My Genealogy Hound

ABRAM B. JOHNSON. The town of Romulus has been the birthplace of men and women distinguished in literature, art and science, and men who have periled their lives on the field of battle, with honor to themselves and to the country of their birth. It has likewise produced men and women who in a quiet, simple way have passed along life’s journey content to fill a small niche in the temple of fame, or, if need be, to pass to their graves unknown of men, but with the assurance that “up yonder” their good deeds are known and the record properly kept. Among the latter class may be mentioned Abram B. Johnson, who was born in the town of Romulus April 2, 1832, and who from early childhood toiled early and late, earned his bread by the sweat of his brow, lived in such a manner as to win the love and respect of those with whom he was associated, and when the final summons came passed to his reward.

Isaac Johnson, the grandfather of our subject, came to Seneca County from Orange County in a very early day. Here he purchased a tract of land, which he cleared and cultivated, and here passed the remainder of his life. His son, Stephen B. Johnson, was born in the town of Romulus and here grew to manhood. He married Maria Bray, and to them was born only one child, Abram B., the subject of this sketch. Stephen B. Johnson was a large land-owner in the town of Romulus, and in his day was very prominent in the affairs of his county. He was well known throughout its length and breadth, and was a highly respected citizen. His death occurred some years ago.

The subject of this sketch was reared on the home farm. In the summer he assisted in the farm work, and in the winter attended the district schools, remaining at home until his marriage. December 24, 1856, he married Miss Catharine Sayer, who was also a native of the town of Romulus, and a daughter of Edward Sayer, an early settler and highly respected citizen of the county. Four children came to bless their union: Clara, the wife of George Carroll, who resides in the town of Ovid; Stephen V. R., who is engaged in farming in the town of Ovid; and Luella and Mary, who are yet at home.

Soon after their marriage, the young couple took up their residence on the old homestead where our subject grew to manhood, and here they continued to reside until the death of Mr. Johnson, which occurred January 10, 1893. The farm, which comprised three hundred acres of excellent land, all in one body, was always kept in fine order and was one of the most productive farms in Seneca County. Here he carried on general farming, devoting his time to such products as he deemed the most profitable, and also extensively engaged in buying and selling stock for some years. His political affiliations were with the Democratic party, and although never an office-seeker, he was yet interested in the political questions of the day, and believed it the duty of every citizen to at least discharge his duties at the polls. His death was mourned not alone by his immediate family, but by a large circle of friends throughout the county.