Sophia E Brown

Sophia E Brown is the 2nd Great Grand Aunt to my wife.  She is the daughter of Odin Brown and Sally Stevens.

Sophia was born 2 Mar 1848 in Boone County, Illinois.  She was the 6th born child to Odin and Sally.  Odin would go on to father 10 more children from two wives.  Sophia was the first child born in Illinois.  The next seven children would all be born here.  In the first record for Sophia, the 1850 Federal Census, the family is farming and living in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.   The 1860 Census is much the same, it does note that Sophia is attending school at that time.

By 1870 Sophia is married to Silas Durkee and has two children.  She is residing in Buffalo, Erie County, New York.  The eldest child, Gordon, is two years old and is noted as being born in the State of New York.  So the family has been there at least the previous two years.  I can't make out the profession of her husband. I'll post it below.

Sophia's sister, Carrie, is living with them.  Her profession is dress maker.

Sophia and Silas are still residing in Buffalo, Erie County, New York during the next Federal Census of 1880.  Silas's profession at that time is Drug Clerk.  Makes me think his earlier profession is most likely 'clerk in store'.  They now have three children.  By 1884 Sophia is remarried.  It is unknown whether her and Silas are divorced or if he has passed away.  Silas most likely died before 1884.  Her second husband's name is Albert Frederick Hoge.

The next available census, the 1900 Federal Census, finds Sophia and second husband, Albert, living in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming.  Sophia's oldest brother, Hubbel, has been living here since at least 1888.  This is what most likely brought her to Wyoming.  Her husband's profession is farming.  She has one son living with her.  It is noted that she is the mother of three children, and all are still living at the time of the census.  Living next door is her daughter, Carrie, with her husband and children.

Sophia passes away the following year, 1901, on June 22nd.  She was 53 years old at the time of her death. She is buried in the Mount Moriah Cemetery in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming.  Inscribed on her headstone was the following, "She was a kind and affectionate wife, a kind mother, and a friend to all".

She is buried next to her second husband, Albert Hoge, and her son, Gordon.

Sophia E Brown and Silas Durkee had the following children:

1. Silas Gordon Durkee - born 2 March 1868 in New York.  Died 3 October 1923 in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming.  Never married.

2. Charles L Durkee - born in December of 1869 in New York.  Death unknown.  Married Adelaide, surname unknown.

3. Carrie Gertrude Durkee - born 15 November 1876 in New York.  Died 8 November 1963 in San Diego, San Diego County, California.  She married Thomas Hawken.

Dorothy Charles

Dorothy Charles is my 4th Great Grand Aunt, the sister of the my 4th Great Grandmother, Sarah Walker Charles.

Dorothy was born 17 July 1807 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine.  She is the daughter of Joseph Charles and Dorothy Abbott.

Dorothy married Benjamin Franklin Langdon some time before 1832, the year her oldest child was born.  The first record found that would include Dorothy is the 1840 Federal Census.  Even though the 1840 census only lists the head of household, no spouses or children, we can assume the female listed is Dorothy.  The place of the census is Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.  The head of household is listed as Franklin Langdon.  Residing with Franklin are 1 male under the age of 5, 2 males between 5 and 9, 1 female age 30 to 39 and 1 female aged 70 to 79.  This older female was most likely the mother of Benjamin as Dorothy's parents are residing next door.

The next record, the 1850 Federal Census, we find Dorothy without her husband, still residing in Wethersfield, now Wyoming County, New York.  She still has her three sons living with her as well as a younger sister, Miranda.  The owned real estate is valued at $2800.  Her profession is listed as farming.

Like several of the other Charles' children we next find Dorothy in Michigan.  The census year is 1860 and she is residing in Richland, Kalamazoo County, Michigan, with her oldest son Samuel Langdon and his wife, Emily Woods.  Also living with them is her youngest son, and his father's namesake, Benjamin Franklin Langdon.  Dorothy has personal belongings valued at $60.

In 1870 Dorothy still resides in Richland but this time she is living in the household of her youngest son, Benjamin.  She has real estate valued at $2800.  Her son is farming.  Next door is her son, Samuel (widowed with two children).  In the 1880 Federal Census the situation is nearly the same except Samuel is no longer next door.

Dorothy dies 31 August 1888 in Richland, Kalamazoo County, Michigan.  She is buried in the Wethersfield cemetery in Wethersfield, New York with her husband.

Dorothy Charles and Benjamin Franklin Langdon had the following children:

1. Samuel C Langdon - born 22 January 1832 in New York.  Died 24 July 1915 in Paris, Kent County, Michigan.  Married (1st) Emily Wood, (2nd) Amanda Talman, (3rd) Minnie Munshaw.
2. Richard Langdon - born 4 June 1834 in New York.  Died 9 June 1895 in New York.  Married Nancy Morgan.
3. Benjamin Franklin Langdon - born 2 September 1840.  Died 29 June 1904 in Richland, Kalamazoo County, Michigan.  Married Mary Gortner.

Brown children: Caroline, Frederick, Ellen, Alvah, Rosa, George and Daisy

The following Brown relatives are all 2nd Great Grand Uncle/Aunts of my wife.  They are the children of Odin Brown and Sally Stevens or Odin's 2nd wife, Helen Chamberlain.

Caroline Brown

Caroline can be found living with her parents in the 1850 and 1860 Federal Censuses in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  She was born about 1844 in New York. The only other record found for Caroline is the 1870 Federal Census in which she is living with her sister, Sophia, in Buffalo, Erie County, New York.  In the 1870 record it is noted that her occupation is a dress makes.  No other known records exist for Caroline.

Frederick Brown

Frederick can be found living with his parents in the 1850 and 1860 Federal Censuses in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  He was born about 1846 in New York. No other known records exist for Frederick.

Ellen Brown

Frederick can be found living with her parents in the 1850 and 1860 Federal Censuses in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  She was born about 1850 in Illinois. Ellen is buried in the Russellville Cemetery in Boone County, Illinois. No other known records exist for Ellen.

Alvah R Brown

Alvah can be found living with his parents in the 1860 Federal Census in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  He as born about 1852 in Illinois.  Alvah died 20 October 1860 and is buried in the Russellville Cemetery in Boone County, Illinois.

Rosalinda Brown

Rosalinda can be found living with her parents in the 1860 Federal Census in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  She as born about 1854 in Illinois.  Rosalinda died 2 November 1861 and is buried in the Russellville Cemetery in Boone County, Illinois.

George C Brown


George was born about 1864 in Illinois.  He died 19 November 1864 and is buried in the Russellville Cemetery in Boone County, Illinois.  George was the youngest child of Sally Stevens.  His father, Odin, when remarry after Sally's death in 1867.

Daisy Brown

Daisy Brown was the first born child to Odin Brown and his 2nd wife, Helen Chamberlain.  Daisy was born 2 August 1873 in Capron, Boone County, Illinois.  Daisy died 28 March 1875 in Sterling, Johnson County, Nebraska.  She is buried in the Sterling Cemetery there.

Nehemiah Charles

Nehemiah Charles was born 18 April 1803 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine.  He was the fifth child born to Joseph Charles and Dorothy Abbott.

We know that Nehemiah was married in the year 1830 because of the obituary of his wife, Anna Maria Langdon, in the state of New York.

The first record found for Nehemiah is the 1850 Federal Census taken in North Plains, Ionia County, Michigan.  Mr. Charles has real estate valued at $400 and he is farming.  From this record we confirm his birth state of Maine.  We can also ascertain approximately when he moved from the state of New York, where he wed Anna, to Michigan by the birth states of his children.  His youngest in this record, Albion, was born in Michigan and is 4 years old.  His next youngest child, Wallace, is 7 years old and was born in New York.  So the Charles' moved sometime between 1843 and 1846 to Michigan.  I believe I read that Nehemiah and his family moved to Ionia County in the year 1844 with his sister Sarah Walker Charles' family (husband Chauncey Conkey).  I can't find the article that I believe I read this in.

Note: The eldest child found living in the 1850 Federal Census is Paul Charles, born 1832, in New York.  I make note of this for two reasons.  First, is that birth date confirms the obituary account of the approximate marriage year of Nehemiah in 1830.  Second, it is believed, from the information from another researcher, that Nehemiah's eldest son was actually Abner, born about 1823 in New York.  In order for Abner to be the son of Nehemiah would mean that Abner is not the son of Anna Maria Langdon.  Anna's obituary makes no mention of Abner.  I have not been able to find an obituary for Nehemiah - or of Abner, his supposed son.  I have not been able to confirm Abner's relation either way - if we look at paper proof (census records, obituary) it would lead one to assume that Abner is not related as he is never mentioned.

The 1860 Federal Census still finds the family farming in North Plains, Ionia County, Michigan.  The real estate is now valued at $2000 and personal belongings at $800.  The 1870 Federal Census also finds the family in a similar situation.  It's interesting to note in the 1870 record that the eldest son, Paul, is still residing with his parents at the age of 38.  It's also interesting to note that both Nehemiah and his son, Paul, are noted with real estate values, yet residing together.  Nehemiah's value is $3500 and Paul's real estate value is $5400.  Living next door in 1870 is another son, William, on his own farm valued at $3200.

The family is still farming and living in North Plains in the next census of 1880.

Nehemiah passes away 23 September 1888, he is 85 years of age when he dies.  He is buried in the North Plains Cemetery.  No photo available at this time.

Nehemiah Charles and Anna Maria Langdon had the following children:

1. Abner Charles (mother unknown) (possibly not related) - born about 1823 in New York.  Marries first Charlotte (surname unknown) and second Jane (surname unknown).  Death date unknown but would be after 1880.
2. Paul Langdon Charles - born 16 February 1832 in New York. Dies 15 November 1911 in North Plains, Ionia County, New York.  Marries Addie Wilder.
3. Miranda L(Langdon?) Charles - born 9 November 1833 in New York.  Dies 11 March 1917 in Ionia County, Michigan.  Marries Dolphus Kneeland.
4. Mary Ann Charles - born 15 March 1835 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New  York.  Dies 1 June 1911 in Muir, Ionia County, New York. Marries John Henry Stevens.
5. Jane A Charles - born October 1837 in New York. Dies after 1910.  Never married.
6. William F Charles - born July 1840 in New York.  Dies 29 February 1924 in North Plains, Ionia County, Michigan.  Marries Nancy Dalzell.
7. Wallace Charles - born September 1843 in New York.  Dies after 1920.  Marries Mary Elizabeth Marsh.
8. Albion Charles - born November 1846 in Michigan.  Dies after 1910.  Never married.

Morton Brown

Morton Brown is the 2nd Great Grand Uncle to my wife.  Morton is the second eldest male born to Odin Brown and Sally Stevens.  He was born 5 February 1842 somewhere in Michigan.

The first record found for Morton is the 1850 Federal Census.  In this census the family is living in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  Morton is 8 years old at the time and it is noted in the census that he is attending school. The family is farming.

Not much different to report at the next Federal Census of 1860.  Morton is again living at home in Boone, Boone County, Illinois and the family is still farming.

Sometime before 1870 Morton marries Helen Smith.  In the 1870 Morton and his new wife are still found residing in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  They have two children living at home, Eva and Henry.  Morton is still farming.  He owns his property valued at $3000 and his personal property is valued at $1100.

1880 Federal Census again finds the family farming and living in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  His daughter, Eva, has passed away so the only child living at home is Henry.  They do have a servant living with them at this time, Clara Scougal.

I cannot locate the family in the 1900 Federal Census.  Morton's wife, Helen, passes away in 1898.  Morton dies 5 March 1909.  He, along with his wife, daughter and son, are all buried in the Russellville Cemetery in Boone County, Illinois.  The headstone picture is below.

Morton Brown and Helen Smith had the following children:

1. Eva Brown - born 6 January 1867 in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  Died 18 April 1872 in the same location.  Buried in the Russellville Cemetery, Boone County, Illinois.
2. Henry Brown - born about 1869 in Boone County, Illinois.  Death date is unknown - he has a headstone in the Russelville Cemetery but no dates are on it.  Unknown if Henry ever married.

Charles' children; Joseph, Miranda, Olive, Susannah, Perry, Lucy,

This blog will be about several of Joseph Charles and Dorothy Abbott's children.  These children have very little known about them.

Several researchers have documented that there was a daughter born to Joseph and Dorothy in 1797 in Maine but a name cannot be found.  The daughter is believed to have died young.

Joseph Charles was born 13 March 1801 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine.  He died 28 January 1828 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York. No known documents exist for Joseph.  It is believed the Joseph married a Mary Gordon. There is a photo (below) that is believed to be his headstone.  This picture was found on the findagrave website.  This is from the Wethersfield Cemetery where Joseph's father, Joseph, is also buried.

Miranda Charles can actually be found in several census's living with other family members.  She is found in the 1850 Federal Census living with her sister Dorothy Langdon in Wethersfield, New York; in the 1860, 1870 and 1880 Federal Census living with her sister Sarah Conkey in Ronald, Ionia County, Michigan; in the 1900 Federal Census living with her nephew, Eli Conkey (son of Sarah).  Miranda dies at the age of 90 in Ionia County, Michigan.  This death certificate (below) shows the maiden name of her mother, Dorothy, when other researchers have noted as being different than shown on this document.  It shows that she died of old age with complications of heart disease.

Perry Charles was born 24 December 1811 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine.  He cannot be found in any records, nothing else is  known about Perry.

Olive Charles was born about 1814 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  She cannot be found in any records, nothing else is known about Olive.

Susannah Charles was born about 1816 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  It is believed she married Jacob Herrick around 1848 in New York.  Susannah and Jacob are found in the 1850 Federal Census living in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  This is the only record found for Susannah.

Lucy Charles was born 7 February 1820 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  She can found in the 1850 Federal Census living with her sister, Susannah Herrick, in Wethersfield.  No other records or information is known for Lucy.

Cecil M Brown

Cecil M Brown is the eldest daughter of Odin Brown and Sally Stevens.  She is my wife's 2nd Great Grand Aunt. Cecil was born in 1839 in state of New York.  By 1840 the family is living in Turnbull, OH where Cecil is listed as the female under the age of 5 in the 1840 Federal Census.

The 1850 Federal Census finds the family living in Bonus, Boone County, Illinois.  The family is farming and own their land valued at $400.  Cecil is 11 years old and it is noted that she is attending school.

Ten years later in the 1860 Federal Census Cecil is still attending school at the age of 21.  I would assume it to be secondary education of some kind, or possibly she is teaching?  She is still residing with her parents who are still farming.  The family land is now valued at $3500 and personal belongings are valued at $600.  The are now residing in Boone Township, Boone County, Illinois.  There is a marriage record that can be found at http://www.ilsos.gov/isavital/marriagesrch.jsp that shows that Cecil married Tobias Stansbury Stevenson on 31 March, 1855, in Boone County.  Where was Tobias in 1860?  The other odd thing, as can be noted in the next Federal Census of 1870, is that there were two daughters born to Tobias and Cecil around 1857 and 1859 (Ida and Francis).  If Cecil was living with her parents - where were her daughters?  It's possible that Cecil's family listed her even though she was not living there.  In this census she is only noted as C M Brown - it's possible that this may be the first wife of her brother, Hubbel, as he was still living at home also.  I am unable to find Tobias or either daughter in the 1860 Federal Census anywhere.

The 1870 Federal Census finds Cecil living with her husband, Tobias, and three children; Ida age 13, Francis age 11, and Nellie age 4.  They are residing in Bonus, Boone County, Illinois.  The family is farming and own their land valued at $2500.  They have personal belongings valued at $1300.  The two eldest daughters are attending school.  This is the last record found for Cecil.

Cecil passes away 17 November 1877.  She is buried in the East Bonus Cemetery in Bonus, Boone County, Illinois.

Cecil M Brown and Tobias Stansbury Stevenson had the following children:

1. Ida E Stevenson - born about 1857 in Illinois.  Died 8 June 1883 in Bonus, Boone County, Illinois.  Never married.
2. Francis Stevenson - born about 1859 in Illinois.  Died 18 April 1880 in Bonus, Boone County, Illinois.  Never married.
3. Nellie Irene Stevenson - born 16 July 1865 in Illinois. Died 4 April 1940 in Belvidere, Boone County, Illinois.  Married William Franklin.
4. Blanche Stevenson - born March 1871 in Illinois.  Death unknown.  Married James Galus.

Elizabeth Walker Charles

Elizabeth Walker Charles was born 21 February 1799 in Fryeburg, Maine or Carroll, New Hampshire.  The locations are close and other researchers have noted both as the birth location of Elizabeth.  She is the eldest daughter of Joseph Charles and Dorthea Abbott.

Elizabeth married Daniel Curtis on 27 December 1818 in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.  This marriage date can be found on the War of 1812 Pension Application that Elizabeth filed after the death of Daniel.  A copy is pasted here.  This document also notes the company Daniel fought with, his service dates, as well has his death date.

The first record found for Elizabeth is the 1850 Federal Census.  Elizabeth is residing in Java, Wyoming County, New York.  There are five other Curtis' living in the household other than Elizabeth and Daniel, all presumably children.  They are Oliver, Sarah, Emily, James and Annette.  Daniel's profession is listed as farmer.  It's noted that Elizabeth's birth state is listed as Maine.

The next Federal Census of 1860 finds the family living in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  Daniel is still farming.  His eldest son, Oliver, is living in the household with his wife Huldah. The value of real estate is noted as $4200 and personal belongings are valued at $1250 - these values are next to Oliver's name, not Daniel.  It appears that Oliver and Huldah also have two children living in the household, Effa and Estella.

Elizabeth's husband, Daniel, passes away in December of 1865.  He is buried in the Wethersfield Cemetery.  In the next Federal Census of 1870 Elizabeth is living with her son, James, and his wife and children.  James' profession is listed as a cheese maker.  The family is still residing in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  This is the last known record for Elizabeth.  She passes away 9 December 1879 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  She is buried in the Wethersfield Cemetery.  Photo of headstone below.

Elizabeth Walker Charles and Daniel Curtis had the following children:

1. Oliver Perry Curtis - born 17 Aug 1819 in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.  Dies 1872 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  Married Huldah Saxton.
2. Sarah Curtis - born about 1824 in New York.  Death unknown.
3. Emily Curtis - born 2 October 1828 in New York.  Dies 1 November 1916 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  Marries Enoch Ikeler.
4. James Curtis - born about 1832 in New York.  Death unknown. Married Lanny (surname unknown).
5. Annette Curtis - born 21 April 1834 in Java, Wyoming County, New York.  Died 26 April 1891 in Seward, Winnebago County, Illinois. Married Hervey Seymour Cleveland.

Hubbell Dilson Brown

Hubbell Dilson Brown is the 2nd Great Grand Uncle to my wife.

Hubbell was born in August of 1837 in the State of New York.  Hubbell is the eldest son of Odin Brown and Sally Stevens (possibly Leonard).

The first record found for Hubbell is the 1840 Federal Census.  This census finds the head of household, Odin Brown, listed with one male under the age of 5 - Hubbell.  The family resided in Warren, Trumbull County, Ohio.  The first record listing Hubbell by name is the 1850 Federal Census.  Hubbell is now 13 years old and is living with his family in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  His father's profession is farming.

Hubbell is again found in Boone, Boone County, Illinois in the 1860 Federal Census.  Hubbell marries Mary Louisa Jackson on 19 February 1864 in Boone County.  Hubbell then joins the Civil War as a 1st Sgt in Company B of the 153 IL US INF on 13 February 1865.  Hubbell is described as 27 years old, 5'8", black hair, hazel eyes and a fair complexion.  He is listed as a farmer and a native of New York.  Hubbell mustered out only a few months later on 15 July 1865 in Cairo, IL.  Both the marriage record and Hubbell's service record can be found on the website www.cyberdriverillinois.com.

The 1870 Federal Census finds Hubbell with his wife, Louisa, and two young daughters, Ella and May, still residing in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  Hubbell is a farmer with his property valued at $3000 and his personal property valued at $800.  Louisa's grandparents, Sally and Chris Gardner, are also residing with the Brown's.

The family still resides in Boone, Boone County, Illinois during the next Federal Census of 1880.  Four more children are added to the Brown brood, but one child, May Brown, is missing, presumably passed away prior to 1880.  Louisa's grandmother, Sally, is still residing with them.  Hubbell's profession is listed as blacksmith and farmer.

Sometime before 1888 the Brown family moves to Wyoming.  We know this because his daughter, Clare, is born in January of 1888 in Wyoming.  The family is next found in the 1900 Federal Census living in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming.  This census notes that Hubbell and Mary Louisa have been married for 36 years.  It notes that Mary Louisa is the mother of ten children, 5 of which are still living.

The next record is the 1910 Federal Census and the family is still residing in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming. The last record for Hubbell is his death record.  Hubbell passes away 27 September 1914 in Sundance.  He buried in the Mount Moriah Cemetery.

Hubbell Dilson Brown and Mary Louisa Jackson had the following children:

1. Ella Brown - born about 1866 in Illinois, death unknown.
2. May Brown - born about 1870 in Boone County, Illinois.  Death was before 1880.
3. Lena Hadaway Brown - born February 1871 in Boone County, Illinois.  Died after 1930.  Married Edgar Sanford.
4. Minnie E Brown - born February 1874 in Boone County, Illinois.  Died 9 September 1934 in Lawrence, South Dakota.  Married David Watson.
5. Mary Brown - born about 1877 in Boone County, Illinois.  Death unknown.
6. Odin Brown - born about 1879 in Boone County, Illinois.  Died 1890 in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming.
7. Alvah F Brown - born about 1885.  Died 1890 in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming.
8. Clara M Brown - born January 1888 in Wyoming.  Death unknown.  Married Thomas Joy.
9. Elsie Brown - born August 1890 in Wyoming. Death unknown.

Timothy Walker Charles

Timothy Walker Charles is my 4th Great Grand Uncle.  Timothy was born in 1796 either in Carroll County, New Hampshire or Oxford County, Maine.  The distance between the locations is very small but I have seen accounts by other researchers listing both.  He is the eldest son of Joseph Charles and Dorothy Abbott.

Timothy is mentioned in the book, "History of Wyoming County, NY".  In this book it mention that Timothy is one of the first settlers in the town of Wethersfield, New York.  He is said to have arrived in Wethersfield in the year 1815 coming from the state of Maine. In 1815 the town would have been known as Orangeville as Wethersfield came into existence in 1823 when it split from Orangeville. Other Charles' mentioned as moving here at or around the same time is his father, Joseph, and a cousin, Samuel.  Since the first known child of Timothy isn't born until 1823 we can assume that he was most likely single at the time of his arrival.

At some point Timothy marries Miranda Langdon.  Miranda is believed to be the daughter of Paul Langdon and Mary Kimball.  Timothy isn't the only person in his family to marry into the Langdon household.  His brother, Nehemiah, and his sister, Dorothy, do as well.

I can't seem to locate Timothy in the 1820 Federal Census in Orangeville, New York, even though I can find his father Joseph, and his father-in-law, Paul Langdon, living next door to each other there.  By 1823 Timothy and his wife, Miranda have their first born child, Caroline Charles.  By 1830 we find the first record for Timothy.  He is listed as head of household in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.  His household consists of two sons under the age of 5, two daughters between the age of 5 and 9, and his wife.

The Charles' family add another son to their family in 1831.  Unfortunately Miranda passes away in 1833 in Wethersfield, New York.  We find the family intact, minus Miranda , in the 1840 Census, still living in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.

We find Timothy, a widower, in the 1850 Federal Census.  He is still living in Wethersfield, now Wyoming County, New York.  Three of his children are living with him, Caroline, Homer and Joseph.  His profession is listed as a farmer and the value of his real estate is $1400.

Timothy is still in Wethersfield in the 1860 Federal Census.  Caroline is still unmarried and living with him.  His son, Joseph, is now married with two children and living in Timothy's household.  No profession is listed for Timothy but Joseph is farming.  The value of real estate is also listed next to Joseph, $1250.

The last record found for Timothy is the 1870 Federal Census, where he is still living in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  The single Caroline is still residing here.  Joseph is still running the farm but has remarried after his first wife passed away.  The two grandchildren still reside here as well.

Timothy can be found in the U.S. Federal Census Mortality Schedule, 1850-1885.  He dies in April of 1880 in Eldred, McKean County, Pennsylvania.  Timothy had moved to McKean County with his son, Joseph, who appears to have been supporting his father for the last few decades.  The cause of death was listed as old age.

Timothy Walker Charles and Miranda Langdon had the following children:

1. Caroline Charles - born about 1823 in Genesee County, New York.  Dies about 1874 in Wyoming County, New York.
2. Unknown daughter (possibly Mary Ann) - born about 1824 in Genesee County, New York.
3. Homer Charles - born about 1825 in Genesee County, New York. Dies about 1880 in Wyoming County, New York.  Marries Levana Witherell.
4. Joseph Charles - born July 1828 in Genesee County, New York.  Dies 1904 in Eldred, McKean County, Pennsylvania.  Marries (1st) Jerusha unknown.  Marries (2nd) Caroline Blakeley.
5. Henry Charles - born 6 January 1831 in Genesee County, New York. Dies 1815 in Wyoming County, New York.  Marries Laurana Witherell.

Odin Brown

Odin Brown is the 3rd Great Grandfather of my wife.

Odin's parents are believed to be Seabury Brown and Polly Fox, but I have not been able to find any paper proof of this lineage.

Odin was born in New York state on 7 March 1816.  At some point before 1840 Odin marries a Sally Stevens.  Other researchers have listed Sally's maiden name as Leonard.  I have only found one record that list's the surname of Sally and that is the death certificate of the youngest son, Perry Brown, and it lists her maiden name as Stevens.  Looking at old census records for the assumed father of Odin, Seabury, I can find a family with the surname Leonard in close proximity, so it is possible for Leonard to be Sally's surname.

There is a record for an Odin Brown for the 1840 Federal Census.  This Odin is found in Warren, Trumbull County, Ohio.  This family consists of one male under the age of 5, one male age 20 to 29 (Odin), one female under the age of 5, and one female age 20 to 29.

The next record found for Odin finds him in Bonus, Boone County, Illinois.  This record indicates his two oldest children, ages 13 and 11, were born in the state of New York.  His next oldest child, Morton, age 8, was born in Michigan.  From this we know that the Brown family lived for a time in the state of Michigan, around the year 1842.  The next two children, Caroline, age 6 and Frederick, age 4, were born back in the state of New York.  The youngest two children, Sophia, age 2, and Ellen, age 6 months, were born in Illinois.  This was a very busy decade for the Brown family as it would have found them in New York, Ohio, Michigan, back to New York, and then finally in Illinois.  In 1850 Odin is a farmer and a landowner.  The value of his land is listed at $400.

The Federal Census of 1860 finds the family living in Boone, Boone County, Illinois.  The family is still intact.  The value of Odin's property has increased to $3500 and his personal belongings are valued at $600.  Odin is still farming.  This coming decade of the 1860's will be a hard one on the Brown family.

Between the years of 1860 and 1870 the Brown family changes drastically.  Several children die including Ellen, Alvah, George, and Rosalinda.  It is apparent that a sickness of some kinds devastated the family.  Odin's wife, Sally, also passes away.  In 1864 Odin joins the Civil War as a hospital steward.  See picture below.

Odin serves for 100 days.  In 1869 Odin remarries to Helen (Nellie) Chamberlain.

Odin is living in Boone, Boone County, Illinois in the 1870 Federal Census.  He only has two sons living with him at this time with his 2nd wife, Helen.  His profession is now listed as a shoemaker.  His real estate is valued at $1000 and personal property is valued at $3000.

Odin is next found in the 1880 Federal Census living in Sterling, Johnson County, Nebraska.  His 2nd wife Helen and two new children are living with him.  Both children were born in Nebraska, the eldest being 3 years old, so the family has been in Nebraska for at least 3 years.  Also living with them is Helen's brother, Novis Chamberlain.  Odin's profession is farming.

The next census for Odin is the 1885 Nebraska State Census.  They are still residing in Sterling, Johnson County, Nebraska and Odin is still farming.

Odin passes away around the year 1899 in Sterling, Johnson County, Illinois.  He appears to be buried in the Sterling Cemetery.  I say that because there is also an entry for Odin in a Boone County, Illinois cemetery.

Here is the headstone picture from the Sterling Cemetery (a headstone cannot be found in Boone County, even though he is listed there by someone on FindAGrave):

Odin Brown and Sally Stevens (possibly Leonard) had the following children:

1. Hubbel Dilson Brown - born in August of 1837 in New York, death unknown.  Marries Mary Louisa Jackson.
2. Cecil M Brown (female) - born about 1839 in New York, death unknown.  Marries Tobias Stevenson.
3. Morton Brown - born 8 February 1842 in Michigan, dies 5 March 1909 in Russellville, Boone County, Illinois.  Marries Helen Smith.
4. Caroline Brown - born about 1844 in New York, death unknown. Marriage unknown.
5. Frederick Brown - born about 1846 in New York, death unknown.  Marriage unknown.
6. Sophia Brown - born 29 March 1848 in Illinois, dies 22 June 1901 in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming.  Marries (1st) Silas Durkee, (2nd) Albert Frederick Hoge.
7. Ellen Brown - born about 1850 in Illinois, death unknown. Marriage unknown.
8. Alvah Brown - born about 1852 in Illinois, dies 22 October 1860 in Russellville, Boone County, Illinois.
9. Rosalinda Brown - born about 1854 in Illinois, dies 2 November 1861 in Russellville, Boone County, Illinois.
10. Seabury Strong Brown - born 3 October 1857 in Illinois, dies 12 April 1932 in Pendleton, Umatilla County, Oregon.  Marries Stella Richardson.
11. Perry Fox Brown - born October 1861 in Boone County, Illinois, dies 19 April 1936 in Meyers Falls, Stevens County, Washington.  Marries Mary Viola Richardson.
12. George Brown - born about 1864 in Boone County, Illinois and dies about 1865 in Boone County, Illinois.

Odin Brown and Helen Chamberlain had the following children:
1. Daisy Brown - born 2 August 1873 in Capron, Boone County, Illinois, dies 28 March 1875 in Sterling, Johnson County, Nebraska.
2. Harry Burton Brown - born 21 August 1875 in Nebraska. Died 23 Novemer 1955 in Wyoming. Marries (1st) Myrtle Conn.  Marries (2nd) Minnie Rose (last name unknown).
3. Arthur Chamberlain Brown - born 21 April 1877 in Nebraska, death unknown. Marries Lucy Pisel.
4. Barton Benjamin Brown - born 28 June 1882 in Johnson County, Nebraska, death unknown.  Marries Pearl Simmons.

Joseph Charles

Joseph Charles is my 5th Great Grandfather.  He believed to be the 2nd eldest son of Abner Charles and Sarah Walker.

Joseph is believed to have been born on 7 April 1773 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine.  Joseph's father, Abner Charles and Abner's brother, John Charles, are mentioned in the Town History of Fryeburg, Maine as some of the original settlers.  There were some accounts that list the place of birth of Joseph as Concord, New Hampshire.  Part of the reason for that could be that the original plot of land for Fryeburg was mistakenly in New Hampshire.  Once that was discovered the lines for the town were redrawn.

There are three census records that are believed to belong to Joseph Charles.  These census records find Joseph and family all in the state of New York.  The first census record, the Federal Census of 1820, finds the family in Orangeville, Genesse County, New York.

In Orangeville the Charles' household consisted of 1 male age 16 to 18, 3 males 16 to 25, 1 male 45 and older, 4 females under the age of 10, 1 female age 26 to 44,  and 1 female age 45 and older.  The 3 males age 16 to 25 were Timothy, Joseph and Nehemiah - with Nehemiah also being the male listed as age 16 to 18.  Joseph senior would be the male age 45 and older.  The four females under the age of 10 were Lucy, Susannah, Olive and Miranda.  The female age 26 to 44 would be Joseph's wife, Dorothy Abbott.  It is hard to assume who the female over the age of 45 is.  It could be Joseph's mother - as her death date is not known.  She would have been in her 70's.  Dorothy's mother had already passed away.  It could also have been a servant helping the large family.  There are four children unaccounted for in this census.  They are Elizabeth Charles, age 21, Sarah Charles, who would have been 15 years old, Dorothy Charles, age 13 and Perry Charles, age 9.  Elizabeth first child was born in 1819 so she was most likely living with her husband.  I'm not sure why Sarah and Dorothy would not be listed.  I've never found any records for Perry Charles so I could assume that he died young before the census was taken in 1820.

The second census for the Charles' family is the 1830 Federal Census taken in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.  The town of Wethersfield was made from part of the town of Orangeville so the Charles family may not have moved since the 1820 Census.

In 1830 the family consisted of 1 male age 5 to 9, 1 male age 50 to 59, 2 females age 10 to 14, 1 female age 15 to 19, 1 female age 20 to 29, 1 female age 50 to 59. The male age 5 to 9 is John Joseph Charles. The male age 50 to 59 is Joseph Charles senior.  The two females age 10 to 14 are Lucy and Susannah and the female age 15 to 19 is Olive Charles.  The female age 20 to 29 could be either daughter Miranda or Dorothy.   The female age 50 to 59 would be Dorothy Charles, wife of Joseph.

The last census for Joseph Charles is the 1840 Federal Census taken in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.

The Charles' family in 1840 consisted of 1 male age 10 to 14, 1 male age 15 to 19, 1 male age 60 to 69, 2 females age 20 to 29, 1 female age 60 to 69. It's hard to determine who the youngest male is in this household, unless it is an unknown child.  The other male age 15 to 19 is John Joseph Charles.  Joseph Charles would be the male age 60 to 69.  The two females age 20 to 29 could still be daughters, possibly Lucy, Susannah, or Olive.  The female age 60 to 69 would be Dorothy Charles.

It should be noted that Wethersfield, New York is no longer in Genesee County.  The County lines were redrawn in 1841 and Wethersfield is now in Wyoming County, New York.

Joseph Charles died in February of 1846 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  He is buried in the Wethersfield Cemetery.

The children of Joseph Charles and Dorothy Abbott are:

1. Timothy Walker Charles - born 16 September 1796 in Chatham, Carroll County, New Hampshire, died April 1880 in McKean, Erie County, Pennsylvania.  Married Miranda Langdon.

2. Elizabeth Walker Charles - born 21 February 1799 in Chatham, Carroll County, New Hampshire, died 9 December 1879 in Wethersfield, Wyoming County, New York.  Married Daniel Curtis.

3. Joseph Charles - born 13 March 1801 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine, died 28 January 1828 in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York.  Married Mary Gordon.

4. Nehemiah Charles - born 18 April 1803 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine, died 23 September 1888 in North Plains, Ionia County, Michigan.  Married Anna Mariah Langdon.

5. Sarah Walker Charles - born 13 April 1805 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine, died 22 January 1890 in Palo, Ronald Township, Ionia County, Michigan.  Married Chauncey Conkey.

6. Dorothy Charles - born 17 July 1807 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine, died 31 August 1888 in Richland, Kalamazoo County, Michigan.  Married Benjamin Franklin Langdon.

7. Miranda Charles - born 5 February 1810 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine, died 12 November 1901 in Ionia County, Michigan.  Never married.

8. Perry Charles - born 24 December 1811 in Fryeburg, Oxford County, Maine, death unknown but most likely before 1820.

9. Olive Charles - born about 1814 in Orangeville, Genesee County, New York.  Death unknown.  Marriage unknown.

10. Susannah Charles - born about 1816 in Orangeville, Genesee County, New York.  Death unknown.  Married Jacob Herrick.

Orangeville, Genesee County, New York. Death unknown.  Marriage unknown.

12.  John Joseph Charles - born 7 August 1823 in Wethersfield, Genesee County, New York, died 23 September in Montcalm County, Michigan.  Married Mariah - surname unknown.

Albert Charles Balderston

Albert Charles Balderston is the 2nd Great Grand Uncle of my wife, the brother of her 2nd Great Grandfather, Joseph Newton Balderston.  Albert is the youngest son of Stephen B Balderston and his second wife, Mary Brenn.

Albert was born in Avon Township, Fulton County, Illinois on 9 January 1877.  Not long after Albert's birth the family moved to Greenbush Township, Warren County, Illinois.  It is here where we find the family in the 1880 Federal Census.  Albert's father is listed as a carpenter.

Albert's father passes away in 1885 and then his mother in 1900.  Albert is found in the 1900 Federal Census still living in Greenbush Township, Warren County, Illinois - where he was found in the 1880 census.  He is working as a hired man on a farm.  He is living with Edmund Simmons and family.  Not too far from the Simmons farm is another household that holds the future wife of Albert, Alma Loretta Holeman.  Alma and Albert were married sometime before the birth of their first child, Thelma Balderston, in November of 1905.

By the 1910 Federal Census the new family has moved to West Blue, Adams County, Nebraska.  From this record we can determine that Albert is in his first marriage.  Alma and Albert are the parents of 4 children, and all are still living at the time of the census.  Albert is renting his home and is working as a farmer.  Albert is living in Hastings, Adams County, Nebraska during the 1918 WWI draft.  From this record we can see that Albert is working for himself as a farmer.  This record  indicates that Albert is tall and slender, has blue eyes and black hair, and has no physical disqualifications for the draft.  It's interesting to note that this record states his last name with no 't' in Balderston, but the signature does have the 't' in it.  A copy of this record is below.

The family is still in West Blue, Adams County, Nebraska during the 1920 Federal Census.  There is nothing additional to learn from this record other than some additional children.  Albert is still renting his farm.

By 1930 Albert is now the owner of a farm.  This record finds the family in Rockton, Furnas County, Nebraska.  This census states that his farm has livestock as well as grain.

Albert Charles Balderston dies in McCook, Red Willow County, Nebraska on 6 January 1955, just a few days before his 78th birthday.

Albert Balderston and Alma Holeman had the following children:

1. Thelma Maree Balderston - born 3  November 1905 in Nebraska.  Died 11 January 1960 in Boise, Ada County, Idaho.  Married Gerald Neil Ankenman.
2. Fleeta Alberta Balderston - born 21 July 1907 in Nebraska.  Died 17 August 1994 in Gooding, Gooding County, Idaho.  Married Carl Raymond Michals.
3. Jasper Raymond Balderston - born 8 January 1909 in Nebraska.  Died 8 May 1993 in Beaver City, Furnas County, Nebraska.  Married Evelyn Torney.
4. Veda Olga Balderston - born 30 January 1910 in Nebraska.  Died 21 June 1875 in Albany, Linn County, Oregon.  Married Ivan Will Torney.
5. Bernice Viola Balderston - born 24 January 1912 in Nebraska.  Died 26 February 1989 in Arapahoe, Furnas County, Nebraska. Married Warren Ayres.
6. Lester Melvin Balderston - born 21 May 1914 in Nebraska.  Died 19 June 1914.
7. Neva Muriel Balderston - born 2 June 1915 in Hastings, Adams County, Nebraska.  Died 12 December 2001 in Aurora, Adams County, Colorado.  Married Paul DeBacca.
8. Elvin Eugene Balderston - born 13 December 1921 in Nebraska.  Died 21 June 2000 in Wilsonville, Furnas County, Nebraska.  Married Ivalee Grace Minshall.

William Walker Mann

William Walker Mann is my 3rd Great Grand Uncle, the brother of my 3rd Great Grandmother, Louisa Marie Mann.

William was born 1 May 1847 most likely in Madison County, Alabama.  He is the youngest son of William Mann and Lucinda McKinney.  The first record for William would be the 1850 Federal Census.  The family is found living in District 35 in Madison County, Alabama.  He father, William, is farming.  The value of real estate is $200 leading to the assumption that his father was a land owner.

The 1860 Federal Census finds the family in the South Eastern Division, Madison County, Alabama.  The father is still farming and the value of real estate is now $300.

The Civil War started in 1861.  The death information for William Walker Mann found on the findagrave website states that he served in 37th Infantry for Northern Alabama.  I haven't been able to find any proof of this.  I have sent a message to the person who created the entry on the findagrave site.

The next record found is from the Madison County, Alabama, holdings records found on their website.  They can be found here.  In the Marriage Records Indices there is a record for a William W Mann marrying a Julia E Steward on 13 October 1871 in Madison County.

The next census record is the 1880 (notice I am missing the 1870 Federal Census record - unable to locate at this time) Federal Census record.  This record shows William with his wife and 3 children.  He is farming but it notes that he was unemployed for 8 months during the year preceding the census.  This census also notes that his eldest child, age 4, was born in Mississippi.  So - sometime around the year 1876 the family was living in Mississippi, but had moved back to Alabama by the birth of his next child around the year 1878.

The next record finds the family has moved. This is the 1900 Federal Census record. They are now living in Gibson County, Tennessee.  There are five children now living at home.  This census notes that Julia is the mother of seven children, 5 of whom are still living.  So all children are accounted for in the 1900 census.  It is unknown what the names of the children who have perished before 1900 were.  William is still farming.

Gibson County, Tennessee is still where the family resides in the 1910 Federal Census.  This record corroborates that William is a Civil War Confederate Army veteran.  He is still farming, but is noted as owning his farm free and clear.  He has no mortgage on his home.  This census also notes that Julia is the mother of 7 children with 4 whom are still living.  So one of the children listed in the 1900 census has died before 1910.

Listed below is the death certificate for William Walker Mann.  This record actually helps clarify an earlier assumption.  This is the only paper proof that I can find that lists his mother's maiden name of McKinney.  I have always assumed that Lucinda was indeed Lucinda McKinney but this is the only paper proof that I am aware of.  The cause of death is listed as paralysis of the left side.

William Walker Mann and Julia Elizabeth Stewart had the following children:

1. Thomas M Mann - born October 1876 in Mississippi.  Death unknown.  Marriage Unknown.

2. Eliza G Mann - born May 1878 in Alabama.  Death unknown.  Marriage Unknown.

3. John C Mann - born April 1880 in Madison County, Alabama.  Death unknown.  Married Kathy, last name unknown.

4. Audley Walker Mann - born 7 August 1882 in Alabama.  Died 10 October 1955 in Shelby, Tennessee.  Married Virginia Lockhart.

5. Mary Tilda Mann - born 5 June 1885 in Alabama.  Died 16 January 1943 in Paris, Henry County, Tennessee.  Married Needham Whitley.

Stamp Photo Album - unknown

The following group of photo's are believed to have belonged to Lillian Isabell Briscoe.  Lillian is my wife's Great Grandmother.  I will complete a blog on the Briscoe line later.  I wanted to post this album first.

I would assume most of the individuals in this album were family or close friends of Lillian.  I wish I knew more.

Lillian was born in Cumberland, Cass County, Iowa in the year 1900.  She also lived in Edna, Cass County, Iowa.  After 1910 she spent the rest of her life in Magee or Yuma, Yuma County, Colorado.  So if an of these people are acquaintances, they would most likely be from that area as well.

Lillian married Delbert Balderston in 1920 in Yuma, Yuma County, Colorado.  So it's possible that some of these pictures may be on the Balderston family line also.

If you recognize any of these individuals please contact me!

Jenia Elen, John, Charles Albert, Frank and Rose Bell Balderston

These five children of Stephen B Balderston and Mary Brenn don't have much history to tell, so I will lump them all into one post.

Both John and Jenia Elen are found in the 1870 U.S. Federal Mortality Schedule for Magnolia, Putnam County, Illinois.  Both young children died of croup.  Jenia would have been around 7 years old and John around 3 years old.  No other records are known to exist for these two children.

Charles Albert Balderston, born 24 August 1872 in Magnolia, Putnam County, Illinois can only be found in one known census record.  That record is the 1880 Federal Census taken in Greenbush Township, Warren County, Illinois.  He is about 8 years old.  In the notes of Adah Balderston, niece of Charles, it states that he was a baseball player and that he disappeared, no one knows what happened to Charles.

Frank, also found in the 1880 census record listed above, was born 23 September 1874 in Avon Township, Fulton County, Illinois.  Frank can also be found in the 1900 Federal Census taken in Union Township, Fulton County, Illinois.  Frank is a servant in the household of William Burnett, his profession is listed as farm laborer.  Frank can be found in the 1917/1918 WWI draft records living in Warren County, Illinois. He notes his sister Anna Jennings as nearest living relative.  It's interesting to note that Frank spelled his last name as Balderson - without the T? Maybe he didn't write it down, possibly someone else filled out the card for him? He is noted as having blue eyes, brown hair and having a medium height and build. Frank is still found living in Union Township in the 1930 Federal Census, this census notes that Frank is single, owns his home (value $400) and is still a farm laborer.  The death record for Frank dated 20 August 1936 verifies his birth date and parentage. It notes that he was a farm laborer and died single, never marrying.  No other records are known to exist for Frank.  I have not been able to find Frank in the 1910 and 1920 Federal Census.

Rose Bell was also found in the 1880 census record listed above.  She was born 9 January 1880 in Avon Township, Fulton County, Illinois.  She is believed to have died around 1948. Update: Rose Bell Balderston married William Naughton.  She was listed on the headstone of her parents as Rose B Naughton.  Rose and husband William are found in one census, the 1930 Federal Census living in Omaha, Nebraska.  No other records are found for Rose.

Mary E Mann

Mary E Mann is my 3rd Great Grand Aunt.

Mary is the daughter of William Mann and Lucinda McKinney.

Mary was born in July 1845 in Alabama.  The first record we find for Mary is the 1850 Federal Census where she is living with her family in Madison County, Alabama - so we can assume she was most likely born in Madison County.  They are living in District 35, her father is listed as a farmer.

They are still living in Madison County in the 1860 Federal Census, this time it is listed as the South Eastern Division.  Her father is still farming.

In the 1870 Federal Census Mary is still living with her mother, Lucinda.  Her father has passed away by this time.  Her brother, Thomas, is listed as head of household, yet the value of property is listed next to Lucinda.  So we can assume they are in Lucinda's home, not Thomas's.  Thomas is farming.  Mary is listed as without occupation.  She marries later this year to Isaac Rice.  Her and Isaac marry 8 August 1870 in Madison County, Alabama.

Mary and Isaac are still living in Madison County, Alabama in the 1880 Federal Census.  They have four children living at home.  Isaac is listed as a farmer.  The census notes that Isaac has been unemployed for 4 months during the census year.

The next census is the 1900 Federal Census.  This census notes that Mary is the mother of eight children but only four are living.  There are 3 children living at home.  Next door is her old child, Lillian Lucinda "Lou" Mann, married to George White.  Isaac is still farming, they are now homeowners in 1900.

Mary dies sometime before 1910, presumably in Madison County.  Isaac remarries in 1910 to Lovina Caroline "Callie" Blackburn.  Callie's maiden name is Cobb, this is her second marriage also. It is not known where Mary is buried.

Mary and Issac had the following children:

1. Lillian Lucinda "Lou" Rice - born in June 1871 in Madison County, Alabama.  Dies 24 May 1943 in Decatur, Morgan County, Alabama.  Marries George White.
2. James H Rice - born about 1875 in Madison County, Alabama.  Dies before 1900.  Marriage unknown.
3. William Turner Rice - born 26 November 1876 in Madison County, Alabama. Dies 21 Dec 1958 in rural Madison County, Alabama. Married Eliza Jane Hornbuckle.
4. Joseph Lee Rice - born February 1878 in Madison County, Alabama.  Death unknown.  Marries Ethel, maiden known unknown.
5. John Crawford Rice - born 26 December 1884 in Madison County, Alabama.  Death unknown. Marries Mamie, maiden name unknown.

We do know that Mary had at least 3 more children - all who died before 1900.