William Hyde - St. Clair Co., MI (bio)
Biographical sketch of WILLIAM HYDE from the book entitled, "Biographical Memoirs of Saint Clair County, Michigan," published in 1903 by B. F. Bowen Publishers in Logansport, Indiana.
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This bio spans two (2) pages: 670-671
WILLIAM HYDE
William Hyde was born in the county of Wexford, Ireland, during one of the worst periods of famine and distress that that unfortunate country has ever known, 1849.He was the son of George and Alice (Connors) Hyde, who were of the well-to-do Irish peasantry, and who were already parents of four children.Considering the deplorable condition of the country, and the lack of anything in the way of hope that the future seemed to promise, it is no wonder that they began to consider ways and means whereby they could shield their offspring.A home in America seemed the only sure way.To that end, therefore, they began shaping their plans, but it was not until three years later that they were able to take passage in a sailing vessel, landing on the shores of Columbia.They came to St. Clair county and located in Emmett township and here Mr. Hyde purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land, built a small home, furnished it in a modest way and began to enjoy life in free America.Hard work, exposure to the rigors of a climate to which he was not accustomed and the miasmatic atmosphere of decaying vegetation soon told upon the rugged nature of the hardy Irishman and he died in 1855, less than three years after coming.George and Alice Hyde were the parents of nine children, Elizabeth, Richard, Robert, George, William, John, Emma, Alice and Mariah.The father’s death made it a bitter struggle for the bereaved widow, but she met it bravely and lived to express her approval of the lives of her noble sons and daughters.Of his father William Hyde remembers little, being but six years old when he died.His three older brothers were able to contribute to the support of the family, which was kept unbroken by the indomitable mother.William attended the district school and soon realized the responsibility that must devolve upon him and made the most of his opportunities for an education.He worked with his brothers and gladdened the heart of his mother by his industry, kind disposition and thrift.The boys cleared and improved the farm, cultivated the crop and reaped the harvest, each year adding a little to the family store.
In 1878 William Hyde was united in marriage to Miss Kate Breen, a lady of character and refinement, the daughter of Daniel and Mary (Casey) Breen.They were natives of Ireland who had settled in Emmett township.They were the parents of nine children, Hanora, Mary, John, Bridget, Henry, Margaret, Johanna, David and Kate.Mrs. Breen died in 1897.She is survived by her husband, who is stil hale and hearty, residing only a short distance from the home of his daughter.He was at one time the owner of three hundred and fifty acres of land, but much of this he has disposed of.He is, however, in comfortable financial circumstances.No children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hyde, nevertheless they have a happy home and pleasant surroundings.They own one hundred and twenty acres of land, nearly all of which is under cultivation.Mr. Hyde carries on farming and stock raising and is recognized as one of the most substantial farmers of Emmett township.What he has, has been made by his own industry and management.He is a Democrat, but has no craving for office.He and his wife are consistent members of the Catholic church and were among the liberal contributors toward the erection of the church recently built in Emmett, a structure that is among the magnificent edifices of the state.Personally and socially, Mr. and Mrs. Hyde are held in the highest esteem by their neighbors and acquaintances.
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PLEASE NOTE:I do not have any personal interest in researching the HYDE surname or the St. Clair county, Michigan location.I am merely posting a select number of the biographical sketches found in the above-referenced book *upon specific written request* as a service to the genealogical community; these transcriptions are intended for personal use and are not being done for profit.Please do not contact me with regard to research interests in the above as I have no personal ties.Thank you.