James S. Holleran

HOLLERAN, OCONNOR

Posted By: Michael Kearney (email)
Date: 1/12/2002 at 19:02:34

Portrait and Biographical Album of Whiteside Co. Illinois Chicago Chapman Brothers 1885 James Holleran, proprietor of the "Robinson House," the only first-class hotel in Fulton, was born in Co. Clare, Ireland, Dec. 26, 1843, and is the son of P.M. and Catharine Holleran. He emigrated with his parents to Canada West in 1848, and in 1855 came to Fulton, Ill. He engaged in steamboating as cabin boy and worked his way up to the position of Captain. He followed steamboating some 12 years and was known as an expert pilot and trustworthy officer. During the late war he was employed in the United States Naval service on the lower river. He built and operated a ferry between Fulton and Lyons for some years. He also conducted a bus line at Fulton. He was elected and served as City Marshall. In 1865 he engaged in the hardware business with John Downs, which connection continued til 1878, when he sold out and went to Orleans, Harlan Co. Nebraska. He built the "Central House" at Orleans and kept it two years, when he sold out and went to Red Cloud, where he kept the 'Valley House' till 1880. He then removed to Cascade, Iowa, and kept the "Holleran House" till the fall of 1884, when he removed to Fulton and purchased the 'Robinson House'. Mr. Holleran has made many important improvements in the house and premises, and now has a comfortable and testeful establishment, complete and first-class in all its appointments. He also has a good livry in connection with the house. He married at Fulton, May 28, 1865, to Miss Adelia Connor, daughter of P.H. and Ellen Connor. Mrs. H. was born at Dundas, Canada. They have four children. one son and three daughters: Minnie E., Frank L., Eva and Maduie I. Mr. and Mrs. Holleran are members of the Catholic Church. In politics Mr. H. is a Democrat. Mr. Holleran still owns his fine farm of 160 acres in Harlan Co. Nebraska, valuable city property in Red Cloud, a residence and five acres of land in Cascade, besides 20 lots. He is an enterpising business man, and, being ably assited by his intelligent and energetic wife, is bound to make the "Robinson House" a favorate stopping place with the travelling public.