In a previous post, Joel Johnson, Finding the Facts, I learned about a land sale that occurred 187 years ago today where my maternal 5th great grandfather Asahel Johnson (67 years old) sold some of his property to his youngest son Joel Johnson (36 years old), my 4th great grandfather.  Here is the documentation of this transaction:

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Transcription:

This indenture Made the fourteenth Day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty five between Asahel Johnson of the township of Orwell in the County of Bradford Pa and Buleh his wife of the first part, and Joel Johnson of the township: county and state aforesaid of the second part, witnesseth that the said party of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred Dollars Lawful Money of the United States to him in hand paid by the party of the second part, his heirs executors and administrators by the present have granted bargain, sell, alien, enfeoff[invest with a fee], release and confirm, unto the said party of the second part and to his heirs and assigns all that certain message Lot, piece or parcel of land lying and being in the township of Orwell aforesaid and bounded as follows, viz-

Beginning on the line of lands owned by the heirs of the late Samuel Wells, thence north forty six degrees East two chains and twenty links[145.1'] to a large Beech post and stones for a corner-thence north north forty one degrees west forty seven chains and four links[3,104.64'] to Birch tree for a corner-thence South twenty-eight degrees west eight chains and eleven links[535.26'] to Beech saplin for a corner-thence south forty eight degrees East forty four chains and fifty links[2937'] to the place of beginning containing Twenty one acres fifty-seven perches[940.5'] and four tenths of a perch[6.6']

and allow and ? being a piece or parcel of land conveyed to the said Asahel Johnson by William Pointett and Marianna F. his wife by deed bearing date the Sixteenth day of August AD 1815 and recorded in Bradford County in Deed Book No. 2 page 200.  Together with all the singular the rights, privileges, hereditaments and appurtenances whatsoever thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining, and the servitudes[part of easement] and remainders[future interest in the land], rents issues and profits thereof: And also all the estate, right, title, interest, claim and demand whatsoever of the said party of the first part in law or equity of, in, to or out of the same.  To have and to hold the said hereditaments and premises hereby granted or mentioned or intended so to be, with the appurtenances unto the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns forever, and the said Asahel Johnson for himself, his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns all and singular the hereditaments hereby granted unto the said Joel Johnson his heirs and assigns against the said Asahel and his heirs and against all and every person and persons whomsoever lawfully claiming or to claim the same shall and will warrant and forever defend by these presents In witness whereof the said parties of the first part have hereunto set their hands and seals Dated the day and year first above written

                                                                                                                           Asahel Johnson (seal)

                                                                                                             Beulah (X her mark) Johnson (seal)

Sealed and Delivered in presence of 

Chauncey Frisbie

Byron Flitcher

              Bradford County On the 14^th day of April A.D. 1835 before me the subscriber one of the Justices of the peace in and for the said county the within named Asahel Johnson and Beulah his wife and separately acknowledged the within Indentured to be their respective act and deed and desired the same might be recorded as such The said Beulah being of full age and by me separate and apart form her said husband examined and the content made known to her declared she executed the same of her own free will and accord without any compunction[misgivings] or control of her said said husband Witness my hand and seal the day and year appointed 

                                                                                                             Chauncey Frisbie

              Recorded May 14, 1835 

Some thoughts:

• There is always a challenge reading old land deeds and trying to understand them.  First, I needed to understand the measurements used in a Metes and Bounds survey system.  If you look carefully at the photo on the top of the page (above the word "deed") there is a picture of Gunter's Chain which was an English system of measurement introduced in 1620.  A "chain" is equal to 66 feet.  A "link" is 7.92 inches.  A "perch" is 16.5 feet. If the math is done correctly, I added the distance in feet for additional understanding above within the description of the land.
• This piece of property was about 21 acres in size.
• Beulah was unable to write her name and used a mark.
• After some additional genealogy, I was able to determine that the recorder of the land deed and a witness to the signing, Chauncey Frisbie's father and Joel's father Asahel were two of the early settlers in this area.  An interesting connection between the families.
• Care was taken by Chauncey to determine that Beulah was in agreement with the sale of the property and was not coerced by her husband to sell the property.
• I always chuckle at the markers for the property description: the line of lands owned by the heirs of the late Samuel Wells, to a large Beech post and stones, Birch tree, Beech saplin.  I doubt the markers could be found today.
• Asahel would live another 22 years after the sale of this property.

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share, I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,

Debby

The Will of Joel Johnson

Joel Johnson, my maternal 4th great grandfather, passed away at the age of 81 on 6 November 1880 in Orwell, Bradford County, Pennsylvania.  His Will (located at the Bradford County Historical Society) was dated the 6th of October 1880, a month before he passed away.

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Transcription: 

I, Joel Johnson, of the Township of Orwell in the County of Bradford and State of Pennsylvania being weak in body but of sound mind memory and understanding do make and publish this my last will and testament hereby revoking and making void all former wills by me at any time heretofore made As to such Estate as it hath pleased God to intrust me:  I dispose of the same as follows, First I direct, that all my debts charges and funeral expenses and charges of proving this my will be fully paid and satisfied out of my personal estate.

Item.  I give and bequeath to my beloved wife Saphronia Johnson all my household goods and furniture of every description to be hers absolute and forever: and also all the benefit use income and profits of the balance of my personal property and all of my real estate wherever situate except as here in after directed:

I order and direct and it is my will that Charlotte Maynard my daughter shall live and occupy that portion of part of the house that she now lives in and enjoys with the same privilege she now enjoys during the life time of my wife if she so desires.

Item.  I give to my son Frank E. Johnson all the interest which had accrued on a certain Judgement which I now hold against him in the Court of Common Please of Bradford County No 554 September Term 1876 Debt $2900.00 and written for interest from April 1^st 1876 and I order and direct and it is my will that no further interest shall ever accrue or be paid on said Judgement by my son F. E. Johnson but all payments made upon such Judgement shall be taken and received and applied towards the satisfaction and payment of the said Judgement.  And I further order and direct and it is my will that my son F. E. Johnson shall pay yearly to my beloved wife the Sum of Two Hundred dollars during her life time for her maintenance and support, the some to be applied on said Judgement:  

And further it is my sincere wish and desire that my grandson J. J. Johnson shall remain with and make it his home with my beloved wife.  Whatever property I may have at the death of my wife, if any, after payment of debts-charges abatements & as above directed I give an bequeath to my children living and to the heirs of those that are dead to be divided equally between them Share and Share alike.

Lastly.  I nominate and constitute and appoint my son George N. Johnson Executor of this my last will and testament.  In witness whereof I the said testator Joel Johnson have to this my last will and testament set my hand and seal this the 6^th day of October AD 1880.

                                                                                                             Joel Johnson    (seal)

Signed sealed published and declared by the said testator Joel Johnson as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us who in his presence and at his request have subscribed our names thereto 6^th October AD 1880.

                                                                                                             G. W. Brinks

                                                                                                             Henry Gibbs

Filed January 26^th 1881.  Probate made February 1^st 1881.

Will from the Files of the Bradford County Historical Society No.   #412 pages 385-386

Some thoughts about Joel's Will:

• Joel left his wife Sophronia with goods and income, etc.
• Daughter Charlotte and family, who were living with her parents at the time of the 1870 census, but not in the 1880 census, is able to live in the family house as long as her mother Sophronia is living.
• What was the "Judgement" against son Frank that Joel held?  Joel stopped the interest for Frank to pay but wanted him to pay $200 a year to his mother for her support. I guess, as payment for Joel holding the Judgement and in place of the Interest.
• Grandson J. J. Johnson is, I believe, son Ashel's son, Jerome Joel Johnson.  J.J.'s father had died in 1862.  JJ ( age 21) was living with Joel and Sophronia according to the 1880 census done in June of the year Joel died.
• At the time of Joel's death his sons Asahel, Jehiel, George W. and Avery had predeceased him.  Daughter Harriett had died 1 month before Joel.  
• Of his ten children the following five children were still living at the time of Joel's death: Amanda Johnson Browning (my 3rd great grandmother), Emeline Johnson Russell, George N., Frank and Charlotte.

I always find it interesting, the deposition of property and goods, in helping to piece together the lives of my ancestors, what was important to them as their bodies were failing.

(See previous posts Joel Johnson Finding the Facts,  Tombstone Tuesday-Joel and Sophronia Johnson and Joel Johnson, Biographical Sketch to learn more about the life of Joel Johnson.)

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share, I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,

Debby

Joel Johnson, Biographical Sketch

In the previous post Joel Johnson, Finding the Facts I was able to learn about the facts of my maternal 4th great grandfather Joel Johnson.  These bits of facts contained in census records, church records, legal documents or in the newspaper help me recreate his life story.  

Unfortunately, I can't call him up or go visit him and ask him all the questions I would love to in order to learn more about the person that he was: What made you happy in life? What frustrated you the most? What was it like clearing the land for your farm?  What did you like/hate about growing up in the wilderness?  What made you laugh?  

Sometimes, we get very lucky and we find a great obituary or a biographical sketch that tells us about our ancestor.  I was very fortunate that I was able to find the following information about Joel in the book History of Bradford County, Pennsylvania: with biographical selections by H. C. Brasby on page 924 and published in 1891:

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How interesting that this sketch talks about him lumbering, building a sawmill and even driving a stagecoach and in all the census records he is only listed as a farmer.  I wonder, did he do the lumbering in the Fall and Winter when he wasn't farming?  Did it supplement the family income as he developed his farm?

I am very proud to hear of his "sterling integrity" and his being known for his hospitality, something I would never learn from the 'facts' I found.  He was accustomed to toil and hardships.  I would believe that since he survived and prospered in a wilderness area.  But it was important for the storyteller to comment on this about Joel.  

Along with the facts I had already learned about Joel's life this biographical sketch tells me more of the character of my ancestor.  I am so grateful to learn more, beyond the facts, about my ancestors.

Remember to look for histories of the areas where your early American ancestors lived for information.  Brasby was attempting to present "an immense array of facts concerning nearly every prominent family in the county, both the living and their departed ancestors."  While there is no mention of who or how he gathered the biographical information I am VERY grateful for his history of Bradford County and the biographical selections he provided.

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share, I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,

Debby

Joel Johnson, Finding the Facts

What can I learn about my maternal 4th great-grandfather Joel Johnson? 

 

Joel was the 6th child of 12 born to Asahel and Beula (Hitchcock) Johnson. He was born 18 May 1799 in Orwell, Pennsylvania. Joel’s parents were born and raised in Connecticut before moving to Orwell just two years before he was born. Joel’s birth in the wilderness 

was reported to be that of the first male child born in Orwell, formerly known as Minden. 

In the 1800 US Federal Census Joel’s father Asahel and family are residing in Ulster, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. There were 7 children in the home. In the 1810 US Federal Census Joel’s father Asahel and family are residing in Wysox, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. There were 10 children in the home. 

• This area would become known as the county of Bradford when organized in 1812. 

A 21 year old Joel married 16 year old Sophronia Benham 1 June 1820 in Orwell, Pennsylvania. The couple would have 10 Children: Asahel (b 1821), Amanda (my 3x great-grandmother b. 1822), Jehial (b. 1825), George W. (b. 1827 died 1836 at the age of 9), Harriett (b. 1829) , Emeline (b.1832), Avery (b 1834 died at the age of 3), George N. (born 1838-2 years after brother George W.’s death), Frank E. (b 1841), and Charlotte S. (b. 1843). 

In the 1820 US Federal Census on 7 Aug I am unable to locate Joel. Joel’s father Asahel is not listed in the 1820 census either. I believe Joel and Sophronia were living with a family member which would be difficult to determine on this census since there are only tic marks following the name of the head of the household. 

In the 1830 US Federal Census in Orwell, Bradford County, PA Joel Johnson is listed with the following:  2 males under 5 [Jehial & George W.], 1 male 5-9 [Asahel], 1 male 30-39 [Joel], 1 female under 5 [Harriett], 1 female 5-9 [Amanda], and 1 female 20-29 [Sophronia]. The dwelling listed before Joel is his father Asahel Johnson. The dwelling after Joel is his brother Artemus. 

On 14 April 1835 Joel purchased land from his father Asahel in Orwell. 

On 4 April 1838 Joel purchased land in Pike and Orwell townships. Joel was listed as being from Orwell. 

In the 1840 US Federal Census in Orwell, Bradford County, PA Joel is listed with the following: 1 male under 5 [George], 1 male 10-14 [Jerrell], 1 male 15-19 [farm worker?], 1 male 40-49 [Joel], 1 female 5-9 [Emeline], 1 female 10-14 [Harriett], 1 female 15-19 [help in house?], 1 female 30-39 [Sophronia], 2 persons were noted as employed in Agriculture. Perhaps the male listed as 15-19 years of age was a farm worker? Three dwellings before Joel is his father Asahel Johnson. 

In the 1850 US Federal Census on 20 September in Orwell, Bradford County, PA Joel was 51 years old and listed as born in PA with his occupation being that of a Farmer. His wife Sophronia and children Jehiel, Harriet, Emeline, George, Franklin, Charlotte are also living in the household. A Benjamin Doty age 20 born in NY is also living with them. Could he perhaps be a farm laborer? Living next door to Joel and Sophronia is their daughter Amanda and her family. Living 2 dwellings in the other direction are Joel’s parents Asahel & Beulah Johnson with Joel’s brother Nelson on the other side of his parents. 

December 1855 Joel served on a jury in Orwell. On 7 Aug 1856 the Bradford Reporter newspaper in an article titled Republican Associations states that the citizens of Orwell organized a Republican Association at the school house and Joel Johnson is listed as the President. “At the meeting held July 26, a declaration, platform and constitution, were adopted, and the association is now ready for active exertion in the cause of Freedom.” I wonder if this group had to do with the political feelings leading up to the Civil War?

In the 1860 US Federal Census on 26 July in Orwell, Bradford County, PA Joel is listed as 61 years old and his occupation is a Farmer. His Real Estate Value was $4,000 and his Personal Estate Value was $1,748. His wife Sophronia and children Harriet, George, Frank, and Charlotte are all listed in the home. Mary Johnson 45 is also living with them (perhaps Mary is Joel’s sister?). 

In August 1861 there is Property Sale listing in the newspaper that mentions Joel’s property as a boundary. 

On the 1870 US Federal Census on 21 June in Orwell, Bradford County, PA Joel is listed as 65 years old and having been born in PA. Joel’s occupation is listed again as a Farmer. Joel and his wife Sophronia are living with their daughter Charlotte S., her husband Lycurges L. Mainord and their 5 year old daughter Mertie. 

On the 1880 US Federal Census on 24 June in Orwell, Bradford County, PA Joel is listed as being 81years old, born in PA, with his father & mother being born in CT. Joel’s occupation is again listed as Farmer. Living in the house with him are his wife Sophronia, daughter Harriett (Dress Maker), nephew Jerome Johnson [Joel’s son Asahel’s son], and niece Mary Russell [Joel’s daughter Emeline’s daughter]. Perhaps Harriett gave the information to the census taker and she listed Mary and Jerome as ‘her’ niece and nephew. They are Joel and Sophronia’s grandchildren. 

Joel died at age 81 on 6 November 1880 in Orwell and is buried in Orwell Hill Cemetery. Joel’s wife Sophronia would live another 13 years after her husband’s death and be buried next to her husband. (See post Tombstone Tuesday-Sophronia and Joel Johnson.)

I was surprised how much information I was able to find on Joel from the 1800s.  I find it interesting how different family members lived with Joel and Sophronia over the years.  Why in 1870 are Joel and Sophronia listed as living with their daughter but in 1880 Joel is again listed as head of household?  Was the information in 1870 given incorrectly as the son-in-law being the head of household?  

I've learned a lot about where he lived, what he did but, unfortunately, it doesn't tell me a lot about the person he was,  what he believed in and what he thought about life.  Wouldn't it be great to just have an hour or so to talk to our ancestors?

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share, I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,

Debby

The Life of Sheffield Wilcox, Sr.

My maternal 6^th great-grandfather, Sheffield Wilcox, Sr. would travel over 1,000 miles in his lifetime. What could I learn about his life as he grew up and became a man as the colonies began to desire and fight for freedom from Great Britain?

Sheffield was born on 2 April 1746 in Washington County, Rhode Island to Edward and Esther Wilcox. Sheffield would meet Eunice Ross and they would marry on 11 Dec 1771. Their children would also be born there before deciding to leave for parts west.

In the 1774 Rhode Island Census Sheffield his wife and daughter Lois are living in Richmond, Rhode Island, British America.

Following the Revolutionary War the Wilcoxes, Sheffield Sr., his wife Eunice and children Lois (my 5th great-grandmother), Thomas, Rowland, Freeman, Sheffield Jr., Amy, Desire, Eunice and Jemima first went to the Cooperstown, New York area on Otsego Lake and remained a short time before moving down the River. I wonder why they decided to move to the Cooperstown area in the first place and why they then left?

In the 1800 US Federal Census Sheffield his wife and 5 children are living in Burington, Otsego, New York. Otsego county was officially established in February 1791. The town of Burlington, NY was organized 10 April 1792. Burlington was an area with ridges being about 400 feet above the valleys. In 1795 then Governor of New York, George Clinton, established common schools throughout New York State.

Next the family went down the Susquehanna River to Monroe township, Bradford County, Pennsylvania. They lived there on the west side of the Towanda creek, about ¾ mile below the Monroeton bridge. Sheffield and his sons scouted out locations in the area called Albany for their new home.

In the Spring of 1804 Sheffield moved his family to Albany, Bradford County, Pennsylvania. To get to this new home in Albany township they had to cross the Towanda creek 11 times. Sheffield and three of his four sons were among the first group of settlers in Albany township, PA. According to Clement Heverly in his book Pioneer and Patriot Families of Bradford County Pennsylvania 1770-1800 “the country was a wild and dreary prospect, inhabited only by savage animals. The woods were full of deer and brook trout were found in myriads in the streams.” Their nearest neighbors were several miles away. Sheffield built his cabin on a little plateau. The cabin reportedly had all the novelties of pioneer style and was a one story building floored with split plank with a huge fireplace at one end.

In the 1810 US Federal Census Sheffield, his wife and 6 members of his family are living in Towanda, Luzerene County, Pennsylvania. Bradford County was created in February 1810 from parts of Lycoming and Luzerne Counties. Census day was August 6^th, 1810. Interesting that the County was still listed as Luzerne County in the Census.

His wife of 42 years, Eunice, died suddenly on 29 Oct 1813. Sheffield gave his house to son Rowland after the death of Eunice and continued to reside there with his son and family.

In the 1820 US Federal Census Sheffield and 6 family members are living in Asylum, Bradford County, Pennsylvania.

Sheffield died a few months short of his 80^th birthday on 27 Feb 1826 in Albany, Bradford, PA. According to Heverly’s book Sheffield was described as a “very strong man, medium height and well proportioned with the reputation of being a great worker”. Sheffield is buried in the Wilcox Stevenson Cemetery in New Albany, Bradford County, PA.

I still find it so interesting to see how much my ancestors moved around in the late 1700-early 1800s. Sheffield moved by horse from Washington County, RI to Burlington, NY to Albany, PA a distance of over 1,000 miles.

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,
Debby

Reviewing a Death Certificate and Mortality Statistics for William Way Browning

Sometimes it takes a lot of work to find a death certificate or just the listing of a death in a ledger.  For my maternal 3rd great-grandfather I was easily able to find a copy of William’s death certificate on-line. 

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Now that I have a copy I wanted to really look at the certificate and see what information there is on this certificate.  Does the information match what I have already learned and what is new information?

I already knew: William lived in a rural area and he was a chairmaker.  William’s date of birth and death, occupation, father’s name and birthplace.  When I look at the mother’s information I see there is an error.  William’s son who gave the information (E.I. Browning) gave the name of William’s wife Amanda (son’s mother) instead of William’s mother (Lucy Welles Weaver).

What I learned:  the death certificate number, cause of death, duration of illness, who gave the information about William for the death certificate, the address where William lived with his son, date of burial and the Undertaker’s name.  Interesting that William was buried 10 days after he died.  That seems like a long time in 1908.

Frequently, in genealogical research, we get sidetracked with something that takes us down a path that we commonly refer to as a ‘rabbit hole’ and we may get lost there for hours. I wanted to learn more about William’s cause of death and went down a new rabbit hole but it gave me some interesting information.

On the death certificate it looks like the cause of death is ‘Urae’… something? Hmm?  As I googled and searched and reviewed the spelling I decided it must say ‘Uraemia’.  Well, what exactly does that mean? 

• “Uraemia"  is a dangerous condition that occurs when the kidneys no longer filter properly. It's likely to occur when a person is in the final stage of chronic kidney disease.

So, William was 92 years old and had chronic kidney disease lasting for 10 days as well as Arterio Sclerosis which he’d had for about 10 months.  Well, as I was researching ‘uraemia’ I had looked at common listings of death in 1908 hoping that would tell me something about ‘uraemia’ and before I knew it…I went down the rabbit hole and learned about death rates and causes in 1908.  How did William’s death fit into the statistics?

• In 1908 life expectancy for men was just 49.5 years.  Wow, William had lived 43.5 years longer than the average life expectancy for a man of his time.
• “The year 1908 was a year of remarkably low mortality throughout the United States," according to a comprehensive report called the "Bulletin" from the U.S. Department of Commerce and Labor titled Mortality Statistics: 1908.

I wondered what the Mortality Statistics were and if they would add something additional to William’s story?

• According to the Mortality Statistics (for the states that supplied information) the top 5 causes of death for males were:  All other and unknown causes, Tuberculosis of the lungs,  Other diseases of the digestive system, Other accidents and injuries, and heart disease.  I am thinking based on the list that William’s cause of death would fall in the first category of ‘All other and unknown causes’.

Looking at the deaths in Bradford County, Pennsylvania (#410) in the age group 90-94

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I see there is only one reported death.  That one must be William.  He was the oldest person to die that year in Bradford County.  He truly lived a very long life as compared to the general public.  Very interesting.  There were a total of 93 people that died in the county that year that were above the 50 years of age expectancy for men.  Did the rural life or genetics or lifestyles of the residents add to their high rate of longevity?

I would definitely use the Mortality Statistics again, especially to see how my ancestor’s cause of death compared to the general population.  This would also show deaths due to epidemics.  In 1908 the country was starting to look at occupations of those that died to determine if there was a correlation between occupation and cause of death.  Looking beyond the general information in a record can tell us so much more about the times in which our ancestor’s lived.

To learn more about William see posts Celebrating the Life of William Way Browning and The Joys of a Comprehensive Obituary – William Way Browning.

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,
Debby

The Joys of a Comprehensive Obituary - William Way Browning

For a researcher an ‘Obituary’ can give us valuable information about the life of an ancestor we never knew.  A comprehensive obituary can give us valuable vital statistics, names of parents, siblings and possibly tell us about the occupation of our ancestor.  For me, the best obituary contains information about the personality of my ancestor.  I can generally locate information elsewhere about the facts of their life but where, outside of an obituary, can I learn about the person they were?

The following obituary for my maternal 3rd great-grandfather William Browning is one of the most comprehensive that I have found to date:

(click on image to enlarge)
obtained from the Files of the Bradford County Historical Society

Transcription:

One of Towanda’s Oldest Citizens

William W. Browning, one of Towanda’s oldest and most highly respected citizens, passed from mortal ken Friday night. He had been in poor health for a long time and in bed for five weeks, with ailments incident to old age and peacefully passed away at 11:45 o’clock at the home of his son, Councilman E. I. Browning on Mechanic street.

William W. Browning was born in Orwell township on Jan. 20, 1816, his parents being pioneer settlers in that township. When a youth he learned the trade of chairmaking, a vocation he followed in Orwell township until 1874, when he came to Towanda and entered the employ of the late J. O. Frost, continuing with the firm of J. O. Frost Sons until failing health compelled his retirement. His wife died six years ago, since which time he has made his home with his son on Mechanic street.

Deceased was of a kind, friendly disposition, honest as the day, and firm in his friendships. His allotment of 92 years were quietly spent in humble pursuits, he being content with the simple life, as it were, doing his very best always. All during his residence in Towanda, he was a good citizen, a man worthy of respect and esteem at all times. He was a charter member of the Towanda Universalist church.

He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. L.M. Coolbaugh of Lockwood, N.Y. and two sons, E.I. Browning of Towanda, and Gay Browning of Susquehanna. There are no brothers of sisters of the deceased, he being the last of his immediate family.

The funeral was held on Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Browning home on Mechanic street, and interment was made in the Riverside cemetery.

Unfortunately, I am not sure of the newspaper this was found in.  I am, however, so grateful for this account of William’s life especially the third paragraph which gives me such rich information about the character of my third great-grandfather.  I wonder what his ‘humble pursuits’ were?

To read more on the life of William see post Celebrating the Life of William Way Browning.

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,
Debby

Celebrating the Life of William Way Browning

William Way Browning

Today is the 205^th birthday of my maternal 3rd great-grandfather William Way Browning.  I wanted to remember him on his birthday and see what I could learn about him.

William was born 20 January 1816 in Orwell, Bradford County, Pennsylvania to John Wilkes and Lucy Welles Weaver Browning. William was the 5^th of 6 children.

William (25 years old) is first found in the 1840 US Federal Census living by himself in Towanda, Bradford, PA employed in Manufacture and Trade.

William (age 32) married Amanda Johnson De Leon (age 26) on 1 November 1848 in Orwell, Bradford County, PA and had the following children: Harriett (my 2^nd great grandmother), Eustace, Guy. I believe this may have been a second marriage for William as well as Amanda.

1850 US Federal Census on the 20^th day of September shows William (34 years old) living with his wife Amanda and baby daughter Harriet, 3 months old (my 2^nd great grandmother) in Orwell, Bradford County, PA with his occupation listed as a Chair Maker working in the Industry of Furniture and Fixtures. His Real Estate is valued at $400. His birthplace is listed as Pennsylvania. William and family are living next door to his inlaws-Joel and Sophronia Johnson. William’s brother Ephraim Browning (aged 31) is listed as living next door and his occupation is also a Chairmaker. I wonder if they worked together?

1860 US Federal Census on the 26^th of July shows William (44 years old) living in Orwell, Bradford, PA with his wife Amanda and four children. His Occupation is Chair Maker and his Real Estate is valued at $1400 and his Personal Estate is valued at $740. There is a Chair Maker apprentice, Edwin Sherman, aged 17 living with them also. William’s birthplace is listed as Pennsylvania.

1870 US Federal Census on the 15^th of August shows William (54 years old) living in LeRaysville, Bradford, PA with his wife Amanda and two children. His Occupation is Hotel Keeper. His Real Estate is valued at $2000 and his Personal Estate is valued at $1000. William’s birthplace is listed as Pennsylvania. I wonder how many hotels there were in LeRaysville in 1870?

1880 US Federal Census on 19^th of June shows William (62 years old) living in Towanda, Bradford, PA (Paptor Road) with his wife Amanda, one son and one granddaughter Flora DeLeon. Their daughter Amanda had a child by her first marriage named Florence. When she remarried it looks like her daughter went to live with her parents. (see post Followup-Hattie Browning DeLeon Coolbaugh) His Occupation is Chair Maker. William’s birthplace is listed as Pennsylvania. His mother and father’s birthplaces are listed as Massachusetts. Interesting, I have information that says his parents were born in Rhode Island?

1900 US Federal Census on 20^th of June shows William (84 years old) living in Towanda, Bradford, PA (19 Mechanic St West Side) His Occupation is Cabinet Maker. William’s birthplace is listed as Pennsylvania. Year of Birth-1816. His mother and father’s birthplaces are listed as Rhode Island. He can read, write and speak English. He Rents a home. He married Amanda in 1848. His son Eustace and his family live next door.

William’s wife Amanda died 23 June 1902.  They were married 5 months shy of 54 years when she passed.

William died six years later on 11 Dec 1908 at the age of 92 in Towanda, Bradford County, PA His Occupation was listed as a Chairmaker (death certificate). His son Eustace gave the information for the death certificate.

William is buried in the Riverside Cemetery in Towanda, PA.

I wonder what type/style of chairs William made and if any of them still exist?

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,
Debby

More on the Life of Asahel Johnson

Friday marked the 252^nd anniversary of the birth of my maternal 5x great grandfather Asahel Johnson. I originally told the story of Asahel in a post entitled Celebrating the Life of Asahel Johnson last year. This year I thought I would honor his birthday with some additional information I have been able to locate that tells more of his life’s story.

In the 1790 US Federal Census (1^st US Federal Census) Asahel is listed in Bristol, Hartford County, Connecticut. Also listed are 3 Free White Males under the age of 16, 2 Free White Males 16 and over, and 6 Free White Females. 11 total Household Members.
In the winter of 1795-6 Asahel Johnson and Zenas Cook first came to Sheshequin and made that there base while they explored the area for a location to settle. Asahel decided on the Orwell area, purchasing Towner Hill.

In 1797 Asahel Johnson and 2 others permanently joined the new settlement of Orwell Township, founded one year prior. The town was 6 miles square and was first called Menden.

In the 1800 US Federal Census Asahel is listed as having his home in Ulster, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. The listing includes 2 Free White Males under the age of 10, 1 Free White Male 10-15 years of age, 1 Free White Male aged 16-25, 1 Free White Male aged 26-44, 2 Free White Females under the age of 10, 1 Free White Female age 10-15, 1 Free White Female age 26-44, 9 Members total in the Household.

In the 1810 US Federal Census Asahel is living in Wyasox, Luzerne County, PA. There are listed 1 Free White Male under age 10, 1 Free White Male aged 10-15, 2 Free White Males aged 16-25, 1 Free White Male aged 26-44, 4 Free White Females under age 10, 1 Free White Female aged 10-15, 1 Free White Female aged 16-25, 1 Free White Female aged 26-44, Number of Slaves 12, 24 total Household Members.

Bradford County, PA was founded in 1812-13. In a list of “Residents at County Organization-the taxable inhabitants (all males 21 years and over and females owning property) at the organization of Bradford County as ascertained from assessment rolls, voting lists and other sources” shows Asahel Johnson living in Orwell.

On 10 February 1815 in The Susquehanna Democrat newspaper (Wilkes-Barre, PA) on page 4 reports in a column entitled “LETTERS ON HAND, At Bridegwater Post Office, Susquehanna County, PA” that on 31 December 1814 Asahel Johnson had mail.

On 10 August 1815 there was a Federal-Republican meeting for the towns of Wysox and Towanda. A committee was appointed to call a delegate meeting of the townships and Asahel Johnson was on the committee for Orwell township.

I have been unable, yet, to locate Asahel in the 1820 US Federal Census.

In the 1830 US Federal Census I find 

possibly, Aseal Johnson

right above my 4x great grandfather Joel Johnson in Orwell, Bradford, PA. In this listing there is 1 Free White Male aged 20-29, 1 Free White Male aged 60-69, 1 Free White Female age10-14, 1 Free White Female ages 60-69, 4 Total in Household. I believe this is Asahel.

In the 1840 US Federal Census Asahel is listed as having his home in Orwell, Bradford, Pennsylvania. The listing included 1 Free White Male aged 70-79, 1 Free White Female aged 20-29, 1 Free White Female aged 70-79, 1 Person Employed in Agriculture, 3 Total All Persons in Household.

In the 1850 US Federal Census taken on 20 September for Orwell, Bradford County, Pennsylvania, Asahel is an occupant of the area on 1 June and listed as a Farmer by occupation, 82 years of age, born in CT. Also on the list are his wife Beulah age 80, Mary Johnson age 38, born in PA and Azubah Fletcher age 55, born in Vermont.

I also found the following notation about Asahel “Married Beulah Hitchcock in 1788. The children were, as listed in the Bible of Asahel Johnson and his son Joel: Lydia, Artemus, Simeon, Amanday, Charlotte, Joel (my), Welthy, Julia, Clarissa, Lydia (2^nd), Nelson, and Mary.” Oh, to be able to locate that family Bible and see the handwriting of my ancestors.

This information adds so much more to the story of the  life of Asahel Johnson then I previously knew.  I like to go back occasionally and see what else I can find on my ancestors.  New information continues to become available, so the story of their lives continues to grow.  Don’t be discouraged if at first there seems to be only a small bit of information.

If you have any corrections or additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.
Enjoy the journey,
Debby

Wedding and Anniversary of MM and Betsey Granteer Coolbaugh

One Hundred and Seventy Eight years ago today, in 1841, my maternal 3x great grandparents Marvin Milton Coolbaugh, aged 20 years, and Abigail Betsey Granteer, aged 18 years, were married in Canton, Bradford County, Pennsylvania.  (clink on links to read more about their lives from previous posts)

Betsey was born and raised in Canton.  She was the oldest of 4 daughters born to David and Rhonda Kilborn Granteer.  Marvin was born and raised about 20 miles away in Monroeton, Pennsylvania.  I wonder how the couple met?  What were the hopes and dreams in 1841 for a young couple as they were starting a new life together?

Their wedding announcement was listed in the Bradford Porter newspaper on Wednesday, November 3, 1841:

Also published in a column entitled ‘They Were Sweethearts Long Ago’ in The Bradford Star newspaper on Thursday, May 31, 1900:

The Rev. S. W. Alden was Marvin’s maternal uncle Severellon Wells Alden, minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church (descendant of John and Priscilla Alden of the Mayflower).

Thirty-Five years later the couple celebrated their Anniversary with the following account recorded in The Canton Independent-Sentinel on 12 October 1876, page 3:

(click on image to enlarge)

Transcription:

A Fine Time of a ‘Lunch.”

The Thirty-Fifth Anniversary of the Connubial Pilgrimage of Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Coolbaugh of Monreoton.

Several Cantonians Present At The Feast.

A Fine Time Well Enjoyed.

Editor Sentinel:  Marvin Coolbaugh and wife, having enjoyed matrimonial felicity for just thirty-five years, on the 27th ult, concluded to make a mark by a good, strong tally, at the Thirty-fifth Anniversary of their connubial pilgrimage, by enjoying what “Marv” was pleased to call a “lunch.”  Consequently a few of heir friends had due notice served upon them, “To lay aside all excuses whatsoever, and to be, and appear, at Mr. & Mrs. Coolbaugh’s, on the said 27th day of October, in their proper sersons, under a penalty better imagined then defined; and to govern themselves accordingly.”  As there are few persons who can well afford to disregard “Marv’s” constabulary authority, so prodigious in its momentum, and for various other reasons needless to mention, most of those summonded entered an appearance promptly at the time.
     Your correspondent, of course, was there, and concluded to make a note of all that was passing.  Among the parties present from Canton, (Mrs. Coolbaugh’s native city,) we noticed Mr. Jay Whitehead, Mr. Ezekiel Newman, and Mr. E. L. Manley; each bringing his wife, and each having married a sister of Mrs. Coolbaugh.  Last but not least, from Canton, was their daughter, Bertha Cranmer, at home to see “Ma” and enjoy the festivities of the occasion.  Her eyes as dark and as sharp as ever; healthful and blooming countenance, all sprightliness and vivacity, she appeared to be regarded by her aunts and all as the life and animus of the party.
     Their sons were at home with their wives, for a flying call, making of the family record B.F. Coolbaugh and wife from Sayre, and P. M. Coolbaugh and lady (my 2x great grandparents), from Towanda.  I noticed, also, Mrs. E.B. Coolbaugh, of Towanda.  Then turning to the representatives from Monroe, I found Mrs. Judge Tracy, Mrs. L. G. Hollon, Miss Mary Arnot, Mr. and Mrs. Jared F. Woodruff, and Rev. S. W. Alden, who officiated at the interesting occasion thirty-five years ago, and now, accompanied by his lady, the old “Elder,” by mistake, left his aches and pains at home, and really appeared rejuvinated again.
     In the midst of the finest flow of convivial chat, Marvin appeared, and called their attention to that part of the bill of fare which he had denominated as a “lunch.”  Well, if that was a lunch, I wonder how and where even Solomon found room for dinner.  We all enjoyed it in the largest style possible, and in fact, devoured it until I was ashamed to look a live turkey in the face.  You may thus form an estimate of how it was gotten up.
     Marvin Strictly objected to any presents for the occasion, but childish dodges finely evaded his serious mandate.  Four of their children were present, and five grandchildren.
     Among other presents and valuable keepsakes, I noticed a paper of pins to Grandma, that she might “keep her ears pinned on.”  Looking further, a comb was inscribed to Grandpa, that “the animals might not get the mastery over him.”  O, these mischievous little grandbabies, they annoy as well as please.  “Marv.” laughed at their jokes in spite of his natural seriousness.
     All wiped their mouths and went away “Resolved to meet some other day.”
                                                                            L.C.

What a joyous occasion that Anniversary celebration sounds like it must have been!  I so appreciate all the detail LC added to my family story.  What insight into the personalities of Marv and Betsey. 

Happy Anniversary Marv and Betsey!!

If you have any corrections, additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.
Enjoy the journey,
Debby

                                                                        

Death and Obituary for MM Coolbaugh

My maternal 3x great-grandfather, MM Coolbaugh died on the 13th of September 1879 at the age of 58.  His death is noted on the US Federal Census Mortality Schedules for 1880.  Schedule 5, lists “Persons who died during the year ending May 31, 1880, enumerated by me in the Monroe Township, in the County of Bradford, State of Pennsylvania, U M Pratt, Enumerator.”

(click on image to enlarge) 

This schedule states: 
Marvin Coolbaugh, Male, White, Married, Estimated Year of Birth-abt 1821, Birth Place-Pennsylvania, Age-58, Occupation-Constable, Death Date-Sep 1879, Cause of Death-Brain Disease of Abscess of Brain.

MM’s obituary was listed in the Bradford Reporter on Thursday, Sept. 18, 1879:

Marvin M. Coolbaugh, an old and respected citizen of Monroeton, died at his residence in that village on Saturday last, aged 58 years.  He was buried on Monday.  The burial services were conducted by the Order of Odd-Fellows.

For more information on the life of Marvin M. Coolbaugh see posts MM Coolbaugh and Tombstone Tuesday with a Twist. 

If you have any corrections, additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.

Enjoy the journey,
Debby

Tombstone Tuesday with a Twist

For this Tombstone Tuesday I would like to remember the life of my maternal 3x great-grandfather MM Coolbaugh.  For information on the life of Marvin Milton Coolbaugh see the previous post entitled MM Coolbaugh.

M. M. Coolbaugh

Died Sept. 13, 1879

AE 58 yrs

MM is buried in Monroeton Cemetery, Monroeton, Bradford, PA

I started out thinking this would be just a tombstone picture and learned something very interesting about my ancestor when I noticed the following at the top of the tombstone and wondered what it meant:

Does the chain with the letters F, L and T mean something?  It certainly does!

This insignia represents the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.), also known as “The Three Link Fraternity” which stands for Friendship, Love and Truth.
The Oddfellows were established in 1819 as a non-political and non-sectarian international fraternal order of Odd Fellowship.  

They became the first national fraternity to: 

• include men and women
• establish homes for their senior members and for orphaned children

Click on the picture below to see a short video I found on YouTube about the Oddfellows:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhDzcKY1Q6I

So, MM was a member of the Oddfellows.  The first ancestor I have found who belonged to this fraternal organization.  I wonder if I can locate the local Oddfellows Lodge where MM might have been a member and learn more about him?

Sometimes a tombstone has valuable information just waiting there for you to find it.

If you have any corrections, additions or stories to share I look forward to hearing them.
Enjoy the journey,
Debby