Delaware County, NY Genealogy and History Site

From "Landmarks of Steuben County NY" by Harlo Hakes 1896
submitted by Annette Campbell, February 16, 2001
James B. Murdock
James B. Murdock, son of Edward and Elizabeth (Palmer) Murdock, was born January 2, 1814, in Courtright, Delaware County, NY, where his grandfather, John Murdock, was an early settler. Reared on the parental farm and educated in the common schools of his native town he befan teaching district school at the age of nineteen and continued in that occupation with unvarying success for about twelve years. About 1835 his father moved to Brookfield, Pa., adjoining the town of Troupsburg, Steuben County, NY, where the subject of this sketch resided for some time. Later James B. came to South Troupsburg, where in 1847 he built his present store and engaged in general merchandising, a business he has ever since carried on with almost uninterrupted success. He has also been heavily engaged in lumbering and farming and besides has been proprietor of a grist mill. He is one of the oldest general merchants in Steuben County, and has always won and retained the confidence and respect of all with whom he has had business relations.
Mr. Murdock early manifested a keen interest in public affairs in both Brookfield PA, and Troupsburg, seeking for what would advance the welfare of his town and its people. He represented Troupsburg on the board of supervisors in 1855, 1856, 1857, 1858 and 1862, and in that capacity served with rare ability and with great credit to both himself and his constituents. In 1871 he was elected member of assembly and in the Legislature held positions on several important committees.
Mr. Murdock was married to Miss Sarah L. Wombough. Their children were Jane E., born in 1838; William B., born in 1839; Edward P., born in 1841; Anna E., born in 1843; Henry W., born in 1845; Martha P., born in 1848; Emma, died in Infancy; Sarah A., born in 1850; and Mary P., born in 1853, deceased.

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