I have observed that my ancestors from a certain generation were notable or influential in their time. All are my great-great-great grandfathers from both maternal and paternal sides:
Orrin Bishop Judd, 1816-1892 (my paternal 3X great grandfather)
A famous preacher in the Baptist Church in Hartford, Connecticut. He authored several books, including a translation of the Bible, and wrote the foreword in several other books. He was a trustee at Colgate University (his 1st wife was Maria Colgate), and his descendants followed this tradition. He became notorious during a highly publicized divorce scandal - front page news! Elizabeth (my 3X great grandmother) eventually committed suicide over losing her children in the divorce. Orrin then married Susanna, the housekeeper who was his co-conspirator in the purported abuses against Elizabeth.
Joseph Bucklin Bosworth, 1790-1850 (my maternal 3X great grandfather)
Leader in the Mormon Church and close friend to Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church in America. His preaching is well-documented, his "visions" recounted, and his name can be found in Joseph Smith's diaries. Joseph Smith wrote, "Bro. Bozworth was strong in the faith - he is a good man, and may, if faithful, do much good." He was born in Providence, RI, and fought in the War of 1812. He died in Illinois.
John C. Abbott, 1815-1989 (my paternal 3X great grandfather)
Award-winning piano-maker; established a piano factory in NY City. All of his brothers came to America to work with him. Possibly the son of John Abbott, a famous "music table" maker in London. Later opened the Abbott and Sons piano parts factory in Palisades Park, NJ.
John Dillingham, 1773-1861 (my maternal 3X great grandfather)
Pioneer, born in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, traveled through Ohio to Indiana. A first settler in the township of Liberty, Indiana. Fought in the War of 1812. Well known especially for his hospitality to travelers. "Dillingham" is a prevalent place name to this day in Liberty.
Capt. Jacob Wandell, 1779-1868 (my maternal 3X great grandfather)
A 2nd generation Dutch settler in NY City - son of the wealthy and prosperous shipping magnate, Jacob Wandell, also born of the famous Stillwell family in NY. Parents were connected to the famous Vanderbilts. Fought in the War of 1812, but apparently deserted. Worked as a mariner on the Hudson River. Buried in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.
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