Thursday, November 14, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: Edward E. Pierce (1900-1900)

Edward E. Pierce (1900-1900) was my maternal great-granduncle.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about him.

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Edward was born in March 19001, probably in Madison County, Indiana, according to the 1900 census.  The State of Indiana did not require state-wide registrations of births until 1907.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

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

          1.1.2. Bible Record

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

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

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

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Edward was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

                Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Edward died December 23, 1900 in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not have a copy of his death certificate.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               If Edward's death had been recording in local newspapers, it has been lost to history.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               A search of Madison County, Indiana funeral home records needs to be done to see if I can locate a record of his burial.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               I do not yet know where Edward is buried.  Many of the Pierce family were buried in the Maplewood Cemetery in Anderson, Madison County, Indiana.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 15, 1900, Edward was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana1, as Edward E. Pierce, son, aged 3 months.  He was born March 1900 in Indiana.  Both of his parents were born in Indiana.

     2.2. State Census Records

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

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

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

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

           Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

            Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

5. Supplemental Records

      Not applicable, as Edward died in infancy.

Sources:

1. William F. Pierce household, 1900 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 90, SD 67, sheet 118, dwelling 220, family 235; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 386, page 28.

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

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: John Herman Pierce (1895-1959)

John Herman Pierce (1895-1959) was my maternal great-granduncle.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about him.

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Herman was born July 31, 1895 in Madison County, Indiana8,9.  The State of Indiana did not require the state-wide registration of birth certificates until 1907.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

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

          1.1.2. Bible Record

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

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

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

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Herman was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

           Herman married on December 24, 1918 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana1 to Charlotte Elva Hensley.  I have not yet obtained a copy of their marriage license.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          Herman married on November 3, 1923 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana2 to Charlotte Ferguson.  I have not yet obtained a copy of their marriage license.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of Herman and Charlotte Ferguson's nuptials.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

                John and Charlotte's 25th wedding anniversary would have been November 3, 1948 and their 50th wedding anniversary would have been November 3, 1973.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if there was any mention of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that John and Charlotte were ever divorced, but a thorough search of the court records in Madison County, Indiana needs to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Herman died July 19, 1959 in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana, according to my database.  I do not yet have a copy of his death certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Herman's obituary appeared in the July 21, 1959 edition of the Anderson Herald in Anderson, Indiana.  I have not sourced his obituary in my database and need to obtain a copy. Will need to search other local newspapers to see if his death was mentioned.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Once I have a copy of Herman's obituary, I can contact the funeral home mentioned to see if they have any additional records.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

                     Herman's tombstone in the I.O.O.F. cemetery in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana has not been photographed.  I need to obtain a photo and upload to the FindAGrave.com website.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

               On April 22, 1940, Herman was enumerated as head of household in Brown Township, Hancock County, Indiana3, as Herman Pierce, age 44, farmer, born in Indiana.  He had completed the 7th grade in education.  His residence in 1935 was rural Madison County, Indiana.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On May 6, 1930, Herman was enumerated as head of household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana4, as Herman Pierce, age 33, farmer, born in Indiana.  He rented his home and owned a radio.  He was aged 29 at his 1st marriage.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He was born in Indiana, as were both of his parents.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 23, 1920, Herman was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Frankton, Madison County, Indiana5, as J. Herman Pierce, son, age 24, farm laborer.  He was born in Indiana, as were both of his parents.  He was widowed.  He could read and write and spoke English.

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

               On April 22, 1910, Herman was enumerated in the W.F. Pierce household in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana6, as Herman Pierce, son, age 14.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He had attended school within the year.  He was born in Indiana, as were both of his parents.

          2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 15, 1900, Herman was enumerated in the William F. Pierce household in Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana7, as John H. Pierce, son, age 4. He was born July 1895 in Indiana.  Both of his parents were born in Indiana.

     2.2. State Census Records

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

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

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

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          On June 5, 1917, Herman registered with the Selective Service during World War I in Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana8.  He was born July 31, 1895 in Madison County, Indiana.  At the time of the draft, he was living at R.F.D. 19 in Alexandria and was engaged in farming on his father's farm.  He was single.  He was described as medium height, stout build with grey eyes and light brown hair.  

        On April 27, 1942, Herman registered with the Selective Service during World War II in Madison County, Indiana9.  He was living at R.R. 2 Anderson in Lafayette Township.  He was 46 years old, self employed.  His nearest relative was his wife, Charlotte.  He stood 5'8", weighed 170 lbs. with blue eyes, brown hair and a ruddy complexion.  He had a scar on his left index finger.

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable.

     3.3. Service Records

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

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Madison County, Indiana to see what records might mention Herman.  Have added this to my "to-do" list for my next research trip.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

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

5. Supplemental Records

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

     On December 11, 1954, Herman was a pallbearer for the Nellie Fox funeral in Alexandria, Madison County, Indiana10.

Sources:

1. "Pierce wedding," Alexandria Times-Tribune, 24 December 1918.
2. Email from 13 August 2001.
3. 1940 U.S. census, Hancock County, Indiana, population schedule, Brown Township, enumeration district 30-5, SD 11, sheet 88, dwelling 186, digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 12 November 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
4. Herman Pierce household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 48-39, SD 5, sheet 10B, dwelling 239, family 239; National Archives micropublication T626, roll 605, page 149.
5. William F. Pierce household, 1920 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 119, SD 8, sheet 6A, dwelling 127, household 129; National Archives micropublication T625, roll 449, page 6B.
6. W.F. Pierce household, 1910 U.S. census, population schedule, Lafayette Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 106, SD 8, sheet 5A, dwelling 86, family 86; National Archives micropublication T624, roll 364, page 131.
7. William F. Pierce household, 1900 U.S. census, population schedule, Monroe Township, Madison County, Indiana, ED 90, SD 67, sheet 11B, dwelling 220, family 235; National Archives micropublication T623, roll 386, page 28.
8. "U.S. World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," digital image, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 13 November 2013); citing World War I Selective Service System Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918 : Indiana.
9. "U.S. World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942," digital image, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 13 November 2013); citing Selective Service Registration Cards, World War II : Fourth Registration : Indiana.
10. Fox Rites article, Anderson Herald, Anderson, Indiana, USA, December 14, 1954, page 6.

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

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

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

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

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


"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V6RG-K5J : accessed 17 Oct 2013), George C D Bergman and Nora Stolz, 1903.
Nora was my paternal first cousin three times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Metzner and Catherine Young.  Nora and George had two children.  She died June 19, 1971.

Wednesday, November 06, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: Wesley F. Metzner (1872-1953)

Wesley F. Metzner (1872-1953)
Wesley F. Metzner (1872-1953) was my paternal great-granduncle.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about him.


1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          Wesley was born March 3, 1872 in Jay County, Indiana.  The State of Indiana did not require the state-wide registration of births until 1907.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Wesley's birth was mention in a local newspaper, it has been lost to history.  The Jay County, Indiana public library has local newspapers from the 1880s.  The holdings of the Indiana State Library in Indianapolis do not indicate any newspapers of the time period.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

               I am not aware of any surviving Bible record of the Metzner family.  Will continue to reach out to extended family in hope's that one does exist.

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

               I am not aware of any baptismal record for Wesley.  The Metzners were members of the Evangelical Association.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Wesley was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Wesley married on October 20, 1898 in Jay County, Indiana1 to Mary Nora Axe.  A copy of their marriage license was the subject of a previous post.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of Wesley and Nora's nuptials.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Wesley and Nora's 25th wedding anniversary would have been October 20, 1923.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if there was any mention of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that Wesley was ever divorced, but a full search of Jay County, Indiana court records needs to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Wesley died November 5, 1953 in Portland, Jay County, Indiana.  I do not have a copy of his death certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspapers to see if I can locate an obituary for Wesley.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Once I have a copy of Wesley's obituary, I can contact the funeral home mentioned and see if they have any additional records.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Wesley's tombstone in the Mt. Zion Cemetery, Jay County, Indiana has been photographed2.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

               On April 16, 1940, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana3, as Wesley Metzner, age 68, Farmer.  He owned his home and it was valued at $1000.  He was married and had completed the 8th grade in education.  His residence in 1935 was the same location.  He was born in Indiana.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 9, 1930, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana4, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 58, Farmer.  He was born in Indiana, and both parents born in Ohio.  He owned his home and it was valued at $5500. He was married at age 26. He could read and write and spoke English.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 29, 1920, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana5, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 46, Farmer.  He owned his home and it was mortgaged.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He was born in Indiana and both parents were born in Ohio.

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

               On April 19, 1910, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana6, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 38, Farmer.  He had been married for 12 years.  He was born in Indiana and both parents were born in Ohio.  He could read and write and spoke English.

          2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 23, 1900, Wesley was enumerated as head of household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana7, as Wesley F. Metzner, age 28, Farmer.  He was born November 1872 in Indiana and both parents were born in Ohio.  He had been married for 1 year.  He could read and write and spoke English.  He owned his home free of mortgage.

          2.1.6. 1880 Federal Census

               On June 23, 1880, Wesley was enumerated in the John A. Metzner household in Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana8, as Wesley F. Metzner, son, age 8, born in Indiana.  Both parents were born in Ohio.  He had attended school within the year.

     2.2. State Census Records

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

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

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

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Wesley was too old to have registered for the draft during World War I.

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Jay County, Indiana to see what records might mention Wesley.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

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

5. Supplemental Records

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

Sources:

1. Jay County, Indiana Marriage Records, Book C-H, page 515.
2. FindAGrave Inc., FindAGrave.com (www.findagrave.com : accessed 6 November 2013).
3. 1940 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 38-9, SD 5, sheet 4B, dwelling 78; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
4. Wesley F. Metzner household, 1930 U.S. census, population schedule, Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 38-9, SD 5, sheet 4A, dwelling 84, family 84; National Archives micropublication T626.
5. 1920 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 74, SD 8, sheet 4A, dwelling 91, family 94; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
6. 1910 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 69, SD 8, sheet 2A, dwelling 29, family 29; digital archives, Archives.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
7. 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, enumeration district 63, SD 8, sheet 11B, dwelling 242, family 244; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
8. John A. Metzner household, 1880 U.S. census, population schedule, Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana, ED 208, SD 6, page 5, dwelling 5; National Archives micropublication T9, roll 287.



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

Tuesday, November 05, 2013

Elias P. Snyder (1859-1891), Delaware County, Indiana

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

Elias P. Snyder (1859-1891) was the son of Edwin Clark Anthony and Amanda (Groenendyke) Snyder.  His marriage on October 6, 1877 in Delaware County, Indiana was found in the database.  I have the surname as Snyder in my database, but the record clearly spells the alternative Snider.


"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XXYQ-3JB : accessed 17 Oct 2013), Elias P Snider and Nancy E Bell, 1877.
Elias was my maternal first cousin four times removed.  Our common ancestors were Elias Groenendyke and Nancy Jenkins.  Elias and Nancy had at least 3 children.  He died January 24, 1891 in Delaware County, Indiana.

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Phebe Ann Beals (1831- ), Randolph County, Indiana

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

Phebe Ann Beals (1831-    ) was the daughter of Daniel and Catherine (Jackson) Beals.  Her marriage on August 14, 1852 in Randolph County, Indiana to Jesse F. Baldwin was found in the database.  Prior to this find, I didn't have the exact location of their marriage.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V5P3-BLY : accessed 15 Oct 2013), Jesse F Baldwin and Phebe Ann Beals, 1852.
Phebe was my maternal fourth cousin six times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Beals and Mary Clayton.  Nothing further is known about her family at this point.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Pearl May Beals (1878-1970), Hamilton County, Indiana

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

Pearl May Beals (1878-1970) was the daughter of Nathan Thomas and Elizabeth Caroline (Poe) Beals.  Her marriage on April 18, 1897 in Hamilton County, Indiana to Charles W. Lambertson was found in the database.  Though indexed with a middle initial of "M", it actually is "W" for Wilson.  Though I already had this fact in my database, I didn't actually have a copy of the record.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/VXP5-KBP : accessed 15 Oct 2013), Charles M Lambertson and Pearl May Beals, 1897.
Pearl was my maternal great-great-grandmother.  She died August 3, 1970 in Elwood, Madison County, Indiana.  They were the parents of 8 children, all born in Hamilton County, Indiana.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: William A.L. Metzner (1866-1879)

William A.L. Metzner (1866-1879) was my paternal great-granduncle.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about him.

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

          William was born October 24, 1866, probably in Jay County, Indiana.  The State of Indiana did not require state-wide registration of births until after 1907.  His date of birth was obtained from calculating from his death date and his tombstone.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If William's birth was mentioned in a local newspaper, it has been lost to history.  The Jay County, Indiana public library has local newspapers from the late 1880s.  The holdings of the Indiana State Library in Indianapolis do not indicate any newspapers of the time period.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

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

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

               I am not aware of any baptismal record for William.  The Metzner's were members of the Evangelical Association.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that William was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Not applicable, as William died in his youth.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Not applicable.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Not applicable.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               Not applicable.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          William died March 4, 18791, probably in Jay County, Indiana.  The Jay County Indiana Health Department has death records from 1882.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if I can find mention of William's death.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Once I've located an obituary for William, will see if the funeral home is mentioned and then contact them for additional information.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               William's tombstone in the Mt. Zion Cemetery, Jay County, Indiana1 has been photographed.  His tombstone lists his death date as March 4, 1879, and states he was 12 years, 4 months and 8 days old.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1870 Federal Census

               On July 4, 1870, William was enumerated in the John A. Metzner household in Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana2, as William Metzner, age 3, born in Indiana.

     2.2. State Census Records

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

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

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

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as William died as a youth.

     3.2. Pension Records

          Not applicable.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Not applicable.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

          Jay County, Indiana published a plat map in 1874, 1881, 1887, 1901, 1910 and 1920 that might be relevant to my research.  

5. Supplemental Records

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

Sources:

1. FindAGrave, Inc., FindAGrave.com (www.findagrave.com : accessed 17 October 2013).
2. John A. Metzner household, 1870 U.S. census, population schedule, Wayne Township, Jay County, Indiana, dwelling 71, family 71, page 9; National Archives micropublication M593, roll 327.

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

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Amer Jackson Beals (1818-1862), Randolph County, Indiana

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

Amer Jackson Beals (1818-1862) was the son of Daniel and Catherine (Jackson) Beals.  His marriage on October 16, 1842 in Randolph County, Indiana to Harriett Higginbotham was found in the database.  Harriett's surname is spelled both Higginbotham and Hickingbothum in the same document.  Prior to this find, I had the date of their wedding incorrectly as October 12th.


"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V5P7-8KQ : accessed 14 Oct 2013), Amer J Beals and Harriet Hickingbothum, 1842.
Amer's second marriage, also in Randolph County, Indiana, was on August 11, 1857 to Matilda H. Nolin.  Prior to finding this in the database, I did not have the date or location of their marriage.  I also had her name as Matilda Nolan Quick.  That could be a surname from a previous marriage, but the record clearly shows her surname as Nolin.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V5PQ-G5T : accessed 14 Oct 2013), Amer J Beals and Matilda H Nolins, 1857.

Amer was my maternal fourth cousin six times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Beals and Mary Clayton.  Amer died April 16, 1862 in Nashville, Tennessee.  Not sure at this point if he was a Civil War casualty.

Monday, October 14, 2013

Exploratory Data Analysis: Ora Amanda (Haley) Bittikofer (1884- 1961)

Ora Amanda (Haley) Bittikofer (1884-1961) was my paternal great-grandaunt.  What follows is an exploratory analysis of the biographical data I have discovered about her.

1. Vital Records

     1.1. Birth Certificate

           Ora was born August 25, 1884 in Jay County, Indiana1.  The Jay County Indiana Health Department has birth records from 1882.  I do not yet have a copy of her birth certificate.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.1.1. Birth Notice in Newspaper

               If Ora's birth was recorded in a newspaper, I have not yet discovered it.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if she is mentioned.

          1.1.2. Bible Record

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

          1.1.3. Baptismal Record

               The Haleys were members of the Evangelical Association.  I am not aware of any baptismal record for Ora at this time.

          1.1.4. Adoption Record

               There is no indication that Ora was adopted.

     1.2. Marriage License

          Ora married Franklin Oliver Bittikofer on February 20, 1904 in Jay County, Indiana2.   A copy of their marriage license was the subject of a previous post.

          1.2.1 Marriage Notice in Newspaper

               Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if mention was made of Frank and Ora's nuptials.

          1.2.2. Anniversary Notice

               Ora and Frank's 25th wedding anniversary would have been February 20, 1929.  Will need to search contemporary newspaper accounts to see if there was any mention of anniversary celebrations.

          1.2.3. Divorce Decree

               There is no indication that Ora was ever divorced, but a thorough search of Jay County, Indiana court records needs to be completed.

     1.3. Death Certificate

          Ora died in 1961, according to her tombstone.  I do not have a copy of her death certificate.  Since the family was living in Troy, Miami County, Ohio, assume that she died there.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

          1.3.1. Obituary in Newspaper

               Once I obtain an exact date of death, will search contemporary newspapers to see if I can locate an obituary for Ora.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items.

          1.3.2. Funeral Home Records

               Once I have a copy of Ora's obituary, I can contact the funeral home mentioned and see if they have any additional records of Ora's funeral.

          1.3.3. Tombstone Photograph

               Ora's tombstone in the Riverside Cemetery, Troy, Miami County, Ohio has been photographed.  A link to her memorial page at Billiongraves.com is located here.

2. Census Records

     2.1. Federal Census Records

          2.1.1. 1940 Federal Census

               On April 1, 1940, Ora was enumerated in the Frank Bittikofer household in Ward 3, Troy, Miami County, Ohio3, as Ora Bittikofer, wife, age 55.  She was born in Indiana.  Her residence in 1935 was the same location.  She had completed the 5th grade in education.  No occupation was listed.  Her residence was 323 Summit Avenue.

          2.1.2. 1930 Federal Census

               On April 18, 1930, Ora was enumerated in the Frank O. Bittikofer household in Ward 3, Troy, Miami County, Ohio4, as Ora M. Bittikofer, wife, age 46.  She was married at age 23. She was born in Indiana, as were both of her parents.  She could read and write and spoke English.  No occupation was listed.  Her residence was 517 Court Street.

          2.1.3. 1920 Federal Census

               On January 3, 1920, Ora was enumerated in the Frank Bitteroffer household in Bradford, Miami County, Ohio5, as Ora Bitteroffer, wife, age 35. She was born in Indiana, and both her parents were born in Ohio. She could read and write and spoke English.  No occupation was listed.  Her residence was 314 Main Street.  The census enumerator spelled the surname as Bitteroffer.

          2.1.4. 1910 Federal Census

               On April 30, 1910, Ora was enumerated in the Frank Bittikofer household in Recovery Township, Mercer County, Ohio6, as Ora Bittikofer, wife, age 26.  This was her first marriage and she had been married for 6 years.  She was the mother of 2 children, 1 of whom was living.  She was born in Indiana, her father born in Indiana and her mother born in Ohio.  She could read and write and spoke English.  No occupation was listed.

          2.1.5. 1900 Federal Census

               On June 16, 1900, Ora was enumerated in the Robert E. Kimble household in Noble Township, Jay County, Indiana7, as Ora M. Haley, stepdaughter, age 15.  She was born August 1884 in Indiana.  Her father and mother were born in Ohio.  She could read and write and spoke English.

     2.2. State Census Records

          No state census records in Ohio are known to exist.

     2.3. Agricultural Census Records

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

3. Military Records

     3.1. Draft Registration

          Not applicable, as Ora was female.

     3.2. Pension Records

          I am not aware of any military service by Ora's husband or father that would have made her eligible for military benefits.

     3.3. Service Records

          Not applicable, as Ora was female.

4. Land Records

     4.1. Deed Records

          Deed records need to be thoroughly searched in Mercer and Miami Counties, Ohio to see what records might mention Ora and her family.  Will add this to my list of "to-do" items for my next research trip.

     4.2. Plat map / county map

          Will need to search out plat maps in Miami County, Ohio to see if I can locate her family and obtain any additional information.

5. Supplemental Records

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

Sources :

1. Jay County, Indiana Birth Records, Book H-1, page 107.
2. Jay County, Indiana Marriage Records, Book C-J, page 19.
3. 1940 U.S. census, Miami County, Ohio, population schedule, Ward 3, Troy, enumeration district 55-10, SD 4, sheet 2B, 323 Summit Avenue, dwelling 34; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 4 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
4. 1930 U.S. census, Miami County, Ohio, population schedule, Ward 3, Troy, enumeration district 55-7, SD 11, sheet 20A, 517 Court Street, dwelling 551, family 5551; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 3 June 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.

5. 1920 U.S. census, Miami County, Ohio, population schedule, Bradford, enumeration district 220, SD 3, sheet 4B, 314 Main Street, dwelling 91, family 102; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 12 October 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
6. 1910 U.S. census, Mercer County, Ohio, population schedule, Recovery Township, enumeration district 122, SD 9, sheet 11B, dwelling 224, family 226; digital images, Ancestry.com (www.ancestry.com : accessed 31 May 2013); National Archives, Washington, D.C.
7. Robert E. Kimble household, 1900 U.S. census, Jay County, Indiana, population schedule, Noble Township, ED 63, SD 67, sheet 9, dwelling 180, family 182.

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

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Nancy Bales (1844-1866), Henry County, Indiana

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

Nancy Bales (1844-1866) was the daughter of Aaron and Susannah (Russell) Bales.  Her marriage on September 8, 1860 in Henry County, Indiana to Amos Main was found in the database.  Prior to this find, I knew the date of their marriage but not the location.

"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/XXFY-SLD : accessed 15 Aug 2013), Amos Main and Nancy J Bales, 1860.
Nancy was my maternal third cousin six times removed.  Our common ancestors were John Beals and Sarah Bowater.  Nancy died September 17, 1866 in Blue River Township, Henry County, Indiana.  Nothing further is know about the family at this time.

Thursday, October 03, 2013

Joel Bales (1849- ), Randolph County, Indiana

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

Joel Bales (1849-    ) was the son of Amer Jackson and Harriett (Higginbotham) Bales.  His marriage to Mary C. Abbott on March 21, 1871 in Randolph County, Indiana was found in the database.  Prior to this find, I did not have the date or place of their marriage.


"Indiana, Marriages, 1811-1959," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/V5PM-9RT : accessed 14 Aug 2013), Joel F Bales and Mary C Abbott, 1871.
Joel was my maternal fifth cousin five times removed.  Our common ancestors are John Beals and Mary Clayton.  Nothing further is known of Joel and Mary's family at this time.