Alleged Embezzler Arrested : James Orcutt (1893)

Jeffersonville News, April 29, 1893 page 1

Alleged Embezzler Arrested

Portland, April 29 – James Orcutt, of whom it is alleged that he embezzled $ 4,000, has been arrested at Dunkirk.

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This is James ORCUTT (1856-1925) who was married to Samantha E. METZNER (1857-1890) on May 12, 1878 in Jay County, Indiana.  Samantha was the daughter of John and Catherine (YOUNG) METZNER, making her my paternal 2nd-great grandaunt.

James and Samantha had 4 children : George, Lena, Mamie and Melvin.  James later remarried in December 1893 to Nancy MAYO in Muncie, Delaware County, Indiana.  I wonder if this court case was still hanging over him when they married.

Looks like I have some more research to do when I head to the Jay County courthouse.

Bear Creek Township Sunday School Celebration, Jay County, Indiana, 1899

Portland Daily Commercial
Portland, Indiana
August 28, 1899, page 1

Sunday School Celebration

The fourth annual celebration of the Sunday schools of Bear Creek township will be held in Phillip Stolz's grove, one mile south of Westchester, and one mile east of the Emanual [sic] church, on Saturday, September 2.

It is desired and expected that each Sunday school in the township be represented.

Everybody invited to come and bring your baskets well filled and enjoy a good time.

Isaiah Weisel, Township Pres.,

W.T. Metzner, Secretary

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Found this notice in the local newspaper that mentioned my paternal 2nd-great granduncle, Wesley T. Metzner (1855-    ), son of John and Catherine (Young) Metzner.  Apparently, Wesley was serving as the secretary of Bear Creek township Sunday school association.

Wesley was married to Mary Emma Roser and had 4 children. 

Metzner Sole Bidder to Repair Green Township Bridge, Jay County, 1899

Portland Daily Commercial
Portland, Indiana
September 11, 1899, page 1.

The only bid received for the repair of a bridge in Green township was that of W.T. Metzner, and some little question arose because it was not accompanied by a bond, an attorney being called in for a decision.

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This snippet of local news from the Portland Daily Commercial concerns Wesley T. Metzner, my paternal 2nd-great granduncle.  He was the son of John and Catharine (Young) Metzner.  His occupation in 1910 census in Portland listed him as a contractor, which would fit with this bid.  I did not see any follow up articles whether or not he posted a performance bond for the work.

Exploratory Data Analysis : Nancy (Young) Lemasters (1812-1904)

Nancy (Young) Lemasters (1812-1904) was my paternal 3rd-great grandmother.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about her.
1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Nancy was born June 2, 1812 in Pickaway County, Ohio¹.  Census records and tombstone records consistently place her birth at this time and place^2,3,4.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Nancy's birth was mentioned in a local newspaper, it has been lost to time.  I am not aware of any surviving contemporary newspapers from the area.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

               I am not aware of any surviving Young family Bible records.  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 Nancy.  The family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church in days.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no evidence that Nancy was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Nancy married Luman Walker Lemasters on January 19, 1832 in Shelby County, Ohio⁵.  Their marriage license was the subject of a previous post.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               I have not yet searched out available newspapers from the time period to see if Luman and Nancy's nuptials were mentioned.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Luman and Nancy's 25th wedding anniversary was January 19, 1857 and their 50th anniversary was January 19, 1882.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if any mention was made of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that Luman and Nancy were ever divorced, and a search of the Jay County, Indiana court records did not produce any evidence.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Nancy died August 26, 1904 in Salamonia, Jay County, Indiana¹.  I do not have a copy of her death certificate from the Jay County Health Department.  Will add this to my list of 'to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Nancy's obituary appeared in the September 1, 1904 edition of the Portland Commercial-Review in Portland, Indiana.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Funeral home records might be available that would help in my research for Nancy.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Nancy's tombstone in the Salamonia Cemetery, Jay County, Indiana has been photographed.

               Her memorial page at FindAGrave is located here.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 4, 1900, Nancy was enumerated in the William Cunningham household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁶, as Nancy Lemasters, mother in law, white, female, born June 1812, age 87.  She was a widow, mother of 12 children, 7 of whom were living.  She was born in Ohio, and both of her parents were born in Virginia.  She could not read or write, but could speak English.

          2.1.2. 1880 Federal Census

               On June 7, 1880, Nancy was enumerated in the Luman Lemasters household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁷, as Nancy Lemasters, wife, age 67.  She was born in Ohio, and both of her parents were born in Virginia.  She could not read or write, and her occupation was listed as keeping house.

          2.1.3. 1870 Federal Census

               On August 3, 1870, Nancy was enumerated in the Luman W. Lemaster household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁸, as Nancy Lemaster, wife, age 57.  She was born in Ohio.  She could not read or write, and her occupation was listed as keeping house.

          2.1.4. 1860 Federal Census

               On June 4, 1860, Nancy was enumerated in the Luman W. Lemaster household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁹, as Nancy Lemasters, age 48, born in Ohio.  She could not read or write.

          2.1.5. 1850 Federal Census

               On September 25, 1850, Nancy was enumerated in the L.W. Lemasters household in Salem Township, Shelby County, Ohio¹⁰

, as Nancy Lemasters, age 38, born in Ohio. She had attended school within the year.
          2.1.6. 1840 Federal Census

               Nancy was likely the white female between the age of 20 and 30 in the Luman W. Lamasters household enumerated on June 1, 1840 in Salem Township, Shelby County, Ohio¹¹.

     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,Ihowever, were merely for the purposes of legislative apportionment.

          No state census records in Ohio are known to exist.

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

          I have not yet examined these types of census records to see what light they might shed on the Lemaster farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Nancy was female.

     3.2. Pension Records

          I am not aware of any military service by her husband that would make Nancy eligible for pension benefits.  Her father, Philip Young, was a veteran of the War of 1812.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable, as Nancy was female.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

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

     4.2. Plat map / county map

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

5. Supplemental Records

     Supplemental records to research for Nancy 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. Young, L.I.C. Biography of the Young Family 1759-1904, Fremont, Ohio: Fremont Printing Co., 1904, p. 50.
2. Lemaster, Howard M. & Margaret Herberger, "Lemasters, U.S.A., 1639-1965", Carlinville, IL, 1965, p. 195.
3. Luman W. Lemaster household, 1860 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, Salamonia P.O., page 2, dwelling 10, family 10; National Archives micropublication M563, roll 269.
4. William Cunningham household, 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Township, ED 62, SD 8, sheet 3, dwelling 48, family 49; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 380.
5. "Ohio, County Marriages, 1789-1994," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XZVP-THV : accessed 06 Feb 2014), Luman W Lemaster and Nancy Young, 19 Jan 1832; citing Shelby, Ohio, United States, reference 64; FHL microfilm 562857.
6. William Cunningham household, 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Township, ED 62, SD 8, sheet 3, dwelling 48, family 49; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 380.
7. 1880 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Township, enumeration district 161, SD 6, page 6, dwelling 52, family 53; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 26 February 2014); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
8. 1870 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Salamonia P.O., page 31, dwelling 231, family 234; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 March 2014); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
9. Luman W. Lemaster household, 1860 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, Salamonia P.O., page 2, dwelling 10, family 10; National Archives micropublication M563, roll 269.
10. L.W. Lemasters household, 1850 U.S. census, population schedule, Salem Township, Shelby County, Ohio, dwelling 109, family 109; National Archives micropublication M432, roll 729.
11. 1840 U.S. census, Shelby County, Ohio, population schedule, Salem Township, page 101, Luman W. Lamasters, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 5 March 2014); National Archives, Washington, D.C.


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.

Obituary : Fern (Metzner) Doty (1897-1917)

Evangelical Messenger, October 17, 1917, page 2

Fern Doty, daughter of Rev. J.W. Metzner, and wife of Clifford F. Doty, fell asleep one day after her 20th birthday and lay in her casket on her second wedding anniversary.  Born Sept. 3, 1897, she departed Sept. 4, 1917.  Nurtured in an Evangelical parsonage she early received the best Christian training and at the age of 9 years was converted to God and united with our church.  Upon moving to Elkhart, she became a member of First church.  For 6 years she served in the capacity of pianist.  One daughter preceded her to the better world 4 months ago.  She was a dutiful, modest and highly respected young woman.  The Revs. Walmer, Roberts, Mygrant, D.D. Spangler assisted the undersigned in the obsequies.     E.W. Praetorius.

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Fern (Metzner) Doty was my paternal second cousin twice removed, the daughter of John W. Metzner.  Our common ancestors were John Metzner and Catherine Young.

This obituary gave me not only her death and marriage information, but the fact that they lost a young daughter, another fact to be researched.

Exploratory Data Analysis : Luman Walker Lemasters Sr. (1808-1888)

Luman Walker Lemasters Sr. (1808-1888) was my paternal 3rd-great grandfather.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data  have discovered about him.

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Luman was born March 11, 1808¹ in Mason County, Virginia (now West Virginia). Luman's birth in Virginia is noted in several successive census records.  There were no birth certificates recorded during this time period. One published genealogy cited his date of birth as February 19, 1808 in Mason County².

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Luman's birth was mentioned in a local newspaper, it has been lost to time.  I am not aware of any surviving contemporary newspapers from the area.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

               I am not aware of any surviving Lemasters family Bible records.  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 Luman.  The family were members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Luman was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Luman married January 19, 1832 in Shelby County, Ohio^2,3 to Nancy Young.    

          A copy of the marriage record was the subject of a previous post.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               I have not yet searched historical newspaper collections to see if any mention was made of Luman and Nancy's nuptials.  Will add this to my "to-do" list for future research.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Luman and Nancy's 25th wedding anniversary would have been January 19, 1857 and their 50th wedding anniversary would have been January 19, 1882.  Will need to search out newspaper collections to see if any mention was made of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that Luman and Nancy were ever divorced, though a thorough search of records in Shelby County, Ohio and Jay County, Indiana needs to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Luman died April 15, 1888 in Jay County, Indiana^{2, 4}.  His death certificate listed the cause of death as uraeumic poison (i.e. kidney failure).  His death certificate did not list the time of death or the location of his burial. 

          A copy of his death certificate was the subject of a previous post.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               A search of local newpapers from the time period did not locate an obituary for Luman.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Will need to search local funeral home records to see if they have mention of Luman's funeral.  The Jay County Historical Society has many of these records.  Will add this to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Luman's tombstone in the Salamonia Cemetery, Salamonia, Indiana has been photographed¹.


2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1880 Federal Census

               On June 7, 1880, Luman was enumerated as the head of household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁵, as Luman Lemasters, age 72, Farmer, born in Virginia.  His father and mother were both born in Pennsylvania.  Living in the household was his wife, Nancy, age 67, born in Ohio, and daughter Mary, age 25 and son John, age 24, both born in Ohio.

          2.1.2. 1870 Federal Census

               On August 3, 1870, Luman was enumerated as the head of household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁶, as Luman W. Lemaster, age 61, born in Virginia.  His occupation was listed as a farmer.  The value of his real estate was $5000 and his personal estate was $500.  He was a U.S. citizen.  Living in the household was his wife, Nancy, age 57, born in Ohio, daughter Phebe J, age 23, daughter Mary, age 21, daughter Martha J., age 18 and son John S., age 15, all born in Ohio.

          2.1.3. 1860 Federal Census

               On June 4, 1860, Luman was enumerated as the head of household in Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana⁷, as Luman W. Lemaster, age 52, Farmer.  He was born in Virginia.  The value of his real estate was $4000 and the value of his personal estate was $545.  Living in the household was his wife, Nancy, age 48, born in Ohio, son Philip, age 23, daughter Catharine, age 19, son Walker, age 17, son Jacob, age 15, daughter Phebe, age 13, daughter Mary, age 11, daughter Martha J, age 9, all born in Ohio and son John S., age 5, born in Indiana.

          2.1.4. 1850 Federal Census

               On September 25, 1850, Luman was enumerated as the head of household in Salem Township, Shelby County, Ohio⁸, as L.W. Lemasters, age 42, Farmer, born in Virginia.  Living in the household was his wife, Nancy, age 38, born in Ohio, son Philip, age 14, daughter Rachel, age 12, daughter Catharine, age 10, son L.W., age 7, son Jacob, age 6, daughter Phebe, age 4, and daughter Mary, age 1, all born in Ohio.

          2.1.5. 1840 Federal Census

                On June 1, 1840, Luman was enumerated as head of household in Salem Township, Shelby County, Ohio⁹, as Luman W. Lamasters.  There was 1 white male under 5; 1 white male between 30 and 40; 2 white females under 5 and 1 white female between 20 and 30 in the household.

     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.

          No state census records in Ohio are known to exist.

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

          I have not yet investigated these types of census records to see what light it might shed on the Lemaster farm.

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

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

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

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

     4.2. Plat map / county map

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

5. Supplemental Records

     Supplemental records to research for Luman 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. Franklin, Phyllis (Strock). Salamonia Cemeteries: Salamonia, Madison Twp., Jay County, Indiana. Portland, Indiana, USA : The Jay County Genealogy Society, 2000, page 19.
2. Young, L.I.C., Biography of the Young Family 1759-1904, Fremont, Ohio : Fremont Printing Co., 1904, page 50.
3. "Ohio, County Marriages, 1789-1994," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XZVP-THV : accessed 06 Feb 2014), Luman W Lemaster and Nancy Young, 19 Jan 1832; citing Shelby, Ohio, United States, reference 64; FHL microfilm 562857.
4. L.W. LeMasters, death certificate Book H1 page 71 (1888), Jay County Health Department, Portland, Indiana.
5. 1880 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Township, enumeration district 161, SD 8, page 8, dwelling 52, family 53; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 26 February 2014); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
6. 1870 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Madison Township, Salamonia P.O., page 31, dwelling 231, family 234; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 March 2014); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
7. Luman W. Lemaster household, 1860 U.S. census, population schedule, Madison Township, Jay County, Indiana, Salamonia P.O., page 2, dwelling 10, family 10; National Archives micropublication M563, roll 269.
8. L.W. Lemasters household, 1850 U.S. census, population schedule, Salem Township, Shelby County, Ohio, dwelling 109, family 109; National Archives micropublication M432, roll 729.
9. 1840 U.S. census, Shelby County, Ohio, population schedule, Salem Township, page 101, Luman W. Lamasters, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 5 March 2014); National Archives, Washington, D.C.


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.

Marriage Record : Luman W. Lemasters to Nancy Young, Shelby County, Ohio, 1832

Located the marriage record of my paternal 3rd-great grandfather, Luman Walker Lemasters (1808-1888) to Nancy Young (1812-1904) in Shelby County, Ohio at Familysearch.org.

"Ohio, County Marriages, 1789-1994," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XZVP-THV : accessed 06 Feb 2014), Luman W Lemaster and Nancy Young, 19 Jan 1832; citing Shelby, Ohio, United States, reference 64; FHL microfilm 562857.

This is to certify that on the 19th day of January in the year of Our Lord, 1832 Luman W. Lemasters and Nancy Young both of Shelby County were legally joined in marriage by me a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County of Shelby.  Given under my hand this 14 day of Feb. A.D. 1832     James H. Coleman J.P.

Luman was born in Mason County, Virginia (now West Virginia) in 1808 and had came to Ohio with his father, Jacob shortly after the War of 1812.  Nancy was born in Pickaway County, Ohio and moved to Shelby County with her father, Philip, sometime between 1826 and the 1830 census.

Luman's older brother, Isaac, had married a Hannah Elizabeth Coleman in 1821 in Shelby County. She was the daughter of Philip and Ann (Kelly) Coleman.  The relationship of the Justice of the Peace who married Luman and this Coleman family is not yet known.

Marriage of John Metzner and Catherine Young, Licking County, Ohio, 1839

"Ohio, County Marriages, 1789-1994," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XZHL-F6J : accessed 12 Jan 2014), John Metzner and Catherine Young, 16 Nov 1839; citing Licking, Ohio, United States, reference v.1,p.331,L.271; FHL microfilm 384300.

 



 

The State of Ohio, Licking County, ss

I do hereby certify that the marriage of John Metzner and Catherine Young of said County was solemnized by me in due form of law on the 16" Nov. 1839

Augustus Grosskards
Pastor

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Located the image of the marriage record for my paternal 3rd-great grandparents, John Metzner and Catherine Young in Licking County, Ohio.  Previously, I had the date of their marriage as November 4, 1839 from county history and November 3, 1839 from John's obituary.  This record, however, clearly notes that the wedding occurred on November 16, 1839.

Tried to Google the pastor's name to see if I could find out more about him, but was unsuccessful.  It looks like Grosskards to me, but perhaps I'm reading it incorrectly.

Obituary : John Metzner (1805-1888)

Evangelical Messenger, January 24, 1888, page 59

Located the obituary of my paternal 3rd-great grandfather, John Metzner (1805-1888), in the Evangelical Messenger, a publication of the Evangelical Association.

METZNER - John Metzner was born in Germany, October 21, 1805, came to America in 1837, located in Licking Co., O., where he continued to live until 1850, when he with his family came to Jay Co.  He was married to Catherine Young, Nov. 3, 1839, and to them were born six sons and five daughters, of whom 2 sons and one daughter have gone before him over the river of death.  He embraced the Christian religion in 1840, in which he continued to live until his death, and died in the triumphs of a living Redeemer, Jan. 10, 1888.  Father Metzner was a member of the Ev. Association, and in his death we lose a brother and a father, but that which is our loss is his gain.  Funeral services by the write, assisted by Bro. H.E. Moser.  - J.B. Fisher.

----
There are just a few anomalies in this obituary from data I already have about John.  I had his birthdate as October 2, 1805, as calculated from his tombstone, and his marriage date as November 4, 1839, but my sources were family group sheets, so are suspect.  Should be able to confirm the marriage date from Ohio marriage records.  While this obituary doesn't give a cause of death, it does state his migration pattern.

The search for John Metzner's (1805-1888) cause of death

A message from cousin Paula at Linnea's Legacy prompted me to search my files to see if I had any information regarding the cause of death of our common relative, John Metzner (1805-1888) of Jay County, Indiana.  John was a brother of Paula's ancestor, William Metzner.

John was my paternal 3rd great-grandfather, an immigrant from Saxony who showed up in Licking County, Ohio in 1839 where he married another immigrant from Alsace, Catherine Young (1819-1910).  They moved between 1848-1850 to Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana where they raised their 11 children. 

Eventually, I fully intend to do a working analysis of John's information, but right now I have his date of death as January 10, 1888 in Jay County, Indiana, aged 82.  My Rootsmagic database shows two sources cited for his death, one a family group sheet from Paula, the other is Jay County, Indiana Death Records, Book H-1, page 67.

I have searched through my digital files and cannot locate where I have ever requested a copy of his death certificate from the Jay County Health Department.  So there is one avenue of research that will be on my "to-do" list for 2014.

Using my subscription to Newspaperarchive.com, I decided to see what newspapers they might have for this time period.  Early Jay County, Indiana newspapers are not always extant.  I was able to find some editions of the early Portland Commercial, but none for the month of January 1888, when John died.

I did find mention of grandpa John in the December 22, 1887 edition of the Portland Commercial.  On page one, under the social happenings of the Fair Haven area, is stated :

Mr. John Metzner, who lives north east from this place is seriously sick.

So while this doesn't give an exact cause of death, it does at least put him on the sick roll at the time shortly before his demise.  Now I will need to follow up with a trek to the Jay County Health Department for a copy of the official record.

I'm also not familiar with the neighborhood of Fair Haven, so am unsure what the connection to the Metzner clan.  I had always known them to be around the Westchester area of Jay County.

Wondering also if John might have been suffering from the flu, though that may just be because in 2014 I'm stuck at home doing the same.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

Hubert Delmont Lyst (b. 1888), Huntington 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.

Hubert Delmont Lyst (b. March 1888 Indiana) was the son of Francis Delmont Lyst and Etta May Young.  Hubert's second marriage on November 1, 1942 in Huntington County, Indiana to Irene (Bolton) Washington was found.  I also found other records listing the maiden name of Hubert's first wife, Ethel Boyer.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XXNF-1ZZ : accessed 26 Jun 2013), Hubert D Lyst and Irene Washington, 1942.

Application is Hereby Made for a License for the Marriage of

Hubert D. Lyst to Irene Washington

Male
1. The full christian and surname of the male is Hubert D. Lyst
2. Color White
3. Where Born Madison Co.
4. When Born Mch. 13, 1887
5. Present residence Allen Co.
6. Present occupation Elect.
8. Is the male contracting party of nearer blood kin to the female contracting party than second cousin? No
9. Full christian and surname of father Francis Lyst
10. His color White 
11. His birthplace Madison Co.
13. His residence Deceased
14. Full christian and maiden name of mother Ettamay Young
15. Her color White
17. Her birthplace Tipton Co.
18. Her residence Deceased
19. Has the male contracting party been an inmate of any county asylum or home for indigent persons within the last five years? No
21. Is this his first marriage? No
22. If not, how often has he been married? Once
23. Has each prior marriage or marriages been dissolved? Yes
24. If so, how? Death
25. When? 1936
26. Is the male contracting party afflicted with epilepsy, tuberculosis, venereal, or any other contagious or transmissible disease? No
27. Is he an imbecile, feeble-minded, idiotic or insane, or is he under guardianship as a person of unsound mind? No

Female
1. The full christian and surname of the woman is Irene Washington
2. Color White
3. Where born Tipton Co.
4. When born Sept. 30, 1901
5. Present residence Madison Co.
7. Full christian and surname of father Horace F. Bolton
8. His color White
9. His birthplace Tipton Co.
10. His occupation Carpenter
11. His residence Indianapolis
12. Full christian and maiden name of mother Leona Mae Webb
13. Her color White
15. Her birthplace Tipton Co.
16. Her residence Tipton
17. Has the female contracting party been an inmate of any county asylum or home for indigent persons within the last five years? No
18. Is this her first marriage? No
19. If not, how often has she been married? Twice
20. Has such prior marriage or marriages been dissolved? Yes
21. If so, how and when? Divorce 1935 - 1940
22. Is the female contracting party afflicted with epilepsy, tuberculosis, venereal, or any other contagious or transmissible disease? No
23. Is she an embecile, feeble-minded, idiotic or insane, or is she under guardianship as a person of unsound mind?  No

Hubert was my maternal second cousin three times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Lambertson and Sarah A. Willson.  Have not researched Hubert much, though did find he and first wife living in Elwood, Madison County, Indiana in 1924 directory.

Postcard Friday : A Fine View in Ft. Recovery, Ohio

Portland, Ind.

June 30, 1910 P.M.

Miss Vera Haley

Portland, Ind.

RFD 9

Why in the world don't you ___ card and why don't you come over.  I'm just sick to see you.  Hazel Young visited me last week had a time.  Suppose you still don't look at poor little Otto.  I weigh 85 pounds how is that

from Clara

[signed upside down at top of card, hard to read.]

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This postcard was part of the collection of my paternal great-grandaunt, Vera (Haley) Stuber.

Chew Marriage Records in Darke County, Ohio

Early Marriage Records of Darke County, Ohio, 1817-1865 A-L, Fort Greenville Chapter DAR, recopied by Margaret Snyder, 1966.

Found this book in the Allen County Public Library in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, several months ago, and just now getting around to extracting the information on my relatives.  In this volume I located two Chew relatives.

Chew, Abel W., m. Sarah Holderman Oct. 2, 1862 by John L. Bates.  Abel Woolston Chew was my paternal 2nd-great granduncle, the brother to Mary (below).  I have his marriage in my database taking place on September 25, 1862 in Greenville, and his wife being named Salome H. Holdeman.  Whether the name was Holdeman or Holderman will need to be sorted out as well.

Chew, Mary H., m. Luman W. Lemaster Oct. 2, 1864 by Jason Young, M.G.  Mary Keziah Chew was my paternal 2nd-great grandmother.  I already knew her marriage took place on October 2, 1864 in Versailles, Darke County, Ohio. The transcription of her middle initial may be an error.  The Jason Young who performed the ceremony may be a relative of Luman's.