Postcard : Riding the Surf at Hollywood Beach, Florida

Hollywood, Florida

January 27, 1941

Mrs. Virgil Wright

Alexandria, Ind.

# 2

This is Mon. Jan. 27th we are here in a trailer camp at Hollywood Fla.  This card shows the picture of a lovely hotel on the ocean.  We are near or behind it to the beach.  We took the car and went to Miami and Coral Gables yesterday.  If you think pictures flatter you are wrong.  Wonder if your dad ever came here.  It was lovely yesterday we want to spend to-day in the sunshine.  We are near an airport you know they guard the ocean bank here.  Large boats and a dog race track. Ha!  Takes until about nine for the sun to get out some days.  The water and sun in warm.   Intend to put on Toots bathing suit to-day.  Hope every one is as usual.  Seems bad to think of the miles between.  Think we will be home at least by Sun. or soon. (We are staying another day here)  Love. Eva.

---

This postcard was address to my maternal great-grandmother, Edna Muriel (Pierce) Wright (1897-1968).  I do not know who the sender was.  Interestingly, she mentions my 2g-grandfather going to Florida.

Memorial Day

Arlington National Cemetery

Exploratory Data Analysis: John William Wehrly (1870-1954)

John William Wehrly (1870-1954) 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

          John was born May 17, 1870 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 John'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 John, nor the church affiliation of the Wehrly's.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that John was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          John married Esther L. White on August 15, 1891 in Jay County, Indiana².  I do not yet have a copy of their marriage license.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items to obtain on my next trip to Jay County.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of John and Esther's nuptials.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               John and Esther's 25th wedding anniversary would have been August 15, 1915 and their 50th anniversary would have been August 15, 1941.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if any mention was made of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that John and Esther were ever divorced, but a search of Jay County, Indiana court records needs to be done.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          John died January 24, 1954¹.  I do not know exactly where he died. Will need to add obtaining this information to my "to-do" list.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Will need to search local newspapers in Jay County, Indiana to see if John's death was mentioned.  Will add this to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Once I've obtained a copy of his 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

               John and Esther's tombstone in the Salamonia Cemetery in Jay County, Indiana³ has been photographed and was the subject of a previous post.  The tombstone reads "John W. Wehrly 1870-1954" and "Esther L. Wehrly 1869-1958".

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

               On April 22, 1940, John was enumerated as head of household in Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana⁴, as John William Wehrly, age 69, born in Indiana, Farmer.  He owned his own home, valued at $2500 and lived on a farm.  His residence in 1935 was the same place.  He had completed 8th grade.  Living in the household was his wife, Esther L., age 70, born Indiana, and son, Robert C., age 31, born in Indiana.  His address was 119 Fairview Road.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 4, 1930, John was enumerated as head of household in the 1st Ward of Portland, Jay County, Indiana⁵, as John W. Wehrly, age 59, born in Indiana.  His occupation was listed as Jeweler.  He was aged 21 at his first marriage, his father listed as born in Pennsylvania and mother in Indiana.  His home was valued at $6500 and he owned a radio.  Living in the household was his wife, Esther L., age 60, born Indiana, and son Robert C., age 21, born Indiana.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On February 5, 1920, John was enumerated as head of household in the 1st Ward of Portland, Jay County, Indiana⁶, as John W. Wehrly, age 50, born in Indiana.  His occupation was listed as Jeweler.  He owned his home free of mortgage.  He could read and write and speak English.  His father was born in Ohio and his mother born in Ohio.  Living in the household was his wife, Esther L., age 50, born Indiana, and son Robert C., age 11, born Indiana.

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

               On April 1, 1910, John was enumerated as head of household in the 1st Ward of Portland, Jay County, Indiana⁷, as John W. Wehrly, age 39, born in Indiana.  His occupation was listed as Jeweler.  He was age 19 at his marriage.  His father was born in Ohio and his mother born in Ohio.  Living in the household was his wife, Esther L., age 40, born Indiana, son Robert C., age 8 months born in Indiana, and mother-in-law, Barbara White, age 79, born Indiana.

          2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 11, 1900, John was enumerated as head of household in the 1st Ward of Portland, Jay County, Indiana⁸, as John W. Wehrly, age 30, born May 1870 in Indiana.  His occupation was listed as Jeweler.  His father was born in Ohio and his mother in Indiana.  He could read and write and speak English.  Living in the household was his wife, Esther L., age 31, born May 1869 in Indiana, and his mother-in-law, Barbara White, age 69, born September 1830 in Ohio.

          2.1.6. 1880 Federal Census

               On June 3, 1880, John was enumerated in the William Wherhly household in Salamonia, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁹, as John Wherhly, age 10, born in Indiana.  His father's birthplace was blank, and his mother was born in Michigan.  He had attended school within the year.

     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 Wehrly farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          John 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 have made John eligible to receive pension benefits.  His father did serve in the Civil War, but I don't believe John ever received any minor's benefits.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

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

     4.2. Plat map / county map

          Plat maps and county maps for Jay 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 John 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 1897, John was listed as a jeweler in the city and business directory of the Portland, Indiana, at the corner of Wayne and Water¹⁰.

     In 1907, John was listed as a jeweler in the city directory of Portland, Indiana at 201 N. Meridian¹¹.

Sources:

1. Wehrly, Blaine & Gladys, "Wehrly & Smith Family History." Report to Wehrly Reunion, New Castle, Indiana, 16 August 1970.  Photocopy held by author.
2. Phyllis (Strock) Franklin, Salamonia Cemeteries : Salamonia, Madison Twp., Jay County, Indiana (Portland, Indiana, USA: The Jay County Genealogical Society, 2000), page 1.
3. Salamonia Cemetery (Jay County, Indiana), John W. and Esther L. Wehrly marker, photographed by Travis LeMaster, 26 March 2009.
4. 1940 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, enumeration district 38-23, SD 5, sheet 6B, 119 Fairview Road, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 21 May 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
5. John W. Wehrly household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Portland, Jay County, Indiana, ED 38-18, SD 5, sheet 5B, dwelling 73, family 78; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 595, page 154.
6. John W. Wehrly household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Portland, Jay County, Indiana, ED 17, SD 84, sheet 2A, dwelling 76, family 76; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 440, page 196.
7. 1910 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, 1st Ward, Portland, enumeration district 80, SD 8, sheet 5A, 411 E. Walnut, dwelling 118, family 119, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 21 May 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
8. 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, 1st Ward, Portland, enumeration district 74, SD 8, sheet 12A, dwelling 295, family 295; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 21 May 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
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. A City and Business Directory of the City of Portland, Indiana (1897) (Defiance, Ohio, USA: The Hubbard Company, 1982 (reprint)), page 87.
11. Complete Directory of Jay County (Portland, Indiana, USA: M. & M. Directory Co., 1907), page 31.

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: Minerva Prudence (Wehrly) Jackson (1867-1948)

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

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

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)

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)

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

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

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.