Pioneer history of Ingham County, compiled and arranged by Mrs. Franc L. Adams, secretary of the Ingham County pioneer and historical society.

WILLIAMSTON TOWNSHIP AND ITS HISTORY

837

Of the many people I became acquainted with, the lasting
friendships I have made during the past fifty-three years, I have
a keen remembrance. I regret that I cannot mention them all.
I can only sketch from memory a few that I think are the most
striking, made the greatest impression on me, and left, or will
leave, good results on the entire village. I will divide the people
I came in contact with into two clans, and in that way describe
them.
The largest clan in the sixties was the Waldo, Beeman, Taylor
clan. These families were rich and influential, had endured all
the privations and hardships of pioneer days until they had money
enough to enjoy the pleasures of life. And they did enjoy themselves. Their life was purely social, and the sober, serious things
were cast in the background. No churches, no schools or debating
societies entered into their scheme of enjoyment. The convivial
habits of pioneer days were not forgotten. nor were they carried to
excess. No socials, dances, political meetings or Fourth of July
celebrations were complete without them, as they put the pep
into these gatherings. Their sway continued until 1871, when
the building of the railroad brought the Crossmans, Dakins,
Healds, Whipples and Jessopps from Dansville. Another clan
was formed by the newcomers, who believed in schools, churches,
newspapers, etc., in their scheme of enjoyment. So the old clan
was broken up and its members scattered.
The next clan was the Williams' and Cases. Their leader was
Miles Williams, one of the founders of the village, who looked after
the credit and financial growth of their infant city. This clan
formed the granite foundation which financial storms never disturbed. Many a business man went to them for counsel and aid,
and if deserving always received it.
During the later development period, 1871 to 1885, they gave
freely for the building of churches, schools, etc., and were glad of
the opportunity to invest their money in something that would
lift the village out from the entanglement of social life and pleasure
into the solid and more lasting things.
The clan that led the musical talent was the Loranger family.
Every member was a musician and for years, or until the death of
Eli, the oldest, the Loranger band furnished the instrumental
music for all the dances and entertainments. I can see Eli with