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.

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.

----
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.

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.

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

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.

---

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.

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.

----

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. 

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.

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.

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

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

GREEN TOWNSHIP ITEMS

by Hoosier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good health and plenty of work; money scarce.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cummings Family Winston County, Alabama

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Nehersta was born January 4, 1910 in Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not yet have a copy of her birth certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspapers for mention of Nehersta's birth.  The Alexandria-Monroe Public Library has newspapers from the early 1900s.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

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

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

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

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Nehersta was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

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

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

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

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

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

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

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

     1.3. Death Certificate

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

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

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

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

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

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

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

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

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

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

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

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

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

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

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

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

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

     2.2. State Census Records

          The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1877, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913, 1919 and 1921.  These, however, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

          I have not yet investigated these types of records to see what light they might shed on the Pierce family farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Nehersta was female.

     3.2. Pension Records

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

     3.3. Service Records

           Not applicable, as Nehersta was female.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

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

     4.2. Plat map / county map

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

5. Supplemental Records

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

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

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.

Research Trip to Ft. Wayne

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

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

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

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

Exploratory Data Analysis: Lillian Pierce (1902-1921)

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

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

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

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Lillian's birth was mentioned in the newspaper, it has been lost to history.  The Alexandria-Monroe Library has newspaper holdings from the early 1900s.  The holdings of the Indiana State Library in Indianapolis do not indicate any newspapers of the time period.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

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

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

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

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Lillian was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          There is no indication that Lillian was ever married.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Not applicable.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Not applicable.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               Not applicable.

     1.3. Death Certificate

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

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

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

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

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

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

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

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

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1920 Federal Census

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

          2.1.2. 1910 Federal Census

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

     2.2. State Census Records

          The State of Indiana conducted state census in 1853, 1857, 1871, 1877, 1883, 1889, 1901, 1913, 1919 and 1931.  These, however, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

          I have not yet investigated these types of records to see what light they might shed on the Pierce family farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Lillian was female.

     3.2. Pension Records

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

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable, as Lillian was female.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

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

     4.2. Plat map / county map

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

5. Supplemental Records

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

Sources :

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

This post was developed as part of the series relating to Building My 2011 Research Template, an attempt to systematically document and source the details of my ancestors' lives. Comments regarding this template and the conclusions drawn in this article are welcomed.