I've just spent my break looking and reading your emails - you were definitely on the right trail. I can't begin to thank you enough for your diligence and research on James M Shay.
*******************************
This past year has really taught me a lot about researching genealogy. Using family oral history as well as logic and geography really made fleshing out the details of James Monroe Shay's life fun.
Several times I got thrown down the wrong path trying to connect James with the right family. There were 3 other James Shays born between 1835-1838 that I suspected could be him. The James Shay from Ohio first made sense when I saw that the 1870 & 1880 census for his daughters listed their father as born in Ohio. I also looked at the James Shay from Western PA. Also the James Shay from Newburgh, NY also could fit.
But there were always questions that lingered for me about Jane Shay's line. My great grandfather claimed to have native american in his background, he said he had ancestors that went out west to California and he said that he had 3 family members who fought in the Civil War. One of these men was shot in the face. Also I was puzzeled why Jane Shay left Scott Co., MO after 1880 to arrive in Potter Co., PA by 1885. I always thought that there must have been a connection.
You helped me put everything together when you discovered Nancy Shay's marriage record to Thomas Owens and you ordered James Shay's pension records. The pension records gave us most of our info about James. When I looked into all the Shays near Potter County in the 1800's and in Allegany & Livingston County...Silas Shay stood out and was hard to connect. After you received Silas Shay's pension records...it seemed very probable that Silas and James were brothers linking them as sons of Peter Shay Jr. I am happy that JK has been able to confirm that James Monroe Shay was a son of Peter.
I have fleshed out most of the oral history my great grandfather George Heath gave. I have a strong feeling that Stavina, mother of James is probably the Native American since she came from out West in the 1820's. I hope J can confirm this or has something about this subject. We are almost there.
Friday, July 10, 2009
July 8, 2008 - Trappers in MO
I think I will try to go thru my emails - and see if I can locate the information we came across about the company who went to CA and hired men.
This may have been around the same time frame. I am so excited. I have to unpack my files tonight and put them back in order. I could hardly sleep last night --
This may have been around the same time frame. I am so excited. I have to unpack my files tonight and put them back in order. I could hardly sleep last night --
July 8, 2008 - 18 Months to Crack the Puzzle - James Monroe Shay Ancestors Confirmed!
She found me on Ancestry with my listing of James Monroe Shay as the son of Peter Shay and sent me an email. I was so happy for her to confirm that Peter Shay did in fact have a son by the name of James Monroe Shay.
I kept reading this email over and I think that if Peter Shay went out West on a scouting expedition then he would have had to of done it in the 1820's. During the 1820's...many trappers and settlers from the United States and Canada began to arrive on the West coast.
(Side note: My Uncle says that George Heath use to say that he had ancestors that went out to California). Since I know that nobody on the Heath side ever went out West, I wonder if George was referencing Peter Shay who would have been his great grandfather.
Also since Nathaniel Shay was born in January 1829 in New York, Peter Shay would have to of met his wife out West and married her by 1828. There could not have been too many women out West at that point. Many of the scouting expeditions were made up mainly of men. Also many Indian Tribes were making treaties with Americans or relocating. Given the name and vague information on Peter's wife. I think she is a very good candidate for being out Native American Woman that we are descended from.
I sent JK an email giving her all of James Monroe Shay's information...and setting the record straight that he fought for the Union and not the confederacy during the Civil War.
I asked her if she ever heard anything about a Native American connection. I am waiting on a reply from her. I am looking forward to any info she sends me and will forward it onto you.
I have Peter Shay Sr. Revolutionary War Pension Records. It sounds like Peter Sr, Peter Jr and James Shay all lead interesting lives. Its taken about 18 months to really crack the puzzle.
I kept reading this email over and I think that if Peter Shay went out West on a scouting expedition then he would have had to of done it in the 1820's. During the 1820's...many trappers and settlers from the United States and Canada began to arrive on the West coast.
(Side note: My Uncle says that George Heath use to say that he had ancestors that went out to California). Since I know that nobody on the Heath side ever went out West, I wonder if George was referencing Peter Shay who would have been his great grandfather.
Also since Nathaniel Shay was born in January 1829 in New York, Peter Shay would have to of met his wife out West and married her by 1828. There could not have been too many women out West at that point. Many of the scouting expeditions were made up mainly of men. Also many Indian Tribes were making treaties with Americans or relocating. Given the name and vague information on Peter's wife. I think she is a very good candidate for being out Native American Woman that we are descended from.
I sent JK an email giving her all of James Monroe Shay's information...and setting the record straight that he fought for the Union and not the confederacy during the Civil War.
I asked her if she ever heard anything about a Native American connection. I am waiting on a reply from her. I am looking forward to any info she sends me and will forward it onto you.
I have Peter Shay Sr. Revolutionary War Pension Records. It sounds like Peter Sr, Peter Jr and James Shay all lead interesting lives. Its taken about 18 months to really crack the puzzle.
July 5, 2008 -- Peter Shay Jr -- James Monroe Shay Connection
Thought you might find this very interesting.
James M. Shay is the missing link to Peter Shay's family.
I am exchanging emails back and forth with JK who is a descendant of James' brother Nathaniel.
*******************************************
Thanks so much for your quick response.
I have been researching the Peter Shay family for a number of years, and your info on Ancestry.com was the first mention of James Monroe Shay that I have found anywhere.
I was delighted to find it, and what I found made me quite sure that we were working on the same family.
Let me first of all tell you where I fit into this family. I am descended from Peter Shay’s oldest son Nathaniel who was born 19 Jan 1829. He would be my great-great grandfather. My mother was a Shay and I grew up just a few miles from where the Shay family settled in Ossian, Allegany NY in about 1812. I have a lot of information on Peter Shay, Sr. and his family from his pension record, family sources and local NY sources.
There have been two books on the Peter Shay family privately printed, one in 1983 by Marian Fox Graves and one in 1990 by Marion E. Scott. I have copies of these, and I did some work in census records and Civil War records for the Scott book. Neither of these is perfect, and later research has proved some things in error, but it was helpful to have something to start with.
James Monroe has been the missing son in the Peter Shay, Jr. family. None of the family that remained in western NY apparently knew that he had gone to MO.
The Peter Shay, Jr. family has been difficult to trace for several reasons. Peter, Jr. met his wife somewhere out west when he was on a scouting expedition. They were married there and then returned to Ossian. The spelling of his wife’s name has never been certain and it takes many different forms: Statira, Stalina, Stavina, etc. The last child, Oscar E., was born about 1843 and Peter’s wife died soon after that. Family tradition says that two of Peter’s children were taken to Virginia to live with his oldest sister Anne who married a Shippey. Peter’s father had died in 1840 and then his mother died in 1848, both in Ossian. I have been unable to find any of them in the 1850 census, in any state, except for Nancy, George, and William living in Deerfield, Warren PA with Mary and Ira Boughton. There is an 1855 NY state census listing for Peter in Burns, Allegany Co. with Nancy A. 22, James M. 18, William 16. That is the only time I have found James Monroe in a census. The stories that have come down through the family about James Monroe were all I had to work with. One was that he was taken prisoner in the Civil War and died at Andersonville, and the other was that he had enlisted as a Confederate soldier. Probably the easiest way for me to get information to you is for me to mail my family group sheets for Peter, Sr. and Peter, Jr. I use the PAF program (Personal Ancestral File) for record keeping and notes, and hard copies would preserve my notes and formatting better than e-mail, I think. If you’ll send your address to me, I’ll get these in the mail right away. I think these will answer many of your questions on the family.
An interesting coincidence is that we are driving up to NY for a Shay family reunion on July 18 in Dansville, and I have been updating my Shay files to take to share. Now I have a great discovery to share! Thanks for all the good information on James Monroe . I look forward to working with you to solve some of the other brick walls in this family.
*******************************************************
You have made my day ..... my sister's birthday was the 4th and I just read this email to her ... she said that it was a great birthday present.
How did you ever find this JK?
Was it thru the name that you sent re: Indian connection?
I can't believe this -- Will you go to the Shay Reunion?-- the Seeley Reunion is the same day - but I would love to meet her - not sure though I could do both.
James M. Shay is the missing link to Peter Shay's family.
I am exchanging emails back and forth with JK who is a descendant of James' brother Nathaniel.
*******************************************
Thanks so much for your quick response.
I have been researching the Peter Shay family for a number of years, and your info on Ancestry.com was the first mention of James Monroe Shay that I have found anywhere.
I was delighted to find it, and what I found made me quite sure that we were working on the same family.
Let me first of all tell you where I fit into this family. I am descended from Peter Shay’s oldest son Nathaniel who was born 19 Jan 1829. He would be my great-great grandfather. My mother was a Shay and I grew up just a few miles from where the Shay family settled in Ossian, Allegany NY in about 1812. I have a lot of information on Peter Shay, Sr. and his family from his pension record, family sources and local NY sources.
There have been two books on the Peter Shay family privately printed, one in 1983 by Marian Fox Graves and one in 1990 by Marion E. Scott. I have copies of these, and I did some work in census records and Civil War records for the Scott book. Neither of these is perfect, and later research has proved some things in error, but it was helpful to have something to start with.
James Monroe has been the missing son in the Peter Shay, Jr. family. None of the family that remained in western NY apparently knew that he had gone to MO.
The Peter Shay, Jr. family has been difficult to trace for several reasons. Peter, Jr. met his wife somewhere out west when he was on a scouting expedition. They were married there and then returned to Ossian. The spelling of his wife’s name has never been certain and it takes many different forms: Statira, Stalina, Stavina, etc. The last child, Oscar E., was born about 1843 and Peter’s wife died soon after that. Family tradition says that two of Peter’s children were taken to Virginia to live with his oldest sister Anne who married a Shippey. Peter’s father had died in 1840 and then his mother died in 1848, both in Ossian. I have been unable to find any of them in the 1850 census, in any state, except for Nancy, George, and William living in Deerfield, Warren PA with Mary and Ira Boughton. There is an 1855 NY state census listing for Peter in Burns, Allegany Co. with Nancy A. 22, James M. 18, William 16. That is the only time I have found James Monroe in a census. The stories that have come down through the family about James Monroe were all I had to work with. One was that he was taken prisoner in the Civil War and died at Andersonville, and the other was that he had enlisted as a Confederate soldier. Probably the easiest way for me to get information to you is for me to mail my family group sheets for Peter, Sr. and Peter, Jr. I use the PAF program (Personal Ancestral File) for record keeping and notes, and hard copies would preserve my notes and formatting better than e-mail, I think. If you’ll send your address to me, I’ll get these in the mail right away. I think these will answer many of your questions on the family.
An interesting coincidence is that we are driving up to NY for a Shay family reunion on July 18 in Dansville, and I have been updating my Shay files to take to share. Now I have a great discovery to share! Thanks for all the good information on James Monroe . I look forward to working with you to solve some of the other brick walls in this family.
*******************************************************
You have made my day ..... my sister's birthday was the 4th and I just read this email to her ... she said that it was a great birthday present.
How did you ever find this JK?
Was it thru the name that you sent re: Indian connection?
I can't believe this -- Will you go to the Shay Reunion?-- the Seeley Reunion is the same day - but I would love to meet her - not sure though I could do both.
June 5, 2008 - Possibility of Native American Connection
I think there might be a possibility that our Native American connection to Jane Shay comes in through James Shay's side and not Margaret Mayberry's family. Charlotte Heath Sofa is now recalling her father mentioning that there was Indian blood coming from New York. If this is true I believe it would come in through James Shay's mother's side. Since I am convinced that Silas & James were brothers that also makes him a brother to Nathaniel, Nancy, Mary, George, William & Amanda as well.
Nathaniel Shay's marriage record says he is the son of Peter Shay & Satira Sutton. William Shay's death record lists him as the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton. Census records for their children lists Peter's birthplace as NJ and lists Sophronia/Satira's birthplace as NY. The 1880 record for Nathaniel lists his mother as being born in CT. Not sure if that means the Suttons originally came from CT or not. It could be that the Suttons had Native American blood in them and were assimulated into European American society.
We may want to keep out our eyes and ears open to any postings on genealogy sites that mention northern native american ancestry in any Shay or Sutton lines. I will try and see if any descendants of Nathaniel, Nancy, Mary, George, William or Amanda are posting any family trees or inquiries.
The following info comes from Wikipedia:
The Iroquois Nation covered much of Western and Upstate New York in the 17th and 18th centuries and consisted of five nations: the Mohawk, the Oneida, the Onondaga, the Cayuga, and the Seneca. A sixth tribe, the Tuscarora, joined after the original five nations were formed.
In the late eighteenth century, reformers starting with George Washington and John Knox, supported educating native children, in efforts to "civilize" or otherwise assimilate Native Americans to the larger society (as opposed to relegating them to reservations). The Civilization Fund Act of 1819 promoted this civilization policy by providing funding to societies (mostly religious) who worked on Native American improvement.
***********************************************************
It is good to hear from you. I have tried to trace out the Sophronia Sutton line but didn't have much luck.
Haven't had much time to do genealogy - my daughter bought a house and we are in the process of moving.
My notebooks, photos, and notes take up 4 plastic totes - she said I had to get a life that I had more stuff about dead people than I had for my class notes, clothes, etc.
I will pass this info on to my sister.
Don't forget the Seeley reunion is coming up next month - we would love to have your family including your Uncle Justin as guests. It is Watkins Glen State Park this year.
Nathaniel Shay's marriage record says he is the son of Peter Shay & Satira Sutton. William Shay's death record lists him as the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton. Census records for their children lists Peter's birthplace as NJ and lists Sophronia/Satira's birthplace as NY. The 1880 record for Nathaniel lists his mother as being born in CT. Not sure if that means the Suttons originally came from CT or not. It could be that the Suttons had Native American blood in them and were assimulated into European American society.
We may want to keep out our eyes and ears open to any postings on genealogy sites that mention northern native american ancestry in any Shay or Sutton lines. I will try and see if any descendants of Nathaniel, Nancy, Mary, George, William or Amanda are posting any family trees or inquiries.
The following info comes from Wikipedia:
The Iroquois Nation covered much of Western and Upstate New York in the 17th and 18th centuries and consisted of five nations: the Mohawk, the Oneida, the Onondaga, the Cayuga, and the Seneca. A sixth tribe, the Tuscarora, joined after the original five nations were formed.
In the late eighteenth century, reformers starting with George Washington and John Knox, supported educating native children, in efforts to "civilize" or otherwise assimilate Native Americans to the larger society (as opposed to relegating them to reservations). The Civilization Fund Act of 1819 promoted this civilization policy by providing funding to societies (mostly religious) who worked on Native American improvement.
***********************************************************
It is good to hear from you. I have tried to trace out the Sophronia Sutton line but didn't have much luck.
Haven't had much time to do genealogy - my daughter bought a house and we are in the process of moving.
My notebooks, photos, and notes take up 4 plastic totes - she said I had to get a life that I had more stuff about dead people than I had for my class notes, clothes, etc.
I will pass this info on to my sister.
Don't forget the Seeley reunion is coming up next month - we would love to have your family including your Uncle Justin as guests. It is Watkins Glen State Park this year.
May 7, 2008 - William Heath with young sons George & Will Jr.
Toni has boxes full of ancestor photos from both Heath & Amidon side. Here is another one she scanned in and sent me. She will send in more photos as she scans. She has more of William Heath's family.
May 8, 2008 - Pictures
My sister Lynne and I are so pleased with you sharing the pictures with us. She was so thrilled with the pictures - particularly the one with our Dad - we have very few pictures of him growing up or in his early 20s. She also pointed out that we have a picture of my Dad and Uncle Bill with Kate Heath - and they look quite a bit like George and Will Jr.
*************************
I will be downloading the pictures and printing them onto nice picture paper. I can mail some over to you. My parents have a kodac camera printer that I already started printing these photos onto. They look like they are originals. Its great. Toni told me that she has had some scanner problems but will be scanning many more photos in the next month.
When I first started talking to Toni about pictures in 2007, she said she remembered somewhere in the collection there was a photo of a man in a civil war uniform. I have been patiently waiting for her to find the pic, scan it and send it my way.
I figure the Civil War pic is either William Heath or James Shay. I am thinking it is most likely William Heath though. There are a lot of Heath photos in Toni's collection. It will be cool to get the pic though.
***********************************************
Would be easier for you to save the pictures to CD or DVD? This way we could share them with our brothers. My sister showed my brother Rick the pictures you sent. He asked where was the picture taken - I was assuming that it was taken at George Heath's farm? Please thank Toni for us. I would like to say again - we are so blessed that you answered my email a year ago - we have learned about the Heaths - but also it appeared that our Dad had a strong relationship with the Heaths. My sister recalled hearing my Dad talk about Uncle Frank.
************************************************
Yes I remember my grandmother talking about Uncle Frank. He was a hermit that lived in a shack in Heath Hollow...the original land of Nehemiah & Catherine Heath. He was a beekeeper and the Heath & Seeley cousins would come down the hill when they were kids and Uncle Frank would make them pancakes. He is became the guardian for Jim & Kate Heath after their father passed away.
Do you want me to send a CD now with all the pictures on it or wait a little when I get more photos. Let me know.
************************************************
You can wait until you get more. There is no hurry.
*************************
I will be downloading the pictures and printing them onto nice picture paper. I can mail some over to you. My parents have a kodac camera printer that I already started printing these photos onto. They look like they are originals. Its great. Toni told me that she has had some scanner problems but will be scanning many more photos in the next month.
When I first started talking to Toni about pictures in 2007, she said she remembered somewhere in the collection there was a photo of a man in a civil war uniform. I have been patiently waiting for her to find the pic, scan it and send it my way.
I figure the Civil War pic is either William Heath or James Shay. I am thinking it is most likely William Heath though. There are a lot of Heath photos in Toni's collection. It will be cool to get the pic though.
***********************************************
Would be easier for you to save the pictures to CD or DVD? This way we could share them with our brothers. My sister showed my brother Rick the pictures you sent. He asked where was the picture taken - I was assuming that it was taken at George Heath's farm? Please thank Toni for us. I would like to say again - we are so blessed that you answered my email a year ago - we have learned about the Heaths - but also it appeared that our Dad had a strong relationship with the Heaths. My sister recalled hearing my Dad talk about Uncle Frank.
************************************************
Yes I remember my grandmother talking about Uncle Frank. He was a hermit that lived in a shack in Heath Hollow...the original land of Nehemiah & Catherine Heath. He was a beekeeper and the Heath & Seeley cousins would come down the hill when they were kids and Uncle Frank would make them pancakes. He is became the guardian for Jim & Kate Heath after their father passed away.
Do you want me to send a CD now with all the pictures on it or wait a little when I get more photos. Let me know.
************************************************
You can wait until you get more. There is no hurry.
May 7, 2008 -
Here is a picture that Tony Heath Schramm found in her collection. Some of the Heath relatives mixing with some of Emaline's relatives. On the back is written the following.
Pic: Family gathering ..circa late 1930's?
Paul Dennis, Emaline Amidon Heath, Nigel Long (friend), Frances Stewart, George Heath, Lyndon Seeley, Jennie Dennis - in front: Charlotte Heath, Josie Seeley (first cousin to dad), Helen Dennis (wife of Bob), Bob Dennis, and right in front: Henry Seeley (Pic taken by John Dennis)
********************************
This is a great photo - thank you so much please tell Tony thank you. Lyndon was my dad - Nigel was Aunt Georgie's brother- Josie - I'm assuming was Josephine - my Dad's sister. Who are the Dennis's?
April 23, 2008 - Sidney Crandall
Not sure if this individual is related to our Crandalls but I thought it interesting he was married to a Mary Chase and lived in Potter County.
SIDNEY CRANDALL
Well Known Former Whitesville Citizen Died at Andover Saturday
SIDNEY CRANDALL, a former resident of this place, and a man well known throughout Allegany County, died at his home in Andover saturday morning at 1 o'clock at the age of 73 yrs. Funeral was held from late home in Andover, Monday morning, and interment was made in Rural Cemetery at this place, Rev. F. M. Baker, pastor of the M. E. church of Andover, officiated at both services.Mr. CRANDALL was born in this village Feb. 2, 1840, where he made his home until he reached the age of twenty-one. In 1861 he enlisted in the union army, and served throughout the civil war. He spent one year in Andersonville prison.In 1867 he married Mary CHASE of this place. He conducted a general merchandise business at Raymond, Potter county, Pa., for a number of years, afterwards, moving to this place, where he also was in the mercantile business.
In the early eighties Mrs. CRANDALL died, and several years later he was united in marriage to Mrs. Clara DEXTER.It was while in business in this village he was elected County Superintendent of the Poor on the Republican ticket. He very capably filled this position for two terms, the present incumbent, D. C. GRUNDER, being his successor.Mr. CRANDALL was a member of the Baptist church. He was also a charter member of DEXTER Post, G. A. R., but upon his retirement from public office he took up Andover as his residence, and was transferred to that post.He was engaged in the store business in Andover for a time. Mr. CRANDALL was a public spirited citizen, much beloved by all who knew him.For three or four years the deceased had been in failing health. The immediate cause of his demise was a shock. He is survived by his wife of Andover, and four sons: Maurice, of Rochester and Wilford of Sistersville, W. Va., by his first marriage: George and Frank of Andover by his second marriage, and two sisters, Mrs. John ROSE and Mrs. Antoinette DEXTER, both of this place, besides many other sorrowing friends and relatives.
SIDNEY CRANDALL
Well Known Former Whitesville Citizen Died at Andover Saturday
SIDNEY CRANDALL, a former resident of this place, and a man well known throughout Allegany County, died at his home in Andover saturday morning at 1 o'clock at the age of 73 yrs. Funeral was held from late home in Andover, Monday morning, and interment was made in Rural Cemetery at this place, Rev. F. M. Baker, pastor of the M. E. church of Andover, officiated at both services.Mr. CRANDALL was born in this village Feb. 2, 1840, where he made his home until he reached the age of twenty-one. In 1861 he enlisted in the union army, and served throughout the civil war. He spent one year in Andersonville prison.In 1867 he married Mary CHASE of this place. He conducted a general merchandise business at Raymond, Potter county, Pa., for a number of years, afterwards, moving to this place, where he also was in the mercantile business.
In the early eighties Mrs. CRANDALL died, and several years later he was united in marriage to Mrs. Clara DEXTER.It was while in business in this village he was elected County Superintendent of the Poor on the Republican ticket. He very capably filled this position for two terms, the present incumbent, D. C. GRUNDER, being his successor.Mr. CRANDALL was a member of the Baptist church. He was also a charter member of DEXTER Post, G. A. R., but upon his retirement from public office he took up Andover as his residence, and was transferred to that post.He was engaged in the store business in Andover for a time. Mr. CRANDALL was a public spirited citizen, much beloved by all who knew him.For three or four years the deceased had been in failing health. The immediate cause of his demise was a shock. He is survived by his wife of Andover, and four sons: Maurice, of Rochester and Wilford of Sistersville, W. Va., by his first marriage: George and Frank of Andover by his second marriage, and two sisters, Mrs. John ROSE and Mrs. Antoinette DEXTER, both of this place, besides many other sorrowing friends and relatives.
April 10, 2008 - Clarence Lane/Maude Button/Henrietta Wood
Just had a few minutes at lunch today and was searching for info on the Wood side of the family. We have been able to trace the Wood side back to Robert Henry Wood and then the info stops. Aunt Edie said she was unable to find any thing beyond that point either.
So today I was inputting different names of my g grandfather's siblings ... Henrietta Wood and 'lo and behold - the search brought up her daugher Maude who happened to be married to a Clarence Lane (1st wife)... which then brought up your family tree!
Henrietta was a sibling of George W. Wood ... my g grandfather their parents were: Robert Henry Wood and Altena Bice. Did you know of this connection?
********************************************
No I did not...I did have it written down on my notes that my grandfather's first wife Maude Button was the daughter of a Henrietta Wood. Wow...small world. My mother has the wedding china from my grandfather's wedding to Maude...from 1914. My mother will think that connection is cool.
*******************************************
can't wait to relay this info to Aunt Edie. She will be most pleased.
So today I was inputting different names of my g grandfather's siblings ... Henrietta Wood and 'lo and behold - the search brought up her daugher Maude who happened to be married to a Clarence Lane (1st wife)... which then brought up your family tree!
Henrietta was a sibling of George W. Wood ... my g grandfather their parents were: Robert Henry Wood and Altena Bice. Did you know of this connection?
********************************************
No I did not...I did have it written down on my notes that my grandfather's first wife Maude Button was the daughter of a Henrietta Wood. Wow...small world. My mother has the wedding china from my grandfather's wedding to Maude...from 1914. My mother will think that connection is cool.
*******************************************
can't wait to relay this info to Aunt Edie. She will be most pleased.
April 7, 2008 - Uncle Roy
Aunt Edie's husband "Roy" Wood passed away yesterday. His calling hours and funeral are tomorrow with a full military burial service at the VA on Thursday morning.
March 28, 2008 - "The Shay"
Not sure if I sent this to you before or not, but there is on record a legal action that took place back in 1875 in Warren County. Parshall v. Conklin - in the lawsuit it mentions a John F Vaneps selling to Silas Shay deed dated 12/28/1869.
There appears to be various pieces of land but one in particular is referred to as "The Shay" which apparently was 300 acres.
******************
There appears to be various pieces of land but one in particular is referred to as "The Shay" which apparently was 300 acres.
******************
March 27, 2008 - Amanda Shay
Shortcut to: http://books.google.com/books?id=zq5OAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA477&lpg=PA477&dq=%22Amanda+Shay%22&source=bl&ots=oL6grTdrsS&sig=LNCJ5NlkUGMcM8-gskG7FRy2ujY&hl=en&ei=9hvNSe_hCN7tlQfShPHtCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=3&ct=result
Do you think this might be our Amanda Shay?
*************************************
Yeah that is the same Amanda Melvina Shay although she married Joshua Hill Richardson in 1860.
*************************************
They had 3 children Jessie, Lennie and LaVerne (bert) - I found a deed recording where an Elam E. and Laverne F. Richardson bought property in Thompson Township in 11/2008 - it was in the Wyalusing, PA newspaper -- I wonder if this is a grandchild of Amanda.
Do you think this might be our Amanda Shay?
*************************************
Yeah that is the same Amanda Melvina Shay although she married Joshua Hill Richardson in 1860.
*************************************
They had 3 children Jessie, Lennie and LaVerne (bert) - I found a deed recording where an Elam E. and Laverne F. Richardson bought property in Thompson Township in 11/2008 - it was in the Wyalusing, PA newspaper -- I wonder if this is a grandchild of Amanda.
March 26, 2008 - Delilah Chase and her Sister Amanda
Delilah's sister Amanda was married to a Monroe - I truly find this fascinating because on my Mom's side there is a Martha Monroe that married a Bice - I think there may be a remote connection between my Mom's ancestors and my Dad's ancestors. ...
************************************
Well there is the old saying...you go back far enough in Potter County and you'll discover that everyone is related.
I truely think that James Monroe Shay is the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton. The Suttons are either from NY, PA or CT depending on which census you look at for Peter & Sophronia's children. I also think that Peter Shay born in Nov 1800 in NJ is the son of Peter Shay & Catharine Bunn who moved from Morris County, NJ to Ossian, NY around 1809. The 1820 & 1830 census would hint at this. 1820 census for Peter Shay's house hold in Ossian, NY.2 males - 18 to 26 years old1 male - 27 to 45 years old1 male - 46 years old & up1 female - age 16 to 261 female - age 45 and up
List of Peter & Catherine's known children:1) Anna, b. 17822) Richard, b. 17843) John, b. 17884) Elizabeth, b. 1791 5) Lewis, b. 17946) Mary, b. 1797
By the 1820 census, Anna, Richard, Elizabeth would have been out of the household. Anna Shay might never have left New Jersey since her family would have moved when she was 26 years old. By then she was probably married with children of her own. Richard was married by 1820 with several young children, and Elizabeth was married to John Gelson.
Below are the most likely candidates of who was living in Peter Shay's household in 1820. John Shay (would have been bet. 27 to 45 years old in 1820)Lewis Shay (would have been bet. 18 to 26 years old in 1820)Mary Shay (would have been bet. 16 to 26 years old in 1820)
Now there is an extra male between the ages of 18 to 26. I think this is Peter Shay and I think he is the youngest child of Peter & Catharine. I also think he is the person that has the wife and young child living with Peter Shay in 1830 census. Also it would make sense that out of several sons Peter had, one of them would take his name.
Where the Monroe connection would come in I do not know? I am estimating that Sophronia Sutton would have been born bet. 1800-1810 according to the 1840 census of Young Peter Shay's household. She was most likely deceased by 1860 since Peter Shay is living by himself. Perhaps the Monroe connection comes in through her...perhaps her mother was a Monroe prior to 1800. I would not know where the Sutton Family would have originated since most of the counties in Western New York where first being found in the early 1800's. Before then, many of the settlers cames from MA, CT, VT, NYC area or NJ.
If James Shay is indeed Sophronia Sutton Shay's son, then he would be her 5th child. It could be a possibility that she chose to name her son after her mother's background. Monroe is a very common name. I see the name pop up in all the counties in the 1800's. With this little of info, its hard to gage what connection the name Monroe plays with James or which Monroes might be connected. James was born in 1836, and the earliest records of a Monroe connection may be the very early 1800's or 1700's.
I do love a good puzzle to solve.
************************************
Well there is the old saying...you go back far enough in Potter County and you'll discover that everyone is related.
I truely think that James Monroe Shay is the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton. The Suttons are either from NY, PA or CT depending on which census you look at for Peter & Sophronia's children. I also think that Peter Shay born in Nov 1800 in NJ is the son of Peter Shay & Catharine Bunn who moved from Morris County, NJ to Ossian, NY around 1809. The 1820 & 1830 census would hint at this. 1820 census for Peter Shay's house hold in Ossian, NY.2 males - 18 to 26 years old1 male - 27 to 45 years old1 male - 46 years old & up1 female - age 16 to 261 female - age 45 and up
List of Peter & Catherine's known children:1) Anna, b. 17822) Richard, b. 17843) John, b. 17884) Elizabeth, b. 1791 5) Lewis, b. 17946) Mary, b. 1797
By the 1820 census, Anna, Richard, Elizabeth would have been out of the household. Anna Shay might never have left New Jersey since her family would have moved when she was 26 years old. By then she was probably married with children of her own. Richard was married by 1820 with several young children, and Elizabeth was married to John Gelson.
Below are the most likely candidates of who was living in Peter Shay's household in 1820. John Shay (would have been bet. 27 to 45 years old in 1820)Lewis Shay (would have been bet. 18 to 26 years old in 1820)Mary Shay (would have been bet. 16 to 26 years old in 1820)
Now there is an extra male between the ages of 18 to 26. I think this is Peter Shay and I think he is the youngest child of Peter & Catharine. I also think he is the person that has the wife and young child living with Peter Shay in 1830 census. Also it would make sense that out of several sons Peter had, one of them would take his name.
Where the Monroe connection would come in I do not know? I am estimating that Sophronia Sutton would have been born bet. 1800-1810 according to the 1840 census of Young Peter Shay's household. She was most likely deceased by 1860 since Peter Shay is living by himself. Perhaps the Monroe connection comes in through her...perhaps her mother was a Monroe prior to 1800. I would not know where the Sutton Family would have originated since most of the counties in Western New York where first being found in the early 1800's. Before then, many of the settlers cames from MA, CT, VT, NYC area or NJ.
If James Shay is indeed Sophronia Sutton Shay's son, then he would be her 5th child. It could be a possibility that she chose to name her son after her mother's background. Monroe is a very common name. I see the name pop up in all the counties in the 1800's. With this little of info, its hard to gage what connection the name Monroe plays with James or which Monroes might be connected. James was born in 1836, and the earliest records of a Monroe connection may be the very early 1800's or 1700's.
I do love a good puzzle to solve.
March 25, 2008 -- Silas Shay's daughter Bessie
Daughter of Silas and Delilah Shay - Bessie L. Shay married William Manley - they had 2 children: Dan Manley (7 Jul 1903 - Dec 1955 or 1930?) and Roena Manley (1906). Roena married Charles Sylvester Davie (1898) - they had 2 children Barbara 1928 and J. David 1930 Maybe if we trace these 2 people down - we might find some photos or something.
*********************************************
I looked into Bessie's line and Bessie was divorced from William Manley by 1930. As far as I could find Don Manley is buried in Sweden Hill Cemetery near his mother and grandparents. I would guess that there are still descendants in Potter County of Bessie Shay Manley.
On a side note: My great-grandfather George Heath use to tell my Uncle Justin that the Heath side was connected/related to the Knickerbocker Family in Potter County. I have found no evidence as of yet on how we are connected. Neither George or Emaline's side seems to have ties to the family. Just thought you might find that interesting. I wonder where that missing link is.
******************************************
At one point when I was looking at Roena - I believe the daughter was still alive and may be living in FL.
*********************************************
I looked into Bessie's line and Bessie was divorced from William Manley by 1930. As far as I could find Don Manley is buried in Sweden Hill Cemetery near his mother and grandparents. I would guess that there are still descendants in Potter County of Bessie Shay Manley.
On a side note: My great-grandfather George Heath use to tell my Uncle Justin that the Heath side was connected/related to the Knickerbocker Family in Potter County. I have found no evidence as of yet on how we are connected. Neither George or Emaline's side seems to have ties to the family. Just thought you might find that interesting. I wonder where that missing link is.
******************************************
At one point when I was looking at Roena - I believe the daughter was still alive and may be living in FL.
March 23, 2008 - Silas's File - Just Arrived!!!
It was delivered just as we sat down for dinner tonight. It is 65 pages and yes, he was severely wounded on the face. Will scan tomorrow and send to you the pages of the documents. Will send a synopsis as soon as I go thru it quickly. Just numbered the pages so I don't mix them up as I did the James Shay ones.
*****************************************
Wow,When reading about the head injury from a gunshot...it was exactly how my great-grandfather George Heath mentioned it to his children and grandchildren. He always talked about having 3 family members that served in the War. He knew the one that suffered from the gunshot to the head. My uncle Lynn couldn't remember how that member fit into the family. George Heath would have been 15 years old when Silas Shay died. I am pretty sure that Silas Shay was a brother to James Shay and uncle to Jane & Nancy. This is all starting to tie together.
****************************************
Here's a quick synopsis of the documents (excuse the typos)
Delila R. Shay - Widow of Silas L. Shay
Silas died 4/18/1902
People present at marriage are all dead except claimant Delila R. Shay
She was married before and former husband died about the year 1883
First husband was B. F. Roberts married 1862
Married to Shay for about 22 years
He was never married before
Lived together as man and wife until his death Silas L. Shay
At time of his death - he 119 acres of land in Sweden Township
5 Cows, 1 horse and farming implements
1 legal heir - daughter who married William Manley
Died Intestate - Widow only receive 1/3 of his property
Left no life insurance or other means of support for his wife Delila Shay
Own right owned 94 acres of land in Sweden Township
Married 3 July 1884 in Sweden to Silas
She married B. F. Roberts June 1, 1862 and he died April 18, 1882
William Manley husband of Shay’s daughter and heir occupies the farm and has charge of all the property left by Silas Shay
Also charge of farm belonging to Delila R. Shay
No leases of any kind
He works the farm
Delila makes her home with said Wm Manley
Certificate of Disability for Discharge Silas L. Shay - Enlisted 3 Nov 1861 to serve 3 years
Discharged 10/6/1862
Born in Alleghany Co. in NY S 22 years of age5’ 7” high, light complexion, blue eyes, dark hair
Occupation: Farmer
Station: Camp Convalescent, Ft. Elsworth, VA10/2/1862 Anchylosis (the fusion of a joint, often in an abnormal position, usually resulting from destruction of articular cartilage and subchondral bone, ) the jaw from a wound probably of the ______process Gun shot wound of head -
Delila R. Shay entitled to $20 per month commencing 9/8/1916 … Act of July 14, 1862 - No. 176368
Silas L. Shay - Wellsville, Allegany Cty, NY Received: 7/15/1872 Received arrears of $8 per month from 10/7/1862 go 7/14/1872 $8 fro 7/15/1872 to 8/27/1884$12 per month /13/1890 to death
Deed - dated 12/14/1883 - for $4,200 - piece of land Miles T. Chase & Wife to Silas L Shay-
And Johnson Chase & Wife to Delila R. Roberts 4/28/1873 for $1500.00
Delilah R Chase - married Silas 7/3/1884 Sweden Potter PA by Rev Carr had child Bessie Lila Shay 28 July 1885
Gun Shot Wound of head received at Battle of Cedar Mountain VA Aug 9 1862 - ball entered about ½ inch forward of lower part of left ear passing through the head and coming out about one inch forward of the center of right ear injuring the jaw bone. Impaired hearing in both ears found on examination - reference to the medical reference for action Wounded face - severely - Aug 9, 1862 near Culpener Court House, VA Cedar Mtn treated 8/13 to 8/30 1862 - Vulnus sclopeticum; 8/30 to 9/18, 1862 Vul. Sclopt. 9/18 to 9/24 Debilitas, ret’d to duty .. ball entered on the left side half an inch in front of lobe of ear passed through and came out two inches in front lobe of right ear. Incomplete ankylossi of inferior maxillary hastication very imperfect (nearly impossible)/ Voice much changed and nearly suppressed/ He has a vigorous organization and could be take sufficient nourishment might have great power of endurance. … unnatural articulation -- vocal sound impossible … now almost complete anchylosis of two joints separates jaws about 3/8 inch - disability total - cicatrices sound, some adhesion of skin to underlying structures. Near left eye, there is a constant muces-purelent discharge - there is obstruction of lachrynnal duct.
Clothing account : 12/3/1861 - $15.69 2/28/1862 - $5.673/29/1862 $10.796/12/1862 $1.94
Said Silas was wounded at the battled of Cedar Mountain on 9 Aug 1862 and lost his knapsack haversack and canteen.
Enlisted 22 years of age - in Warren Cty PA
Received $938.13 for arrears 10/7/1862 to 7/15/1872 -
Feb 28 1872 affidavit of Silas Shay - resident of Alma in Allegany Cty - Discharged in Alexander VA in 10/1862 Currently 32 yrs. Battle Cedar Mountain Aug 9 1862 received gunshot wound - the ball entering the had about one half inch forward of the lower part of the left ear passing through the head and coming out about 1 inch forward of the center of the right ear that his jaw bone is .. injured so much so that he can open his mouth only about one-half inch is painful when eating and taking much time in eating and preparing the food suitable to insert into his mouth.
The injury effects his head and his hearing and produces a dissiness in the head and in attempting to work in the sun he is majorally affected that he unable to do but .. labour by reason of the wound.
By occupation is a farmer that he was treated in hospital in Alexandria Anapolas MD was sent back to Alexandra from Alexander Hospital to convalensant camp. He has resided since he left the service in ____ PA and in Allegany C NY. That he hereby appoints Lewis Foster of Wellsville as his attorney to prosecute his claim.
*****************************************
Wow,When reading about the head injury from a gunshot...it was exactly how my great-grandfather George Heath mentioned it to his children and grandchildren. He always talked about having 3 family members that served in the War. He knew the one that suffered from the gunshot to the head. My uncle Lynn couldn't remember how that member fit into the family. George Heath would have been 15 years old when Silas Shay died. I am pretty sure that Silas Shay was a brother to James Shay and uncle to Jane & Nancy. This is all starting to tie together.
****************************************
Here's a quick synopsis of the documents (excuse the typos)
Delila R. Shay - Widow of Silas L. Shay
Silas died 4/18/1902
People present at marriage are all dead except claimant Delila R. Shay
She was married before and former husband died about the year 1883
First husband was B. F. Roberts married 1862
Married to Shay for about 22 years
He was never married before
Lived together as man and wife until his death Silas L. Shay
At time of his death - he 119 acres of land in Sweden Township
5 Cows, 1 horse and farming implements
1 legal heir - daughter who married William Manley
Died Intestate - Widow only receive 1/3 of his property
Left no life insurance or other means of support for his wife Delila Shay
Own right owned 94 acres of land in Sweden Township
Married 3 July 1884 in Sweden to Silas
She married B. F. Roberts June 1, 1862 and he died April 18, 1882
William Manley husband of Shay’s daughter and heir occupies the farm and has charge of all the property left by Silas Shay
Also charge of farm belonging to Delila R. Shay
No leases of any kind
He works the farm
Delila makes her home with said Wm Manley
Certificate of Disability for Discharge Silas L. Shay - Enlisted 3 Nov 1861 to serve 3 years
Discharged 10/6/1862
Born in Alleghany Co. in NY S 22 years of age5’ 7” high, light complexion, blue eyes, dark hair
Occupation: Farmer
Station: Camp Convalescent, Ft. Elsworth, VA10/2/1862 Anchylosis (the fusion of a joint, often in an abnormal position, usually resulting from destruction of articular cartilage and subchondral bone, ) the jaw from a wound probably of the ______process Gun shot wound of head -
Delila R. Shay entitled to $20 per month commencing 9/8/1916 … Act of July 14, 1862 - No. 176368
Silas L. Shay - Wellsville, Allegany Cty, NY Received: 7/15/1872 Received arrears of $8 per month from 10/7/1862 go 7/14/1872 $8 fro 7/15/1872 to 8/27/1884$12 per month /13/1890 to death
Deed - dated 12/14/1883 - for $4,200 - piece of land Miles T. Chase & Wife to Silas L Shay-
And Johnson Chase & Wife to Delila R. Roberts 4/28/1873 for $1500.00
Delilah R Chase - married Silas 7/3/1884 Sweden Potter PA by Rev Carr had child Bessie Lila Shay 28 July 1885
Gun Shot Wound of head received at Battle of Cedar Mountain VA Aug 9 1862 - ball entered about ½ inch forward of lower part of left ear passing through the head and coming out about one inch forward of the center of right ear injuring the jaw bone. Impaired hearing in both ears found on examination - reference to the medical reference for action Wounded face - severely - Aug 9, 1862 near Culpener Court House, VA Cedar Mtn treated 8/13 to 8/30 1862 - Vulnus sclopeticum; 8/30 to 9/18, 1862 Vul. Sclopt. 9/18 to 9/24 Debilitas, ret’d to duty .. ball entered on the left side half an inch in front of lobe of ear passed through and came out two inches in front lobe of right ear. Incomplete ankylossi of inferior maxillary hastication very imperfect (nearly impossible)/ Voice much changed and nearly suppressed/ He has a vigorous organization and could be take sufficient nourishment might have great power of endurance. … unnatural articulation -- vocal sound impossible … now almost complete anchylosis of two joints separates jaws about 3/8 inch - disability total - cicatrices sound, some adhesion of skin to underlying structures. Near left eye, there is a constant muces-purelent discharge - there is obstruction of lachrynnal duct.
Clothing account : 12/3/1861 - $15.69 2/28/1862 - $5.673/29/1862 $10.796/12/1862 $1.94
Said Silas was wounded at the battled of Cedar Mountain on 9 Aug 1862 and lost his knapsack haversack and canteen.
Enlisted 22 years of age - in Warren Cty PA
Received $938.13 for arrears 10/7/1862 to 7/15/1872 -
Feb 28 1872 affidavit of Silas Shay - resident of Alma in Allegany Cty - Discharged in Alexander VA in 10/1862 Currently 32 yrs. Battle Cedar Mountain Aug 9 1862 received gunshot wound - the ball entering the had about one half inch forward of the lower part of the left ear passing through the head and coming out about 1 inch forward of the center of the right ear that his jaw bone is .. injured so much so that he can open his mouth only about one-half inch is painful when eating and taking much time in eating and preparing the food suitable to insert into his mouth.
The injury effects his head and his hearing and produces a dissiness in the head and in attempting to work in the sun he is majorally affected that he unable to do but .. labour by reason of the wound.
By occupation is a farmer that he was treated in hospital in Alexandria Anapolas MD was sent back to Alexandra from Alexander Hospital to convalensant camp. He has resided since he left the service in ____ PA and in Allegany C NY. That he hereby appoints Lewis Foster of Wellsville as his attorney to prosecute his claim.
March 23, 2008 - Silas Shay's Pension Files
The file hasn't arrived yet in the mail. I'm hoping this week. As I said before, last time it was only a couple of days after the charge went through. I came across a book title that may be of help to us.
I haven't found a copy yet but thought I would go to the library and see if SU could get a copy from another institute.
Some descendants of Peter Shay of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania / edited by Mary Ann Nicholson.by Nicholson, Mary Ann. [United States : M.A. Nicholson?, 1986] Subjects· Shea family.Description: [3] leaves, 32 p. : ill. ; 28 cm.
Notes: Title from cover."October 1986"--Leaf [3]Includes index."Supplements the article, 'Shays of Livingston County, New York,' published in The New York Genealogical and Biographical Record in October 1986."--Foreword
****************************************
I haven't found a copy yet but thought I would go to the library and see if SU could get a copy from another institute.
Some descendants of Peter Shay of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania / edited by Mary Ann Nicholson.by Nicholson, Mary Ann. [United States : M.A. Nicholson?, 1986] Subjects· Shea family.Description: [3] leaves, 32 p. : ill. ; 28 cm.
Notes: Title from cover."October 1986"--Leaf [3]Includes index."Supplements the article, 'Shays of Livingston County, New York,' published in The New York Genealogical and Biographical Record in October 1986."--Foreword
****************************************
March 20, 2008 - William Heath's Pension Papers Arrived!!
William Heath's pension records arrived today in the mail. Not too much info...25 pages total. Below is the info I have. I will email you a scan copy on Monday when I go back to work.
William A. HeathRank: PrivateCompany: FRegiment: 210 PA. vol. infService: Sept. 3, 1864 - May 30, 1865
William was approved for $6.00 a month as an invalid. He suffered from rheumatism and kidney trouble which was the reason he received his pension as an invalid.
William Heath made a statement on Dec. 16, 1891 complaining that he has spells of pain in his left hip and shoulder and down to his calves and legs. He also has pain in his back and has to pass water frequently.
William Heath was described as 5'9, 160 lbs, dark hair, blue eyes with a dark complexion.
On Feb 16, 1906, Frank Heath, William's brother made a declaration for children under 16 years of age. He was listed as the legal guardian of the minor children James Monroe Heath and Katherine Heath. (The record actually lists James' middle name as Monroe).
The records show that William Heath died on October 30, 1903 in Brookland, Potter Co., PA and he married Jane Shay on September 26, 1885 in Raymond, Potter Co., PA.
Jane died March 19, 1898 - cause of death not listed.
Following children born to the couple that were living as of July 4, 1898:
George - b. Oct 20, 1886
William - b. Oct. 13, 1888
James - b. July 12, 1891
Katharine - b. Sept. 6, 1893
Civil War Medical Records show William treated as follows:Jan 5 to Feb 1, 1865 - Diarrhea, Remit FeverFeb 1 to 10, 1865 - Intermittent FeverFeb 10 & 11, 1865 - Typhoid Fever Feb 12 to Apr 14, 1865, Intermittent Fever
I look forward to what Silas' records have to say about him.
********************************************
I went home for Kitty's funeral - I'll check as soon as I get back.Interesting that Jane's named her son James Monroe.....I still think there may be a connection to the Monroes in census for Potter County - Monroes, Shays, etc. came from the same general area in NY.
William A. HeathRank: PrivateCompany: FRegiment: 210 PA. vol. infService: Sept. 3, 1864 - May 30, 1865
William was approved for $6.00 a month as an invalid. He suffered from rheumatism and kidney trouble which was the reason he received his pension as an invalid.
William Heath made a statement on Dec. 16, 1891 complaining that he has spells of pain in his left hip and shoulder and down to his calves and legs. He also has pain in his back and has to pass water frequently.
William Heath was described as 5'9, 160 lbs, dark hair, blue eyes with a dark complexion.
On Feb 16, 1906, Frank Heath, William's brother made a declaration for children under 16 years of age. He was listed as the legal guardian of the minor children James Monroe Heath and Katherine Heath. (The record actually lists James' middle name as Monroe).
The records show that William Heath died on October 30, 1903 in Brookland, Potter Co., PA and he married Jane Shay on September 26, 1885 in Raymond, Potter Co., PA.
Jane died March 19, 1898 - cause of death not listed.
Following children born to the couple that were living as of July 4, 1898:
George - b. Oct 20, 1886
William - b. Oct. 13, 1888
James - b. July 12, 1891
Katharine - b. Sept. 6, 1893
Civil War Medical Records show William treated as follows:Jan 5 to Feb 1, 1865 - Diarrhea, Remit FeverFeb 1 to 10, 1865 - Intermittent FeverFeb 10 & 11, 1865 - Typhoid Fever Feb 12 to Apr 14, 1865, Intermittent Fever
I look forward to what Silas' records have to say about him.
********************************************
I went home for Kitty's funeral - I'll check as soon as I get back.Interesting that Jane's named her son James Monroe.....I still think there may be a connection to the Monroes in census for Potter County - Monroes, Shays, etc. came from the same general area in NY.
March 17, 2008 - Silas Shay's Pension Records
My credit card was charged today so the file must be ready for shipping. Will keep you posted!
Also, on a sad note. I was advised this morning that my cousin Kitty passed away early this morning. If might have met her at the reunion - but she is the one that the movie "Conviction of Kitty Dodds" was based on her life story.
*********************************************
I'm sorry to hear about your cousin Kitty. I remember meeting her last summer and I remember seeing the movie many years back.
I am being told that my request for William Heath's service records are still servicing. I put in the request 3/2/09 and haven't been charged yet. Below is the tracking number.
F41-44596984E
I am hoping it will ship soon. I am interested to see what Silas Shay's records have to say.
**********************************************
I looked at my bank statement and last year when I ordered James Shay - when the charge hit my acct - I had the file in a day or two. My account still says it is servicing but I assuming that the "record keeping" runs a little later than the actual shipment. I am hoping it is. I also received some information from the Swimilar descendants. This would be Ira's g grandmother - Sarah Swimilar. The individual has traced it back to Hessian soldiers coming to fight for the British -- 2 stayed in American ... and thus the saga for the Swimilar (Swimelar, Swimley ... ) descendants. So that was kind of exciting as well.
***********************************************
Both our requests are awaiting shipment. We should have them within a day or two.
***********************************************
Thats great...we should have good reading material...i'll scan and copy William Heath's for you. Do you prefer email copy of mailed copy.
**********************************************
A scan/email version works for me but if it is easier for you to copy that is okay too.
**********************************************
I'll do the same for the Silas's folder - what would you prefer?
Also, on a sad note. I was advised this morning that my cousin Kitty passed away early this morning. If might have met her at the reunion - but she is the one that the movie "Conviction of Kitty Dodds" was based on her life story.
*********************************************
I'm sorry to hear about your cousin Kitty. I remember meeting her last summer and I remember seeing the movie many years back.
I am being told that my request for William Heath's service records are still servicing. I put in the request 3/2/09 and haven't been charged yet. Below is the tracking number.
F41-44596984E
I am hoping it will ship soon. I am interested to see what Silas Shay's records have to say.
**********************************************
I looked at my bank statement and last year when I ordered James Shay - when the charge hit my acct - I had the file in a day or two. My account still says it is servicing but I assuming that the "record keeping" runs a little later than the actual shipment. I am hoping it is. I also received some information from the Swimilar descendants. This would be Ira's g grandmother - Sarah Swimilar. The individual has traced it back to Hessian soldiers coming to fight for the British -- 2 stayed in American ... and thus the saga for the Swimilar (Swimelar, Swimley ... ) descendants. So that was kind of exciting as well.
***********************************************
Both our requests are awaiting shipment. We should have them within a day or two.
***********************************************
Thats great...we should have good reading material...i'll scan and copy William Heath's for you. Do you prefer email copy of mailed copy.
**********************************************
A scan/email version works for me but if it is easier for you to copy that is okay too.
**********************************************
I'll do the same for the Silas's folder - what would you prefer?
March 2, 2008 - William Heath's Pension Records
The records have been ordered for William Heath, Co. F, 210th PA. (1864-1865). National Archives stated that it would take 42 to 120 days to arrive.
Silas Shay served in Co. B, 111th PA (1861-1862). He was discharged for wounds on 6 Oct 1862. His widow Delila R. Shay received a widow's pension in 1903. In 1892, he was receiving a pension as an invalid.
******************************************************
I've ordered Silas Shay's records. I checked the record for James Shay - it took about 3 weeks for the first half of his record another 2 weeks for the rest. Hopefully, we will only have 1 shipment.
*****************************************************
I hope it only takes 3 weeks and in one shipment. I cannot imagine there will be as much for William Heath. He started receiving his pension while he was still alive. I think the pension records will have William's first hand accounts on his war experiences and about him nearly dying from fever that he had for 10 weeks. I think that will be pretty neat. I think James Shay's records were long because he was already deceased and there was a lot of info about his widow and her other marriages. I wouldn't be surprised if William's records are half if not less than what James records were.
I wonder what Silas Shay's records will say. If he is indeed James' brother, then I wonder if they will mention that he had a brother who also fought in the war. It should most likely discuss Silas' war injury.
******************************************
I'm curious as to what they will contained. I'm a little surprise that it took so long for Silas to get his pension. However, I have read where a lot of the requests were denied several times before they were eventually approved. Also, I was discussing with my sister last night - I don't understand why Nancy, Jane didn't get something for James Shay. You would have thought they would have been entitled to something as his children.
******************************************
I think the reason that James Shay's children didn't get his pension is because they were already grown adults when Civil War Pensions first became available. In 1890 Congress enacted a new law that paid pensions to any Union veteran of the Civil War who served for at least ninety days, was honorably discharged, and suffered from a disability, even if not war-related. This extended to widows and minor children if the soldier was deceased. They received more money if the injury, illness or death was war-related. This is probably why Rebecca was determined to prove that the War had caused James' sickness and death. She would have received more money if that was the case.
Nancy & Jane were not minors by 1890 but Rebecca Withrow was a civil war widow. Although back in the day when widows remarried they forfeited their widows rights to government pensions...kinda the same way nowadays ex-spouses have alimony cut off upon remarriage. The government twice denied Rebecca, once because she had remarried and second because they suspected that she had committed bigamy making her marriage to James Shay invalid.
Silas Shay served in Co. B, 111th PA (1861-1862). He was discharged for wounds on 6 Oct 1862. His widow Delila R. Shay received a widow's pension in 1903. In 1892, he was receiving a pension as an invalid.
******************************************************
I've ordered Silas Shay's records. I checked the record for James Shay - it took about 3 weeks for the first half of his record another 2 weeks for the rest. Hopefully, we will only have 1 shipment.
*****************************************************
I hope it only takes 3 weeks and in one shipment. I cannot imagine there will be as much for William Heath. He started receiving his pension while he was still alive. I think the pension records will have William's first hand accounts on his war experiences and about him nearly dying from fever that he had for 10 weeks. I think that will be pretty neat. I think James Shay's records were long because he was already deceased and there was a lot of info about his widow and her other marriages. I wouldn't be surprised if William's records are half if not less than what James records were.
I wonder what Silas Shay's records will say. If he is indeed James' brother, then I wonder if they will mention that he had a brother who also fought in the war. It should most likely discuss Silas' war injury.
******************************************
I'm curious as to what they will contained. I'm a little surprise that it took so long for Silas to get his pension. However, I have read where a lot of the requests were denied several times before they were eventually approved. Also, I was discussing with my sister last night - I don't understand why Nancy, Jane didn't get something for James Shay. You would have thought they would have been entitled to something as his children.
******************************************
I think the reason that James Shay's children didn't get his pension is because they were already grown adults when Civil War Pensions first became available. In 1890 Congress enacted a new law that paid pensions to any Union veteran of the Civil War who served for at least ninety days, was honorably discharged, and suffered from a disability, even if not war-related. This extended to widows and minor children if the soldier was deceased. They received more money if the injury, illness or death was war-related. This is probably why Rebecca was determined to prove that the War had caused James' sickness and death. She would have received more money if that was the case.
Nancy & Jane were not minors by 1890 but Rebecca Withrow was a civil war widow. Although back in the day when widows remarried they forfeited their widows rights to government pensions...kinda the same way nowadays ex-spouses have alimony cut off upon remarriage. The government twice denied Rebecca, once because she had remarried and second because they suspected that she had committed bigamy making her marriage to James Shay invalid.
February 26, 2008 - Hiram and Sarah Shay & Peter Shay and Sophronia Sutton Shay
the 1850 census show Hiram and Sarah Shay in Newburgh NY - there is a son James Shay 15. I find these interesting because I believe some of his siblings can be located later in OH. Will check further.
**********************
I saw this also awhile back. I thought that it might have been a possibility since it puts James around the same age and a birth location that we know matches up with our James.
I think the strongest possibility is that James Shay is the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton who resided in Allegany County, New York. They had 8 children, 7 accounted for, 1 son unaccounted for.
1) Nathaniel Shay (b. 1830) - 1897 marriage record indicates he is the son of Peter & Sophronia.
2) Mary Shay (b. 1831) - 1850 census links her as sibling to Nancy, George & William Shay)
3) Nancy Shay (b. 1832) - 1870 census & 1880 census links her as sibling of Silas & Amanda
4) George Shay (b. 1834) - later relocated to Ohio.
5) Unknown male (b. bet 1835-1840) - 1840 census shows extra male under 5 years old living with Peter Shay. Unaccounted for afterwards.
6) William Shay (b. 1838) - death record states that he is the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton
7) Silas Shay (b. 1840) - 1860 census links him as sibling of Mary Shay & Amanda, 1870 & 1880 links him as sibling with Nancy.
8) Amanda Shay (b. 1841) - 1860 & 1870 census links her as sibling of Mary & Silas.
The 1850 census has Mary, Nancy, George & William accounted for living with Mary and her husband in Warren Co., PA. Peter Shay, Sophronia, Nathaniel, Unknown son, Silas and Amanda are unaccounted for. I have a strong feeling that if we can located them in an 1850 census then we will find the unknown son who most likely is James Shay (b. 1836). Trivia: My great grandfather George Heath use to tell his grandchildren that he had 3 family members who fought in the Civil War. One of those men was shot in the face and had to be discharged from the Army. George's father William Heath & grandfather James Shay are accounted for and neither were shot in the face.
Silas Shay resided in Sweden Township, Potter Co., PA from the 1880's to his death in 1902. Sweden boards Brookland which is where George, William, Jim & Kate Heath grew up with their parents. Silas Shay was also discharged from the Army during the Civil War due to a serious injury. I do not know what this injury was.
Also 1880 census has Silas living in Allegany Co., NY with Nancy's family. But he married a woman Delilah Roberts in Sweden Twp, Potter Co in 1884. Sometime between 1880-1884 he bought a farm in Sweden Twp. at nearly the same time that Thomas Owens, Nancy Shay Owens & Jane Shay decided to move to Sweden Twp, PA from Scott Co., MO. I find it hard to believe that a move that far was random from MO to PA, especially when Thomas, Nancy & Jane were all teenagers. (My theory is that Silas was the uncle of Nancy & Jane and upon Nancy's marriage, invited them to live on his new farm he had purchased).
Since you were nice to cover the costs of the pension records of James Shay, next week I will be sending away for the pension records of William Heath & Silas Shay and see what info if any it will provide. If the records show that Silas had been shot in the face during the Civil War then I will know that he is indeed related to the family.
Let me know what you think of my theory of James Shay possibly being a son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton.
*****************************
My sister has offered to pay for one of the records. Would you like me to order the Silas Shay record?
******************************
That sounds good...I'm putting in for the record for William Heath today. Jeremy
**********************
I saw this also awhile back. I thought that it might have been a possibility since it puts James around the same age and a birth location that we know matches up with our James.
I think the strongest possibility is that James Shay is the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton who resided in Allegany County, New York. They had 8 children, 7 accounted for, 1 son unaccounted for.
1) Nathaniel Shay (b. 1830) - 1897 marriage record indicates he is the son of Peter & Sophronia.
2) Mary Shay (b. 1831) - 1850 census links her as sibling to Nancy, George & William Shay)
3) Nancy Shay (b. 1832) - 1870 census & 1880 census links her as sibling of Silas & Amanda
4) George Shay (b. 1834) - later relocated to Ohio.
5) Unknown male (b. bet 1835-1840) - 1840 census shows extra male under 5 years old living with Peter Shay. Unaccounted for afterwards.
6) William Shay (b. 1838) - death record states that he is the son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton
7) Silas Shay (b. 1840) - 1860 census links him as sibling of Mary Shay & Amanda, 1870 & 1880 links him as sibling with Nancy.
8) Amanda Shay (b. 1841) - 1860 & 1870 census links her as sibling of Mary & Silas.
The 1850 census has Mary, Nancy, George & William accounted for living with Mary and her husband in Warren Co., PA. Peter Shay, Sophronia, Nathaniel, Unknown son, Silas and Amanda are unaccounted for. I have a strong feeling that if we can located them in an 1850 census then we will find the unknown son who most likely is James Shay (b. 1836). Trivia: My great grandfather George Heath use to tell his grandchildren that he had 3 family members who fought in the Civil War. One of those men was shot in the face and had to be discharged from the Army. George's father William Heath & grandfather James Shay are accounted for and neither were shot in the face.
Silas Shay resided in Sweden Township, Potter Co., PA from the 1880's to his death in 1902. Sweden boards Brookland which is where George, William, Jim & Kate Heath grew up with their parents. Silas Shay was also discharged from the Army during the Civil War due to a serious injury. I do not know what this injury was.
Also 1880 census has Silas living in Allegany Co., NY with Nancy's family. But he married a woman Delilah Roberts in Sweden Twp, Potter Co in 1884. Sometime between 1880-1884 he bought a farm in Sweden Twp. at nearly the same time that Thomas Owens, Nancy Shay Owens & Jane Shay decided to move to Sweden Twp, PA from Scott Co., MO. I find it hard to believe that a move that far was random from MO to PA, especially when Thomas, Nancy & Jane were all teenagers. (My theory is that Silas was the uncle of Nancy & Jane and upon Nancy's marriage, invited them to live on his new farm he had purchased).
Since you were nice to cover the costs of the pension records of James Shay, next week I will be sending away for the pension records of William Heath & Silas Shay and see what info if any it will provide. If the records show that Silas had been shot in the face during the Civil War then I will know that he is indeed related to the family.
Let me know what you think of my theory of James Shay possibly being a son of Peter Shay & Sophronia Sutton.
*****************************
My sister has offered to pay for one of the records. Would you like me to order the Silas Shay record?
******************************
That sounds good...I'm putting in for the record for William Heath today. Jeremy
February 10, 2008 - 1860 Census for Tharps, Ballard, KY
It has been so long I'm not sure if you found this census record or not.
We know that 1830 Census for McCracken KY showed Frederick and Elizabeth and 1850 Census showed Margaret 5, Delphia 8 and Wm 18 along with Allen children: Wm 10, John 5, Matilda 4 and Martha 2, James Smith 13, ...
I came across a Census for 1860 for Tharps Ballard KY for:
Elizabeth Maybery 60
Delphia Maybery 18
John R. Allen 15
Malinda Allen 14
Martha A Allen 12
John T Allen 24
living next door: William Mayberry 29, Sarah 25, Nancy 6, Martha 4, Delphia 1
We know in 1860 - James and Margaret were in Moreland MO
I just checked and I did have a copy of this census, ugh...maybe we should try to trace out these Allens??
We know that 1830 Census for McCracken KY showed Frederick and Elizabeth and 1850 Census showed Margaret 5, Delphia 8 and Wm 18 along with Allen children: Wm 10, John 5, Matilda 4 and Martha 2, James Smith 13, ...
I came across a Census for 1860 for Tharps Ballard KY for:
Elizabeth Maybery 60
Delphia Maybery 18
John R. Allen 15
Malinda Allen 14
Martha A Allen 12
John T Allen 24
living next door: William Mayberry 29, Sarah 25, Nancy 6, Martha 4, Delphia 1
We know in 1860 - James and Margaret were in Moreland MO
I just checked and I did have a copy of this census, ugh...maybe we should try to trace out these Allens??
January 14, 2008 - Owens
haven't spoken to you in awhile and I hope you had a good Christmas and New Years. I called a few Owens in the Coudersport area. I first got into contact with a Cathy Owens who gave me the contact info for her ex-husband John Owens. John Owens is a volunteer for the Austin, PA Historical Society near Coudersport. I phoned him and we spoke for a little bit but he is not a descendant of Thomas & Nancy Shay Owens. His family didn't arrive in the area till the mid 1900's. from another part of PA. No connection to Missouri.
I then called William Owens who is the grandson of Nancy Shay Owens. He is 88 years old and does not remember too much. He said that he was over in Italy in 1944 when his grandmother passed away. He knew that she came from Missouri but never heard her mention any details about her family or her sister Jane. He also said that he had never heard any details about a Native American Connection. William told me that many of Thomas & Nancy's grandchildren are now deceased. I asked if there might be any other family members who would know anything about the family history but he couldn't think of anyone left alive who could help us.
Unfortunately the Owens line in Coudersport will not be able to help us with the Shay line. I am interested in trying to track down Owens descendants in Bradford County, PA. The family seemed to split in the early 1900's with half the children moving to Bradford County and the other children remaining in Potter County.
Also there might be descendants of Bessie Shay. She was the only daughter of Silas L. Shay and Delila Chase Roberts. I am convinced that Silas L. Shay is the reason that Nancy & Jane came to Sweden Township. I believe Silas L. & James M. Shay were brothers, children of Peter Shay & Satira/Sophronia Sutton.
Bessie Shay, (1885-1958) in Sweden Township, married William Manley in 1902. They had two children, Don Manley (1903-1955) and Roena Daisy Manley. Bessie was divorced from William Manley in the 1910's and made a living as a housekeeper. I have the contact information to Jonathan Snyder who is a 3rd great grandson of Delila Chase Roberts Shay, from her first marriage to Benjamin Roberts. I know its a stretch but he might remember family history about Delila's second marriage to Silas L. Shay or perhaps of Silas having nieces that stayed with the family in the 1880's.
I'll let you know what I come up with.
***************************************************
Happy New Year to you and your family.
I don't remember the individual that I sent letters to but I sent them to the house where Nancy Shay lived at one time. I think it was the husband of a grand-child but I figured he would have been in his 80s. Perhaps, we can check the county office and check to see who owns the house.
Aunt Georgie's daughter Joan told me to tell both you and Justin that Aunt Georgie really enjoyed talking to Justin on the phone as well as your visit. (I'm positive that we will get to see and/or have any pictures that they find - once things settle down.)
I did go home for the holiday break and had a chance to see my Aunt Edie and Uncle Roy. She brought out boxes of pictures for us to look at. There were some pictures of Albert and his family, and a few others. Her son-in-law has agreed to scan several pictures that we set aside and said we would like copies of. I will send you copies when I get the CD. Her daughter and son seem really interested in all the family stuff.
The family seems to be getting really excited about our heritage. Aunt Edie had done a lot of research on the Seeleys as well as the Wood connection. She mentioned that there was a statue of a Heath in Gettysburg -- do you know anything about this? I put down the name Alonzo Heath with a question mark in my notes ... next time I will take a recorder. My sister said perhaps it was Lorenzo but I told her I didn't think so.
I've been updating some of my tree information from Aunt Edie's research. I've been also trying to find info regarding my maternal grandfather. He was Curtis Wood s/o George and Philena Button Wood. He was born in Academy Corners but George and Philena lived at one time in Canisteo, NY. He was married (I'm assuming) to a Lillian Williams sometime around 1913 and had a son from that relationship Dellis William Wood who was born in Geneva, NY.
My mother use to tell the story that her mother found Dellis on the door step one morning - he was about 6 years of age. Dellis lived from that point on with his dad and my grandmother. I've located a Lillian Williams in Canisteo in 1910 but nothing from that point on. I'm now combing the cemetery listings for Canisteo and Geneva.
We joke that my hobby is looking for dead people.
Hope all is well with your family and will talk later.
*****************************************************
I was glad to have visited Georgie when I had the chance. I figured I would let things settle before I inquired about the pictures.
About 2 years ago, a descendant of Alonzo Heath contacted me asking if there was any connection. As far as I could tell there was no connection. I am sure we probably have ancestors in common with Alonzo Heath. Nehemiah Heath, father of William, had many brother and sisters who settled in upstate New York who might have had descendants come down to PA. William Heath was the only son to fight in the Civil War. Lorenzo was never an officer and Frank Heath was too young to serve.
I am going to send away for William Heath's pension records. There probably won't be as much or as interesting details as James Shay but would still be good to have an account of the Civil War. Since William was still alive when he started receiving the pension, I assume we will have first hand accounts of the war from William himself.
I then called William Owens who is the grandson of Nancy Shay Owens. He is 88 years old and does not remember too much. He said that he was over in Italy in 1944 when his grandmother passed away. He knew that she came from Missouri but never heard her mention any details about her family or her sister Jane. He also said that he had never heard any details about a Native American Connection. William told me that many of Thomas & Nancy's grandchildren are now deceased. I asked if there might be any other family members who would know anything about the family history but he couldn't think of anyone left alive who could help us.
Unfortunately the Owens line in Coudersport will not be able to help us with the Shay line. I am interested in trying to track down Owens descendants in Bradford County, PA. The family seemed to split in the early 1900's with half the children moving to Bradford County and the other children remaining in Potter County.
Also there might be descendants of Bessie Shay. She was the only daughter of Silas L. Shay and Delila Chase Roberts. I am convinced that Silas L. Shay is the reason that Nancy & Jane came to Sweden Township. I believe Silas L. & James M. Shay were brothers, children of Peter Shay & Satira/Sophronia Sutton.
Bessie Shay, (1885-1958) in Sweden Township, married William Manley in 1902. They had two children, Don Manley (1903-1955) and Roena Daisy Manley. Bessie was divorced from William Manley in the 1910's and made a living as a housekeeper. I have the contact information to Jonathan Snyder who is a 3rd great grandson of Delila Chase Roberts Shay, from her first marriage to Benjamin Roberts. I know its a stretch but he might remember family history about Delila's second marriage to Silas L. Shay or perhaps of Silas having nieces that stayed with the family in the 1880's.
I'll let you know what I come up with.
***************************************************
Happy New Year to you and your family.
I don't remember the individual that I sent letters to but I sent them to the house where Nancy Shay lived at one time. I think it was the husband of a grand-child but I figured he would have been in his 80s. Perhaps, we can check the county office and check to see who owns the house.
Aunt Georgie's daughter Joan told me to tell both you and Justin that Aunt Georgie really enjoyed talking to Justin on the phone as well as your visit. (I'm positive that we will get to see and/or have any pictures that they find - once things settle down.)
I did go home for the holiday break and had a chance to see my Aunt Edie and Uncle Roy. She brought out boxes of pictures for us to look at. There were some pictures of Albert and his family, and a few others. Her son-in-law has agreed to scan several pictures that we set aside and said we would like copies of. I will send you copies when I get the CD. Her daughter and son seem really interested in all the family stuff.
The family seems to be getting really excited about our heritage. Aunt Edie had done a lot of research on the Seeleys as well as the Wood connection. She mentioned that there was a statue of a Heath in Gettysburg -- do you know anything about this? I put down the name Alonzo Heath with a question mark in my notes ... next time I will take a recorder. My sister said perhaps it was Lorenzo but I told her I didn't think so.
I've been updating some of my tree information from Aunt Edie's research. I've been also trying to find info regarding my maternal grandfather. He was Curtis Wood s/o George and Philena Button Wood. He was born in Academy Corners but George and Philena lived at one time in Canisteo, NY. He was married (I'm assuming) to a Lillian Williams sometime around 1913 and had a son from that relationship Dellis William Wood who was born in Geneva, NY.
My mother use to tell the story that her mother found Dellis on the door step one morning - he was about 6 years of age. Dellis lived from that point on with his dad and my grandmother. I've located a Lillian Williams in Canisteo in 1910 but nothing from that point on. I'm now combing the cemetery listings for Canisteo and Geneva.
We joke that my hobby is looking for dead people.
Hope all is well with your family and will talk later.
*****************************************************
I was glad to have visited Georgie when I had the chance. I figured I would let things settle before I inquired about the pictures.
About 2 years ago, a descendant of Alonzo Heath contacted me asking if there was any connection. As far as I could tell there was no connection. I am sure we probably have ancestors in common with Alonzo Heath. Nehemiah Heath, father of William, had many brother and sisters who settled in upstate New York who might have had descendants come down to PA. William Heath was the only son to fight in the Civil War. Lorenzo was never an officer and Frank Heath was too young to serve.
I am going to send away for William Heath's pension records. There probably won't be as much or as interesting details as James Shay but would still be good to have an account of the Civil War. Since William was still alive when he started receiving the pension, I assume we will have first hand accounts of the war from William himself.
December 13, 2008 - Aunt Georgie
Aunt Georgie passed away this morning around 9:00 am. The details for calling hours and service are not set yet but will most likely be Tuesday or Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8.
**************************************
My condolences to the Seeley Family. I am glad I had a chance to have met her this past year. I remember my grandmother speaking fondly of Georgie and her husband Bill. I placed a call to my Uncle Justin and told him that I would call with further details. I think he plans to attend one of the services.
***************************************
The calling hours will be: Wednesday - 2-4 and 6-8 with the funeral service held after the evening hours.
Here's her obit:
Georgie Z. Seeley
SEELEY, Georgie Z. Age 88, of County Route 4 in Campbell, died Saturday, December 13, 2008, at her home surrounded by family. Georgie was born in Gladstone, Manitoba, Canada on January 7, 1920 to Harlin and Marie (Layton) Long. She married William Seeley in Chambers, NY on March 17, 1940 and was preceded in death by him on February 13, 1999. She and her husband owned and operated a dairy farm for over 68 years. She was a graduate of Campbell Central School (1938). Georgie had the ability to make each member of her family, from children to great-grandchildren, feel special and involved herself with them as a 4-H and Girl Scout leader. She was a member of the Steuben County Farm Bureau and worked on the Campbell Election Board. She will be long remembered for her wonderful homemade pickles and jams which she shared with everyone. Her survivors include a son, Ralph (Frances) Seeley of Campbell; four daughters, Joan Gardiner of Piscataway, NJ, Lorraine (James) Tubbs of Painted Post, Patricia Woodard of Kannapolis, NC, and Cynthia (Steve) Seeley-Taylor of Matthews, NC; one sister, Beulah Morse of Marilla, NY; nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter, several nieces and nephews. Georgie was predeceased by her brothers, Nigil, William, and Ralph Long; and by a sister, Marilyn Prosick. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 17th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 17 W. Pulteney Street in Corning, where funeral services will follow calling hours at 8:00 p.m. with the Reverend Theodore Brennan officiating. Burial will be in Coopers Plains Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Campbell Savona Boosters Club, c/o Jeff Allen, PO Box 414, Savona, NY 14879, or to Southern Tier Hospice & Palliative Care, 11751 East Corning Road, Corning, NY 14830.
**************************************
My condolences to the Seeley Family. I am glad I had a chance to have met her this past year. I remember my grandmother speaking fondly of Georgie and her husband Bill. I placed a call to my Uncle Justin and told him that I would call with further details. I think he plans to attend one of the services.
***************************************
The calling hours will be: Wednesday - 2-4 and 6-8 with the funeral service held after the evening hours.
Here's her obit:
Georgie Z. Seeley
SEELEY, Georgie Z. Age 88, of County Route 4 in Campbell, died Saturday, December 13, 2008, at her home surrounded by family. Georgie was born in Gladstone, Manitoba, Canada on January 7, 1920 to Harlin and Marie (Layton) Long. She married William Seeley in Chambers, NY on March 17, 1940 and was preceded in death by him on February 13, 1999. She and her husband owned and operated a dairy farm for over 68 years. She was a graduate of Campbell Central School (1938). Georgie had the ability to make each member of her family, from children to great-grandchildren, feel special and involved herself with them as a 4-H and Girl Scout leader. She was a member of the Steuben County Farm Bureau and worked on the Campbell Election Board. She will be long remembered for her wonderful homemade pickles and jams which she shared with everyone. Her survivors include a son, Ralph (Frances) Seeley of Campbell; four daughters, Joan Gardiner of Piscataway, NJ, Lorraine (James) Tubbs of Painted Post, Patricia Woodard of Kannapolis, NC, and Cynthia (Steve) Seeley-Taylor of Matthews, NC; one sister, Beulah Morse of Marilla, NY; nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter, several nieces and nephews. Georgie was predeceased by her brothers, Nigil, William, and Ralph Long; and by a sister, Marilyn Prosick. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 17th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 17 W. Pulteney Street in Corning, where funeral services will follow calling hours at 8:00 p.m. with the Reverend Theodore Brennan officiating. Burial will be in Coopers Plains Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Campbell Savona Boosters Club, c/o Jeff Allen, PO Box 414, Savona, NY 14879, or to Southern Tier Hospice & Palliative Care, 11751 East Corning Road, Corning, NY 14830.
December 9, 2008 - Aunt Georgie / Owens
just heard that Aunt Georgie isn't doing too well.
**************************************
That is unfortunate about Georgie...I'll keep her family in my thoughts.
I contacted Cathy Owens in Coudersport who is the ex-wife of John Owens. John is the great-grandson of Nancy Owens and Cathy told me that John Owens has actually done genealogy research on his branch of the family. I am going to give John a call later to see what info he might have.
***************************************************
That's great. Keep me posted. I'm hoping to see Aunt Edie very soon - Uncle Roy was taken to the hospital the weekend after Thanksgiving but is home now. I'm trying to coordinate some visits to Aunt Margaret as well. I
**************************************
That is unfortunate about Georgie...I'll keep her family in my thoughts.
I contacted Cathy Owens in Coudersport who is the ex-wife of John Owens. John is the great-grandson of Nancy Owens and Cathy told me that John Owens has actually done genealogy research on his branch of the family. I am going to give John a call later to see what info he might have.
***************************************************
That's great. Keep me posted. I'm hoping to see Aunt Edie very soon - Uncle Roy was taken to the hospital the weekend after Thanksgiving but is home now. I'm trying to coordinate some visits to Aunt Margaret as well. I
November 24, 2008 - Owens
I spoke with my Uncle Justin last night and he remembered his grandpa George talking about the Owens family. He said that the baseball player Jim Owens is a distant cousin and descendant of Nancy Owens. I looked up Jim Owens and sure enough he was born and raised in McKean County where several of Nancy's children settled. Jim is a great grandson of Nancy. He would be a 3rd cousin to us.
I am going to call up William Owens tonight and hopefully have some luck. The fact that he still lives on his own at age 87 is a little promising...i am keeping my fingers crossed. Justin has volunteered to meet William if William is interested. Justin lives 1 mile from Vine St in Coudersport.
**********************I think that Rossman may be living at the Vine Address as well. Hopefully, we will make a connection with the Owens. I think they will definitely have some info - it's just making that initial connection.
November 21, 2008 - Harry Owens
Last night, I found Harry Owens middle name "Monroe" from his Florida Death Index. I really think that descendants of Nancy will be able to help us out tremendously.
November 19, 2008 - Lorow Website
Not sure if I added to my last email that Thomas Lorow was listed on the census records with Thomas and Nancy Owens - as their grandson.
****************************
You have mentioned awhile back that William F. Lorow was a grandson of Thomas & Nancy Owens and was listed with them in the 1930 census. He was listed as 9 years old. I looked up and found a William F. Owens living on Vine St. in Coudersport age 87. That would make him born in 1921. Vine St was the last residence of Nancy Owens. I believe that this is their grandson who was William Lorow. He is probably still living in the same house.
I think you mentioned before that you sent a letter. I think we are going to need to place a phone call to the residence. Let me know if you plan to call him or if you prefer I place the call. I will keep my fingers crossed that he is receptive and still has an intact memory. He may be one of the few people still living who could answer our questions about the Shay/Mayberry line.
*******************************
I sent my correspondence to Clayton Rossman who wasl also living on Vice Street. He was the husband of Nancy Lee Owens do Orville and Mildred Owens and gd of Thomas and Nancy Shay.
If you don't mind, I'll let you place the call.
I have found some old maps of PA counties and want to mark out where Wm, Frank, Ira all lived. I'll try to send you copies of the old maps.
****************************
Subject: Will of Addie AMIDON LOROWAuthor: KellyMTaftKrauseDate: Wednesday, March 17, 1999Classification: WillSurnames: AMIDON, LOROW, WRIGHT, MURRAY, WATSON
SURROGATE'S COURT COUNTY OF STEUBEN STATE OF NEW YORK
In the Matter of the Estate of Addie M. LOROW, deceasedPrepared by Shults and Shults Attorneys and Counselors, Hornell, New York
WHEREAS, Addie M. Lorow, late of the city of Hornell, Steuben County, New York, deceased, died on or about the 20th day of December, 1933, and thereafter, and on the 14th day of October, 1935, Letters of Administration upon the goods, chattels and credits which were of the said deceased were duly granted unto Earl F. Lorow, who duly qualifed as such administrator, and entered upon the discharge of his duties as such;
AND WHEREAS, the undersigned, Sarah Wright, Burrell Lorow, Earl F. Lorow, William E. Lorow, Albert Lorow and Agnes Murray are all the children of the said Addie M. Lorow, deceased, and all the persons entitled to a distributive share in her estate;
AND WHEREAS, each of the undersigned knows and represents that all creditors of the estate of the said Addie M. Lorow, deceased, have been paid in full, and that there are no outstanding claims against said estate for obligations which the said Addie M. Lorow owed at the time of her death;
AND WHEREAS, each fo the undersigned knows and represents that the funeral expenses of the said Addie M. Lorow have been fully paid, satisfied and discharged by one or more the undersigned, from the proceeds of insurance money received by them for that purpose;
AND WHEREAS, the only asset which has come into the hands of Earl F. Lorow, as administrator of the estate of the said Addie M. Lorow, deceased, is her 1/66th distributed share of the estate of Fannie M. Watson, deceased, which amounts to the sum of $555.28, and which has been paid to him by Horace Mizell, as Receiver of the Citizens National Bank and Trust Company of Hornell, NY, which was the administrator of the Will annexed of the estate of the said Fannie C. Watson, deceased, and said payment has been made pursuant to the decree of final judicial settlement granted by the Surrogate of the County of Steuben, in the estate of the said Fannie C. Watson, deceased;
Will goes on...
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the undersigned, being all the persons entitled to distributive shares in and to the estate of Addie M. Lorow, deceased, do, and each of us, acting individually and without regard to the execution of these presents by the others, does hereby remise, release and forever discharge Earl F. Lorow as administrator of the estate of Addie M. Lorow, deceased, and Sarah Wright and Anna E. Lorow, the sureties upon his bond as such administrator, of and from any and every claim, demand, action.... etc.
The Attorney received $100, each child received $75.88.
Address at that time: Sarah Wright, RD 2, Addison, NYBurrell Lorow, 27 Clay Street, Hornell, NYEarl F. Lorow, 37 Clay Street, Hornell, NYWilliam F. Lorow 31 Clay Street, Hornell, NYAlbert Lorow, 99 1/2 Buffalo Street, Hornell, NYAgnes Murray, 1 Dennis Ave., Hornell, NY
****************************
You have mentioned awhile back that William F. Lorow was a grandson of Thomas & Nancy Owens and was listed with them in the 1930 census. He was listed as 9 years old. I looked up and found a William F. Owens living on Vine St. in Coudersport age 87. That would make him born in 1921. Vine St was the last residence of Nancy Owens. I believe that this is their grandson who was William Lorow. He is probably still living in the same house.
I think you mentioned before that you sent a letter. I think we are going to need to place a phone call to the residence. Let me know if you plan to call him or if you prefer I place the call. I will keep my fingers crossed that he is receptive and still has an intact memory. He may be one of the few people still living who could answer our questions about the Shay/Mayberry line.
*******************************
I sent my correspondence to Clayton Rossman who wasl also living on Vice Street. He was the husband of Nancy Lee Owens do Orville and Mildred Owens and gd of Thomas and Nancy Shay.
If you don't mind, I'll let you place the call.
I have found some old maps of PA counties and want to mark out where Wm, Frank, Ira all lived. I'll try to send you copies of the old maps.
****************************
Subject: Will of Addie AMIDON LOROWAuthor: KellyMTaftKrauseDate: Wednesday, March 17, 1999Classification: WillSurnames: AMIDON, LOROW, WRIGHT, MURRAY, WATSON
SURROGATE'S COURT COUNTY OF STEUBEN STATE OF NEW YORK
In the Matter of the Estate of Addie M. LOROW, deceasedPrepared by Shults and Shults Attorneys and Counselors, Hornell, New York
WHEREAS, Addie M. Lorow, late of the city of Hornell, Steuben County, New York, deceased, died on or about the 20th day of December, 1933, and thereafter, and on the 14th day of October, 1935, Letters of Administration upon the goods, chattels and credits which were of the said deceased were duly granted unto Earl F. Lorow, who duly qualifed as such administrator, and entered upon the discharge of his duties as such;
AND WHEREAS, the undersigned, Sarah Wright, Burrell Lorow, Earl F. Lorow, William E. Lorow, Albert Lorow and Agnes Murray are all the children of the said Addie M. Lorow, deceased, and all the persons entitled to a distributive share in her estate;
AND WHEREAS, each of the undersigned knows and represents that all creditors of the estate of the said Addie M. Lorow, deceased, have been paid in full, and that there are no outstanding claims against said estate for obligations which the said Addie M. Lorow owed at the time of her death;
AND WHEREAS, each fo the undersigned knows and represents that the funeral expenses of the said Addie M. Lorow have been fully paid, satisfied and discharged by one or more the undersigned, from the proceeds of insurance money received by them for that purpose;
AND WHEREAS, the only asset which has come into the hands of Earl F. Lorow, as administrator of the estate of the said Addie M. Lorow, deceased, is her 1/66th distributed share of the estate of Fannie M. Watson, deceased, which amounts to the sum of $555.28, and which has been paid to him by Horace Mizell, as Receiver of the Citizens National Bank and Trust Company of Hornell, NY, which was the administrator of the Will annexed of the estate of the said Fannie C. Watson, deceased, and said payment has been made pursuant to the decree of final judicial settlement granted by the Surrogate of the County of Steuben, in the estate of the said Fannie C. Watson, deceased;
Will goes on...
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the undersigned, being all the persons entitled to distributive shares in and to the estate of Addie M. Lorow, deceased, do, and each of us, acting individually and without regard to the execution of these presents by the others, does hereby remise, release and forever discharge Earl F. Lorow as administrator of the estate of Addie M. Lorow, deceased, and Sarah Wright and Anna E. Lorow, the sureties upon his bond as such administrator, of and from any and every claim, demand, action.... etc.
The Attorney received $100, each child received $75.88.
Address at that time: Sarah Wright, RD 2, Addison, NYBurrell Lorow, 27 Clay Street, Hornell, NYEarl F. Lorow, 37 Clay Street, Hornell, NYWilliam F. Lorow 31 Clay Street, Hornell, NYAlbert Lorow, 99 1/2 Buffalo Street, Hornell, NYAgnes Murray, 1 Dennis Ave., Hornell, NY
November 18, 2008 - Lorow -- Amidon -- Shay
Check out this site - came across it looking for info on my Mom's relatives - wasn't there a Lorow in one of the census for the Heath's.??
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Woods/1546/
It also has a link to the Amidon site but it didn't work for me but my computer and the network are having issues tonight.
************************
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Woods/1546/
Lorow Family Home Page
It also has a link to the Amidon site but it didn't work for me but my computer and the network are having issues tonight.
************************
November 16, 2008 - Shay Connection
As I was working on my mother's ancesters - I noticed a Shay/Monroe connection with the Shays in Sweden, Potter County, PA. My grandfather was Curtis Wood, his father George W. Wood, his father Robert Henry Wood. Robert married a Altana (Altena) Bice. Altena was the do John A. Bice and Martha MONROE. Clarissa sister of Altena married a Charles WORDEN - their son Erastus married a Sophia Bailey. He died in 1865 in Civil War. Sophia then married a Michael Snyder so Daniel Snyder and Mary Ann Shay. Mary Ann is the daughter of Richard Shay and Elizabeth Roberts. I haven't traced each lineage out but from looking at the census records for Potter County - there are many many MONROES // SHAYS - so I really think that we may our connection. The Shays were originally in NJ but did move to Livingston/Ontario County in NY and then on to Potter County. The Monroes are in Potter as well as NY - some in Broome County others in Ontario County. It then would make sense to that Nancy came back to this area. She had "family" here.
I still have my tree listed as private but sent an invite as contributor to it.
*************************************************************
After reading everything you wrote I got to researching and think I might have brought us closer to our ancestor James Monroe Shay's family. I have done a lot of research early on with the Shays of Sweden Township and I could never find a connection to Richard Shay's family. All of Richard & Elizabeth's children and grandchildren are accounted for and I cannot find any possible fit to James Shay born. 1836. So I took the family back a generation to Richard's parents Peter Shay & Catherine Bunn. Once again there were no siblings of Richard that I could link James too. I will take a look at Richard's siblings and see if there are children or grandchildren that might have made it to Sweden to live with their cousins and uncle.
There is a Silas L. Shay born 1839 in New York who was living in Sweden, Potter County, PA in the 1880's. He did not live in Potter County before 1880. There are several online family trees that erroneously lists him as the son of Richard & Elizabeth. This is wrong. Richard and Elizabeth already had a son named Silas born in 1813. They would not have had another son by the same name especially when their son that was born in 1813 was still living. Also Elizabeth would have been 48 when giving birth in 1839 which is highly unlikely and the 1850 census does not have Silas living with them.
Richard Shay (1784-1861)
m. Elizabeth Roberts (1791-1871)
Children & Grandchildren
1) Phoebe Shay (1811 - ?)
m. William Carnes
c. Catherine R. Carnes (Born. 1832)
m. Silas Acker
c. Franklin Acker (Born: 1847)
c. Rosina Sidona Acker (Born: 1848)
2) Silas Shay (1813-1899)
m. Abigail Sly
c. Elizabeth Shay (Born: 1837)
3) Mary Ann Shay (1815-1883)
m. Daniel Sanders
c. Frances Sanders (Born: 1836)
c. Andrew J. Sanders (Born: 1838)
c. Michael Sanders (Born: 1840)
c. Jacob Sanders (Born: 1843)
c. Richard Sanders (Born: 1846)
c. Sophronia Ann Sanders (Born: 1849)
c. Benjamin Sanders (Born: 1852)
c. Jonah Sanders (Born: 1855)
4) Catherine Shay (1817-1879)
m. Michael Snyder
c. George W. Snyder (Born: 1836)
c. Mary A. Snyder (Born: 1839)
c. William Snyder (Born: 1840)
c. Hannah E. Snyder (Born: 1845)
c. Ole Mor Snyder (Born: 1852)
5) Elizabeth Shay (1819-?)
6) Henrietta Shay (1820-?)
m. William Clark
7) Rebecca Shay (1823-?)
m. Chase
m. Anthony Haddock
8) Nancy Shay (1826-1887)
m. Harrison Coon
c. Delilah Coon (Born: 1847)
c. Harriet Elizabeth Coon (Born: 1849)
c. Rosina Lina Coon (Born: 1851)
c. Alexander Coon (Born: 1854)
c. Harrison Coon (Born: 1857)
9) Richard Higley Shay (1828-1898)
m. Hannah Glace
c. Michael Jonas Shay (Born: 1854)
c. Esther Elizabeth Shay (Born: 1857)
10) Daniel W. Shay (1831-?)
m. Sarah J. ?
c. Delmer G. Shay (Born: 1858)
11) Sarah Ann Shay (1833-1916)
m. Edward Morris Carpenter
c. Mary Adeline Carpenter (Born: 1854)
c. Rosalia Carpenter (Born: 1855)
c. James B. Carpenter (Born: 1856)
c. Arthur William Carpenter (Born: 1858)
c. Francis Carpenter (Born: 1860)
c. Katie Carpenter (Born: 1863)
c. Jola Carpenter (Born: 1866)
c. Josephine Carpenter (Born: 1868)
c. Silas J. Carpenter (Born: 1870)
c. George S. Carpenter (Born: 1872)
Silas L Shay (1839-1902) - might be a nephew to Richard Shay and grandson of Peter Shay.
m. Amanda ?
m. Delilia Chase Roberts
c. Bessie L. Shay (Born: 1886)
Silas L. Shay was born in New York in February 1839. He is listed as living with Ira & Mary Boughton in the 1860 census in Deerfield, Warren Co., PA. He has a wife named Amanda living with them.
I found a Silas Shay living with Nancy Vanepps and her children in the 1870 census in Alma, Allegany Co., NY. In the 1880 census for Alma, NY, Nancy Vanepps, lives next door to Silas but one of her sons is still living with Silas Shay listed as a nephew. That makes Nancy's maiden name Shay.
I went back and found an 1850 census for Deerfield, Warren Co., PA. Living in the household of Ira & Mary Boughton is Nancy Shay age 18, George Shay age 15 and William Shay age 13. Silas Shay is not listed in that household in 1850. Since Mary Boughton is age 19, I think she is a sister. That probably meant that the Shay children were orphaned and since they were all born in NY then relocated to PA that starts to correlate with what we know about James Shay's life. I think James and Silas could have been working on neighboring farms or possibly living with other relatives in 1850. It is very possible that James is a brother to this family.
Mary Shay Boughton - born in 1831Nancy Shay Vanepps - born in 1832George Shay - born in 1834/1835*James M. Shay ??? - born in 1836William Shay - born in 1837Silas L. Shay - born in 1839.
We know that Silas L. Shay first appeared in Sweden Township between 1880-1884. Nancy & Jane made their way from Missouri to Sweden Township between 1880-1884. I think it is very plausible that Silas was their uncle and he bought a farm and asked them to join him. He married in 1884 in Potter County to Delilah Chase Roberts.
If James was orphaned, he would probably have to go out on his own at a young age and probably lived and worked in Ohio for some years before heading to Missouri. One final possible fit, My great grandfather George use to talk about 3 relatives of his who fought in the Civil War. Only 2 are accounted for. His father William Heath fought and his grandfather James Shay fought. Silas L. Shay also fought in the Civil War and if he was a great uncle to George and lived close by then he could be the 3rd relative that my great grandfather use to talk about.
Perhaps Silas Shay was a friend of William Heath and this might be how William & Jane got together. Silas could have set his friend up with his niece. Let me know what you think.
*********************************
I don't have my notes here but I "think" I remember 2 Heaths living with some Monroes in the 1850 census for Bingham, Potter, PA. I also came across these 2 WW reg cards for James Monroe Shay - one in PA and the other in Buffalo, NY. Probably no connection but a tiny maybe... The Woods/Monroes/Wordens appear to have come from NJ to Sparta NY and/or Ossian NY then on Potter County. I really think the Monroe was most likely his mother's maiden name. I do know that the Monroes, Wordens and Woods married the into the Shay's. I did find it interesting though there were a couple of websites for the Bailey that married the E S Worden - some had her being the do Mary Ann Shay and Daniel Snyder - others had Mary Ann Shay and Daniel Sanders.
I still have my tree listed as private but sent an invite as contributor to it.
*************************************************************
After reading everything you wrote I got to researching and think I might have brought us closer to our ancestor James Monroe Shay's family. I have done a lot of research early on with the Shays of Sweden Township and I could never find a connection to Richard Shay's family. All of Richard & Elizabeth's children and grandchildren are accounted for and I cannot find any possible fit to James Shay born. 1836. So I took the family back a generation to Richard's parents Peter Shay & Catherine Bunn. Once again there were no siblings of Richard that I could link James too. I will take a look at Richard's siblings and see if there are children or grandchildren that might have made it to Sweden to live with their cousins and uncle.
There is a Silas L. Shay born 1839 in New York who was living in Sweden, Potter County, PA in the 1880's. He did not live in Potter County before 1880. There are several online family trees that erroneously lists him as the son of Richard & Elizabeth. This is wrong. Richard and Elizabeth already had a son named Silas born in 1813. They would not have had another son by the same name especially when their son that was born in 1813 was still living. Also Elizabeth would have been 48 when giving birth in 1839 which is highly unlikely and the 1850 census does not have Silas living with them.
Richard Shay (1784-1861)
m. Elizabeth Roberts (1791-1871)
Children & Grandchildren
1) Phoebe Shay (1811 - ?)
m. William Carnes
c. Catherine R. Carnes (Born. 1832)
m. Silas Acker
c. Franklin Acker (Born: 1847)
c. Rosina Sidona Acker (Born: 1848)
2) Silas Shay (1813-1899)
m. Abigail Sly
c. Elizabeth Shay (Born: 1837)
3) Mary Ann Shay (1815-1883)
m. Daniel Sanders
c. Frances Sanders (Born: 1836)
c. Andrew J. Sanders (Born: 1838)
c. Michael Sanders (Born: 1840)
c. Jacob Sanders (Born: 1843)
c. Richard Sanders (Born: 1846)
c. Sophronia Ann Sanders (Born: 1849)
c. Benjamin Sanders (Born: 1852)
c. Jonah Sanders (Born: 1855)
4) Catherine Shay (1817-1879)
m. Michael Snyder
c. George W. Snyder (Born: 1836)
c. Mary A. Snyder (Born: 1839)
c. William Snyder (Born: 1840)
c. Hannah E. Snyder (Born: 1845)
c. Ole Mor Snyder (Born: 1852)
5) Elizabeth Shay (1819-?)
6) Henrietta Shay (1820-?)
m. William Clark
7) Rebecca Shay (1823-?)
m. Chase
m. Anthony Haddock
8) Nancy Shay (1826-1887)
m. Harrison Coon
c. Delilah Coon (Born: 1847)
c. Harriet Elizabeth Coon (Born: 1849)
c. Rosina Lina Coon (Born: 1851)
c. Alexander Coon (Born: 1854)
c. Harrison Coon (Born: 1857)
9) Richard Higley Shay (1828-1898)
m. Hannah Glace
c. Michael Jonas Shay (Born: 1854)
c. Esther Elizabeth Shay (Born: 1857)
10) Daniel W. Shay (1831-?)
m. Sarah J. ?
c. Delmer G. Shay (Born: 1858)
11) Sarah Ann Shay (1833-1916)
m. Edward Morris Carpenter
c. Mary Adeline Carpenter (Born: 1854)
c. Rosalia Carpenter (Born: 1855)
c. James B. Carpenter (Born: 1856)
c. Arthur William Carpenter (Born: 1858)
c. Francis Carpenter (Born: 1860)
c. Katie Carpenter (Born: 1863)
c. Jola Carpenter (Born: 1866)
c. Josephine Carpenter (Born: 1868)
c. Silas J. Carpenter (Born: 1870)
c. George S. Carpenter (Born: 1872)
Silas L Shay (1839-1902) - might be a nephew to Richard Shay and grandson of Peter Shay.
m. Amanda ?
m. Delilia Chase Roberts
c. Bessie L. Shay (Born: 1886)
Silas L. Shay was born in New York in February 1839. He is listed as living with Ira & Mary Boughton in the 1860 census in Deerfield, Warren Co., PA. He has a wife named Amanda living with them.
I found a Silas Shay living with Nancy Vanepps and her children in the 1870 census in Alma, Allegany Co., NY. In the 1880 census for Alma, NY, Nancy Vanepps, lives next door to Silas but one of her sons is still living with Silas Shay listed as a nephew. That makes Nancy's maiden name Shay.
I went back and found an 1850 census for Deerfield, Warren Co., PA. Living in the household of Ira & Mary Boughton is Nancy Shay age 18, George Shay age 15 and William Shay age 13. Silas Shay is not listed in that household in 1850. Since Mary Boughton is age 19, I think she is a sister. That probably meant that the Shay children were orphaned and since they were all born in NY then relocated to PA that starts to correlate with what we know about James Shay's life. I think James and Silas could have been working on neighboring farms or possibly living with other relatives in 1850. It is very possible that James is a brother to this family.
Mary Shay Boughton - born in 1831Nancy Shay Vanepps - born in 1832George Shay - born in 1834/1835*James M. Shay ??? - born in 1836William Shay - born in 1837Silas L. Shay - born in 1839.
We know that Silas L. Shay first appeared in Sweden Township between 1880-1884. Nancy & Jane made their way from Missouri to Sweden Township between 1880-1884. I think it is very plausible that Silas was their uncle and he bought a farm and asked them to join him. He married in 1884 in Potter County to Delilah Chase Roberts.
If James was orphaned, he would probably have to go out on his own at a young age and probably lived and worked in Ohio for some years before heading to Missouri. One final possible fit, My great grandfather George use to talk about 3 relatives of his who fought in the Civil War. Only 2 are accounted for. His father William Heath fought and his grandfather James Shay fought. Silas L. Shay also fought in the Civil War and if he was a great uncle to George and lived close by then he could be the 3rd relative that my great grandfather use to talk about.
Perhaps Silas Shay was a friend of William Heath and this might be how William & Jane got together. Silas could have set his friend up with his niece. Let me know what you think.
*********************************
I don't have my notes here but I "think" I remember 2 Heaths living with some Monroes in the 1850 census for Bingham, Potter, PA. I also came across these 2 WW reg cards for James Monroe Shay - one in PA and the other in Buffalo, NY. Probably no connection but a tiny maybe... The Woods/Monroes/Wordens appear to have come from NJ to Sparta NY and/or Ossian NY then on Potter County. I really think the Monroe was most likely his mother's maiden name. I do know that the Monroes, Wordens and Woods married the into the Shay's. I did find it interesting though there were a couple of websites for the Bailey that married the E S Worden - some had her being the do Mary Ann Shay and Daniel Snyder - others had Mary Ann Shay and Daniel Sanders.
October 23, 2008 - Stephen Peal and Ashley Connection
I've started to go through my notes to find the reference to Linsey Rosco - I haven't found it yet but I did come across something and wasn't sure that I ever mentioned it to you before. When I was researching Stephen Peal and his family -- I came across a bio reference that he and his brother came to MO - after the Civil War - I then used the search on ancestry and came up with a couple of family trees: For the most part, the trees had the same info: Stephen Peal's Father was Stanley and his Mother was Annis Gurganus they had: Eli, Charlotte (Charity), Stephen, Hymon, Celia, Jane, Stanley, Chrissy Stephen was born 1840 in Martin Co., NC - he died in Scott County MO in 1896 but is buried in NC in the family cemetery. Stephen's brother Stanley returned to NC. HOWEVER, in most trees there is a reference to another child a "William Ashley" or "BILLY" born in 1850 and died in 1892. Knowing that Jane Withrow married her sister's husband - do you think she could have married a "cousin".... Also, I came across an OBIT for Franklin Withrow - he was a cousin to Jane Peal.
**********************************************************
There is always a possibility to a connection between the Peals & Ashleys in North Carolina. If Stephen Peal's family didn't arrive into Scott County, Missouri until after the civil war then it might be a distant connection. James Ashley and William Ashley who I believe were brothers purchased land along Mayfield Creek in McCracken/Ballard Counties in the 1820's. James, his wife and children eventually left the area. By the time the Peals entered the area, William Ashley was dead and most of his children were grown, some were even grandparents by the 1860's.
I do not think William Ashley's children probably grew up knowing their relatives from North Carolina. Travel was not easy back then but you never know how much letter writing took place. Since the identity of William Ashley's first wife is unknown...she could always have had a Peal connection.
I think that Rebecca Peal did marry a cousin. Her first husband Joseph Brown was a nephew of Ezekiel Ashley. Ezekiel was born in 1835 to William Ashley and his second wife Ann Billington. That would make Ezekiel & Mary Ashley half siblings. I believe that Joseph Brown's mother is a sister of Ezekiel & Mary. If we assume that Joseph Brown might have been a few years older than Rebecca and that his mother had to be older than 15 when she had him...Joseph Brown's mother was probably born in the 1820's, also a product of William Ashley's first marriage.
Also since Frederick Mayberry owned 160 acres of land along Mayfield Creek in McCracken/Ballard Counties I believe that he might have been had a neighboring farm to the Ashley family which would put Frederick's son and William's daughter in close proximity to meet and marry. I wouldn't be surprised if Mary Ashley and her small daughters lived with the Mayberry family during her marriage to Frederick's son. Also that would explain why she left them with their grandparents when she remarried.
I do not know what became of Mary Ashley's first husband. I assume he died young...sometime circa 1844-1845 probably near the age of 25-30. Although he could have taken off, I will assume he just died. Looking at the 1830 census and 1840 census, I have concluded that there were at least 3 sons and 4 daughters that were born to Frederick & Elizabeth Mayberry between 1815-1835. There were probably more children born that might not have survived to adulthood. The 1850 census has many children living with them. 1 Child with the last name Smith, 4 children with the last name Allen and 2 children with the last name Mayberry. Given the ages of Frederick & Elizabeth...I truly think these are all grandchildren. The Smith and Allen children being children of Frederick's daughters.
Catherine Clingman Mayberry was living with her parents in 1850. Her two sons Frederick age 12 and George age 4 were living with them as well. I believe her husband George Mayberry was also deceased by this time.
Also in Ballard Co., KY, there was a boy named James Mayberry age 6 living with Wiley Sams who was a widower with 7 children ranging in age of 4 to 24 years old. He is the only Mayberry child. I do not know where he fits. I do not think he is the son of George and Catherine Mayberry. Also Mary Ashley had a son named James with Frederick Withrow in 1847. I do not think she would have two different sons born 3-4 years apart and name them both James. So I have to wonder if there is a 4th son of Frederick & Elizabeth that had a child named James. Also there might be a connection to Wiley Sams. He could have had a daughter that married a unknown Mayberry or given his age, he could be a brother of Elizabeth Mayberry making him a great uncle to James Mayberry.
I will have to look into the Sams family to see if there is any chance that Elizabeth was a Sams. With all these grandchildren passed around, I get the impression that Frederick & Elizabeth Mayberry probably outlived most of their children. Given how rural and scarcely populated the area was and also lack of education and health probably shortened many of their life spans. Also I wonder if Frederick's sons and sons in-law held risky occupations like mining or working on the Mississippi river. Any big floods in the area during the 1840's could have been devastating to the economy and well being of Ballard County and the surrounding area.
I will have to look into natural disasters of the area in that time frame. Since the 1840's seems to be a decade that so many people connected to the Mayberrys vanish or died...I suspect famine or a disaster might be a result.
**********************************
You totally amaze me. I would never be able to collect all this info and be able to relate it to someone else. Do you think the email addresses are still current for the individuals that were in the queries that I sent -- perhaps they may have some knowledge of a Mayberry.
***********************************
Many months ago I did find the Ashley inquiries and sent an email to Barb who was connected to James Ashley's family. I never got a response from her. It wouldn't hurt to send another email.
Great Flood of 1844
Considered at the time to be "one of the most memorable floors ever known upon the Mississippi by civilized man. There was immense injury sustained by the settlements, towns and plantations both in the upper valleys and in the delta. The whole population living in the lowlands throughout the region like others living in the lower Mississippi River Valley, fled to the hills; vast numbers of stock of every kind were destroyed, and immense damage done to farms and settlements. Many suffering families were taken to their graves by either drowning or by the resulting famine. Such was the condition of the inhabitants of the arable (crop-growing) bottoms of the Mississippi from the mouth of the Ohio 700 miles up to Galena, up the Missouri for 800 miles, up the Illinois for 300 miles and up the Wabash for 400 miles." - Concordia Sentinel
Ballard County, Kentucky would have been right in the middle of this. The confluence of the Ohio & Mississippi Rivers meet there. Cairo, Illinois which boarders Ballard County is considered the line for the Upper & Lower Mississippi River. I believe this flood could have had a devastating effect on the Mayberry family in 1844 and the years to follow.
**********************************************************
There is always a possibility to a connection between the Peals & Ashleys in North Carolina. If Stephen Peal's family didn't arrive into Scott County, Missouri until after the civil war then it might be a distant connection. James Ashley and William Ashley who I believe were brothers purchased land along Mayfield Creek in McCracken/Ballard Counties in the 1820's. James, his wife and children eventually left the area. By the time the Peals entered the area, William Ashley was dead and most of his children were grown, some were even grandparents by the 1860's.
I do not think William Ashley's children probably grew up knowing their relatives from North Carolina. Travel was not easy back then but you never know how much letter writing took place. Since the identity of William Ashley's first wife is unknown...she could always have had a Peal connection.
I think that Rebecca Peal did marry a cousin. Her first husband Joseph Brown was a nephew of Ezekiel Ashley. Ezekiel was born in 1835 to William Ashley and his second wife Ann Billington. That would make Ezekiel & Mary Ashley half siblings. I believe that Joseph Brown's mother is a sister of Ezekiel & Mary. If we assume that Joseph Brown might have been a few years older than Rebecca and that his mother had to be older than 15 when she had him...Joseph Brown's mother was probably born in the 1820's, also a product of William Ashley's first marriage.
Also since Frederick Mayberry owned 160 acres of land along Mayfield Creek in McCracken/Ballard Counties I believe that he might have been had a neighboring farm to the Ashley family which would put Frederick's son and William's daughter in close proximity to meet and marry. I wouldn't be surprised if Mary Ashley and her small daughters lived with the Mayberry family during her marriage to Frederick's son. Also that would explain why she left them with their grandparents when she remarried.
I do not know what became of Mary Ashley's first husband. I assume he died young...sometime circa 1844-1845 probably near the age of 25-30. Although he could have taken off, I will assume he just died. Looking at the 1830 census and 1840 census, I have concluded that there were at least 3 sons and 4 daughters that were born to Frederick & Elizabeth Mayberry between 1815-1835. There were probably more children born that might not have survived to adulthood. The 1850 census has many children living with them. 1 Child with the last name Smith, 4 children with the last name Allen and 2 children with the last name Mayberry. Given the ages of Frederick & Elizabeth...I truly think these are all grandchildren. The Smith and Allen children being children of Frederick's daughters.
Catherine Clingman Mayberry was living with her parents in 1850. Her two sons Frederick age 12 and George age 4 were living with them as well. I believe her husband George Mayberry was also deceased by this time.
Also in Ballard Co., KY, there was a boy named James Mayberry age 6 living with Wiley Sams who was a widower with 7 children ranging in age of 4 to 24 years old. He is the only Mayberry child. I do not know where he fits. I do not think he is the son of George and Catherine Mayberry. Also Mary Ashley had a son named James with Frederick Withrow in 1847. I do not think she would have two different sons born 3-4 years apart and name them both James. So I have to wonder if there is a 4th son of Frederick & Elizabeth that had a child named James. Also there might be a connection to Wiley Sams. He could have had a daughter that married a unknown Mayberry or given his age, he could be a brother of Elizabeth Mayberry making him a great uncle to James Mayberry.
I will have to look into the Sams family to see if there is any chance that Elizabeth was a Sams. With all these grandchildren passed around, I get the impression that Frederick & Elizabeth Mayberry probably outlived most of their children. Given how rural and scarcely populated the area was and also lack of education and health probably shortened many of their life spans. Also I wonder if Frederick's sons and sons in-law held risky occupations like mining or working on the Mississippi river. Any big floods in the area during the 1840's could have been devastating to the economy and well being of Ballard County and the surrounding area.
I will have to look into natural disasters of the area in that time frame. Since the 1840's seems to be a decade that so many people connected to the Mayberrys vanish or died...I suspect famine or a disaster might be a result.
**********************************
You totally amaze me. I would never be able to collect all this info and be able to relate it to someone else. Do you think the email addresses are still current for the individuals that were in the queries that I sent -- perhaps they may have some knowledge of a Mayberry.
***********************************
Many months ago I did find the Ashley inquiries and sent an email to Barb who was connected to James Ashley's family. I never got a response from her. It wouldn't hurt to send another email.
Great Flood of 1844
Considered at the time to be "one of the most memorable floors ever known upon the Mississippi by civilized man. There was immense injury sustained by the settlements, towns and plantations both in the upper valleys and in the delta. The whole population living in the lowlands throughout the region like others living in the lower Mississippi River Valley, fled to the hills; vast numbers of stock of every kind were destroyed, and immense damage done to farms and settlements. Many suffering families were taken to their graves by either drowning or by the resulting famine. Such was the condition of the inhabitants of the arable (crop-growing) bottoms of the Mississippi from the mouth of the Ohio 700 miles up to Galena, up the Missouri for 800 miles, up the Illinois for 300 miles and up the Wabash for 400 miles." - Concordia Sentinel
Ballard County, Kentucky would have been right in the middle of this. The confluence of the Ohio & Mississippi Rivers meet there. Cairo, Illinois which boarders Ballard County is considered the line for the Upper & Lower Mississippi River. I believe this flood could have had a devastating effect on the Mayberry family in 1844 and the years to follow.
October 22, 2008 - Info on Frederick
I found the attached info and put it into a word document. There was a Frederick Mayberry that bought or was deeded land from a Lyon in NC. This may play in because I believe that Mary Ashley's ancestors may have come from NC or there abouts.
*****************************************************
I found the info interesting...however I do not think this is our ancestor. Attached is the following info I have of Frederick Mayberry that purchased land in Wilkes Co., NC.
Frederick Maberry married Elisabeth Watkins in Warren Co., NC on March 24, 1790. Frederick migrated to Wilkes Co., NC and then to Overton Co., TN. He had a son, Frederick, Jr. who married Rachel Barnes. Frederick, Jr. & Rachel remained in the Overton/Clay Co. areas of TN.
Mary Ashley's father was born around 1782 in North Carolina according to the 1850 census. The 1880 census for Mary lists her parents being from Mississippi. The 1880 census for her brother Edward Ashley lists the parents birthplace as Louisiana.
Mary and Edward were born in Louisiana. There is a good chance that their birth mother was born in Mississippi or Louisiana. I do think the father was indeed born in North Carolina. I do not think there was any Ashley connection to the Mayberry Family till after 1830 in Ballard Co., Kentucky. I think the only connection is through a marriage between Frederick's son and William's daughter.
*****************************************************
I found the info interesting...however I do not think this is our ancestor. Attached is the following info I have of Frederick Mayberry that purchased land in Wilkes Co., NC.
Frederick Maberry married Elisabeth Watkins in Warren Co., NC on March 24, 1790. Frederick migrated to Wilkes Co., NC and then to Overton Co., TN. He had a son, Frederick, Jr. who married Rachel Barnes. Frederick, Jr. & Rachel remained in the Overton/Clay Co. areas of TN.
Mary Ashley's father was born around 1782 in North Carolina according to the 1850 census. The 1880 census for Mary lists her parents being from Mississippi. The 1880 census for her brother Edward Ashley lists the parents birthplace as Louisiana.
Mary and Edward were born in Louisiana. There is a good chance that their birth mother was born in Mississippi or Louisiana. I do think the father was indeed born in North Carolina. I do not think there was any Ashley connection to the Mayberry Family till after 1830 in Ballard Co., Kentucky. I think the only connection is through a marriage between Frederick's son and William's daughter.
October 21, 2008 - Mayberry
Uncle Justin and me are still planning to visit Georgie on Nov 1st. He told me he was going to call her this week to verify this with her. I still have not heard back from the historical society about the cemetery listing. I don't know if they are very small and do not meet often. I will either try and call or get another letter out to them. Also since I found the info and picture about Frederick Mayberry's gravestone I will try and contact the person who submitted the info to Findagrave.com. Perhaps they might have details of other Mayberrys buried in the same cemetery.
I am hoping that we do end up making contact with the Owens sometime soon. I think that there is a good chance that Nancy still has grandchildren that are alive who might remember hearing about the Shay/Mayberry background. Since Nancy was the oldest surviving daughter of James & Margaret and the first to get married...there might be a good chance that there is a family bible, family tree or may even be old pictures from that lineage. I will consider it a jackpot if I ever came across a picture of either James Shay or Margaret Mayberry. They both lived until the late 1860's. My father's family has several ancestor photos from the 1860's so I know there is always a slight chance that one exists.
I looked into the slave census of 1850 and sure enough I found that Frederick Mayberry was indeed a slave owner. In fact, his wife Elizabeth still owned the slaves as of 1860. Since he took on a slave woman and her small daughters, I think the slaves were probably more like domestic servants. Also he seems to have taken them on when he was over the age of 50 and had to go out of state to get them. My theory is that he might have inherited the slaves from a relative. Perhaps a father, brother or an in-law. We do not know Elizabeth Mayberry's maiden name so there is always a possibility that she still had brothers or a father that owned slaves in the late 1840's.
I think that the Native American connection comes through Mary Ashley's line. She had direct contact and resided with her granddaughters Nancy and Jane until they were grown. She could have filled them in about having relatives or a grandmother that was a Native American medicine woman. Also I know Mary Ashley's father's name and the name of her step-mother but I still cannot find a single piece of information on her birth mother. There could be a good chance that Mary Ashley's maternal line was Native American.
I wouldn't be surprised if the husband of Mary Ashley and father of Margaret turns out to be a man named John Mayberry. I am using logic with this reasoning. There was a John S. Mayberry that purchased land in the county around the same time that Frederick Mayberry purchased land...circa 1820's-1830's. In my opinion, John was either a father or brother to Frederick. Frederick has a least 3 sons. I know the names of 2 of them which were George & William. The other son that is unnamed is most likely the father of Margaret. William, son of Frederick had 2 sons that he named George and John. I think he named both of them after brothers. That is twice that the name John Mayberry shows up. I bet the unnamed older brother of William is a man named John who lived circa 1820-1845...married to Mary Ashley and most likely father to Delphia & Margaret.
One day soon I think I will uncover the identity. Thats all I have for now.
*****************************************************
I am hoping that we do end up making contact with the Owens sometime soon. I think that there is a good chance that Nancy still has grandchildren that are alive who might remember hearing about the Shay/Mayberry background. Since Nancy was the oldest surviving daughter of James & Margaret and the first to get married...there might be a good chance that there is a family bible, family tree or may even be old pictures from that lineage. I will consider it a jackpot if I ever came across a picture of either James Shay or Margaret Mayberry. They both lived until the late 1860's. My father's family has several ancestor photos from the 1860's so I know there is always a slight chance that one exists.
I looked into the slave census of 1850 and sure enough I found that Frederick Mayberry was indeed a slave owner. In fact, his wife Elizabeth still owned the slaves as of 1860. Since he took on a slave woman and her small daughters, I think the slaves were probably more like domestic servants. Also he seems to have taken them on when he was over the age of 50 and had to go out of state to get them. My theory is that he might have inherited the slaves from a relative. Perhaps a father, brother or an in-law. We do not know Elizabeth Mayberry's maiden name so there is always a possibility that she still had brothers or a father that owned slaves in the late 1840's.
I think that the Native American connection comes through Mary Ashley's line. She had direct contact and resided with her granddaughters Nancy and Jane until they were grown. She could have filled them in about having relatives or a grandmother that was a Native American medicine woman. Also I know Mary Ashley's father's name and the name of her step-mother but I still cannot find a single piece of information on her birth mother. There could be a good chance that Mary Ashley's maternal line was Native American.
I wouldn't be surprised if the husband of Mary Ashley and father of Margaret turns out to be a man named John Mayberry. I am using logic with this reasoning. There was a John S. Mayberry that purchased land in the county around the same time that Frederick Mayberry purchased land...circa 1820's-1830's. In my opinion, John was either a father or brother to Frederick. Frederick has a least 3 sons. I know the names of 2 of them which were George & William. The other son that is unnamed is most likely the father of Margaret. William, son of Frederick had 2 sons that he named George and John. I think he named both of them after brothers. That is twice that the name John Mayberry shows up. I bet the unnamed older brother of William is a man named John who lived circa 1820-1845...married to Mary Ashley and most likely father to Delphia & Margaret.
One day soon I think I will uncover the identity. Thats all I have for now.
*****************************************************
October 21, 2008 - Frederick Mayberry
I found some more info on the Mayberry line. There are a couple of daughters of Frederick Mayberry that are unaccounted for. These would be aunts to Margaret Mayberry Shay. I think one of Frederick's daughters was named Nancy because there was a Nancy Rasco born in Ballard Co., Kentucky in 1853 to Linsey Rasco & Nancy Mayberry. Assuming her mother is between 15-30, it would put her at the right age to be a daughter of Frederick & Elizabeth.
Also I discovered that Frederick Mayberry was a slave owner. Attached is the info I came across. The info came from "Acts Passed at the Session of the General Assembly for the Commonwealth of Kentucky" Published by J. Bradford, printer to the Commonwealth, 1849.
Apparently Frederick Mayberry owned a slave named Esther and her children, Clara and Amanda in 1849. Not sure what the family would think about this.
**********************************************************
I remember coming across a birth certificate or something with the Linsey Rasco info - I will look tonight in my notes - I never throw anything away...so I'm sure that I have it. Have you received your book re: the cemetery info? I haven't heard anything from the Owens. I think I will check to see if I can find a telephone number -- it can't hurt at this stage right. Are you and Justin still coming up to see Aunt Georgie on the 1st? I put together some info on the relatives of Ira for your reference and some photos on a CD.
Also I discovered that Frederick Mayberry was a slave owner. Attached is the info I came across. The info came from "Acts Passed at the Session of the General Assembly for the Commonwealth of Kentucky" Published by J. Bradford, printer to the Commonwealth, 1849.
Apparently Frederick Mayberry owned a slave named Esther and her children, Clara and Amanda in 1849. Not sure what the family would think about this.
**********************************************************
I remember coming across a birth certificate or something with the Linsey Rasco info - I will look tonight in my notes - I never throw anything away...so I'm sure that I have it. Have you received your book re: the cemetery info? I haven't heard anything from the Owens. I think I will check to see if I can find a telephone number -- it can't hurt at this stage right. Are you and Justin still coming up to see Aunt Georgie on the 1st? I put together some info on the relatives of Ira for your reference and some photos on a CD.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)