One of the best websites for family history researchers is Find A Grave. For those of you not familiar with the site, it contains information on people interred in thousands of cemeteries around the world. In some cases, burial places are unknown, but biographical information is given anyway. Links are provided to spouses, parents and children. An asterisk notes "calculated relationships" among family members.
Birth and death dates and places are given. A bio is also included. It may be a sentence or two, a published obituary, or several paragraphs about the subject. Photos of the person, the cemetery where he/she is buried or tombstone [if available] may be included. Documents [birth or death certificate, marriage record, etc.] may also be included.
The name of the person contributing the biographical info and the photos or documents is also given.
Find A Grave is beta-testing a new/updated site, which you can access from each page.
Entries will turn up on search engines or you can go to the site and enter what you know: name, birth, death, location [country, state/province, county/shire/parish, cemetery info and so forth].
You are at the mercy of the information provided, however. The contributor may have access to inaccurate details on the subjects. You will need to verify the vital statistics and biographical information, as well as conforming the spouses, parents and children. It's always a good idea to have multiple sources for a date or event, anyway.
Find A Grave has provided me with pictures of gravestones of ancestors and relatives. Clues to where to look for additional information have been frequent. All in all, it is a great site - treated with proper precaution.
I'll offer a few cautionary tales in the next post.
Saturday, September 30, 2017
Friday, September 29, 2017
Thomas Crail Jr. & Elizabeth Berry
Thomas is fairly grounded in documentation. His will was recorded in Pendleton Co., KY in 1809. Thomas appears on the Campbell Co., KY tax lists beginning in 1795. He owned 150 acres on the North Licking River. All of these items can be verified.
Thomas' will named his wife, Elizabeth and sons, Wilson, Absalom, James and John. Also named were his son-in-law Edward Downing and grandchildren: Eliza, Sally, Elizabeth and Polly. Marriage records give us the name of his daughter, Elizabeth. One of the witnesses, Joel Berry, leads us to Elizabeth Crail's parentage. [Spoiler alert! Elizabeth and Joel were siblings.]
The exact date of Elizabeth's death is not known. It is estimated to be about 1840. Both Thomas and Elizabeth were interred in the Thrasher Farm Cemetery at Grassy Creek in Pendleton Co.
As Thomas Crail's will states, the couple had five children:
(1) John: c1775
(2) Wilson: c1777
(3) Absalom: c1779
(4) James: 24 Dec 1783 [cousin, James, born exactly one year earlier]
(5) Elizabeth: 1780-82
Thomas' will named his wife, Elizabeth and sons, Wilson, Absalom, James and John. Also named were his son-in-law Edward Downing and grandchildren: Eliza, Sally, Elizabeth and Polly. Marriage records give us the name of his daughter, Elizabeth. One of the witnesses, Joel Berry, leads us to Elizabeth Crail's parentage. [Spoiler alert! Elizabeth and Joel were siblings.]
The exact date of Elizabeth's death is not known. It is estimated to be about 1840. Both Thomas and Elizabeth were interred in the Thrasher Farm Cemetery at Grassy Creek in Pendleton Co.
As Thomas Crail's will states, the couple had five children:
(1) John: c1775
(2) Wilson: c1777
(3) Absalom: c1779
(4) James: 24 Dec 1783 [cousin, James, born exactly one year earlier]
(5) Elizabeth: 1780-82
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Elizabeth Ann Jane Wilson, wife of Thomas Crail Sr.
I discussed the wife of Thomas Crail a couple of days ago. I decided to offer a little more depth today. Some family trees have her listed as Elizabeth Ann Wilson, others as Jane Wilson, Elizabeth Ann "Jane" Wilson, or Jane Elizabeth Wilson.
Four options are given for her father: Nathaniel Michael Wilson, Nathaniel Wilson, James Wilson or unknown Wilson.
Nathaniel Michael Wilson was born in Massachusetts in 1653 and died there in 1721. There is no evidence that he left home for Pennsylvania to have a daughter there. Considering most sources, all undocumented, give Mrs. Crail's birth year as 1724, Nathaniel Michael is ruled out by being deceased at the time.
Nathaniel Michael did have a son, James, by his 2nd wife. James was born in 1696. He was of the right age to have a daughter in 1724, but, again, nothing suggests he migrated to Pennsylvania.
A few trees show this James as being born in New Jersey in 1697. That would be close enough to Chester or Delaware Co., PA to be the father.
Some of the trees offer an alternative father, James Wilson, b. c1700, with no further details.
In several of the Nathaniel trees, his mother and grandmother have the same name, Hannah Craft or Crafts. Possible, but unlikely!
Lacking any documentation that suggests a Wilson from MA moved to PA and fathered a daughter named Elizabeth, Jane, etc., I believe the Nathaniel Wilson line can be removed from Mrs. Crail.
Based on the migratory patterns of the late 17th & early 18th centuries, I would tend to think Wilson was a native of Virginia, Maryland or Pennsylvania. Some New England families did move to NY, NJ & PA, but that tended to include a move farther West [western PA or OH.]
Now what was Mrs. Crail's given name? Elizabeth Ann, Jane, Jane Elizabeth? Jane was not a common nickname for Elizabeth or Ann to the best of my knowledge. I figure "Jane" was added to Elizabeth Ann to cover bases.
Since no evidence has yet to surface identifying Mrs. Crail's name, it is all conjecture at this point.
For now, I'm reasonably comfortably with Jane, daughter of James Wilson, marrying Thomas Crail.
Four options are given for her father: Nathaniel Michael Wilson, Nathaniel Wilson, James Wilson or unknown Wilson.
Nathaniel Michael Wilson was born in Massachusetts in 1653 and died there in 1721. There is no evidence that he left home for Pennsylvania to have a daughter there. Considering most sources, all undocumented, give Mrs. Crail's birth year as 1724, Nathaniel Michael is ruled out by being deceased at the time.
Nathaniel Michael did have a son, James, by his 2nd wife. James was born in 1696. He was of the right age to have a daughter in 1724, but, again, nothing suggests he migrated to Pennsylvania.
A few trees show this James as being born in New Jersey in 1697. That would be close enough to Chester or Delaware Co., PA to be the father.
Some of the trees offer an alternative father, James Wilson, b. c1700, with no further details.
In several of the Nathaniel trees, his mother and grandmother have the same name, Hannah Craft or Crafts. Possible, but unlikely!
Lacking any documentation that suggests a Wilson from MA moved to PA and fathered a daughter named Elizabeth, Jane, etc., I believe the Nathaniel Wilson line can be removed from Mrs. Crail.
Based on the migratory patterns of the late 17th & early 18th centuries, I would tend to think Wilson was a native of Virginia, Maryland or Pennsylvania. Some New England families did move to NY, NJ & PA, but that tended to include a move farther West [western PA or OH.]
Now what was Mrs. Crail's given name? Elizabeth Ann, Jane, Jane Elizabeth? Jane was not a common nickname for Elizabeth or Ann to the best of my knowledge. I figure "Jane" was added to Elizabeth Ann to cover bases.
Since no evidence has yet to surface identifying Mrs. Crail's name, it is all conjecture at this point.
For now, I'm reasonably comfortably with Jane, daughter of James Wilson, marrying Thomas Crail.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Children of Thomas and Jane [Wilson] Crail
The various family group records for Thomas and Jane show a mix of children. They also show an incorrect place of birth, at least for the time the kids were born - Harford Co., MD. Harford was not formed until 1774, when most of the Crail issue had reached adulthood. Prior to that the area was part of Baltimore Co. [The county appears as Hartford in some cases. Hartford is in Connecticut.]
Several of the Crail kids stayed in Harford. It appears that some of the boys ended up in western Pennsylvania, as well. Little, or no, information exists for several of the children, especially the girls.
Here are the "possible children" of Thomas and Jane.
1) Thomas Jr. = c1743 Frederick Co., MD - 23 Apr 1809 Pendleton Co., KY
m. Elizabeth Berry
10 Apr 1809 will names wife Elizabeth, sons Wilson, Absalom, James, John & children of daughter Elizabeth Downing, dec'd.
On muster roll of Capt. Charles Reed's 4th Battalion Washington Co., PA Militia 1781
1790 Census - That part of Washington Co. that became Allegheny Co., PA
He was in Campbell Co., KY by 1795 [tax list]
14 Apr 1797, purchased 150 acres in Grant's Lick from John Grant, in what became Pendleton Co.
On Pendleton Co. tax list 1801-1808.
One of earliest settlers in area.
2) John Boggs = 3 May 1745 MD* - 3 Apr 1839 Raccoon Twp., Beaver Co., PA
m. Althea Body
Served 2 yrs. with Capt. Waggoner's Co., 12th VA Regt., enlisted at Fort Pitt.
Rec'd pension 28 Aug 1829.
Acquired land in Washington Co., PA on 15 Dec 1778.
1790 Census - That part of Wash. Co. that became Allegheny Co.
3) Mary = c1749 MD* - ???
m. 16 Nov 1778 Frederick Co., MD
4) Phillip = c1750 MD* - 1 Oct 1793 Harford Co., MD
m. Margaret Hill Spencer
Deer Creek Hundred tax list 1775-76.
In Annapolis, MD 1785.
Pvt. in Capt. Alexander Ribon's Co. #12, Harford militia.
Schoolmaster.
Died from bite of a copperhead snake.
5) Richard = c1751 MD* - 1824 or 1827 Hardin Co., KY [birth also given as 1765]
m. Ann Brashear - c1785; Nancy Brownfield - 1796
Buried South Fork Baptist Church Cemetery, LaRue Co., KY [Hardin Co. at time of death].
Signed Oath of Fidelity in Frederick Co., MD.
Served in Washington Co., PA Militia.
Crail farm about 2.5 miles from Hodgenville, KY [now LaRue Co.]
Thomas Lincoln was supposed to have rented land from the Crails.
6) Jane = c1751 MD* - ????
7) Alice = c1752 MD* - ????
8) Elizabeth = c1753 MD* - ????
9) William = c1755 MD* - ????
m. Mary Lewis - 13 Jun 1785 Evangelical Lutheran Church, Frederick, Frederick Co., MD
Served with Maryland troops 1776-1783.
Rec'd 100 acre land grant.
10) James = c1760 MD* - 1790 KY
m. Elizabeth Bennington
11) Peter = 175? MD - ????
Signed Oath of Fidelity in Frederick Co., MD 1777
Served in Frederick Co. militia 1775-76.
1790 Frederick Co. census.
I don't know for sure if he fits the family, although Peter appears on a couple of Trees.
*All but Thomas were supposed to have been born in what became Harford Co. Several of the children maintained connections with Frederick Co.
Several of the Crail kids stayed in Harford. It appears that some of the boys ended up in western Pennsylvania, as well. Little, or no, information exists for several of the children, especially the girls.
Here are the "possible children" of Thomas and Jane.
1) Thomas Jr. = c1743 Frederick Co., MD - 23 Apr 1809 Pendleton Co., KY
m. Elizabeth Berry
10 Apr 1809 will names wife Elizabeth, sons Wilson, Absalom, James, John & children of daughter Elizabeth Downing, dec'd.
On muster roll of Capt. Charles Reed's 4th Battalion Washington Co., PA Militia 1781
1790 Census - That part of Washington Co. that became Allegheny Co., PA
He was in Campbell Co., KY by 1795 [tax list]
14 Apr 1797, purchased 150 acres in Grant's Lick from John Grant, in what became Pendleton Co.
On Pendleton Co. tax list 1801-1808.
One of earliest settlers in area.
2) John Boggs = 3 May 1745 MD* - 3 Apr 1839 Raccoon Twp., Beaver Co., PA
m. Althea Body
Served 2 yrs. with Capt. Waggoner's Co., 12th VA Regt., enlisted at Fort Pitt.
Rec'd pension 28 Aug 1829.
Acquired land in Washington Co., PA on 15 Dec 1778.
1790 Census - That part of Wash. Co. that became Allegheny Co.
3) Mary = c1749 MD* - ???
m. 16 Nov 1778 Frederick Co., MD
4) Phillip = c1750 MD* - 1 Oct 1793 Harford Co., MD
m. Margaret Hill Spencer
Deer Creek Hundred tax list 1775-76.
In Annapolis, MD 1785.
Pvt. in Capt. Alexander Ribon's Co. #12, Harford militia.
Schoolmaster.
Died from bite of a copperhead snake.
5) Richard = c1751 MD* - 1824 or 1827 Hardin Co., KY [birth also given as 1765]
m. Ann Brashear - c1785; Nancy Brownfield - 1796
Buried South Fork Baptist Church Cemetery, LaRue Co., KY [Hardin Co. at time of death].
Signed Oath of Fidelity in Frederick Co., MD.
Served in Washington Co., PA Militia.
Crail farm about 2.5 miles from Hodgenville, KY [now LaRue Co.]
Thomas Lincoln was supposed to have rented land from the Crails.
6) Jane = c1751 MD* - ????
7) Alice = c1752 MD* - ????
8) Elizabeth = c1753 MD* - ????
9) William = c1755 MD* - ????
m. Mary Lewis - 13 Jun 1785 Evangelical Lutheran Church, Frederick, Frederick Co., MD
Served with Maryland troops 1776-1783.
Rec'd 100 acre land grant.
10) James = c1760 MD* - 1790 KY
m. Elizabeth Bennington
11) Peter = 175? MD - ????
Signed Oath of Fidelity in Frederick Co., MD 1777
Served in Frederick Co. militia 1775-76.
1790 Frederick Co. census.
I don't know for sure if he fits the family, although Peter appears on a couple of Trees.
*All but Thomas were supposed to have been born in what became Harford Co. Several of the children maintained connections with Frederick Co.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
The Origins of Thomas Crail Sr.
I am going to begin the Crail line with Thomas Sr. because the details on the various men who have been named as his father are sketchy, at best. A John Creal has been one of the most common "fathers" of Thomas. He was born in 1656, married Ann _____ by 1676 and fathered his only son, Thomas in 1720. John was from England, emigrated to either Scotland or Virginia before 1685. His son was born in Scotland. Thomas Creel/Creal and Hannah Kenner of Scotland are also commonly appear as parents. At least their births are reasonable, about 1695 and 1700, in Scotland, England or Ireland.
(1)Thomas Crail Sr. is regularly reported as 1720. One report has his birth as 1685 and another as 1726.Virginia, Westmoreland Co., VA, Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Mann appear as places of birth; however, Scotland is the most common origin given. Nearly every report has Thomas' death as about 1790 in Harford Co., MD.
In all likelihood, Thomas Crail was born in Scotland about 1720 and died about 1790 in Harford Co., MD.
(2) Elizabeth Ann Wilson, Elizabeth Ann "Jane" Wilson and Jane Wilson are names given for Thomas' wife. She is consistently shown as born in Pennsylvania, generally Chester Co., in 1724. Her death appears as early as 1741, but generally 1770. The location is given as Richmond, Chesterfield, VA or Raccoon Creek, Beaver Co., PA. If Thomas survived Jane, it is moe likely that she died in Maryland. Many reports give her father as Nathaniel Wilson, James Nathaniel Wilson or James Wilson. In examining the information given on Nathaniel Wilson, it appears that this Wilson line was based in Massachusetts and never made it as far south as Pennsylvania. Nathaniel seems to be a convenient add-on for Mrs. Crail's father. Jame Nathaniel? Somebody realized Nathaniel didn't fit and mixed Nathaniel and James into one person. I also think that Elizabeth Ann "Jane" is a similar convenience.
The wife of Thomas Crail was probably Jane Wilson, born c1724 in Pennsylvania [probably Chester Co.] and died about 1770, possibly in Raccoon Creek, Beaver Co., PA. Jane's father was James Wilson.
(3) Children: In various combinations, the Crail children were Thomas [c1743], John Boggs [c1745], Mary [c1749], Phillip [c1750], Jane [c1751?], Richard [1751?], Alice [c1752], Elizabeth [c1753], William [c1755] and James [c1760]. All were reportedly born in Maryland; either Frederick or Harford County.
Dealing in the shadowy region of speculation, Thomas arrived in Pennsylvania or Maryland before 1740. He probably came from Scotland with his family, some reports claim he came over with a brother named Samuel. Thomas met and married Jane Wilson by about 1741. The couple seems to have settled in Harford Co., MD by the mid-1740s and spent the remainder of their lives there.
I could be wrong!
(1)Thomas Crail Sr. is regularly reported as 1720. One report has his birth as 1685 and another as 1726.Virginia, Westmoreland Co., VA, Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Mann appear as places of birth; however, Scotland is the most common origin given. Nearly every report has Thomas' death as about 1790 in Harford Co., MD.
In all likelihood, Thomas Crail was born in Scotland about 1720 and died about 1790 in Harford Co., MD.
(2) Elizabeth Ann Wilson, Elizabeth Ann "Jane" Wilson and Jane Wilson are names given for Thomas' wife. She is consistently shown as born in Pennsylvania, generally Chester Co., in 1724. Her death appears as early as 1741, but generally 1770. The location is given as Richmond, Chesterfield, VA or Raccoon Creek, Beaver Co., PA. If Thomas survived Jane, it is moe likely that she died in Maryland. Many reports give her father as Nathaniel Wilson, James Nathaniel Wilson or James Wilson. In examining the information given on Nathaniel Wilson, it appears that this Wilson line was based in Massachusetts and never made it as far south as Pennsylvania. Nathaniel seems to be a convenient add-on for Mrs. Crail's father. Jame Nathaniel? Somebody realized Nathaniel didn't fit and mixed Nathaniel and James into one person. I also think that Elizabeth Ann "Jane" is a similar convenience.
The wife of Thomas Crail was probably Jane Wilson, born c1724 in Pennsylvania [probably Chester Co.] and died about 1770, possibly in Raccoon Creek, Beaver Co., PA. Jane's father was James Wilson.
(3) Children: In various combinations, the Crail children were Thomas [c1743], John Boggs [c1745], Mary [c1749], Phillip [c1750], Jane [c1751?], Richard [1751?], Alice [c1752], Elizabeth [c1753], William [c1755] and James [c1760]. All were reportedly born in Maryland; either Frederick or Harford County.
Dealing in the shadowy region of speculation, Thomas arrived in Pennsylvania or Maryland before 1740. He probably came from Scotland with his family, some reports claim he came over with a brother named Samuel. Thomas met and married Jane Wilson by about 1741. The couple seems to have settled in Harford Co., MD by the mid-1740s and spent the remainder of their lives there.
I could be wrong!
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Determining Place of Birth
Census records [1850-1940] can be a big help in identifying where family members were born, provided they [or the person providing the data] gave the correct place. I have seen two or three different birthplaces given for an individual in the census. The goal then becomes finding a record that verifies the correct birthplace.
Trying to locate records for earlier ancestors, those who died before 1850, can be a challenge. 1880-1930 censuses can help, if the enumerator gets the accurate information. Parents' birthplaces are given for those censuses. The same fallacy can occur as with 1850-1870. What if John Williams doesn't know for sure where his parents were born? Foreign born locations can be specific or general.
My ancestors born in Baden also gave Germany as place of birth.
Look for records [deeds, wills, taxes, etc.] that place a family member in a certain place at a certain time. If you have a family with 5 children born between 1770 and 1780, deeds and other records can narrow the kids' birthplaces.
John Williams buys land in Bucks Co., PA in 1769, 1772 and 1773. He sells the land in 1774. He then buys land in Frederick Co, VA in 1776. John's will is recorded there in 1788. Williams has the following children: John Jr. [b. 1768], Sarah [b. 1770], Ann [b. 1772], Samuel [b. 1775], Mary [b. 1777] and Joseph [b. 1779].
Deeds show him in Bucks Co. from 1769-1774 and Frederick Co. from 1776-1788. Sarah and Ann were probably born in Bucks Co.; while Mary and Joseph were born in Frederick Co. The 1769 deed may tell where John had lived prior to 1769, giving you John Jr.'s birthplace. As for Samuel? He may have been born in Bucks Co. or on the trip to Virginia. Keep digging!
Trying to locate records for earlier ancestors, those who died before 1850, can be a challenge. 1880-1930 censuses can help, if the enumerator gets the accurate information. Parents' birthplaces are given for those censuses. The same fallacy can occur as with 1850-1870. What if John Williams doesn't know for sure where his parents were born? Foreign born locations can be specific or general.
My ancestors born in Baden also gave Germany as place of birth.
Look for records [deeds, wills, taxes, etc.] that place a family member in a certain place at a certain time. If you have a family with 5 children born between 1770 and 1780, deeds and other records can narrow the kids' birthplaces.
John Williams buys land in Bucks Co., PA in 1769, 1772 and 1773. He sells the land in 1774. He then buys land in Frederick Co, VA in 1776. John's will is recorded there in 1788. Williams has the following children: John Jr. [b. 1768], Sarah [b. 1770], Ann [b. 1772], Samuel [b. 1775], Mary [b. 1777] and Joseph [b. 1779].
Deeds show him in Bucks Co. from 1769-1774 and Frederick Co. from 1776-1788. Sarah and Ann were probably born in Bucks Co.; while Mary and Joseph were born in Frederick Co. The 1769 deed may tell where John had lived prior to 1769, giving you John Jr.'s birthplace. As for Samuel? He may have been born in Bucks Co. or on the trip to Virginia. Keep digging!
Saturday, September 23, 2017
Family Tracking Census Charts
In yesterday's post, I had a variation of a family tracking chart to use with census records. I first ran into the charts at a genealogy conference a few years ago. It is easy to make up your own. Here are a couple of ideas.
(1) 1790 - 1840 chart #1: list the names of family members and their years of birth down the left side. Across the top, make a column for each census. Under each census list the age groups given for each year.You can mark each space for your family members.
(2) 1790 - 1840 chart #2: list names and births down the left. Across the top, list the census year. In each column write the age of the family member for that census. Mark the space for that person as they are located. [this was used in the post]
(3) 1850 -1940 chart: you can extend the charts above to include the later censuses or make new ones in the same format.
Beware of mistakes in the census records! Individuals or families may be missed or duplicated. The 1800-1840 census enumerators used "tick marks" or numbers under each age group. It was not uncommon for them to put a mark in the wrong column!
(1) 1790 - 1840 chart #1: list the names of family members and their years of birth down the left side. Across the top, make a column for each census. Under each census list the age groups given for each year.You can mark each space for your family members.
(2) 1790 - 1840 chart #2: list names and births down the left. Across the top, list the census year. In each column write the age of the family member for that census. Mark the space for that person as they are located. [this was used in the post]
(3) 1850 -1940 chart: you can extend the charts above to include the later censuses or make new ones in the same format.
Beware of mistakes in the census records! Individuals or families may be missed or duplicated. The 1800-1840 census enumerators used "tick marks" or numbers under each age group. It was not uncommon for them to put a mark in the wrong column!
Friday, September 22, 2017
Tracking a Crail Family in the Census
Census records can be a valuable tool in tracking a family's movement and putting together a family group sheet. Case in point, the family of James Berry Crail.
The 1800-1840 censuses are flawed in that they do not list names of the family or ages. These records break the family down by age groups [5 or 10 year periods] for males, females and slaves. The head of the household is given.
The children of James and Margaret Crail began marrying during the 1830s. Only Margaret, the youngest, failed to marry. James [b. 1783] and Margaret [b. 1784/5] were married about 1808. So, the 1810 census would be the first to look at and 1840 the last. The children and their families should be listed by themselves from 1850 on. [Except for my James B. Jr., of course.
1810 Pendleton Co., KY - James Crale [3m 0-10] [1m 10-15] [1m 26-44] [1f 45+]
1820 Harrison Co., IN - James Crale [2m 0-10] [1m 10-15] [1m 26-44] [3f 0-10] [1f 10-15] [1f 26-44] [8m slaves under 14] The index left out the 1f 26-44, but that column was "ticked off" on the sheet.
1830 Washington Co., IN - James B. Crade [1m 5-9] [1m 10-14] [1m 15-19] [1m 20-29] [1m 40-49]
[1f 0-5] [1f 5-9] [1f 10-14] [1f 15-19] [1f 40-49]
1840 Shelby Co., IN - James B. Crail [1m 15-19] [1m 20-29] [1m 50-59] [1f 10-14] [1f 50-59]
We'll look at 1810 first. James should have been about 27 [b. 1783], Margaret 25/6 [b. 1784/5] and James Jr. 1 [b. c1809]
Results? 3m 0-10, 1m 10-15, 1m 26-44, 1f 45+ Should be 1m 0-10 1m 26-44 1 f 26-44.
No explanation for the discrepancies, other than the enumerator misfired or other family members were living with the Crails.
From what I have pieced together, the known family of James and Margaret was as follows: [*accounted for in census]
name est. born 1820 1830 1840 married
James B. Sr. [b. 1783] 37* 47* 57* c1808
Margaret [b. 1784] 36* 46* 56* " "
James B. Jr. [b. 1809] 11* 21* 31 c1832
Thomas J. [b. 1811] 9* 19* 29 c1836
Mary W. [b. 1813] 7* 17* 27 c1834
Absalom [b. 1816] 4* 14* 24* c1844
Senar Jane [b. 1820] 0* 10* 20 c1837
Robert R. [b. 1822] - 8* 18* c1845
Margaret [b. 1828] - 2* 12* dnm
Unaccounted for in 1820 and 1830 is a daughter born between 1810-1820. She may have died between 1830-1840 or married and has not been accounted for. Senar Jane married in Dearborn Co., so it is possible that the girl married in Ohio or Indiana.
The 1800-1840 censuses are flawed in that they do not list names of the family or ages. These records break the family down by age groups [5 or 10 year periods] for males, females and slaves. The head of the household is given.
The children of James and Margaret Crail began marrying during the 1830s. Only Margaret, the youngest, failed to marry. James [b. 1783] and Margaret [b. 1784/5] were married about 1808. So, the 1810 census would be the first to look at and 1840 the last. The children and their families should be listed by themselves from 1850 on. [Except for my James B. Jr., of course.
1810 Pendleton Co., KY - James Crale [3m 0-10] [1m 10-15] [1m 26-44] [1f 45+]
1820 Harrison Co., IN - James Crale [2m 0-10] [1m 10-15] [1m 26-44] [3f 0-10] [1f 10-15] [1f 26-44] [8m slaves under 14] The index left out the 1f 26-44, but that column was "ticked off" on the sheet.
1830 Washington Co., IN - James B. Crade [1m 5-9] [1m 10-14] [1m 15-19] [1m 20-29] [1m 40-49]
[1f 0-5] [1f 5-9] [1f 10-14] [1f 15-19] [1f 40-49]
1840 Shelby Co., IN - James B. Crail [1m 15-19] [1m 20-29] [1m 50-59] [1f 10-14] [1f 50-59]
We'll look at 1810 first. James should have been about 27 [b. 1783], Margaret 25/6 [b. 1784/5] and James Jr. 1 [b. c1809]
Results? 3m 0-10, 1m 10-15, 1m 26-44, 1f 45+ Should be 1m 0-10 1m 26-44 1 f 26-44.
No explanation for the discrepancies, other than the enumerator misfired or other family members were living with the Crails.
From what I have pieced together, the known family of James and Margaret was as follows: [*accounted for in census]
name est. born 1820 1830 1840 married
James B. Sr. [b. 1783] 37* 47* 57* c1808
Margaret [b. 1784] 36* 46* 56* " "
James B. Jr. [b. 1809] 11* 21* 31 c1832
Thomas J. [b. 1811] 9* 19* 29 c1836
Mary W. [b. 1813] 7* 17* 27 c1834
Absalom [b. 1816] 4* 14* 24* c1844
Senar Jane [b. 1820] 0* 10* 20 c1837
Robert R. [b. 1822] - 8* 18* c1845
Margaret [b. 1828] - 2* 12* dnm
Unaccounted for in 1820 and 1830 is a daughter born between 1810-1820. She may have died between 1830-1840 or married and has not been accounted for. Senar Jane married in Dearborn Co., so it is possible that the girl married in Ohio or Indiana.
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Evaluating information on the early Crails
Family info collected by historian/genealogist E.E. Barton in Pendleton Co., KY [available on CD] includes a letter that offers the following tidbits [2nd-hand] from a Crail lawyer/researcher in LA:
1) John Boggs Crail's mother was Lady Campbell, daughter of the Duke of Argyll.
2) John, on his father's side, was a direct lineal descendant of the Duke of Marlborough.
3) John's father was a prominent landowner, owner of Castle Crail in Scotland.
4) John arrived in America in 1763 and served two years with the 12th Virginia Regiment during the Revolutionary War.
Cool stuff, huh?
1) John Boggs Crail was the son of Thomas Crail Sr. and Elizabeth / Jane Wilson. Unless the missus had an earlier marriage to a Campbell back in Scotland, that Argyll connection is shot! The parents posted for her on Find A Grave were from Massachusetts - that is also a bit suspect. Value of info: marginal, at best.
2) John's father, Thomas, was reportedly born in Scotland about 1720. Thomas' father has been identified as various Creels, Creals and Crails. You'd think the family of the Dukes of Marlbourogh would keep better records of their male line! Value of info: marginal, at best.
3) According to Wikipedia, Castle Crail was in ruins by 1563, there wasn't much to own. Since the castle had been in ruins for about 160 years, by the time John's father was born, we can eliminate that bit. The odds of a prominent land owner cashing it all in for a gamble in America, are slim at best.Value of info: less than marginal.
4) John was born in Maryland, not Scotland, in 1745. He did serve in the 12th Virginia. [Rev. War pension file]. Value of info: adequate.
I don't know where Lawyer Crail's info came from, but someone in the family had a desire for a "prominent family" and invented same!
1) John Boggs Crail's mother was Lady Campbell, daughter of the Duke of Argyll.
2) John, on his father's side, was a direct lineal descendant of the Duke of Marlborough.
3) John's father was a prominent landowner, owner of Castle Crail in Scotland.
4) John arrived in America in 1763 and served two years with the 12th Virginia Regiment during the Revolutionary War.
Cool stuff, huh?
1) John Boggs Crail was the son of Thomas Crail Sr. and Elizabeth / Jane Wilson. Unless the missus had an earlier marriage to a Campbell back in Scotland, that Argyll connection is shot! The parents posted for her on Find A Grave were from Massachusetts - that is also a bit suspect. Value of info: marginal, at best.
2) John's father, Thomas, was reportedly born in Scotland about 1720. Thomas' father has been identified as various Creels, Creals and Crails. You'd think the family of the Dukes of Marlbourogh would keep better records of their male line! Value of info: marginal, at best.
3) According to Wikipedia, Castle Crail was in ruins by 1563, there wasn't much to own. Since the castle had been in ruins for about 160 years, by the time John's father was born, we can eliminate that bit. The odds of a prominent land owner cashing it all in for a gamble in America, are slim at best.Value of info: less than marginal.
4) John was born in Maryland, not Scotland, in 1745. He did serve in the 12th Virginia. [Rev. War pension file]. Value of info: adequate.
I don't know where Lawyer Crail's info came from, but someone in the family had a desire for a "prominent family" and invented same!
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
The Will of Thomas Crail: 10 April 1809
Now we begin with documentation and linking it to family line. First up, the will of Thomas Crail.
Thomas Crail of Pendleton, KY is believed to be the father of James B. Crail, Sr. and husband of Elizabeth Berry. Thomas made his will on 10 April 1809 [Deed Book B, p. 243] naming his wife, Elizabeth, and sons Wilson, Absalom, James and John. Also named is Edward Downing and his children [Eliza, Sally, Elizabeth and Polly]. Downing married Thomas' daughter, Elizabeth. Witnessing the will were Joel Berry, Stephen Mullins, James Morris and Pope Williams. Son, Wilson, and wife, Elizabeth, were named executors. Will probated: 15 May 1809.
Two of the witnesses are of note:
(1) Joel Berry was believed to be the brother of Elizabeth Berry Crail.
(2) Stephen Mullins was the brother of Richard Mullins, who married Rebecca Berry, Joel's daughter.
The James named in Thomas Crail's will was James Berry Crail, Sr.
Thomas Crail of Pendleton, KY is believed to be the father of James B. Crail, Sr. and husband of Elizabeth Berry. Thomas made his will on 10 April 1809 [Deed Book B, p. 243] naming his wife, Elizabeth, and sons Wilson, Absalom, James and John. Also named is Edward Downing and his children [Eliza, Sally, Elizabeth and Polly]. Downing married Thomas' daughter, Elizabeth. Witnessing the will were Joel Berry, Stephen Mullins, James Morris and Pope Williams. Son, Wilson, and wife, Elizabeth, were named executors. Will probated: 15 May 1809.
Two of the witnesses are of note:
(1) Joel Berry was believed to be the brother of Elizabeth Berry Crail.
(2) Stephen Mullins was the brother of Richard Mullins, who married Rebecca Berry, Joel's daughter.
The James named in Thomas Crail's will was James Berry Crail, Sr.
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Under Investigation: Possible Crail Lineage
Here is the possible Crail family line:
(1) Me
(2) Mom [Ruthjane McHugh m. Hugh C. Prall]
(3) Bess Catherine Crail m. Charles J. McHugh
(4) Dr. James Crail m. Ama Jemima Simmons
(5) Aaron Crail m. Catherine O'Neil
(6) James Berry Crail, Jr. m. Mary Ann Jones
(7) James Berry Crail, Sr. m. Margaret Stewart
(8) Thomas Crail, Jr. m. Elizabeth Berry
(9) Thomas Crail, Sr. m. Elizabeth Anne or Jane Wilson
Earlier generations are assigned, but don't fit too well. For example, one of the earlier Crails was roughly 50-60 years older than his son. That is possible, but unlikely with a single marriage.
Pennsylvania and Virginia records need to be researched to make sure the right Crails are in the right colony/state at the right time. Kentucky, Ohio and/or Indiana figure into most generations.
It should be interesting convincing myself I have the family sorted out as I go along.
(1) Me
(2) Mom [Ruthjane McHugh m. Hugh C. Prall]
(3) Bess Catherine Crail m. Charles J. McHugh
(4) Dr. James Crail m. Ama Jemima Simmons
(5) Aaron Crail m. Catherine O'Neil
(6) James Berry Crail, Jr. m. Mary Ann Jones
(7) James Berry Crail, Sr. m. Margaret Stewart
(8) Thomas Crail, Jr. m. Elizabeth Berry
(9) Thomas Crail, Sr. m. Elizabeth Anne or Jane Wilson
Earlier generations are assigned, but don't fit too well. For example, one of the earlier Crails was roughly 50-60 years older than his son. That is possible, but unlikely with a single marriage.
Pennsylvania and Virginia records need to be researched to make sure the right Crails are in the right colony/state at the right time. Kentucky, Ohio and/or Indiana figure into most generations.
It should be interesting convincing myself I have the family sorted out as I go along.
Saturday, September 16, 2017
Mary Ann Jones [Crail]
What is known about Mary Ann Jones Crail?
1) She was born in Ohio in 1811 [aged 76 at death in 1887]
2) Her father's "name" was T. Jones [per death certificate] & was born in Kentucky.
3) She married James B. Crail before 1835 in Ohio.
4) Named as mother on death certificates of John Crail & George Crail. Mother of Sylvester & Aaron based on other evidence.
5) Residences: 1835-1837 Hamilton Co., OH; 1839 Marion Co., OH; 1843 Miami Co., IN, 1851-1854 Shelby Co., IN.
6) From 1875-1887 she resided with either Sylvester or John. [Indy City Directory entries]
7) Mary Ann died 11 August 1887 and was buried at Crown Hill Cemetery.
1) She was born in Ohio in 1811 [aged 76 at death in 1887]
2) Her father's "name" was T. Jones [per death certificate] & was born in Kentucky.
3) She married James B. Crail before 1835 in Ohio.
4) Named as mother on death certificates of John Crail & George Crail. Mother of Sylvester & Aaron based on other evidence.
5) Residences: 1835-1837 Hamilton Co., OH; 1839 Marion Co., OH; 1843 Miami Co., IN, 1851-1854 Shelby Co., IN.
6) From 1875-1887 she resided with either Sylvester or John. [Indy City Directory entries]
7) Mary Ann died 11 August 1887 and was buried at Crown Hill Cemetery.
Friday, September 15, 2017
James B. Crail
What is known about James B. Crail?
1) He was according to census and death records of his children, born in Ohio.
2) In some cases he was referred to as "Junior." Therefore, his father was James Berry Crail Sr., who married Margaret Stewart.
3) Sometime prior to January 1835, he married Mary Ann Jones, also of Ohio.
4) James Crail, James B. Crail, J.B. Crail was named as the father of Sylvester B. Crail [b. 1835 Hamilton Co., OH], John V. Crail [b. 1837 Hamilton Co., OH], George B. Crail [b. 1843 Miami Co., IN] and by proof of relationship to Sylvester and John, Aaron S. Crail [b. 1839 Marion Co., OH].
5) He was in Hamilton Co., OH from, at least, 1835-1837; Marion Co., OH 1839, Miami Co., IN 1843, Shelby Co., IN 1851-54 [deed records]
6) James died between 1854 [recorded in Shelby Co., IN] and 1874. Beginning in 1875, Mary was listed as a widow in the Indianapolis City directories.
1) He was according to census and death records of his children, born in Ohio.
2) In some cases he was referred to as "Junior." Therefore, his father was James Berry Crail Sr., who married Margaret Stewart.
3) Sometime prior to January 1835, he married Mary Ann Jones, also of Ohio.
4) James Crail, James B. Crail, J.B. Crail was named as the father of Sylvester B. Crail [b. 1835 Hamilton Co., OH], John V. Crail [b. 1837 Hamilton Co., OH], George B. Crail [b. 1843 Miami Co., IN] and by proof of relationship to Sylvester and John, Aaron S. Crail [b. 1839 Marion Co., OH].
5) He was in Hamilton Co., OH from, at least, 1835-1837; Marion Co., OH 1839, Miami Co., IN 1843, Shelby Co., IN 1851-54 [deed records]
6) James died between 1854 [recorded in Shelby Co., IN] and 1874. Beginning in 1875, Mary was listed as a widow in the Indianapolis City directories.
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
My Resolve is Weakening!
Sticking with my Crail family......
John and Sylvester Crail moved around a bit before1875. Aaron was living in southern Hamilton Co., IN when he died in 1868. His widow, Catherine, moved with her son James until he went to veterinary school in Canada [1892-94], then opened a practice in Shelbyville, IN.
John and Sylvester stayed in Indy from about 1875 on. [Sylvester moved to the State Soldiers Home at Lafayette in 1897 and died the next year.] Catherine moved in with John for a few years, until James was transferred from Chicago to Indy in 1911.
John Crail lived on the "Old North Side" of Indianapolis late in his life. George B. Crail Sr. was also residing in this part of town around the turn of the 20th century.
The 1902 Indianapolis City Directory contained the following entries:
John Crail - 1743 Alvord
George B. Crail - 2336 Sheldon
These two addresses are/were 0.98 miles apart.
Also residing at the Sheldon address: Albert Crail [Geo. B.'s son]
The Alvord addess was home to: Catherine Crail [John's sister-in-law]; and George Crail [presumably George B.'s son]
James F. Crail was residing at 2309 Yandes, just a block or two from his father, George B.
Albert R. Crail lived at 1927 Alvord [John's son]
[John was living on Cornell (a couple of streets over from Alvord) when he died in 1907.]
If George B. Crail Jr. was boarding at the home of John Crail, would it not make sense to suspect a possible familial relationship? If so, at the least, George Sr. and John were therefore related. Cousins? Brothers?
Should I give in and accept George B. Crail Sr. [1842-1923] as brother of Sylvester [1835-1898], John [1837-1907] and Aaron [1829-1868]?
John and Sylvester Crail moved around a bit before1875. Aaron was living in southern Hamilton Co., IN when he died in 1868. His widow, Catherine, moved with her son James until he went to veterinary school in Canada [1892-94], then opened a practice in Shelbyville, IN.
John and Sylvester stayed in Indy from about 1875 on. [Sylvester moved to the State Soldiers Home at Lafayette in 1897 and died the next year.] Catherine moved in with John for a few years, until James was transferred from Chicago to Indy in 1911.
John Crail lived on the "Old North Side" of Indianapolis late in his life. George B. Crail Sr. was also residing in this part of town around the turn of the 20th century.
The 1902 Indianapolis City Directory contained the following entries:
John Crail - 1743 Alvord
George B. Crail - 2336 Sheldon
These two addresses are/were 0.98 miles apart.
Also residing at the Sheldon address: Albert Crail [Geo. B.'s son]
The Alvord addess was home to: Catherine Crail [John's sister-in-law]; and George Crail [presumably George B.'s son]
James F. Crail was residing at 2309 Yandes, just a block or two from his father, George B.
Albert R. Crail lived at 1927 Alvord [John's son]
[John was living on Cornell (a couple of streets over from Alvord) when he died in 1907.]
If George B. Crail Jr. was boarding at the home of John Crail, would it not make sense to suspect a possible familial relationship? If so, at the least, George Sr. and John were therefore related. Cousins? Brothers?
Should I give in and accept George B. Crail Sr. [1842-1923] as brother of Sylvester [1835-1898], John [1837-1907] and Aaron [1829-1868]?
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
A New Bit of Evidence in an old Research Problem
I have come across an item that gives a place for a "possible relative" during a time frame that he was formerly "missing" from.
I was looking at the Indiana State Archives online records the other day and, of course came across the entries in the Civil War records for gggf Aaron Crail and his older brothers, Sylvester and John. Also shown was a record for a George B. Crail. George is the "unconfirmed brother" of Aaron, Sylvester and John.
Accession #1938001:
CRAIL, George B. - age 19
Enrolled: 12 July 1863 - Regiment 107 - Company D
Discharged: 20 July 1863 - Indianapolis, Indiana
Reference #CIV041329
The 107th Indiana Infantry was a state militia regiment mustered in a precaution against Morgan's Raid. Brig. Gen. John Hunt Morgan's Confederates staged a raid on Kentucky, Southern Indiana and Ohio from 11 June - 26 July 1863.
The members of the 107th were all from Indianapolis. Once Morgan entered Ohio, the threat to Indiana was over and the regiment was disbanded.
George B. Crail's service was only 8 days. He was 19 in 1863, placing his birth in 1843 or 1844. According to Crail's death certificate, he was born 19 Feb 1843. George would have been 20 at the time the 107th was mustered in. A one year difference in age here is not a major concern. Aaron Crail's age fluctuates from record to record during the war.
Sylvester served with the 79th Indiana [1862] & the Veterans Reserve Corps [1864], while John & Aaron enlisted with the 124th Indiana in the spring of 1864.
The main item of interest in George's case is the fact he was an Indianapolis [Marion Co.] in 1863. Aaron, John and Sylvester moved back and forth between Marion and Hamilton Counties between about 1855 and their deaths [1868, 1898 and 1907]. Sylvester spent the last year of his life at the State Soldiers' Home in Lafayette, IN.
If George was the brother of the other three and was in Indy in 1863, does that mean he was living with his / their elusive parents [James B. Crail, Jr. & Mary A. Jones]? At 19-20, George was old enough to be on his own or to be living at home with the folks.
The mystery continues!
I was looking at the Indiana State Archives online records the other day and, of course came across the entries in the Civil War records for gggf Aaron Crail and his older brothers, Sylvester and John. Also shown was a record for a George B. Crail. George is the "unconfirmed brother" of Aaron, Sylvester and John.
Accession #1938001:
CRAIL, George B. - age 19
Enrolled: 12 July 1863 - Regiment 107 - Company D
Discharged: 20 July 1863 - Indianapolis, Indiana
Reference #CIV041329
The 107th Indiana Infantry was a state militia regiment mustered in a precaution against Morgan's Raid. Brig. Gen. John Hunt Morgan's Confederates staged a raid on Kentucky, Southern Indiana and Ohio from 11 June - 26 July 1863.
The members of the 107th were all from Indianapolis. Once Morgan entered Ohio, the threat to Indiana was over and the regiment was disbanded.
George B. Crail's service was only 8 days. He was 19 in 1863, placing his birth in 1843 or 1844. According to Crail's death certificate, he was born 19 Feb 1843. George would have been 20 at the time the 107th was mustered in. A one year difference in age here is not a major concern. Aaron Crail's age fluctuates from record to record during the war.
Sylvester served with the 79th Indiana [1862] & the Veterans Reserve Corps [1864], while John & Aaron enlisted with the 124th Indiana in the spring of 1864.
The main item of interest in George's case is the fact he was an Indianapolis [Marion Co.] in 1863. Aaron, John and Sylvester moved back and forth between Marion and Hamilton Counties between about 1855 and their deaths [1868, 1898 and 1907]. Sylvester spent the last year of his life at the State Soldiers' Home in Lafayette, IN.
If George was the brother of the other three and was in Indy in 1863, does that mean he was living with his / their elusive parents [James B. Crail, Jr. & Mary A. Jones]? At 19-20, George was old enough to be on his own or to be living at home with the folks.
The mystery continues!
Monday, September 11, 2017
Civil War Research
As I prepare to wrap up, for now, research on three Union Civil War era brothers [Lewis, George and Charles] of my great-great-grandmother, Catherine Laubscher Wagner, I thought I'd offer a short post on researching Civil War ancestors.
What makes this trio a bit unique is that they were born in Baden [Germany]. First name variations [Lewis & Louis; George & Georg; Charles & Carl] and surname variations [Laubscher, Lobsher, Lobshire, Laubshire, etc.]. Also Lewis had a son, Otto, who fought for the Confederacy.
Here are some guidelines:
1. Check the census records to confirm that your ancestors were of age to serve. They should have been about 15 in 1860.
2. Check the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors database for your veteran's name. The more you know, the better, but name will suffice.
https://www.nps.gov/civilwar/soldiers-and-sailors-overview.htm
3. Check Fold3 [www.fold3.com] for Civil War records. [paid site] Also check Family Search [free] and Ancestry.com [paid]
4. Check state and local archives for information on your ancestor.
5. Search for other Civil War sites for records, unit histories and rosters, etc.
6. If your CW vet received a pension, order the complete file from the National Archives. It may be more economical to hire a DC area genealogist to go to the NARA and copy the file for you.
7. If the widow of your vet filed for a pension, order it as well. [see #6]
8. Order your ancestor's military service record from the NARA. [see #6] Fold3 is beginning to digitize Civil War records, so check that first.
9. Check with the family to see what photos, records, letters, etc. have been passed down. [Actually, this should be #1!]
For Confederate records:
10. Start with #2 above.
11. Check websites [Fold3, Ancestry, Family Search, etc.] for available CSA records.
12. Check archives and libraries for the Confederate States [SC, NC, VA, TN, TX, AR, FL, AL, LA, MS, GA] & Border states [KY, MD, DE, MO] to see what pension, service and other records are available for Confederate soldiers.
13. Also [for both sides] check to see what prison camp records are available.
A note to researchers: Although admitting to having Confederate soldiers in the family tree may not politically correct nowadays, don't let that stop you from going ahead with your research. The Civil War happened. Many Southerners owned slaves and fought for the right to maintain their slave-based economic systems. Others fought because they were loyal to their home state of Virginia, North Carolina, etc. Some Northerners fought for the CSA. The border states saw men fight for both sides. Still others deserted and switched sides, or were captured and switched sides to avoid POW camps. Accept all of this as fact, Be proud that your ancestors fought for the cause they believed in. 156 years after the fact, we may not agree with the decisions that they made, but those decisions were made based on the time they lived in, not our time. Accept the decision and be proud of the stand taken.
When I started teaching in Florida, I got a lot of "You're a Yankee!" My reply? "Yeah, we won the war, get over it!" :)- That's similar to my reply to those who rant about the CSA. It happened, get over it, or at least accept it. You sure can't change it!
What makes this trio a bit unique is that they were born in Baden [Germany]. First name variations [Lewis & Louis; George & Georg; Charles & Carl] and surname variations [Laubscher, Lobsher, Lobshire, Laubshire, etc.]. Also Lewis had a son, Otto, who fought for the Confederacy.
Here are some guidelines:
1. Check the census records to confirm that your ancestors were of age to serve. They should have been about 15 in 1860.
2. Check the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors database for your veteran's name. The more you know, the better, but name will suffice.
https://www.nps.gov/civilwar/soldiers-and-sailors-overview.htm
3. Check Fold3 [www.fold3.com] for Civil War records. [paid site] Also check Family Search [free] and Ancestry.com [paid]
4. Check state and local archives for information on your ancestor.
5. Search for other Civil War sites for records, unit histories and rosters, etc.
6. If your CW vet received a pension, order the complete file from the National Archives. It may be more economical to hire a DC area genealogist to go to the NARA and copy the file for you.
7. If the widow of your vet filed for a pension, order it as well. [see #6]
8. Order your ancestor's military service record from the NARA. [see #6] Fold3 is beginning to digitize Civil War records, so check that first.
9. Check with the family to see what photos, records, letters, etc. have been passed down. [Actually, this should be #1!]
For Confederate records:
10. Start with #2 above.
11. Check websites [Fold3, Ancestry, Family Search, etc.] for available CSA records.
12. Check archives and libraries for the Confederate States [SC, NC, VA, TN, TX, AR, FL, AL, LA, MS, GA] & Border states [KY, MD, DE, MO] to see what pension, service and other records are available for Confederate soldiers.
13. Also [for both sides] check to see what prison camp records are available.
A note to researchers: Although admitting to having Confederate soldiers in the family tree may not politically correct nowadays, don't let that stop you from going ahead with your research. The Civil War happened. Many Southerners owned slaves and fought for the right to maintain their slave-based economic systems. Others fought because they were loyal to their home state of Virginia, North Carolina, etc. Some Northerners fought for the CSA. The border states saw men fight for both sides. Still others deserted and switched sides, or were captured and switched sides to avoid POW camps. Accept all of this as fact, Be proud that your ancestors fought for the cause they believed in. 156 years after the fact, we may not agree with the decisions that they made, but those decisions were made based on the time they lived in, not our time. Accept the decision and be proud of the stand taken.
When I started teaching in Florida, I got a lot of "You're a Yankee!" My reply? "Yeah, we won the war, get over it!" :)- That's similar to my reply to those who rant about the CSA. It happened, get over it, or at least accept it. You sure can't change it!
Sunday, September 10, 2017
Good-bye Merrie Olde England!
Yesterday's post lays to rest an arduous adventure into Medieval English research. We say good-bye to Kings Henry and Edward and several families with little imagination when it came to naming children! The Botelers, for example, had way too many Ralphs, Philips and Johns!
I will be returning to my Laubschers and trying to figure out why Rebel cousin Otto was so prone to being captured by the Union forces and ended up his post-war life in PA & NY. Maybe his Union father and uncles helped him see the error of his ways! Keep checking back for the story.
I will be returning to my Laubschers and trying to figure out why Rebel cousin Otto was so prone to being captured by the Union forces and ended up his post-war life in PA & NY. Maybe his Union father and uncles helped him see the error of his ways! Keep checking back for the story.
Saturday, September 9, 2017
Boteler: Gen. 6-7 & Sources
Sixth Generation
6. He died bef 6 mar 1575/6 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom. He was buried 6 mar 1575/6 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom.
John Boteler Esquire and Grizel Roche11 were married on 10 Jun 1540 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom.11
John Boteler and Grizel Roche had the following child:
Seventh Generation
7. She died circa 3 Feb 1613/4 at the age of 64 in prob. North Mimms, Hertfordshire, England. 12
Elizabeth Boteler and Sir Henry Coningsby13 were married in Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom.13–14 He died on 21 Jan 1590 at the age of 44 in North Mimms, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom. 12–13 Sir Henry Coningsby was knighted at Theobald's in 1582, as Knight of the Weld and Nort Mimms. He served as Sheriff of Hertfordshire in 1569 and 1582. Sir Henry married Elizabeth, daughter of Sir John Boteler of Watton, Woodhall. His sister, Anne married Sir Philip Boteler, Henry's brother-in-law.
Henry will was dated 27 November 1587 and proved 21 January 1590/1.
Henry will was dated 27 November 1587 and proved 21 January 1590/1.
Henry Coningsby and Elizabeth Boteler had the following child:
Sources:
1. Douglas Richardson, Plantagenet Ancestry: A Study in Colonial and Medieval Families (Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, 2004), 206-207.
2. Robert Edmond Chester Waters Esq., B.A., Genealogical Memoirs of the Extinct Family of Chester of Chichley: Their Ancestors & Descendants, I (London: Robson & Sons, 1878), 138-139.
3. Wikipedia, "John Cockayne [d. 1429]," database, Wiki Media Foundation, Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Cokayne_(died_1429): accessed 1 September 2017), .
4. Find A Grave, "Elizabeth Cockayne," database, Memerizon, Find A Grave (https://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=174279556: accessed 1 September 2017), Elizabeth's birth.
5. Douglas Richardson, Plantagenet Ancestry: A Study in Colonial and Medieval Families, 466-467.
6. "Marriage settlement between Philip Boteler & Isabel Willoughby," Mi D 4792, Marriage Arrangements, https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/manuscriptsandspecialcollections/learning/medievalwomen/theme5/documents.aspx; Manuscripts & Special Collections, University of Nottingham, University Park.
7. Douglas Richardson, Plantagenet Ancestry: A Study in Colonial and Medieval Families, 345, 466-467.
8. Jorge H. Castilli, "Willoughby Family," database, Jorge H. Castilli, Tudor Place (http://www.tudorplace.com.ar/WILLOUGHBY1.htm#Isabel WILLOUGHBY1: accessed 31 August 2017), Isabel's birth year.
10. Ted Williams & Robin Wood, "William Tyrell [1415-1462]," database, Wiki Tree, Wiki Tree (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Tyrell-6: accessed 31 August 2017), Tyrrell / Darcy / Boteler.
12. Darryl Lundy, "Coningsby," database, Lundy Consulting, The Peerage (www.thepeerage.com/p40742.htm#1407419: accessed 25 July 2017), Coningsby family.
14. John Millman, "The Genealogy of the Jermy Family," database, John Millman, The Tripartite Website (myweb.tiscali.co.uk/tripartite/jermyhomepage.htm: accessed 20 August 2016), Jermy family
Friday, September 8, 2017
Boteler: Gen. 3-5
Third Generation
3. He was born 1435/6 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 9 John was Sheriff of Essex and Hertfordshire in 1490 and was still living on 29 November 1491. He had died by the time his widow Constance died on 16 May 1499.
Boteler was married twice. His first wife, Elizabeth, was the mother of John. His 2nd wife, Constance de Vere [daughter of Richard] was the mother of Elizabeth, who married Thomas Lovett.
Numerous websites and histories incorrectly show Constance as a Downhall.
Boteler was married twice. His first wife, Elizabeth, was the mother of John. His 2nd wife, Constance de Vere [daughter of Richard] was the mother of Elizabeth, who married Thomas Lovett.
Numerous websites and histories incorrectly show Constance as a Downhall.
John Boteler and Elizabeth [Boteler]9 were married before 1459 in Watton on Stone, Hertfordshire, England.9
John Boteler and Elizabeth [Boteler] had the following child:
Fourth Generation
4. He died on 11 May 1514 at the age of 55 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 10
John Boteler Esquire and Dorothy Tyrell/Tyrrell10 were married in 1487 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England.10 She died in 1491 at the age of 32 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 10
John Boteler and Dorothy Tyrell/Tyrrell had the following child:
Fifth Generation
5. He died on 28 Mar 1545 at the age of 52 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. Sir Philip was the eldest son of John Boteler and his second wife, Dorothy Tyrell. Philip married Elizabeth Drury in 1510. She was the mother of three sons and seven daughters.
Boteler was one of the Knights of the Body to King Henry VIII in 1516. On 10 January 1520/1, he sold the reversion of Norbury Manor, Staffordshire, to Thomas Skrymaher for a rent-charge of forty marks per annum.
He was a Member of Parliament for Hertfordshire in 1529 and 1539. In 1530 Philip was one of the commissioners for Hertfordshire toinquire into the possessions of Wolsey. He was Sheriff of Hertfordshire in 1533 and 1540.
Boteler witnessed the christening of Prince Edward [later King Edward VI]. Sir Philip, in 1539-40, was among the knights appointed to meet Anne of Cleves.
Sir Philip and Dame Elizabeth, along with their son John and his wife Grizel, sold the advowson of Norbury to Skrymaher on 10 June 1540.
In 1544, he was enrolled as supplying men for the rearguard in the army against France and was appointed to levy recruits.
At the dissoution of the monasteries Henry VII gave the manor of Aston, for the tenth part of a knight's fee and a rent of seventeen shillings and eleven pence to Sir Philip Boteler, Sheriff of Hertford. Philip ruled at Woodhall in Watton parish. He built the manor of Aston Bury on the site of an old monastery to establish himself in Aston.
Boteler was one of the Knights of the Body to King Henry VIII in 1516. On 10 January 1520/1, he sold the reversion of Norbury Manor, Staffordshire, to Thomas Skrymaher for a rent-charge of forty marks per annum.
He was a Member of Parliament for Hertfordshire in 1529 and 1539. In 1530 Philip was one of the commissioners for Hertfordshire toinquire into the possessions of Wolsey. He was Sheriff of Hertfordshire in 1533 and 1540.
Boteler witnessed the christening of Prince Edward [later King Edward VI]. Sir Philip, in 1539-40, was among the knights appointed to meet Anne of Cleves.
Sir Philip and Dame Elizabeth, along with their son John and his wife Grizel, sold the advowson of Norbury to Skrymaher on 10 June 1540.
In 1544, he was enrolled as supplying men for the rearguard in the army against France and was appointed to levy recruits.
At the dissoution of the monasteries Henry VII gave the manor of Aston, for the tenth part of a knight's fee and a rent of seventeen shillings and eleven pence to Sir Philip Boteler, Sheriff of Hertford. Philip ruled at Woodhall in Watton parish. He built the manor of Aston Bury on the site of an old monastery to establish himself in Aston.
Sir Philip Boteler and Elizabeth Drury were married circa 1510 in Watton on Stone, Hertfordshire, England.
Philip Boteler and Elizabeth Drury had the following child:
Thursday, September 7, 2017
The Boteler Family: Gen. 1-2
The surname frequently appears as 'Butler,' so it would appear that Boteler is pronounced "butler."
First Generation
1. He died on 5 Nov 1420 at the age of 32 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 1 Philip inherited estates of Pulverbath, Shropshire, Norbury, Stafford and Higham-Gobion, Bedfordshire from his cousin Edward in 1412.
Philip's parents were Sir Philip Boteler [d. 1393] and Elizabeth. His grandparents were Sir Ralph Boteler and Katherine de Peletoyt, daughter of Sir Philip.
It was from his great-grandmother, Hawise Gibion [29 September 11262-1360], that Philip and Edward inherited their lands. Hawise married Sir Ralph Boteler [d. 13443.]
The rest of Philip's ancestry was believed to be:
Sir Ralph Boteler [d. 1307] and Matilda Marmion.
Ralph Boteler of Oversley and Matilda Pantulph
Maurice Boteler
Ralph Boteler
Ralph Boteler
Ralph le Boteler and Avice
Philip's parents were Sir Philip Boteler [d. 1393] and Elizabeth. His grandparents were Sir Ralph Boteler and Katherine de Peletoyt, daughter of Sir Philip.
It was from his great-grandmother, Hawise Gibion [29 September 11262-1360], that Philip and Edward inherited their lands. Hawise married Sir Ralph Boteler [d. 13443.]
The rest of Philip's ancestry was believed to be:
Sir Ralph Boteler [d. 1307] and Matilda Marmion.
Ralph Boteler of Oversley and Matilda Pantulph
Maurice Boteler
Ralph Boteler
Ralph Boteler
Ralph le Boteler and Avice
Philip Boteler and Elizabeth Cockayne1 were married circa 1412 in Derbyshire, England.3
Philip Boteler and Elizabeth Cockayne had the following child:
Second Generation
2. He died on 28 Jul 1453 at the age of 38 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 7 Sir Philip was Sheriff of Hertfordshire and Essex and Knight of the Shire of Hertford. He was heir to his older brother Edward in 1421. Boteler was also an executor of the estate of his father-in-law, Hugh Willoughby.
The marriage between Philip and Isabel was an arranged one. Following the death of Philip Boteler in 1420, the younger Philip's wardship and marriage rights were given to John Cockayne. Cockayne died in 1429. The executors of Philip's estate sold the wardship and marriage rights of young Philip to Hugh Willoughby of Wollaton, Nottinghamshire. Sir Hugh arranged for Philip to marry his daughter Isabel shortly after Philip turned 21. Willoughby promised the couple 50 marks and took possession of Boteler's lands as set forth in the wardship. The marriage settlement was dated 6 January 1436. The marriage had undoubtedly taken place between August and December of 1435, following Philip's 21st birthday..
The marriage between Philip and Isabel was an arranged one. Following the death of Philip Boteler in 1420, the younger Philip's wardship and marriage rights were given to John Cockayne. Cockayne died in 1429. The executors of Philip's estate sold the wardship and marriage rights of young Philip to Hugh Willoughby of Wollaton, Nottinghamshire. Sir Hugh arranged for Philip to marry his daughter Isabel shortly after Philip turned 21. Willoughby promised the couple 50 marks and took possession of Boteler's lands as set forth in the wardship. The marriage settlement was dated 6 January 1436. The marriage had undoubtedly taken place between August and December of 1435, following Philip's 21st birthday..
Sir Philip Boteler and Isabel Willoughby7 were married circa 6 Jan 1436 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England.6–7 She died after 1471 at the age of 53 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 7 Isabel was the daughter of Hugh Willoughby and Margaret Freville. She was descended from Henry II by his mistress Ida.
Philip Boteler and Isabel Willoughby had the following child:
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
The Cockayne Family
First Generation
1. He died in 1429 at the age of 69 in Cockayne Hatley, Bedfordshire, England. 1 John was Recorder of London from at least 1394-1398. He was made serjeant at law in 1396. From 1398-1400 Cockayne succeeded his father as Chief Steward of the Duchy north of the Trent. In 1400 he was made Chief Baron of the Eschequer, giving up the post in 1413. John was a Justice of the Common Pleas in 1405.
Cockayne acquired lands in Derbyshire and Hertfordshire. He purchased his primary residence at Bury Hatley [later Cockayne Hatley] in Bedfordshire in 1417 for 1000 marks.
He made his will on 10 February 1428, requesting burial next to his wife in St. John's Church, Bury Hatley. Cockayne died on 22 May 1429.
Cockayne acquired lands in Derbyshire and Hertfordshire. He purchased his primary residence at Bury Hatley [later Cockayne Hatley] in Bedfordshire in 1417 for 1000 marks.
He made his will on 10 February 1428, requesting burial next to his wife in St. John's Church, Bury Hatley. Cockayne died on 22 May 1429.
John Cockayne and Ida Grey1–2 were married before 1390 in England.1–2 She died on 1 Jun 1426 at the age of 58 in Cockayne Hatley, Bedfordshire, England. 2 Ida [or Edith] was the daughter of ReginaldGrey, 2nd Baron de Grey of Ruthyn, a powerful Welsh Marcher lord. The Greys were the chief Marcher barons in the northern Welsh Marches. Her mother was Eleanor Le Strange of Blackmere. Ida's maternal grandmother, Ankaret Le Botillier, was a direct descendant of Gruffydd II ap Madog, Prince of Wales.
John Cockayne and Ida Grey had the following child:
Sources:
1. Wikipedia, "John Cockayne [d. 1429]," database, Wiki Media Foundation, Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Cokayne_(died_1429): accessed 1 September 2017), Cockayne family.
2. Wikipedia, "Ida de Grey," database, Wiki Media Foundation, Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ida_de_Grey: accessed 1 September 2017), Ida de Grey.
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Tyrrell Famiy: "Off with their heads!"
First Generation
1. He died on 23 Feb 1462 at the age of 47 in Tower Hill, London, Middlesex, England. 1–2 William Tyrrell was executed [beheaded] on Tower Hill in London on 23 February 1462 for his involvement with John de Vere, Earl of Oxford, in a conspiracy against Edward IV. Conspirators Thomas Tuddenham and John Montgomery were executed the same day. Aubrey de Vere was executed on the 20th and John deVere on the 26th.
William's son, James Tyrrell, was executed for treason on 6 May 1502 after being found guilty of murdering King Edward V and his brother Robert of Shrewsbury. Sir Thomas More later wrote that James had admitted to the murders, although no transcripts of the confession have been found.
William's son, James Tyrrell, was executed for treason on 6 May 1502 after being found guilty of murdering King Edward V and his brother Robert of Shrewsbury. Sir Thomas More later wrote that James had admitted to the murders, although no transcripts of the confession have been found.
Sir William Tyrell/Tyrrell and Margaret Darcy [D'Arcy]2 were married in 1452 in Gipping, Stowmarket, Suffolk, England.2 She died in 1525 at the age of 100 in England. 2 Margaret was the daughter of Robert D'Arcy.
William Tyrell/Tyrrell and Margaret Darcy [D'Arcy] had the following child:
Second Generation
2. She died in 1491 at the age of 32 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 2
Dorothy Tyrell/Tyrrell and John Boteler Esquire2 were married in 1487 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England.2 He died on 11 May 1514 at the age of 55 in Watton Woodhall, Hertfordshire, England. 2
John Boteler and Dorothy Tyrell/Tyrrell had the following child:
Sources:
1. Wikipedia, "James Tyrrell," database, Wikimedia Foundation, Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tyrrell: accessed 31 August 2017), William & James Tyrell.
2. Ted Williams & Robin Wood, "William Tyrell [1415-1462]," database, Wiki Tree, Wiki Tree (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Tyrell-6: accessed 31 August 2017), Tyrrell / Darcy / Boteler.
Monday, September 4, 2017
Stapleton Family: Gen. 7 - Sources
Seventh Generation
7. She died on 18 Feb 1505 at the age of 64 in Niorfolk, England.
Sir William married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth [1406-1437], daughter of Sir Reynold de Grey, 3rd Baron of Ruthin. His second wife was Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Miles Stapleton of Ingram and Katherine de la Pole.
Elizabeth Stapleton inherited Hemptead, Norfolk from her father.
William was buried next to his first wife at the Church of White Friars at Norwich, Norfolk.
William Calthorpe and Elizabeth Stapylton/Stapleton had the following child:
Sources:
1. Leslie Stephens & Sidney Lee, "Miles Stapleton [Died 1314]," article, Encyclopedia Britannica, Britannica Biographies (www.britannica.com/bios/lords/mstapleton.html : accessed 20 August 2017), Miles Stapleton; Dictionary of National Biography [1891].
2. H.E. Chetwynd-Starylton, The Stapletons of Yorkshire: Being the History of an English Family from Very Early Times (London: Longmans, Green & Co., 1897), 82-87; digital images, LDS Family History Library, FamilySearch.org (www.familysearch.org : accessed 22 August 2017.
3. George Beltz, "Miles Stapleton 1319-1364," database, The Medieval Combat Society, The Medieval Combat Society (www.themcs.org/characters/Miles%20Stapleton.htm: accessed 20 August 2017), Stapleton Family; citing Memorials of the Most Noble Order of the Garter from Its Foundation to the Present Time, 1841.
4. Thomas Frederick Tout, "Stapleton, Miles de [d. 1364] [DNB00]," article, Wikisource, Wikisource (https://en.wikisource.org/w/index.php?title=Stapleton_Miles_de_(d.1364)_()DNB00 : accessed 15 August 2017), Miles de Stapleton; citing prior publication in Dictionary of National Biography, Vol. 54 [1885-1900] (2011).
5. Douglas Richardson, Plantagenet Ancestry: A Study in Colonial and Medieval Families (Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, 2004), 56-57 [Bardolf].
6. Douglas Richardson, Plantagenet Ancestry: A Study in Colonial and Medieval Families, 56-58 [Bardolf: 11. Miles Stapleton & Katherine Pole].
7. Wikipedia, "William Calthorpe," database, Wikipedia Foundation, Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Calthorpe: accessed 10 July 2017), Sir William Calthorpe
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