Abraham George Yerdon, Sr.

Ogdensburg Journal - September 9, 1890

Abram G. Yerden died August the 23d, 1890 in his eighty-second year of age. He was born in the town of Meriden, Montgomery County, NY, Dec 8, 1808. At the age of 23 he married Leah Vroman, who was born in the same town. Two children were born to them while living in Meriden. In 1835 he took his wife and two children and started for Black Lake, St. Lawrence NY. He reached the place of destination at the close of the third day. In the spring 1836 he bought and settled on what is known as the Geo. McLear farm.

At this date the greater part of Morristwon was a wilderness. During the first year he lived almost exclusively on corn bread and potatoes. He was a carpenter by trade and built the first frame house and barn in that section of the town. He worked hard from the rising of the sun until the going down of the same for one dollar a day and boarded himself. After his days work he would toil until late in the night clearing up his farm. Finding it impossible to pay for this farm, he moved six miles south and took up another farm then an entire forest. Here he remained until his children, ten in number, 5 boys and five girls had grown to manhood. He cleared and paid for this farm, now known as the Nichol's farm. At this time his children were all married and away from home. As old age was creeping upon the lonely pair they felt in need of some one with them, so they adopted a grandson three years of age. In 1877 his wife died leaving him and grandson to battle with life alone. Finding it impossible to carry on the farm alone he sold out and bought a smaller farm in the town of Hammond. In May 1879 he married Maria Smith, widow of A. Smith, of Hammond. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were all with him and received his parting blessing (10 children, 38 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren). Mr. Yerden was very much respected by all. He loved his God and His holy word and was a constant attendant at Church. In politics he was a true republican.

• Reference: Find A Grave Memorial - SmartCopy: Jun 29 2021, 1:30:35 UTC