J. Lemaster, School teacher, Greene Township, Jay County, Indiana, 1873

Portland Democrat, Portland, Indiana, November 13, 1873, page 2

GREEN TOWNSHIP ITEMS

by Hoosier

It has been sometime since I used the pencil to report from old Greene on account of bad health and pressure of business.

Times are still dull.  Staves are about the only thing that bring money, and there are cords after cords being hauled from this part of the county.  There will be no timber left in Greene township unless the destruction soon ceases.

Our farmers have been busy for last few days gathering corn.  The crop is not so good as was expected.  The prospect for wheat is promising.  Looks well, and a large quantity sowed.

Our new school house is progressing finely.  A few more fair days and it will be ready for school.  This will be a pleasure to people of that vicinity, as they have never had educational conveniences.  

The grave yard at school house No. 1 has been fenced, which speaks well for the people of that neighborhood. 

Our fall schools will closes, except one, this week, and the winter term will commence the 24th of this month, in charge of the following excellent teachers:

Dist. No. 1 - Miss Emma Adair, 1st term.
do    No. 2 - R.A. Bunch, 5th term.
do    No. 3. - Miss A.E. Rider, 2nd term.
do    No. 4 - W.P. Hiatt, 3rd term.
do    No. 5 - J. Lemaster, 2nd term.
do    No. 6 - T.C. Stephenson, 1st term.
do    No. 7 - D.M. Bunch, 5th term.
do    No. 8 - J.A. Smith,
do    No. 9 - A.J. Hays, 7th term, besides teaching two subscription schools.

Their labors heretofore have been crowned with success, and they commence their present term in full confidence of the citizens.  Hoping they may discharge their duties with credit to themselves and honor to their employer, I remain their well-wisher.

Good health and plenty of work; money scarce.

----
I believe that this J. Lemaster is Jacob Lemasters (1845-1922), son of Rev. Luman Walker and Nancy (Young) Lemasters.  Jacob was a school teacher and farmer.  I have not located him in the 1870 census, but in the 1880 census they were living in Noble Township.  Jacob was a younger brother to my 2nd-great grandfather, Luman Walker Lemasters Jr. (1842-1931).  Jacob was married to Sarah Ann Halfhill (1844-1920) and they moved to Ord, Valley County, Nebraska in the 1880s.

Lois Beryl Stewart (1889-1966), Jay County, Indiana

Working on filling in some gaps in my database by utilizing the "Indiana Marriages, 1811-1959" database at Familysearch.org to see what updates and corrections I could find.

Lois Beryl Stewart (1889-1966) was the daughter of Richard Perry Stewart and Rachel Ann Wehrly.  Her marriage on July 24, 1910 in Jay County, Indiana was found in the database.  Prior to this find, I had only the date, but no location for their marriage.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V6R5-KNH : accessed 23 Nov 2013), Earl O Burdg and Lois Beryl Stewart, .

Lois was my paternal second cousin twice removed.  Our common ancestors were Johannes Wehrly and Barbara Petry.  Lois died in 1966 in Jay County, Indiana.

Barbara Buck (1795-1878), Henry County, Indiana

Working on filling in some gaps in my database by utilizing the "Indiana Marriages, 1811-1959" database at Familysearch.org to see what updates and corrections I could find.

Barbara Buck's (1795-1878) marriage to James Groenendyke in Henry County, Indiana on June 3, 1826 was found in the database. Her name is spelled as Barbary in the record. Prior to this find, I had the date and place of the marriage, but had not located an actual record.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XXFR-YJL : accessed 23 Nov 2013), James Groenendyke and Barbary Buck, .

Barbara was the second wife of my maternal 5-great grandfather, James Groenendyke.  They had seven children and lived in Henry and Fayette Counties, Indiana.  Barbara died September 17, 1878.

Cummings Family Winston County, Alabama

While at the Genealogy Center in Ft. Wayne, I looked at the Family Maps of Winston County Alabama by Gregory Boyd for the Cummings family.  This book is one that I will need to add to my library, as I feel I will need to go back to it again and again.  Found some of Eileen’s relatives under a number of different spelling variations, including Cummins and Comeens.

Land purchases made in the pre-Civil War era help place these individuals next to each other, indicating close relationships.  For instance, Eileen’s known ancestor Wyatt Cummings, or Wiatt Cummins in the record, was in Section 27 next to Patrick Cummins as well as Riley Cummins.  Other families in the same section include Henson, Miller and Weaver.  Wyatt’s wife was Marguerite Henson.

Wyatt’s father, Spencer, had land in Section 22 and Lindsay Commens had land in Section 23, all in close proximity.  While I’ve seen some of this information before from the BLM GLO Records, it was nice to see them in a map format so that I could locate how closely the families lived to each other. 

Now I just need to work out the details and abstract the records for my files.

Thomas Jefferson Bucher (1858-1938), Jay County, Indiana

Working on filling in some gaps in my database by utilizing the "Indiana Marriages, 1811-1959" database at Familysearch.org to see what updates and corrections I could find.

Thomas Jefferson Bucher (1858-1938) was the son of John B. Bucher and Catherine Wehrly.  His marriage on February 27, 1881 in Jay County, Indiana to Louisa Bollinger was found in the database.  Prior to this find, I didn't have the date or place of their marriage.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V6RR-KNT : accessed 23 Nov 2013), Thomas Bucher and Louiza Bolinger, 1881.

Thomas was my paternal 1st cousin 3 times removed.  Our common ancestors were Johannes Wehrly and Barbara Petry.  Thomas and Louise had one son.  Thomas died October 31, 1938.

Catherine Wehrly (1836-1881), Jay County, Indiana

Working on filling in some gaps in my database by utilizing the "Indiana Marriages, 1811-1959" database at Familysearch.org to see what updates and corrections I could find.

Catherine Wehrly (1836-1881) was the daughter of Johannes "John S." Wehrly and Barbara Petry.  Her marriage on December 13, 1857 in Jay County, Indiana to John B. Bucher was found in the database.  Her surname was spelled Worley in the record.  Prior to this find, I did not have the exact location of their marriage.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V6RR-VRZ : accessed 23 Nov 2013), John Bucher and Catharine Worley, 1857.

Catherine was my paternal 2nd-great grandaunt.  Our common ancestors were Johannes Wehrly and Barbara Petry.  Catherine and John had one son.  She died June 21, 1881.

Exploratory Data Analysis: Nehersta Edith (Pierce) Roberts (1910-1979)

Nehersta Edith (Pierce) Roberts (1910-1979) was my maternal great-grandaunt.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about her.

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Nehersta was born January 4, 1910 in Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not yet have a copy of her birth certificate.  Will add this 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 for mention of Nehersta's birth.  The Alexandria-Monroe Public Library has newspapers from the early 1900s.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

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

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

               I am not aware of any baptismal record for Nehersta.  The Pierce family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Nehersta was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Nehersta married in 1949¹, to Howard Hyde Roberts,  although the location is not yet know.  The snippet of the news item I was able to see stated that her name was Nehersta Pierce Miller, of Columbus, Ohio.  This suggests that there might have been a previous marriage.  This notice was the subject of a previous post.  Later findings in the 1940 census indicate her first husband was named James A. Miller.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Will need to search out contemporary newspaper accounts in Columbus, Ohio and Alexandria, Indiana area to see if mention was made of Nehersta's marraige.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Once I'm able to determine the exact date of their marriage, I can also search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of any anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               The wedding mention with Nehersta having the surname of Miller indicates a possible first marriage.  Will need to search for records of a marriage and divorce in Madison County, Indiana or Franklin County, Ohio.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Nehersta died September 2, 1979 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California².  I do not yet have a copy of her death certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Nehersta's obituary appeared in the September 3, 1979 edition of the Anderson, Indiana Herald-Bulletin². 

               Will need to search other contemporary newspaper editions to see if additional obituaries can be obtained.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               According to her obituary, her funeral arrangements were handled by the Noffze Funeral home in Alexandria, Indiana.  Need to contact them to see if they have any additional records of the funeral.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Nehersta's tombstone in the Park View Cemetery in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana³, has been photographed.  A link to her memorial page at FindAGrave site is located here.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

                On April 3, 1940, Nehersta was enumerated in the James A. Miller household in Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio⁴, as Nehersta Miller, wife, age 30.  She had completed four years of college.  Her residence in 1935 was Marion County, Indiana.  She was born in Indiana.  No occupation was listed.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 21, 1930, Nehersta was enumerated in the B. Louise Whiteside household in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana⁵, as Nehersta Pierce, age 20, single, lodger.  She had attended school within the year and could read and write.  She was born in Indiana, as were both of her parents.  She could speak English.  No occupation was listed.  

               On April 24, 1930, Nehersta was enumerated in the William Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana⁶, as Edith Pierce, age 20, single, daughter.  She had attended school within the year and could read and write.  She was born in Indiana, her father born in Indiana and mother in Kentucky.  She could speak English.  No occupation was listed.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 23, 1920, Nehersta was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana⁷, as Nehersta Pierce, age 10, single, daughter.  She had attended school within the year.  She could read and write and spoke English.  She was born in Indiana, her father was born in Indiana and mother born in Kentucky. 

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

               On April 22, 1910, Nehersta was enumerated in the W.F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana⁸, as Nehersta Pierce, age 4 months, daughter.  She was born in Indiana, her father born in Indiana and mother born in Kentucky.

     2.2. State Census Records

          The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1877, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913, 1919 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 Pierce family farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Nehersta was female.

     3.2. Pension Records

          I am not aware of any military service by her father or husband that would have made Nehersta eligible for this benefit.

     3.3. Service Records

           Not applicable, as Nehersta was female.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Franklin County, Ohio and Los Angeles County, California to see what records might mention Nehersta and her family.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

          Madison County, Indiana published a plat map in 1880, 1891, 1893, 1901, 1910, 1915, 1921, 1923, 1931 and 1940 that might be relevant for my search on the Pierce family.

5. Supplemental Records

     Supplemental records available to search for Nehersta 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.

1. Pacific Oil World (Petroleum Publishers, 1949), Volume 42.
2. Anderson Indiana, Herald-Bulletin, September 3, 1979, Obituary of Nehersta Roberts.
3. FindAGrave Inc., FindAGrave.com (www.findagrave.com : accessed 19 November 2013).
4. 1940 U.S. census, Franklin County, Ohio, population schedule, Ward 17, Columbus, enumeration district 98-265, SD 12, sheet 2B, 1436 Kenmore Road, dwelling 22, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 19 November 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
5. 1930 U.S. census, Marion County, Indiana, population schedule, Ward 2, Indianapolis, enumeration district 49-311, SD 8, sheet 1A, 321 Fall Creek, dwelling 5, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 19 November 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
6. William Pierce household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 48-45, SD 5, sheet 13B, dwelling 321, family 327; National Archives micropublication T626.
7. William F. Pierce household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 119, SD 8, sheet 6A, dwelling 127, household 129; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 449, page 6B.
8. W.F. Pierce household, 1910 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 106, SD 8, sheet 5A, dwelling 86, family 86; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 364, page 131.

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.

Research Trip to Ft. Wayne

Last Monday I took a day off and completed a research trip to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Ft. Wayne.  I always enjoy researching in this library, and manage to find something new every time.

Though I didn't prepare fully for the trip, and ended up using a 'shotgun' approach to research, jumping from family to family, I did manage to find some gems, a synopsis of which follows:

• Cummings family : Found plat maps of Winston County, Alabama locating the land where Eileen's ancestors bought land just before the Civil War.  These maps show the location of neighbors as well, many of whom married into the family, which may lead to making more connections.
• Wardlaw/Wardlow family : Found estate and guardianship records indicies in Clermont County, Ohio with references to original records for me to contact the court and obtain copies.  Also located records of deeds and mortgages in early Clermont County, Ohio and early tax records
• Wright family : Found estate and guardianship records referenced in Clermont County, Ohio with references to original records for me to contact the court and obtain copies.  Also located records of deeds and mortgages in early Clermont County, Ohio and early tax records.
• Stuber family : Located cemetery records in Spencerville, Allen County, Ohio that mark the resting place of two Stuber infants.
• Orcutt/Pierpont family : Located a family genealogy on the Orcutt ancestry that included the family of Harry Pierpont, through his mother, Lena (Orcutt) Pierpont.
• Fessenden/Wright family : Located the family genealogy on the Fessendean family and the section detailing the Hannah (Fessenden) Wright family.
• Freeze Family : Located mention of the family in early newspaper records of Wabash County, Indiana.
• Jarrett Family : Located court records of Corinne's line in Koscuisko County, Indiana.
• Chew Family : Located mention of the family in early newspaper records of Jay County, Indiana.
• Wehrly Family : Located mention of the family in early newspaper records of Jay County, Indiana.
• LeMaster Family : Located mention of the family in early newspaper records of Jay County, Indiana.
• Haley Family : Located mention of the family in early newspaper records of Jay County, Indiana.

Will follow up with more detailed posts as I input this information into my database.  

Exploratory Data Analysis: Lillian Pierce (1902-1921)

Lillian Pierce (1902-1921) was my maternal great-grandaunt.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about her.

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Lillian was born September 12, 1902 in Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  The State of Indiana did not require state-wide registrations of births until 1907.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Lillian's birth was mentioned in the newspaper, it has been lost to history.  The Alexandria-Monroe Library has newspaper holdings from the early 1900s.  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 Pierce 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 Lillian.  The Pierce family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Lillian was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          There is no indication that Lillian was ever married.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Not applicable.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Not applicable.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               Not applicable.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Lillian died on August 11, 1921 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana¹.  The cause of death was tuberculosis.  I do not yet have a copy of her death certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Lillian's obituary appeared in the August 12, 1921 edition of the Alexandria Times-Tribune in Alexandria, Indiana¹.  Her obituary was the subject of a previous post.  According to the obituary, she died at her home from tuberculosis, which she had suffered from for nearly two years.

               Additional obituaries appeared in the August 12, 1921 edition of the Anderson Herald², the August 13, 1921 edition of the Alexandria Times-Tribune³ and the Anderson Daily Bulletin⁴, and the August 15, 1921 edition of the Alexandria Times-Tribune⁵.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               According to her obituary, the funeral home who handled the arrangements was not mentioned.  Will check with the local historical society to see if they have any records.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Lillian's tombstone in the Maplewood Cemetery in Anderson, Indiana has not been photographed.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 23, 1920, Lillian was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana⁶, as Lillian Pierce, age 17, daughter.  She did not attend school within the year.  She could read and write and spoke English.  She was working as a bookkeeper at an office.  She was born in Indiana, as were both of her parents.

          2.1.2. 1910 Federal Census

                     On April 23, 1910, Lillian was enumerated in the W.F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana⁷, as Lillian Pierce, age 8, daughter.  She had attended school within the year.  She was born in Indiana, as were both of her parents.

     2.2. State Census Records

          The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1877, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913, 1919 and 1931.  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 Pierce family farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Lillian was female.

     3.2. Pension Records

          I am not aware of any military service by her father that would make Lillian eligible for pension benefits.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable, as Lillian was female.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

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

     4.2. Plat map / county map

          Madison County published a plat map in 1880, 1891, 1893, 1901, 1910, 1915, 1921, 1923, 1931 and 1940 that might be relevant to my search for the Pierce family.

5. Supplemental Records

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

Sources :

1. Lillian Pierce obituary, Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, 12 August 1921, page 1.
2. Lillian Pierce obituary, Anderson Herald, Anderson, Indiana, 12 August 1921, page 1.
3. Lillian Pierce obituary, Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, 13 August 1921, page 1.
4. Lillian Pierce obituary, Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, 13 August 1921, page 1.
5. Lillian Pierce obituary, Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, 15 August 1921, page 1.
6. William F. Pierce household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 119, SD 8, sheet 6A, dwelling 127, household 129; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 449, page 6B.
7. W.F. Pierce household, 1910 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 106, SD 8, sheet 5A, dwelling 86, family 86; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 364, page 131.

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: Edward E. Pierce (1900-1900)

Edward E. Pierce (1900-1900) 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

          Edward was born in March 1900¹, probably in Madison County, Indiana, according to the 1900 census.  The State of Indiana did not require state-wide registrations of births until 1907.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Edward's birth was mentioned in a local newspaper, it has been lost to history.  The Alexandria-Monroe Public Library has newspaper holdings from the early 1900s.  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 Pierce 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 Edward.  The Pierce family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Edward was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

                Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Edward died December 23, 1900 in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not have a copy of his death certificate.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               If Edward's death had been recording in local newspapers, it has been lost to history.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               A search of Madison County, Indiana funeral home records needs to be done to see if I can locate a record of his burial.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               I do not yet know where Edward is buried.  Many of the Pierce family were buried in the Maplewood Cemetery in Anderson, Madison County, Indiana.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 15, 1900, Edward was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana¹, as Edward E. Pierce, son, aged 3 months.  He was born March 1900 in Indiana.  Both of his parents were born in Indiana.

     2.2. State Census Records

          The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1877, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913, 1919 and 1931.  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 Pierce family farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

           Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

            Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

5. Supplemental Records

      Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

Sources:

1. William F. Pierce household, 1900 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 90, SD 67, sheet 118, dwelling 220, family 235; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 386, page 28.

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: John Herman Pierce (1895-1959)

John Herman Pierce (1895-1959) 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

          Herman was born July 31, 1895 in Madison County, Indiana^8,9.  The State of Indiana did not require the state-wide registration of birth certificates until 1907.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Herman's birth was mentioned in the local newspaper, it has been lost to history.  The Alexandria-Monroe Public Library has newspaper holdings from the early 1900s. 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 Pierce 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.  The Pierce family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Herman was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

           Herman married on December 24, 1918 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana¹ to Charlotte Elva Hensley.  I have not yet obtained a copy of their marriage license.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          Herman married on November 3, 1923 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana² to Charlotte Ferguson.  I have not yet obtained a copy of their 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 Herman and Charlotte Ferguson's nuptials.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

                John and Charlotte's 25th wedding anniversary would have been November 3, 1948 and their 50th wedding anniversary would have been November 3, 1973.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if there was any mention of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that John and Charlotte were ever divorced, but a thorough search of the court records in Madison County, Indiana needs to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Herman died July 19, 1959 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not yet have a copy of his death certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Herman's obituary appeared in the July 21, 1959 edition of the Anderson Herald in Anderson, Indiana.  I have not sourced his obituary in my database and need to obtain a copy. Will need to search other local newspapers to see if his death was mentioned.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Once I have a copy of Herman's obituary, I can contact the funeral home mentioned to see if they have any additional records.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

                     Herman's tombstone in the I.O.O.F. cemetery in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana has not been photographed.  I need to obtain a photo and upload to the FindAGrave.com website.  Will 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 22, 1940, Herman was enumerated as head of household in Brown Township, Hancock County, Indiana³, as Herman Pierce, age 44, farmer, born in Indiana.  He had completed the 7th grade in education.  His residence in 1935 was rural Madison County, Indiana.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On May 6, 1930, Herman was enumerated as head of household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana⁴, as Herman Pierce, age 33, farmer, born in Indiana.  He rented his home and owned a radio.  He was aged 29 at his 1st marriage.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He was born in Indiana, as were both of his parents.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 23, 1920, Herman was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Frankton, Madison County, Indiana⁵, as J. Herman Pierce, son, age 24, farm laborer.  He was born in Indiana, as were both of his parents.  He was widowed.  He could read and write and spoke English.

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

               On April 22, 1910, Herman was enumerated in the W.F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana⁶, as Herman Pierce, son, age 14.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He had attended school within the year.  He was born in Indiana, as were both of his parents.

          2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 15, 1900, Herman was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana⁷, as John H. Pierce, son, age 4. He was born July 1895 in Indiana.  Both of his parents were born in Indiana.

     2.2. State Census Records

          The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1877, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913, 1919 and 1931.  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 Pierce family farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          On June 5, 1917, Herman registered with the Selective Service during World War I in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana⁸.  He was born July 31, 1895 in Madison County, Indiana.  At the time of the draft, he was living at R.F.D. 19 in Alexandria and was engaged in farming on his father's farm.  He was single.  He was described as medium height, stout build with grey eyes and light brown hair.  

        On April 27, 1942, Herman registered with the Selective Service during World War II in Madison County, Indiana⁹.  He was living at R.R. 2 Anderson in Lafayette Township.  He was 46 years old, self employed.  His nearest relative was his wife, Charlotte.  He stood 5'8", weighed 170 lbs. with blue eyes, brown hair and a ruddy complexion.  He had a scar on his left index finger.

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable.

     3.3. Service Records

          I have not located any records indicating military service for Herman.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

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

     4.2. Plat map / county map

          Madison County published a plat map in 1880, 1891, 1893, 1901, 1910, 1915, 1921, 1923, 1931 and 1940 that might be relevant to my search for the Pierce family.

5. Supplemental Records

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

     On December 11, 1954, Herman was a pallbearer for the Nellie Fox funeral in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana¹⁰.

Sources:

1. "Pierce wedding," Alexandria Times-Tribune, 24 December 1918.
2. Email from 13 August 2001.
3. 1940 U.S. census, Hancock County, Indiana, population schedule, Brown Township, enumeration district 30-5, SD 11, sheet 88, dwelling 186, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 12 November 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
4. Herman Pierce household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 48-39, SD 5, sheet 10B, dwelling 239, family 239; National Archives micropublication T626, roll 605, page 149.
5. William F. Pierce household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 119, SD 8, sheet 6A, dwelling 127, household 129; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 449, page 6B.
6. W.F. Pierce household, 1910 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 106, SD 8, sheet 5A, dwelling 86, family 86; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 364, page 131.
7. William F. Pierce household, 1900 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 90, SD 67, sheet 11B, dwelling 220, family 235; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 386, page 28.
8. "U.S. World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," digital image, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 13 November 2013); citing World War I Selective Service System Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918 : Indiana.
9. "U.S. World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942," digital image, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 13 November 2013); citing Selective Service Registration Cards, World War II : Fourth Registration : Indiana.
10. Fox Rites article, Anderson Herald, Anderson, Indiana, USA, December 14, 1954, page 6.

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.

Nora May Stolz (1877-1971), Jay County, Indiana

Working on filling in some gaps in my database by utilizing the "Indiana Marriages, 1811-1959" database at Familysearch.org to see what updates and corrections I could find.

Nora May Stolz (1877-1971) was the daughter of George W. and Catherine E. (Metzner) Stolz.  Her marriage on May 16, 1903 in Jay County, Indiana to George C.D. Bergman was found in the database.  Prior to this find, I did not have the exact location of their marriage.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V6RG-K5J : accessed 17 Oct 2013), George C D Bergman and Nora Stolz, 1903.

Nora was my paternal first cousin three times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Metzner and Catherine Young.  Nora and George had two children.  She died June 19, 1971.

Exploratory Data Analysis: Wesley F. Metzner (1872-1953)

Wesley F. Metzner (1872-1953)

Wesley F. Metzner (1872-1953) 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

          Wesley was born March 3, 1872 in Jay County, Indiana.  The State of Indiana did not require the state-wide registration of births until 1907.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Wesley's birth was mention in a local newspaper, it has been lost to history.  The Jay County, Indiana public library has local newspapers from the 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 Metzner family.  Will continue to reach out to extended family in hope's that one does exist.

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

               I am not aware of any baptismal record for Wesley.  The Metzners were members of the Evangelical Association.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Wesley was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Wesley married on October 20, 1898 in Jay County, Indiana¹ to Mary Nora Axe.  A copy of their marriage license was the subject of a previous post.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

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

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Wesley and Nora's 25th wedding anniversary would have been October 20, 1923.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if there was any mention of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that Wesley was ever divorced, but a full search of Jay County, Indiana court records needs to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Wesley died November 5, 1953 in Portland, Jay County, Indiana.  I do not have a copy of his death certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspapers to see if I can locate an obituary for Wesley.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Once I have a copy of Wesley's obituary, I can contact the funeral home mentioned and see if they have any additional records.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Wesley's tombstone in the Mt. Zion Cemetery, Jay County, Indiana has been photographed².

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

               On April 16, 1940, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana³, as Wesley Metzner, age 68, Farmer.  He owned his home and it was valued at $1000.  He was married and had completed the 8th grade in education.  His residence in 1935 was the same location.  He was born in Indiana.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 9, 1930, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana⁴, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 58, Farmer.  He was born in Indiana, and both parents born in Ohio.  He owned his home and it was valued at $5500. He was married at age 26. He could read and write and spoke English.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 29, 1920, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana⁵, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 46, Farmer.  He owned his home and it was mortgaged.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He was born in Indiana and both parents were born in Ohio.

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

               On April 19, 1910, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana⁶, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 38, Farmer.  He had been married for 12 years.  He was born in Indiana and both parents were born in Ohio.  He could read and write and spoke English.

          2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 23, 1900, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana⁷, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 28, Farmer.  He was born November 1872 in Indiana and both parents were born in Ohio.  He had been married for 1 year.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He owned his home free of mortgage.

          2.1.6. 1880 Federal Census

               On June 23, 1880, Wesley was enumerated in the John A. Metzner household in Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana⁸, as Wesley F. Metzner, son, age 8, born in Indiana.  Both parents were born in Ohio.  He had attended school within the year.

     2.2. State Census Records

          The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1877, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913, 1919 and 1931.  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 Metzner farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Wesley was too old to have registered for the draft during World War I.

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable.

     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 Wesley.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

          Jay County published a plat map in 1874, 1881, 1887, 1901, 1910 and 1920 that might be relevant in my search for Wesley.  I have access to the 1887 and 1901 maps, and need to see what information they contain.

5. Supplemental Records

     Supplemental records to research for Wesley 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. Jay County, Indiana Marriage Records, Book C-H, page 515.
2. FindAGrave Inc., FindAGrave.com (www.findagrave.com : accessed 6 November 2013).
3. 1940 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 38-9, SD 5, sheet 4B, dwelling 78; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
4. Wesley F. Metzner household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 38-9, SD 5, sheet 4A, dwelling 84, family 84; National Archives micropublication T626.
5. 1920 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 74, SD 8, sheet 4A, dwelling 91, family 94; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
6. 1910 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 69, SD 8, sheet 2A, dwelling 29, family 29; digital archives, Archives.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
7. 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 63, SD 8, sheet 11B, dwelling 242, family 244; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
8. John A. Metzner household, 1880 U.S. census, population schedule, Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 208, SD 6, page 5, dwelling 5; 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.