My Genealogy Hound

JOHN CURRAN, an energetic and enterprising citizen and thoroughly practical general agriculturist, owns a fine farm of two hundred and forty-four acres, pleasantly located upon section 15, Bertrand Township, Berrien County, Mich. The fertile land, well tilled, annually yields an abundant harvest, and the industry, thrift and excellent management of the owner of the homestead are evidenced by the substantial improvements, the attractive and commodious residence, the good barns and outbuildings. For many years our subject has been intimately connected with the local enterprises and swift advancement of the best interests of Berrien County. He is well known and commands the esteem and confidence of his old-time friends and fellow-townsmen. John Curran was born July 29, 1844, in Oswego, N. Y. His father, Patrick Curran, was a native of Ireland and emigrated to the United States when a young man. He settled in Oswego County on a farm. He had previously been married in Ireland, where the three eldest children were born.

The mother of our subject, Ellen (Allen) Curran, was, like her husband, a native of the Emerald Isle. The father and mother made their home in Oswego County until they removed to the farther West, and in 1846 journeyed to Bertrand Township, Berrien County. Here the father entered with renewed energy into the tilling of the soil and cultivated a farm for some years. He finally settled in Notre Dame, Ind., where he died in his seventy-eighth year. His wife remained on the old homestead after his demise. She was the mother of eight children, six of whom are now living. Our subject is the fifth child and third son and was but two years of age when he was brought by his parents to Michigan. He attended the schools of Bertrand Township, and also enjoyed the benefit of instruction at Notre Dame. Mr. Curran remained with his father until he had attained his majority, and two years later, January 8, 1865, was united in marriage with Miss Lucinda Blake, a native of Indiana and born in Jasper County.

Our subject and his estimable wife settled in Bertrand Township on section 16, and made their home there for two years, then removed to their present locality. Mr. Curran in 1868 purchased his present farm, which had at that time but few improvements and none of any special value. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Curran has been blessed by the presence of six children, three sons and three daughters. Mary E. is the wife of James Welsh, and resides in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Ind. Emma A., Thomas E., Laura, James and Frank are all at home. Mr. and Mrs. Curran and their family are leading factors in the social and benevolent enterprises of their locality. They are known as liberal givers in all matters tending to promote the public good, and are ever ready to extend a helping hand to others less fortunate than themselves. Politically, Mr. Curran is a Democrat and votes that ticket at National elections, but in local offices votes for the best man for the position, regardless of party considerations.