Humphrey, Bissel, 1792-1855
Biography
Gen. Bissel Humphrey was born in Western New York in 1792. The origin of his generalship is unknown though he may have served in the War of 1812 based on the timeline of his life. He was a noted pioneer of the area and operated a stage coach business. He and his wife moved to Kalamazoo in 1845 so he might become more involved in his stage business out west. Gen. Humphrey became a fixture in the Kalamazoo community, participating in many Fourth of July celebrations and operating as a prominent benefactor of the Kalamazoo Fire Department. Gen. Humphrey died on April 10, 1855 of a sudden illness. He became the namesake of the building at the corner of Main St. and Portage St. in Kalamazoo a few weeks after his death on April 31.
Gender
- Males
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
General Bissel Humphrey Papers
This collection is comprised of materials relating to General Bissel Humphrey (approximately 1792 – 1855). The materials in this collection are from 1855 to 1861.
The ledger in this collection was written by George S. Clark, the executor of Gen. Humphrey’s estate. The ledger begins in August of 1855 and ends in January of 1861. The payments made include mortgages on properties held by the deceased, medical bills for his wife, funeral arrangements, and payments to individuals.