TJL Genes : Preserving Our Family History

Exploratory Data Analysis: Minerva Prudence (Wehrly) Jackson (1867-1948)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Mon, 20 May 2013 09:36:00 +0000

Minerva Prudence (Wehrly) Jackson (1867-1948) was my paternal great-grandaunt. What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about her.

1. Vital Records

1.1. Birth Certificate

Minerva was born July 25, 1867 in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana¹. The State of Indiana did not require state-wide registrations of birth until after 1907. Jay County, Indiana only has birth records from 1882.

1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

If Minerva's birth was announced in the local newspaper, it has been lost to history. The Jay County Public Library has newspapers from the late 1880s. The holdings of the Indiana State Library in Indianapolis do not indicate any newspapers of the time period.

1.1.2. Bible Record

I am not aware of any surviving Bible record of the Wehrly family. Will continue to reach out to extended family in hopes that one does exist.

1.1.3. Baptismal Record

I am not aware of any baptismal record for Minerva, nor the church affiliation of the Wehrly's.

1.1.4. Adoption Record

There is no indication that Minerva was adopted.

1.2. Marriage License

Minerva married Lawrence Delbert Jackson on October 7, 1885¹, probably in Jay County, Indiana. Will need to search at the Jay County courthouse for a copy of this record.

1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

Once I have the correct location for their marriage, will search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of their nuptials.

1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

Minerva and Lawrence's 25th wedding anniversary would have been October 7, 1910. Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of any anniversary celebrations.

1.2.3. Divorce Decree

There is no indication that Minerva and Lawrence were ever divorced, but a search of the Jay County, Indiana court records needs to be conducted.

1.3. Death Certificate

Minerva died March 18, 1948¹ in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California². I need to verify this fact and try to obtain a copy of her death certificate.

1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

Will need to add searching for Minerva's obituary to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip. Likely it was mentioned in the Jay County, Indiana papers.

1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

Once I have obtained a copy of her obituary, I might be able to identify the funeral home that provided services and then contact them to see if they had any further records.

1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

Minerva and Lawrence's tombstone in the Salamonia Cemetery in Jay County, Indiana³ has been photographed and was the subject of a previous post. The tombstone reads "M. Prudence 1867-1948" and "L. Delbert 1865-1929".

2. Census Records

2.1. Federal Census Records

2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

On April 5, 1940, Minerva was enumerated in the George Ganzmiller household in Hamilton, Butler County, Ohio⁴, as Prudence Jackson, age 69, widowed mother-in-law. Her residence in 1935 was the same location. She was born in Indiana. No occupation was listed. Living in the same household were George Ganzmiller, age 47, born Ohio and Eva Ganzmiller, age 43, born in Ohio. Eva was Minerva's daughter.

2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

On April 4, 1930, Minerva was enumerated in the William D. Jackson household in Elkhart, Elkhart County, Indiana⁵, as Minerva P. Jackson, age 63, widowed mother. She was aged 18 at her first marriage. She was born in Indiana, and her parents were born in Indiana. She could read and write and spoke English. No occupation was listed. Living in the household were William D. Jackson, age 38, optometrist, born Indiana, Iva M. Jackson, age 32, born Illinois, Iva M. Jackson, age 4 1/2, born Indiana, William D. Jackson, age 3 1/2, born Indiana, John L. Jackson, age 1 11/12, born Indiana. William was Minerva's son.

2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

On January 8, 1920, Minerva was enumerated in the Lawrence D. Jackson household in the 4th Ward of Portland, Jay County, Indiana⁶, as Minerva P. Jackson, wife, age 53. She could read and write and speak English. She was born in Indiana, and both parents were born in Indiana. No occupation was listed.

2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

On April 1, 1910, Minerva was enumerated in the Lawrence D. Jackson household in Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana⁷, as Minerva P. Jackson, wife, age 40. She was married for 24 years, with 8 children, 7 of whom were living. She was born in Indiana, with her parents both born in Ohio. She could read and write and speak English.

2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

On June 1, 1900, Minerva was enumerated in the Lawrence D. Jackson household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁸, as Minerva P. Jackson, wife, age 33. She was born July 1866 in Indiana. She had been married 15 years, and was the mother of 6 children, 5 of whom were living. Her father and mother were born in Ohio. She could read and write and spoke English.

2.1.6. 1880 Federal Census

On June 3, 1880, Minerva was enumerated in the William Wherhly household in Salamonia, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁹, as Minerva Wherhly, daughter, age 12. She had attended school within the year. She was born in Indiana, the birthplace of her father was blank, and her mother was born in Michigan.

2.1.7. 1870 Federal Census

On August 2, 1870, Minerva was enumerated in the William P. Werly household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana¹⁰, as Minerva P. Werly, age 3, born in Indiana.

2.2. State Census Records

The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913 and 1921. These, however, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

2.3. Agricultural Census Records

I have not yet investigated these types of records to see what light they might shed on the Jackson farm.

3. Military Records

3.1. Draft Registration

Not applicable, as Minerva was female.

3.2. Pension Records

I am not aware of any military service by her husband or father that would have made her eligible for benefits. Her father did serve in the Civil War, but I don't believe she was ever eligible for minor's benefits.

3.3. Service Records

Not applicable, as Minerva was female.

4. Land Records

4.1. Deed Records

Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Jay County and Elkhart County, Indiana to see what records might mention Minerva and her family. Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

4.2. Plat map / county map

Plat maps and county maps for Jay County and Elkhart County, Indiana will need to be searched. Will contact the local historical society to see what maps they might have in their collection.

5. Supplemental Records

Supplemental records available for research on Minerva include city/county directories, court records and will and probate records. Will add these to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

Sources:

1. Wehrly, Blaine & Gladys, "Wehrly & Smith Family History." Report to Wehrly Reunion, New Castle, Indiana, 16 August 1970. Photocopy held by author.
2. Ancestry.com. California, Death Index, 1940-1997 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc, 2000. Original data: State of California. California Death Index, 1940-1997. Sacramento, CA, USA: State of California Department of Health Services, Center for Health Statistics.
3. Salamonia Cemetery (Jay County, Indiana), L. Delbert and M. Prudence Jackson marker, photographed by Travis LeMaster, 26 March 2009.
4. 1940 U.S. census, Butler County, Ohio, population schedule, 1st Ward, Hamilton, enumeration district 9-5, SD 3, sheet 1A, 622 Dick Street, household 6; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 19 May 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
5. 1930 U.S. census, Elkhart County, Indiana, population schedule, 1st Ward, Elkhart, enumeration district 20-9, SD 2, sheet 5B, 631 Prospect Street, dwelling 93, household 95; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 19 May 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
6. Lawrence D. Jackson household, 1920 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Wayne Twp., ED 91, SD 84, sheet 9, dwelling 165, family 167; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 440.
7. Lawrence D. Jackson household, 1910 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Wayne Twp., ED 82, SD 8, sheet 6, dwelling 150, family 153; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 358.
8. Lawrence D. Jackson household, 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Twp., ED 62, SD 67, sheet 1, dwelling 13, family 13; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 380.
9. William Wherhly household, 1880 U.S. census, population schedule, Salamonia, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 169, SD 6, page 28, dwelling 6, family 6; National Archives micropublication T9, roll 287.
10. William P. Werly household, 1870 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, page 27, Salamonie P.O., dwelling 197, family 200; National Archives micropublication M593, roll 327, page 87.

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.

LeMaster Alumni File at Oberlin

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Wed, 15 May 2013 10:17:00 +0000

The archives at Oberlin responded about the LeMaster alumni that they had found records for. I'm going to pay for the copies of the records to see how we might be related.

I was able to locate one small alumni file for Ralph LeMaster, but nothing about Mary. This is pretty common with students who only attended the college for a short time, especially in the earlier days of Oberlin.

Ralph's file contains a few address cards (most of them contain the same address: 213 E. Rush St, Kendalliville) and a nice alumni questionnaire sheet. These sheets would have been sent out by the college for different purposes, mostly to keep records updated about alumni. This was filled out by Ralph in 1922, while he was still a student at De Pauw.

The archivist's fiancee has a grandmother who was a LeMaster as well. She's passing on to her future m-i-l about the blog, and I'm still looking for a connection.

LeMaster Family Ephemera

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Thu, 09 May 2013 10:03:00 +0000

Dad found these old checks that my grandmother had written to the IRS and the Indiana Dept. of Revenue and gave them to me to scan. Nice example of her signature to have on file. Back in the days when the banks would return your cancelled checks to you each month.

Exploratory Data Analysis: Chester Arthur Wright (1896-1955)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Wed, 08 May 2013 10:03:00 +0000

Chester Wright & Virgil Wright, undated photo

Chester Arthur "Mike" Wright (1896-1955) was my maternal great-granduncle. What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about him.

1. Vital Records

1.1. Birth Certificate

Chester was born October 18, 1896 in Orestes, Madison County, Indiana¹. I do not yet have a copy of his birth certificate. Will add obtaining a copy to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspapers to see if mention was made of Chester's birth.

1.1.2. Bible Record

I am not aware of any surviving Bible record of the Wright family. Will continue to reach out to extended family in hopes that one does exist.

1.1.3. Baptismal Record

I am not aware of any baptismal record for Chester, nor am I aware of the church affiliation of the family at the time.

1.1.4. Adoption Record

There is no indication that Chester was adopted.

1.2. Marriage License

Chester married Erma Violet Hayes on March 5, 1920 in Madison County, Indiana. I do not have a copy of his marriage license. Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

Chester married in Mamie Lawson in 1939 in Madison County, Indiana. I do not have a copy of this marriage license. Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of Chester's marriages.

1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

Neither of Chester's marriages lasted long enough to reach the 25th anniversary mark.

1.2.3. Divorce Decree

Chester and Erma Hayes did divorce, but I do not have a copy of the record. Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip. Likely the divorce occurred in Madison County, Indiana. Erma was remarried circa 1922, so the divorce had to have taken place in the 1920-1922 period.

1.3. Death Certificate

Chester died June 20, 1955 in Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio². He was a patient at the Ohio University Hospital there for just a few days prior to his death.

I do not yet have a copy of his death certificate from Ohio. Will add obtaining this to my list of "to-do" items.

1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

Chester's obituary appeared in the June 21, 1955 edition of the Alexandria Times Tribune in Alexandria, Indiana². This obituary was the subject of a previous post.

Chester's obituary appeared in the June 21, 1955 edition of the Anderson Herald in Anderson, Indiana³.

Chester's obituary appeared in the June 22, 1955 edition of the Alexandria Times Tribune in Alexandria, Indiana⁴.

1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

According to his obituary³, the funeral arrangements were handled by the Stricler Funeral Home in Alexandria. Will check with the local historical society to see if they have any surviving records.

1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

Chester is buried in the Park View Cemetery in Alexandria, Indiana⁵. I do not have a photograph of his tombstone. Will need to add this to my list of "to-do" items.

2. Census Records

2.1. Federal Census Records

2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

On April 18, 1940, Chester was enumerated in the John W. Wright household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana⁶, as Chester A. Wright, son, age 40, born in Indiana. He was married, and had completed the 8th grade in education. His residence in 1935 was the same place. His occupation was listed as farmer. His wife, Mamie, age 40, born in Indiana was also living in the household.

2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

On April 15, 1930, Chester was enumerated in the John Wright household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana⁷, as Chester A. Wright, son, age 33, born in Indiana. He was divorced. He could read and write and spoke English. His father was born in Ohio and his mother born in Indiana. His occupation was listed as farmer.

2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

On January 15, 1920, Chester was enumerated in the John W. Wright household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana⁸, as Chester A. Wright, son, age 23, single, born in Indiana. His father was born in Ohio and his mother in Indiana. He could read and write and spoke English. His occupation was listed as farmer.

2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

On May 5, 1910, Chester was enumerated in the John W. Wright household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana⁹, as Chester Wright, son, age 13, single, born in Indiana. His father was born in Ohio and his mother in Indiana. He could read and write and spoke English, and had attended school within the year.

2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

On June 27, 1900, Chester was enumerated in the John W. Wright household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana¹⁰, as Chester A. Wright, son, age 3, single, born in Indiana. His father and mother were both listed as being born in Indiana.

2.2. State Census Records

The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913 and 1921. These, however, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

2.3. Agricultural Census Records

I have not yet investigated these types of census records to see what light they might shed on the Wright family farm.

3. Military Records

3.1. Draft Registration

On June 5, 1918, Chester registered with the Selective Service in Madison County, Indiana¹¹. He listed his date of birth as October 18, 1896 in Madison County, Indiana. The name of his employer and nearest relative were one and the same, his father, John W. Wright, RR # 20, Alexandria, Indiana. His eyes were listed as light blue and his hair as black.

3.2. Pension Records

I am not aware of any military service by Chester that would make him eligible for pension benefits.

3.3. Service Records

I am not aware of any military service by Chester.

4. Land Records

4.1. Deed Records

Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Madison County, Indiana to see what records might mention Chester. Will add this to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

4.2. Plat map / county map

Plat map and county maps for Madison County, Indiana will need to be searched. Will contact the local historical society to see what maps they might have in their collection.

5. Supplemental Records

Supplemental records available for research on Chester include city/county directories, court records and will and probate records. Will add these to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

Sources:

1. Sandra Freeman, "John William Wright - Ellen King family group sheet", compiled [n.d.] (Alexandria, Indiana, USA). Notes say information from Zelma Cooper and Gloria LeMaster.
2. Chester (Mike) Wright obituary, Alexandria Times Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, USA, June 21, 1955, page 1.
3. Mike Wright dies in Ohio article, Anderson Herald, Anderson, Indiana, USA, June 21, 1955, page 2.
4. Chester (Mike) Wright obituary, Alexandria Times Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, USA, June 22, 1955, page 1.
5. Chester (Mike) Wright obituary, Alexandria Times Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, USA, June 23, 1955, page 1.
6. 1940 U.S. census, Madison County, Indiana, population schedule, Monroe Township, enumeration district 48-59, SD 11, sheet 3A, dwelling 60; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 7 May 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
7. John Wright household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 48-46, SD 5, sheet 11A, dwelling 246, family 258; National Archives micropublication T626, roll 605, page 231.
8. John W. Wright household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 122, SD 8, sheet 4A, dwelling 81, family 81.
9. John W. Wright household, 1910 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 17, SD 8, sheet 11B, dwelling 259, family 259; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 364, page 364.
10. John W. Wright household, 1900 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 96, SD 8, sheet 21B, dwelling 398, family 432; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 386, page 38.
11. "U.S. World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," digital image, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 8 May 2013); citing World War I Selective Service Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918: Indiana.

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.

Exploratory Data Analysis: Beulah Sarah (LeMaster) Rockwell (1866-1940)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Fri, 03 May 2013 10:39:00 +0000

Beulah Sarah (LeMaster) Rockwell (1866-1940) is my paternal great-grandaunt. What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about her.

1. Vital Records

1.1. Birth Certificate

Beulah was born September 9, 1866 in Jay County, Indiana, according to my database. Her tombstone lists her birth date as 1865. Her death certificate lists her birthdate as September 30, 1865¹. The State of Indiana did not require state-wide registrations of birth until after 1907. Prior to this date, they were only recorded in the counties where the event occurred. Jay County, Indiana only has birth records from 1882.

1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

If Beulah's birth was announced in the local newspaper, it has been lost to history. The Jay County Public Library has newspapers from the late 1880s, and there was a book by Rex Betram, "Jay Co., IN Newspaper Clippings, 1871-1877", but I haven't discovered anything earlier. The holdings of the Indiana State Library in Indianapolis do not indicate any newspapers of the period.

1.1.2. Bible Record

I am not aware of any surviving Bible record of the LeMaster family. Will continue to reach out to extended family in hopes that one does exist.

1.1.3. Baptismal Record

I am not aware of any baptismal record for Beulah. The family was affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church.

1.1.4. Adoption Record

There is no indication that Beulah was adopted.

1.2. Marriage License

Beulah married Lynn Lumas Rockwell on November 27, 1888 in Jay County, Indiana, according to my database. I do not have a copy of her marriage license. Need to add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

A preliminary search of the indices at FamilySearch and Ancestry.com did not produce a record of their marriage.

1.2.1. Marriage notice in newspaper

Once I have the correct location for their marriage, will search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of their nuptials.

1.2.2. Anniversary notice

Beulah and Lynn's 25th wedding anniversary would have been on November 27, 1913. Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of any anniversary celebrations.

1.2.3. Divorce decree

There is no indication that Beulah and Lynn were ever divorced, but a search of the court records in Mercer County, Ohio needs to be conducted.

1.3. Death Certificate

Beulah died July 16, 1940 in Ft. Recovery, Mercer County, Ohio². A copy of her death certificate was the subject of a previous post.

1.3.1. Obituary in newspaper

Beulah's obituary appeared in the July 17, 1940 edition of the Union City Times-Gazette, Union City, Randolph County, Indiana².

Beulah's obituary appeared in the July 18, 1940 editon of the Portland Commercial-Review, Portland, Jay County, Indiana³.

1.3.2. Funeral home records

According to her obituary², the May funeral home in Ft. Recovery, Ohio handled the arrangements. Will add contacting them for more information to my "to-do" list for further research.

1.3.3. Tombstone photograph

Beulah's tombstone in the Salamonia Cemetery, Salamonia, Jay County, Indiana has been photographed. The tombstone reads "Beulah S. 1865-1940" and her husband "Lynn L, 1865-1949".

Her memorial page at FindAGrave is located here.

2. Census Records

2.1. Federal Census Records

2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

On April 16, 1940, Beulah was enumerated in the Lynn Rockwell household in Ft. Recovery, Mercer County, Ohio⁴, as Beulah Rockwell, age 74, married. She had completed school through the eighth grade. She was born in Indiana, and in 1935 her residence was the same place.

2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

On April 28, 1930, Beulah was enumerated in the Lynn L. Rockwell household in Ft. Recovery, Mercer County, Ohio⁵, as Beulah S. Rockwell, wife, age 64, married at age 23. She could read and write and spoke English. She was born in Indiana, her father born in Ohio and her mother born in New Jersey.

2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

On January 8, 1920, Beulah was enumerated in the L.L. Rockwell household in Ft. Recovery, Mercer County, Ohio⁶, as Beulah Rockwell, wife, age 54, born in Indiana. She could read and write and spoke English. Her father was born in Ohio and her mother in New Jersey. No occupation was listed.

2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

On May 7, 1910, Beulah was enumerated in the Lynn L. Rockwell household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana⁷, as Beulah S. Rockwell, wife, age 45, born in Indiana. She had been married for 22 years and was the mother of 4 children, all living. Her father was born in Ohio and her mother in New Jersey. She could read and write and spoke English.

2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

I have not located Beulah in the 1900 census. They should be found in Jay County, Indiana. Will continue to search for them.

2.1.6. 1880 Federal Census

On June 5, 1880, Beulah was enumerated in the Walker Lemasters household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana^{, as Beulah Lemasters, age 14, daughter. She had attended school within the year. She was born in Indiana, her father born in Ohio and her mother born in New Jersey.}

2.2. State Census Records

The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913 and 1921. These, however, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

No state census of Ohio are known to exist.

2.3. Agricultural Census Records

I have not yet investigated these types of census records to see what light they might shed on the Rockwells.

3. Military Records

3.1. Draft Registration

Not applicable, as Beulah was female.

3.2. Pension Records

I am not aware of any military service by her husband or father that would have made Beulah eligible for benefits. Her father did serve in the Civil War, but I don't believe she was ever eligible for minor's benefits.

3.3. Service Records

Not applicable, as Beulah was female.

4. Land Records

4.1. Deed Records

Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Jay County, Indiana and Mercer County, Ohio to see what records might mention Beulah and her family. Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

4.2. Plat map / county map

Plat maps and county maps for Jay County, Indiana and Mercer County, Ohio will need to be searched. Will contact the local historical society to see what maps they might have in their collection.

5. Supplemental records

Supplemental records available for research on Beulah include city/county directories, court records and will and probate records. Will add these to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

Sources:

1."Ohio, Deaths, 1908-1953," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XZ2H-XVJ : accessed 01 May 2013), Beulah Sarah Rockwell, 1940.
2. Union City Obituaries, Darke County Genealogical Researchers online [http://www.dcoweb.org/randolph/UCobits/1941f.html#486], accessed 11 November 2010.
3. Rockwell Rites Are Tomorrow article, Commercial-Review, Portland, Indiana, USA, July 18, 1940, page 1.
4. 1940 U.S. census, Mercer County, Ohio, population schedule, Ft. Recovery, enumeration district 54-26, SD 4, sheet 1A, household 4, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 23 April 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
5. Lynn L. Rockwell household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Ft. Recovery, Gibson Township, Mercer County, Ohio, ED 54-23, SD 11, sheet 1A, dwelling 15, family 15; National Archives micropublication T626, roll 1850, Washington, D.C.
6. L.L. Rockwell household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Ft. Recovery, Gibson Township, Mercer County, Ohio, ED 132, SD 3, sheet 6A, dwelling 134, family 134; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 1418, Washington, D.C..
7. Lynn L. Rockwell household, 1910 U.S. census, population schedule, Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 69, SD 8, sheet 9A, dwelling 216, family 220; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 358, Washington, D.C.
8. Walker Lemasters household, 1880 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 161, SD 6, page 4, dwelling 47, family 48; National Archives micropublication T9, roll 287.

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.

Graduating Class of Portland High School, 1903

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Thu, 02 May 2013 09:53:00 +0000

Portland - The senior class of 1903 posed for the annual high school picture. They are, first row, left to right, Ollie Fleming, Dessie Kinsey Leonard, Maude LeMaster, Myrtle Suman Keith; second row, Beryl Fleming Sasser, Pearl Wetzel Swartz, Esther Bosworth Rines, Pearl Haines Hotsenpiller, Artie Metz, Don Hall, Margaret Brubaker Milley; third row, Pearl Nichols Jones, Carrie Tate Liffring, Carrie Reber, Ada Cecil Close McLeod, Maude Spade Tormohlen, Ina Holloway Burke, Edna Lawrence Williams; fourth row, Earl Pierce, Harlo Hakes Ferris, Milo Culbert and Philo W. Journey.

Photo of the graduating class of Portland High School, Portland, Jay County, Indiana includes my paternal 2nd-great grandaunt, Una Maude (LeMaster) Phillips (1884-1968). This clipping was found at the Jay County Historical Society in Portland.

Death Certificate: Beulah Sarah Rockwell, 1940 Mercer County, Ohio

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Wed, 01 May 2013 10:53:00 +0000

While working on updating my information and completing an exploratory analysis of my paternal 2nd-great grandaunt, Beulah Sarah (LeMaster) Rockwell, I located her death certificate at FamilySearch's database of Ohio records.

One interesting clue was that her birth date was listed as September 30, 1865 in Ohio. In my database I previously had her birth in Jay County, Indiana on September 9, 1866 (unsourced). Her tombstone also reflects the 1865 year of her birth. Her husband, Lynn Rockwell, was the informant on the death certificate.

The funeral home was a bit hard to read, but appears to be the May funeral home. An internet search found the Brockman-Boeckman Funeral Home still in existence in Ft. Recovery, having purchased the May funeral home in 1977. Will need to write to them to see if they have any records.

Beulah's husband had her parents correct, but didn't know their birthplaces. Mother's maiden name was Chew, mis-indexed as Chen by FamilySearch.

"Ohio, Deaths, 1908-1953," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XZ2H-XVJ : accessed 01 May 2013), Beulah Sarah Rockwell, 1940.

Funeral Record of Sarah (Beals) Albright, 1907

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:39:00 +0000

Records of Zook Funeral Home, Converse Indiana 1904-1922

Found this book at the Allen County Public Library in Ft. Wayne, Indiana some time ago and just now getting around to extracting the data.

Under the headings for funerals for 1907, I found the following record:

July 21 - Sarah Albright.

Sarah was Sarah Beals (1828-1907), daughter of Nathan C. and Elizabeth (Chew) Beals and the wife of Daniel S. Albright. Sarah was my maternal 4th-great grandaunt.

Oberlin College Archives Response

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:06:00 +0000

Received a response from the archives at Oberlin College, where William Clifford LeMaster (1870-1922) graduated, in regards to my request for student information:

I have gone through the alumni registers and student cards for the 1890s time period and I have not been able to find anything about William Clifford LeMaster. The only students that I have been able to find are a Ralph and Mary LeMaster (from Kendalville, IN), both enrolled for the class of 1923.

I am sorry I was not able to find anything about William. Should I check to see if the other LeMasters have any student files for you?

My fiancee's grandmother was a LeMaster. I wonder if they are related!

I've followed up with a request for more information on these LeMasters from Kendallville, to see if we are related.

The Postman Only Rang Once

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:20:00 +0000

Apparently the postman only rings once when it comes to my family history quest. My attempts to cajole my parents, aunts and uncles into providing me with more detail and insight into the family history, particularly of my grandparents, has failed to garner but one response. Three months ago, I sent SASE with a questionnaire to be answered, and only my parents have responded.

I guess I shouldn’t be too surprised. Everyone has a busy life, and most are not as interested in family history as I am. Maybe they feel that they’ve already answered the questions in the past. I had hoped to have already sent out additional questionnaires, but based on the lack of response, I think I’m going to abandon this project.

The questionnaire asked four questions for my relatives : 1) When and where did you meet your spouse 2) When and where did you get married/Go on your honeymoon 3) What was the most difficult thing about being a newly married couple 4) What advice would you give to someone today who was contemplating a serious relationship. I had hoped that beyond the facts, their answers would give some insight to flesh out the life stories of my parents, aunts and uncles.

The questionnaire also asked each family to tell me what I should know about both their mother and father. I was hoping that this would spur some reflection and also provide me with their recollections of their parents, as my grandfathers died when I was young and one grandmother died when I was in high school, the other while I was in college.

Perhaps they feel it’s best to let the past be the past, but I have a curiosity about my grandparents and others that I was hoping to have answered.

Exploratory Data Analysis: Phillip D. LeMaster (1869-1869)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:07:00 +0000

Phillip D. LeMaster (1869-1869) was my paternal great-granduncle. What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about him.

1. Vital Records

1.1. Birth Certificate

Phillip was born January 28, 1869 in Darke County, Ohio. I have been unable to locate a record of his birth in the probate records for Darke County located at FamilySearch. These records are currently unindexed.

1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of Phillip's birth.

1.1.2. Bible Record

I am not aware of any surviving Bible record of the LeMaster family. Will continue to reach out to extended family in hopes that one does exist.

1.1.3. Baptismal Record

I am not aware of any baptismal record for Phillip. The family was associated with the Methodist Episcopal church.

1.1.4. Adoption Record

There is no indication that Phillip was adopted.

1.2. Marriage License

Not applicable, as Phillip died in infancy.

1.2.1. Marriage notice in newspaper

Not applicable, as Phillip died in infancy.

1.2.2. Anniversary notice

Not applicable, as Phillip died in infancy.

1.2.3. Divorce decree

Not applicable, as Phillip died in infancy.

1.3. Death Certificate

Phillip died May 1, 1869 in Darke County, Ohio. I have not been able to locate a death date from local probate records yet. Will continue to search.

1.3.1. Obituary in newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of Phillip's death.

1.3.2. Funeral home records

Will need to search local funeral home records to see if mention was made of Phillip's funeral.

1.3.3. Tombstone photograph

Phillip's tombstone in the Webster Cemetery in Rossburg, Darke County, Ohio has been photographed and published at FindAGrave.

2. Census Records

2.1. Federal Census Records

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

2.2. State Census Records

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

2.3. Agricultural Census Records

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

3. Military Records

3.1. Draft Registration

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

3.2. Pension Records

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

3.3. Service Records

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

4. Land Records

4.1. Deed Records

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

4.2. Plat map / county map

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

5. Supplemental records

Not applicable, as Phillip did not survive into adulthood.

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.

Jay County, Indiana Marriages 1837-1865

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 23:46:00 +0000

Jay County, Indiana Marriages
1837-1865
(Transcribed by Rex W. Betram)

Located this book in the Allen County Library in Ft. Wayne, Indiana several months ago and just now getting around to abstracting the information.

Some of the family members that I located mentioned during this time period:

CUNNINGHAM, William E., to LEMASTER, Rachel, 18 Mar. 1860, married by Wm. A. Hartzell, J.P., Book B, page 375. [Rachel was my paternal 2nd-great grandaunt]

HARTER, Hiram B., to WEHRLY, Elizabeth, 29 May 1860, married by Richard Harter, M.G., Book B, page 378. [Elizabeth was my paternal 2nd-great grandaunt]

METZNER, John A., to MOULTON, Clarice, 13 Nov. 1864, married by Nathan Beck, M.G., Book B, page 536. [They were my paternal 2nd-great grandparents]

WEHRLY, John, to LEMASTER, Catherine, 3 Feb. 1861, married by James Redkey, M.G., Book B, page 408. [Catherine was my paternal 2nd-great grandaunt]

Exploratory Data Analysis: William Clifford LeMaster (1870-1922)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 22:26:00 +0000

William C. LeMaster (left) and son Ralph LeMaster

William Clifford LeMaster (1870-1922) was my paternal great-granduncle. What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about him.

1. Vital Records

1.1. Birth Certificate

William was born September 1, 1870^{1, 12} in Darke County, Ohio.

The discovery of his correct birth date was the subject of a previous post.

1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of William's birth.

1.1.2. Bible Record

I am not aware of any surviving Bible records of the LeMaster family. Will continue to reach out to extended family in hopes that one does exist.

1.1.3. Baptismal Record

I am not aware of any baptismal record for William. The family was affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church.

1.1.4. Adoption Record

There is no indication that William was adopted.

1.2. Marriage License

William married Lella Edith Lewis on August 20, 1892 in Penn Township, Jay County, Indiana^1,2.

A copy of their marriage license and return was the subject of a previous post.

William married secondly to Parnell Brown on July 21, 1921 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado.

1.2.1. Marriage notice in newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspapers to see if mention was made of his nuptials.

1.2.2. Anniversary notice

Neither of his marriage's lasted long enough, due to divorce or death, to reach the 25th anniversary mark.

1.2.3. Divorce decree

William filed for divorce from Lella in Teller County, Colorado on August 21, 1917. The papers were served to Lella on September 5, 1917 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California³.

A copy of their divorce papers was the subject of a previous post.

1.3. Death Certificate

William died July 26, 1922 in Sedalia, Douglas County, Colorado⁴. I have not yet obtained a copy of his death certificate. Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

1.3.1. Obituary in newspaper

William's obituary appeared in the July 28, 1922 edition of the Colorado Springs Gazette⁴. Mention was also made in the July 29, 1922 edition of the Colorado Springs Gazette
5.
1.3.2. Funeral home records

Neither obituary mentioned the funeral home that handled the arrangements. The funeral was held at the Elks in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

1.3.3. Tombstone photograph

William's tombstone in the Evergreen Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Colorado⁶ has been photographed.

2. Census Records

2.1. Federal Census Records

2.1.1. 1920 Federal Census

On January 12, 1920, William was enumerated in the Francis P. Hall household in Victor, Teller County, Colorado⁷, as William C. LeMaster, lodger, age 46, divorced. He was born in Ohio, father born in Ohio and mother born in New Jersey. He could read and write and spoke English. His occupation was listed as the proprietor of a theatre. Living in the same household was son, Ralph M., age 17, born in Ohio, and express driver.

2.1.2. 1910 Federal Census

On April 16, 1910, William was enumerated as the head of household in Ft. Collins, Larimer County, Colorado⁸, as William C. LeMaster, age 39, bank cashier. He had been married for 17 years. He was born in Ohio, father born in Ohio and mother in New Jersey. He could read and write and spoke English. Living in the household was his wife, Lella E., age 38, born in Indiana, and children Gladys A., age 16, born Indiana; Lella L., age 13, born in Ohio; Ralph M., age 7, born in Ohio, and William C. Jr., age 5, born in Colorado.

2.1.3. 1900 Federal Census

On June 4, 1900, William was enumerated as the head of household in Ward 4, City of Elyria, Lorain County, Ohio⁹, as William C. LeMaster, age 29, bank clerk. He had been married for 7 years. He was born September 1870 in Ohio, his father was born in Ohio and his mother in New Jersey. He could read and write and spoke English. Living in the household was his wife, Lella E., age 24, born in Indiana, and children Gladys A., age 6, born in Indiana and Lilla S., age 3, born in Ohio.

2.1.4. 1880 Federal Census

On June 5, 1880, William was enumerated in the Walker Lemasters household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana¹⁰, as William Lemasters, age 9, son. He had attended school within the year and could read and write and spoke English.

2.2. State Census Records

The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913 and 1921. These, however, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

No state census of Ohio are known to exist.

Colorado conducted state census in 1861, 1866, and 1885.

2.3. Agricultural Census Records

I have not yet investigated these types of census records to see what light they might shed on the LeMaster farm.

3. Military Records

3.1. Draft Registration

William was too old to meet the draft requirements during World War I.

3.2. Pension Records

I am not aware of any military service that would make William eligible for pension benefits. His father did serve in the Civil War, but I don't believe he was ever eligible for any minor benefits.

3.3. Service Records

Not applicable.

4. Land Records

4.1. Deed Records

Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Lorain County, Ohio and Teller and Douglas County, Colorado to see what records might mention William and his family. Will add this to my "to-do" list for further research.

4.2. Plat map / county map

Plat maps and county maps for Lorain County, Ohio and Teller and Douglas Counties, Colorado will need to be searched. Will contact the local historical societies to see what maps they might have in their collections.

5. Supplemental records

Supplemental records available for research on William include city/county directories, court records and will and probate records. Will add these to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

In January 1892, William graduated from Oberlin College in Ohio¹.

On April 4, 1900, William was elected fourth ward councilman for the city of Elyria, Ohio¹¹.

Sources:

1. Morgan Milton Lewis, Genealogical and biographical record of the Lewis and Grisell families : from the years 1751 and 1763 to the year 1903 (Battle Creek, Michigan, USA : M.M. Lewis, 1903), page 207.
2. Jay County, Indiana, Original Marriage Return: Clifford W. Lemasters to Lella Lewis, 1892"; County Marriage Returns Collection: Jay County Historical Society, Portland, Indiana.
3. Teller County Colorado, Divorce Records 3359, LeMaster, William C. v. LeMaster, Lella E., 1918; Colorado State Archives, Denver, Colorado, USA.
4. Colorado Springs Gazette, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA, 28 July 1922, page 3:2.
5. Colorado Springs Gazette, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA, 29 July 1922, page 6:6.
6. Evergreen Cemetery (Colorado Springs, Colorado), W.C. LeMaster marker, photographed by Nick Hardy, 23 January 2011.
7. Francis P. Hall household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Victor, Teller County, Colorado, ED 238, SD 3, sheet 9, dwelling 192, family 207; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 172, page 36.
8. William C. Lemaster household, 1910 U.S. census, population schedule, Ft. Collins, Larimer County, Colorado, ED 227, SD 1, sheet 2, dwelling 37, family 37; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 121.
9. 1900 census, Lorain County, Ohio, population schedule, Ward 4, Elyria, ED 81, SD 13, sheet 4B, dwelling 72, family 79; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 24 April 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
10. Walker Lemasters household, 1880 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 161, SD 6, page 4, dwelling 47, family 48; National Archives micropublication T9, roll 287.
11. Two Women Were Elected article, The Elyria Republican, Elyria, Ohio, USA, April 5, 1900, page 1.
12. "Ohio, Births and Christenings, 1821-2003." Index and Images. FamilySearch. (https://familysearch.org) accessed 24 April 2013, Darke County, Ohio Birth Registers with index 1863-1878 vol. 1.

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.

Family Recipe Friday : Sweat & Sour Meatballs

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:31:00 +0000

Another recipe from Mom:

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

After I had eaten sweet and sour meatballs at a Elks style show in the 70s or 80s, I searched for a recipe that called for ingredients that I usually had on hand. I found this recipe in a Farm Journal Cookbook. It became a great recipe for family pitch-ins. I have probably given out this recipe to more people than any recipe that I have. You can make it ahead of time. Let meat balls bake or use store-bought meatballs while you fix the unusual sauce--quick and easy .

    3-4 cups bread crumbs
    2 pounds ground beef
    1/2 cup chopped onions
    1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
    1/4 teaspoon pepper
    1 teaspoon salt
    2 eggs slightly beaten
    Sweet-Sour Sauce for beef

Moisten bread crumbs slightly. Combine with remaining ingredients, except Sweet-Sour Sauce. Shape in balls the size of walnuts (1 /2"); place in jelly roll pan (15 1/2"x10 1/2"x 1"). (Or brown balls in skillet containing a little hot fat). Bake in very hot oven (450) 15-18 minutes.

Place balls in Sweet-Sour Sauce for Beef and simmer 10 minutes. If balls are made ahead, add sauce to them and heat in the overn for 15 minutes.

Makes about 36 meat balls, 8-9 servings.

SWEET-SOUR SAUCE FOR BEEF

1 (1lb.12oz.) can tomatoes (about 3 1/2 c.)
1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1/4 cup vinegar
1 tsp. grated onion
10 ginersnaps, crushed

Combine all ingredients. Cook to boiling. Makes enough sauce for 36 (1 1/2") meat balls.

Family Recipe Friday - is an opportunity to share your family recipes with fellow bloggers and foodies alike. Whether it's an old fashioned recipe passed down through generations, a recipe uncovered through your family history research, or a discovered recipe that embraces your ancestral heritage share them of Family Recipe Friday. This series was suggested by Lynn Palermo of The Armchair Genealogist.

Happy 7th Blogiversary

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:40:00 +0000

Seven years ago, on April 25, 2006 I posted for the first time to this blog. It has been a lot of fun and I've made some great friends and discoveries. The Geneablogger community has been a wonderful support.

Thought I would take a look at some of the various highlights of the blog over the years :

The very first post - Welcome

Post with the most pageviews - Divorce papers William Clifford LeMaster

This one is popular due to the keyword search below, apparently people who are searching for divorce paper templates are finding this page.

Most comments - Building My 2011 Research Template

Top referring site - Google.com

Top three keyword searches :

1. Blank divorce papers - most be folks looking to divorce
2. Freezer slaw - a search for recipes land here
3. Harry Pierpont - my cousin, John Dillinger's pal

I appreciate each and every one of you who have stopped by over the years, and I hope to continue to find more information to share.

May Fest, Elwood, Indiana, 1937

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 11:11:00 +0000

Written on back :8th Grade May Festival
Bonnie Lambertson, Miriam, Virginia Ham, Wilma Marley, Louise, Anna Mae Hodson, Wanda, Jean Dever?

Written on back : Girls in May Festival and Festival Queen
Wanda, Wilma, Jean, Louise, Anna Mae, Ann Louise Leeson

These photos were provided by my mother show my maternal grandmother, Bonnie Mae (Lambertson) Wright (1924-1984) when she was in the 8th grade, possibly 1937. She is in the back row, far left.

Correcting Birth Date William Clifford LeMaster (1870 Darke County, Ohio)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:23:00 +0000

While preparing an analysis for my paternal great-granduncle, William Clifford LeMaster, I began searching for documentation of his birth at FamilySearch, in an attempt to determine his correct year of birth. Some sources said 1871, others 1870.

Browsing through the pages for Darke County, Ohio, I found the birth volume index and located him there:

His name was mispelled as Leamaster in the index, and the record, much as his sister's birth had as well.

Paging through the records, I did manage to find his birth record, and it was recorded as September 1, 1870, not 1871. Time to correct my records.

A direct link to the record is here.

Source : "Ohio, Births and Christenings, 1821-2003." Index and Images. FamilySearch. (https://familysearch.org) accessed 24 April 2013, Darke County, Ohio Birth Registers with index 1863-1878 vol. 1.

Exploratory Data Analysis: Mary Elsie (LeMaster) Atkinson (1872-1952)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:43:00 +0000

Mary Elsie (LeMaster) Atkinson (1872-1952) was my paternal great-grandaunt. What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about her.

1. Vital Records

1.1. Birth Certificate

Mary was born February 15, 1873 in Darke County, Ohio¹. Finding her birth record was the subject of a previous post.

Mary was born April 26, 1872 in Darke County, Ohio², according to her obituary. I have not reconciled the discrepancy.

1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of Mary's birth.

1.1.2. Bible Record

I am not aware of any surviving Bible records of the LeMaster family. Will continue to reach out to extended family in hopes that one does exist.

1.1.3. Baptismal Record

I am not aware of any baptismal record for Mary. The family was affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal church.

1.1.4. Adoption Record

There is no indication that Mary was adopted.

1.2. Marriage License

Mary married Matthias Jefferson Atkinson on September 15, 1894 in Jay County, Indiana^{2, 3}.

Mary's name was listed as Elsie Lemasters on the license, and the grooms name was spelled 'Mathias' rather than 'Matthias'.

A copy of their marriage license was the subject of a previous post.

1.2.1. Marriage notice in newspaper

Will need to search contemporary newspapers to see if mention was made of Matthias and Mary's nuptials.

1.2.2. Anniversary notice

Matthias and Mary's 25th wedding anniversary would have been September 15, 1919. Will need to search contemporary newspapers to see if mention was made of any anniversary celebration.

1.2.3. Divorce decree

There is no indication that Matthias and Mary were ever divorced.

1.3. Death Certificate

Mary died on June 5, 1942 in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana². According to her obituary, she suffered a heart attack.

I do not yet have a copy of her death certificate, will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

1.3.1. Obituary in newspaper

Mary's obituary appeared in the June 5, 1942 edition of the Portland, Indiana Commercial-Review². Her obituary was the subject of a previous post.

1.3.2. Funeral home records

According to her obituary, Mary's funeral arrangements were handled by the Williamson funeral home. Will add searching for these records to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

1.3.3. Tombstone photograph

Mary is buried at the Salamonia Cemetery in Salamonia, Jay County, Indiana. I need to obtain a photograph of her tombstone for my records.

2. Census Records

2.1. Federal Census Records

2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

On April 16, 1940, Mary was enumerated in the Lynn Rockwell household in Ft. Recovery, Mercer County, Ohio⁴, as Mary E. Atkinson, age 67, widow, born in Ohio. She had completed the 8th grade. Her residence in 1935 was listed as Sidney, Shelby County, Ohio. No occupation was listed.

2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

On April 12, 1930, Mary was enumerated in the Luman W. Leamasters household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁵, as Elsie Atkinson, daughter, age 57, widow. She was born in Ohio and her father was born in Ohio and mother in New Jersey. Her occupation was listed as housekeeper. She could read and write and spoke English.

2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

On January 12, 1920, Mary was enumerated in the Mathias J. Atkinson household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁶, as Mary E. Atkinson, wife, age 48. She was born in Ohio and her father was born in Ohio and mother in New Jersey. She could read and write and spoke English. No occupation was listed.

2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

On April 22, 1910, Mary was enumerated in the Mathias J. Atkinson household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁷, as Elsa M. Atkinson, wife, age 39. She had been married for 15 years, no children. She was born in Ohio, her father born in Ohio and mother in New Jersey. No occupation was listed.

2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

On June 4, 1900, Mary was enumerated in the Mathias J. Atkinson household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁸, as Mary E. Atkinson, born April 1872, wife, age 28. She was born in Ohio, her father in Ohio and mother born in New Jersey. She could read and write and spoke English. No occupation was listed. She had been married for 5 years, no children.

2.1.6. 1880 Federal Census

On June 5, 1880, Mary was enumerated in the Walker Lemasters household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁹, as Elsie Lemasters, daughter, age 8. She attended school within the year. She was born in Ohio, her father in Ohio and mother in New Jersey.

2.2. State Census Records

The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913 and 1921. These, however, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

2.3. Agricultural Census Records

I have not yet investigated these types of records to see what light they might shed on the Atkinson farm.

3. Military Records

3.1. Draft Registration

Not applicable, as Mary was female.

3.2. Pension Records

I am not aware of any military service by her husband or father that would have made Mary eligible for military benefits. Her father did serve in the Civil War, but I don't believe she was ever eligible for any minor's benefits.

3.3. Service Records

Not applicable, as Mary was female.

4. Land Records

4.1. Deed Records

Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Jay County, Indiana and Mercer County, Ohio to see what items might mention Mathias and Mary. Will add this to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

4.2. Plat map / county map

Plat maps for Jay County, Indiana and Mercer County, Ohio need to be searched as well. Will contact the local historical society to see what information they might have on Mary and Mathias.

5. Supplemental records

Supplemental records available for research on Mary include city/county directories, court records and will and probate records. Will add these to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

In 1907, Mary was listed as resident of Section 7, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana¹⁰, living on 98 acres.

In 1922, Mary was listed as a resident of Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana¹¹, in the biographical sketch of her father.

In 1922, Mary was listed as a resident of Salamonia, Jay County, Indiana¹², in the obituary of her sister, Bertha.

In 1923, Mary was listed as a resident of Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana¹³, in the obituary of her husband.

Sources :

1. "Ohio, Births and Christenings, 1821-2003." Index and images. FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org) accessed 18 April 2013, Darke County, Ohio Birth Registers with index 1863-1878 vol. 1.
2. Mary Elsie Atkinson obituary, Commercial-Review, Portland, Indiana, USA, June 5, 1942, page 1.
3. Jay County, Indiana, Original Marriage License, "Mathias J. Atkinson to Elsie Lemasters, 1894"; County Marriage Returns Collection; Jay County Historical Society, Portland, Indiana.
4. 1940 U.S. census, Mercer County, Ohio, population schedule, Ft. Recovery, enumeration district 54-26, SD 4, sheet 1A, household 4, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 23 April 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
5. Luman W. Leamasters household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 38-8, SD 5, sheet 6A, dwelling 127, family 127; National Archives micropublication T626, roll 595.
6. Mathias J. Atkinson household, 1920 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Township, ED 72, SD 67, sheet 5, dwelling 54, family 54; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 440.
7. 1910 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Township, enumeration district 67, SD 8, sheet 4B, dwelling 87, family 89; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 23 April 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
8. Mathias J. Atkinson household, 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison township, ED 62, SD 67, sheet 3, dwelling 63, family 64; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 380.
9. Walker Lemasters household, 1880 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 161, SD 6, page 4, dwelling 47, family 48; National Archives micropublication T9, roll 287.
10. Complete Directory of Jay County (Portland, Indiana, USA: M. & M. Directory Co., 1907), page 230.
11. Milton T. Jay, History of Jay County, Indiana: including its World War Record and Incorporating the Montgomery History (Indianapolis, Indiana, USA: Historical Publishing Company, 1922), page 197.
12. Mrs. John H. Yeager obituary, Commercial-Review, Portland, Indiana, USA, March 17, 1922, page 2.
13. M.J. Atkinson obituary, Portland Commercial-Review, Portland, Indiana, USA, August 25, 1923, page 1.

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.

LeMaster family : Salamonia Christian Church

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:24:00 +0000

Thanks to Dropbox, and fellow researcher Judy Ahrens, was able to obtain information regarding the following LeMaster family members on the rolls of the Salamonia Christian Church at Salamonia, Jay County, Indiana. Judy has been researching the church membership.

296. Lemaster, Ann: 23 Dec 1951? by baptism by O. S. Bennet.

Residence: Union City, IN. Trans.?

297. Lemaster, Ardis: 1 Sep 1946 by baptism by John Sparks.

Name changed to Bickel.

298. Lemaster, Becky: 25 Jun 1972 by baptism by Rev. Don Potter.

299. Lemaster, Charles: 20 Jul 1958 by baptism by A. K. Timmons.

Residence: Ft. Wayne, IN.

300. Lemaster, Danny: Aug 1959 by baptism by Rev. Charles H. Marler

Transferred to Reform: 17 Apr 1966.

301. Lemaster, Douglas: 20 Jul 1958 by baptism by A. K. Timmons.

302. Lemaster, Gary: 20 Jul 1958 by baptism by A. K. Timmons.

Residence: Ft. Wayne, IN.

303. Lemaster, Helen: 29 Apr by letter, Alva Lindsay.

304. Lemaster, Mrs. Jean: 21 Sep 1969 by baptism by Rev Clapp.

Residence: Ft. Recovery, OH.

305.^OW Lemaster, John Jr.: 29 Apr 1962 by letter, Alva Lindsay.

Residence: Anderson. Removal by death: 27 Mar 1973.

306.^W Lemaster, John Sr.: 23 Jan 1949 by baptism by O. S. Bennet.

Removal by death: 13 Jan 1980.

307. Lemaster, Judy: 24 Apr 1966 by baptism by Paul Albertson.

Residence: Salamonia, IN.

308. Lemaster, Kay: 20 Jul 1958.

309. Lemaster, Larry: 20 Jul 1958 by baptism by A. K. Timmons.

Removal by death: 28 Feb 1974.

310. Lemaster, Leland: 20 Jul 1958 by baptism by A. K. Timmons.

Residence: Ft. Wayne, IN.

311.^OW Lemaster, Roger Jr.: 23 Jan 1949 by baptism by O. S. Bennet.

Removal by death: 1972.

312. Lemaster, Terry: 20 Jul 1958 by baptism by A. K. Timmons.

Residence: Ft. Wayne, IN. Transferred to Church of Christ in Des Moines,

Iowa: Apr 1972.

The "O" means she had a copy of their obituary, and the "W" meant she had a copy of their funeral home record from the Williamson funeral home.

Funeral Record of Lola Mae Ingram

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:58:00 +0000

Abstracts of Johnson Funeral Home 1916-1943 by Susan D. Hilburn & Catherine S. Richey

Located this book in the Allen County Public Library in Ft. Wayne, Indiana several months ago and just now getting around to abstracting the information.

Ingram, Lola Mae; married/white/houseworker; died 21 JUL 1941 in U.S. Public Health Service at Hot Springs, Ark. at age 22 yrs, 4 mos, 18 days of pneumonia; born 3 MAR 1919 at Minturn, Ark.; father, SAM RICE; mother's maiden name, Bertie BERRY; husband John C. INGRAM; certifying physician, John B. HOZIER, of Hot Springs; informant, Mrs. Bertie ACKLIN; funeral 24 Jul 1941 at 2 PM at the Methodist Church; clergyman, Rev. Earl CRAVENS. burial in Walnut Ridge; record mentions: Joe B. INGRAM, BETTIE? ACKLIN, Walter INGRAM, W.E. BERRY, Troy INGRAM, John E. INGRAM; death certificate made.

Though not a direct relative, this record appears to be the first wife of John C. INGRAM, who later married Lillie Mae CUMMINGS, Eileen's aunt.

John C. INGRAM was born June 26, 1919 and died May 28, 1988 in Jonesville, Louisiana. Lillie Mae CUMMINGS was born August 17, 1923 and died May 30, 2003 in Jonesville, Louisiana.

Chew Family, St. Joseph County, Indiana

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:14:00 +0000

Vital Statistics Index to St. Joseph County, Indiana Newspapers, 1831-1912 by David Eisen.

Located this book at the Allen County Public Library in Ft. Wayne, Indiana several months ago and just now getting around to extracting the information for my files.

CHEW, Daniel, m. Bertha Adams, SBW 17 Aug. 1889-1.

CHEW, J. Parker, m. Harriet Louisa Brown, SJV 15 Dec. 1853-3.

CHEW, Mr., d. 27 Aug. 1888, SBW 1 Sep. 1888-1.

SBW = South Bend Weekly

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The Daniel Chew who married Bertha Adams was actually Donovan R. Chew (1869-1933), son of Dr. Ezekiel Cooper and Caroline Bishop (Woolston) Chew. Donovan would be my paternal 2nd-great granduncle.

The Mr. Chew listed, was the obituary for Ezekiel Cooper Chew (1822-1888), my paternal 3rd-great grandfather.

The J. Parker Chew is unidentfied, though his presence in the county predates my immediate family by thirty years.

Wright Families Brown County, Ohio

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 10:31:00 +0000

Sometime ago I was contacted by a Wright researcher, Newell Wright, who found a posting I had placed on the WRIGHT-L mailing list back in 1997 and 2002.

He believes that his paternal 3rd-great grandmother, Kate (aka Catherine or Cate) Wright might be the same as my maternal 5th-great grandaunt, Catherine Wright, daughter of John and Sarah (Fleming) Wright.

Newell's email stated the following information about the family :

My paternal 3rd great grand-mother Kate (aka Catherine or Cate) Wright married Robert Wright (b 1784 Augusta Co., VA son of John and Margaret (McKittrick) Wright) on 11 April 1811 in Adams Co., OH. Kate Wright was born in KY likely between 1787 and 1790. Known children of Robert Wright and Kate Wright are:

John Wright 1813 – 1841 OH

Samuel Milton Wright 1815 – 1880 IA

James Wright 1817 – 1871 KS

Sarah Ann Wright 1819 – 1894 KS

Isaac Newton Wright 1824 – 1872 KS (my ancestor)

Elvira Wright 1829 – 1867 KS

Amanda Wright 1831 IN – 1867 KS

(All believed to be born in Adams/Brown Co., OH except for Amanda who was born in Fountain Co., IN)

The information that I have on my maternal 5th-great grandaunt, Catherine, was that she was born May 12, 1789 (no source data), the daughter of John and Sarah (Fleming) Wright.

There are several Wright families in the Adams/Brown/Highland County, Ohio area that I haven't yet sorted out. What led Newell to contact me was studying the migration pattern of Revolutionary War soldier Robert Wright (1758-1840 brother of my John) from Cambridge to Bordentown; then Philadelphia, move to Westmoreland Co., PA, Mason County, KY and then to Brown County, Ohio. His ancestor, William Wright had a migratory pattern from Ireland to Augusta Co., VA and then to Kentucky/Ohio. There were five brothers in this family. He states further:

Of the five brothers, I descend from John Wright and Margaret McKittrick who settled north of Decatur, Byrd Twp, Brown Co., OH. John Wright (bef 1757 - 1823) also served in Am Revolution and fortunately several descendants applied to DAR for membership and did a fair job of documenting his children and their respective spouses. John Wright (bef 1757 - 1823) death has been taken from estate documents dated Sep 1823 that were were obtained from Brown County, OH which is different that the "collective" date of 1824. Caldwell has William, James and Alexander settling in Highland Co. Ohio and Samuel settling on Cherry Fork, Wayne Twp,. Adams Co.

These early Wright families were in Brown County in Byrd Twp. at the same time my Wrights were in Pleasant Twp. Regarding his ancestor, Robert, he wrote further:

After Robert and Katy's 11 Apr 1811 marriage by Wm Baldridge in Adams Co (Marriage Bk 1, pg 111)., Robert was enumerated in Byrd Twp., Brown Co., Ohio in 1820 and 1830 with family member's ages that match Katy and children's ages. Robert was again enumerated in 1840 Fountain Co., IN and 1850 District 13 (Ashland) Wapello Co., IA with children, but not with Katy and all children in IN or IA. Note, that on 21 Feb 1811 Wm Baldridge married another Robert Wright, also born 1784 VA, but son of Samuel Wright Wayne Twp., Adams Co., to Polly Kerr. This Robert and Poly subsequently moved to and died in Clinton, IN. I mention this in that members of my family were perplexed and frustrated for many of years by the number of Wrights in Brown/Adams Co.

In his initial email, Newell left me with some questions that I wasn't able to answer. I'm posting them here in hopes that others who may be related to these families can respond.

After going for so many decades with no understanding of the MA Wrights in Brown Co., your information has left me with a simple explanation to uncountable hours of family discussions. I may as well apologize now for the many questions that are swirling in my head. It will take me a while to sort through them. However, if you would be so kind to respond to the following three questions when you find time?

1. Do you know if Robert (1758 MA - 1840) or John Wright (1755 MA - 1810) left wills or estate documents that refer to heirs?

2. To your knowledge, did other Wright families settle in what subsequently became Brown Co., Ohio than descendants of John and Hannah (Fessenden) Wright and John and Margaret (McKittrick) Wright?

3. Do you have source for date and place of birth for Catherine and her KY born siblings?

Unfortunately, at this time the sources for the information I have on this line is unknown, probably from a family group sheet compiled by someone when in pre-computer days. I do not know if there were other Wright families that settled in the area beside "my" Wright line and the John and Margaret (McKittrick) Wright line. As for the wills, I might have them in my files, but I haven't put my hands on them yet.

Postcard Friday : Union is strength - Let's stick together!

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:46:00 +0000

Fort Recovery, Ohio

March 8, 1912

Miss Vera Haley

Portland, Ind..

RFD 9

March 7, 1912

Dear friend -

How are you? I am feeling fine. Received your card at noon. I was out at the spelling school last night, had a good time. This is a bad day. I am here by my self now. Earl went down to his grandma's for supper so I am left alone for supper. I suppose you are wondering what I am going to have. Eggs and bannas for supper. I had cheese and crackers for dinner. Just talked to Jesse N. He said he saw you last night.

Your friend,

Clarence

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This postcard was part of the collection of my paternal great-uncle and aunt, Clarence and Vera (Haley) Stuber.

Funeral Home Records Darke County, Ohio

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:23:00 +0000

Miller Funeral Home Records, 1917 to 1950, Greenville, Ohio

Published by Darke County Genealogical Society, Greenville, Ohio, 1990

Located this book at the Allen County Public Library in Ft. Wayne, Indiana several months ago and just now getting around to extracting the information for my files.

GROENDYKE, ANNA d 31 Oct 1938 RR#1 Hollansburg BD Palestine Cem 2 Nov 1938 b Oct 1866 Liberty Twp age 72-0-23 f GEORGE MILLER York Co PA m BARBARA BOLLINGER sp PERRY GROENDYKE widowed housekeeper

GROENDYKE, WALTER MAIN d 31 Dec 1943 Wayne Hosp Greenville OH BD Greenville Cem Greenville OH 4 Jan 1944 b 8 Dec 1894 Liberty Twp Dke Co OH age 49-0-23 f PERRY GROENDYKE m Eva OWENS sp GEORGIA GROENDYKE married occ: Frigidaire Corp Dayton OH World War I sp GEORGIA 46 years

LAMBERTSON, JAMES WILSON d 22 June 1946 RR#3 Versailles OH BD 25 June 1946 Abbottsville Cem Dke Co OH b 13 May 1857 Montgomery Co OH age 89-1-9 f CARMEN LAMBERTSON m MARY VAN LUE widowed farmer sp EVA JANE LAMBERTSON sons ORA Versailles & OMER Dayton, 1 daughter Mrs PEARL LENINGTON New Paris, 5 grandchildren, 12 greatgrandchildren, 1 halfbrother HARRY O. WEAVER New York city

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The Anna Groendyke (1866-1938) was my paternal 2nd cousin 3 times removed on the Petry side, she had married Perry Groendyke, my maternal 3rd great granduncle.

The Walter Main Groendyek (1894-1943) was Perry's son and Anna's stepson. his death certificate tells how he fractured his skull in an accidental fall down some stairs.

The James Wilson Lambertson (1857-1946) was my maternal first cousin 4 times removed. I didn't know where he was buried, and also the name of son Ora was new to me. I didn't know James had a half-brother, which indicates that his mother remarried after his father's death, might be why couldn't find her in later census records.

Correcting Birth Date Mary Elsie LeMaster (1873 Darke County, Ohio)

noreply@blogger.com (Travis LeMaster) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:18:00 +0000

While preparing an analysis for my paternal great-grandaunt, Mary Elsie (LeMaster) Atkinson, I was searching for documentation of her birth in FamilySearch's birth record database for Ohio. My database had her birth date as April 25, 1872 in Rose Hill, Darke County, Ohio, so I knew she should be listed.

Unable to find her in the index, I decided I would browse the individual county records for Darke County and see what they had. Fortunately, they did have a birth volume that would cover the time period when she was born.

The volume had an index, and I was able to locate her. Her name was mispelled as Mary E. Leamaster.

Thinking that was why she wasn't indexed, I went back the main search screen at FamilySearch and tried to find her. No such luck.

Going back to the index, and then paging through the volume, I did find her birth record, and a surprise. The date I had was totally wrong. Her birth was listed as February 15, 1873 instead of April 25, 1872, which was what her obituary had stated. What a discrepancy. Another good reason to seek multiple sources for a fact and dig until you get the original record.

Source : "Ohio, Births and Christenings, 1821-2003." Index and Images. FamilySearch. (https://familysearch.org) accessed 18 April 2013, Darke County, Ohio Birth Registers with index 1863-1878 vol. 1.