I’ve done some here and there over the years though and I now know when I’ve hit the genealogical jackpot so to speak – or when I’m in for a painful day of begging for records.

I’ve  physically researched in the following courthouses (I’ve sent letters to many more):
Douglas County, Kansas
Leavenworth County, Kansas
Indiana County, Pennsylvania
Bedford County, Virginia
Montgomery County, Virginia
Washington County, Iowa
Keokuk County, Iowa
Buena Vista County, Iowa
Crawford County, Iowa
Ringgold County, Iowa
Dakota County, Nebraska

It never ceases to amaze me that even though most of the courthouses contain the same types of documents, they are so completely  different in how easily accessible those documents are.

I’m not going to come out and say which ones stink for research.

With my luck, those county clerks would find me in GoogleLand and never help me out again.   If you want to know about a specific one from the list above, you can drop me a line and I’d be glad to let you know my opinion (if I can remember it).

I would just like to point out that you never know exactly what to expect when it comes to courthouses, so be prepared for anything!

The Good:

• A large room with wide open counters to place the fifty pound books on is always a plus.
• Being left to your own devices to pull whatever books you want off the shelves.
• Making your own copies and paying at the end.
• Being able to scan or take pictures of documents.
• Great indexes – some even online!

The Bad:

• Cramped rooms with no space for opening the books.
• Having to ask for copies to be made for you – especially when the people working there are busy with “real work”.
• When they don’t know where the older records are stored.  I’ve seen them searching under boxes of Christmas decorations before.  They were (thankfully) eventually found in the attic.
• When very delicate pages of old books aren’t protected in any way.

And the Ugly:

• Having no direct access to the books yourself.  Not being allowed behind the counter. Having to ask for each specific book and have it handed over the counter to you.  And then having to ask for them to make specific copies for you.  Annoying.
• Being made to feel like you are inconveniencing the people who work there.  They have “real work” to do and apparently playing “go between” between me and the books isn’t their idea of real work.
• Expensive copies.  50 cents a copy seems pretty steep to me – especially when I want full probate files copied.  I seriously spent $60 getting two probate record files at one courthouse.  (I really hope my husband doesn’t read this….)
• Strange hours.  Closing at 2:30 after taking an hour lunch break?  Really?
• No scanning.  No picture taking.
• When the books/documents are no longer even at the courthouse!  Having to write a letter and send money across the state to get a copy of a probate file.  Ridiculous.

I’m sure that you veteran courthouse researchers out there have had similar experiences.  What would you add to the list??

My Genealogy Bank membership came in handy yet again and I solved the mystery of where/when she got married to a Mr. Rickman (one of at least 4 husbands).  She lived in Council Bluffs, IA – which is across the river from Omaha, NE (she may have lived there at times also).  The announcement of her marriage license was found there in the Omaha World Herald, dated April 16, 1904.  Now maybe I can send away for the marriage record.

I just love how it’s titled “Connubial Ventures”. 

I found this in the Omaha World Herald, dated March 3, 1907.

Solomon Madison Hattery was my great-great grandmother’s brother.  He seemed to live a pretty rough life.

STRUCK BY TRAIN

Solomon M. Hattery. Demented or Drunk.  Gets in Way of Illinois Central

Solomon M. Hattery, of 1737 South Seventh street was struck by an Illinois Central passenger going east at 6:30 o’clock last evening.  He stood on Broadway between Sixteenth and Seventeenth and the engineer was right upon him before he was noticed.  Shrill alarm from the whistle had no effect for it struck him and knocked him some distance to one side.  The train was stopped the man picked up and he was conveyed to the depot and from there taken in the ambulance to the new hospital.  There a careful examination disclosed no broken bones and the man was decided to be very much under the influence of liquor.

Hattery was picked up demented last summer and taken to the hospital.  It is said that his wife has left him with the intention of procuring a divorce and that this fact is believed to be responsible in a measure for the condition in which he was found last evening.

I posted about this in March and didn’t hear anything since then.

I decided to get aggressive and made some phone calls.  I’m finally figuring out that it is better to speak directly to people instead of sending an email.  I waited on hold to the National Archives for about 20 minutes, after the recording assured me every thirty seconds that the wait was 1 minute and 8 seconds.    Hmm.  Not sure who recorded that message.

I finally got through and then to my dismay was told that I needed to speak to someone else entirely.  Thankfully, it was a quick transfer and the next person picked the phone up immediately.  I don’t think I could have handled another wait on the phone. Especially since my kids seem to think that this is the time to make messes, loud noises, need immediate attention, or fight with each other.

The woman I spoke with was very helpful.  She explained to me the reason finding my ancestor’s pension record was so difficult.  He died in 1931 and the records were closed out in 1929.  That means that they definitely have everything from 1929 and before,but it gets tricky beyond that.  The VA had the records (and could possibly still have the records).  The problem is that the Civil War records weren’t put in a separate section to themselves.  They are mixed with other pensions (including WWI).  As they find these older records, they pile them up and send them to the National Archives.  But only as they find them.  They haven’t gone through them all specifically to pull the Civil War records out.  That means that my ancestor’s pension file could be in either place.

The reason I’ve had so much trouble in the past, is that the automated ordering system at the Archives immediately kicks a message back to me saying that they don’t have records for the date I’m searching.  I called the VA and they also told me the same thing. There is obviously some miscommunication between them.  I think that it would be wonderful if the VA would take the time to go through the files and forward all of the Civil War pensions to the NARA once and for all.  I don’t when this will happen.  I know that I’m not the only one that has had this problem though.

Anyway, back to my story.  The woman gave me the number to their resident pension expert and told me that he should be able to go and see if the record is there.  If not, he could walk me through the process of obtaining the record from the VA.

After a few days of phone tag, I emailed my ancestor’s information to him and he went and searched for it.  I now know that John Edwards’ pension is NOT at the National Archives.

Here is what he told me:

The way to access the file that you are requesting is via the Department of Veteran Affairs.  We recognize that we should have these files in the National Archives and we are working with the Department of Veteran Affairs to have them transferred to us.  You need to write a letter to the VA Freedom of Information Officer.  State that you are requesting access to the pension file under the Freedom of Information Act.  You must state your willingness to pay applicable fees or provide a justification to support a fee waiver.

The address to the VA FOIA/Privacy Act Officer is:

Department of Veteran Affairs

Veterans Benefits Administration (20M33)

810 Vermont Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20420

So, I now have another letter to write.

I’m hoping that it doesn’t take months upon months to hear back from the VA.  I guess I shouldn’t be too impatient though.  I’ve been waiting almost 8 years, what’s another 6 months?  I think that I may give them my parents’ address as a backup in case they take too long in getting back with me.  We will be moving next summer and then moving again the summer after that. (Gotta love the military!)  I would hate for them to finally send his packet and have it lost in the abyss of undeliverable mail. I just hope that they are able to give me some sort of confirmation, or that there is some way for me to verify that they have received my request and are processing it.  We’ll see.  I WILL get his pension packet someday in the near future….

My great-great grandmother is somewhat of a mystery to me.

She must either have been quite the character, or else quite the mess.  I can’t decide which.

She moved around and married so many times that I don’t know what to think. I still have a lot of research that needs to be done, but I’m hoping that by putting it out here, some light bulb will go off and I’ll know where I should search next.  Or better yet, maybe another researcher with some of the info I need will find me!

Here is a rundown of what I do know:

April 1880 She is born in Deloit, Crawford county, IA to Solomon Hattery (Sr.) and Martha Jane Mowery.  She has 5 older siblings and possibly 2 step-siblings from her mother’s first marriage, although I don’t have any proof that they ever lived with or near her.

June 1880 Here is her family in the 1880 census, living at Deloit, Crawford county, IA.
1) Solomon Hattry, white, male, age 29, married, laborer, born in OH
2) Martha J, white, female, age 37, wife, married, keeping house, born in IL, father born in PA, mother born in IL
3) Solomon M, white, male, age 7, son, born in IA, father born in OH, mother born in IL
4) Minnie B, white, female, age 5, daughter, born in IA, father born in OH, mother born in IL
5) Anna D, white, female, age 3, daughter, born in IA, father born in OH, mother born in IL
6) James D, white, male, age 3, son, born in IA, father born in OH, mother born in IL
7) Elias, white, male, age 1, son, born in IA, father born in OH, mother born in iL
8) Ella J, white, female, age 2 months, born in March, daughter, born in IA, father born in OH, mother born in IL

1895 She is living with her mother in Vail, Crawford county, IA. Her parents were divorced.
1. Martha J. Haltery, age 53, born in Penna, white, Crawford, Vail
2. Elias Haltery, age 16, born in Crawford Co, IA, white, Crawford, Vail
3. Ella Haltery, age 15, born in Crawford Co, IA, white, Crawford, Vail
4. Lily Haltery, age 6, born in Crawford Co, IA, white, Crawford, Vail

23 Sep 1896 She is married to John Edwards in Denison, Crawford, IA.

June 1897 Her first child, Alma, is born in Denison, Crawford, IA.

28 Sep 1898 Her second child (my great-grandfather) Alfred Leroy is born in Vail, Crawford, IA.

5 June 1900. She is living in Herdland Twp, Clay county, IA with her husband John Edwards and their children.
1) John Edwards, head, white, male, June 1876, age 23, married for 4 years, born in IA, father born in Canada, mother born in MI, day laborer, unemployed 3 months, can read, write, and speak English
2) Ella Edwards, wife, white, female, April 1880, age 20, married 4 years, 2 of 2 children living, born in IA, father born in IL, mother born in OH
3) Alma Edwards, daughter, white, female, June 1897, age 2, single, born in IA, parents born in IA
4) Alfred Edwards, son, white, male, Sep 1898, age 1, single, born in IA, parents born in IA

22 Nov 1900 A son, Elton Elias is born. (He later changes his name to Mike Roberts, and says that his father was in fact a man named Perry Roberts.  When you read the divorce papers below, you will realize that is very possible).

31 Oct 1902 A daughter, May is born.

8 May 1903 John Edwards files for divorce.
Petition in Equity, April Term 1903.
John Edwards Jr. plaintiff
vs.
Ella Edwards defendant

Petition in Equity.
Count One.
Plaintiff for cause of action states that he is now and for many years past has been a good faith resident of Crawford County Iowa.
Count Two.
That he married this defendant at Denison Iowa on the 23 day of Sept. 1896.
Count Three.
That from said marriage there was born four children viz: Alma aged 5 years past, Alfred aged 4 years past, Elias aged 2 years past and May born October 31, 1902.
Count Four.
That all of said children are now in the custody of this plaintiff.
Count Five.
That the plaintiff has at all times conducted himself towards the defendant as a loving and affectionate husband.
Count Six.
That the defendant disregarding her duty towards her husband has at various times since their marriage been guilty of and committed the crime of adultery in Crawford and Harrison Counties Iowa.
Count Seven.
That the defendant is not a fit person to care for or attend to the wants of said minor children nor is she able.

Wherefore the plaintiff prays that he may be divorced from the bonds of matrimony heretofore existing between him and the defendant and that he may be awarded the care and custody of the children and such other and farther relief as may be equitable and just in the premises
John Edwards Jr. [signed]

(He was awarded custody of the 4 children.)

1903-1905 She must have married Dave Rickman sometime during this period.

1905. She is in the Iowa State Census in Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie, IA.
1. Dave Rickman, 1312 W. Bway
2. Ella Rickman, 1312 W Bway

16 March 1907. She is mentioned in a newspaper article in the Clinton Mirror.
Solomon M. Hattery was struck by an Illinois Central train as he was walking on the track near the business section of Council Bluffs and injured so badly that he may not recover. Hattery lives with a sister, Mrs. Rickman. Hattery is at a hospital suffering intensely and is unconscious.

Abt. 1909. A son, Merle Rickman is born

26 April 1910 She is living in Chadron, Dawes, Nebraska – and she is divorced.
They were living on Egan Street.
1. John D. Knight, head, m, w, 37, M1 15 yrs, born in IA, parents born in IA?, speaks English, switchman for the RR, not out of work, out of work 4 weeks in 1929, reads and writes, rents a home
2. Emma Knight, wife, f, w, 36, M1 15 yrs, 5 of 5 children living, born in SD, parents born in Germany, speaks English, no occupation, reads nad writes
3. Charlie…
4. Cecil…
5. John…
6. Theodore…
7. Helen…
8. Ella Rickman, rooming, female, white, 29, divorced, 5 of 5 children living, born in IA, parents born in IA, speaks English, does housework, is out of work, was not out of work in 1929, reads and writes
9. Merle Rickman, rommer, male, white, age 1, single, born in IA, parents born in IA

17 Feb 1912. She marries B.F. Proffitt in Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie, IA.

19 Jan 1914. She marries William E. Kryselmier in Mills county, IA.

6 Jan 1920. She is living with her daughter May and her family. Her son Merle is living with her. She is still listed as married.
1) Robert L. Johnson, head, renting, male, white, age 21, married, reads and writes, born in IA, parents born in U.S., speaks English, Laborer for RR Co., wage worker
2) May R., wife, female, white, age 17, married, reads and writes, born in IA, parents born in IA, speaks English, no occupation
3) Ella J. Kryselmeier, mother-in-law, female, white, age 39, married, reads and writes, born in IA, father born in IL, mother born in OH, speaks English, housekeeper in private home, wage worker
4) Merle E. Kryselmier, brother-in-law, male, white, age 10, single, attended school, reads and writes, born in IA, father born in U.S., mother born in Iowa, speaks English, no occupation

1 Jan 1925. Iowa State Census. She is living in Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie, IA as a boarder. She is widowed and her son Merle is not living with her. He would have been about 15. What happened to him?
1) Charley H. Jaques, head, male, white, age 55, married, owned home, mortgaged, value of home $1000, $200 mortgaged, $400 insurance carried on home, attended grade school, completed 6th grade, reads and writes, born in IA, father Thomas V. Zaques, born in France, mother unknown, born in Ireland, married in England
2) Jane N. Jaques, wife, female, white, age 54, married, attended grade school, completed 6th grade, reads and writes, born in IA, father Frank C. Russel, born in MA, mother Mary Mitchell, born in NY, married in Chicago, Illinois
3) Ella J. Kryselmier, boarder, female, white, age 45, widowed, attended grade school, completed 8th grade, reads and writes, born in IA, father Solomon Hattery, born in IL, mother Martha J. Mowery, born in Illinois, married in Clinton, Ohio

After 1925, I’m not sure what happened to her.  Did she marry again?  Did she stay in Council Bluffs?

I have a lot more research work to be done on her so that I can fill in some of the blanks on the rest of her very interesting life…

I don’t have a birth or death date for him. What I do have is census records and a very thick Civil War pension packet – which I am very grateful for.

I believe that his parents are William Pierce and Amy Sharp Wriggins, but I have yet to find definitive proof of this. There is male child living with their family in the 1830 census which would fit his age. William’s father was a Ward Pierce, which is what Hedger named his first child. I just have a gut feeling that this is the right family. I want a document that proves it though.

I have tried ordering Hedger’s death certificate, but have been unsuccessful so far.  Ordering stuff from New Jersey seems to take a long time.  I’m used to the speed of small Midwest towns and their quiet courthouses.

Here is a chronology of Hedger’s life, which I have copied and pasted from my genealogy program. It doesn’t show the details of each event (ie. transcriptions of the documents in his packet) but it does give a general overview of what I have on him.

Name: Hedger C. Pierce

AKA: Hedger Pearce, Hugo Pearce, Edgar C Pierce
Life Range: Abt 1818 – After 28 Nov 1892
Age:

Abt 1818 Birth: USA, New Jersey.
Abt 1818 Spouse (#1): USA, New Jersey, Atlantic, Egg Harbor. Phoebe Simpkins (Abt 1818-1872). born in Egg Harbor, Atlantic, New Jersey, USA. Died on 23 Dec 1872 in Gloucester City, Camden, New Jersey, USA.
12 1830 Census: USA, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
19 1837 May 31 Marriage (1): USA, New Jersey, Atlantic. Phoebe Simpkins (Abt 1818-1872). in , Atlantic, New Jersey, USA.
22 1840 Census: USA, New Jersey, Atlantic, Mullica Twp.
22 1840 Jul 18 Son born (1-#1): USA, New Jersey, Gloucester. Ward Pierce (1840-1921). born in , Gloucester, New Jersey, USA. Died on 11 Nov 1921 in Lakewood, Ocean, New Jersey, USA.
25 Abt 1843 Daughter born (1-#2): USA, New Jersey. Deborah Pierce (Abt 1843- ). born in , , New Jersey, USA.
29 Abt 1847 Spouse (#2): USA, Pennsylvania. Margaret (Abt 1847- ). born in , , Pennsylvania, USA.
31 Abt 1849 Daughter born (1-#3): USA, New Jersey. Margaret Emaly Pierce (Abt 1849- ). born in , , New Jersey, USA.
Marriage (2): _______________. Margaret (Abt 1847- ).
32 1850 Aug 23 Census: USA, New Jersey, Camden, Washington Twp.
42 1860 Mar 15 Death of Father: USA, New Jersey, Gloucester, Clayton Twp. William Pierce (1794-1860).
42 1860 Jun 22 Census: USA, New Jersey, Camden, Gloucester Twp.
43 1861 Sep 23 Enlisted: _______________.
46 1864 Jan 1 Enlisted: USA, Pennsylvania, Carbon, Beaver Meadows.
46 1864 Jan 3 Mustered: USA, Pennsylvania, Carbon, Beaver Meadows.
46 1864 May Hospital: USA, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Philadelphia.
46 1864 May Hospital: USA, D.C., , Washington.
46 1864 May 8 Wounded: USA, Virginia, Spotsylvania, Laurel Hill.
46 1864 Jun Hospital: USA, New York, New York, Davids’ Island.
46 1864 Jun 19 Hospital: USA, New Jersey, Essex, Newark.
47 1865 Jan 19 Transferred: _______________. to Co. G. 19th Regt. VRC.
47 1865 Aug 10 Honorable Discharge: USA, New York, Erie, Buffalo.
47 1865 Oct 23 Residence: USA, New Jersey, Camden.
47 1865 Oct 23 Affidavit: _______________.
50 1868 Sep 24 Increase in Pension Rejected: _______________.
52 1870 Jun 18 Census: USA, New Jersey, Camden, Gloucester City.
54 1872 Dec 23 Death of Spouse (#1): USA, New Jersey, Camden, Gloucester City. Phoebe Simpkins (Abt 1818-1872).
55 1873 Sep 6 Physical Description: USA, New Jersey, Camden. 5’4″ tall, 112 lbs. with a light complexion.
57 1875 Oct 1 Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension: USA, New Jersey, Camden.
58 1876 Sep 21 Increase in Pension Rejected: _______________.
59 1877 Feb 27 Death of Mother: USA, New Jersey, Gloucester, Clayton. Amy Sharp Wriggins (1795-1877).
60 1878 Oct 17 Residence: USA, New Jersey, Camden, Gloucester City. Jersey Avenue.
60 1878 Oct 17 Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension: USA, New Jersey, Camden.
60 1878 Dec 21 Increase in Pension Rejected: _______________.
62 1880 Jun 15 Census: USA, New Jersey, Camden, Gloucester City.
63 1881 Jun 2 Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension: USA, New Jersey, Camden.
63 1881 Sep 15 Pension Increase: _______________. from $4.00 to $8.00 monthly.
67 1885 Dec 31 Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension: USA, New Jersey, Salem.
67 1885 Dec 31 Residence: USA, New Jersey, Salem, Elmer.
68 1886 Mar 18 Pension Increase: _______________. from $8.00 to $10.00 monthly.
69 1887 Sep 13 Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension: USA, New Jersey, Salem.
69 1887 Dec 14 Residence: USA, New Jersey, Salem, Elmer.
70 1888 Feb 11 Residence: USA, New Jersey, Salem, Elmer.
70 1888 Mar 1 Increase in Pension Rejected: USA, New Jersey, Salem, Elmer.
72 1890 Census: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland, Bridgeton. veterans schedule.
72 1890 Jun 23 Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland.
73 1891 Mar 3 Illness: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland, Bridgeton.
74 1892 Apr 20 Letter: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland, Bridgeton. from Ward Pierce to Hon. John R. McPherson.
74 1892 Jul 6 Affidavit: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland.
74 1892 Nov 16 Declaration for the Increase of an Invalid Pension: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland.
74 1892 Nov 16 Residence: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland, Bridgeton. 194 Broad Street.
74 1892 Nov 28 Physician’s Affidavit: USA, New Jersey, Cumberland, Bridgeton.
74 After 1892 Nov 28 Death: _______________.

The last physician’s affidavit, dated28 Nov 1892, stated “that he is bedridden with partial paralasys of speech, complete paralasys of right arm, and almost total paralasys of right leg.  Both feet are [?]  while the body is extremely emaciated.  He is unable to assist himself materially at any thing and requires constant attention from a nurse.”

An affidavit from earlier in the year said “we are personally acquainted with Hedger C Pirce and know that his son Ward Pirce can not do any work that it takes all his time with his Father as he is in a helpless condtion and if it was not for the charrity of the people he would be compelled to take him to the alms House”.  He was obviously not able to take care of himself.

I don’t think that he would have lived for too much longer after 1892, but I have yet to find his death certificate, gravestone, or obituary.  I think that I need to make a road trip to New Jersey!! 

UFO Above the Earth

I was getting very frustrated.

But  I’ve solved the mystery with the help of a very knowledgeable guy at the Niagara County Historian’s Office in Lockport.  He sat and pored through the records for me and found what I was looking for.

Thomas was born in Lockport and not England.  That was the first thing that I had been trying to clear up.

He wasn’t an orphan (or an alien ).  His father died when he was young and his mother (Sarah/Sally) remarried a George Hanscomb (A few of the variations I’ve seen are Hanson, Hanascomb, Hascomb, and Hancomb.)

We found the announcement in the Lockport Daily Journal from 2 Jan 1860:

Mr. George Hascomb of Wilson to Miss Sarah Woods of Lockport, by the Rev. R. Norton.

Thomas was born in September 1859 and his mother married George in Jan 1860.  George would have been the only father that Thomas knew.

That means that the 1870 census that I found, where Thomas Woods was 14 and living with George and Sarah Hanson was indeed him.

At the historian’s office, we were also able to search the state census.  I love state census.  I wish that all states had their own census.  It can be so helpful.

Anyway, I found them in the 1865 census: George, Sarah, Thomas, and Anna Hancomb.  Yes, Thomas was listed as Thomas Hancomb.  I now have another name to search for.

He was also in the 1892 census, living with his mother.  She was 73 and he was 34.

And we even found a newspaper abstract of his mother’s obituary. The actual newspaper is no longer available for this time period (I searched the library also).:

Mrs. Sarah Hanascomb. May 19, 1893 at home of son Thomas Woods, 139 N. Adam St. Lockport, age 72 years.  Cold Springs.

Even though she was listed as having been buried in Cold Springs Cemetery, we weren’t able to locate her gravestone in the short amount of time we had in Niagara county.  It was not listed in the tombstone transcription, but it is possible that it was in an older section of the cemetery.  Maybe on our next trip (whenever that might be!).

Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to head across the street to the courthouse and check out what records may have been available there.  I am happy to have at least solved my mystery though.  Thomas Woods did indeed exist before 1900.

I now have more things to look for:

1. When/where did Thomas’ real father, Henry Woods die?   Is he buried there in Lockport?  Did he die on the way over from England? Actually, now that I think about it, I shouldn’t rule out the possibility of him having run off or of them being divorced.  I think that it’s more likely that he died though.

2. When did Sarah Woods/Hanscomb immigrate?  Where in England was she from?

3. What happened to Thomas’  half sister Anna/Hannah?  Did she live to adulthood?  Did she marry?  There is no mention of her in Thomas’ obituary in 1934.

4. Where is Thomas in the 1880 census?  Is he perhaps going by Thomas Hanscomb instead  of Woods?

I’m so excited that I’ve made some headway on the Woods line – finally!  I now feel like I have a jumping-off point for further research.  I can’t wait to get started.

I’d also like to add that while I was doing my research at the historian’s office, I signed a petition that I would love for you to sign also!  Thanks!

Here is the information from the flyer I received:
“Fourteen Niagara County citizens have been awarded the Medal of Honor.  One, however, has been denied his medal and his grave marker.

Michael Huskey, Irish-born Lockport native, earned the Medal of Honor during the Civil War as a sailor aboard the USS Carondelet (Steele’s Bayou Expedition, Vicksburg).  He died before he received his medal.

His family continued to reside in Niagara County and also never received his medal.  The family line has since completely died out – except for us, the people who benefited from his service and sacrifice.

Efforts are currently being made to have his grave marked and his medal put on permanent display in the rotunda of the Niagara County Courthouse.

We and Michael need your help to persuade the US Navy to honor his bravery by releasing his medal and marking his grave.”

This article is about my husband’s great uncle, Henry Woods.  It is very sad.

The Union-Sun, Lockport, NY.  Thursday Evening, August 26, 1915.

“YOUNG MAN TRAPPED DIES IN FIRE AT PARENTS’ HOME

Henry Wood Sufferer From Epilepsy, Victim of Flames at Clinton Street Residence.

In a fire that consumed the greater portion of the home of Thomas Woods, an employee of the Thompson Milling Company, at 440 Clinton St. shortly after 6 o’clock last night his son Henry, aged 23 years, was burned to death in a front room on the second floor.

Members of the family were at the supper table and Henry who had gone upstairs an hour before was assumed to be taking a nap.  The smell of smoke became noticeable to those at the table.  One of the sons ran upstairs and found the rear in flames.  He returned to warn the family.  Thoughts quickly turned to the son Henry who was a life long sufferer from epilepsy which trouble had also affected his mind.

But when effort was made to go back upstairs the flames had reached the stairway in a great mass.  One of the brothers ran outside but could not locate a ladder in the neighborhood.  Frantic effort was made to climb to the second story window to save the unfortunate boy but they failed and the fire soon turned the room in which he was known to be into a seething furnace.  The outside blinds of the window had been kept locked to prevent the young man from jumping out in a spell of epilepsy.

The department was called from Box 24 and several streams were played on the fire.  It was quickly gotten under control. Chief Coyle and firemen got inside and located the charred remains of the dead boy, under a bed.  He had evidently tried to crawl under.  Coroner Kittinger was called and took charge.

The members of the family were prostrated by the death of a son and brother and were taken in charge by neighbors.  Part of the household effects were saved but the house was practically destroyed. The loss is about $1500, covered by insurance.  The origin is not known but is believed to have been with a chimney.”

All I really have on him is the following information:

1850: Jacob C. Pirce is living in Punxsutawney, Jefferson county, PA with his wife D.A.  He’s 30 yrs old, a boat builder, and owns $500 worth of real estate.

1860: Jacob C. Pearce is still in Punxsutawney.  His wife is Dorcas Ann, born in Kentucky.  He is a carpenter with real estate worth $300.  His children are listed as John, Frances, and Effie J. (my husband’s line).

1870: Jacob Pearce is living in Rayne Twp, Indiana county, PA.  (it’s not far from Punxsutawney).  He is now a farmer.  His wife Dorcas is still alive and he still has the same 3 children, although their names are listed differently: John W, Sarah, and Jane.

The only other info I have on him is from a local history that states that he was married to Dorcas Patton and lists his siblings, parents, and grandparents.

The problem that I’m having is that he seems to have disappeared after the 1870 census.  I don’t know if he moved or died or what.  I can’t find his wife after that either. Their daughter got married in 1874 in Indiana County (according to a certificate held within the family).

So, where should I begin?

It looks like my kids will get to visit the Groundhog museum in Punxsutawney when we stop for some research.   I’m sure they’ll be excited about that.

So, here are some things I’m hoping to search for while I’m in Indiana and Jefferson counties:

• Check the tombstone census to see if his gravestone is listed somewhere.
• Check land records in Indiana and Jefferson counties.
• Check probate records in both counties.
• Check for his daughter’s official marriage record – maybe he will be listed?
• Check to see if he served in the Civil War.  He would have been in his early 40s at the time.
• See if there is a marriage record for him and Dorcas Ann Patton in Jefferson county.  I am unsure where and when he got married, but it’s a good place to start.

Any other ideas?

The woman in the front center is Rebecca White Campbell (Baker).  She was born 10 Mar 1821 in Indiana county, PA.  She lived to be 88.

I have a lot of information on her.

Census records.  Her gravestone.  Numerous affadavits and paperwork from her widow’s pension for her husband, James Baker’s service during the Civil War.  I know that she had a wooden leg later in her life.

But there is a mystery surrounding her.  I’m hoping that when I make my journey through PA this May, I will be able to solve it – at least in part.

What has intrigued me for years is the following church record, which was printed in the local newspaper in one of their historical editions.:

“Rebecca Campbell a member of this church guilty in the crime of fornication appeared before the session, acknowledged her sin and professed deep repentance” whereupon it was “resolved to restore her to her standing in the church and that notice of her sin be read out before the congregation.” (Dated 1842)

She had a daughter named Caroline, born in 1840 (when she was 19).  She didn’t marry James Baker until 1846.  Her daughter is listed as Caroline Park in the 1850 and 1860 census records.  In Caroline’s obituary, James and Rebecca are listed as her parents though.

I think that the reason this interests me so much is that things like this make our ancestors more real.  Humans who make mistakes.

What I’m wondering is who was the father of her baby?  Why didn’t he marry her?  Did he also have to acknowledge his sins before the church?  In a small community, I’m sure everyone already knew her business.  But it still would have been hard to get up in front of everyone and announce what she had done. Was she not allowed to attend church during the 2 yrs between her daughter’s birth and when she acknowledged her sins?

I am hoping that I can glean some more info from the Gilgal Church records at the local genealogy library.  If I sift through them, maybe I can solve this mystery and learn a little more about what her early life was like.

But what am I going to do with my husband and kids while I’m looking?  Maybe I’ll have to send them down the street to the Jimmy Stewart Museum.

Here is what I know about him:

10 March 1804  Born in Kentucky (but where in KY, I have NO idea)

20 Jan 1831  Married Abigail Cowen in KY (again, I don’t know where in KY.  The date was given to me by another family member and I have no actual proof of this).

2 Feb 1832  His daughter, Mary Frances Robertson is born in KY.

5 Nov 1833  His daughter Rachel Ann Robertson is born in KY.

Abt. Apr 1836 His son Hugh M. Robertson is born in KY.

8 Jul 1838  His son (my ancestor) Alexander Cower Robertson is born in KY.

22 Jul 1838  His wife, Abigail Cowen Robertson dies after the birth of her child, Alexander.

Fall 1848  Moved from Kentucky to Knox County, Ohio.  (According to the History of Washington county)

30 Jul 1850  Living in Clinton Twp, Knox Co., Ohio with a Mary S. Robertson (presumably his wife) and children and a man whom I think is his brother (Robert Robertson)  They are all listed as being born in Kentucky.

Spring 1860  Moved from Ohio to Louisa Co, IA

13 Jul 1860  Living in Morning Sun Twp, Louisa Co., Iowa.  He and his family (and Robert Robertson again) were living with the family of William Linn , who was married to his daughter Rachel.

Fall 1860  Moved from Louisa County, IA to Washington County.

12 Jul 1863  His son Hugh is killed during the Civil War.  He has a gravestone in Woodlawn Cemetery, Washington Co., IA.

1 Aug 1867  Mary S. Robertson (presumably his 2nd wife) dies and is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, Washington Co., IA.

March 1870  His daughter, Rachel Ann Linn, dies in childbirth in Louisa County, IA.

2 Sep 1870  Living in Franklin Twp, Washington Co., Iowa.  His daughter with her child, and his son with his wife and children were living with him.

26 Feb 1879  He died  and is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, Washington County, Iowa.

Please somebody smack me for taking  pictures of this gravestone with a huge shadow on them – presumably a shadow of me.  What on earth was I thinking??

I guess that the first thing I am dying to know is where in Kentucky were they from??  I need to sit down one night (after everyone has gone to bed) and go through the hundreds of John Robertsons in the 1840 census to see which families are possible matches.  I just haven’t done that yet.

It’s a bit daunting, but not as bad as it was 10 years ago when my internet connection was appalling and I had to wait forever for each page to come up.  How on earth did I ever survive??

Once I can place them in a specific county, I think that I will have an easier time trying to figure out who John and Abigail’s parents were.  And who his second wife, Mary was.

Any other ideas on where I might find out what county they lived in??

I put him waaaaaaayyyyy on the back burner, because I had gotten frustrated and I just simply moved to working on easier lines.

I am really wanting to solve this mystery though and answer some of the questions I have about him.  I will be visiting Lockport, New York (where he lived) in a couple of months.  In preparation for that visit, I have decided that I need to look over what information I have on him and try to come up with a plan of attack.  My time in NY is going to limited and I want to have a clear research plan.

Here is what I know for sure about him:

• June 1900: He was living in Lockport, NY with his wife Mary and 4 children.  He states his birth date as Sep 1856, that he had been married for 8 years, he was born in England (as were his parents), and he immigrated in 1866.
• April 1910: He was living in Lockport, NY with his wife Mary and 8 children.  His mother-in-law was also living with them.  It says that he was born in NY and his parents were born in England.
• Jan 1920: He was still living in Lockport with his wife and 8 kids. It states that he was born in NY and his parents were born in England.
• Apr 1930: Still in Lockport with his wife and 4 of his kids. Born in NY and parents born in England.
• 5 Aug 1934: He died in Lockport
• His obituary was published in the local paper as follows:                                                                                                                                         Aged Lockportian Has Passed Away.  Thomas Woods Was Native Resident and Followed Milling Trade Many Years.
  Thomas Woods, lifelong resident of this city, died of old age infirmities at 8:40 o’clock yesterday morning at his home, 440 Clinton street.  He was in his 75th year.
  Born in this city on Sept. 25, 1859, he was educated in the public schools.  For thirty-five years he was employed by the Thompson Milling Company in Market street.  He retired in 1929.
  Surviving are his widow, Mary Spencer Woods; four daughters, Mrs. Admiral Petty, Mrs. John S. Minnick, Mildred and Ida Woods; and five sons, Ernal, Hobart, Elgie, Albert and Kenneth Woods, all of this city.
• The funeral will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the home.  The Rev. Clinton H. Churchill of the Churchill Tabernacle, Buffalo, will officiate.  Burial will be in Cold Springs cemetery.

So, I’m not sure if he was born in Sep 1856 (as the census match up with) or Sep 1859 (which his death certificate states).

His obituary and death certificate state he was born in Lockport, yet the 1900 census says that he was born in England and immigrated in 1866.

His father is listed as Henry Woods.  No mother is listed – did his wife really not know his mother’s name?  That seems odd to me. She must never have know her.

I have searched the census and cemetery records for a Henry Woods and have not found him.

I did however find the following in the 1870 census:  a Thomas Woods, age 14 (that would match with an 1856 birth) born in NY and living in Lockport with a George Hanson (age 60, born in England) and his wife Sarah (age 53, born in England) and a Hannah Woods (age 9, born in NY).  I’m not positive that this is my Thomas, but he definitely fits!

So, was Thomas an orphan?? Did he immigrate from England with his father Henry, who maybe died soon after?  Was he orphaned while still in England and did he immigrate with George and Sarah?  I will have

I have not been able to find him anywhere  in the 1860 or 1880 census.  His obituary stated that he was a “lifelong” resident of Lockport.  If he always lived there, then where is he??

I also do not have a marriage record for him.  According to the 1900 census, they had been married 8 years, putting their marriage date to around 1892.

So, when I head to Lockport this May, I will be searching for the following:

1. His gravestone in Cold Springs Cemetery.
2. I will search through the New York State census records (1865 and 1875).
3. I will look for a marriage record and/or an announcement in the newspaper.
4. I will try to see if there are any probate or court records for Thomas or his father Henry. If Henry died when Thomas was young and he was left an orphan, would there be any records in the courthouse pertaining to who was granted custody of him?

Any other suggestions as to how I can solve this mystery? I’m hoping that I can make some real progress while I’m in the area!

My great-grandfather was Alfred LeRoy Edwards. Here he is:

I used to be confident that his parents were John Edwards and Ella Hattery, but now I’m not so sure.

Ella had 4 children while she was married to John.  The marriage ended in divorce though.  Here is what the divorce paperwork had to say:

Petition in Equity, April Term 1903.
John Edwards Jr. plaintiff
vs.
Ella Edwards  defendant

Petition in Equity.
Count One.
Plaintiff for cause of action states that he is now and for many years past has been a good faith resident of Crawford County Iowa.
Count Two.
That he married this defendant at Denison Iowa on the 23 day of Sept. 1896.
Count Three.
That from said marriage there was born four children viz: Alma aged 5 years past, Alfred aged 4 years past, Elias aged 2 years past and May born October 31, 1902.
Count Four.
That all of said children are now in the custody of this plaintiff.
Count Five.
That the plaintiff has at all times conducted himself towards the defendant as a loving and affectionate husband.
Count Six.
That the defendant disregarding her duty towards her husband has at various times since their marriage been guilty of and committed the crime of adultery in Crawford and Harrison Counties Iowa.
Count Seven.
That the defendant is not a fit person to care for or attend to the wants of said minor children nor is she able.

Wherefore the plaintiff prays that he may be divorced from the bonds of matrimony heretofore existing between him and the defendant and that he may be awarded the care and custody of the children and such other and farther relief as may be equitable and just in the premises
John Edwards Jr. [signed]

If she committed adultery various times during their marriage, then who is to say that the children are even his?

Added to the above information is the fact that Alfred’s brother, Elias Edwards, changed his name when he was older – to Mike Roberts.  According to his descendants, he thought that his real father was a man named Perry Roberts.  They thought that he might be the father of Alfred also.

As far as I can tell, Ella didn’t marry this man.  She becomes a bit elusive to me after her divorce.  I found her later with the name Ella J. Kryselmeier, though I have yet to figure out whom she married.

So what would you do?

Would you continue to research the line of John Edwards as if he were Alfred’s father and just make a note of it that he might not be?

Would you try to find out who this Perry Roberts was?

I really wish that my grandmother were still alive so that she might be able to answer some of my questions.

Could this be something that DNA testing would help prove or disprove?  If I could find a descendant from John’s brother Wallace and compare it to my brother’s DNA?

I guess I need to read up some more on using DNA in genealogy research, because I am way behind in that department.

Here is what I have on her:

18 Feb 1819 She was born in Montgomery County, Missouri.  Source: History of Leavenworth County, Kansas by Jesse Hall and Leroy Hand. c. 1921

1833 Warren County is formed from Montgomery County

18 Jan 1842 She marries John C. Davidson in Warren Co., MO.  Source: Misouri Marriages to 1850

23 Dec 1842 A son, James F. Davidson is born in Missouri.

Abt. 1845 A son, Campbell Alexander Davidson is born in Missouri.

19 Mar 1848 A son, Hail I. Davidson is born in Missouri.

4 Sep 1850 Living with her husband and 3 sons in Carroll Co., MO.

25 Aug 1851 A son, Matthew David Davidson is born in Carroll, Co., Missouri.

Abt. 1853 A daughter, Martha Jane Davidson is born in Missouri.

Jul 1854 They move from Carroll Co., MO to Douglas Co., KS.

7 Oct 1855 A son, John C. Davidson is born in Douglas Co, KS.

16 Feb 1858 A son, Thomas Talbot Davidson is born in Douglas Co., KS.

4 Mar 1859 Her son James dies and is buried in Ulrich Cemetery, Douglas Co., KS.

30 Jul 1860 Living in Willow Springs Twp, Douglas Co., KS with her husband and children.

19 May 1865 Living in Alexandria Twp, Leavenworth Co., KS with her husband and children.

8 Apr 1866 Her son, Hail Davidson dies and is buried in Ulrich Cemetery.

11 Feb 1869 Her husband, John C. Davidson, dies and is buried in Ulrich Cemetery.

15 Jul 1870 Living in Stranger Twp, Leavenworth Co, KS with her children.

1 Mar 1875 Living in Stranger Twp, Leavenworth Co., KS with her son Campbell and his wife, and her other children.

10 Jun 1880 Living in Stranger Twp, Leavenworth Co. KS with her sons John and Thomas and a girl Esther Hopkins, age 17.

7 Sep 1888 She dies in Kansas and is buried in Ulrich Cemetery in Douglas County, KS.

As you can see, I have her pretty well documented from the time of her marriage on.

I’m trying to figure out who her parents might be.

I found a very helpful website, dedicated to the Talbot family.   The Descendants of Matthew Talbot, Gentleman.

Of special interest to me was the page titled “The Hale Talbot Story”  by Ann Talbot Brandon Womack and Farris W. Womack, dated Feb. 2002.

It documents the Talbot line down to a Hale Talbot who settled in Montgomery County, Missouri – where Sophia was born.

1 Hale Talbot b: 05 Dec 1754 in Bedford Co.,VA d: 31 Aug 1828 in Montogomery Co.,MO-L’Outre Island, MO-McKittrick
.. +Elizabeth”Betsey” Irvine b: 05 Jan 1760 in Bedford Co.,VA m: 18 Sep 1778 in Bedford Co., VA d: 01 Sep 1827 in Montogomery Co.,MO-L’Outre Island, MO-McKittrick

. 2 Jane Talbot b: Abt. 1779 in KY d: Aft. 1850 in Prob Warren Co.,MO
….. +James Talbot, MD b: Bet. 1771 – 1780 in Prob Bedford Co.,VA or Kentucky m: 29 Jun 1806 in Madison Co.,KY d: Aft. 1840 in Prob Warren Co.,MO

. 2 Nancy (Ann) Talbot b: Bet. 1784 – 1788 in Prob Madison Co.,KY d: Bef. Jun 1845 in Montgomery Co.,MO-Loutre Island
….. +Irvine Smith Pitman b: 09 Sep 1790 in Kentucky m: 1815 d: 22 May 1862 in Missouri

. 2 Christopher Talbot b: 09 Jun 1788 in Madison Co.,KY d: 22 Aug 1856 in Montogomery Co.,MO-L’Outre Island, MO-McKittrick
….. +Susan Parrish b: 25 Jan 1785 in Prob Kentucky m: 07 Oct 1811 in Madison Co.,KY–page 56 d: 30 Nov 1844 in Montogomery Co.,MO-L’Outre Island, MO-McKittrick

. 2 Thomas Talbot b: 07 Mar 1795 in Madison Co.,KY d: 20 Sep 1869 in Warren Co.,MO
….. +Henrietta LNU b: Bet. 1807 – 1808 in Virginia

. 2 [1] William Irvine Talbot b: 13 May 1795 in Prob Madison Co.,KY d: 14 Jun 1874 in Prob Warren Co.,MO
….. +Jane Lewis b: 1811 m: Bef. 1838 d: Bef. 1850
. *2nd Wife of [1] William Irvine Talbot:
….. +Catherine Jane Helsey b: 1804 in Virginia m: Abt. 1847 in Missouri d: Jun 1881 in Missouri

. 2 David I. Talbot b: 17 May 1798 in Madison Co.,KY d: 24 Nov 1852 in Montogomery Co.,MO-L’Outre Island, MO-McKittrick
….. +Susan M. Clark b: 26 Mar 1810 in Missouri/Kentucky m: Bef. 1830 in Prob Montgomery Co.,MO d: 11 Jan 1852 in Montogomery Co.,MO-L’Outre Island, MO-McKittrick

. 2 Elizabeth Talbot b: Bef. 1800 in Prob Madison Co.,KY d: 12 Sep 1844 in Montgomery Co.,MO
….. +Mathias McGirk b: 1783 in Greenbrier Co.,VA m: 03 Mar 1818 in St. Charles Co.,MO d: Bet. 03 – 14 Sep 1842 in Montgomery Co.,MO

. 2 Sophia F. Talbot b: 01 Mar 1803 in Prob Madison Co.,KY d: 30 Nov 1849 in Boone Co.,MO
….. +Fletcher Wright b: 08 Feb 1805 in Tennessee m: Bef. 1830 in Prob Montgomery/Boone Co.,MO d: 10 Sep 1843 in Boone Co.,MO

. 2 Mary Ann “Pauline” “Polly” Talbot b: 1806 in Prob Madison Co.,KY d: Aft. 1880 in Montgomery Co.,MO
….. +James Pitzer b: 1805 in Virginia m: Bef. 1830 in Prob St. Charles/Montgomery Co.,MO d: Bef. 1880 in Montgomery Co.,MO

Notice the similarity of the names?  Thomas.  Hale.  Matthew.  David.  James.  Sophia.

I know, I just know, that she belongs to this family.  This was not a heavily settled area during this time period.  It is not a coincidence. But where does she fit in?

She was born in 1819, so she appears to be too young to have been one of Hale’s children. Besides, there is already a daughter named Sophia.  My Sophia has to have been the daughter of one of Hale’s children.  But which one?

The above mentioned website has an impressive amount of research done on it.  This is a listing of the children of Hale Talbot in the 1830 census.  Sophia would have been about 11 years old in 1830.

It appears that the only family she could have fit in with was that of James and Jane Talbot.  Jane was actually the daughter of Hale.

Jane Talbot married her half first cousin, James Talbot, son of Isham Talbot and Elizabeth Davis,  in Madison County, Kentucky in 1806.

James and Jane Talbot lived a few houses away from Hale and Betsey and by 1810 they had two young children.  The son show on the Census appears to be Isham H. Talbot, no doubt the “H” stands for Hale and the daughter must be Martha J. Talbot.  Martha married John A. Hunter in 1833 in Missouri and gave birth to four children.  She died in 1841 when all of her children were very young.  The 1850 Census shows those children living with their grandmother, Jane.

Yet more names in common.  My Sophia named her first son James and her only daughter Martha Jane.

And in 1840, there is a female living in the household of Dr. James Talbott who is 20 yrs old.  He was living in Warren County (which is where she married John Davidson in 1842).

James Talbot appears to have died in between 1840 and 1850, because Jane Talbot is listed as the head of family and living in Warren County. A 26 yr old Matthew Talbot (probably her son) and her Hunter grandchildren (from her daughter Martha) are living with her.  (There is the Matthew name again!)

So, do I have any direct evidence yet?  No.

But I think that I’m on the right track.

I will be driving through Missouri in May.  I think that I will try to stop in Warren County and see what I can find.  I checked the Warren County Usgenweb site and the library has will and probate records from 1833 to 1889.  Maybe I can find James’ will?

I am going to attempt to research the known children of James and Jane Talbot – Isham H., Martha J., and Matthew to see if anything comes up that might mention Sophia also.

Any other suggestions?