Branch, Sep. 26, 2001.
  2. [S882] Ancestry.Com, online www.ancestry.com, Sons of the Utah Pioneers-A Genealogy of the Descendants of John May Who Came from England to roxbury in America 1640, Bristol County Branch, Sep. 26, 2001, p. 133.

Daniel Houghton1

M, #58200

Family: Susan M. Loflin

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Marriage18981
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S415] E-mail from Liz Moore, e-mail address, Aug. 17, 2001.