Andrea's Genealogical Attic - Jotham Viles and Mary Ann Leech

Clarissa Viles Taute

2011-02-14T11:56:00.000-05:00

Long at last, here is a photo of the oldest daughter of Jotham Viles and Mary Ann Leech, Clarissa A. Viles. Clarissa Viles was born on 1 October 1849 in Delavan, Walworth, Wisconsin. She died on 21 August 1913 in Paton, Greene, Iowa. This photo was displayed at her funeral on 21 September 1913 and I cropped it from the funeral photograph. Alice Thankful Taute Pemble took the funeral photograph.

Clarissa certainly inherited the chin dimple that seems to be a Viles trait.

Now, I would like a photo of Clarissa's husband, Augustus Taute.

Snow and More Snow

2011-02-04T13:36:00.000-05:00

This week, the United States was hit hard by a large winter storm. Some 30 states were reported to be affected. Where I live, we first were hit with freezing rain and then sleet. Chicago was hit hard with snow.

This is a picture of Gretchen Taute taken in Lemmon, South Dakota during the winter of 1937. It may have been 1938 or 39.

There is mountain of snow and getting around could not have been easy.

Chistmas Eve Dinner

2010-12-24T00:43:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday, we were driving home from church and Prairie Home Companion was on the radio. Garrison Keillor described a traditional Norwegian Christmas meal with the lutefisk. I just cannot describe it better. So if you really want to know what lutefisk is without tasting it, listen to Garrison's description in the December 18, 2010 News From Lake Wobegon. He was spot on.

We would start the meal with fruit soup which is made with pearl tapioca, a variety of dried fruits, stick cinnamon and grape juice. Then, the main course would include lutefisk (cod fish cured in lye) with boiled potatoes drown in melted butter. There would be a vegetable, a salad, and lots of lefse which looks a lot like a tortilla except that it is made out of potatoes. We would butter the lefse and sprinkle it with sugar and cinnamon and then roll it up. We usually had one or two fruit pies for dessert. There would also be several cookies like krumkaka, fattigmond and rosettes.

My grandmother without an ounce of Norwegian blood would make this meal on Christmas Eve. My grandmother with both Norwegian and Swedish heritage would make several English dishes.

Merry Christmas to all!

Mrs. William H. Moore - Helen Leach or Helen Fine?

2010-12-20T01:20:00.000-05:00

Another perfect afternoon was wasted after I decided to enter "Helen Leach" into familysearch.org to see if ANY new documents popped up. And well, yes, something did. Helen Leach/Leech b. 1838 in Maine is the sister of Mary Ann Leach/Leech, one of the main subjects of this blog. I have tracked down all of Mary Ann's brothers and parents. But, Helen has eluded my past searches. Helen is enumerated with her mother, Hannah Leech, in 1850 in Delevan, Walworth, Wisconsin and appears to be enumerated with her mother, Hannah, in the 1855 Wisconsin Census in Delavan, Walworth, Wisconsin (it used to be on pilot.familysearch.org but is not appearing on familysearch.org). Previously, I was not been able to find Helen in the 1860 Federal Census or in the Walworth County Marriages. So, when I found the entry below, I got a little excited. Especially when I found Helen and her husband, William in Walworth County, Wisconsin in 1860! Helen is enumerated as 21 years old, born in Maine. All consistent with my Helen.

Name: Anna A. Houghtting
Death Date: 13 Apr 1919

Death Place: San Berrito, Cameron, Texas

Gender: Female

Race: W

Death Age: 47 years 10 months 16 days

Estimated Birth Date:

Birth Date: 17 Jun 1872

Birthplace: Rockford, Iowa

Marital Status: Married

Spouse's Name:

Father's Name: Wm H. Moore

Father's Birthplace: Old Town, New Jersey

Mother's Name: Helen M. Leach

Mother's Birthplace: Maine

Occupation: Farmer

Place of Residence:

Cemetery:

Burial Date: 14 Apr 1919

Additional Relatives: X

Film Number: 2073563

Digital Film Number: 4023777

Image Number: 85

Reference Number: 85

What has me a bit concerned, is that several online family trees have the wife of William H. Moore as Helen "FINE". No one listed a marriage but that is what is needed here. A marriage record that states William H. Moore married Helen ???. Well, so far, I have not found one.

Hopefully, one of the Moore/Fine descendants have found a marriage record or have additional information that I am missing. But, a quick check of my trusted Maine research sites, and I was coming up with a couple of questionable "FINE" families in Maine during the 1840-1850 time frame and maybe none. Yet, in the 1860 Census and in the 1870 Census enumerated in Rockford, Floyd, IA, Helen is born in Maine. In both of the 1860 and 1870 census, William is listed as being born in New Jersey. There are certainly several "Fine" families in New Jersey but none appear to have a daughter named Helen born in 1838 in Maine.

In the next post, more clues from Anna Houghtling's death certificate and more census clues.

Joseph H Leech - Land Patent

2010-10-02T14:53:00.000-04:00

Land Patent for Joseph H. Leech

When I found this land patent on the Bureau of Land Management's website, I wanted to know if this was the same Joseph Leech, son of William R. Leech and Hannah Sewell, born in Maine>moved to Wisconsin with his mother>moved to Iowa with his brother-in-law, Jotham Viles>settled in Bon Homme County, South Dakota. Valuable information can be gleaned from the patent file. Here are some things that I found in the file:

No. 14335

CASH ENTRY

Land Office at Michell, D.T. [Dakota Territory]

Sec. 15, Town. 103, Range 67

Patented Apr 20 1888

Recored Vol. 21, Page 76

The land was purchased on 5 Dec 1885 by Joseph H Leech, residing in Brule County, Territory of Dakota, North East Quarter of Section 15 in Township 103 of Range No 67 of the 5 Principal Meridian containing 160 acres. He bought the land for $1.25 per acre totaling Two Hundred Dollars.

An Affiviavit dated 20 Apr 1888 by Joseph H Leech, was sworn and subscribed in Bon Homme County, Territory of Dakota.

Date of Residence, May 7, 1883

Date of Entry, May 7, 1883

Date of Proof, Dec. 1, 1885

Date of Advertised, Dec. 1, 1885

Date of Certification, Dec. 5, 1885

Improvements, Frame house, shingle roof 12 x 20, 40 acres broken

Value of $600

Residence claimed, 2 y. 6 mos 24

Claimant's family, Wife & 5 children

Paid $14.00 on May 7, 1883 to the Register for a Homestead Application.

The house was built in 1882 and Joseph purchased the house from the entry man.

An Non-Mineral Affidavit signed in Davison County, Territory of Dakota by Joseph H Leech on 1 Dec 1885.

C M Gregory (acquainted with Joseph Leech for 30 years) and Clark A Edgecomb signed Homestead Proof - Testimony of Witness for Joseph.

On 1 Dec 1885, Joseph claimed to be 39 years old and native of the United States. He had a wife and 5 children. He had only been gone from the property for 3 days to harvest grain since May 7, 1883.

Joseph H. Leech was given a Homestead Certificate No. 14335.

What did I learn from this file? It is highly probable that this is the same Joseph Leech who was born in Maine and later lived in Bon Homme County, South Dakota based on age,affidavit taken in Bon Homme County, nativity, and consistent with arrival date to South Dakota reported on South Dakota 1905 Census by two daughters . Joseph and his family arrived in South Dakota on or before May 1883. Assuming that this is the correct Joseph, Joseph and his wife, Alice had a child who was most likely born between December 1882 and May 1883 and died before 1900. Alice mostly like died in South Dakota before 1900.

Now the question is who the heck is C M Gregory that had known Joseph for 30 years? This implies that C M Gregory lived in Wisconsin with Joseph.

Beautiful Butterflies

2010-07-30T10:56:00.000-04:00

A little break from gravestone hunting in cemeteries. I could not resist taking these photos of the butterflies.

Elinor (Eleanor) Viles Daughter of Joseph Viles and Elinor Heald

2010-06-19T20:22:00.000-04:00

The family group of Joseph Viles born 05 Sept 1792 in Orland, Hancock, Maine and Elinor (Eleanor) Heald had gaps in it. Joseph Viles b. 1792 was the uncle of Jotham Viles and brother of Alfred Viles. Either there were missing children or several children died. Well, I just found a child to fill one gap thanks to Pilot Family Search. I used the advance search and put in "Joseph" for First and Middle Names, "Viles" for Last Name and "Eleanor" for Spouse. There were 20 exact and close matches. The top three were my couple: marriage record in Maine, death record in Wisconsin, and the third was the surprise. A Massachusetts death of Elinor C. Leach. Hmmmm .......

JACKPOT! There is no doubt that Elinor C. Leach is the daughter of Joseph and Elinor (Eleanor) Viles. She was born in Anson, Maine. Anson was where Joseph and Elinor Viles lived before moving to Geneva, Walworth, Wisconsin circa 1845.

Return of A Death    City or Town: Raynham
Full Name: Elinor C. Leach   Register No. 26
Place of Death: Raynham Centre St.    Date of Death: Sept 2 1908
Residence: Raynham      Age: 86 years - months 25 days
Sex F Color W     Single, Married, Widowed, or Divorced   M
Maiden Name: Elinor C. Viles
Husband's Name: Zelotes Leach
Birthplace: Anson, Me
Name of Father: Joseph Viles
Birthplace of Father: unknown
Maiden Name of Mother: Elinor Heald
Birthplace of Mother: unknown
Occupation: none
Informant: Willard G Leach, Raynham
Place of Burial or Removal: Raynham Pleasant St. Cem
Undertaker: E Milbank

What I learned from this document was that Joseph and Eleanor (Heald) Viles had at least one child who did not make the trip to Wisconsin. Elinor Viles was born (calculated from death date) on 8 August 1822 in Anson, Somerset, Maine. She married Zelotes Leach and died on 2 September 1908 in Raynham, Bristol, Massachusetts at the age of 86 years 25 days. Her father and mother were Joseph Viles and Elinor Heald.

Additional research indicates that Elinor Viles was previous married to Mr. Green. That marriage has not been located. Elinor Green and Zelotes Leach were married on 12 December, 1847 in Taunton, Bristol, Massachusetts. It is also not clear whether Elinor and Zelotes Leach had any children. Zelotes Leach apparently was also previous married married to Martha C. Gary. The informant on Elinor Leach's Return of Death was Willard G. Leach, son of Zelotes and Martha.

Viles Information in Wisconsin and Iowa

2010-05-10T12:30:00.000-04:00

My last post discussed new databases for Maine research. As discussed in past posts, numerous Maine Viles families migrated first to Wisconsin settling primarily in Walworth County. From Wisconsin, they scattered West. Many moved to Iowa or Minnesota. Pilot.FamilySearch.org has databases with birth, marriage, and death records for Wisconsin, Iowa and Minnesota. I found the marriage records to be the most complete. I believe that many records are missing from the birth and death records probably because they were not recorded. If the image is not linked to the index on Pilot.FamilySearch.org, the FHL film source will be listed. Researching these families is certainly becoming easier.

Maine Databases

2010-05-04T11:55:00.000-04:00

On April 27, 2010, pilot.FamilySearch.org updated three important databases for Maine research.

Maine Births and Christenings, 1739-1900
Maine Marriages, 1771-1907, 1739-1900
Maine Deaths and Burials, 1841-1910, 1739-1900

This is wonderful! There appear to be several databases. The same marriage may appear several times with slightly different information. And a word of caution, some of the marriage dates may in fact may be the marriage intentions and not the actual marriage date.

The research Wiki at FamilySearch.org cautions that databases are not complete for any given area. The LDS source film is given with each entry so that original can be checked out.

In terms of the subject Viles family of this blog, there appear to be several individuals that are members of the family yet not connected in my database. For example, there is a Susan Viles that marries Levi Butler. See entry below:

Groom's Name: Levi Butler

Groom's Birthplace: Of Norridgewock
Bride's Name: Susan Viles
Bride's Birthplace: Of Norridgewock
Marriage Date: 18 Sep 1849
Marriage Place: Norridgewock, Somerset, Maine
Indexing Project (Batch) No.: M52268-1
System Origin: Maine-EASy
Source Film Number: 11577

This couple is living next to Alfred and Thankful Viles in Starks, Somerset, Maine in the 1850 Census. The unanswered question screams, "Is Susan Viles the daughter of Alfred and Thankful (Norton) Viles?"

Elijah Butler and Naomi Viles Family Group Sheet

2010-03-22T00:11:00.000-04:00

Notes: There may be other children. Also, not every fact has been verified. Most of the sources are secondary sources. If you have better information, please let me know. I also have information on the grandchildren of Elijah and Naomi Butler.

Husband: Elijah BUTLER son of Henry Butler and Mehitable Norton
Birth: Abt. 1798 in Massachusetts
Marriage: 20 Mar 1823 in New Vineyard, Franklin, Maine, USA [2]
Death: Bef. 1870 in Genoa City, Walworth, Wisconsin, USA [1]

Wife: Naomi VILES daughter of Joseph Viles and Sarah Hancock
Birth: 1805 in Orland, Hancock, Maine, USA
Death: 11 Jul 1882 in Genoa City, Walworth, Wisconsin, USA or Bureau, Illinois.

Children:
1 Name: Asa Hunt BUTLER [1, 3]
Birth: 07 Oct 1825 in New Vineyard, Franklin, Maine, USA [1, 3, 4]
Marriage: 26 Jan 1854 in Geneva, Walworth, Wisconsin, USA
Death: 13 Nov 1914 in Petrolia, Humboldt, California, USA [5]
Spouses: Rosina FARNSWORTH (b: 12 Oct 1830 d. 12 Oct 1902 Petrolia, Humbodt, California [5])

2 Name: Harriet Downs BUTLER [1]
Birth: 26 Mar 1826 in Industry, Franklin, Maine, USA [1, 5]
Death: 03 Aug 1907 in Churn Creek, Shasta, California, USA [5]
Spouses: John S LEEMAN (b: 1824)
Mathias Mathew BRAND (b: 23 Jun 1825) Marriage: 08 Nov 1859 in Shasta, California, USA [6]

3 Name: Sumner BUTLER [1]
Birth: Oct 1830 in New, Franklin, Maine, USA [1, 7]
Marriage: 03 Jul 1859 in Steele, Minnesota, USA [8]
Death: Aft. 1910 mostly likely New Mexico
Spouses: Jeannette SIMMONS (b: 1826)

4 Name: Francis BUTLER [1]
Birth: 20 Nov 1832 in New Vineyard, Franklin, Maine, USA [1]
Marriage: 12 Jan 1858 [9]
Death: 06 Nov 1915 in Elkhorn, Walworth, Wisconsin, USA [1]
Spouses: George E. BURPEE (b: 1821)

5 Name: Martha BUTLER
Birth: 12 Nov 1835 in Farmington, Franklin, Maine, USA [1]
Marriage: 1862
Death: 21 May 1922 in Esbon, Jewell, Kansas, USA [5]
Spouses: Emory CLEMONS

6 Name: Lorahama BUTLER [1]
Birth: 1838 in Maine, USA [1]
Marriage: 20 Dec 1869 in Elkhorn, Walworth, Wisconsin, USA
Death: 1921
Spouses: Charles WALES (b: 1818)

8 Name: Mary BUTLER [1]
Birth: 1842 in New Vineyard, Franklin, Maine, USA [1]
Marriage: 29 Mar 1873 in Delavan, Walworth, Wisconsin, USA
Death: 02 Apr 1932 Omaha, Douglas, Nebraska, USA [5]
Spouses: Jerome S MILLER (d. 10 Nov 1896 Omaha, Douglas, Nebraska)

9 Name: Jennie BUTLER [1]
Birth: Dec 1848 in Maine, USA [1, 10]
Marriage: 18 Dec 1877 in Elkhorn, Walworth, Wisconsin, USA
Death: 12 Apr 1938 in Bureau, Illinois, USA [11]
Spouses: Joseph W. ALBRECHT (b: Jun 1845 d. 03 Jan 1929 [11])

Sources

1 Ancestry.com, Public Member Trees (Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2006), Database online.Record for Elijah Butler.
2 Hatch, William Collins, History of Industry (Press of Knowlton, McLeary & Co., 1893, 894 pgs.).
3 Ancestry.com and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1880 United States Federal Census (Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2005), Database online. Petrolia, Humboldt, California, ED 40, roll T9_66, page 445.4000, image 0192.Record for Asa Butler.
4 Ancestry.com, 1900 United States Federal Census (Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2004).
5 FindAGrave.com.
6 Pamela Lane Dollarhide, Pamela Lane Dollarhide.
7 Ancestry.com, 1900 United States Federal Census (Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2004).
8 State of Minnesota, Minnesotal Offical Marriage System (2009), http://www.mncounty.com/Modules/Certificates/Marriage/Default.aspx.
9 Pamela Lane Dollarhide, Pamela Lane Dollarhide.
10 Ancestry.com, 1900 United States Federal Census (Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2004).
11 Illinois Statewide Death Index 1915-1950.
12 Hatch, William Collins, History of Industry (Press of Knowlton, McLeary & Co., 1893, 894 pgs.), 836.

Asa Butler and Fred Farnsworth Bound for California

2010-01-10T16:14:00.000-05:00

Asa Butler moved with his parents and large extended family from Maine to Walworth County, Wisconsin circa 1850. He married Rosina Farnsworth on 26 Jan 1854 in Geneva, Walworth, Wisconsin. It is not known whether this couple had any children or not. Then, prior to 1860, Asa and his brother-in-law, Fred Farnsworth, travel by covered wagon from Wisconsin through Fort Kearney, the South Pass. Asa, Rosina and Fred are found in the 1860 census of Eel River Twp, Humboldt, California in 1860. Asa's sister, Harriet Downs Butler Leeman also made her way to California but settled in Shasta County. Harriet married Mattias Brand on 8 Nov 1859 in Shasta, California. From Serial Set Vol. No. 1100, Session Vol. No. 9; Report: H. Exec. Doc. 63; Asa Butler had 1 wagon, 2 people, and 4 stock destine for California. Fred (listed as F. Carnsworth) had 2 wagons, 4 people and 8 stock destine for California. The interesting question becomes, who were the other four people? Was one of the party, Harriet Leeman who was a widow at the time? Fred was not married yet. Just who were the other 3 or 4 unaccounted for persons??

It must have been an adventure.

Asa Hunt Butler b. Oct 1825 in New Vineyard, Franklin, Maine. Asa and Harriet's parents were Elijah Butler and Naomi Viles. Harriet was born 26 Feb or March 1826. Either Asa's or Harriet's birthdate is not correct.

Charles Viles

2009-08-22T23:52:00.002-04:00

Charles C. Viles was the son of John G. Viles and Clara Baker, born 18 Apr 1885 in Vinton, Benton, Iowa according to the record of births for Benton County, Iowa.

Charles Viles, of this city, died Saturday morning at 7:30 o’clock, at Lane, Kan., in which city he had been operating a motion picture theater since last fall. His death was caused by pneumonia following an attack of influenza. Word was received from the father, who was at his bedside, Saturday morning, stating that the son had passed away. The body will be brought to Vinton for burial.

Mr. Viles was about 34 years of age, and was born and reared in Vinton. For several years he has been engaged in the motion picture business. Last fall he purchased a theater at Lane, Kan., and had been operating it since. His wife and son were with him. Besides the wife and son he is survived by his father and one sister, Mrs. Clark Hayward, of this city. His mother died a year ago.

The Evening Gazette Feb 09, 1920

Mrs. John Viles Dies at Vinton

2009-08-22T23:42:00.001-04:00

Given name was Clara Baker.

Vinton, Ia., April 19 – Mrs. John Viles died at her home in this city early Wednesday morning. On Tuesday morning she suffered a stroke of paralysis, the stroke coming on while she was about her household duties. She was practically unconscious from the time of the stroke to the time of her death. Deceased was born in Big Grove township, May 31, 1857. She was married on April 11, 1877 to John G. Viles of this city, and she had lived in Vinton since the time of her marriage. She is survived by her husband and two children, Charles C. and Mrs. Florence Hayward, of this city; also two grandchildren, Mrs. Elmer Snow, Waterloo, and John L. Viles, this city, and one great-grandchild, Carl Hayward Snow. Funeral services were conducted this afternoon at 2:30 PM by Rev. D. MeMasters, pastor of the Baptist church.

Waterloo Evening Courier, Apr 19, 1918

John G. Viles of Vinton Dies

2009-08-22T23:24:00.003-04:00

John G. Viles was born third child born to Jotham and Mary Ann Viles, on 1 Feb 1853 in Walworth County, Wisconsin.

Vinton, Ia. – John G. Viles, one of the pioneer residents of Vinton, died at his home here Monday. Mr. Viles was 77 years of age and was born in Wisconsin. At the age of nine years he came to Vinton with his parents and had resided here constantly since. He married in 1877 Miss Clara Baker who died 12 years ago. He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Clark Hayward, and a grandson, Linford Viles of Victoria, Tex., and a granddaughter, Mrs. Helen Snow, of Cedar Rapids. He also has three great grandchildren. For the last 40 years Mr. Viles had been a carpenter at the College for the Blind here. Since the death of his wife, his daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Clark Hayward, have lived with him. Burial will be at Evergreen cemetery.

Waterloo Daily Courier, July 16, 1930

Art Taute and Brothers

2009-08-13T14:37:00.007-04:00

The man seated is Arthur R. Taute, son of Augustus Taute and Clarissa Viles. He was born on 14 February 1880 in Paton, Greene, Iowa and died on 27 December 1927 in Tolley, Renville, North Dakota. I would like to know who these other gentlemen are. Presumably a couple of his brothers. The man on the left looks younger to me. Perhaps it is Ralph Taute b. 10 Apr 1887. The other three possiblities are George b. Dec 1869. Lemuel b. 10 Apr 1873 or the most likely, John Henry (Jack) b. 8 Jul 1876. George moved to Oklahoma and Lem moved to Minnesota. Ralph and Jack spent time in both North Dakota and Iowa.

This is a photo of Art and Alfred Taute b. 1875 d. 1906.

Dr. G. E. LEECH WILL REMOVE TO THE EAST

2009-07-18T21:39:00.003-04:00

George Edwin Leech was the son of George Leech and Elizabeth G. Willis of Delavan, Walworth, Wisconsin. Born 17 Sep 1859 and died 04 Jun 1947.

Will Conduct His Farm at Vineland, N. J., and Also Open Practice

Dr. G. Ed. Leech, veterinarian, who has been located in Winona for the last 20 years, plans to leave with his wife the end of the week for Vineland, N.J. Dr. Leech will make his headquarters on a farm of 80 acres which he owns near that place and will undertake veterinary work in the south central part of New Jersey or the heart of Maryland. While he does not expect to personally conduct his farm he will oversee it and make that his headquarters for other work.

In the 20 years he has been located in Winona Dr. Leech has done general veterinary work for 15 years of that time has been inspector for interstate shipments of stock, looking into the health of livestock passing between the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin. This service is now to be discontinued here, it is stated. Inspection work has increased in Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as in other states, until now, with 10 or more inspectors to a state, this inspection can be performed at important points without the inconvenience of stopping the stock for inspection at points where they may pass from one state to another, it is stated. While in Winona Dr. Leech also served for seven years as city milk inspector.

Mrs. Leech also has been active, particularly along the line of promoting women’s work. For several years she acted as superintendent of the women’s department at the Tri-County fair in Winona. She also has served as assistant superintendant in the women’s department at the Minnesota state fair.

Winona Republic-Herald, Feb. 4, 1920

Grace B. Cramer Viles Obit

2009-07-18T17:42:00.006-04:00

Grace B. Viles

Grace B. Viles, widow of Sewall C. Viles, 519 Fifteenth street NE, a lifelong resident of Cedar Rapids and a supervisor at the Children’s home, died in a Cedar Rapids hospital at 5:50 p.m. Friday. She was born Feb. 27, 1889 in Cedar Rapids.

Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Floyd Johnson of San Antonio; a brother, W.H. Cramer of Chicago, and two grandchildren.

Mrs. Viles was a member of St. Paul’s Methodist church, and Pythian Sisters.

Services will be conducted in Turner chapel at 1:30 p.m. Monday by Dr. Marvin B. Kober and the Pythian sisters. Burial will be in Cedar Memorial cemetery. Friends may call at the chapel.

Cedar Rapid Tribune July 14, 1951

Sewall C. Viles Obit

2009-07-18T15:52:00.008-04:00

Sewall Chadborne Viles was the youngest son of both Jotham S. Viles and his third wife Laura Schutts and the only child born to this union.

"JACK VILES", FORMER MEMBER OF COUNCIL, IS TAKEN BY DEATH

Funeral services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. in St. Paul’s M. E. church for Lieut. Col. S.C. (“Jack”) Viles, former member of the city council, who died at his home, 1414 Bever-ave, Tuesday morning after an extended illness. Rev. Dr. A. A. Brooks, pastor of St. Paul’s church officiated at the funeral. Mr. Viles had lived here 37 years.

Prominent in military circles, Mr. Viles was second in command of the 133rd infantry of the Iowa National Guard. He first enlisted in ING at Vinton, where he was born July 12, 1881. During the World war he served as instructor at training camps at Camp Custer, Mich. and Camp Lee, Va. He was a charter member of Hanford post American Legion.

In 1922-23 he was a deputy sheriff under former sheriff Tom Avery. In 1931 Mr. Viles was elected commissioner of public safety, serving two years. Following the death of “Jim” Travis, justice of the peace, Mr. Viles was named to fill the unexpected term, later being elected for a full term. He was a past president of the Barbers’ union.

Col. Viles was active in fraternal circles. He was past chancellor-commander of Star of the West lodge No. 1, Knights of Pythians, and a past deputy grand chancellor of the Pythians of Iowa. He was secretary of Ardekan temple of D.O.K.K. and a member of the local Pythian judiciary committee. He was a past noble grand of Maine lodge No. 613 I.O.O.F.

Besides his wife, Grace B. Viles, he is survived by his daughter, Eileen at home, and a son, Richard of San Bernardino, Calif.

Cedar Rapids Tribune, March 12, 1937

Joseph Leech in Springfield Cemetery

2009-06-23T12:42:00.012-04:00

Pouring rain and an hour off the highway did not detour us from visiting Springfield Cemetery in Springfield, Bon Homme, South Dakota. The landscape was lush green grass with rolling hills and few trees. It is just north of the Missouri River and an hour west of the I-29 off the Vermillion exit.

The target graves were Joseph H. Leech d. 15 May 1927 (South Dakota Death Index, 1905-1955 on ancestry.com) and his son, Frank Leech d. 1900. The cemetery records indicate that they are buried in Block 28, lot 4, graves 6 and 5. A cemetery trustee gave us directions to the site. We searched long and hard in the very wet grass but did not find the graves of Joseph and Frank. However, we did find one for Joseph's granddaughter, Martha Alice (Stark) Newman. It appears that Martha who was also known as Alice, was named after both of her grandmothers. Joseph Leech married Alice Bentley in Benton County, Iowa 14 September 1872. The Martha comes from her paternal grandmother, Martha C (Armstrong) Stark. Martha Alice Newman shares a headstone with her husband, Victor Newman and Martha and George Stark are buried in the adjoining graves. Dennis Clyde Stark and Mary A. Stark, children of George and Martha Stark have nearby graves as well.

On the "To Be Found" list are the death/burial records for Alice (Bentley) Leech, Mary A. (Leech) Grinwis d.1910, and Oscar and Clara (Leech) Stark. Mary and Clara Leech are both daughters of Joseph and Alice Leech. Oscar is the son of George and Martha Stark and father of Martha Alice (Stark) Newman.

Jotham Viles's Wives

2009-05-21T09:57:00.007-04:00

Jotham Viles married four women and had 8 or 9 nine children. Only his last wife did not bear him a child. His first wife was Mary Ann Leach, the assumed daughter of William R. Leach and Hannah Sewell. She has been the focus of much of my research. There is no document to date that establishes her parentage but there is much circumstantial evidence. Jotham Viles of Starks and Mary Ann married on October 1, 1848 in Augusta, Kennebec, Maine. Their intentions were published in the Maine Farmer on September 17, 1848 and the marriage announcement was published in the Age on October 12, 1848. This union produced 5 or 6 children: Clarissa, Serena, John, Helen, Frank? and Mary. All of the children were born in Walworth County Wisconsin.

Jotham's next wife was Sarah Diana Frost. They were married on June 3, 1861 in Tipton, Cedar, Iowa. There is evidence that they were living in both Wisconsin and Iowa during the next few years. Jotham and Sarah had two girls, Elsie Matilda and Iona. Sarah died on April 28, 1879 in Eden, Benton, Iowa.

Jotham's third wife was Laura E. Shutt (Schutts) Smith. They married on November 11, 1879 in Vinton, Benton, Iowa by L. S. Keagle. Laura's first husband, Silas Smith, did not die and in fact married two women after Laura and had many children. Laura brought her two sons with Silas with her, Frederick and George Smith. Jotham and Laura had one son of their own, Sewall Chadborne. Laura died on July 7, 1886.

Jotham married his last wife, Letha Ann Taylor Dodge, less than two years before his death. Letha was previously married to Elijah S. Dodge and had three sons by that union. Letha was 59 years old when they married February 16, 1889 by Levi S. Keagles and no children were produced by this marriage.

William R. Leach's Land Sold at Sheriff's Sale in 1837

2009-05-07T12:01:00.007-04:00

William R. Leach of St. Albans, Somerset, Maine owed Samuel Shaw and Elijah Wood Jr. of Palmyra, Somerset, Maine $200 for Fifty acres more or less. The land was part of lot No. seven in the second range in the town of St. Albans. William's brother, Jeremiah Leach was the highest bidder and paid the $200 on October 9, 1837. William had one year to redeem the land. The following was found in Volume 47 pp 74-75 of Somerset County Maine Deed Books. FHL US/CAN film #12171.

Know all men by these Presents That I Harris Gracelon of
St. Albans in the County of Somerset and State of Maine a Deputy Sheriff
Under Nathan Fowler Esq Sheriff of the same County at a Public ???
Due held at the Tavern of Jonathan Wilson of Hartland in the County of
Somerset of aforesaid on this month day of October in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven having given notice in writing
of the time and place of sale to the Judgment Debtor in the Execution herein
after mentioned by letter in the mail and having received a Certificate of
the Post Master that he gave him a Copy true in hand and having given
Public Notice of the time and place of sale by posting up notifications there of
in two Public places in the town of Ste Albans and also by posting up notifica-
tions thereof in on Public place in each of the adjoining towns of Hartland
and Palmyra thirty days before the time of the sale and having caused ad
vertisement of the time and place of sale to be published three weeks re
spectively before the day of sale in the Skowhegan Sentinel a Public News
paper printed in Skowhegan in said County and having adjourned from
the seventh to the ninth this day have by virtue of an Execution in my hands
in favor of Samuel Shaw and Elijah Wood Jr. of Palmyra in the County
of Somerset against William R. Leach of St. Albans in said County of
Somerset. In consideration of the sum of Two hundred Dollars of the law
Ful money of the said State paid to my this day by Jeremiah Leach of
St. Albans in said County of Somerset sold to the said Jeremiah Leach
He being the highest bidder therefor all the right title and interest which the
Said William R. Leach has in and to the following describe real estate
lying in St. Albans aforesaid in Said County of Somerset to wit. Being
part of lot No. seven in the second range of lots in said town and bounded
on the north by Mark Haleys land. On the east by the road leading from
Levi J. Merricks to Palmyra southerly. South by land occupied by
Isaac O. & Osgood Robertson. On the west by land occupied by same
Robertsons. Being the lot now-occupied by Alexander Gordon Jr Contain
ing fifty acres more or less. Reserving liberty to the said William R. Leach
to redeem the said right, title and interest by paying with one year after
the date of these Presents all such sums of money as by the statues of
State he ought to pay in order to redeem the said right, title and interest.
In witness where of I have hereunto set my hand and seal this ninth
Day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-seven.
Signed sealed and delivered in ) Harris Garcelon Seal
Presence of Levi I Merrick )
Somerset SS. October 9, 1837 Personally appeared Harris Garcelon
And acknowledged the above instrument to be his free act and Deed
Before me Levi J. Merrick Justice of the Peace
Somerset SS Recd March 16, 1838 Entered & Compared by Asa Clark Regr

Ina (Iona) Viles Houghton

2009-04-23T23:24:00.004-04:00

Ina Viles was the daughter of Jotham S. Viles and his second wife, Sarah D. Frost. She was born about 1866 in Walworth, Wisconsin. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Iowa and settled in Vinton, Benton, Iowa. Ina met her future husband in Vinton, Paul B. Houghton, who was born November 1865 in Iowa. He was the son of Marcus and Louisa Houghton. About 1883, the Houghton family moved to Rosedale, Clark County, South Dakota. Paul and Ina were married on January 4, 1887. According to my records, the marriage took place in Benton County, Iowa. This has not been confirmed. The couple made their residence in Clark County, South Dakota and had at least two sons, Marcus R. Houghton born September 8, 1892 and Albert Houghton born April 10, 1894. According to their birth records, both boys were born in Clark County, South Dakota. Apparently, Ina died prior to 1898 or 1899. Paul married Mina Derscheid in 1899 who had two sons of her own, Albert and Syndey Frederick Wasem. They are found living in Clark County, South Dakota in 1900. They were still there in the 1905 South Dakota census. But by 1910, they had moved to a neighboring county, Le Sueur, Kingbury, South Dakota. Paul was a grain elevator manager. DeSmet, South Dakota is in Kingsbury County and is the place featured in Laura Ingalls Wilder's book, "The Long Winter".

The Value of Google

2009-04-19T10:40:00.003-04:00

For the second year in a row, my taxes were filed late in the business day on April 15! This explains my noticable absence from blogging. But now, I jump into preparing for my youngest son's graduation party just weeks away. Scrapbooks to make and a house to ready, more to do than can be humanly accomplished! A priority list will be must be created.

Back to Google. In the past six months, I have found so much online with the assistance of Google. I am certainly no expert on Google so I have been trying to read as much as possible about its searching functions. And the tips have paid off. A great book that I have reading is "Google Your Family Tree" by Daniel M. Lynch. He has great tips for maximizing your google search.

By using the search term "Jotham * Viles", I found an article about his third wife, Laura Scutt. Apparently, her first husband, Silas Smith was not dead when Laura married Jotham Viles in 1879.

But Happy Dance find was found from "Frank * Kennard". My research has a twenty-one year gap in Frank's life. He is found in the 1870 census in Parsonsfield, York, Maine but then not again until his marriage to Sarah Ellen (Sadie) Kennedy in 1891. Frank was in Billings, Montana for some of this time. According to his obit, he was a contractor for the Northern Pacific Railroad. My google search found a 1883 City Directory for Billings with Frank listed AND the Billings Gazette carried some articles about his marriage to Sadie, the birth of Eveleen, and the death of another child.

Read an article or book on how to use Google and find your ancestors!

Wordless Wednesday Brookings High School 1931 Freshman Class

2009-02-25T19:39:00.002-05:00

Leach/Parkman Deed Linked to Revolutionary War

2009-02-19T10:59:00.006-05:00

WOW! Here is a lesson to research EVERY name on a document. My target person is William R. Leach since I am trying to confirm the relationship between William and Mary Ann Leach. I believe that William is the father of Mary Ann Leach who married Jotham Viles in 1848 in Augusta, Maine but so far a birth record for Mary Ann has not been found. Land records in Somerset County Maine may be a help. The first one that I found leaves me with many more questions than answers.

Gideon Parkman and William R. Leach purchase Lot number 5 in the Fifth Range in Palmyra, Somerset, Maine formerly owned Jariah Miles. It is a 75 acre plot. bought the land for $460 in 1821 from Arnold Welles and John C. Warren, executors of the estate of John Warren.

Just who is Gideon Parkman?? And why would William be purchasing land with someone else. A google search on John Warren, John C. Warren and Arnold Welles (General in the Rev. War) was very interesting in deed. http://www.masshist.org/objects/2006june.cfm Close friends of these men included John and Abigail Adams, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Benedict Arnold. So how did William Leach and Gideon Parkman come to buy the land of Dr. John Warren, founder of Harvard Medical School. Did William's brother, Dr. Jeremiah Leech introduce them to John C. Warren, physician and son of Dr. John Warren? By the way, Dr. John C. Warren performed one of the first surgeries using anesthsia. Why would a Boston physician own land in Somerset County Maine? Maybe other deeds will help solve the mystery.

What a brush with history!

The Marriages Between the Willis and Leech Families

2009-01-15T23:48:00.006-05:00

Many times we run across families that intertwine more than once. This was the case for the Willis and Leech families in Walworth County, Wisconsin. Benjamin Willis b. 1764 married Bridget Cole b. 1766 and among their children were Rachel b. 1802 and Amos b. 1790.

Amos Willis b. 1790 married Jane Ellison. They had a daughter, Elizabeth who married George W. Leech in 1853 in Delavan, Wisconsin. Amos had a sister named Rachel Willis b. 1802 who married John B. Shepard. To this union was born a daughter in 1829, Sabra Shepard and a son, Linus D. Shepard b. 1838. Sabra married Reuben Bristol and they had a daughter Lena b. 1865 who married George Edwin Leech, son of the above George W. Leech and Elizabeth Willis. And Linus D. Shepard married Clarinda Z. Sawyer daughter of Adna Sawyer and Serena Viles, and niece of Jotham Viles and Mary Ann Leech.

Walter Scott ARMSTRONG Descendant Report

2009-01-15T00:40:00.004-05:00

The information obtained on this family mostly came from online resources. First the marriage between Walter and Helen (Hellen) was found on Benton County, Iowa USGen site. http://iagenweb.org/benton/marriages/bride-v.htm. for a county site this is loaded with great information. I also used the 1880 census from Heritage Quest. This gave me the two oldest children, Ida and Walter, who was listed as William. From the 1900 census, I knew that Walter and Helen had four children but only the youngest, Harold was living with them by 1900. I did not find the couple in the 1889 Washington Census. According to the obituary of Walter S. Armstrong, they moved to Washington about 1889. Moving to the 1910 census, I found Helen and Harold living in Washington. Helen is listed as a widow. Next, I used Geneaolgybank.com. This is where I hit the jackpot! Walter's obit came up so I knew that he died in March 1910. There are also lots of articles about the junior Walter who owned a restaurant and was involved in many community activies. Then there was the series of articles that talked about Helen giving cooking classes. The newspaper even ran her photo! What a treasure.

Still, I had not found the last child. Then I started to explore http://www.digitalarchives.wa.gov/default.aspx. If you have Washington ancestors, you must explore this great site. I was able to find the birth of Harold, two marriages for the missing child, Helen A. Armstrong. The actual images were there as well with great family information. The marriage for Harold was also found. I did not find the marriages for Walter Jr. and for Ida. Ida's husband was listed in the obituary for Walter Sr. The couple was living in East Canada so this needs to be explored a bit more. Washington also has a death index. I found both Walter's and Helen's death.

So much information online and for FREE!

..... 1 Walter Scott ARMSTRONG (1851 - 1910) B: 13 Apr 1851 in Indiana, USA, M: 16 Aug 1874 in Benton, Iowa, USA, D: 22 Mar 1910 in Bellingham, Whatcom, Washington, USA

..... + Helen Amanda VILES (1855 - 1936) B: 3 Dec 1855 in Wisconsin, USA, M: 16 Aug 1874 in Benton, Iowa, USA, D: 09 Oct 1936 in Bellingham, Whatcom, Washington, USA

........... 2 Ida M. ARMSTRONG (1876 - ) B: 1876 in Vinton, Benton, Iowa, USA

........... + Henry GOUGH

........... 2 Walter S. ARMSTRONG (1878 - 1951) B: 1878, M: 1904, D: 29 Mar 1951 in Bellingham, Whatcom, Washington, USA

........... + Mabel T. NN (1889 - ) B: 1889 in Wisconsin, USA, M: 1904

........... 2 Helen A. ARMSTRONG (1882 - ) B: 1882 in Vinton, Benton, Iowa, USA, M: 24 Mar 1998 in Whatcom, Washington, USA

........... + W A WYANT (1880 - ) B: 1880, M: 21 May 1904

........... + Arthur D ROGERS (1865 - ) B: 1865 in Kansas, USA, M: 24 Mar 1998 in Whatcom, Washington, USA

........... 2 Harold William ARMSTONG (1898 - ) B: 12 Jan 1898 in New Whatcome, Washington, USA, M: 14 Mar 1917 in Bellingham, Whatcom, Washington, USA

........... + Gertrude M. ROBERTS M: 14 Mar 1917 in Bellingham, Whatcom, Washington, USA

LINUS D. SHEPARD Biographical Record

2009-01-13T14:06:00.003-05:00

From Portrait and Biographical Record of Walworth and Jefferson Counties, Wisconsin, Lake City Publishing Co. Chicago. 1894

Linus D. Shepard was an early settler and prominent farmer of Walworth County, whither he came in 1841. He was born in the town of Darien, Genesee County, N.Y., and was a son of John B. and Rachel (Willis) Shepard, who were of English and Holland descent. In their family were five children: Stephen H., a resident of Walworth County; Sabra, wife of R. H. Bristol, who is living near Delavan; Ann A., who resides with her brother’s family on the old homestead; Mary S., wife of Edward Coleman, of Delavan; and Linus D., of this sketch.

It was during his boyhood that our subject came to Wiscousin, and after attending the common schools, he became a student in the Delavan Seminary, of Delavan, there completing his education. His father died on the 3d of February 1875, and his mother passed away December 24, 1872. They were laid to rest in Spring Grove Cemetery. Having arrived at years of maturity, L. D. Shepard was united in marriage on the 4th of June, 1873, the lady of his choice being Miss Clarinda Z., daughter of Adna Sawyer. She was born in the town of Richmond, in Walworth County, March 29, 1852, and by their marriage were born seven children, all of whom are yet at home. They are John A., who was born April 8, 1874; Eunice R., January 18, 1876; Alfred H., December 25, 1877; Earl L., August 20, 1879; Alice E., January 16, 1881 Esther S., March 24, 1883; and Mabel E., November 1, 1885. The eldest son, John, now has charge of the home farm. He was educated in the Delavan High School and the others are receiving the same educational privileges.

Linus D. Shepard followed farming throughout his entire life, and was the owner of a beautiful tract of land of eight acres, on section 4, Delavan Township. This he placed under a high state of cultivation, and upon it made many excellent improvements. Good buildings were erected, and all the accessories and conveniences of a model farm were added, so that the place has become one of the best in the locality. The owner was a man of high character, was always a friend in time of need, and was an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, who manifested a warm interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of the community. He and his wife belonged to the Congregational Church, and, in politics, he was a Republican. For many years he held the office of School Director, and the cause of education found in him a warm friend. His death resulted from an accident, on the 21st of May, 1890, and he was laid to rest in Spring Grove Cemetery. His life was an honorable and upright one, which gained him the respect of all who knew him, and his loss was therefore deeply lamented.

Walworth County Probate Index

2009-01-13T13:17:00.000-05:00

Walworth County Probate Index 1848-1930
Published by the Walworth County Genealogical Society, Inc., PO Box 159, Delavan, WI 53115-0159
A Estate Administrator
B Will
C Guardianship
D Infant sale of real estate
E Adoption
F Commitment (Insanity)
G Real Estate Sale
H Certification of heirship

Primary Key Case # Case Type Last Name First Name Filing Date Date of Death
1671 1415 A&G Goodwin James 11/5/1849 10/28/1849
1532 1306 D&G Goodwin Lyman J. 11/15/1864
1826 1545 B&G Goodwin Lyman J. 6/14/1870 5/17/1870
3848 3520 B&G Leech Elizabeth G 5/18/1898 5/5/1898
4007 3667 C Sawyer Alice 3/30/1901
1937 1633 B Sawyer Cephas 1/14/1881 12/16/1880
1355 1139 G&H Sawyer Serena N. 12/7/1911 9/4/1891
4002 3661 A&G Sawyer Wallace 10/16/1899 8/7/1899
2148 1814 B Viles Alfred 8/9/1887 8/6/1887
97 89 B Viles Alfred Jr. 7/23/1877 7/10/1877
146 134 B Viles Gustavus G. 7/15/1862 1/13/1862
152 140 C Viles Lucy Alice 7/9/1862 6/13/1862
68 69 A Viles Lucy Alice 8/22/1870 5/28/1870

List of Names found in the Probate Records . Last Name, First Name, Case Number

Farnsworth Adelia 939
Farnsworth Emma 4205
Farnsworth Esther 939
Farnsworth Frederick 939
Farnsworth Joseph M 2856
Farnsworth Joseph M 3242
Farnsworth Julia 939
Farnsworth Marilla 939
Farnsworth Mary 3242
Farnsworth Rosanna 939
Farnsworth Saloma 939
Viles A. W. 3109
Viles Abigail W. 97
Viles Benjamin W. 2148
Viles Edith 97
Viles Elizabeth 97
Viles Eunice 97
Viles Euphrasia 97
Viles Eveline 2148
Viles Fulia E. 152
Viles Gustavus G. 152
Viles Joseph 146
Viles Joseph 152
Viles Jothane S. 2148
Viles Julia Elvira 68
Viles Zebulon M. 2148
Viles Alfred Jr. 2148

Biography of Max Fueger - Milwaukee

2009-01-09T23:41:00.000-05:00

Lawrence and Margret Fueger were the parents of Max Fueger; he was born at Kuehleheim on the Tauber [Kuelsheim], Baden, Germany. He received a thorough common-school education. He had a wish, from boyhood, to become a brewer, and his father assisted him in his inclination. After leaving school he remained at home for nearly two year, working in his father’s shop as cooper.

He then went to learn the brewing trade, with Mr. Max Faeth, with whom he remained two years. He then traveled and worked in different breweries for four and a half years, in the various towns of Wertheim, Heidelberg, Miltenburg, Wuerzburg and Bischofsheim. This was in accordance with the German law requiring three years’ travel and journeywork before beginning any business as proprietor.

In July, 1847, Mr. Fueger came to New York, where he found work, and for a year and a half was employed in what was then the largest brewery in the country, on Washington street, in the old State’s Prison Building. In August, 1849, he came to Wisconsin and settled in Milwaukee, where he has since resided. He has been engaged in brewing all the time, and has worked in nearly all the large breeries in the city. He worked for Best and Co. for eleven years, eight years of which he was foreman. He has a thorough practical knowledge of his trade, careful and watchful of the process. He succeeded in producing a very superior beer, that has given to Best and Co. a more than national name and reputation. They feel and generously acknowledge this fact, and have often expressed their indebtedness to him.

Mr. Fueger left Best and Co. to purchase the interest of Benedict Caspari, in Obermann’s brewery, and entered into partnership with Jacob Obermann, with whom he is still associated. The business has increased steadily, and their progress has been great and constant. When Mr. Fueger entered the business, they were occupying a small frame building; they now have a large brick building, eighty feet long and forty feet wide, besides a large malt-house. Their business has become great and their capital has grown with the business.

Mr. Fueger was brought up a Catholic, but has since become more liberal in hi religious view.

He attributes his success to his thorough knowledge of his trade, to an ever watchful attention, and the cooperation of an excellent wife.

Source: The United State Biographical Dictionary p. 19

Leech Abstracts from the Maine Farmer

2009-01-06T12:15:00.000-05:00

From the Abstracts of Death Notices Miscellaneous News Articles From the Maine Farmer by David C. Young and Benjamin Lewis Keene. They also published one on Marriage Notices.

Leech Jeremiah 68 a native of Minot ME at Sangerville ME [15 Jul 1847]
William H 40 a member of Franklin Division S of T at Augusta ME on 23 Mar [29 Mar 1849]

Both ages are off. And of course, I believe that it is William R. Or perhaps it is a different William Leech. "S of T" stands for the Son of Temperance and more about them can be found in Google Books.

Also, in the Marriages volume:

Leach, Joseph of St. Albans and Eliza Chase, Dec. 13, 1846, Int.
Mary Ann and Jotham S. Viles of Starks, Sept. 17 1848, Int. (I believe the eldest daughter of William R. Leech. Marriage date 1 Oct 1848.)

I think that the above Joseph is the son of John Jr. and Sarah. William R. Leech also had a son Joseph, b. 1846. The Leech family certainly recycled names!

Leech Gravestones in Spring Grove Cemetery

2009-01-05T14:39:00.000-05:00

Spring Grove Cemetery (Delavan)Wisconsin:
• Leach, Mrs. Elizabeth, 7 May 1898
• Leach, William, 19 July 1885
• Leech, Charles, 1 Jun 1870
• Leech, Dr. George Edwin, 4 Jun 1947
• Leech, George, 3 Dec 1893
• Leech, Hannah, 1 Jun 1870
• Leech, John, 1 Jun 1870
• Leech, Maude Ashley, 9 Aug 1941
• Leech, Mr. Lena (sic), 16 Mar 1898
• Leech, William, 1 Jun 1870

Who really died on June 1, 1870? I cannot figure it out. It was not Hannah d. 8 Apr 1856 nor John d. 16 Jul 1857 because the pics of dates listed on their gravestones. I do not think that it was either William – the one died as a baby in 1853 and it looks like another died at about age 20 in 1885. Charles also died as a baby in 1856. We are just going to have the genealogical society go take photos of all the gravestones in the spring. I wonder what happened to Adda born about 1858? She is the mystery person listed under George and Elizabeth Leech in the 1860 census. And I am referring to “her” because she is listed as a female realizing that there could be errors. Maybe she is buried in a “Baby” section. Some cemeteries have a section just for babies and small children. It appears that the Leech’s had money because their first William died when he was less than a month old and has a gravestone.

Visit the Spring Grove Cemetery in Delavan, Wisconsin at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~usgenweb/wi/cemetery/ for some photos of the Leech gravestones.

Marriage Transcription of William Leach and Hannah Sewell

2009-01-05T12:21:00.000-05:00

William Leach of the Parish of Saint Mary and Hannah Sewell of the same Parish were married by License with Consent of Father this eight day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Twenty seven.

By me James Harrison Esquire, one of his Majesty’s Justice of the Peace in and for the County of York Legally authorized to celebrate Marriage with Saia County.

This marriage was solemnized between us

In the presence of Wm R Leach
Calvin L Goodspell (Goodspull?) Hannah Sewell
Nicholas ???iti

Filed and Regr 8 January 1828

Eden Twp, Benton, Iowa Plat Map 1875

2009-01-05T12:11:00.000-05:00

The Brewery Connection - Schreck and Fueger

2009-01-05T00:03:00.000-05:00

Max (Mattaeus) Fueger b. 1832 in Kuelsheim, Baden, Germany immigrated to the United States in 1847 with his parents and siblings. They first went to New York so that Max could work for a brewery there. Then, in 1849, they settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where Max became a successful brewer. In 1851, he married Margaretha Schreck presumably in Wisconsin and had three children, Juliette (Julia) b. July 1852, Gustavus b. 6 Apr 1857, and Edward b. 1862 all born in Wisconsin.

In 1853, Peter Schreck and Friedericke (Fredericka) Heiliger immigrated to the United States and settled in an unknown place. Peter and Friedericka seemingly tied the knot and became Mr. and Mrs. Schreck. Peter was also a brewer. Peter was found in the 1855 Wisconsin Census in Milwaukee and in the 1857-1858 Milwaukee Directory as a malster. In 1858, he was given $500 by the Swiss Colonization Society of Tell City, Perry, Indiana to start a brewery. The Swiss Colonization Society also gave Peter two lots on April 18, 1859: Lot No. 4 in Block No 249 in Tell City, Indiana and Lot No. 11 in Block No. 101 in Tell City, Indiana both on recorded June 2, 1859. It was not a successful business. In 1863, Peter paid income taxes for his brewery in Shawneetown, Gallatin, Illinois. Apparently, Peter died. Fredericka then married Anton Ditt in Evansville, Vanderburgh, Indiana 16 October 1867. Three out of four cities where Peter and Fredericka have been found were along the Ohio River. No children between this union have been found.

Anton and Fredericka then have their first and only child, Juliette Wilhelmina Ditt together in Milwaukee, WI on 16 November 1868. Juliette was named after her baptismal sponsors, Wilhelm (William) Heitmann and Julia Fueger, daugher of Max Fueger, the brewer in Milwaukee. William and Julia married in 1871. They had three daughters, Alma b. Jan 1872, Flora b. 1874 and Clara b. 8 Jan 1876.

The question becomes, is Margaretha Schreck related to Peter Schreck? And if they are realted, how? Obviously, there is the brewer connection between Peter and Max. The question is did they meet in Germany or the United States. There is a Peter Schreck listed in the 1855 Wisconsin census living in Milwaukee. Further research needs to establish the connection between Margaretha, Peter and Fredericka.
To further establish the familial relationship, the son of Julia Ditt and Theodore Eberle, Alfred Max Edward Eberle b. 8 Aug 1892 in Chicago, Cook, Illinois is named after Max Fueger and Edward Fueger. The Alfred may have come from Alfred Van Eweyk, the husband of Flora Heitmann. Alma Heitmann was the baptismal sponsor for Alfred Eberle.

Hannah Sewell b. 1807 New Brunswick, Canada

2009-01-04T23:43:00.000-05:00

Just who is Hannah Sewell from New Brunswick? Were her parents loyalists during the Revolutionary War and fled to New Brunswick? Were her parents pre-loyalists? The Sewell name and York County, New Brunswick are both indicators that Hannah is a descendant of Thomas Sewell, a loyalist. If her parents were loyalists, why did she marry the son of Revolutionary War patriot?

Hannah married William R. Leech (Leach) on 8 Dec 1827 in St. Mary's Parish, York County, New Brunswick by a James Harrison, esq., JP. Their marriage is recorded in the Bureau of Sante Fredericton NB. Hannah's father gave consent. Was her mother dead? Both William and Hannah were from St. Mary's Parish according to the marriage record. Why was William living in New Brunswick? And why did they move back to St. Albans, Somerset, Maine after they were married?

This is an area where I need help!

Some Walworth County, Wisconsin Marriages

2009-01-04T21:59:00.000-05:00

The following have been taken from "Index to Walworth County, Wisconsin, Marriages 1837-1907", Compiled by Judy Vezzetti. 2007.

Included will be associated families of Alfred Viles from Starks, Maine who moved to Walworth County, Wisconsin or others with the same name. "-" means there was a blank. “?”s were in the entries. My notes or comments will be in []s. Not responsible for errors.

Vol, Page, Date, Place
Groom Name, Residence, Birthplace, Parents
Bride Name, Birthplace, Parents

1 361 1849 Oct 12 Elkhorn
Adams, Gilbert C - ? –
Viles, Eunice W - [Maine] [Alfred, Thankful Norton]

2 36 1854 Jan 26 Geneva
Butler, Asa Geneva Me New Virginia [New Vineyard, Maine] Elijah, Nahoma [Naomi]
Farnsworth, Rosanah - _____, Saloma

5 145 1892 Oct 21 Whitewater
Bulter, Flavel B Whitewater, ME Bath Thomas, Phebe Winston
Bonney, Mattie NY Orleans Co William Yate, Elizabeth Sener

5 91 1891 Aug 8 Geneva Lake
Butler, George Lynn WI Lynn Richard, Ann Harden
Murphy, Catherine WI Lynn John, Helen Walshe

2 483 1861 Jan 1 Whitewater
Butler, George Koskonong ? -
Parker, Alma - L, M S

3 331 1878 May 23 Delavan
Butler, John W IA Missouri Valley IL Springfield Stephen, E A
Brainard, Sylvia C - L, M S

2 367 1866 Dec 31 Elkhorn
Richard, Butler Dane Co NY Jamestown Solomon, Mary
Salisbury, S Annette – Russell, Mary

3 378 1879 May 20 Geneva
Bulter, Samuel M NY Alden IL Chicago R N, A W
Montague, Olive L - Guerdon, Mary

2 229 1858 Mar 31 Spring Prairie
Chase, William H Spring Prairie OH Medina Co ___, Sally Bell Mrs.
Butler, Adelaide F – Charles, Lucinda

4 277 1887 Jul 13 Lyons
Vaughn, Alonzo Spring Prairie WI Lafayette David, Rebecca Densmore
Butler, Adelia E WI Racine Co Benonah, Emiline Randall

4 233 1886 Sep 29 Walworth
Monson, Donald Linn CT New Haven Alfred, Harriet Mygatt
Butler, Ella Ire Katharney Frederick, Ella Grey

3 315 1877 Dec 18 Elkhorn
Albrecht, Joseph W IL Bureau Co IL Bureau Co Joseph, Barbara
Butler, Jennie M – [either Industry or New Vineyard, Maine] Elijah, Naomi

2 482 1860 Dec 26 Delavan
Patchin, Daniel H Fox Lake NY Westfield H,M A
Butler, Lizzie A – Gaines, M

2 617 1862 Jan 1 –
Wells, Richard - ? –
Butler, Maria – –

1 306 1847 Dec 5 –
Lewis , Orrin - ? –
Butler, Mary - -

3 148 1873 Mar 29 Delavan
Miller, Jerome S Elkhorn MI T W, O
Butler, Mary – [either Industry or New Vineyard, Maine] ____, N [Elijah, Naomi]

2 115 1856 Jan 13 Geneva
Davis, William R Geneva NY Onondaga Co –
Butler, Mercy Louisa - Henry, Emily

4 65 1883 Jun 4 Delavan
Gibson, William W Can Man Winnipeg IL Henry George
Leach, [Leech] Mary E WI Delavan George, E G [Elizabeth G Willis]

2 491 1861 Feb 28 –
Olin, J H Spring Prairie ? –
Leach, N M - -

6 127 1904 Sep 21 Lake Geneva
Pufall, John IL Hebron WI August, Katherine Acker
Leech, Bertha IL Hebron Edward, Hattie Rowe

5 131 1892 Jul 7 Walworth
McLean, George IL Hennepin IL Hennepin George, Elizabeth Lincoln
Leech, Catherine IL Hennepin Joseph, Elizabeth Jerrow

3 62 1870 Dec 21 Geneva
Buchanan, Edwin IL Algonquin NY Allegany Co John, Betsey
Leech, Elizabeth Olive – Samuel, MaryAnn

1 158 1844 Sep 24 Elkhorn
Leach, A Z D - ? –
Utter, Sarah Ann - -

3 183 1881 Oct 20 Walworth
Leach, George B NY NY DeWitt, Maria Munn
Campbell, Olive B – Dennis, Rebecca Ayars

6 121 1904 May 14 –
Leach, Harry H – IL Hebron –
Williams, Maud WI Lake Geneva –

2 820 1866 Apr 19 Whitewater
Leach, Thomas f IA Shelby Co IA Shelby Co David, America
Locke, Mary E – M E, Harriet

3 94 1871 Nov 5 Sharon
Leach, Walter IL Belvidere IL Belvidere E J, Martha
Clark, Martha – Duncan, Nancy

6 44 1902 Jan 1 Brighton/Keno
Leach, William John Burlington WI Brighton John, Agnes McDonald
Husse, Julia Aut Jacob, Katherine Patke

4 184 1885 Nov 25 Delavan
Leech, George E Delavan WI Delavan George, Elizabeth Willis
Bristol, Lena L WI Delavan Ruben, Sabra Sheffield

3 311 1877 Dec 13 Whitewater
Congdon, Hanibal Jefferson Co NY Hanibal, Eliza
Sawyer, Anna – James, Elizabeth

3 150 1873 Jun 4 Sugar Creek
Shepard, Lynus Delavan NY J B
Sawyer, Clarinda Z – A, S M [Adna, Serena Norton Viles]

2 117 1856 Jan 31 Geneva
Clark, George Wright – NY Whitehall Norman, Lydia
Sawyer, Dorinda Filora – William, Theodosia

2 152 1856 Sep 25 Geneva
Irving, Thomas W Monroe Can John, Nichola
Sawyer, Esther Jane – William, Theodotia

3 364 1879 Jan 19 Delavan
Featherstone, William H Walworth WI Sharon William, Harriet
Sawyer, Frances E – Levi, Thankful [Viles]

5 476 1899 Feb 22 Lyons
Healy, Harlon G Lyons WI Lyons Charles, Caroline Stroup
Sawyer, Harriet M WI Waterford Robert, Ellen Reed

5 469 1899 Jan 8 Lyons
Ensign, Clarence D Lyons WI Spring Prairie Spencer, Aurelia Kidder
Sawyer, Jeanette M WI Waterford Robert, Ellen Reed

4 268 1887 May 11 Spring Prairie
Wetherbee, Thomas Lafayette WI Milwaukee Sylvanus, Elizabeth Jessup
Sawyer, Mattie T WI Waterford Robert, Ellen Reed

5 169 1893 Mar 15 Honey Creek
Frost, Charles E Rochester Ger Pongdorf John, Mary Weideman
Sawyer, May D WI Rochester Albert, Ruth Buck

3 481 1881 Oct 9 Walworth
Spensly, Dallas Walworth WI Walworth Robert Eliza
Sawyer, Orre –[WI Walworth Co] Lewis [Levi], Thankful [Viles]

5 151 1892 Nov 23 Honey Creek
Jardine, Gilbert IL Chicago Can ON Darlington Gilbert, Mary Steele
Sawyer, Sarah ME Hodgter Nathaniel BUCK, Elizabeth Quake

5 367 1896 Dec 31 East Troy
Dickerman, Arthur Mancel East Troy WI East Troy Franklin, Mary Alter
Sawyer, Susie WI East Troy Cephas, Maria Bulman

1 367 1849 Nov 10 Elkhorn
Sawyer Adna - ? -
Horn, Serena [Serena Viles, widow Benjamin Horn] – [Maine] – [Alfred Sr., Thankful Norton]

3 233 1875 Oct 14 Geneva
Sawyer Albert Alvah – NY Canton Alvah, Louiza
Curtis, Fannie Caroline – Louis

3 224 1875 Jun 16 Richmond
Sawyer, Alfred Viles Sugar Creek WI Spring Prairie Adna, Serena [Viles]
Stone, Emma Henrietta – Henry, Sarah

3 341 1878 Sep 26 Spring Prairie
Sawyer, Alonzo Racine Co NY Columbia Co John, Ester
Neff, Alice E – John Matteson, Amentha

4 30 1882 Sep 28 Walworth
Sawyer, Benjamin W Walworth WI Walworth Levi, Thanksful Viles
Hunt, Stella M WI Walworth Charles, Amanda Grinman

6 85 1903 Apr 12 Darien
Sawyer, Charles George Darien IL Chicago A V [Alfred Viles], Emma Stone
Dougall, Georgie May WI Sharon George, Ida Williams

1 492 1851 Dec 25 Spring Prairie
Sawyer, George C Spring Prairie ? –
Utter, Ester – -–

3 472 1881 Jun 19 Delavan
Sawyer, George H Walworth MN Levi, Lovina [Thankful L. Viles]
Morgan, Elizabeth – William, Sarah

1 217 1846 Jan 1 –
Sawyer, Jerome O Troy ? –
Cobb, Lucy B – –

2 41 1854 Mar 21 –
Sawyer, Levi Richmond MA Abel, Betsey
Viles, Thankful – – [Alfred Sr., Thankful Norton]

2 415 1867 Oct 30 Delavan
Sawyer, Silas J Clinton NY Monroe Co Horace, Nancy
Passage, Eunice J – George, Alla

3 59 1870 Sep 22 Geneva
Sawyer, Wallace Geneva VT Brandon Harrison, Ellen
Quinconnon, Nellie – Michael, Bridget

5 178 1893 Jun 13 East Troy
Sawyer Wayne East Troy WI East Troy Cephas, Maria
Elkins Villa Bella WI East Troy Charles, Lucy

4 319 1888 Mar 15 Sharon
Sawyer, Zebulon V Sharon WI Sugar Creek Levi, Thankful Viles
Ellison, Elizabeth Swe Dakland Ellis, Mary Oleson

3 382 1879 Jul 22 Elkhorn
Clark, Isaac Galesville ME Salem Isaac, Hannah
Vile, E [Viles, Euphralia] – Alfred [Jr.], Abigal [Abigail Holbrook]

4 325 1888 Apr 19 Elkhorn
Muzzy, William W Elkhorn NH Hanover John, Ruth Withington
Viles, Abigail W ME Storkes [Starks] Solomon Holbrooke, Iranda Young [widow of Alfred Jr.]

2 107 1855 Nov 3 –
Porter, Alanson G Marquette Co ? –
Viles, Clarissa F – [Maine] – [Joseph, Eleanor Heald]

3 299 1877 Aug 14 Elkhorn
Durant, Pliny Ayers IL St. Charles IL St. Charles Samuel Lucy
Viles, Eunice M – [WI Walworth Co] Alfred [Jr.] Abigail [Holbrook]

1 361 1849 Elkhorn
Adams, Gilbert C - ? –
Viles, Eunice W – [Maine] – [Alfred Sr., Thankful Norton]

3 114 1872 May 22 Elkhorn
Niskern, Alexander Delavan NY Schoharie Jacob, Betsey
Viles, Euphrasia F. – [Maine] Alfred [Jr.], Abagail [Abigail]

2 254 1858 Oct 31 Elkhorn
Hay, Washington Elkhorn ? –
Viles, Melvina A – [Maine] – [Joseph, Eleanor Heald]

2 269 1858 Richmond
Cox, James Richmond Eng Jeffry, Susan
Viles, Minerva J – Nelson COOK, Lydia [widow of Zebulon B. Viles]

2 41 1854 Mar 21 –
Sawyer Levi Richmond MA Abel, Betsey
Viles, Thankful – [Maine] – [Alfred Sr., Thankful Norton]

4 11 1882 Feb 22 Elkhorn
Viles George D IA Marshalltown IA Davenport Harold GUNNERSON, Kari [A H Viles, Charlotte]
Golden, Helen L IL Chicago Peter, Ingelbrie Halverson

2 81 1854 Sep 26 Geneva
Viles, Gus G Geneva ME Somerset Co Joseph, Eleanor [Heald]
Farnsworth, Julia Elvira – Z, Zeroma

2009-01-04T17:00:00.000-05:00

Genealogy Inspiration

2009-01-04T16:18:00.000-05:00

When my much loved grandmother died, I wanted to do something special in her memory. My mother and I were going through pictures that belonged to my grandmother. There were several people that neither of us knew and some that we did. However, there were many, many photos of my grandmother as a child. From them, I could tell that she was loved and very much.

Photography has been a hobby of mine since college and intrigues me. A photo of a person can tell so much about them if you will just observe. So I added a little of my creativity and a memory album of my grandparents lives' came to life. It was fun to put together a picture story that told who they were as young children, how they grew up to become adults, and finally raise children and have grandchildren. To put things into perspective, I added a brief family tree. But my grandmother's grandmother, Julia Ditt, was a mystery. What was her actual birth and death date? Who were her parents? Why did the family have information about the other branches but not the Ditts?

The hook was set and I was reeled into the fascinating world of family research better known as genealogy. So if you share this nutty passion, are a cousin who has stumbled upon this blog, have information that I might be interested in, please email me or post a comment.