Eliza Humphrey was a notable eccentric figure in the history of the City of Ashtabula.
Her father, Col. William Humphrey, who lost his life on the schooner Parrot in May of 1835. Eliza, following her fathers death, withdrew from society, and became known as the 'Goat Lady', as she dearly loved goats.
She at one time, lived in a hut on a small island on the Ashtabula River that was named 'Eliza's Island'. She lived on the Island until a flood completely destroyed it. Eliza, now in her late 60s, survived by climbing a tree.
From there, she was given a new lease on life, moving into an abandoned cheese factory on the East side of Ashtabula, thanks to L. D. Badger, who agreed to exchange his stock certificate for one of her goats.
She later regretted giving one of her flock away and worked for Badger to earn back ownership of the goat. She became an icon of the area, appearing in parades with her goats, and sold portraits of herself for a quarter.
When President William McKinley was inaugurated, Eliza sent one of her goats to him. McKinley sent her a letter of appreciation in return.
In 1902, Prince Henry of Prussia visited the United States, and was to pass through Ashtabula. In anticipation of his visit, Eliza put together a package for the Prince. In the package was a photo of herself, in which she wrote 'To His Royal Highness, from the American Shepherdess.'
By 1906, Eliza's health began to fail and the factory fell into disrepair. By a petition from the Ashtabula County Infirmary, she was appointed a guardian. Her assets and animals were seized, except for one dog and her favorite goat, Bill.
She went sent to the Infirmary in Kingsville, and spent her remaining years there caring for her goat, Bill.
She died on September 13th, 1912 at the age of 92. Bill, the goat, preceded her in death a day before. She was laid to rest in Chestnut Grove Cemetery.