Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: Charles D. Pierce (1918-1991)

Charles D. Pierce (1918-1991) 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

          Charles was born July 2, 1918 in Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not yet have a copy of his 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 newspaper accounts for mention of Charles' birth.  The Alexandria-Monroe Public Library has newspapers from the early 1900s.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          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 the hopes that one does exist.

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

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

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Charles was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Charles married Nancy L. Stephens.  The date of this marriage is currently unknown.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Once I obtain the exact date of their marriage, I can search contemporary newspaper accounts for mention of their nuptials.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Once I obtain the exact date of their marriage, I can search contemporary newspaper accounts for mention of any anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication of a divorce, but a thorough search of court records in Madison County, Indiana would need to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Charles died August 23, 1991 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana1.  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

               Charles's obituary appeared in the August 24, 1991 edition of the Anderson Herald-Bulletin1.   Will need to search other contemporary newspapers to see if mention was made of his obituary.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               According to his obituary, funeral arrangements were handled by the Noffze funeral home in Alexandria, Indiana.  Will need to check with the funeral home to see if they have any additional records.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Charles' tombstone in the Park View Cemetery in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana has been photographed.  

               A link to his memorial page at Find A Grave can be found here.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

               On May 3, 1940, Charles was enumerated in the William Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana2 as Charles Pierce, age 21, son.  He was not married.  He had not attended school within the year and had completed four years of high school.  He was a farm laborer.  He was born in Indiana and his residency in 1935 was the same location.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 24, 1930, Charles was enumerated in the William Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana3, as Charles D. Pierce, son, age 11, born in Indiana.  He had attended school within the year and could read and write.  His father was born in Indiana and his mother was born in Kentucky.

               On May 6, 1930, Charles was enumerated in the Herman Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana4, as Charles Pierce, half brother, age 12, born in Indiana.  He had attended school within the year and could read and write.  Both of his parents were listed as being born in Indiana.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 23, 1920, Charles was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana5, as Charles D. Pierce, son, age 2 5/12, born in Indiana.  His father was born in Indiana and his mother was 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

          I have not discovered any draft registration records for Charles.

     3.2. Pension Records

          I do not know if Charles ever applied for a pension based on his service during World War II.

     3.3. Service Records

          Charles enlisted February 5, 1942 as a private at Fort Benjamin Harrison6.  He was single, without dependents and had completed four years of high school.

          According to his obituary, Charles served during World War II in the Army Air Corps1.  I have not yet obtained a copy of his service record.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Madison County, Indiana to see what records might mention Charles and his 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 to my search for the Pierce family.

5. Supplemental Records

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

1. Charles D. Pierce obituary, Anderson Herald-Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, 24 August 1991.
2. 1940 U.S. census, Madison County, Indiana, population schedule, Monroe Township, enumeration district 48-58, SD 11, sheet 8B, dwelling 166, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 12 December 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
3. 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.
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. 
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.
6. "U.S. World War II Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946," database, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 13 December 2013); citing National Archives and Records Administration.


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.

Monday, December 16, 2013

More Wright Deeds Clermont County Ohio

Researching at the Genealogy Center, I located the following Wright family records in Clermont County Ohio Deeds and Mortgages 1791-1830 an index by Alma Aicholtz Smith, 1991.  Will be writing to the Clermont County Recorder to obtain copies of these:

1808  Wright, George to Wright, Sarah (mother)                Book F-05:397    Acres? Pleas Twp.

1807 Wright, John to Haines, Joseph                                       Book E-04:359    Lot # 120 Wmsburgh

1807 Wright, John to Jamison, Robert B                                 Book F-05:303    4 lots Wmsburgh

1804 Wright, John to Bunting, Ramoth                                    Book C-02:195   # 192, 194 Wmsburgh

1821 Wright, Joseph to Whetstone, John Sr.                        Book V-20:013   60a S-1115

1819 Wright, Joseph to Lewis, William                                     Book U-19:060   Mortgage 60a

1823 Wright, Robert to Hare, Thomas                                     Book V-20:411 Lots Miami Twp

1812 Wright, Sarah to Wright, George (son)                         Book K-09:064  A? Pleasant Twp

1819 Wright, William to Evans, Griffith                                    Book T-18:147    Lot # 88 Mechburgh



Sunday, December 15, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: Cloyd J. Pierce (1916-1962)

Cloyd J. Pierce (1916-1962) 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

          Cloyd was born May 22, 1916 in Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not yet have a copy of his 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 newspaper accounts for mention of Cloyd's birth.  The Alexandria-Monroe Public Library has newspapers from the early 1900s.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          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 Cloyd.  The Pierce family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Cloyd was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Cloyd married Anna M. Robertson on June 12, 1937 in Libertyville, Indiana.  I do not yet have 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 Cloyd and Anna's nuptials.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Cloyd and Anna's 25th wedding anniversary would have been June 12, 1962.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of any anniversary celebration.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication of divorce, but a thorough search of Madison County, Indiana court records would need to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Cloyd died December 30, 1962, in Anderson, Madison County, Indiana1.  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

                Cloyd's obituary appeared in the December 31, 1962 edition of the Anderson Daily Bulletin1.

                Will need to search other contemporary newspaper accounts to see if I can locate additional obituaries.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

                According to his obituary, the funeral arrangements were handled by the Karl M. Kyle Funeral home in Alexandria, Indiana.  Will need to check with the funeral home to see if they have any additional records regarding Cloyd's funeral.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Cloyd is buried in the Parkview Cemetery in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana.  I do not have a photograph of his tombstone.  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. 1940 Federal Census

               On April 24, 1940, Cloyd was enumerated as the head of household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana2 as Cloyd Pierce, age 23, Farmer.  He was renting his home.  He had completed four years of high school.  His residence in 1935 was Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana.  

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 24, 1930, Cloyd was enumerated in the William Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana3, as Cloyd J. Pierce, son, age 13, born in Indiana.  He had attended school within the year.  He could read and write and speak English.  His father was born in Indiana and his mother was born in Kentucky.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

                On January 23, 1920, Cloyd was enumerated in William F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana4, as Cloyd Pierce, son, age 4 years and 7 months.  He was born in Indiana, his 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 census records to see what light they might shed on the Pierce family farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          I have not discovered any draft registration records for Cloyd.

     3.2. Pension Records

          I am not aware of any military service by Cloyd or his father that would have made him eligible for this benefit.

     3.3. Service Records

          I have not discovered any military service by Cloyd.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Madison County, Indiana to see what records might mention Cloyd and his 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 to my search on the Pierce family.

5. Supplemental Records

     Supplemental records available to search for Cloyd 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.

Sources:

1. Cloyd Pierce obituary, Anderson Daily Bulletin, Anderson, Indiana, 31 December 1962, page 6.
2. 1940 U.S. census, Madison County, Indiana, population schedule, Lafayette Township, enumeration district 48-49, SD 11, sheet 8A, dwelling 152, digital image, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 11 December 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
3. 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 T 626.
4. 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.

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.

Saturday, December 14, 2013

Robert Canaday (1777-1836), Wayne 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.

Robert Canaday (1777-1836) was the son of John Canaday and Margaret Thornburgh.  His second marriage to Sarah Sumner (1788-1865) on September 15, 1827 in Wayne County, Indiana was found in the database.  Prior to this find, I did not have the date or place of their marriage.  Sarah was the sister of Robert's first wife, Amy.


"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/27VG-M5R : accessed 08 Dec 2013), Robert Canaday and Sarah Sumner, 1827.
Robert was my maternal 2nd cousin 7 times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Beals and Sarah Bowater.  Robert died August 5, 1836 in Wayne County, Indiana.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Tax Protest : Salamonia, Jay County, Indiana, 1887


Portland Commerical, Portland, Indiana, March 3, 1887, page 1


SALAMONIA

Ed. Comeercial [sic] : -  This day closes February, and it will be long be remembered as one of the most unfavorable for work and business ever experienced in Jay county.  The bad weather and other things that I will mention in this letter, has completely taken possession of the people in this, Madison, and Noble township.  The County Commissioners, on the 3d day of this month, in special session, made a levy of 100 per cent. on the tax payers along the Bellfountain and Salem pike.  This added to the first estimate, making a tax that is ruinous to the farming interests.  The tax on the first quarter mile is five to six dollars per acre, and in proportion as it goes back.  There was a meeting of tax payers held in Brake & Beard's Hall, the 16th, for the purpose of counseling as to the best course to pursue, in order to secure relief from such oppression.

The meeting was largely attended, resulting in the appointing of a committee of five of the tax payers, as follows: Esq. Birkhammer, David Banta, L.W. Lemaster, D.W. Atkinson, and Dr. Morehouse, who were to go to Portland, and examine all records, and take counsel as to the best thing to do, and report at an adjourned meeting, to be held the 24th.  This committee reported at the last named meeting, with an itemized report, which shows beyond a doubt that "there is something rotten in Denmark."  N. McCoy bid this pike off for $ 12,999.  The records show that he has been allowed over $ 18,000.  After allowing him this, and as liberal for everything pertaining to the pike, there are from six to eight thousand dollars they are asking the tax payers to pay into the treasury that the committee could not find out what would be done with it.  The committee finds a contract signed by two commissioners, but not the engineer.  This contract is on file, but not on record; the Auditor stating that it was not a proper document for record, as it was not properly signed.  Following the committee's report, there was another committee appointed to take proper steps to bring it before the courts and see if there is any relief for us.

There is almost a universal uprising.  The feeling here is, that men who hold office must hue to the line, if they want the respect and support of the people.  The acts of our new commissioner will be examined with others, and if he is wabbling, he had better straighten up or get out of the way.  There will be a cyclone overtake some of the boys if they don't look sharp.  The pike has never been completed; it is the poorest excuse for a pike there is in Jay county.  In order to comply with the specifications, it would take 1 1/2 yards to the rod for the entire line.  If there is no relief from such oppresions as this, we will go west and grow up with the country.

TAX PAYER.

----
Apparently, my paternal 2nd-great grandfather, Luman Walker Lemasters (1842-1931), was part of a group of tax protesters in the Salamonia area upset at the high tax levied by the Jay County Commissioners in 1887.  Luman was a farmer, whose taxes were definitely affected by the tax increase.


Thursday, December 12, 2013

Margaret Canaday (1797-1871), Wayne 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.

Margaret Canaday (1797-1871) was the daughter of Charles Canaday and Sarah Russell.  Her marriage to James Harvey on October 12, 1820 in Wayne County, Indiana was located in the database.  Prior to this find, I had a different date for their marriage.  


"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/27VL-BTR : accessed 08 Dec 2013), James Harvey and Margaret Canaday, 1820.
Margaret was my maternal 3rd cousin 6 times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Beals and Sarah Bowater.  I have not traced any more on their family as of yet.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Wright Deeds Clermont County Ohio

Researching at the Genealogy Center, I located the following Wright family records in Clermont County Ohio Deeds and Mortgages 1791-1830 an index by Alma Aicholtz Smith, 1991.  Will be writing to the Clermont County Recorder to obtain copies of these:

1814       Wright, George from Hicks, Moses                                          Book M-11:135                  Evans Run

1807       Wright, George from Vanmeter, Joseph decd adm          Book F-05:320                    Acres? Pleasant Twp

1812       Wright, George (son) from Wright, Sarah (widow)            Book K-09:064                   A?  Pleasant Twp

This appears to be my ancestor George Wright (1780-1855), son of John and Sarah (Fleming) Wright.

1820       Wright, James B. from Tibbs, William                                       Book T-18:325                    Power of Attorney

I do not know yet how this James B. Wright fits in with my family.

1807       Wright, John from  Corbly, John by TxC                                  Book E-04:366                    Lot # 109 Wmsburgh

1807       Wright, John from Fisher, Maddon by TxC                            Book E-04:370                    Outlot # 9 Wmsburgh

1807       Wright, John from Frazee, Jacob by TxC                                 Book E-04:368                    Lot # 383 Wmsburgh

1804       Wright, John from Lytle, William                                                Book C-02:202                   Lot # 120 Wmsburgh

1807       Wright, John from Montgomery, James by TxC                  Book E-04:364                    Lot # 317 Wmsburgh

1803       Wright, John from Sinks, Nicholas                                             Book C-02:101                   Lot # 192, 194 Wmsburgh

1807       Wright, John from Tax Collector, Wms Twp                          Book E-04:368                    Lot # 383 Wmsburgh

1807       Wright, John from Tax Collector, Wms Twp                          Book E-04:364                    Lot # 317 Wmsburgh

1807       Wright, John from Tax Collector, Wms Twp                          Book E-04:370                    Outlot # 9 Wmsburgh

1807       Wright, John from Tax Collector, Wms Twp                          Book E-04:366                    Lot # 109 Wmsburgh

1804       Wright, John, assignee from Lytle, William                            Book C-02:176                   Lot # 121 Wmsburgh

These records refer to my ancestor, John Wright (1755-1810)

1819       Wright, Joseph from Broadwell, Moses                                 Book S-17:264                    16a         S-3856

1806       Wright, Joseph from Brown, Joel                                              Book E:04-072                    10 lots Wmsburgh

1813       Wright, Joseph from Huber, Jacob                                           Book K-09:033                   Quitclaim lots

1820       Wright, Joseph from Lewis, William                                         Book U-19:119                   Mtg 186a S-1115

1819       Wright, Joseph from Lewis, William                                         Book S-17:262                    66a S-1115

Not sure just yet how this Joseph Wright fits in with my family.

1811       Wright, Robert from Massie, Nathaniel                                  Book H-07:065                   209a  Straight Cr

This record refers to Robert Wright (1757-1840), brother of my ancestor, John Wright.

1808       Wright, Sarah (mother) from Wright, George                      Book F-05:397                    Acres? Pleas Twp

This record refers to my ancestor Sarah (Fleming) Wright and son George Wright (1780-1855)

1818       Wright, William M et al from Bagby, Robert                          Book R-16:204                   Lot #88 Mechburgh

Not sure just yet how this William M. Wright fits into my family.




Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Lyndsey Canaday (1829-1920), Wayne 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.

Lyndsey Canaday (1829-1920), was the son of Robert Canaday and Sarah Sumner.  His marriage license to Mary Elizabeth Gibson on October 27, 1856 in Wayne County, Indiana was found in the database.  There was no return of the marriage.  Prior to this find, I did not have any potential dates for their marriage. Lyndsey's surname is also spelled Kennedy in the record.


"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/27VG-RGB : accessed 08 Dec 2013), Lindsay Kennedy and Mary E Gibson, .
Lyndsey was my maternal 3rd cousin 6 times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Beals and Sarah Bowater.  Lyndsey and Mary raised four children in Wayne County, Indiana.  

Monday, December 09, 2013

Wardlow Deeds Clermont County Ohio

Researching at the Genealogy Center, I located the following Wardlow family records in Clermont County Ohio Deeds and Mortgages 1791-1830 an index by Alma Aicholtz Smith, 1991.  Will be writing to the Clermont County Recorder to obtain copies of these:

1815 Wardlow, Joseph to Wardlow, Robert          Book N-12:025   289acres Life estate

1817 Wardlow, Robert to Wardlow, William decd heirs   Book P-14:140 373 5/8acres

1815 Wardlow, Robert to Wardlow, Samuel         Book M-11:379  150acres White Oak Creek

1806 Wardlow, Robert to Wardlow, John              Book F-05:211 200acres White Oak Creek

The Robert Wardlow is my ancestor, Robert Wardlaw (c1745-1820) a Revolutionary War veteran from Rockbridge County, Virginia.  He was married to Janet Downey.   The William, Samuel and John mentioned were all his children, as was Joseph, who appeared to be granting Robert land in 1815.  

Will be writing off for copies of these deeds.

Sunday, December 08, 2013

Greene Township Teacher's Institute, Jay County, Indiana, 1874

Jay County Granger, Portland, Indiana, February 5, 1874, page 3.





Teachers Institute

Green Township Teacher's Institute convened at Union school house No. 8, January 17, 1874.

Superintendent Bell took the Chair, after which Jesse A. Smith was chosen Secretary and A.J. Haynes Critic.  Roll called, Teachers present : D.M. Bunch, R.A. Bunch, W.P. Hiatt, A.J. Haynes, T.C. Stephenson, J. Lemaster, and J.A. Smith.  The township Trustee, and a goodly number of Patrons was present.

---
My paternal 2nd-great granduncle, Jacob Lemasters (1845-1922), the son of Rev. Luman Walker and Nancy (Young) Lemasters, was a teacher in Jay County for a number of years before relocating to Valley County, Nebraska.

Saturday, December 07, 2013

Wardlow & Wright Guardianships, Clermont County, Ohio

During my last visit to the Genealogy Center, I located the book Clermont County Ohio Wills, Estates & Guardianships, 1800-1851 an index by Aileen Whitt of New Richland, Ohio, 1986 which contained some information relative to my Wardlow and Wright ancestors.  The surname Wardlaw became Wardlow when they moved into Ohio, and both are alternative spellings.

Page 191 – March 1813 Common Pleas Court  Book B-64
               
                Wardlow, James               guardianship
                Wardlow, Jane                  guardianship
                Wardlow, Mary                 guardianship
                Wardlow, Matilda            guardianship
                Wardlow, Philander        guardianship
                Wardlow, Robert             guardianship
                Wardlow, Samuel            guardianship

These were all the children of William Wardlaw (1771-1812) and Isabel Nesbit.  William was killed during the War of 1812.

Page 191 – December 1817 Common Pleas Court Book C-152

                Wardlow, Samuel            estate

Page 191 – July 1818 Common Pleas Court Book C-367

                Wardlow, Samuel            estate

Page 191 – March 1818 Common Pleas Court Book C-344

                Wardlow, Samuel            estate

Not sure just yet which Samuel this might be, but all these cases are probably related.  Will have to request the records to find out.

Page 191 – November 1812 Common Pleas Court B-4

                Wardlow, William             estate

Page 191 – August 1814 Common Pleas Court Book B-248

                Wardlow, William             estate

Page 191 – Jun 1819 Probate Court Will Book B-330

                Wardlow, William             estate

Page 192 – Probate Court Microfilm Book 6-875

                Wardlow, William             estate

Page 192 – August 1814 Common Pleas Book B-293

                Wardlow, William             estate

Page 192 – March 1814 Common Pleas Book B-229

                Wardlow, William             estate

Page 192 – March 1813 Probate Court Will Book A-75

                Wardlow, William             estate

Page 192 – Probate Court Microfilm Book 8-1604

                Wardlow, William             estate

These three all likely relate to William Wardlaw (1771-1812), killed during the War of 1812.

Page 205 – October 1824 Probate Court Will Book C-284

                Wright, George                 estate

Page 205 – Probate Court Microfilm Book 6-918

                Wright, George                 estate

I’m not sure how this George Wright might be related to my family.  Will have to request the records to find out.

Page 205 – August 1814 Common Pleas Book B-247

                Zumwalt, Henry                estate

Page 205 – August 1814 Common Pleas Book B-286

                Zumwalt, Henry                estate

Page 205 – March 1819 Probate Will Book B-301

                Zumwalt, Henry                estate

Page 205 – November 1815 Common Pleas Book B-539

                Zumwalt, Henry                estate

Page 205 – September 1814 Probate Will Book A-232

                Zumwalt, Henry                estate

Page 205 – early 1818 Probate Will Book B-170

                Zumwalt, Henry                estate

Page 205 – August 1814 Probate Will Book A-193

                Zumwalt, Henry                estate

Henry Zumwalt was the husband of Martha Wardlaw (1776-1855).  He was a colonel of the Ohio Militia during the War of 1812.

Friday, December 06, 2013

Teachers Institute, December 27, 1873, Jay County, Indiana

Jay County Granger, Portland, Indiana, January 15, 1874, page 4
AFTERNOON SESSION

Penmanship by T.W. Fields, subject, Spacing and Shading, giving the standard measure for spacing, giving the distance between letters, words and sentences.  Thinks he would not teach beginner shading on account of blotting theis books.  Physiology, T.W. Fields. Gave a description of the circulation.  Mr. J. Lemaster, conducted a recitation in History.  Has pupils to arise and give all the events relating to some particular period, other members arise, correct all mistakes and give additional thoughts, omitted by the first.  Sometimes has pupils to read the lesson before reciting.  Remarks on the subject by McLaughlin also by Walters, and Whitsel.  Remarks by the Trustee, does not approve of History taking the place of readers in the school.  Recess.

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This article recites how Jacob Lemasters (1845-1922), son of Rev. Luman Walker and Nancy (Young) Lemasters, gave a presentation as a history teacher at the Teachers Institute held December 27, 1873 at School House No. 4 in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana.  Jacob was my paternal 2nd-great granduncle.

Thursday, December 05, 2013

Teachers Institute Program, Jay County, Indiana, 1874

Jay County Granger, Portland, Indiana, January 15, 1874, page 2


Programme prepared for our next Teachers Institute; Orthography by Miss E.E. Adair.  Reading by Mr. R.A. Bunch.  Writing by Mr. W.P. Hiatt. Arithmetic by Mr. Jacob Lemaster.  Noon recess.  Geography by Mr. D.M. Bunch.  History by Mr. J.A. Smith.  Physiology by Mr. A.E Bunch.  English Grammar by Mrs. A.J. Hays.  Duty of parents by Mr. T.C. Stephenson; general discussion, school government.

Jacob Lemaster, chairman  John W. Mason, secretary.

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Another article regarding the school teacher career of Jacob Lemasters (1845-1922), son of Rev. Luman Walker and Nancy (Young) Lemasters.

Wednesday, December 04, 2013

Report of County Teacher's Institute, Jay County, Indiana 1873

Jay County Granger, Portland, Indiana, December 4, 1873, page 2.

Report of County Teacher's Institute

Liber, Ind. Nov. 17.

....

Mr. J. Lemaster gave his method of constructing and arranging a school house.

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Another report of Jacob Lemasters (1845-1922), son of Rev. Luman Walker and Nancy (Young) Lemasters, who taught school in Jay County.  An earlier article indicated that he taught in Greene Township.

Tuesday, December 03, 2013

Marriage Notice : William Wilson to Jane Lemaster, Jay County, Indiana 1873

Portland Democrat, Portland, Indiana, November 20, 1873, page 2.


BOUNDARY CITY ITEMS

...

The matrimonial market has been lively since our last, and stock has gone up, we quote - on Thursday 13th inst. Mr. Chris Runkle, of Madison township, to Miss Matilda Bickle, of Pike township, and on the same day by Rev Philip Lemaster, Mr. William Wilson, of Pike, to Miss Jane Lemaster, of Madison.  We think the boys have made a fair exchange and provided themselves with warm comforters, may theirs be a happy lot, and they never regret the day they started on their matrimonial voyages.

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The Jane Lemaster mentioned is Phebe Jane Lemasters (1847-     ), daughter of Rev. Luman Walker and Nancy (Young) LeMasters.  The minister, Philip Lemasters (1836-1915) was her older brother.  William and Jane lived in Pike and Jackson Township, Jay County, Indiana after their marriage. 

Monday, December 02, 2013

Rebecca Sills (1844-1922), Wabash 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.

Rebecca Sills (1844-1922) was the daughter of George Sills and Mary Grimes.  Her second marriage to Henry Bussard on October 25, 1877 in Wabash County, Indiana was located in the database. Her first husband was Isaiah Landis.  Prior to the find, I did not have any documentation for their marriage.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/27KG-Y2F : accessed 23 Nov 2013), Henry Bussard and Rebecca Landis, 1877.
Rebecca was Eileen's maternal 2nd-great grandaunt.  Her common ancestors were George Sills and Mary Grimes.  Rebecca died January 7, 1922 in Wells County, Indiana.

Sunday, December 01, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: William McClellan Pierce (1913-1978)

William McClellan Pierce (1913-1978) 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

          McClellan was born March 17, 1913 in Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not yet have a copy of his 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 newspaper accounts for mention of McClellan's birth.  The Alexandria-Monroe Public Library has newspapers from the early 1900s.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          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 McClellan.  The Pierce family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that McClellan was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          McClellan married Geneva Ruth Aldridge sometime between 1930 and 1933, probably in Madison County, Indiana.  I do not yet have a copy of their marriage license.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items on my next research trip.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Once I've obtained the exact date of their marriage, I can search contemporary newspaper accounts for mention of their nuptials.

          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 there was mention of any anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

                There is no indication of any divorce, but a thorough search of Madison County, Indiana court records would need to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          McClellan died November 24, 1978 in Anderson, Madison County, Indiana1.  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

               McClellan's obituary appeared in the November 26, 1978 edition of the Anderson, Indiana Herald-Bulletin1.  I have not yet transcribed this obituary for this blog.  Will need to add this to my "to-do" items.

               Will need to research other local newspapers to see if mention was also made of his obituary.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Will need to check with the records of the funeral home to see if they have any additional information regarding McClellan's funeral.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               McClellan's tombstone in the Park View Cemetery in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana2 has been photographed.

               A link to his memorial page at the FindAGrave website is here.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

               On April 16, 1940, McClellan appears as head of household in Ward 1, Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana3 as McClinnin Pierce, age 26, married, born in Indiana.  He had completed 1 year of college.  His residence in 1935 was on a farm in Alexandria, Indiana.  He owned his own home, valued at $2500.  His occupation was listed as a laborer in an auto factory.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 23, 1930, McClellan was enumerated in the William Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana4 as William M. Pierce, son, age 17.  He had attended school within the year and could read and write and speak English.  He was born in Indiana, his father born in Indiana and mother born in Kentucky.  

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 23, 1920, McClellan was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Frankton, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana5, as McClellan, son, age 6.  He had attended school within the year, could read and write and speak English.  He was born in Indiana, his father was born in Indiana and his 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

          I have not discovered any draft registration records for McClellan.

     3.2. Pension Records

          I am not aware of any military service by McClellan or his father that would have made him eligible for this benefit.

     3.3. Service Records

          I have not discovered any military service by McClellan.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Madison County, Indiana to see what records might mention McClellan and his 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 research for McClellan 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.

Sources:

1. Anderson, Indiana, Herald Bulletin, November 26, 1978.
2. FindAGrave, Inc., FindAGrave.com (www.findagrave.com : accessed 30 November 2013).
3. 1940 U.S. census, Madison County, Indiana, population schedule, Ward 1, Alexandria, enumeration district 48-52, SD 11, sheet 61A, dwelling 114; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 30 November 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
4. 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.
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.

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.