From an unknown history in New York

   Jacob Higgins was one of the earlier settlers of Franklin town, is well remembered by the pioneers. He was born near Ithica, N. Y., Oct. 2, 1802, and was there reared, receiving a good education. He taught school in New York in early life, and then went to Michigan, where he opened a store and was engaged in mercantile pursuits.  On Nov. 10, 1842, he there married Phebe Wisel, and seven years later came to Vernon (then known as Bad Ax) county, Wis., arriving May 10, 1849. He located at Liberty Pole, and immediately bought a quarter section of land on sections 25 and 26, town 12 range 5 west. He continued in mercantile pursuits, was also postmaster of what was then known as Bad Ax postoffice, and continued in that office until his death.  He held various town offices. In March, 1857, he removed his family on his farm one mile west of Liberty Pole, where he permanently settled, and was a prominent and well respected citizen up to his death, which occurred Sept. 4, 1858. Mrs. Higgins was born in Parma, Cattaraugas Co., N. Y., and removed to Indiana with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Higgins have two living children--Sidney, who was born in Steuben Co., Ind., Sept. 2, 1843, has always lived on the old homestead, married Lucy A., daughter of Jesse Davis, and early settler of this town. They have four children.  Judson the second son, was born in St. Joseph Co., Mich., Aug. 11,1845, married Alice Robson, and has four children.  Zuleima, the only daughter, was born at White Pigeon, Mich., Dec. 28, 1847, and died on the old homestead, Feb. 16, 1868.

 

Submited By: Arlene Goodwin
E-mail: agoodwin3731@home.com