Stephen B. McCracken was born on September 30, 1824, in Oakland County, Michigan. He was the third of six brothers.
The Washtenaw Whig was started in 1847 by S. B. McCracken and for many years he continued to run it both as manager and editor.
In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a collector for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a clerk for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan.
The 1850 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 25, born about 1825, in Michigan, occupation is a printer; Lucinda McCracken, age 25, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 3, born in Michigan and Mary S. McCracken, age 1, born in Michigan.
The Local News and Advertiser was first issued on July 21, 1857. It was a five-column folio edited and published by Stephen B. McCracken. As its name indicates, it was designed as a local and advertising medium. It was well edited and received with favor by the public. It was independent in politics, but on August 25, 1858, it was purchased by Lorenzo Davis, who made it a republican paper. In January of 1859 the name was changed to Ann Arbor Local News and in August of that year E. A. Burlingame was associated with Mr. Davis and the name again changed, this time to Michigan State News. It was forced to suspend publication in 1863.
The 1860 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 34, born about 1826, in Michigan, occupation is a printer publisher, value of real estate is $800.00, value of personal estate is $300.00; Lucenda McCracken, age 33, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 13, born in Michigan; Mary S. McCracken, age 11, born in Michigan and William McCracken, age 8, born in Michigan.
U.S., Civil War Draft Registrations Records, 1863-1865
Name: Stephen B. McCraken
Residence: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Class: 1
Congressional District: 3rd
Age on July 1, 1863: 34
Estimated birth year: abt 1829
Race: White
Marital Status: Married
Place of Birth: New York
The Shrapnel.....A weekly campaign paper published in 1864 by Stephen B. McCracken, was designed to represent the more ultra or radical Democratic sentiment of the period. It was commenced the last of July and continued through the campaign. The history of Detroit and Michigan: or, the metropolis illustrated; a chronological cyclopedia of the past and present, including a full record of territorial days in Michigan and the annals of Wayne County. By Silas Farmer.
This legislature was very fortunate in the character of the representatives of the press sent to record its daily doings. Stephen B. McCracken, who had represented the Free Press in 1867, was now the agent of the State Associated Press and was for many years afterward a regular attendant upon legislative sessions. Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society, Historical Collections, Volume 32.
The 1870 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 44, born 1826, in New York, keeping house; May McCracken, age 19, born 1851, in Michigan and Wm. R. McCracken, age 18, born about 1852, in Michigan.
S. B. McCracken edited and published "Michigan and The Centennial" in 1876.
The 1880 United States Census places the McCracken family in South Bend, St. Joseph, Indiana. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 56, born 1824, in New York, occupation is at home, marital status is D (Divorced), father's birthplace is England, mother's birthplace is England and William R. McCracken, age 28, single and is a printer.
Fifty Years Ago And Now, by S. B. McCracken for the Oakland County Pioneer Society, 1887.
S. B. McCracken was present at the initial meeting of the Michigan Society of the Sons of the American Revolution held in Detroit, January 18, 1890. Year book of the societies composed of descendants of the men of the Revolution, 1890.....by Henry Hall.
S. B. McCracken wrote an article (THE PRESS OF MICHIGAN - A FIFTY YEARS’ VIEW)for the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society. Read at the annual meeting of the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society, June 3, 1891.
In 1893 Stephen B. McCracken is listed in the Detroit, Michigan Business Directory as a Journalist, 133 Buhl Blk.
The 1900 United States Federal Census places Stephen McCracken in Detroit, Wayne, Michigan, age 75, born September 1824, in Michigan, father's birthplace is Pennsylvania, mother's birthplace is Connecticut, Stephen McCracken is widowed. Stephen McCracken is a lodger with the Shipman family.
Detroit in Nineteen Hundred: A Chronological Record of Events Both Local and State During the Closing Year of the Century. Edited by S. B. McCracken. Detroit, Michigan: Evening News Association, 1901.
Stephen McCracken died on August 3, 1902. The Certificate Of Death states that his mother's maiden name is Eunice Bromley.
DEATH OF S. B. McCRACKEN
S. B. McCracken, the veteran newspaper man, died at 5:45 yesterday afternoon of old age. He had been at Harper Hospital since June 5 and had been failing for the last two weeks. His physician, Dr. Duffield, said that old age was the direct cause of death.
One night about a year ago Mr. McCracken called at The Free Press office and after chatting with one of the editors handed to him a biographical sketch, with the following verse blue-penciled on it and signed "S. B. McCracken:"
"When we've shuffled off this mortal coil
And laid aside life's care and toil
If worthy deemed your page to grace
Be judge of matter and of space."
Stephen Bromley McCracken came of historic and revolutionary stock. His grandfather, Robert McCracken, was from the north of Ireland, settling in Pennsylvania. He was a soldier in the revolutionary war, and died from camp fever contracted in the service. His wife was Mary Hutchinson, a descendant of Sir John Hutchinson, who was a member of the parliament of the Commonwealth that condemned King Charles to the block. Her family, including the father of S. B., also named Robert, moved to Niagara Co., N. Y., in 1804. Robert was there married to Eunice Bromley, a native of Connecticut, and a descendant of Sir Thomas Bromley, who was president of the commission that condemned Mary Queen of Scots to the block.
S. B. was the third of six brothers, and was born September 30, 1824. His parents coming to Michigan a few months later, he ever since was a resident of the state. His early education was received in his father's log cabin near Pontiac, supplemented by about six months at a country school. The printing office, in which he became an apprentice at the age of 13, was his alma mater. Going to Ann Arbor in 1842, he was at different times during the succeeding twenty years publisher and editor of local papers at Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
Coming to Detroit in 1862, he was employed on the daily press, was legislative correspondent, clerk of committees, and compiler of various works, notably a statistical pamphlet in 1876 for distribution at the centennial exhibition, and later a quartor volume of 700 pages, entitled "Michigan and the Centennial." This later work left him prostrate in health and heavily involved financially, involving also in some hundreds of dollars a friend who had been his endorser. Speaking of this work he said: "Under the inspiration of the hour I undertook, alone and without means, a work that should have had capital behind it, with business management and a corps of editors. It came far short of my ideal, but it still has a value that will increase with the years." He held the office of justice of the peace and school inspector in the city, and for some years was the publisher of small compilations, especially his election law compilation, which has been of great service in the practical working of the ballot law of 1891.
During his residence at Ann Arbor he had a wife and a family of three children, who remained there upon his coming to Detroit. That his entire income, the fruit of his personal labor, was devoted each week to their support, he considered a sufficient answer to any who may have thought proper to pass an unfriendly judgment upon his action. Politically he acted with both of the great parties at different times, as occasion seemed to indicate. His tendencies in religious belief were toward the spiritualistic and theosophical. His occasional contributions to the press were read with interest, and he indulged some in verse, his most pretentious effort in this line being "The Migration of the Gods," dedicated to the Michigan section at the world's fair, 1983. Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 4, 1902; Pro Quest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922).
OBITUARY
S. B. McCracken died on August 3, 1902, aged 78 years. For many years he had been prominent in State Journalism and was present at "The Oaks" when the Republican party was formed. Later he came to Detroit, where for twenty-five years he was an occasional contributor to the press. His best remembered work was of a statistical nature. He compiled many reports for state and county use, especially a digest of election laws.
FUNERAL SERVICES
The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of Detroit Lodge No. 2, F. & A. M. of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased.
ASKED THAT HIS BODY BE CREMATED
Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 7, 1902; ProQuest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922) pg. 5. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of the Detroit Lodge No. 2. F & A. M of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased, who left a memorandum, part of which follows: "In case of my demise, which from indication cannot be faraway. I would like to have the Lodge attend to the disposition of my remains, but with particular regard to economy. I would prefer not to have an expensive casket, plumed hearse or any array of carriages, not any band or paid choir. I would like a little hymn to be sung beginning, "There is Rest for the Weary." I hope that no tears may be shed over my remains, and that the people may come and to with the same buoyant step and cheerful countenance as at a reception. The wishes of deceased were observed. Fred Walington sang "Friends" and "There is Rest for the Weary," the members of Detroit Lodge singing Pleyel's hymn. The accompanist was H. P. C. Stewart. Franklin H. Frazee, worshipful master of the Lodge, read the impressive Masonic Burial Service. The Holy Writings were carried by Jex Bardwell, the oldest member of the Lodge. The pallbearers were all members of Detroit Lodge, as follows: Geo. F. Krentier, Thomas Orr, Robert D. Stage, Fredeick Kruger, W. Parkes, and Thomas Clark. Nearly all those belonging to Detroit Lodge, who were present, were old men, one of whom has been a Mason for fifty years. William R. McCracken, a member of the editorial staff of the South Bend Times, arrived at noon to attend the funeral of his father. The remains were cremated and the ashes will be buried in the grave, with the remains of Mr. McCracken's son Robert, in the family plot in Pontiac.
The Washtenaw Whig was started in 1847 by S. B. McCracken and for many years he continued to run it both as manager and editor.
In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a collector for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a clerk for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan.
The 1850 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 25, born about 1825, in Michigan, occupation is a printer; Lucinda McCracken, age 25, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 3, born in Michigan and Mary S. McCracken, age 1, born in Michigan.
The Local News and Advertiser was first issued on July 21, 1857. It was a five-column folio edited and published by Stephen B. McCracken. As its name indicates, it was designed as a local and advertising medium. It was well edited and received with favor by the public. It was independent in politics, but on August 25, 1858, it was purchased by Lorenzo Davis, who made it a republican paper. In January of 1859 the name was changed to Ann Arbor Local News and in August of that year E. A. Burlingame was associated with Mr. Davis and the name again changed, this time to Michigan State News. It was forced to suspend publication in 1863.
The 1860 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 34, born about 1826, in Michigan, occupation is a printer publisher, value of real estate is $800.00, value of personal estate is $300.00; Lucenda McCracken, age 33, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 13, born in Michigan; Mary S. McCracken, age 11, born in Michigan and William McCracken, age 8, born in Michigan.
U.S., Civil War Draft Registrations Records, 1863-1865
Name: Stephen B. McCraken
Residence: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Class: 1
Congressional District: 3rd
Age on July 1, 1863: 34
Estimated birth year: abt 1829
Race: White
Marital Status: Married
Place of Birth: New York
The Shrapnel.....A weekly campaign paper published in 1864 by Stephen B. McCracken, was designed to represent the more ultra or radical Democratic sentiment of the period. It was commenced the last of July and continued through the campaign. The history of Detroit and Michigan: or, the metropolis illustrated; a chronological cyclopedia of the past and present, including a full record of territorial days in Michigan and the annals of Wayne County. By Silas Farmer.
This legislature was very fortunate in the character of the representatives of the press sent to record its daily doings. Stephen B. McCracken, who had represented the Free Press in 1867, was now the agent of the State Associated Press and was for many years afterward a regular attendant upon legislative sessions. Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society, Historical Collections, Volume 32.
The 1870 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 44, born 1826, in New York, keeping house; May McCracken, age 19, born 1851, in Michigan and Wm. R. McCracken, age 18, born about 1852, in Michigan.
S. B. McCracken edited and published "Michigan and The Centennial" in 1876.
The 1880 United States Census places the McCracken family in South Bend, St. Joseph, Indiana. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 56, born 1824, in New York, occupation is at home, marital status is D (Divorced), father's birthplace is England, mother's birthplace is England and William R. McCracken, age 28, single and is a printer.
Fifty Years Ago And Now, by S. B. McCracken for the Oakland County Pioneer Society, 1887.
S. B. McCracken was present at the initial meeting of the Michigan Society of the Sons of the American Revolution held in Detroit, January 18, 1890. Year book of the societies composed of descendants of the men of the Revolution, 1890.....by Henry Hall.
S. B. McCracken wrote an article (THE PRESS OF MICHIGAN - A FIFTY YEARS’ VIEW)for the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society. Read at the annual meeting of the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society, June 3, 1891.
In 1893 Stephen B. McCracken is listed in the Detroit, Michigan Business Directory as a Journalist, 133 Buhl Blk.
The 1900 United States Federal Census places Stephen McCracken in Detroit, Wayne, Michigan, age 75, born September 1824, in Michigan, father's birthplace is Pennsylvania, mother's birthplace is Connecticut, Stephen McCracken is widowed. Stephen McCracken is a lodger with the Shipman family.
Detroit in Nineteen Hundred: A Chronological Record of Events Both Local and State During the Closing Year of the Century. Edited by S. B. McCracken. Detroit, Michigan: Evening News Association, 1901.
Stephen McCracken died on August 3, 1902. The Certificate Of Death states that his mother's maiden name is Eunice Bromley.
DEATH OF S. B. McCRACKEN
S. B. McCracken, the veteran newspaper man, died at 5:45 yesterday afternoon of old age. He had been at Harper Hospital since June 5 and had been failing for the last two weeks. His physician, Dr. Duffield, said that old age was the direct cause of death.
One night about a year ago Mr. McCracken called at The Free Press office and after chatting with one of the editors handed to him a biographical sketch, with the following verse blue-penciled on it and signed "S. B. McCracken:"
"When we've shuffled off this mortal coil
And laid aside life's care and toil
If worthy deemed your page to grace
Be judge of matter and of space."
Stephen Bromley McCracken came of historic and revolutionary stock. His grandfather, Robert McCracken, was from the north of Ireland, settling in Pennsylvania. He was a soldier in the revolutionary war, and died from camp fever contracted in the service. His wife was Mary Hutchinson, a descendant of Sir John Hutchinson, who was a member of the parliament of the Commonwealth that condemned King Charles to the block. Her family, including the father of S. B., also named Robert, moved to Niagara Co., N. Y., in 1804. Robert was there married to Eunice Bromley, a native of Connecticut, and a descendant of Sir Thomas Bromley, who was president of the commission that condemned Mary Queen of Scots to the block.
S. B. was the third of six brothers, and was born September 30, 1824. His parents coming to Michigan a few months later, he ever since was a resident of the state. His early education was received in his father's log cabin near Pontiac, supplemented by about six months at a country school. The printing office, in which he became an apprentice at the age of 13, was his alma mater. Going to Ann Arbor in 1842, he was at different times during the succeeding twenty years publisher and editor of local papers at Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
Coming to Detroit in 1862, he was employed on the daily press, was legislative correspondent, clerk of committees, and compiler of various works, notably a statistical pamphlet in 1876 for distribution at the centennial exhibition, and later a quartor volume of 700 pages, entitled "Michigan and the Centennial." This later work left him prostrate in health and heavily involved financially, involving also in some hundreds of dollars a friend who had been his endorser. Speaking of this work he said: "Under the inspiration of the hour I undertook, alone and without means, a work that should have had capital behind it, with business management and a corps of editors. It came far short of my ideal, but it still has a value that will increase with the years." He held the office of justice of the peace and school inspector in the city, and for some years was the publisher of small compilations, especially his election law compilation, which has been of great service in the practical working of the ballot law of 1891.
During his residence at Ann Arbor he had a wife and a family of three children, who remained there upon his coming to Detroit. That his entire income, the fruit of his personal labor, was devoted each week to their support, he considered a sufficient answer to any who may have thought proper to pass an unfriendly judgment upon his action. Politically he acted with both of the great parties at different times, as occasion seemed to indicate. His tendencies in religious belief were toward the spiritualistic and theosophical. His occasional contributions to the press were read with interest, and he indulged some in verse, his most pretentious effort in this line being "The Migration of the Gods," dedicated to the Michigan section at the world's fair, 1983. Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 4, 1902; Pro Quest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922).
OBITUARY
S. B. McCracken died on August 3, 1902, aged 78 years. For many years he had been prominent in State Journalism and was present at "The Oaks" when the Republican party was formed. Later he came to Detroit, where for twenty-five years he was an occasional contributor to the press. His best remembered work was of a statistical nature. He compiled many reports for state and county use, especially a digest of election laws.
FUNERAL SERVICES
The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of Detroit Lodge No. 2, F. & A. M. of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased.
ASKED THAT HIS BODY BE CREMATED
Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 7, 1902; ProQuest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922) pg. 5. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of the Detroit Lodge No. 2. F & A. M of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased, who left a memorandum, part of which follows: "In case of my demise, which from indication cannot be faraway. I would like to have the Lodge attend to the disposition of my remains, but with particular regard to economy. I would prefer not to have an expensive casket, plumed hearse or any array of carriages, not any band or paid choir. I would like a little hymn to be sung beginning, "There is Rest for the Weary." I hope that no tears may be shed over my remains, and that the people may come and to with the same buoyant step and cheerful countenance as at a reception. The wishes of deceased were observed. Fred Walington sang "Friends" and "There is Rest for the Weary," the members of Detroit Lodge singing Pleyel's hymn. The accompanist was H. P. C. Stewart. Franklin H. Frazee, worshipful master of the Lodge, read the impressive Masonic Burial Service. The Holy Writings were carried by Jex Bardwell, the oldest member of the Lodge. The pallbearers were all members of Detroit Lodge, as follows: Geo. F. Krentier, Thomas Orr, Robert D. Stage, Fredeick Kruger, W. Parkes, and Thomas Clark. Nearly all those belonging to Detroit Lodge, who were present, were old men, one of whom has been a Mason for fifty years. William R. McCracken, a member of the editorial staff of the South Bend Times, arrived at noon to attend the funeral of his father. The remains were cremated and the ashes will be buried in the grave, with the remains of Mr. McCracken's son Robert, in the family plot in Pontiac.
Stephen B. McCracken was born on September 30, 1824, in Oakland County, Michigan. He was the third of six brothers.
The Washtenaw Whig was started in 1847 by S. B. McCracken and for many years he continued to run it both as manager and editor.
In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a collector for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a clerk for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan.
The 1850 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 25, born about 1825, in Michigan, occupation is a printer; Lucinda McCracken, age 25, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 3, born in Michigan and Mary S. McCracken, age 1, born in Michigan.
The Local News and Advertiser was first issued on July 21, 1857. It was a five-column folio edited and published by Stephen B. McCracken. As its name indicates, it was designed as a local and advertising medium. It was well edited and received with favor by the public. It was independent in politics, but on August 25, 1858, it was purchased by Lorenzo Davis, who made it a republican paper. In January of 1859 the name was changed to Ann Arbor Local News and in August of that year E. A. Burlingame was associated with Mr. Davis and the name again changed, this time to Michigan State News. It was forced to suspend publication in 1863.
The 1860 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 34, born about 1826, in Michigan, occupation is a printer publisher, value of real estate is $800.00, value of personal estate is $300.00; Lucenda McCracken, age 33, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 13, born in Michigan; Mary S. McCracken, age 11, born in Michigan and William McCracken, age 8, born in Michigan.
U.S., Civil War Draft Registrations Records, 1863-1865
Name: Stephen B. McCraken
Residence: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Class: 1
Congressional District: 3rd
Age on July 1, 1863: 34
Estimated birth year: abt 1829
Race: White
Marital Status: Married
Place of Birth: New York
The Shrapnel.....A weekly campaign paper published in 1864 by Stephen B. McCracken, was designed to represent the more ultra or radical Democratic sentiment of the period. It was commenced the last of July and continued through the campaign. The history of Detroit and Michigan: or, the metropolis illustrated; a chronological cyclopedia of the past and present, including a full record of territorial days in Michigan and the annals of Wayne County. By Silas Farmer.
This legislature was very fortunate in the character of the representatives of the press sent to record its daily doings. Stephen B. McCracken, who had represented the Free Press in 1867, was now the agent of the State Associated Press and was for many years afterward a regular attendant upon legislative sessions. Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society, Historical Collections, Volume 32.
The 1870 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 44, born 1826, in New York, keeping house; May McCracken, age 19, born 1851, in Michigan and Wm. R. McCracken, age 18, born about 1852, in Michigan.
S. B. McCracken edited and published "Michigan and The Centennial" in 1876.
The 1880 United States Census places the McCracken family in South Bend, St. Joseph, Indiana. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 56, born 1824, in New York, occupation is at home, marital status is D (Divorced), father's birthplace is England, mother's birthplace is England and William R. McCracken, age 28, single and is a printer.
Fifty Years Ago And Now, by S. B. McCracken for the Oakland County Pioneer Society, 1887.
S. B. McCracken was present at the initial meeting of the Michigan Society of the Sons of the American Revolution held in Detroit, January 18, 1890. Year book of the societies composed of descendants of the men of the Revolution, 1890.....by Henry Hall.
S. B. McCracken wrote an article (THE PRESS OF MICHIGAN - A FIFTY YEARS’ VIEW)for the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society. Read at the annual meeting of the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society, June 3, 1891.
In 1893 Stephen B. McCracken is listed in the Detroit, Michigan Business Directory as a Journalist, 133 Buhl Blk.
The 1900 United States Federal Census places Stephen McCracken in Detroit, Wayne, Michigan, age 75, born September 1824, in Michigan, father's birthplace is Pennsylvania, mother's birthplace is Connecticut, Stephen McCracken is widowed. Stephen McCracken is a lodger with the Shipman family.
Detroit in Nineteen Hundred: A Chronological Record of Events Both Local and State During the Closing Year of the Century. Edited by S. B. McCracken. Detroit, Michigan: Evening News Association, 1901.
Stephen McCracken died on August 3, 1902. The Certificate Of Death states that his mother's maiden name is Eunice Bromley.
DEATH OF S. B. McCRACKEN
S. B. McCracken, the veteran newspaper man, died at 5:45 yesterday afternoon of old age. He had been at Harper Hospital since June 5 and had been failing for the last two weeks. His physician, Dr. Duffield, said that old age was the direct cause of death.
One night about a year ago Mr. McCracken called at The Free Press office and after chatting with one of the editors handed to him a biographical sketch, with the following verse blue-penciled on it and signed "S. B. McCracken:"
"When we've shuffled off this mortal coil
And laid aside life's care and toil
If worthy deemed your page to grace
Be judge of matter and of space."
Stephen Bromley McCracken came of historic and revolutionary stock. His grandfather, Robert McCracken, was from the north of Ireland, settling in Pennsylvania. He was a soldier in the revolutionary war, and died from camp fever contracted in the service. His wife was Mary Hutchinson, a descendant of Sir John Hutchinson, who was a member of the parliament of the Commonwealth that condemned King Charles to the block. Her family, including the father of S. B., also named Robert, moved to Niagara Co., N. Y., in 1804. Robert was there married to Eunice Bromley, a native of Connecticut, and a descendant of Sir Thomas Bromley, who was president of the commission that condemned Mary Queen of Scots to the block.
S. B. was the third of six brothers, and was born September 30, 1824. His parents coming to Michigan a few months later, he ever since was a resident of the state. His early education was received in his father's log cabin near Pontiac, supplemented by about six months at a country school. The printing office, in which he became an apprentice at the age of 13, was his alma mater. Going to Ann Arbor in 1842, he was at different times during the succeeding twenty years publisher and editor of local papers at Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
Coming to Detroit in 1862, he was employed on the daily press, was legislative correspondent, clerk of committees, and compiler of various works, notably a statistical pamphlet in 1876 for distribution at the centennial exhibition, and later a quartor volume of 700 pages, entitled "Michigan and the Centennial." This later work left him prostrate in health and heavily involved financially, involving also in some hundreds of dollars a friend who had been his endorser. Speaking of this work he said: "Under the inspiration of the hour I undertook, alone and without means, a work that should have had capital behind it, with business management and a corps of editors. It came far short of my ideal, but it still has a value that will increase with the years." He held the office of justice of the peace and school inspector in the city, and for some years was the publisher of small compilations, especially his election law compilation, which has been of great service in the practical working of the ballot law of 1891.
During his residence at Ann Arbor he had a wife and a family of three children, who remained there upon his coming to Detroit. That his entire income, the fruit of his personal labor, was devoted each week to their support, he considered a sufficient answer to any who may have thought proper to pass an unfriendly judgment upon his action. Politically he acted with both of the great parties at different times, as occasion seemed to indicate. His tendencies in religious belief were toward the spiritualistic and theosophical. His occasional contributions to the press were read with interest, and he indulged some in verse, his most pretentious effort in this line being "The Migration of the Gods," dedicated to the Michigan section at the world's fair, 1983. Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 4, 1902; Pro Quest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922).
OBITUARY
S. B. McCracken died on August 3, 1902, aged 78 years. For many years he had been prominent in State Journalism and was present at "The Oaks" when the Republican party was formed. Later he came to Detroit, where for twenty-five years he was an occasional contributor to the press. His best remembered work was of a statistical nature. He compiled many reports for state and county use, especially a digest of election laws.
FUNERAL SERVICES
The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of Detroit Lodge No. 2, F. & A. M. of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased.
ASKED THAT HIS BODY BE CREMATED
Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 7, 1902; ProQuest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922) pg. 5. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of the Detroit Lodge No. 2. F & A. M of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased, who left a memorandum, part of which follows: "In case of my demise, which from indication cannot be faraway. I would like to have the Lodge attend to the disposition of my remains, but with particular regard to economy. I would prefer not to have an expensive casket, plumed hearse or any array of carriages, not any band or paid choir. I would like a little hymn to be sung beginning, "There is Rest for the Weary." I hope that no tears may be shed over my remains, and that the people may come and to with the same buoyant step and cheerful countenance as at a reception. The wishes of deceased were observed. Fred Walington sang "Friends" and "There is Rest for the Weary," the members of Detroit Lodge singing Pleyel's hymn. The accompanist was H. P. C. Stewart. Franklin H. Frazee, worshipful master of the Lodge, read the impressive Masonic Burial Service. The Holy Writings were carried by Jex Bardwell, the oldest member of the Lodge. The pallbearers were all members of Detroit Lodge, as follows: Geo. F. Krentier, Thomas Orr, Robert D. Stage, Fredeick Kruger, W. Parkes, and Thomas Clark. Nearly all those belonging to Detroit Lodge, who were present, were old men, one of whom has been a Mason for fifty years. William R. McCracken, a member of the editorial staff of the South Bend Times, arrived at noon to attend the funeral of his father. The remains were cremated and the ashes will be buried in the grave, with the remains of Mr. McCracken's son Robert, in the family plot in Pontiac.
The Washtenaw Whig was started in 1847 by S. B. McCracken and for many years he continued to run it both as manager and editor.
In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a collector for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. In 1849 Stephen B. McCracken served as a clerk for the town of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan.
The 1850 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 25, born about 1825, in Michigan, occupation is a printer; Lucinda McCracken, age 25, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 3, born in Michigan and Mary S. McCracken, age 1, born in Michigan.
The Local News and Advertiser was first issued on July 21, 1857. It was a five-column folio edited and published by Stephen B. McCracken. As its name indicates, it was designed as a local and advertising medium. It was well edited and received with favor by the public. It was independent in politics, but on August 25, 1858, it was purchased by Lorenzo Davis, who made it a republican paper. In January of 1859 the name was changed to Ann Arbor Local News and in August of that year E. A. Burlingame was associated with Mr. Davis and the name again changed, this time to Michigan State News. It was forced to suspend publication in 1863.
The 1860 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Stephen B. McCracken, age 34, born about 1826, in Michigan, occupation is a printer publisher, value of real estate is $800.00, value of personal estate is $300.00; Lucenda McCracken, age 33, born in New York; Robert G. McCracken, age 13, born in Michigan; Mary S. McCracken, age 11, born in Michigan and William McCracken, age 8, born in Michigan.
U.S., Civil War Draft Registrations Records, 1863-1865
Name: Stephen B. McCraken
Residence: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Class: 1
Congressional District: 3rd
Age on July 1, 1863: 34
Estimated birth year: abt 1829
Race: White
Marital Status: Married
Place of Birth: New York
The Shrapnel.....A weekly campaign paper published in 1864 by Stephen B. McCracken, was designed to represent the more ultra or radical Democratic sentiment of the period. It was commenced the last of July and continued through the campaign. The history of Detroit and Michigan: or, the metropolis illustrated; a chronological cyclopedia of the past and present, including a full record of territorial days in Michigan and the annals of Wayne County. By Silas Farmer.
This legislature was very fortunate in the character of the representatives of the press sent to record its daily doings. Stephen B. McCracken, who had represented the Free Press in 1867, was now the agent of the State Associated Press and was for many years afterward a regular attendant upon legislative sessions. Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society, Historical Collections, Volume 32.
The 1870 United States Federal Census places the McCracken family in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, Michigan. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 44, born 1826, in New York, keeping house; May McCracken, age 19, born 1851, in Michigan and Wm. R. McCracken, age 18, born about 1852, in Michigan.
S. B. McCracken edited and published "Michigan and The Centennial" in 1876.
The 1880 United States Census places the McCracken family in South Bend, St. Joseph, Indiana. Family members are Lucinda McCracken, age 56, born 1824, in New York, occupation is at home, marital status is D (Divorced), father's birthplace is England, mother's birthplace is England and William R. McCracken, age 28, single and is a printer.
Fifty Years Ago And Now, by S. B. McCracken for the Oakland County Pioneer Society, 1887.
S. B. McCracken was present at the initial meeting of the Michigan Society of the Sons of the American Revolution held in Detroit, January 18, 1890. Year book of the societies composed of descendants of the men of the Revolution, 1890.....by Henry Hall.
S. B. McCracken wrote an article (THE PRESS OF MICHIGAN - A FIFTY YEARS’ VIEW)for the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society. Read at the annual meeting of the Michigan, Pioneer and Historical Society, June 3, 1891.
In 1893 Stephen B. McCracken is listed in the Detroit, Michigan Business Directory as a Journalist, 133 Buhl Blk.
The 1900 United States Federal Census places Stephen McCracken in Detroit, Wayne, Michigan, age 75, born September 1824, in Michigan, father's birthplace is Pennsylvania, mother's birthplace is Connecticut, Stephen McCracken is widowed. Stephen McCracken is a lodger with the Shipman family.
Detroit in Nineteen Hundred: A Chronological Record of Events Both Local and State During the Closing Year of the Century. Edited by S. B. McCracken. Detroit, Michigan: Evening News Association, 1901.
Stephen McCracken died on August 3, 1902. The Certificate Of Death states that his mother's maiden name is Eunice Bromley.
DEATH OF S. B. McCRACKEN
S. B. McCracken, the veteran newspaper man, died at 5:45 yesterday afternoon of old age. He had been at Harper Hospital since June 5 and had been failing for the last two weeks. His physician, Dr. Duffield, said that old age was the direct cause of death.
One night about a year ago Mr. McCracken called at The Free Press office and after chatting with one of the editors handed to him a biographical sketch, with the following verse blue-penciled on it and signed "S. B. McCracken:"
"When we've shuffled off this mortal coil
And laid aside life's care and toil
If worthy deemed your page to grace
Be judge of matter and of space."
Stephen Bromley McCracken came of historic and revolutionary stock. His grandfather, Robert McCracken, was from the north of Ireland, settling in Pennsylvania. He was a soldier in the revolutionary war, and died from camp fever contracted in the service. His wife was Mary Hutchinson, a descendant of Sir John Hutchinson, who was a member of the parliament of the Commonwealth that condemned King Charles to the block. Her family, including the father of S. B., also named Robert, moved to Niagara Co., N. Y., in 1804. Robert was there married to Eunice Bromley, a native of Connecticut, and a descendant of Sir Thomas Bromley, who was president of the commission that condemned Mary Queen of Scots to the block.
S. B. was the third of six brothers, and was born September 30, 1824. His parents coming to Michigan a few months later, he ever since was a resident of the state. His early education was received in his father's log cabin near Pontiac, supplemented by about six months at a country school. The printing office, in which he became an apprentice at the age of 13, was his alma mater. Going to Ann Arbor in 1842, he was at different times during the succeeding twenty years publisher and editor of local papers at Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
Coming to Detroit in 1862, he was employed on the daily press, was legislative correspondent, clerk of committees, and compiler of various works, notably a statistical pamphlet in 1876 for distribution at the centennial exhibition, and later a quartor volume of 700 pages, entitled "Michigan and the Centennial." This later work left him prostrate in health and heavily involved financially, involving also in some hundreds of dollars a friend who had been his endorser. Speaking of this work he said: "Under the inspiration of the hour I undertook, alone and without means, a work that should have had capital behind it, with business management and a corps of editors. It came far short of my ideal, but it still has a value that will increase with the years." He held the office of justice of the peace and school inspector in the city, and for some years was the publisher of small compilations, especially his election law compilation, which has been of great service in the practical working of the ballot law of 1891.
During his residence at Ann Arbor he had a wife and a family of three children, who remained there upon his coming to Detroit. That his entire income, the fruit of his personal labor, was devoted each week to their support, he considered a sufficient answer to any who may have thought proper to pass an unfriendly judgment upon his action. Politically he acted with both of the great parties at different times, as occasion seemed to indicate. His tendencies in religious belief were toward the spiritualistic and theosophical. His occasional contributions to the press were read with interest, and he indulged some in verse, his most pretentious effort in this line being "The Migration of the Gods," dedicated to the Michigan section at the world's fair, 1983. Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 4, 1902; Pro Quest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922).
OBITUARY
S. B. McCracken died on August 3, 1902, aged 78 years. For many years he had been prominent in State Journalism and was present at "The Oaks" when the Republican party was formed. Later he came to Detroit, where for twenty-five years he was an occasional contributor to the press. His best remembered work was of a statistical nature. He compiled many reports for state and county use, especially a digest of election laws.
FUNERAL SERVICES
The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of Detroit Lodge No. 2, F. & A. M. of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased.
ASKED THAT HIS BODY BE CREMATED
Detroit Free Press (1858-1922); August 7, 1902; ProQuest Historical Newspapers Detroit Free Press (1831-1922) pg. 5. Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. The funeral services of the late Stephen B. McCracken were held yesterday afternoon in the chapel of the Detroit Crematory and were in charge of the Detroit Lodge No. 2. F & A. M of which Mr. McCracken was a member. The ceremonies were impressive, but simple, as requested by deceased, who left a memorandum, part of which follows: "In case of my demise, which from indication cannot be faraway. I would like to have the Lodge attend to the disposition of my remains, but with particular regard to economy. I would prefer not to have an expensive casket, plumed hearse or any array of carriages, not any band or paid choir. I would like a little hymn to be sung beginning, "There is Rest for the Weary." I hope that no tears may be shed over my remains, and that the people may come and to with the same buoyant step and cheerful countenance as at a reception. The wishes of deceased were observed. Fred Walington sang "Friends" and "There is Rest for the Weary," the members of Detroit Lodge singing Pleyel's hymn. The accompanist was H. P. C. Stewart. Franklin H. Frazee, worshipful master of the Lodge, read the impressive Masonic Burial Service. The Holy Writings were carried by Jex Bardwell, the oldest member of the Lodge. The pallbearers were all members of Detroit Lodge, as follows: Geo. F. Krentier, Thomas Orr, Robert D. Stage, Fredeick Kruger, W. Parkes, and Thomas Clark. Nearly all those belonging to Detroit Lodge, who were present, were old men, one of whom has been a Mason for fifty years. William R. McCracken, a member of the editorial staff of the South Bend Times, arrived at noon to attend the funeral of his father. The remains were cremated and the ashes will be buried in the grave, with the remains of Mr. McCracken's son Robert, in the family plot in Pontiac.
Family Members
Parents
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
Records on Ancestry
Advertisement
