Sunday, March 15, 2009

Matthias Miller family - Vanderburgh County, Indiana

Corinne's maternal great-great grandfather, Matthias MILLER and family appear in the 1900-1920 census of Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana in various households and circumstances. Matthias was the son William and Elizabeth (SCHAFER) MILLER.

In the 1900 census, Matthew, as he is listed, was a 38 year old moulder in a stove factory, born October 1861 in Indiana, married for 6 years. Both of his parents were listed as being born in Indiana. He could read and write and spoke English. His wife, Elizabeth, was aged 27, born March 1873 in Indiana, with both parents born in Indiana. She spoke English but could not read or write. She is also listed as the mother of 4 children, with only 1 living. Children living in the household were : Wm. M. aged 7, Carl, aged 5 and Fred, aged 2. Since they were listed as being married for 6 years, Elizabeth should be the mother of at least Carl & Fred, yet the record shows she was the mother of one living child.

In the 1910 census, Matthis, as he is listed, was a 49 year old moulder in a stove foundry, on his second marriage, and married for 16 years. He was born in Indiana, and his father was born in Germany and his mother in Indiana. He was renting his home, and was listed as being out of work for 30 weeks in 1909. His wife, Lizzie, aged 37 years, was on her first marriage, mother of 6 children, with 6 living. She was born in Indiana, as were both of her parents. She could not read or write. Children living in the household were: Willie, aged 16, working in a furniture factory, Carl, aged 14, working in a furniture factory, Fredie, aged 12, Hellen, aged 7 5/12, Eva, aged 5 7/12, and Auther, aged 3 3/12.

In the 1920 census, Matthias was living as a roomer in the household of Oda M. Veach. His aged was listed as 58 years old. He was married, working as a helper in a furniture factory. He was born in Indiana, with both father and mother born in Bavaria.

In the 1920 census, Lizzie was listed as the head of household in a different ward. She was renting her home. She was listed as a 46 year old female with no occupation, born in Indiana, as well as both of her parents. Living with her were children: Eva, aged 15, Arthur, aged 12, Sadie, aged 8, Lorenz, aged 5, and Fred, aged 21 and Fred's wife Bessie, aged 24.

Apparently, Matthias and Lizzie were separated at this time. Other research has located records in the Vanderburgh County were Lilie Miller filed for divorce in 1926 and later in 1931, both cases were dismissed.

Matthias MILLER b. October 1861, Indiana, d. September 15, 1936 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. January 20, 1894 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana to Elizabeth SCHAEFFER. Elizabeth b. March 1873 Indiana, d. July 28, 1937 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana. Known children :
i. Lily Schaefer Miller b. November 26, 1891 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. before 1900 census
ii. William Mathias Miller b. October 1, 1893 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. October 28, 1956 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. Thelma McNeal.
iii. Carl Miller b. March 19, 1896 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. September 2, 1927 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana
iv. Fred Miller b. March 1898 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. September 7, 1961 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. Bessie ________
v. Mary Miller b. August 23, 1902 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. before 1910 census
vi. Helen Louis Miller b. ca. 1903 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. March 30, 2003 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. William Herbert Gregg.
vii. Eva Louise Miller b. August 23, 1904 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. August 5, 1998 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. S.E. Dever
viii. Arthur Miller b. January 12, 1907 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. May 20, 1964 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. Hallie Marie Chivlare
ix. Sadie Kathryn Miller b. April 20, 1911 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. November 29, 2005 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. ________ Hoover
x. Lawrence Sylvester Miller b. June 6, 1914 Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. April 2, 1991 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Adding DNA to your genealogical research?

I'm currently taking a marketing class while working towards my MBA, and our assignment is to write a marketing case plan study about a company of our choice. Recently, I've been fascinated with the expansion of DNA research in genealogy, and have been researching the differences between the services offered by both FamilyTreeDNA and Ancestry.com.

I'll admit that I've been skeptical in the past to the claims of some who've offered these services. The science was above my paygrade, and the "it's too good to be true" factor seemed high. The paper trail genealogy was the way to go for me, even though I've been guilty of not gathering as much documentation as possible.

There are two types of DNA tests available, the Y-chromosome (Y-DNA) and the mitochondrial (mtDNA). The Y-DNA traces the paternal line, the mtDNA traces the maternal line.

My paternal line goes back to a Jacob Lemasters (1770-1852) who first appears in Mason Co., VA (now WV) in 1806. As of yet, no paper documentation has been able to connect him as a descendant of Abraham Lemaster (c1636-1722), the emigrant to Maryland who is the claimed ancestor of approximately 90% of all Lemaster, Lemasters, Lamaster, etc. in the United States. A Y-DNA test would enable me to determine if I am related to other Lemasters who have documented their connections to Abraham.

My maternal great-grandmother was illegitimate, and the likelihood of discovering her true parentage through traditional documented genealogy is low. I wonder if it is her father's heritage that has left me, my mother and grandmother with the dark eyes and complexion. Was her heritage Italian? Who knows? A mitochondrial DNA test might give me some clues as to my ethnic origins. I would imagine that the majority would be European, but who knows what 'surprises' might lie in my DNA.

The tests are not cheap, but they are definitely getting cheaper. Recently, Ancestry has lowered its prices on the tests, and I'm tempted to jump into the DNA research waters.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Claud Francis Miguet obituary

Source: Oelwein Register, Oelwein, Iowa, September 1, 1920, page 4

Frank Miguet

Our departed brother Claude Francis Miguet was born in Lesoul and State of Houtsone, France, April 2, 1831 and departed this life in Hazelton, Buchanan Co., Iowa, August 16, 1920, being 89 years, 4 months and 14 days. In the year of 1847 with his parents he came to the United States and settled in Dubuque, Iowa in November of that year (56 days in sailing). In the year 1852 he made the overland trip to the west coast from Dubuque, Ia., to Sacramento, Calif., driving two yoke of oxen and walking the entire distance of this trip, which can now be made in less than four days, at that time took six months. In 1856 he returned to Dubuque and later settled in Superior township which is now Hazelton township, Buchanan Co. Jan. 2, 1857, he was married to Eliza Netcott and to this union but one child, Henry, of Hazelton, was born. His wife preceded him to the Great Beyond April 8, 1891, since which time he has made his home with his son in this city. To cherish and revere his memory remain his youngest brother N.M. and son Henry, two grandchildren Frank and Myrea Nolan and one great grandchild Bobbie. In the year of 1888 he united with the Presbyterian church of Hazelton. Uncle Frank, as he was familiarly called, was every inch a man among men, a thorough citizen, loved and revered by a host of friends. He was a noble worthy representative of the liberal large hearted class of men that constitute the great body of laymen of the churches of our land. The Lord and Master so appealed to him that he ever found comfort in his service. The Bible meant untold things to him and prayer graced his lips and lifted his heart to God up to the last. He was a Christian in the full sense of the word. Relying upon Him in whom he believed, he fell asleep with full confidence that all was well with him. Honest, capable, unassuring [sic], genial, pleasant in his intercourse with his fellowmen, devoted to his family and friends, he is embalmed in the love and respect of all. Such men never die as far as this world is concerned. His career is closed but his memory will be warmly cherished. May the bereaved ones who so tenderly cared for him think of him as a glorified spirit, happy in the blessings promised to the pure in heart.

Monday, March 09, 2009

Henry Miguet family - Buchanan County, Iowa

Corinne's maternal 3rd great grandfather, Henry MIGUET, appears in the 1920 census of Hazelton Township, Buchanan County, Iowa. Henry was the son of Francis and Eliza (Netcott) MIGUET.

Henry was listed as age 60, born in Iowa, and owned his home free of mortgage. His father was born in France and his mother was born in England. No occupation was listed, though he probably was retired. His wife, Kate, was aged 54, born in Indiana, with her father born in Virginia and her mother born in Ohio. Both of them could read and write.

Also living in the household were daughter, Myra, and son-in-law, Fred E. Nolan. Myra was a 25 year old, born in Iowa, and her husband, was a 39 year old bank cashier, born in Illinois. Fred's age was a bit hard to read, he may have been only 29 years old.

Henry MIGUET b. November 27, 1858 Buchanan County, Iowa, d. January 11, 1944, m. 23 December 1883 Buchanan County, Iowa to Katherine JARRETT, daughter of Judson and Jane (________) JARRETT. Katherine was b. September 1865 Iowa and d. August 4, 1952. Their children:
i. Frank Field Miguet b. November 1885 Iowa, d. January 28, 1954 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. Amelia Matilda Sauer.
ii. Ethel Myrea Miguet b. May 1894 Iowa, d. 1962, m. Fred E. Nolan, m(2) ______ Steninger.

Sunday, March 08, 2009

Frank Field Miguet family - Buchanan County, Iowa

Corinne's maternal great-great grandfather, Frank Field MIGUET, appears in the 1920 census of Hazelton Township, Buchanan County, Iowa. Frank was the son of Henry and Katherine (Jarrett) MIGUET.

Frank was listed as 34 year old salesman, born in Iowa, who could read and write. Both of Frank's parents were listed as being born in Iowa. His wife, Amelia, was listed as a 29 year old native of Indiana, whose parents were both born in Indiana. Their son, Robert, was born in Indiana, and was only 1 year and six months old.

Frank Field MIGUET b. November 1885 Iowa, d. January 28, 1954 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, m. Amelia Matilda SAUER, daughter of Edward J. and Amelia M. (Ritt) SAUER. Amelia was born August 6, 1890 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, d. September 25, 1974 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana. Their children:
i. Robert Francis Miguet m. Helen Meyer
ii. Miriam Ruth Miguet m. Edward Ferdinand Wildt

Saturday, March 07, 2009

Francis Miguet family - Buchanan County, Iowa

Corinne's maternal fourth great-grandfather, Francis MIGUET appears in the 1860 and 1870 census of Buchanan County, Iowa. I am still trying to sort out the other Miguet families in that area to determine how they are all related.

In the 1860 census, Francis was listed in Superior Township as a 27 year old Farmer with a personal estate valued at $285 who was born in France. His wife, Eliza, was 26 years old and was born in England. Their son, Henry, aged 2, was born in Iowa. Also listed in the household was a 21 year old Daniel Ashbrook, born in New York, whose occupation was farm laborer.

Living next door to Francis was the John P. and Frances Miguet household, these could be parents or close relatives. Both of them were listed as being born in France.

In the 1870 census, Francis was listed in Hazelton Township as a 39 year old Farmer with real estate valued at $3200 and a personal estate valued at $1372. Again he was listed as being born in France, but was listed as a U.S. citizen. His wife, Eliza, was 37 years old, born in England, and keeping house. Their son Henry was age 12, born in Iowa, and had attended school within the year.

Claud Francis MIGUET, b. ca. 1833 France, d. 1920 Buchanan County, Iowa, m. Eliza ________. Eliza b. ca. 1833 England, d. 1891 Buchanan County, Iowa. Both are buried in the Hazelton Cemetery, Buchanan County, Iowa. Known children :
i. Henry Miguet, b. November 1858 Buchanan County, Iowa, d. after 1920 census, m. December 23, 1883 Buchanan County, Iowa to Katherine JARRETT.

Thursday, March 05, 2009

Arthur Augustus Metzner family - Jay County, Indiana

Arthur A. Metzner and family appear in the 1910 census of Bearcreek Township, Jay County, Indiana. Arthur was the son of Louis Napoleon and Henrietta (Weaver) Metzner, and my paternal first cousin three times removed.

In the 1910 census, Arthur was listed as a 31 year old farmer, who could read and write and whose home was mortgaged. He was born in Indiana, and his father was born in Ohio and mother in Indiana as well. Arthur was listed as being married for 9 years. His wife, Laura D. Reid, was listed as Lura D., a 28 year old mother of 3 children with all 3 living. She was born in Kansas, with both parents listed as being born in Indiana.

Three children were listed with the family : Vada E., aged 8; Hazel L., aged 3; and Fern D. age 1 year and 7 months. All of these children were born in Indiana. The names conflict with some other records I had previously found in the WPA indices for Jay County birth records. In those records, I had found a female born August 20, 1901; a female born June 7, 1906 and a Clara L. Metzner born September 12, 1908. While the first two could match Vada and Hazel; how Clara could be mistaken for Fern I do not know. More research in Jay County will have to be done to straighten that out.

Also living with the family in the 1910 was Arthur's mother, Henrietta, although she was listed as Harriet Metzner, aged 57, a widow born in Indiana; with father born in Pennsylvania and mother born in Ohio. Henrietta's husband, Louis, had died shortly after the 1900 census on July 3, 1900 in Bearcreek Township, Jay County, Indiana.

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Adney - Rinehart connections

Retracing some steps by cleaning out my inbox led me back to an email from Mary Alice Adney regarding the Adney and Rinehart families from 2005. In the email, she mentioned that Eileen's ancestors, Mary Adney and Jacob Rinehart were married and that both were buried in the Chicago graveyard of Henry County, Indiana. Mary was the daughter of Daniel Adney and Anna (Coger) Adney and Jacob was the son of Peter and Margaret (---) Rinehart.

Daniel Adney was buried in the Woods Chapel Cemetery near Liberty, Indiana in Henry County. Searching the FindAGrave website, I located his memorial here. Jacob and Mary (Adney) Rinehart also have their own memorials here and here.

The FindAGrave memorials stated that Jacob and Mary were married on January 29, 1821 in Preble County, Ohio, and that three of Jacob's brothers, Daniel, Peter and David married Adney sisters : Elizabeth, Sarah and Rebecca. This would indicate a strong relationship between these two families. The location of their families in Preble County at the same timeframe as my Wehrly ancestors makes me curious if they crossed paths.

Daniel Adney's parents were Thomas Adney and Elizabeth Dunn. Thomas came from England, according to Mary's email, but the exact date is not known. Mary mentioned that she wrote a book on the Adney's, and searching the catalog of the Allen County library I found the title : Adney Family Story, published in 1986. I will have to mark this on my to-do list for research on my next return trip to the library.

I've contacted the contributors of the FindAGrave pages for more information as well. One lists Peter Rinehart's wife Margaret's maiden name as Minga, information that I didn't have, giving me another branch to research.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

John W. Jones family - Madison County, Indiana

Today I sourced the John W. JONES family in the 1910 census of Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana. John was married to my maternal 2nd-great grandaunt, Margaret PIERCE daughter of Edmund G. and Catherine (GROENENDYKE) PIERCE.

John was listed as a 42 year old farmer who could read and write and owned his home free of mortgage. His marriage to Margaret was his second marriage, and they had been married for 7 years. John was listed as being born in Indiana, but the birthplace of his parents was simply given as 'United States'.

Margaret was listed as a 37 year old born in Indiana, with both parents born in Indiana. She was able to read and write, but had no occupation listed. This was her first marriage, and she was the mother of one child who was living.

Also living in the household were : Freda P. Jones, daughter, aged 14 years, born in Indiana and attending school; Layman S. Jones, son, aged 6 years, born in Indiana.

John W. JONES b. ca. 1868 Indiana, d. after 1920 census, m.(1) Huldah E. RETHERFORD March 23, 1894 Madison County, Indiana, m.(2) Margaret E. PIERCE March 1, 1903 Madison County, Indiana. Huldah was born ca. 1872 in Indiana and died December 11, 1901 Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana. Margaret was born April 1873 Madison County, Indiana and died June 11, 1923 Madison County, Indiana.
Children of John W. and Hulda E. (RETHERFORD) JONES :
i. Freda P. Jones b. 1896 Madison County, Indiana, d. after 1910 census
Children of John W. and Margaret E. (PIERCE) JONES :
ii. Layman S. Jones b. ca 1904 Madison County, Indiana
ii. Herman Jones
iii. Neal W. Jones b. August 14, 1914 Madison County, Indiana

Sunday, February 01, 2009

Obituary: Hazel (O'Bryant) Wright (1888-1916)

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, Saturday, April 15, 1916, page 1.

Mrs. Jesse Wright Dies During Night

Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bradford O'Bryant Passes Away at Home in Anderson
Relatives and friends of Mrs. Jesse Wright, formerly Miss Hazel O'Bryant, who was a popular and well known young lady of Alexandria, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bradford O'Bryant, residing on West Jefferson street, were shocked to learn last evening of her death at the home, 337 Madison Avenue, Anderson. Death came at 10:15 o'clock following a late sickness that dated back to Monday.

Mrs. Wright recovered from an illness a few weeks ago and came to Alexandria with her husband for a visit to relatives and to attend an entertainment of the Wabash Glee Club at the M.E. church. Shortly after returning to her home at Anderson she was taken ill again.

In 1907 Mrs. Wright graduated from the local high school. For sometime she was employed with the R.L. Leeson department store. She was married to Jesse Wright a mail clerk in the government service and they took up their home at Anderson. Mr.[sic] Wright was 28 years old. She was a member of the Tri-Kappa sorority in this city.

A father and mother, the husband and one brother, George O'Bryant, survive.

The funeral service will be held at the home in Anderson Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock in charge of the Rev. George Winfrey and burial will follow in the I.O.O.F. cemetery south of the city.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

A.M. Vinson Funeral

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, Thursday, October 27, 1921, page 1.

Vinson Funeral at the Home at 2:30 Tomorrow

The friends of the late A.M. (Ab) Vinson are hereby informed that the funeral services will be held at the home, 702 S. Harrison street, Friday (tomorrow) afternoon at 2:30 o'clock. Rev. Herbert Boase, pastor of the First M.E. Church, will conduct the services assisted by Rev. George W. Winfrey.

The funeral will be under the auspices of the various orders of which Mr. Vinson was a member, namely, the I.O.O.F. and the Red Men. City officials and members of the above named orders are expected to attended in a body.

Interment will be at the I.O.O.F. cemetery.

Friday, January 30, 2009

Obituary: Albert M. Vinson (1858-1921)

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, October 26, 1921, page 1.

Sudden Death Takes Ab Vinson at Early Hour

Was on Duty as Patrolman Yesterday and Last Night; Funeral Friday

A.M. Vinson, age 63 years, 2 months and 26 days, passed away at his home, 702 South Harrison street, at 12:30 this morning. His death was very sudden and came within a very few minutes after he had entered his home, having left his duties as patrolman at midnight. It was only three months ago that he was appointed as one of the city's police officers, and during that time he served faithfully and well, although handicapped by a siege of illness that lasted some time and from which he had but recently recovered.

Born in This County.

A.M., "Ab" as he was more generally known, Vinson, was born in Madison county, July 3, 1858. He was the son of the late James and Elizabeth Vinson. He lived on his farm, 3 miles north of Alexandria until about 18 years ago, when he moved to this city. He became engaged in the implement business and for several years was in partnership with Roe Jones in the building now occupied by the Alexandria Motor Sales Co. He was also deputy sheriff of Madison county during the four years incumbency of the sheriff's office by Jack Mountain.

Although weak from the effects of a three weeks' illness, Mr. Vinson insisted upon discharging his duties as patrolman. He was on duty last night as usual until 12:15 a.m., leaving for his home after his shift had expired. He went to his room, and shortly after entering Mrs. Vinson, hearing an unusual sound which had awakened her, went into the room where Mr. Vinson sat and found him lifeless. The angle of death had swooned down on the husband without a word of warning.

A Good Citizen

Deceased was a splendid man, a good citizen and one that was in every way worthy of the respect, confidence and esteem of his fellowmen. He took his responsibilities as patrolman seriously, and accepted the place because he felt it his duty to do so and not because he wanted the place. He was conscientious in the discharge of this duties and showed no favoritism. He did his duty as God gave him the light to see it. His death comes at a time when Alexandria needed his services and his cool and unprejudiced judgment.

Mr. Vinson is survived by his widow, Mrs. Nettie Vinson, one stepson, George B. Epperson, and a stepdaughter, Mrs. F.O. Karll, both of Barraboo, Wis. Also two brothers, Joshua E. Vinson, of this city, and Edward Vinson, of South Bend.

Deceased was a member of Necessity Lodge No. 222, I.O.O.F. and the Encampment; also of Meshingomisha Tribe No. 110, Red Men.

[Note: Albert was my maternal 2nd-great granduncle, having been married 1st to Anna L. Wright (1864-1914), daughter of Joseph and Rebecca (Heaton) Wright.]

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Alpha Jones Funeral

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, Tuesday, December 18, 1934, page 1.

Jones Funeral on Wednesday

Funeral services for the late Alpha Jones, who died suddenly at noon Monday at his country home northeast of the city, will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock in the First M.E. church. The service will be conducted by Rev. T.S. Haddock, the pastor, and Rev. E.C. Dunn, a former pastor here, who is now stationed at Osgood, Ind. Rev. Mr. Dunn is the father of Mrs. Harold Day, daughter-in-law of the deceased.

Wednesday afternoon at 1 o'clock there will be a brief prayer service at the Jones home after which the body will be brought to the church to lie in state from 1:30 until the hour of the funeral. Interment will be in the Odd Fellows cemetery.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Alpha Jones Died Suddenly at Rural Home

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, Monday, December 17, 1934, page 1.

Alpha Jones Dies Suddenly At Rural Home

Widely Known Alexandria Resident Victim Heart Attack

Alpha Jones, 71, widely known Monroe township farmer and a resident of Alexandria and the immediate community for many years, died suddenly of a heart attack just before noon today at his home two miles north and a mile and a quarter east of Alexandria.

Although he had been under the care of a physician for several weeks, his condition had not been such as to confine him to the house and he was up and about as usual this morning. He was seated in a chair in the living room when the fatal stroke came upon him, and was dead when a physician who was hurridly[sic] summoned reached the Jones home.

The body was brought to the Davis and Stricler funeral home, and will remain their until preparations have been completed for the funeral and burial.

Mr. Jones owned a valuable farm northeast of the city and lived there for many years. He retired from active farm work six years ago and moved to his property at 419 North Canal street. Last year he and Mrs. Jones, who was Miss Amanda Hawkins before her marriage, decided to return to the farm, and their grandson, Harold Day, and his family, moved there with him.

Mr. Jones is survived by his wife, one daughter, Mrs. Myrtle Day, of West Broadway, two grandsons, Harold and Alpha Day, and two great grandchildren, the children of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Day.

Note : William Alpha Jones was the first married to my maternal 2nd-great grandaunt, Elizabeth Wright (1863-1882), who died in childbirth.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Thieves Visit Wright Home

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, Wednesday, October 14, 1936, page 1.

Thieves Visit Wright Home

Clothing and Jewelry Missing When Family Returned

By removing a screen and crawling through a rear window, thieves entered the home of Fred Wright, corner of Broadway and Canal streets, last evening and stole clothing and jewelry valued at $75.

The housebreakers looted the home and escaped with a new overcoat and raincoat belonging to Mr. Wright, a pair of trousers to a new suit and a Masonic ring. A white gold watch belonging to his son Orville, and a ladies purse and pearl ring belonging to Mrs. Wright and a collection of old coins was also taken.

Mr. Wright, who is a rural mail carrier and his wife left their home at 7 o'clock and came to the business district to watch the Democratic parade. When they returned at 8:30 they discovered the robbery. The thieves had pulled all blinds in the house and the floors were littered with burnt matches indicating that the robbers had used the matches to see their way about.

Police were notified but a search about the house and premises failed to uncover any clews[sic] that will lead to the arrest and identity of the thieves. The raincoat was lined with brown material. It bore the name of Fred Wright, and police are seeking trace of the coat on that identification. All other windows in the home were securely fastened.

Monday, January 26, 2009

James Wright Funeral

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, Alexandria, Indiana, Friday, October 16, 1936, page 1.

James Wright Funeral

A large number of the relatives, friends and neighbors of the late James Wright gathered at the family home on South Wayne Street this afternoon to attend his funeral, which was conducted there by Rev. Otto Stroup, paster of the Christian church at Frankton.

Mr. Wright, who was born and reared on a farm two miles south of Alexandria, a son of the late Joseph Wright, had spent all of his life in that community until he retired from active farm work and moved to Alexandria a few years ago.

Pallbearers at the service were old neighbors and friends, Logan Jones, Harry Morgan, George Hicks, H.G. Ferguson, Charles Black and Thomas Ellis. Internment was in the I.O.O.F. cemetery here.

Sunday, January 25, 2009

New Emergency Truck in Crash

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, December 23, 1955, page 5.

New Emergency Truck in Crash

Alexandria - Alexandria's new emergency truck, belonging to the fire department, was involved in a four-vehicle wreck on its way to answer a resuscitation call at the home of the Rev. Archie Kent, Innisdale, where an electric pump motor had filled the house with smoke. Driving the truck was Fire Chief Mace Hitchens. City police reported that the truck had both the red light and siren operating. The truck crossed Washington and Harrison St. intersection when a car driven by Frank Lambertson Jr., manager of the Town Theater, was in a collision with it.

The truck was going against a red light but had the right of way, police stated. After the collision with the Lambertson car the truck careened into an auto driven by Neal King, 11th Street Rd., which was stopped on the Washington street side of Harrison. After hitting the King car, the truck bounced across the street and hit a car owned by Almeda Clymer, RR 3. There were no injuries but there was an estimated damage to the King car of $450 and the emergency truck damage was estimated at between $750 and $1000. The truck was only recently put into service after being paid for by the donations from Alexandria industries, businesses, organizations and private citizens, and it was on its first run.

Friday, January 23, 2009

25 Year Club of Johns-Manville Company

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Tuesday, June 7, 1955, page 5.

Join 25-Year Club - The seven men shown above became members of the 25-year Club of the Johns-Manville Company at a luncheon held in their honor today at the White Spot near Alexandria. H.R. Berlin, vice president and general manager of the Building Products Division of Johns-Manville in New York City, was present to welcome the men into the organization, honoring them for completing 25 years of service. Each received a gold watch and pin. In the photo above are: Thomas D. Armstrong, Raymond Berg, Otis Delinger, Edgar E. Gosnell, Emory Graham, Frank R. Lambertson, and Raymond McConnell. The total of the Alexandria members is now 42.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

New Entries in Primary Races

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, March 19, 1954, page 1.

New Entries in Primacy Races

Robert D. Lambertson, Monroe Township, Democrat, precinct committeman.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Jerry Lambertson reports to Great Lakes Naval Station

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Saturday, August 26, 1961, page 10.

ALEXANDRIA - Jerry Lambertson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Lambertson, 701 W. Van Buren St., has gone to the Great Lakes Naval Training Station for boot training with the U.S. Navy.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Marriage License: Patz and Lambertson

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, May 21, 1956, page 5.

Marriage Licenses

Virgil Patz, Alexandria, and Shirley Ann Lambertson, Alexandria

Monday, January 19, 2009

Notice of Final Accounting: Virgil Milton Farmer estate

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Wednesday, February 6, 1974, page 30.

NOTICE OF FINAL ACCOUNTING TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF Virgil Milton Farmer, Deceased, Estate No. E-73-165

Notice is hereby given that a final report and account has been filed by Leila A. Lambertson the Administratrix herein, with a petition for authority to distribute the assets thereof. The same will come up for approval by the Hon. Paul E. Schrenker, Judge Madison Superior Court on the 15th day of February 1974, unless persons interested in said estate appear, on or before said date, and show cause, if any therebe, why such accounting should not be approved, or unless such person make proof of heirship, claim any part of such estate, not shown by such report. Therefore unless any person interested in this estate, has some objection to the final accounting as filed or claim, your presence is not required in court, on the date herein above set out.

Thomas Newman
Clerk, Madison Circuit and Superior Courts

Beckman, Rotruck and Schuyler
Attorneys for Estate

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Lambertson fair queen candidate

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, August 27, 1976, page 16.

Summitville fair to open Sept. 14

Summitville - The 29th annual Summitville Lions Club Fair has been scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 14 through Saturday, Sept. 18th, at the Lions Club Park, according to President Don Carpenter.

The fair will be kicked off by a parade Tuesday, Sept. 14th at 6 p.m. The hour-long event will weave through the downtown area and end at the Lions Den, a building on the fairgrounds, the president said.

The parade will be followed by the crowning of a fair queen who will reign over the five day affair. Mrs. Donna Kepher, chairman of the queen contest, said five Madison Grant High School girls are in competition for the queen title. They are Janet Hill, Judy Sappenfield, Terri Lambertson, Melanie Thurston and Jade Hurt.

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Personal Injury Accident : Lambertson

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Saturday, June 5, 1976, page 2.

Saturday June 5

12:38 am Personal injury accident

Auto accident at 25th Street and Raible Avenue; drivers were Deborah G. Lambertson, 24, 683 N. Fifth St., Middletown, and Jeanee A. Richwine, 24, 4204 Haverhill Drive. Both drivers suffered bumps to the head. Officers Langley and Blaszkiewiez.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Leila A. Lambertson appointed Administratrix

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Tuesday, June 12, 1973, page 20.

Notice of Appointment

Cause No. E-73-165

Notice is hereby given that Leila A. Lambertson was on the 30th day of May 1973, appointed Administratrix by the Hon. Paul E. Schrenker, Judge of the Madison Superior Court of the Estate of Virgil Milton Farmer deceased. All persons having claims against said estate, whether or not now due, must file the same in said court within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Said Estate is supposed to be solvent.

Dated at Anderson, Indiana this 30th day of May 1973.

Thomas Newman
Clerk of the Madison Circuit & Superior Courts

Beckman, Rotruck & Schuyler, Attorneys

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Lambertson-Lehman engagement

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, March 27, 1970, page 13.

Lambertson-Lehman

A September wedding is being planned by Miss Amy Lou Lehman and Kenneth E. Lambertson, according to an announcement by the future bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Emerson Lehman, of Berne, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Lambertson of Alexandria are the parents of the future bridegroom.

The bride-elect is a graduate of South Adams High School and Fort Wayne Practical School of Nursing. She is presently employed at the Caylor-Nickle Clinic, Bluffton.

Her fiance is a graduate of Alexandria-Monroe High School and served three years in the U.S. Army. He is presently employed at Nicholson File Co.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Lambertson family reunion

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Thursday, May 18, 1961, page 20.

Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson, Mr. and Mrs. John Barger, Miss Valerie Barger and Brent Barger attended the Lambertson family reunion at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Fetz in Elwood.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Visited with Mrs. Lola Whisler at Arcadia

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, July 7, 1960, page 2.

BETHANY - Mr. and Mrs. John Barger and family, and Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson visited recently with Mrs. Lola Whisler at Arcadia.

Monday, January 12, 2009

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lambertson visit relatives

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Tuesday, April 9, 1964, page 26.

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lambertson of Yuba City, Calif., were recent visitors of Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson and relatives.

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Spinsters Club meets

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Monday, December 18, 1961, page 16.

ALEXANDRIA - The Spinsters Club met Monday at the home of Miss Mary Ann Hocker. Miss Sheri Robbins conducted the meeting. Plans were made for a Christmas party to be held at the home of Miss Linda Lambertson.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Mr. Barger's birthday

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, May 1, 1969, page 8.

Mrs. John Barger entertained at her home recently in honor of Mr. Barger's birthday anniversary. The occasion was also the ninth birthday anniversary of Valerie Barger and the first birthday anniversary of Lorelei Barger. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. Charles Barger, Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson, Mr. James Marlin, Misses: Sheila Councellor, Lisa Horton, Jill McKowen, Karla Harris and Sandy Hoffman and the honored guests.

Thursday, January 08, 2009

Mrs. Clara Lambertson fractures hip

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Monday, April 22, 1957, page 4.

25 Years Ago : Anderson in 1932

Mrs. Clara Lambertson, 830 E. 8th St., fractured her hip when she tripped over a bed slat while carrying an article of furniture.

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson return home

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Wednesday, May 27, 1959, page 11.

Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson, Mr. and Mrs. John Barger and son, Brent, have returned home after visiting Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lambertson at Yuba City, Calif.

C.F.G. Club meets at home of Mrs. Floyd Lambertson

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Wednesday, April 22, 1959, page 13.

ALEXANDRIA - Members of the C.F.G. Club met Thursday evening at the home of Mrs. Floyd Lambertson with Mrs. Wayne Ryan assisting. Contest prizes were awarded to Mrs. Keith Ashby, Mrs. Marvin Knotts, and Mrs. Herbert Silvey.

Sunday, January 04, 2009

Pearl Lambertson's 89th Birthday Anniversary

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, June 9, 1967, page 3.

BETHANY - Mr. and Mrs. John Barger and family entertained with a family reunion at their home in honor of Mrs. Barger's aunt, Mrs. Pearl Lambertson's eighty-ninth birthday anniversary. A pitch-in dinner was the highlight of the noon hour. Attending were Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lambertson of Weingate, Mo.; Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lambertson, Mr. and Mrs. Forrest VanNess, Mrs. Lena Fetz, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Lambertson and son, Ronald, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Priest, Lynn Priest and Ronald Priest, all of Elwood; Mr. and Mrs. Everett Webb, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Hershberger, all of Summittville; Mr. and Mrs. Bill Hornell and sons Jimmy and Mike, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fisher, all of Lapel; Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambetson, Charles Barger, the hosts, Mr. and Mrs. John Barger and children, Valerie and Brent.

Saturday, January 03, 2009

Jerry Lambertson on leave

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Wednesday, November 21, 1962, page 5.

Jerry Lambertson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Lambertson, 701 W. Van Buren St., is visiting his parents during a leave from his duties with the United States Navy. He will report back to the Brooklyn Navy Yards at the end of his 15-day leave.

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Lambertson, 57th Wedding Anniversary

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Wednesday, April 14, 1954, page 13.

ELWOOD - Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lambertson, 2211 South E. St., will celebrate their 57th wedding anniversary at their home on Easter Sunday. A family dinner will be held at noon and open house will be held from 2 until 6 p.m. Mrs. Lambertson is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. B.T. Beals and was born in Westfield. Mr. Lambertson was born in Ohio, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carey Lambertson. The couple was married at Cicero on April 18, 1897. Mrs. Lambertson is 75 and her husband is 82. Both are members of the Cicero Christian Church. There are six children: Clemon Lambertson, Anderson; Orval Lambertson, Yuba City, Calif.; Mrs. Leona Fetz, Mrs. Pauline VanNess and Paul Lambertson, all of Elwood; Mrs. Elizabeth Hershberger, near Summitville; 20 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Mr. Lambertson was a painter and carpenter for the Traction Company for 10 years and is the oldest member of the Cicero Christian Church, where he has been affiliated for the past 87 years. All relatives and friends of the couple have been invited to call during the afternoon.

Larry Lambertson, Patricia Dockery Will Be Married

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Thursday, November 30, 1961, page 34.

Larry Lambertson, Patricia Dockery Will Be Married

ALEXANDRIA - Mrs. L. Irene Dockery, 429 E. Jackson St., has announced the engagement of her daughter, Patricia Ann Dockery, and Larry Lee Lambertson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Lambertson, 701 W. Van Buren St.

The late Lon Dockery was the father of the bride-elect.

The wedding will be held at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Epworth Methodist Church. The double ring ceremony will be performed by the Rev. Fred Anderson.

Miss Dockery is a 1961 graduate of the Alexandria-Monroe Township High School and is employed at the Norwood Bowl.

Mr. Lambertson is a 1960 graduate of Alexandria High School and is serving with the Navy. He is stationed at Portsmouth, Va.

Miss Lambertson Feted At Shower

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Tuesday, May 15, 1956, page 5.

Miss Lambertson Feted At Shower

ALEXANDRIA - Miss Shirley Lambertson was feted recently at a bridal shower in the I. and M. Rooms by Miss Inez Allen, Miss Nancy McCaslin and Mrs. James Sigler. Contests were enjoyed and the honor guest opened her gifts from a beautifully decorated table.

Guests included Virginia Dea Kyne, Betty Crower, Wanita Hinds, Valeta Shaw, Rosemary Robbins, Virginia Green, Joan Coffin, Ethel Benefiel, Mary Zigler, Grace Shaffer, Nellie Foster, Ruth Huffman, Mary Savage, Velva Shelton, Donna Reiley, Mary Jo Reily, Charlotte Vetor, Darlene Lambertson, Mrs. Robert Patz Sr., and Mrs. Frank Lambertson.

Pearl Lambertson Expires Monday

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Tuesday, August 4, 1970, page 2.

Pearl Lambertson Expires Monday

ELWOOD - Mrs. Pearl M. Lambertson, 92, who had resided at Rt. 1, Summitville, died at the Dickey Nursing Home at 10:30 a.m. Monday after an illness of several months.

Born in Westfield, May 11, 1878, she was a daughter of Nathan and Elizabeth Beals. She was married in 1897 to Charles Lambertson who died in May, 1958. She was a member of the Cicero Christian Church.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday at the Copher and Fesler Funeral Home with Rev. Ralph Richardson officiating. Interment will be in the Cicero Cemetery.

Friends may call at the mortuary today.

Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Leona Carpenter and Mrs. Pauline Vanness both of Elwood and Mrs. Elizabeth Hershberger Rt. 1, Summitville; three sons, Clemon Lambertson, Anderson, Orville (Jack) Lambertson, Oroville, Calif., and Paul Lambertson, Elwood; 17 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great grandchildren.

Alexandria Man Expires Friday; Rites Pending

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Saturday, June 5, 1971, page 2.

Alexandria Man Expires Friday; Rites Pending

ALEXANDRIA - Bert Lambertson, 94, 110 E. Polk, died Friday at the Bradford Nursing Home following a seven weeks illness.

He was born August 2, 1886 in Tipton County, the son of Carey and Clara Lambertson. He retired 15 years ago from the railroad company.

Survivors include the widow, Leah Mae, two sons, Frank and Bob Lambertson, both of Anderson; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

The body is at the Noffze Funeral Home. Funeral rites are pending.

Elwood Couple Sets Wedding

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Saturday, June 3, 1961, page 3.

Elwood Couple Sets Wedding

Elwood - Mr. and Mrs. Harold Lambertson have announced marriage of their daughter, Cecilia Marie Lambertson, to PFC Jerry Priest, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Priest of Elwood.

The wedding will be performed at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the First Baptist Church.

Attendants of the couple will be Miss Susan Reynolds, maid of honor; Miss Brenda Joyce Heflin and Miss Joyce Ann Hoover, bridesmaids; Billie Groover, flowergirl; Ronald Lambertson, ring bearer; Charles Riser, best man, and John Wheeler, Darrell Murry, Billy Priest and Rod Birkenbine, ushers.

Following the ceremony a reception will be held in the church basement.

Dinner Is Held At Barger Home

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Monday, October 14, 1963, page 9.

Dinner Is Held At Barger Home

BETHANY - Mr. and Mrs. John Barger entertained at their home on Miller Hills Rd., in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lambertson and sister, Grace, of Yuba City, Calif. A basket dinner was a feature of the noon hour. Slides were shown of Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson's and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lambertson's trip through the West.

Attending were the host and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lambertson and sister, Grace, of Yuba City, Calif.., Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lambertson and Harold Lambertson of Elwood, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Hershberger and Mrs. Charles Lambertson of Summitville, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Fisher and daughter, Elizabeth, of Lapel, Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Wright and Mrs. Floyd Lambertson of Alexandria, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Walsh, Vickie and Mike Walsh, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Barger, Joan Hershberger, Valerie Barger and Brent Barger.

Miss Lambertson To Wed May 26

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, April 13, 1956, page 13.

Miss Lambertson To Wed May 26

ALEXANDRIA - May 26 has been set as the wedding date of Miss Shirley Lambertson and Virgil Patz. The vows will be exchanged in the St. Mary's Catholic Church. Miss Lambertson is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lambertson Sr., 402 Walnut St., and her fiancee is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Patz Sr., 1302 W. 1st St.

Miss Lambertson is a graduate of the local high school and is a member of St. Mary's Church and Delta Theta Tau Sorority.

The bridegroom-to-be is also a local graduate and a member of St. Mary's Church. He attended St. Joseph's College and Ball State Teacher's College. He also served two years in the U.S. Army.

Thursday, January 01, 2009

Patricia Dockrey Is Wed

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, January 26, 1962, page 9.

Patricia Dockrey Is Wed

Miss Patricia Ann Dockrey, daughter of Mrs. Irene Dockrey, 429 E. Jackson St., Alexandria, and the late Mr. Dockrey, became the bride of Larry Lee Lambertson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Lambertson, 701 W. Van Buren, Alexandria, on Saturday Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the Epworth Methodist Church with the Rev. Fred Anderson performing the double-ring vows.

Peggy Cassell, pianist, played bridal airs before the ceremony. Two bouquets of white [illegible] tied with blue bows decorated the altar. The family pews were marked with white bows.

Given in marriage by her brother, David Dockrey, the bride wore a white brocade street length dress. She wore a quarter length veil of illusion, a crystal necklace and matching earrings. She carried a Bible topped with white roses.

The bride's sister, Cynthia Dockrey, acted as maid of honor wearing a blue brocade dress with a shoulder-length veil. She also carried a bouquet of white carnations tied with blue ribbons.
David Nash served as best man, and ushers were Phillip Dockrey, the bride's brother, and Kenny Lambertson, the groom's brother.

Mothers of both the bride and groom wore blue dresses with black accessories and pink corsages.

A reception for the immediate families and grandparents of the couple was held at the home of the bride's mother. A two-tiered wedding cake centered the serving table.

Mr. and Mrs. Lambertson now are residing at 518 Portsmouth Blvd., Portsmouth, Va. The groom is stationed at the Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth.

Guests of Mr. & Mrs. John Barger

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Thursday, August 18, 1960, page 26.

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lambertson , Miss Karen Lambertson, and Everett Webber of Elwood, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Whisler and Glen Whisler of Arcadia, Mr. and Mrs. Clemon Lambertson were recent guests of Mr. and Mrs. John Barger and family.

Republican Women's Club of Pipe Creek Township

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Wednesday, September 9, 1964, page 20.

The Republican Women's Club of Pipe Creek Township met in the Republican headquarters. Mrs. Martha Lambertson presided. Mrs. Lambertson extended her appreciation to the committees who worked on the picnic held a [sic] Alexandria. They included Mrs. Mabel Procter, program; Mrs. Perry Cornelius, hospitality; Mrs. Letha Badger, registration; Mrs. Ethel Wimmer, decorations for the platform, and Mrs. Lambertson and Mrs. Audrey Frazee, co-chairman of the decorations. The next meeting will be held Oct. 5 at headquarters.

Shirley Lambertson Weds Virgil Patz

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, June 1, 1956, pages 11-12.

Shirley Lambertson Weds Virgil Patz on May 26

Miss Shirley Lambertson daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lambertson Sr., 402 Walnut St., Alexandria, became the bride of Virgil L. Patz, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Patz, 1301 W. 1st St., Alexandria, on Saturday, May 26 at 9 a.m. in the St. Mary's Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert F. Kreutzer, of Lebanon, officiating at the double-ring ceremony. Assisting Rev. Kreutzer were George Ross, Pat Matney, Charles Montgomery and William Montgomery, of Anderson.

Organ selections were presented by Mrs. Harry Beardsley, and vocalists at the nuptial high mass were Charles Mack, of Alexandria, and Mrs. Lawrence Staggs, of Anderson.

The chancel was decorated with bouquets of mums, snapdragons and palms. A white aisle runner extended to the altar.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride appeared in a floor-length gown of hand-clipped Chantilly lace and nylon tulle which featured a scalloped neckline, a fitted bodice and lace appliques on the bouffant skirt. The long tapered sleeves came to bridal points over her hands.

Her finger-tipped veil of illusion fell from a crown of seed pearls and sequins. She wore a single strand of pearls, a gift from the groom, and carried a white prayer book and a cascade arrangement of rosebuds, white streamers and lace.

The maid of honor, Miss Darleen Lambertson, sister of the bride, wore a waltz-length gown of shell pink satin which featured a square off-the-shoulder neckline outlined by a row of ruffled net. She carried a cascade of raspberry carnations.

The bridesmaids, Misses Ilene Mack, of Alexandria, and Jean Ann Fettig, of Hartford City, wore identically fashioned waltz-length gowns of net over taffeta. Tiers of figured nylon net ruffles accented the bodice, skirt and capelet. Miss Mack wore pale lavender and Miss Fettig was gowned in lime green. Both carried cascades of yellow and lavender carnations. All the attendants wore a triple banded cap of feathers dotted with rhinestones.

Frank Lambertson, brother of the bride, served as best man. Ushers included Joseph Rasteller Jr., Maurice Mehling, Larry Pierce and David Garner.

For her daughter's wedding, Mrs. Lambertson chose a pink dress with white accessories and a corsage of pink carnations. Mrs. Patz, mother of the bridegroom, wore a blue dress with white accessories and a corsage of blue carnations.

A reception was held in the parish club rooms. The serving table was centered with a five-tiered wedding cake decorated with roses and topped with a miniature bride and groom. Serving the guests were Miss Teresa Diamond, Mrs. Frances New, of Alexandria; Miss Maralyn Young, of Summitville, and Miss Betty Maxwell, of Anderson. Individual tables were decorated with bridal colors and centered with wedding bells. Miss Marjorie Gooding presided at the registration table.

For her wedding trip to Chicago, Mrs. Patz changed into a lavender silk dress with a matching linen jacket and a corsage of pink roses. Upon their return the couple will reside at 506 W. Van Buren, Alexandria.

Mrs. Patz was graduated from Alexandria High School and is employed as a secretary in the engineering department of Haynes-Stellite Co. Her husband was graduated from Alexandria High School and attended St. Joseph's College and Ball State Teachers College. He served two years in the U.S. Army and is presently employed as a clerk in the E and R department of Johns-Manville Co., Alexandria.

Local Men Active At Assembly: Rock, Bailey Attend: Lambertson To Be Doorkeeper

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Wednesday, January 7, 1959, page 1.

Local Men Active At Assembly

Rock, Bailey Attend; Lambertson To Be Doorkeeper

Madison County's Democratic members of the Indiana 1959 General Assembly will be sworn into office tomorrow, and most of them reported to the state capitol this forenoon for a preliminary rehearsal arranged for state representatives. A number of local Democrats will attend the Assembly opening Thursday.

State Rep. Robert Rock and State Rep. J.J. Bailey, both of Anderson, reported at the state capitol at 11 a.m. today for a rehearsal session to prepare for tomorrow's opening.

Other Democrat members of the State Legislature from this area who will report for tomorrow's Assembly opening are as follows:

John Kirkpatrick, Fortville, joint representative from Hancock and Madison counties.

Melvin Watson, Greenfield, joint senator from Henry, Madison and Hancock counties.

George McDermott, Alexandria, a Republican, is a holdover member of the state senate.

The only appointment confirmed thus far from Madison county for a post in the General Assembly is that of Robert Lambertson, Alexandria, as doorkeeper. Mr. Lambertson is Democratic chairman in Pct. 5 Monroe Twp. His wife is Mary Lambertson, clerk in the County Planning office.

Reps. Rock and Bailey are making plans for preparing a measure for presentation before the General Assembly that would assure protection for property owners against sale of their property for delinquent taxes unless they have been notified. The bill is designed to assure owners have knowledge of a contemplated sale and to prevent loss of homes through sale for taxes.

A number of prominent local Democrats will attend the Assembly opening, including Mayor Ralph R. Ferguson and others.

Commissioners Appoint Two to County Positions

Source: Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Tuesday, December 1, 1959, page 1.

Commissioners Appoint Two to County Positions

Members of the incoming Madison County Board of Commissioners, Ralph Thurston, north district, and Harold Foust, member-elect, middle district, today announced through the office of William Norton, Democrat county chairman, the selection of two new county appointees who will assume their duties Jan. 1 when the Democratic controlled board takes office.

Mrs. Mary Lambertson, Alexandria, is to be secretary in the commissioners office succeeding Audrey Welch, who is to become secretary in the planning body office.

Gene Brundage, 2724 East Lynn St., is to be county veterans service officer. Both appointees are Democrats.

Mrs. Lambertson was employed as clerk of the circuit for Joe Armington, county clerk in 1952 and 1953. She held the post of secretary in the commissioners office in 1956 and 1957. For the past two years, 1958 and 1959, she has been secretary in the office of the County Planning Commission and building inspector. She is the daughter of Ray Miller, president of the Alexandria Bank. Her husband, Robert Lambertson, is a precinct committeeman. They have one daughter, Nancy, 13.

Mr. Brundage, who will become veterans office, is 27 years old. He served in the Armed Forces from February, 1953, to February, 1955, with 29 months of that time spent in Europe as a message center clerk and company clerk. He was graduated from Anderson High School and attended Ball State Teachers College. He is a member of the Eagles Lodge, UAW Local 662 and attends the First Baptist Church. He worked as a real estate assessor in the township assessors's office and is now employed at Delco-Remy. He has a wife, Joyce Illise Brundage and two children, Gina Lynn, 3, and Brenda Gaye, 2.

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Betty Fisher is Feted at Shower

Source : Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Monday, July 23, 1956, page 2.

Betty Fisher is Feted at Shower

Bethany - Miss Betty Fisher, bride-elect of John Barger, was complimented recently at a linen shower at the home of Mrs. Vernon Fisher, R.R. 3. Miss Linda Fisher assisted as co-hostess.
Miss Fisher and Mr. Barger will exchange nuptial vows on Sunday, Aug. 5, at 2:30 p.m. in Bethany Christian Church.

A lace-covered gift table was centered with a bridal basket decorated in the bride-elect's chosen colors of pale green and yellow. The gifts were opened by candlelight.

Game prizes were awarded to Mrs. Clemon Lambertson and Mrs. P.K. Duncan.

Guests present were Mesdames Clemon Lambertson, Charles Barger, P.K. Duncan, Clarence Bagley, Ralph Hershberger, Charles Lambertson, William Wright, Guy Whisler, Omer Whisler, James Elmore, Miss Linda Fisher and the guest of honor.

Also invited were Mesdames Robert Walsh, Edward Bartley and Floyd Lambertson.

Mrs. Albert Smith will honor the bride-elect with a china and crystal shower this evening and Mrs. James Elmore will fete Miss Fisher at a miscellaneous shower Wednesday evening.

Lambertson - Farmer Wedding

Source : Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Friday, February 26, 1960

Lambertson - Farmer

Miss Leila Ann Farmer became the bride of Frank Lambertson Jr. in a double-ring ceremony performed Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Paul's Catholic Church at Marion by the Rev. James J. O'Neil. Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Verlin Farmer, Summitville, and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lambertson Sr., 402 Walnut St., Alexandria.

Baskets of white carnations and red roses decorated the altar.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a full-length gown of white satin and a net with a short, fitted jacket and long sleeves ending in traditional bridal points over her hands.

Her shoulder length veil of illusion fell from a scalloped bandeau of lace and seed pearls that framed her face.

Her crescent bouquet was of red roses, white carnations and lillies of the valley.

Her attendant was Miss Patricia Johnson, who wore a dress of aqua taffeta and lace with matching slippers, and with accessories in white. Her flowers were white carnations.

Best man was John Humphries of St. Mary's, Ohio, and ushers were Bob Armstrong and Virgil Patz of Alexandria.

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

More Hagaman data

Did some more surfing around the net to see what else I might be able to find on the Hagaman family, hoping that it might shed some light on where my branch of the Moulton line was living and to add some more descendants. Here is what I found:

At the website, The Worcester Family, was an online version of Jonathan Worcester's The Worcester Family, or the Descendants of Rev. William Worcester. (W.W. Kellogg, Lynn, Mass., 1856) and Sarah Alice Worcester's The Descendants of Rev. William Worcester With a Brief Notice of the Connecticut Wooster Family. (E.F. Worcester, Publisher, Hudson Printing Company, 1914), which listed the children of Charles Sherman & Lydia (Moulton) Hagaman as :

1- Clara Eliza, b Jan. 14, 1869, d Mar. 29, 1904, St. Joseph, Mo.; m Jan. 14, 1892, Joe Postlewart. 2- Lydia Emeline, b Oct. 17, 1870; m Jan. 10, 1898, R.D. Ward.
3- Wallace Joel, b May 28, 1872; m Aug., 1901, Rose McCully.
4- Charles Albert, b Nov. 28, 1874; m Dec. 18, 1892, Gertrude Onslow.
5- Nettie Jane, b Mar. 31, 1877; m Feb. 5, 1899. Farmer.


I also found Charles Sherman Hagaman in the 1900 census of Rich Hill Township, Livingston County, Missouri, with wife Lydia, and son Charles. By 1910, Charles Sherman & wife Lydia were living in the same township next door to their son Charles, along with granddaughter Mattie Postalwait. By the 1920 census of Rich Hill Township, Livingston County, Missouri, Charles Sherman was living with his son Charles, listed as aged 75 and widowed.

A search of the Missouri State Archives Death Certificates did not turn up a match for Charles Sherman Hagaman. However, Lydia's death certificate from October 17, 1916 in Chillicothe shows that she was born January 15, 1849 in Bureau County, Illinois. Her father was given as Albert Moulton, birthplace unknown, and her mother as Emeline Philbrick, born in Ohio. The informant was her daughter, Nettie Farmer of Jackson, Miss. Lydia was buried in Edgewood Cemetery.

Looks like I should be able to find Lydia & her parents, Albert & Emeline (Philbrick) Moulton in the 1850 census of Bureau County, Illinois. The hunt goes on.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Charles Hagaman family - 1880 Livingston County, MO

Today I sourced the 1880 census record of the Charles HAGAMAN family of Rich Hill Township, Livingston County, Missouri. Charles was my paternal 2nd-great granduncle, married to Lydia MOULTON. Lydia was the daughter of Albert and Emeline (PHILBRICK) MOULTON.

In 1880, Charles was listed as "C. Hagaman", farmer, age 35, born New York, with his father born in New York and his mother born in Vermont. His wife, Lydia, was listed as age 31, born in Illinois, with father born in Vermont and mother born in Ohio. The rest of their children were listed erroneously as having their father born in Illinois and mother born in New York. Obviously the enumerator switched the locations of Charles and Lydia's birth. Their children were all listed as being born in Missouri, and included : Clara, aged 11; Lydia, aged 9; Wallace, aged 7; Charles, aged 4; and Nettie, aged 2. The name of the last daugther was a bit hard to read, so Nettie is my best guess.

In the 1870, the family was living in Chillicothe Township, Livingston County, Missouri. I have not found them in any later census records yet. Charles was a Civil War veteran, serving with the 18th New York Infantry.

Charles S. Hagaman b. November 16, 1844 Rochester, Monroe County, New York, d. after 1880 census, m. February 1868 Alexandria, Ohio to Lydia Moulton. Lydia b. ca. 1849 either Ohio or Illinois, d. October 17, 1916 Livingston County, Missouri. Their children :
i. Clara Hagaman b. ca. 1869 Missouri, d. after 1880 census
ii. Lydia Hagaman b. ca. 1871 Missouri, d. after 1880 census
iii. Wallace Hagaman b. ca. 1873 Missouri, d. after 1880 census
iv. Charles Hagaman b. ca. 1876 Missouri, d. after 1880 census
v. Nettie Hagaman b. ca 1878 Missouri, d. after 1880 census

Friday, December 26, 2008

James Austin Davis was insane

My maternal 3rd great grandfather, James Austin DAVIS, was insane, according to the 1880 census of Clay Township in Owen County, Indiana. In that census, he is an inmate of the Owen County Asylum, listed as insane as well as crippled, bedridden or otherwise disabled. His name was listed as Austin Davis, aged 30, married, born in Indiana.

As of yet, I have not discovered all of the details about his life and why he ended up in the asylum. In the 1900 census, he is a resident of the Northern Indiana Hospital for the Insane in Logansport, Cass County. In that census, he was listed as James A. Davis, born 1851 in Indiana. He died while still an inmate of the hospital on June 12, 1909.

Interestingly, in the 1880 census, he was shown as married. James had married Mary Ellen SWAFFORD on July 2, 1873 in Monroe County, Indiana. I have not found a record of their divorce, though they must have, as Mary Ellen eventually remarried. However, in the 1880 census, she is shown living with her father, Peter SWAFFORD, in Washington Township, Owen County, Indiana, as his 24 year old single daughter. Austin and Mary Ellen had two daughters, Ida and Dealie, that should have been living with some relative, but I have yet to locate them in the 1880 census.

James Austin Davis was born circa 1850 in Indiana, probably Monroe County, the son of Austin and Fanny (RUNNELS) DAVIS. Mary Ellen SWAFFORD was born August 30, 1854 near Stinesville, Monroe County, Indiana, the daughter of Peter Kirkpatrick and Mary Ann (CROCKETT) SWAFFORD.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

William Cunningham family - 1910 Jay Co., IN

Today I sourced the 1910 census record in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana for William E. CUNNINGHAM, my paternal 2nd-great granduncle. William was married to Rachel LEMASTERS, the daughter of Luman Walker and Nancy (YOUNG) LEMASTERS.

William was listed as a 75 year old farmer, born in Indiana, with father born in Virginia and mother born in Pennsylvania. He and Rachel had been married for 50 years. Rachel was listed as aged 71 years, born in Ohio, with both parents born in Ohio. She was listed as the mother of 6 children, 5 of whom were still living in 1910.

William's occupation was that of a farmer, which corresponds with other census records. In 1860, his occupation was listed as a shoemaker.

William was born February 1835 in Indiana, and married Rachel on March 18, 1860 in Jay County, Indiana. Rachel was born July 16, 1838 in Shelby County, Ohio, and died March 13, 1913 in Jay County, Indiana. Their children were :
i. Nancy M. Cunningham b. July 5, 1861 m. David Rants
ii. Catherine E. Cunningham b. 1861-1865
iii. Phillip L. Cunningham b. February 3, 1865 m. Eana Brake
iv. John W.M. Cunningham b. April 26, 1868 m. Leona A. Drake
v. Orinda Cunningham b. May 5, 1869 m. Elmer I. Pauling
vi. Martha J. Cunningham b. May 5, 1873 m. Elsworth Beard

Additional branch of the Jacobs line

It's Christmas morning, I'm the only one awake, so of course I'm working on genealogy. Going through my old files, I found an email I had saved from the JACOBS-L list regarding William JACOBS and Sybil LITTEL that has given me more leads and avenues of further research.

Back in 2005, June Jordan had written to the list regarding sorting out the data regarding the various JACOBS families in Brown County, Ohio and what she had discovered regarding William. Turns out William was not of her line, but she did an excellent job in pointing future researchers in the right direction by retracing her steps and giving sources for where she found her information.

According to her research, my William was the son of Jacob and Hannah (JOHNSON) JACOBS of Monongalia County, Virginia. Doing a quick Google search on Jacob, looks like there is quite a bit of information out there on him in the early records of Monongalia County - where he may have crossed paths with my Lemaster relatives - looks like I have some letters to write, etc.

William had at least two sisters, Rebecca who married Samuel Frazee, and Hannah who married a ________ Harbert. Samuel Frazee was a Revolutionary War veteran, as was Jacob Jacobs.

The email also gave information regarding Sybil Littel's sister, Rhoda Rilea, who was the widow of Revolutionary War veteran, Richard Rilea. Richard died 1839 in Brown County, Ohio.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Runaway Chew women

Working through some of the miscellaneous records in my files, I came across these two records that I saved from the CHEW mailing list on Rootsweb.

April 25, 1781: Gloucester County, April 23, 1781 To all whom it may concern, whereas my wife Elizabeth Chew, regardless of the Solemn obligation of matrimony, hath, during my captivity with the enemy, been guilty of the act of incontinency ....Aaron Chew

April 5, 1748; Whereas ANNE, the wife NATHANIEL CHEW, at the head of Timber-creek in Gloucester County, has disposed of some of her said husband's goods, without his knowledge, and ran him in debt; this is therefore to desire all persons not to trust her anymore on his account, not to buy any goods of her that she may offer to sale, for he will pay no debts of her contracting, nor allow of her selling any of his goods, from the date hereof. NATHANIEL CHEW

Both of these were quotes taken from the book "Runaway Women, Elopements And Other Miscreant Deeds, As Advertised In The Pennsylvania Gazette - 1728 -1789. (together with a few abused wives and unfortunate children)." Compiled by Judith Ann Highley Meier. Published by Closson Press. 1993.

I'm not sure which Aaron Chew family that this information relates to, and I believe that the Nathaniel Chew mentioned is the son of Nathaniel and Mary (Clark) Chew, who married Anne Gibbons. More research will need to be done to try to tie these records to individuals in my database. The book that these snippets were taken from sounds like an interesting read. Early newspapers are always full of juicy family tidbits.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Miss Hazel O'Bryant Entertained a Party of Friends

Alexandria Times-Tribune, Thursday, March 2, 1905, page 1.

ENTERTAINED HER FRIENDS

Miss Hazel O'Bryant Entertained a Party of Friends at Her Home Tuesday Night.

Miss Hazel O'Bryant entertained at her home on West Jefferson on Tuesday evening, in honor of her birthday anniversary. A very enjoyable time was had by all, the evening being spent with games and music. Refreshments were served after which the guests collected around the mysterious table, waiting until a late hour to see it move.

Those present were Dora Frank, Bessie Horne, Winnie Hurlock, Eva Schwinn, Bessie Bowers, Thera Carver, Jennie Kendall, Shirley Pickard, Pearl Coffin, Thurman Hall, Omer Broyles, Hugh Kerr, Allen McKenna, Carl Jones, Ashel Cunningham, Otto Frank, Doxey Pickard, Jay Crouse, Howard Brattain and Ray Hupp.

[Hazel O'Bryant was my maternal 2nd-great grandaunt. She married Jesse WRIGHT on June 10, 1916 in Madison County, Indiana]

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Cousin Kellie's Blog

My first cousin Kellie in North Carolina has been blogging about her family life and creating family history memories at her site, Country Life. Reading about her her family's adventures helps remind me that family history is more than just people and dates. It is these day to day recording of the family history that will be carried on to the next generation.

The blog does a good job of telling the story of how they live, deal with current events and their relationships with family and friends. Many years down the road this will be something her kids and grandkids can look back upon and say 'remember when?'

North Carolina has a lot of interesting history, and we share a lot of Quaker ancestry that came from areas such as Guilford and Chatham counties. I hope to someday be able to visit her and see some of the historic sites that she's chronicled in her blog.

Google Books fill in the gaps

Google's Book Search has become an addictive and fruitful part of my research over the past few days. So much so that I find myself easily distracted, chasing down one rabbit hole or another.

I began by searching on the Philbrick line and came across a copy of Rev. Jacob Chapman's "A Genealogy of the Philbrick and Philbrook Families: Descended from the Emigrant, Thomas Philbrick, 1583-1687". My connection to the Philbrick family comes through my paternal 3rd-great grandmother, Emeline PHILBRICK (1820-1881) who married Albert MOULTON. As I had very little data on the family in my database, I was eager to see what this genealogy had to say. Through this genealogy, I was able to add seven more generations to this line. As I did other study on collateral lines, I was also able to learn more about colonial America and the Province of New Hampshire.

Soon I found myself searching for other collateral lines and learning about ancestors who came over during the Great Migration with the Winthrop Fleet. I finally had to remind myself to just stick with one task at a time. The good thing about Google Book Search is that you can add titles to "My Library" and go back search or browse to your hearts' content later.

The great thing about Google Book Search is that you can search in your pajamas and at any time of the day, something that is especially nice during these winter months when you don't want to venture out. They are continuing to add other libraries to their search database, and just recently added several magazines to the search capabilities, such as Life. Check it out!

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Richard Alderman Land Entry: Madison County, Indiana

Going through my scanned genealogy files, I found this land entry record from the National Archives for my maternal fourth great-grandfather, Richard Alderman (1810-aft1870). I had originally located this record through the GLO records website.



Richard's land entry was made August 1, 1839 in Madison County, Indiana in Section 22, Township 19-N, Range 7-E. The patent number was 2953 and the land office was the Indianapolis land office. Richard's 40 acres were authorized by the Land Act of 1820.



No. 29563 Land Office, Indianapolis December 20 1836



IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED, That, in pursuance of Law, Richard Alderman of Madison county, State of Indiana, on this day purchased of the Register of this Office, the lot or North East quarter of the South East quarter of section number Twenty two in township number Nineteen north of range number Seven East containing Forty acres, at the rate of one dollar and twenty five cents per acre, amounting to forty dollars and cents, for which the said Richard Alderman has made payment in full as required by law.



NOW THEREFORE BE IT KNOWN, That, on presentation of this certificate to the COMMISSIONER OF THE GENERAL LAND OFFICE, the said Richard Alderman shall be entitled to receive a patent for the lot above described.



A. St. Clair, Register




Land Office at Indianapolis

Dec 20th 1836

I Richard Alderman of Madison county, Ind do hereby apply for the purchase of NE qt of SE section, No. 22 Township No. 19 N. Range No. 7 E. containing 40 acres and ___ hundreths, according to the returns of the Surveyor General, for which I have agreed with the Register to give at the rate of $ 1 25 per acre.

Richard Alderman
X
his mark

I, Arthur St. Clair, Register of the Land Office, do hereby certify that the lot above described contains forty acres ___ hundreths as mentioned, and that the price agreed upon is $ 1 25 per acre.

A. St. Clair
Register


Sunday, December 07, 2008

Alex man was on Oklahoma at Pearl

Source : Anderson Herald-Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, Sunday, December 8, 1991.



Alex man was on Oklahoma at Pearl by Jim Bannon.



When we put together our special Pearl Harbor anniversary section recently, we contacted some people in this area who were survivors of the attack.



Another survivor turned up later, and even though we couldn't get his story in the Pearl Harbor section, I thought it deserved telling.



John M. High is 72 years old now and lives in Alexandria. On the morning of December 7, 1941, he was a ship's cook first class serving on the battleship U.S.S. Oklahoma, anchored along battleship row at Pearl Harbor.



High has been in bad health recently, suffering two heart attacks and a stroke and his story was told to me by his son, Charles, of Anderson, who works at Delco Remy.



When the attack came, High was in his bunk, since he had just come off nightwatch.



The Oklahoma was hit hard. It caught fire and, though it did not sink, it rolled over. Many on board lost their lives.



John High managed to get from below deck to the main deck. Smoke and fire were everywhere. He jumped over the rail and swam through burning oil to safety.



His son says the one story that sticks out in his mind that his father tells of that day is the one about a Catholic priest. It seems several men on the ship were trapped by flames and the only way out was through a porthole.



The priest, a portly man, helped push 12 men through that porthole to safety. But when he tried to get through he got stuck and drowned when the ship capsized. "He saved those 12 men but he couldn't save himself," the younger High said.



He said his father never talked much about Pearl Harbor and World War II. He talked more about it after he had his first heart attack, Charles High said.



A twist on High's story was that his parents were notified their son was missing in action. High was from Rowesburg, W. Va. The message they received read: "The Navy Department deeply regrets to inform you that your son, John M. High, is missing following action in the service of his country."

The message added that to prevent any possible aid to the enemy, the parents should not divulge the name of the ship he served on or where it was stationed.

Then on Jan. 2, 1942, his parents got the wonderful news that John was, indeed, safe. John High went on to serve the rest of World War II with the Navy in the Pacific, serving on several different ships.

He went almost nine years without seeing his parents, from 1936 to 1945.

How did he get to Alexandria? He met his wife while in the Navy. She was from Alex and when the war ended they settled there. High worked at Pierce Governor in Anderson for awhile and then joined Haynes Stellite Corp. in Kokomo. He retired from Cabot Corp. (which bought Haynes) in Kokomo.

"My father is a very patriotic person," Charles High said, "He has a great love for his country."

[John M. High married my maternal great-aunt, Clara Ellen Wright- TJL]

Day of Infamy : Alex Man Survived Pearl Harbor

Source: Alexandria Times-Tribune, December 11, 1991.

Day of Infamy: Alex Man Survived Pearl Harbor by Stephen Dick

It was the Day of Infamy. 50 years ago. Sleepy Pearl Harbor Navla [sic] Base in Hawaii, where reveille had been about an hour old. Sailors were waking up, taking showers, ands [sic] finding their way to the mess decks for a steaming cup of coffee.

The ships were lined up in port. On Battleship Row were some of the Navy's mightiest warships, named after the states. The USS Arizona has become the most famous but sitting two ships away, outboard from another battleship, was the USS Oklahoma. On the morning of Dec. 7, 1941, a first class cook named John M. High, already a five-year veteran of the Navy, was preparing chow for his shipmates. Just another Sunday morning, the ship probably in holiday routine.

While the men ate their breakfasts, the waters 200 miles north of Oahu were infested with Japanese ships including six carriers loaded with warplanes. Around 8 a.m. the squadron of Japanese bombers snaked around the mountain ridges that bordered Oahu. Past the mountains and over the sea the bombers turned north toward Pearl Harbor and dropped their lethal cargo on the unsuspecting men below. For a half hour 183 planes decimated much of the US's second fleet. Twenty ships were damaged, many sunk, including the USS Oklahoma where John High, like his shipmates, may have thought the apocalypse was upon them.

High went topside, saw the carnage, and knew his ship was going down. The ship had suffered repeated torpedo assaults. He had no recourse but to jump into the water which was covered with burning oil. High suffered some mild burns and was forced to swim under water to shore.

Soon his ship lay on the bottom of Pearl Harbor along with the Arizona and others. Also at the bottom were his naval records. He was listed as missing in action for six weeks after the attack. When High, who was from West Virginia, ran into a man he knew from home, the man was incredulous. "We thought you were dead." he told High.

John M. High is alive to this day, and makes his home in Alexandria. He moved here in the late Forties with his wife, Clara Ellen Wright, who was from Alexandria. Because he survived Pearl Harbor, where 2,000 soldiers and sailors died, High was honored last Saturday, the 50th anniversary of the attack, by the Alexandria Veterans of Foreign Wars where he was made an honorary member.

High is not the youth he was when he heard and felt the Japanese bombs falling that morning. At 72, he suffered a stroke two years ago and does very little nowadays. But Clara said he enjoyed the ceremony on Saturday. "John got emotional about it," she said.

When he was 22, however, he was more worried about getting his pay than he was about the historical significance of the bombing. When he tried to get paid, long after the attack, he was told he'd have to wait because of his missing records. High told the Navy he'd be going home. He got paid, and spent the war years in the Pacific on a number of ships. Clara could not recall their names but said he was often in combat situations.

In 1945, with the war over, John was transferred to the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. There he met Clara, a WAVE, who had joined the Navy from Alexandria. They married in 1945. He was the chief commissaryman at Great Lakes until his discharge in 1947.

The couple came back to Alexandria to make their home. John worked at a number of jobs including Stellite in Alexandria. He was transferred by that company to Kokomo and retired from there in 1984.

The couple had two sons, Charles, who served with the Army as an MP, in El Paso, Texas, and Phillip, who also joined the Army and spent time in Korea.

During the years where the war retreated into memory, John and Clara frequently went to reunions of survivors of the USS Oklahoma. There the stories and memories flowed. A compartment full of men had sunk with the ship, but in the shallow waters of Pearl Harbor they had made enough noise to be heard. When they were rescued by divers, they had spent time in pitch black darkness with water up to their necks. Then there was a priest aboard from Dubuque, Iowa, who rescued many men by forcing them out of a small porthole into the water. The priest had perished, however, as he was too large to fit through the opening.

Clara said that attending the survivors' reunions was like getting together with family. One reunion took place in Hawaii and a survivor from Mississippi was told by his doctor that his health wouldn't allow such a long trip. He told the doctor he'd rather be dead in Pearl Harbor than alive in Gulfport. He went and he returned.

The last reunion the Highs attended was in, aptly enough, Oklahoma City in 1990. Because of John's illness they did not attend the 1991 reunion, and will likely miss the 1992 get-together in Norfolk, Va.

But the memories and heroic actions of men under extreme conditions remain as an inspiration to us all. As VFW Commander Bill Tankersley said at Saturday's ceremony, "America answered the call and the rest is history."

The USS Arizona remains at the bottom of Pearl Harbor, a memorial to that day of infamy, and a reminder that we live in a volatile, unpredictable world. And what of the USS Oklahoma? She was raised and was going to be repaired. But as tugboats were pulling her out to sea, the lines broke and the ship sank again. The Navy let her rest. It was her men, not herself, that answered the call 50 years ago. John High was one of those men.

Thursday, December 04, 2008

Nathan C. Beals, Probate Judge

While searching at Google Book Search, I found an interesting tidbit about my maternal 5th great grandfather, Nathan C. Beals (1789-1867). Nathan was mentioned in the book, Courts and Lawyers of Indiana by Leander John Monks, Logan Esarey, and Ernest Vivian Shockley. The book was published by Federal Pub. Co., in 1916 and was digitized from the Harvard University.

The mention on page 751 states, "Nathan C. Beals was the first Probate Judge (1844-46) of Howard county. He was a plain, good natured, unsophisticated farmer, and a man of average intellect. Benjamin Lesoura, who succeeded Beals, was an honest, upright and industrious citizen, and a farmer by occupation. Nathan C. Beals was elected to succeeded Judge Lesoura, and he, in turn, was followed by Robert Ervin, who served until the office was abolished."

At the time that he served, the county was known as Richardville county. Howard county was organized out of the Miami Reservation as Richardville county by act of the Indiana State Legislature on January 15, 1844. On December 28, 1846 the name of the county was changed to Howard by another act of the State Legislature.

Nathan appears in the 1850 census of Howard county in Taylor township with his occupation listed as a millwright, age 61, birthplace unknown. The 1860 census of Howard county shows his age as 70, born in Tennessee. Nathan was born 1789-9mo-3rd within the confines of Lost Creek Monthly Meeting, Jefferson County, Tennessee. He died 1867-9mo-5d in Humboldt, Richardson Co., Nebraska.

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Ambitious Project

Yesterday I began the rather ambitious project of transcribing the newspapers of Alexandria found in the Alexandria-Monroe Public Library. The history room has the Alexandria Times-Tribune starting with March 1, 1905. The Times began in 1885 and merged with the Tribune (began in 1898) in 1903 to become the Times-Tribune. Most of my maternal ancestry was in the Alexandria area at that time, and my hope is that by embarking on this project I will discover new data about my family.

Alexandria was a booming place in those early days due to the discovery of natural gas. The town was settled in 1836. By 1890, the population was only 715 but by 1900 the population had grown to 7,221, of which 1005 were foreign born, according to the 1910 Encyclopedia Britannica. Population growth of over 700 percent was a direct result of the numerous factories that at one time existed in the area.

I will be posting the articles that I transcribe to the INMADISO-L mailing list at Rootsweb. This is a mailing list dedicated to those seeking information about their families from Madison County, Indiana. The activity on the list has been rather slow lately, but hopefully my postings will not only help another researcher but also stimulate discussion traffic on the list.

At another county mailing list I subscribe to a similar project there by an individual has greatly increased the knowledge of the county and its people and has helped my research. My goal is to be able to give someone else a clue or a nugget as I do my own digging.

My goal is to try to work on this at least one lunch hour per week and see how that goes.