Biography of John Delaney

JOHN DELANEY Many of Michigan’s most enterprising citizens have emigrated to the United States from the Green Isle of Erin, bringing with them habits of industry, perseverance and economy. In the various occupations and professions they have gained a competency, or perchance wealth, while at the same time they have established for themselves an enviable reputation as citizens. Ottawa County contains a large number of farmers whose ancestry extends back through a long line of Irish forefathers, and in this class we present the name of John DELANEY, an agriculturist residing in Tallmadge Township. Born on the Emerald Isle in 1831, our subject is the son of Daniel and Hannah (CUDHY) DELANEY, being their eldest child. At the age of eight years, he accompanied his parents to America and settled with them in Dutchess County, New York, where the elder Mr. DELANEY followed the occupation of a gardener. There, John grew to manhood, receiving a common school education and afterward learning the trade of a blacksmith. In 1851, the family came to Michigan, and our subject stopped at Grand Rapids, where he learned the trade of a machinist. After spending three years in Grand Rapids, he proceeded to Chicago, where he spent the three following years. From Chicago, Mr. DELANEY went to the “Sunny South,” and secured employment in the city of New Orleans. So well was he pleased with this part of our country, and so profitable did his work prove, that he remained eleven years in New Orleans before returning to the North, in the latter part of 1871. After a visit of one month in Michigan, he once again proceeded Southward, and continued to live in New Orleans until the year 1884. His brother dying in Michigan about that time, he returned here in order to serve as administrator of the estate, and has ever since lived on the farm where he now resides. He engages in the cultivation of three hundred acres, raising wheat, hay and corn, and marketing his products in Grand Rapids. In February, 1864, Mr. DELANEY was united in marriage with Miss Alicia Madeline PROPHET, who was of English descent. After having become the mother of two children, this estimable lady passed from earth in October, 1868. Mr. DELANEY and his daughter, Hannah Barbara, reside at the old home, surrounded by all the comforts that enhance the pleasure of living. They belong to the Roman Catholic Church, and are firm in their allegiance to the doctrines of that religious organization. In politics, Mr. DELANEY is conservative, and usually casts his ballot for the candidate whom he deems best qualified for the office in questions, irrespective of political beliefs.

Portrait & Biographical Record of Muskegon & Ottawa Counties, Michigan 1893, Chicago: Biographical Publishing Company Pg. 216

Created: 12 August 2002
URL: http://ottawa.migenweb.net/biographies/1893/delaney.html