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pg. 198 J. B. Hummer, farmer, sec 25, Morton Tp. (P.O. Mecosta), was born in New York, July 10, 1844. He is a son of George and Elizabeth (Swezey) Hummer, then resident in Chemung Co., N.Y., near Elmira. The family circumstances were such that Mr. Hummer received but a limited education. When he was but 17 years of age he enlisted at Elmira in Co. B, First Reg. N.Y. Cavalry, which was attached to the command of Gen. Phil Sheridan. Mr. Hummer was in action in 26 engagements, the last being at Cedar Creek. The father was also a soldier for the Union and was in the service one year, belonging to Co. D, 107th Reg. N.Y. Vol. Inf. He was in two battles, South Mountain and Antietam; he now resides on a farm adjoining his son's and is erecting a new frame house. In 1874 Mr. Hummer left the state of his nativity, came to Michigan and purchased 80 acres of unbroken forest, made a small clearing and established his home. He now has 20 acres under the plow. Mr. Hummer recently sold a part of his place with the intention of buying to better advantage. He is at present sexton of Greenwood cemetery, which lies adjoining his farm on the northwest; has been School Director four years, but recently resigned. He was married Dec. 2, 1871, to Lydia, daughter of Isaac and Mary Wood, of Bradford Co., Penn. They have had but one child - Owen, who died with diphtheria when eight years old. The pangs of their loss are still as keen as in the first freshness, and the memory of their only son will ever be cherished in the home made bright by his short life, and which is rendered more dear because he was for a brief period its light and joy. |