Biographical Sketch of

Sanford J. Straw

Transcribed by Sandy Boudrou



Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Green Lake, Marquette and Waushara Counties, Wisconsin, 
published 1890 by Acme Publishing Co., Chicago, Pages 545 - 546 


Sanford J. Straw, who is extensively engaged in farming on section 20 in the town of Oasis, Waushara 
County, where he owns 340 acres of land, was born in Hopkinton, N. H., Nov. 18, 1847, and is descended 
from one of the early New England families.  His parents, Rufus B. and Sarah (Gave) Straw, were also 
natives of New Hampshire, and the father and grandfather of our subject were born on the farm where 
Sanford J. first opened his eyes to the light of this world.  Rufus Straw was a shoemaker by trade and 
in connection with that business followed the occupation of farming.  The family numbered five children, 
of whom our subject is the eldest; Mary, deceased, was the wife of Sidney Rouse, Abbie is the wife of 
Daniel W. Robinson of Wautoma; Willie R. is a resident of Wautoma; and Albert B. is living on the old 
homestead farm.  Mr. Straw, Sr. is still a resident of this county and is one of its highly respected 
citizens; the parents were members of the Congregational Church and the children were reared in that faith.
 
Sanford J. Straw passed the days of his boyhood and youth in New Hampshire and his primary occupation, 
received in the district schools was supplemented by an academic course.  His father entering the army 
during the late war, he was compelled to leave school and take charge of the family which he managed 
with ability until his father's return.  He continued to reside in his native State until 1865 when he 
determined to cast his lot with the settlers of Wisconsin and became a resident of Wautoma, where he 
remained until spring of 1868.  His parents then came to the West and he aided them in securing a 
comfortable home.  On April 14, 1871, he was united in the holy bonds of matrimony with Miss Alida 
Jennings, a native of New York, who came to Wisconsin in 1855, with her parents, Samuel S. and 
Charlotte E. (Wood) Jennings, who were also natives of the same State, Mrs. Jennings was a grand-
daughter of Chief Justice Wood of New York, who paid Millard Fillmore's way through college and was 
afterwards his preceptor in the study of law.  He did much toward forming the character of the 
President by whom he was ever spoken of with gratitude.
 
Six children grace the union of Mr. and Mrs. Straw and the family circle yet remains unbroken: Rufus 
C. is now attending school in Kansas City; Nitta, Archie, Walter, Pearl and Nina are still at home.  
Mr. Straw has resided on his present farm since 1872, it first comprising 80 acres, but its boundaries 
have since been extended until it now consists of 340 acres under a high state of cultivation and well 
improved.  It is furnished with all the necessary buildings, is stocked with a good grade of stock and 
the entire surroundings indicate the care and supervision of a practical and progressive owner.  Mr. 
Straw and his family are believers in the faith of the Seventh Day Adventists and contribute liberally 
to the support of that Church.

 




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