Store at Kent, New York, built by Lewis Ludington and Frederick Ludington, c. 1808
Ludington's father, Henry Ludington of the Ludington family, was a soldier in the French and Indian War. Henry married his cousin Abigail on May 1, 1760. They had twelve children, all born in Kent, New York (then known as Fredericksburgh). Lewis was youngest, born on June 25, 1786. His sister, Sybil Ludington, was the oldest and born on April 5, 1761.[1]
Ludington was partners with his brother Frederick in a store near their home in Kent, New York.[2]
Bird's eye view of Columbus, Wisconsin, in Columbia County, c. 1868
Ludington entered into a deal with Elbert Dickason to improve land in Wisconsin Territory.[3][4] Dickason built a cabin on this land acreage along the Crawfish River and dammed up the river for a sawmill and gristmill.[3] Dickason was unable to meet his payments to Ludington and Ludington took back the property.[5][3]
Ludington's Plat was recorded on November 11, 1844 a plot of nine blocks,[3][6] and other additions were recorded through 1850.[7]
Beers (1905). Record of New London County. J.H. Beers & Company. His partners, who conducted the business (Mr. Ludington never resided in Wisconsin) were, Harrison Ludington, a nephew, afterward governor of Wisconsin, and Nelson Ludington, afterward president of the First National Bank of Chicago.
The Commission (1994). Wauwatosa Landmarks. The Commission. Lewis Ludington, was founder of Columbus, Wisconsin, and his cousin James founded Ludington, Michigan.
