My Genealogy Hound

JERRY ROURKE. This gentleman, who resides on section 21, Silver Creek Township, where he owns a fine farm, is one of the progressive and capable farmers of the locality, his farm attesting by its thrift and productiveness the excellent qualities of thoroughness and system which mark the owner. He was born on section 10, this township, in 1853, and is the son of Timothy and Margaret (Hagerty) Rourke, and the grandson of Timothy Rourke, Sr. The latter was a native of the Green Isle of Erin, born on Castle Island, and there he was reared to mature years. He was married in his native country, reared a good-sized family, and became quite wealthy. All his life was passed on the Emerald Isle, and there his wife too received her final summons.

Timothy Rourke, Jr., was also a native of Ireland, and inherited the quick wit and agreeable manners of those of his nationality. He remained in his native country until he reached manhood, and then a great desire came over him to cross to the United States and become a wealthy and prominent farmer. Many of his countrymen were settling in the New World, and about 1838 he braved Neptune’s tender mercies and reached the American coast. He first made a settlement in the grand old State of Virginia, and as his means were limited at first, he worked out for other people. Later he went to Canada, but after a residence there of about three years he decided that the United States were good enough for him, and so returned, settling first in Kalamazoo. Later he came to Cass County, Mich., and with his brother-in-law purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land.

While residing in Canada he married Miss Margaret Hagerty, the daughter of William and Julia (Connell) Hagerty, and five children were born of this union: Anna, Julia and Timothy, who are deceased; Jerry, our subject; and Maggie. Mr. Rourke and family were members of the Catholic Church and liberal contributors to the same. In politics, he advocated the principles and policy of the Democratic party. He was a man possessed of much determination and energy, and at the time of his death, which occurred in 1857, had accumulated a fair fortune. His widow is still living and has now passed her three-score years and ten. She has been an invalid for some time.

Jerry Rourke grew to manhood in his native county, and like the average farmer boy received his education in the common schools. He early became familiar with the duties of farm life, and assisted his father in improving the home place until a young man. He then started out for himself and it was but natural perhaps that he should choose agricultural pursuits as his occupation in life. By industry and good management he became the owner of eighty acres of land and he now has a comfortable home. All his farming operations are conducted in a manner showing him to be progressive and well posted on all agricultural matters.

In the year 1886 he was chosen Supervisor, held that position four years, and in 1893 was again elected on the Democratic ticket. He was the first Democrat elected to that position in the township, and the capable and efficient manner in which he has discharged the duties of office has won him the admiration and respect of both parties.