Part V � Robert Kelsay
Family Group "C"
Robert Kelsay, son of William Kelsay and Mary Dunlop, was born in 1711, near the small town of Dromore in County Down, Northern Ireland.
From Fred Kelsay:
"Rev. Morgan Edwards came from England and wrote a book about the Baptists in New Jersey in the 18th century. It was published in 1793, and I saw a copy in the rare book section of the New York Public Library in 1976. Rev. Edwards had written to all of the Baptist Ministers in New Jersey prior to that time, and asked them send him some background information about themselves."
Rev. Robert Kelsay was the Minister at the Cohansey Baptist Church in Cumberland County, New Jersey, and he responded to Rev. Edwards with a letter about himself and his family. He wrote that he had been born in the year 1711 near Drummore, Ireland, and came to the Port in Maryland in 1734. He arrived in Cohansey (south New Jersey) in 1738. The spelling of "Drummore" was an ancient spelling of the present day town of Dromore, which is located in County Down, Northern Ireland. Rev. Robert Kelsay also stated in his letter to Rev. Edwards, that he had thirty-three grandchildren at that time, and his children had married into the families of: Sheppards, Bowens, Dares, Heatons, Reeves, Smiths, and Pagets. The forgoing are indisputable facts that were written by Rev. Robert Kelsay's own hand.
"Of Scots ancestry, he was probably a 2nd generation Irishman. His grandfather, probably removed from Scotland and settled in Northern Ireland in the middle 1600's. It is speculation that his father was the William Kelsay, who lived in the Dromore area. For one reason, it was customary to name the oldest son after one's father. Their religion was of the Protestant denomination, and most likely Presbyterian.
"In 1734, at the age of 23, Robert decided to migrate to the British colonies in North America. Trouble was brewing between the Irish Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland, and Robert probably felt there were more opportunities in the New World. He was young, and the adventure of sailing across thousands of miles of water and settling in the colonies was probably a big factor in his decision."
It seems likely that he came with other members of his family, or they came shortly after. There is evidence of other Kelsays that were no doubt related to Robert, who lived and died in Cumberland County, New Jersey; they were too old to be Robert's descendants.
Keziah Kelsay, born about 1724, likely a sister or niece, was the first wife of Ephraim Sheppard, who was born 21 May 1723, in Cumberland County, (formerly Cohansey County) New Jersey, and died there 8 May 1783. Keziah died shortly after marriage, and Ephraim was married/2 to Sarah Dennis, and 3rd to Rebecca Barrett.
In 1734, Robert disembarked at Maryland from the tall three masted sailing ship where the present seaport of Baltimore is located. His whereabouts from the time he landed, until he settled in Cumberland County, in 1738, is unknown, but no doubt in the same vicinity, possibly Philadelphia. Cumberland County was known at that time as Cohansey. He joined the Cohansey Baptist Church shortly after his arrival, and was soon recognized for his industry and dedication to the church. Possessing a high degree of intelligence, a good sense of humor, and a fervent and sincere desire to help bring his fellow man closer to the ways of the Lord. Robert was baptized by the Church in 1741. In 1743, he was asked by the Church to become a Licentiate, and accepted.
In the same year, the Pittsgrove Mission (then known as Pikesgrove) made application to the mother church at Cohansey for Robert Kelsay to come and live there in order to supply them. The request was granted by the Church, on the condition that he would return when they saw the occasion. Under these conditions, Robert began his ministerial duties, and moved to Pittsgrove, which was located in the Township of Upper Pittsgrove in Salem County, New Jersey, near Daretown.
Robert arrived in Maryland in the year 1734. He disembarked from the tall, three masted sailing ship where the present seaport of Baltimore is located. It normally took about two and one half months to sail from Ireland to the east coast of America in those days. Disease was often rampant on these ships, and many people died on every trip. His whereabouts from the time he landed in Maryland in 1734 until he settled in Cohansey (Later, Cumberland County, New Jersey) in 1738 are unknown. Undoubtedly he spent that four years somewhere in close proximity. Probably in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, with his older brother John Kelsay, who had came over from Ireland about 1728. At any rate, Robert was twenty-seven years old when he arrived in Cumberland County, New Jersey, which at that time was called "Cohansey".
Immediately upon his arrival, Robert directed his efforts to having a good and substantial frame meeting-house built, and prepared the Church Covenant, which consisted of ten articles. (This covenant was used until 1867, when, to be in conformity with sister churches, the manual by J. Newton Brown was adopted.) Things were well organized and new members were added.
He was married in early in 1744, to Miriam Smith, who was born in 1723 in Pittsgrove, Salem County, New Jersey.
Robert was ordained in 1750 and was to remain a pastor until his death in 1789. He was well liked and the Church grew. Rev. Robert and members of the Pittsgrove Mission always traveled to the Mother Church at Cohansey for communion services on the first Sunday of each month. This journey required about a two hour ride by horseback, and the winters were rather cold. He worked to see the Pittsgrove Mission become a distinct Church, which it did in 1771.
On 2 June 1754, Rev. Jenkins, who had been preaching at the Mother Church at Cohansey, died. On his death-bed he recommended to the elders of the Church that they call Rev. Robert Kelsay to take his place. This was an exceptional honor, with prestige, and a substantial pay raise from an annual salary of 40 pounds ($160.) to 100 pounds ($400), which was a very generous wage indeed. However, Robert refused the offer, because of his strong friendships with the members of his own congregation. He recommended his good friend and fellow pastor Rev. Job Sheppard. However, fate took a hand. In April 1756, the Kelsay home at Pittsgrove was destroyed by fire. The call from the mother church was renewed, and this time Rev. Robert accepted. He had been living at Pittsgrove for 13 years, and 6 of his children had been born there. He moved on 18 May 1736.
Robert had been keeping all the old records of the Cohansey church in his home in Salem County, and when it burned, they were destroyed. He commenced a new Pastoral Register in 1757. It is a large folio and contains a list of the members at that time, which numbered 106 in 1757. Written in Rev. Robert's own hand, it is still retained by the Cohansey Church in 1976
On 2 March 1757, Robert was shocked and saddened by the death of Rev. Job Sheppard, age 51, with whom he had been close friends since they were young.
On 27 April 1757, a farm of 127 acres was bought by the Church to serve as a parsonage. It was situated at Bowentown in Cumberland County at the intersection of the Greenwich and Garret Run Roadstown in Cumberland County, still has the old communion table that had been used by Rev. Robert at the old Cohansey Church at Lower Hopewell. The front door step is also there.
Rev. Robert Kelsay was a tax ratable in Hopewell Township until 1782. Also he was a witness for several wills during the period of time from 1756 until 1782. On 31 December 1766, in Hopewell, he married Captain Bowen and Sarah Daniel. On 24 May 1782, in Hopewell, he witnessed a will for Elizabeth Bishop. The Kelsay family evidently moved during the summer of 1782 to the nearby township of Stow Creek, for he was a resident of Stow Creek Township on 25 October 1782, when he witnessed a will for Eldad Cook. On 26 November 1785, Rev. Robert and his son, William, were both living in Stow Creek Township and were witnesses for Ananias Sayre.
The records for the Pennsylvania Gazette, dated 13 October 1863, #1816, lists a letter for Rev. Robert Kelsay of Cumberland County, New Jersey, remaining in the Post Office at Philadelphia. Again on 15 March 1764, the Pennsylvaniasylvania Gazette, #1838, listed a letter in the Philadelphia Post Office for Rev. Robert Kelsay of New Jersey. You may ask why Rev. Robert Kelsay was receiving mail at the Philadelphia Post Office in Pennsylvania instead of New Jersey where he resided. The simple reason is, that was the only Post Office at that time. Benjamin Franklin was also the publisher of the Pennsylvaniasylvania Gazette which was listing the information concerning the mail for Rev. Robert Kelsay. As it was a very long and slow process to have a letter delivered by sailing ship to a person in the colonies in those days, the person or persons writing Rev. Robert Kelsay was probably some close kin still residing back in Northern Ireland.
After Rev. Robert became pastor of the Cohansey Church situated in Hopewell, he also began preaching at the courthouse in Bridgeton (Cumberland County Seat.) Ebenezer Elmer recorded in his journal that Rev. Robert preached at the courthouse in Bridgeton on 29 October 1775 and also on 3 December 1775. This practice was continued by his successor, Rev. Henry Smalley, and finally the first Baptist church of Bridgeton was built, owing it's origin to the Cohansey Baptist church and the efforts of Rev. Kelsay and Rev. Smalley.
There were some indications that William might have resided with Rev. Robert at the parsonage in Bowentown after his marriage to Keziah Sheppard in 1766. When the War with England broke out and William became a Captain with the Continental Army and later a Paymaster in the New Jersey Militia, he was busy and gone a lot, so it was likely that his wife and family resided with Rev. Robert then. The Revolutionary War was indeed a trying period of time. The New Jersey colony was a highway for the contending armies, the harbors a refuge of English fleets, and it's seacoast and rivers were patrolled by warships to destroy the commerce.
When Rev. Morgan Edwards, A. M., published his book in 1792 concerning the New Jersey Baptists, he had a letter from Rev. Robert Kelsay that indicated he had returned to Ireland for a visit in 1767. Rev. Robert told Rev. Edwards that the Cohansey Church in New Jersey was founded about 1683, by some Baptists from the County of Tipperary in Ireland. The Mother Church back in Ireland was called "Cleagh Keating" and was still in flourishing condition in 1767 when he visited that country. On 31 March 1838, a letter and hymn-book was sent from Cleagh Keating Church in Ireland to it's daughter Church, Cohansey in Cumberland County, New Jersey. The letter asked about the rise and progress of the Cohansey Church and requested a reply from the Pastor, Rev. Henry Smalley. Sometime after 1838 Cleagh Keating became extinct. It was a Baptist Church located in Southern Ireland, so we might guess what some of the contributing factors might have been.
Miriam, his wife, died 8 January 1785, in Atow Creel, Cumberland Coounty, New Jersey, and was interred at the Cohansey Church Burying Ground in Hopewell Township, New Jersey. Her tombstone with it's engraved inscription was still in good condition in 1976. In all probability, Rev. Robert spent the last years of his life living with his son, William Kelsay, Esquire, and family.
In 1788, the Philadelphia Association of Baptist Churches held a conference in Philadelphia when Rev. Robert Kelsay was 77 years old. He preached at it's session from Acts 8:35 to the young ministers. He advised them:
These extracts were recorded in the minutes of the session, as a memorial to him.
The following year Robert grew ill, and on 23 March 1789, he wrote his will and appointed his eldest son, William, and his youngest son, David, as executors. About 2 months later he died, on 30 May 1889, 78 years old, and was interred beside his beloved wife.
His original hand-written will is located in the State Library at Trenton, New Jersey, in the Archive and History Bureau. Three of his daughters and his son John were not mentioned in the will, perhaps because they had died prior to 1789. William died 3 years later. Rev. Robert left provisions in his will that all of his grandchildren would be presented a Bible from him. This was to include any that had not been born at the time of his death. Two grandsons were mentioned in his will because they had been named Robert after their grandfather.
He had been pastor at the Cohansey Baptist Church for 33 years, and the Mission Branch for 13 years. He had traveled about by buggy and horseback all his life, and had preached for more than 45 years in churches that never had any heat in winter. A stove was installed in the Cohansey Church shortly after his death. The early Baptists had to bundle up good with heavy clothes and bring warming stones with them to church. Throughout his life, Rev. Robert enjoyed good health and a vigorous constitution, and his mental facilities were alert until the time of his death. A life of 78 years was rare, too.
It was said of him:
    "As a man and companion, he was amusing and instructive. As a Christian he was exemplary and animated; as a preacher, he was fervent and truly orthodox. Warmly engaged was he in the service of the sanctuary, to which he repaired without interruption till a few days previous to his death."
    "Mr. Kelsay had the genial qualities of the Irish, to which was added fervent piety and great earnestness in his ministry. He was a man of order and set himself to make up deficiencies."
    "The early records of the Church being lost, the first register of which we have any knowledge was commenced by him in 1757. It is a large folio bound in parchment and contains the earliest statistics extant. Everything pertaining to the general record of the Church was kept with scrupulous exactness."
The Kelsay children married into families of Sheppards, Bowens, Dares, Heatons, Reeves, Smiths, Pagets, and raised him 33 grandchildren, and perhaps others born after his death.
In Robert's burial plot in the old Cohansey Burying Ground, Lower Hopewell Township, Cumberland County, near his and his wife's tombstones, there are five small stones inscribed with initials.
Children:
William Kelsay, Esquire, (Captain, Major) the oldest child of Reverend Robert Kelsay and Miriam Smith, was born 25 December 1744, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married 16 January 1766, by his father, in the home of the bride, to Keziah Sheppard, who was born 25 June 1744, in Cumberland County, New Jersey, daughter of Rev. Job Sheppard (deceased) and Katherine Bowen.
He was made co-executor of his father's will and was described at the time, as of Stowe Creek Township. 9.Keziah Sheppard, born 28 June 1744 died 12 September 1814, and died, both in Cumberland County, New Jersey
David Sheppard I, who came from the County of Tipperary, southern Ireland, was called to the ministry in 1742, at the same time as Rev. Robert Kelsay and they became the best of friends. Job died before 1744.
John Sheppard I, son of David Shepard, was born about 1656, in England, and died 6 October 1710, in Cohansey, New Jersey John was married/1 to Margaret __, who was born 1649, died 1709. John was married/2 to Mary Wade Page, born about 1671, Cohansey, New Jersey, died about 20 April 1714, mother of Samuel Sheppard, born about 1711
Children:
Job Sheppard I, son of John Sheppard I and Margaret, born about 1706, in Cohansey, New Jersey, died 2 March 1757, Cohansey; was married to Katherine Bowen
Rev. Job Shephard II, son of Job and Katherine, was born about 1735 had 13 children, birth order uncertain:
Children:
William was a member of the gentry in Cumberland County, New Jersey. In England, the title Esquire ranked just below a knight, was rarely given, and then only to Gentlemen of high esteem. In 28 May 1778, he was a Tax-ratable, in Stow Creek Township, and a Tax-ratable frp, 1779-1781, in Hopewell Township, Cumberland County.
William was a staunch patriot, and when the troubles grew worse with England, he loyally and zealously supported his country. Highly intelligent and a born leader of men, he was consistently called upon to accept positions of responsibility and authority.
On 12 August 1775, the Provincial Congress ordered a new election for members of that body, and of the county committees. On 21 September, William was chosen to be on the Cumberland County Committee from the town of Stow Creek, Thomas Harris as chairman. On 29 September, the militia met at New England Town in the Presbyterian Church (now called Old Stone Church) to appoint field-officers for the West Battalion. David Potter was appointed Colonel, William Kelsay was 1st Major, and Abijah Holmes Lieutenant.
On 30 September, they applied to the Continental Congress for a supply of powder to defend the county from any British ships, which might enter the bay, foraging for provisions. After the overthrow of the royal authority, the county committees exercised large powers, arresting and imprisoning those hostile to the cause of the patriots, and doing other acts outside of the ordinary processes of law.
During the winter of 1775, the tension and hostility increased until open warfare was eminent. The British were receiving reinforce-ments, and on 14 June 1776, two companies were formed from Cumberland County, and Captain William was in command of one of them. General Washington, unwisely, divided his forces, and in August, William was defending Brooklyn Heights along the south end of Long Island, when the British made a strong surprise attack. William's company narrowly managed to escape. They were sent to Mount Washington, New York, and White Plains, New York; Phillips Manor and back to Newark, New Jersey. They were discharged in December when their enlistment expired. After this, William became a Major in Colonel David Potter's Militia, and served as paymaster. He resigned just prior to 23 June 1780.
William served as Commissioner for Forfeited Estates in Cumberland County, and elected sheriff until 1781. On 3 March 1782, William was baptized by Rev. William Rogers, pastor of 1st Baptist Church of Philadelphia, and joined the Cohansey Baptist Church. In 1784, he was appointed Justice of the Peace (a very distinguished office in those days) and a member of the state legislature.
He died 19 January 1792, and was buried in the old Cohansey Baptist Cemetery near his parents. The site is marked with a small stone inscribed with "Wm K."
On 7 July 1799, Keziah was baptized, joined the Cohansey Baptist Church. She died 12 September 1814, buried on the 13th, in her son-in-law Jacob Richman's lot at Roadstown Baptist church. The information about their children was obtained from a manuscript prepared by Reverend Robert Kelsay. The children were probably all born in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
Children:
Daniel Kelsay, son of William Kelsay, Esquire, and Keziah Sheppard, was born 19 February 1768, probably in Cumberland County, New Jersey. He was married/1 to Grace Bacon, born 1770, Cumberland County, daughter of William Bacon and Tabitha Smith.
Their Children:
He was married/2 on 28 August 1802, to Louisa Mulford, daughter of Jacob Mulford, Jr. and Sarah Peak. She died in June 1811, and buried on the 21st, in husband's family tomb.
He was married/3 28 November 1812, to Hannah B. Sheppard, who was born 9 July 1779,in Hopewell, Cumberland County, New Jersey, daughter of James Sheppard and Keziah Barber. (Hannah was baptized and joined the Cohansey Baptist Church on 4 August 1802) Hannah died 22 June 1855, and buried at Bunker Hill, Illinois. The children were born in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
Children:
Sarah Kelsay, daughter of William Kelsay, Esquire, and Keziah Sheppard, was born 7 February 1776, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
She was married 26 April 1796, in Cumberland County, to Job Sheppard, who was born 9 February 1771, her cousin, son of Job Sheppard and Rachel Mulford.
At the time of his death, Job was in the Army during the War of 1812. He was killed 13 November 1815, in the Battle of Red Bank, Billingsport, New Jersey. Sarah died 21 September 1851, and was buried Greenwich Baptist church, New Jersey. They had a family of 5 sons and 4 daughters.
Children:
Martha Kelsay, daughter of William Kelsay Esquire and Keziah Sheppard, was born 6 October 1779, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
She was married to Jacob Richman, who was born in 1780. She was buried 13 October 1815, and he was buried 23 October 1820, both in Roadstown, in the Cohansey Baptist Church Cemetery, (Lot 137, 25 row, section 3) as are all of their family, except for Mary.
Children:
Tabitha Kelsay, daughter of Daniel Kelsay and Grace Bacon, was born 4 March 1793, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
She was married 10 June 1812 in Cumberland County, to Eli Fitzjarrel, of Scotch-Irish descent, who was born l March 1788 in Cumberland County, son of Ambrose Fitzjarrel and Deborah Barret. Elder Smalley of the Cohansey Baptist Church performed the ceremony.
In his early life, Eli was identified with the old Whig party, but later became a Democrat. He taught school in New Jersey. Throughout his life he was a deeply religious man, and an untiring worker in the cause of temperance.
About 1815, Eli and Tabitha took their family and moved to Warren County, Ohio, where he farmed. About 1830, the family moved to Macoupin County, Illinois.
Eli died there 18 December 1854. Tabitha died 24 October 1856 in Raymond Township, Montgomery County Illinois, and was buried in the Cass Cemetery, in Raymond Township.
Eli and several of his children are buried in a cemetery in the western part of Macoupin County, but we do not know the name. It may be a family burial plot on their old farm. His wife and several of the children are buried in the Cass Cemetery in Raymond, Illinois. They had 14 children, and became a prosperous and honorable family. In 1976 there are still many of their descendants living there.
Children:
Rev. Daniel Kelsay, son of Daniel Kelsay and Louisa Mulford, was born 2 October 1805, near Roadstown, Cumberland County, New Jersey. He was baptized by Rev. Henry Smalley at Roadstown, in January 1829, and preached at Lambertville, New Jersey, for ten years.
He was married about 1840 to Elizabeth ____, who was born in 1812 in Pennsylvania, most likely in the Norristown area. He then served pastorates in Manahawkin, New Jersey; Dividing Creek, New Jersey; Pittsgrove, New Jersey; and in Pennsylvania at Spartansburgh, Brownsville, and Redstone. He spent his last six years with his youngest son in Meadville, Pennsylvania.
Children:
Elizabeth Burgin Kelsay, daughter of Daniel Kelsay and Hannah Sheppard, was born 20 August 1813, in Greenwich Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey.
She was married 11 July 1833, by the Rev. Henry Smalley, to Henry Sheppard, son of Josiah Sheppard and Charlotte Westcott.
Elizabeth lived with her daughter, Harriett, the last few years of her life. Elizabeth died 29 July 1901, and was buried in the Roadstown Baptist Cemetery.
The children were all born in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
Children:
James Sheppard Kelsay, son of Daniel Kelsay and Hannah Sheppard, was born 30 September 1815, in Greenwich Township, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married 21 October 1837, in Cumberland County to Harriett Wescott Sheppard. who was born 19 February 1816, in Cumberland County, daughter of Josiah Sheppard and Charlotte Westcott. Harriett was devout, hard worker, and meticulous housewife.
Between 1848 and 1855, James took his family west to Illinois, and settled at Bunker Hill, Macoupin County, and by 1857 removed to the nearby town of Edwardsville, in Madison County. In 1860, the family moved in a covered wagon to Colorado and settled at Blackhawk, in Gilpin County, later moving to Boulder, Colorado.
James died there 2 February 1877. Harriett died 2 February 1901, in Montrose, Colorado.
When son Henry had his 50th birthday, his mother gave him the family Bible that had belonged to Hannah B (Sheppard) Kelsay. In 1977, this Bible is in the possession of Steven Albert Kelsay of Fresno, California.
The 5 older children were born in Cumberland County, New Jersey
Children:
David Potter Kelsay, son of Daniel Kelsay and Hannah Sheppard, was born 1 April 1819, in Greenwich Township, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married in 1843 in Cumberland County, New Jersey, to Sarah Sheppard, daughter of Joseph Sheppard and Cynthia Smith, residents of Hopewell Township. Sarah died 22 April 1844, the day after her child was stillborn. They are buried in the Roadstown Baptist Church Cemetery, Cumberland County, New Jersey.
David was married/2 on 1 March 1845, in Cumberland County, New Jersey, to Ruth Brown, daughter of John and Mary Brown of Indiana Fields, New Jersey. Ruth died 13 September 1849, also of complications following childbirth.
David was married/3 on 5 September 1850 in Bridgeton, New Jersey, to Sarah Brown Ivins, a niece of Ruth's, who was born 10 January 1832, in Cumberland County.
There are records of several land transactions in the county, the last one being 30 April 1883, when they sold their land in Stow Creek Township. This was probably done by mail, as David and his family were living in Vernon County, Missouri, at this time. He had made his trek "west" in the spring of 1870. They made the trip by flatboat and covered wagon. On 9 June 1870, David bought a farm of 400 acres, in Vernon County, near Dederick, Missouri, which is 14 miles east of Nevado, Missouri. Three generations of Kelsay's lived there.
Sarah died 16 January 1898, in Vernon County. She had driven an old blind horse with buggy, and was crossing the railroad tracks in Nevada, Missouri, when a switch engine hit the horse, injuring Sarah. She later died as a result.
David died 24 January 1894, in Vernon County, Missouri, near Dederick. He is buried in a family burial plot that is located in the old "Turner" Cemetery, located on the present farm (1976) of Jewel (Null) Long and John L. Long. This used to be the old Jim Bigson farm before Jewel and her late husband, Mr. Fleming, bought it. The cemetery is located in a woods about 1/2 mile from the farm house and is pretty much gone. Most of the stones are broken off and the graves are covered with trees and underbrush. The Kelsay plot is enclosed with an old wire fence and are the only stones still standing.
All except the 2 younger children were born in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
Children:
William Kelsay Sheppard, son of Sarah Kelsay and Job Sheppard, was born 21 July 1799, probably in Cumberland County, New Jersey. William had a large farm in Greenwich.
He was married 11 November 1831, to Sarah Ewing Fithian, who was born 2 January 1809, in Greenwich, Cumberland, New Jersey, the daughter Charles Beatty Fithian and Mary Ewing. See: Fithian Family
Sarah died in August 1903.
Elizabeth Beatty was daughter of Charles Beatty and Ann Reading, who was daughter of John Reading, a descendant of one of the earliest Quaker settlers of Burlingtoon, and a granddaughter of John Beatty and Christiana Clinton, a cousin of Governor George Clinton of New York.
Children: Probably all born in Greenwich, Cumberland County, New Jersey
Horatio J. Sheppard, son of and Job Sheppard, was born 14 January 1801, in Camden, New Jersey.
He was married 27 September 1830, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Sophia Bamford.
He was a carpenter by trade and a contractor. He moved to Fairton, New Jersey, and lived there a great many years, and died there.
Children:
William Baker Fitzjarrell, son of Tabitha Kelsay and Eli Fitzjarrell, was born 3 October 1815, in Warren County, Ohio.
He was married 10 November 1836, in Greene County, Illinois, to Elizabeth Courtney, born in Madison County, Illinois, daughter of William Courtney, a native of Kentucky who settled in Madison County in 1809.
William and Elizabeth moved in 1856 from Macoupin County, Illinois, to Zanesville Township in Montgomery County, Illinois, where they had an excellent farm.
William was a Baptist Minister, preaching at Little Flock Primitive Baptist church at Honey bend, Montgomery County, Illinois. All told he preached for better than forty years. He was always active and influential in community affairs and served in local offices. In 1881, Elizabeth and William retired from the farm and moved into Raymond, Illinois.
They had 3 boys and 3 girls; Birth order uncertain.
Children:
Phebe Fitzjarrell, daughter of Tabitha Kelsay and Eli Fitzjarrell, was born 3 November 1816, in Warren County, Ohio.
She was married/1 to Ira Ketchum, who was born 26 February 1816. She was married/2 to Eli Cooper.
Children:
Daniel Kelsay Fitzjarrell, son of Tabitha Kelsay and Eli Fitzjarrell, was born 27 April 1818, in Warren County, Ohio.
He was married 11 March 1841, in Montgomery County, Illinois, to Cathrine Margaret Skeen, born 13 November 1821 in Nashville, Tennessee, daughter of Joseph Anderson Skeen and Judy Brown.
Daniel died 18 June 1866 in Raymond, Illinois, and was buried there in the Cass Cemetery. His will is on file in the Montgomery County Court House, dated 11 May 1866, recorded in Book "B", pages 565 and 566. Four of the children were minors at the time of his death.
Cathrine died 8 November 1897 in Pattonsburg, Davies County, Missouri, and is buried in the Civil Bend Cemetery there.
Children:
Maria H Fitzjarrell, daughter of Tabitha Kelsay and Eli Fitzjarrell, was born 26 July 1820, in Warren County, Ohio. Her name on her tombstone is "Mariah."
She was married 5 October 1837, in Greene County, Illinois, to John Jackson Skeen, born 20 July 1820, Nashville, Tennessee, son of Joseph Anderson Skeen & Judy Brown. They purchased 38.41 acres at $1.25 per acre of Federal land in Macoupin County, Illinois. Maria died 19 November 1859, in Chesterfield, Macoupin County, Illinois, in childbirth.
John was married/2 to Amanda ___ , and died in 1893.
The birth order of the children in uncertain.
Children:
Rev. Rufus B. Kelsay, son of Rev. Daniel Kelsay and Elizabeth, was born 7 August 1842, in Manahawkin, New Jersey.
He was married to Evalina D. Reed. He was a resident of Brooklyn, Kings County, New York, for 21 years and had been pastor of the 6th Avenue Church.
He died 11 June 1896 in Brooklyn. He and his wife were both buried at the Pittsgrove-Daretown Baptist Church Cemetery near Elmer, Salem County, New Jersey.
Children:
Thomas B. Kelsay, son of Rev. Daniel Kelsay and Elizabeth, was born in October 1846, in New Jersey. He was married to Agnes N ___, who was born in September 1846, in Pennsylvania. Her father was born in Ireland.
Children:
Joseph Lafayette Kelsay, son of James Sheppard Kelsay and Harriett Sheppard, was born 10 April 1857, in Edwardsville, Madison County, Illinois. He left home as a young man and became a miner and prospector, in Colorado, Utah, and California. He was a quiet, deep-thinking person.
He was married 17 January 1877 in Nampa, Idaho, to Martha Ellen Marcus, who was born 21 April 1861, in Tennessee. They were divorced in 1889, and she later married August Scharf, and had 2 more children. She died 21 April 1954, in Santa Monica, California, and is buried there in the Woodlawn Cemetery.
After his divorce, Joseph worked in a mine in Idaho that was just above a cattle ranch owned by John Turner and Alice Blaylock, who had a sweet little daughter named Nora, who was born 16 January 1875, Mayfield, Elmore County, Idaho.
Joseph and Nora could not get her family to approve their marriage because of his being divorced. They eloped to Nampa, Idaho, 20 miles away, and were married 3 April 1892, and moved into a little house on the Boise River.
The Turner family was very upset and would not speak to them. but about a year later John and Alice had little twin girls get sick and die. They were grieving over their loss, when Joseph came to them and invited them to go on a camping and fishing trip with him for a week to get their minds off of the little girls. Joseph treated them so nice, and they enjoyed the trip so well that they fell in love with "Kelsay." Shortly after the camping trip, Nora gave birth to a baby girl. Alice was also around a few months later when Nora's 2nd child, a son, was born.
The mine closed in the fall of 1894, and they moved to Perl, Idaho. When that mine closed, Joseph took his family to Cannon City, Colorado. While there he met and got to know his son by his first wife, Charley Kelsay. In 1909, Joseph decided to try his luck in California, leaving his family in Boise, Idaho, until he could send for them. He made a claim near Redding, California. In the meantime, Nora had moved to Portland, where she got work as a cook. They finally put down roots, and the Kelsay family was still occupying the place in 1977.
Joseph became a blacksmith. He died of lung trouble 25 September 1925, and was buried in Redding. Nora died of cancer 26 October 1932. Her body was cremated and her ashes placed with her husband.
Children:
William Brown Kelsay, son of David Potter Kelsay and Sarah Brown, was born 3 August 1851, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married in Missouri to Clara A. Leonard, born in 1853. They lived in Indian Territory, when they sold land to Henry S. Kelsay. After that time their address was Mountain Fork, Polk County, Arkansas.
William could not read, and had his minister write his letters for him. Between January 1894 and March 1897, he was accidentally shot hunting wild turkeys. He was buried in Polk County.
On 11 April 1898, his widow, Clara, wrote to Henry S. Kelsay, that she was sorry to hear about the death of Sarah B., whom she called mother. She gave the ages of the children, and asked that he take care of the settlement of their father's estate. She said that she had married again 12 March 1897, to J. W. Parker. This may have ended in divorce, as on 5 February 1903, she signed her name Clara A. Kelsay, and later in 1935, the same.
Big Cedar, Texas, consists of 1 gas station and 1 church, so a lot of these people lived very close together. Bert Kelsay's family is buried at New Home Cemetery and Mary Fields. The Cemeteries are not 5 miles apart.
Children:
Henry Sheppard Kelsay, son of David Potter Kelsay and Sarah Brown, was born 28 August 1858, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married 27 September 1883, in the home of the bride in Vernon County, Missouri, to Matilda Stockton McKinley, who was born in 1862 in St. Paris, Ohio. Henry traveled extensively throughout Vernon County, Missouri, and traded in live-stock for many years.
Henry had an easy and pleasant personality and enjoyed talking to people. He remained in robust physical health until late in life, and won an athletic contest when he was in his fifties that required much running and jumping. Matilda was an attractive woman, with dark hair and eyes. They made a handsome couple. Matilda lost the sight of one eye in an accident, while making lye soap. Henry died 8 February 1943; Matilda died 24 February 1951, both near Dederick, Missouri, and buried in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.
Children:
William M Sheppard, son of Horatio J. Sheppard and Sophia Bamford, was born 19 December 1838, in Camden, New Jersey.
He was married in February 1861, to Sarah J. Campbell, who was born in 1842 in Fairton, daughter of Oliver Campbell. William farmed in Fairton, New Jersey, most of his life.
He owned a small farm in Cedarville, New Jersey, where he spent the remainder of his years. He was originally a Republican, but later became a Prohibitionist. He was a member of the township committee, a surveyor, and a member of the school board, member of the Odd Fellows Lodge of Cedarville, and of the encampment. He was a member and a deacon in the Baptist Church.
Children:
Keziah R Sheppard, daughter of William Kelsay Sheppard and Sarah Ewing Fithian, was born in 1838, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
She was married 3 September 1856, in Greenwich, Cumberland County, New Jersey, to William Ogden, who was born 10 Cctober 1834, in Stow Creek Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey.
Children: Born in Stow Creek Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey
Joel Fithian Sheppard, son of William Kelsay Sheppard and Sarah Ewing Fithian, was born in 1835, in Greenwich, New Jersey. He was apprenticed to a ship carpenter, went to sea, and became master of a vessel, and followed the sea for fourteen years.
He was married in 1856 to Hannah A. Wallen, who was born in 1838.
During the Civil War, he twice ran the blockade of the Potomac. His brother and first cousins fought under the Stars and Stripes, and several relatives were with the Confederates. In 1869, he went into the coal business, locating in East Braintree, Massachusetts, and later in Quincy, Massachusetts. He was a Republican, and a 1870 Representative to the General Court. He was present of the Co-Operative Bank, past master of Delta Lodge of Free Masons of the Royal Arch Chapter, and South Shore Commandery, Knights Templar, an active member of the Congregational church.
Children:
Cyrus Fitzjarrell was son of William Baker Fitzjarrell and Elizabeth Courtney. He assisted his father in the operation of the family farm in Zanesville Township, Montgomery County, Illinois.
He was married there 12 September 1867, to Elizabeth A. Greenwood, who was born in Kentucky, and raised in Zanesville Township, daughter of Joseph Greenwood.
In 1903, Cyrus put the farm in charge of his son, William, and moved to Raymond, Illinois, where he engaged in the buying and shipping of stock, the business growing extensive and profitable. He helped organize the First National Bank there, and was one of the leading stockholders. In 1905, he was made president.
Children:
Naomi Fitzjarrell, daughter of William Baker Fitzjarrell and Elizabeth Courtney, was born 15 June 1849 in Macoupin County, Illinois. She was married/1 to Mr. McGown.
On 25 February 1874, she became the 2/wife of Isaac Frank Lawler, farmer, born 9 May 1836, in White County, Illinois, son of John T Lawler and Susan Bradbury. Isaac Frank had been constable and Commissioner for several years, independent in politics, a Methodist.
"History of Montgomery County, Illinois-1882"
His son John T Lawler, 3rd son in family of 8 children, was born 22 March 1805, Talladega County, Alabama. John T was a farmer, and in his younger days a pilot on the Wabash and Lower Mississippi Rivers; came to Fayette County, Illinois, in 1831; remained 1 yr, moved to White County for several years; then to Montgomery County, Illinois, where he died 15 August 1863. Two yrs, democrat White County Representative State Legislature. A magistrate, and 18 yrs Colonel of the State Militia. During the Mexican War, he raised and equipped a company of soldiers, of which he was Captain, but not called out.
John T's wife, Susan Bradbury, was born 15 May 1801, Kentucky, died 1 December 1860. She had 4 children.
Isaac Frank, eldest, received a fair education, was for 1 yr, a merchant at Butler, Illinois, where he built the 3rd building used for business. He farmed until 1865, then moved to Kansas City, Missouri, and supplied sand for building purposes for 12 yrs. He returned to Raymond, Illinois, purchased a farm. He was married/1 31 June 1855, to Nancy C Cayce, born 22 February 1838, Sangamon County, Illinois, daughter of Elijah Cayce, (b Kentucky) and Dorcas A Williams, (b 18 May 1806 Virginia); Nancy died 27 April 1871, left 5 children: Juliet; Jehu Henry; John A; Abigail A; James Franklin Lawler.
Children:
Tabitha Ellen Fitzjarrell, daughter of Daniel Kelsay Fitzjarrell and Cathrine Margaret Skeen, was born 11 February 1842, in Macoupin County, Illinois.
She was married 19 January 1859, Macoupin County, to Christopher Columbus Reno. Tabitha died 14 April 1920 in Pattonsburg, Davies County, Missouri.
Children:
Joseph Fitzjarrell, son of Daniel Kelsay Fitzjarrell and Catherine Margaret Skeen, was born 11 April 1849, in Macoupin, County, Illinois.
He was married 12 September 1872, in Montgomery County, Illinois, to Sarah Jane Cole, born 13 December 1857, in Montgomery County, Illinois.
The birth order of the children is uncertain.
Children:
Sarah Fitzjarrell, daughter of Daniel Kelsay Fitzjarrell and Catherine Margaret Skeen, was born 8 October 1853, in Macoupin County, Illinois.
She was married/1 6 March 1873, Montgomery County, Illinois, to John Abner Roach, born in 1853.
She was married/2 10 September 1892, Davies County Missouri, to Elisha S Brown, born 13 May 1858, and died 20 December 1922, Winston, Davies County.
Sarah died 6 April 1931, in Winston, Davies County, Illinois.
Children:
Emma Fitzjarrell, daughter of Daniel Kelsay and Catherine Margaret Skeen, was born 29 August 1861, in Girard, Macoupin County, Illinois.
She was married 31 December 1884, Girard, Macoupin County, Illinois, to Martin Alonzo Miller, born 3 September 1860, in Greenfield, Illinois.
Martin died 16 March 1917, in St Joseph, Missouri; Emma died 3 September 1939, in Pattonsburg, Davies County, Missouri.
Children:
William A Skeen, son of Maria H Fitzjarrell and John Jackson Skeen, was married to Della McCauley.
The birth order of children is uncertain.
Children:
Margaret Ellers Skeen, daughter of Maria H Fitzjarrel and John Jackson, was married to Joshua C/P Mann.
Children:
Laura Ann Ellers Skeen, daughter of Maria Fitzjarrell and John Jackson Skeen, was born 29 October 1844, in Chesterfield, Macoupin County, Illinois.
She was married/1 before 1866 to Mr. Reeves. She was married/2 26 August 1866, Benton, Franklin County, Illinois, to Hiram Weston, who was born 16 October 1836, in Benton.
William Weston, born 1811, North Carolina, died before 1844 and 1850, married 14 May 1829, in Union Illinois, to Jane Duff, born 1811, Illinois, died 4 May 1892, daughter of Margaret Duncan and Phillip Duff, born 1760, Kentucky, died 1840.
She died 24 February 1899, Franklin, Illinois. Hiram was married again, 20 October 1901, in Benton, to Sarah Bolen.
From Hiram's Civil War Papers:
Divorced from his 1/wife, Matilda A Drew, 14 April 1862, only a couple of weeks after his enlistment. They had two children, William A Weston, and Mary A Weston. Enlisted 24 March 1862 at Benton, Illinois for 3 yr, in 36 Reg't Illinois, Inf (This became County, D, 15 Reg't Illinois Cav).
At the time, he was age 25, 5'9" tall, eyes hazel, hair black, occupation Lawyer. He was an Orderly for General Logan, and mustered out 23 March 1865, in Little Rock, Arkansas.
"Source: Beulay Gertrude Rice Lawrence.
Hiram Weston was a strict parent who made most of the decisions in his household, but was loved and respected by his children. Their house was built of logs with a large room, which served as living quarters during the day, and a bedroom for the adults at night. There was a large kitchen where the family cooked and ate, washed and ironed, etc. There was a narrow stairway leading to the attic where the children slept. In winter, when it snowed during the night, the bed covers would have snow on them where it sifted during the night. There was a small shed out back that was known as the 'Pout House,' where the children were taken for punishment, or were sent when they were just out of sorts.
One incident that remained long in the memory of his children was when his neighbor threw an ax at one of Hiram Weston's cows and injured it because it had strayed into the wrong pasture. Hiram stood beside the neighbor with the ax in hand and forced the neighbor to sew up the cow. It is not known if the cow survived.
Occasionally when he was in town, he would drink too much. As he would come out of the saloon, realizing that his horse was in better shape for the trip home than he was, Hiram would get in the buckboard, let out a big 'war whoop,' give the horse full reign and it would head for home at top speed. The family could hear them approaching long before they arrived, and they could tell by the way the horse was running that Hiram had had too much to drink.
Sarah M Davis Bolen was a warm hearted loveable woman, who immediately became 'Aunt Sadie' to her step-children, who were all married by this time. Hiram and Sarah had one child, Edith Weston, born 11 June 1903. -Family History, 1964, author unknown."
"Mom (Emma Carolina Weston Rice) and Dad (William Franklin Rice) had both been born in Benton, and that was 'home' country to all of us for a long time. We would go to Benton sometimes, to Grandpa (Hiram) Weston's and we would visit Uncle Johnny (Mom's brother-in-law John Sanders.) His wife, Mom's sister (Arel Minnie Weston Sanders,) died young and he married again and had another house full of kids. He was a Baptist Preacher.
"Grandpa would always come to the train and meet us with an old white horse named Barney, and he would always be like a whirlwind and when we would start home he would let Barney take to the road, and we would be sitting there scared to death because he was going so fast. We always had a good time out there. He married Aunt Sade some time after Mom married Dad. She was good to us like she was really our grandmother, and I guess we were an aggravation to her. They had a room at the back that used to be Aunt Sade's son's (by a former marriage) who was lost in the war (WW1.) I forget his name. We were away from where Grandpa stayed a lot. He sat on the porch and would rock and sing. He never did any work at all. That boy did the farming and all until he had to go to war."
Hiram lived in Benton, aged 75, when he declared for a pension. He died quite suddenly on New Year's Day 1920. His widow, Sarah, age 57, of West City, Franklin County, applied for a pension, 12 February 1920. Sarah died 9 October 1938.
Children:
Ida May Kelsay, daughter of Joseph Lafayette Kelsay, Sr. and Martha Marcus, was born 8 November 1880, in Pueblo, Colorado.
She was married in 1898 in Pueblo, Colorado, to Franklin B Davies, who was born in 1893 in Baldwin County, Pennsylvania. She died 25 April 1956, in Los Angeles, California, and was buried in Santa Monica Mausoleum. He was buried with her.
Children:
Charles William Kelsay, son of Joseph Lafayette Kelsay, Sr. and Martha Marcus, was born 13 May 1883, in Williamsburg, Colorado. After his parents were divorced, Charley was raised by his Kelsay grandparents. Later he lived with his mother and step-father for a time.
He was married 9 June 1903, in Pueblo, Colorado, to Mary Jane Walpole, who was born 11 September 1881, at St. Louis, Missouri, daughter of Patrick Walpole and Mary Jane O'Neil.
About this time he became acquainted with his father in Cannon City, Colorado. He and his wife took care of Nora at the time his sister Harriett was born. Charley worked many years for Wells Fargo, and later for Armor, where his lungs were gassed.
Mary died suddenly 1 June 1956, at Hayward, California. Charley went to live with his youngest daughter. He died 25 February 1966, in San Francisco. They are both buried in the Holy Sepluchure Cemetery, Hayward, California.
Children:
Bessie Jenny Kelsay, daughter of Joseph Lafayette Kelsay, Sr. and Nora Turner, was born 16 June 1893, in Boise, Idaho.
She was married 29 November 1911, at Medford, Oregon, to Gilbert Clark, who died before 1925.
Bessie then operated a service station and restaurant with her mother, until she was married to George Cates.
Later Bessie had a house moved onto the original Kelsay land about three miles from Redding, California. She was still living there in 1975.
Children:
Joseph Lafayette Kelsay Jr., known as "Bee," son of Joseph Lafayette Kelsay Sr. and Nora Turner, was born 16 September 1894, in Moore's Creek, Elmore County, Idaho.
He was married 21 April 1917, in Redding, California, to Florence Conklin. They were divorced.
Children:
Harriet Kelsay, daughter of Joseph Lafayette Kelsay, Sr. and Nora Turner, was born 16 January 1905, in Cannon City, Colorado. As a young girl she walked 7 miles to school every day with her sister from the old Kelsay home place near Redding, California. She left school at the age of 12 and went to work in a laundry.
Her first husband apparently died about 1925, because when her mother came back to Redding at that time to live on the home place, she stated her husband was dead then and she went to live with her mother, until she married Peter Mantis on 6 July 1926, in Napa, Sonona County, California.
Peter was born in Greece and came to America at the age of 17. He was a finish carpenter and spent much time in his gardens, building several houses as rental property. Harriett's health required her to live on baby food.
They retired in 1965 and moved to one of their favorite houses on 720 Locust Street in Redding. Peter discovered that he had cancer, but surgery and treatments did him no good. He hung himself in June of 1974.
The next year Harriett and her sister Bessie became very close and took several trips together visiting their kinfolk. Harriett was very interested in genealogy and is the source of much of the information about this family.
Harriett became ill and was mistakenly convinced she had cancer like her mother and husband. On 18 February 1976, Harriett closed her garage door and started her car, taking her own life.
Children:
Burton R. Kelsay, son of William Brown Kelsay and Clara A., was born 9 June 1881, in Mountain Fork, Polk County, Arkansas.
He was married 17 February 1903, to 18 yr old Emma Nichols. They were both living in 1935. Their sons Bill and Sog were moonshiners. They were all dead in 1990 except Hazel's wife, Ola.
Children:
Mary Kelsay, daughter of William Brown Kelsay and Clara A. __, was born 20 December 1886.
She was married 17 February 1903, in Polk County, Arkansas, to J. W. Fields. He was 25 and from Mountain Fork also. Mary was living in 1935, in Big Cedar, Texas.
Children:
Rev. Henry Kimbrough Kelsay, son of Henry Sheppard Kelsay and Matilda Stockton McKinley, was born 17 July 1884, in Vernon County, Missouri.
He was married 26 August 1913, in Vernon County, to Anna Pearl Hale. Henry, who was over six foot tall, became an ordained Baptist minister although ill health prevented his preaching for many years before his death.
He died 27 January 1970, at Clinton, Missouri; Anna died 3 July 1987 at Appeton City. Both buried in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery near Dederick, Missouri.
Children:
Alfred G. Sheppard, son of William M Sheppard and Sarah J. Campbell, was born 26 June 1881, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He married in 1903 to Lucy B. Sheppard, daughter of Philip F. Sheppard and Deborah Lathborn of Cedarville.
He graduated Maryland Medical College at Baltimore, in 1907. The children were all born there. They later resided in Florence, New Jersey. He was a member of the Burlington County Medical Society, State Medical Society, and the American Medical Association, a Baptist, and a democrat.
Children:
Eben Wallen Sheppard, son of Joel Fithian Sheppard and Hannah A. Wallen, was born 7 May 1860, in Greenwich, New Jersey, and raised in Braintree, Massachusetts.
He was married to Fannie M Pratt, daughter of Asa Pratt and Mercy Clapp.
In 1882 he came to Quincy to engage in the retail coal business in partnership with his father and brother. He was a well-known and highly respected business-man of Quincy. A republican, he was Representative from his district in the General Court in 1899, 1900, and 1901. He was a member of the Union Congregational Church of Weymouth, but attended the Bethany Congregational church of Quincy. He was a director of the Quincy C0-operative Bank, Free Masons, Royal Arch Masons, Knights Templar, Mystic Shrine.
Children:
William Thomas Kelsay, son of George Samuel Kelsay and Frances Elizabeth Dunbar, was born 14 May 1879 in Russell County, Kentucky, and died 1945, in Jamestown, Russell County, Kentucky.
He was married 12 November 1905, Somerset, Pulaski County, Kentucky, to Bessie Franklin Ashley (born 6 November 1886, Somerset, Pulaski County, Kentucky, died 1 April 1952, Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana)
Children:
Harvey Nathan Reno, son of Tabitha Ellen Fitzjarrell and Christopher Columbus Reno, was born 23 March 1877, in Civil Bend, Davies County, Missouri.
He was married/1 to Ida Corcorn.
He was married/2, 19 January 1919, in Pattonsburg, Davies County, Missouri, to Mae Yocum who died 18 March 1967. Harvey died 13 March 1971, both in Osburn, Clinton County, or DeKalb County, Missouri. (County borders may have changed.)
Children:
Francis Elbert Miller, son of Emma Fitzjarrell and Martin Alonzo Miller, was born 22 October 1885, in Raymond, Montgomery County, Illinois.
He was married 1 September 1909, in Dalatin, Davies County, Missouri, to Lillie Eunice Williams, who was born 12 August 1888, in Pattonsburg, Davies County, Missouri.
Francis died 21 May 1916, in Coffee, Davies County
Children:
Jeanette Weston, daughter of Laura Ann Ellers Skeen and Hiram Weston, was born 11 September 1868, in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois.
She was married 12 September 1886, in Franklin County, to Henry Malone, born February 1868, in Perry, Illinois. son of Edwin Malone and Minda L Lipe.
Jeanette died 4 November 1903
The children were born in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois.
Children:
Ariel Minnie Weston, daughter of Laura Ann Ellers Skeen and Hiram Weston, was born 10 January 1871, in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois.
She was married 23 December 1893, Franklin County, to John J Sanders, born about 1870, in Williamson County, Illinois. She died 12 December 1904.
Children:
Margaret Elizabeth Weston, daughter of Laura Ann Ellers Skeen and Hiram Weston, was born 4 September 1872, Benton, Franklin County, Illinois, died 23 July 1918.
She was married 20 December 1889, in Franklin County, to Charles Franklin Mosley, who was born 1867, Franklin County, Illinois, son of George B Mosley (born 1838, Tennessee) and Martha Ann Turner, born in Kentucky.
The birth order of the children is uncertain. (The years of the birth of these children cannot be correct, or this is not the right list of children.
Children:
John Edgar/Edward Weston, son of Laura Ann Ellers Skeen and Hiram Weston, was born 15 April 1874, in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois.
He was married 15 November 1894, in Jonesboro, Union County, Illinois, to Anna Otelia Schaffer, who was born 18 April 1870, in Jonesboro. Her father was born in Germany, her mother was born in Illinois. John and Anna were divorced.
Anna was married/2 to Ed Butler. She was age 50 on the 1920 Census; Ed was 45. Her son Cedric, his wife & daughter, were living with them. She died 12 January 1938, in Jonesboro, Union County, Illinois.
A butcher, John was married/2 on 1 August 1900, in Marion, Williamson County, Illinois, to Lula Mae Holland, who was born 18 March 1878, Johnston City, Williamson County They were living in Marion, Williamson County, Illinois, on the 1910 Census. At the time of the 1920 Census, There were 5 roomers listed with them, and their 2 children. John had a livery stable, and Lula liked to have high-stepping horses.
John died suddenly of a heart problem on 6 April 1936, in Carterville, Williamson County Illinois. He was buried at Hill Crest Cemetery, in Carterville. Lula died 22 November 1960, in Marion, Williamson County, Illinois.
Children:
Emma Caroline Weston, daughter of Laura Ann Ellers Skeen and Hiram Weston, was born 11 November 1876, in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois. Emma was the youngest girl, and helped "in the field," quite a bit as a child. She attended a 1-room country school through the 6th grade.
She was married 17 September 1893, in Benton, to William Franklin Rice. After Frank paid the minister, he had one dollar left.
Brooks Rice (died about 1882) and Margaret Bailey, (died about 1884 were both born in Franklin County, Illinois
Brooks' childrenFrank and his sisters were cared for by Taylor Garret and Margaret Summers Garrett. (Aunt Peg?)
There were many chores, but limited food and clothing for the children. Frank had only 1 pair of boots at a time, which, on a growing boy, were most of the time, too small. His boots were hand made with the soles attached with small wooden pegs. When they got wet, by the time the leather dried, they were difficult to wear. Frank went barefoot all summer, until he was grown. He had rabbit traps, which were "run" each morning. During cold weather, he would take hot rocks with him to stand on while he tended each trap. Frank received a 5th grade education, but he read a lot and obtained general knowledge for himself. As soon as he was old enough to make his own way, he worked as a farmhand and any other work he could get.
When Barney and Artie were small, the family moved to Poplar Bluff, Missouri, in a wagon with his sister Rhoda and her husband, who persuaded them that farming was easier there, and more profitable. It was not. The only work Frank could find was cutting railroad ties for a dollar a day. It was necessary to leave the two small boys at home alone parts of some days in order that Emma could assist her husband with some phase of the work. Their house was made of logs, with 1 room, with a pot-bellied stove. The floor was split logs, rough, and not very weather-proof. Emma sewed together burlap bags (then called tow-sacks) for a rug, dyed with poke-berry juice. A year later they returned to Benton, where he worked as a farmer.
In 1902, they moved to Johnston City, Williamson County, Illinois, where Frank worked in a coal mine. It was hard and dangerous work with few safety measures. Frank sustained a serious back injury, and later, a head injury from falling coal. The cloth caps had a bill on which were hooked their lamps. Early, these teakettle shaped lamps burned a wick in wax. The later carbide lamps also used an open flame, which made the men vulnerable to violent explosions.
Entire summers, they were on strikes, with no income. Frank was secretary of the "Local." During one of the periods, the mine managers disregarded the strike action and imported laborers who were mostly uninformed, uneducated, often Italians, who could not speak or understand English. This became known as a "bloody vendetta." Books have been written about this uprising, especially "Bloody Williamson County" Frank worked as a special police during this outbreak.
He served as City Alderman on 2 different occasions, which paid him $25 every 3 months. He also served as County Overseer of the Poor, which was a farm of county welfare. He liked people and had many friends. He made it a practice never to say things against others. He liked to fish and hunt, especially wild squirrels, and would often be in the woods by daylight. The family and their friends would go on overnight fishing trips together. He was active in the Odd Fellows Lodge, and attended the Methodist church.
Their house on Missionary Street, had a large yard, where the neighborhood children congregated to play, at night under a streetlight. They went to the Post Office for their mail.
Frank and Emma belonged to a social club, which gave her a silver thimble with a good band, which she used the rest of her life. She made all the children's clothes, including coats and suits. By sewing weeks in advance, each child had a new outfit to wear to Sunday School at Easter time. She supplemented the income, by sewing for others many years.
As she sewed, she entertained her children by singing all the old songs she knew, and reciting poetry. She memorized poems for theis purpose and to keep her mind agile. She loved to read and encouraged her children to read also, always insisting on good literature.
Early in 1914, Barney enlisted in the Navy; Artie joined the Army in 1917; Harry joined the Navy in 1923, In 1914, the family purchased a house on Holland Stree, which later became the State Highlway. The house had numerous porches, a lawn with large trees, a grape arbor, and fruit trees. A well furnished water, a cistern soft water. A small back shed "the wood house," was used for storage. Heating and cooking was done with coal. Washing, canning, and many activities took place on the back porch. Washing was done on a hand-turned machine, and a washboard. Emma made a large porch swing out of an old bedstead. The large barn housed chickens; its loft, with a trapese, was a play space for the children. In the chicken yard, Frank constructed a "Flying Jenny," a sort of merry-go-round, which attracted all the neighborhood children.
On hot summer evenings, Emma would accompany her own children and others out to a large mine pond for swiming. Parents sat on the bank to oversee the children. Holidays were something special. Even if there was no money for toys and gifrs, there was always something to make Christman special, doll clothes, candy, an orange, or nuts. At Easter, there was always a "nest" with colored eggs. On the fourth of July the family and neighbors would celebrate with fire-works.
About 1920, Emma and Frank separated, but never divorced. He moved to a small community, Hurt-Bush, built for the Bush mine, and joined the Masonic Lodge. In 1928 he went to Mad, a suburb of Chicago, where in worked in a factory, and lived with his daughter, Beulah. In 1934, he bought a house and 90 of farmland in Pope County, southern Illinois. Beulah then lived 3/4 mile across the way. In 1935, his son, Barney, who had tuberculosis, came to live with him, and passed away the following March.
In September 1938, Beulah's husband was killed by lightning, and she moved back to Johnston City. It was an isolated area, Barney lived alone, but his children were able to visit him at least once a month. He was content. He raised chicken, sold eggs, milked cows, walked 3-4 miles to visit friends and help with chores. He had no electricity, but had a battery-powered radio. Except in bad weather, he rode weekly with his neighbors to the little country town of Eddyville, to pick up supplies and mail.
Each succeeding year after the separation became more difficult financially for Emma. All but the two youngest children were grown by then. In April 1919, Emma took Verbal, went to Maywood, a suburb of Chicago, both worked in a factory, but they returned to the family home in September, so Verbal could finish high school. Emma cooked in a restaurant, worked in a rooming house- all for a dollar a day. In 1935, for 5 months she worked as a maid in Maywood. During WWII, she cared for children in various needy homes, sewed in a Community Sewing Room. She made and served hot lunches to teachers (the school was 2 blocks away,) -for 35 cents a person, which supplied just enough cash to pay the electric bill.
In 1939, she was able to stop working outside the home. She painted, varnished, reupholstered, wallpapered, hooked rugs, embroidered, crocheted, kept gardens and chickens, and did her own carpentry. She belonged to the Rebecca Lodge, holding all the offices, attended the Baptist Church, and Tabernacle.
In early 1945, Frank became ill with stomach cancer. The family moved him from the hospital to the family home in Johnston City. He died 23 July 1945, and was buried in the IOOF Cemetery in Benton. The heritage he left his children was one of uncomplaining acceptance and adjustment to life, and great, great courage.
Emma had excellent health till her terminal illness. She suffered from gastric cancer for 1 year, and died 4 May 1947, in Johnston City, and was buried in the IOOF Cemetery in Benton.
Children:
Donald Joseph Kelsay, son of Charles William Kelsay and Mary Jane Walpole, was born 16 January 1904, in Pueblo, Colorado.
He was married April 1924, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Maude Perry, who was born 16 September 1881.
He died in Pueblo 1 July 1935, buried block 29, Roselawn Cemtery. She died 1 January 1973, in Pueblo.
The children were all born in Colorado.
Children:
Hugh Patrick Kelsay, son of Charles William Kelsay and Mary Jane Walpole, was called H. P. by all the family. He was born 8 February 1909, in Cannon City, Colorado.
He was married May 1926, in Pueblo, Colorado, to Leona Conley, daughter of Arthur and Eva Conley. They settled near Modesto, California.
He served with U. S. Army Corp of Engineers during World War II, and was stationed in the Philippines and other places. He worked and lived in North Surrey, British Columbia, for a few years while working on installation of the pipeline across Canada. He had a 40 acre ranch on Monte Vista Road, Ceres County, California where his wife and his daughter and her family still reside. (1997)
Hugh died at Ceres, California, 19 August 1970, and was interned in the cemetery at Turtlock, California.
Children:
Mary Elizabeth Kelsay, daughter of Charles William Kelsay and Mary Jane Walpole, was born 3 December 1919, in Trinidad, Colorado.
She was married 22 November 1941 in Alameda, California, to John Henry Heitman, who was born 21 June 1909 in Berkley, California, the son of Carl Gebhardt Heitman and Sara Rameron.
Henry enlisted U. S. Marine Corp 1925 to 1929. Reenlisted Marine Corp Reserve until 1934. He was a Master Mechanic for Deisel Railroad engines for Western Pacific Railroad, specifically Alameda Belt Line, Alameda, California until time of his death.
He died in St Joseph's Hospital, San Francisco, California and was interned at Holy Septemberulchre Cemetery, Hayward, California.
From Jim Ott:
    "After Henry's death, Betty moved to a duplex in Alameda where she still resides. Address: 1813 Third Street Alameda, California 94501; Telephone still 522-2632
    "She is presently looking for a small senior citizen home or apartment complex so is planning to sell the duplex and move. Her arthritis is getting to a point where she cannot do all the desired and necessary things of life. 9/24/97 received word Betty in hospital past two days. Had Engina Attack."
Children:
Catherine Norma Kelsay, daughter of Charles William Kelsay and Mary Jane Walpole, was born 23 June 1923 in Pueblo, Colorado.
She was married 11 July 1942, in Reno, Nevada, to Franklin James Green, who was born 25 June 1920, Scotts Bluff, Nebraska, son of James William Green, born 28 February 1898, Iuka, Illinois, and Catherine K Kuntz, born 10 December 1890, in Germany-Russia.
Franklin Green and his family resides at 510 Washington, Dixon, California. 95620
He is a Veteran of U. S. Navy, World War II, aboard USS Maryland, a battleship tied up in Pearl Harbor during the attack on 7 December 1941. He retired from the Navy as Senior Chief Petty Officer. He worked for Telephone Company after discharge from Navy; he later worked for Voice of America at transmitting station located in Dixon, California. At time of his retirement, was in charge of the Dixon station.
Children:
Dorothy Loraine Kelsay, daughter of Charles William Kelsay and Mary Jane Walpole, was born 7 October 1927, in Pueblo, Colorado.
She was married 1 February 1946 in Alameda, California, to Leo Emerald Ott, who was born 24 May 1924 in Charleston, South Carolina, son of Emerald Ott and Hazel McMillan.
He served for 20 years in the U. S. Navy, but is now an office manager in Hayward, California. All, but their oldest child, were born in Oakland, California
Children:
Bessie Mae Clark, daughter of Bessie Jenny Kelsay and Gilbert Clark, was born 26 August 1912, in Hilt, California.
She was married/1 15 March 1932 to Duke Fishman. She was married/2 to ___Grafton, and m/3 to ____Sharkley.
Children:
Ernest Bee Kelsay, son of Joseph Lafayette Kelsay, Jr. and Florence Conklin, was born 7 March 1918, in Oakland, California.
He was married/1 29 August 1938, in Oakland, to Edith Belle Reeves, and divorced shortly before 1957.
He was married/2 after 1957, to Mrs. Helen (Carlson) Kelsay, the widow of his younger brother, David Arthur.
Ernest and Helen resided in Redding, California.
Bee died of cancer 22 July 1928, in French Gulch, California outside of Redding, and was buried there.
Children:
David Arthur Kelsay, son of Joseph Lafayette Kelsay Jr., and Florence Conklin, was born 6 March 1920, in Seattle, Washington.
He was married 13 September 1944, Reno, Nevada, toHelen Carlson.
He died 14 August 1957, at the Veteran's Hospital in Napa County California, thus giving evidence of prior military service. He was buried at French Gulch near Redding, California. Helen was married/2 to her brother-in-law, Ernest B Kelsay.
Children:
Beulah Love Mantis, daughter of Harriett Kelsay and Peter Mantis, was born 12 May 1927, in Dunsmuir, California.
She met Leslie E. Wilkinson in Oregon while she was attending college. They were married 6 July 1948 in Redding, California.
He had a job in a saw-mill, but she disliked Oregon, and she talked him into moving to Redding. Her father built them a nice home, and he got into the service station business. In 1974, they were living in Orland, California, and in the Credit Business.
Children:
Hubert Fields, son of Mary Kelsay and J. W. Fields, was born in 1908.
He was married to Jewell ____.
He died 8 March 1976. Jewell was living in 1990 in Whiteboro, Oklahoma, next to her daughter Yvonne.
All of the children were living in August 1990.
Children:
Henry Waldo Kelsay, son of Henry Kimbrough Kelsay and Anna Pearl Hale, was born 18 September 1874, near Dederick, in Vernon County, Missouri.
He was married 15 February 1941, to Mary Fern Klopfenstein. In 1976 they operated the Farmer's Elevator business in Urich, and were very helpful in establishing the Kelsay family history. They retired in 1983, and observed their Golden Wedding Anniversary in 1991.
Children:
Francis Alonzo Miller, son of Francis Elbert Miller and Lillie Eunice Williams, was born 22 October 1885, in Raymond, Montgomery County, Illinois.
He was married 13 May 1930, in Olatha, Johnson County, Kansas, to Ruby Frances Woodcock, born 22 June 1914, in Rosedale, Wyandotte County, Kansas, and died 8 January 1991. He was married/2 on 15 July 1991.
Children:
Cedric Corbal Weston, son of John Edgar/Edward Weston and Anna Otelia Schaffer, was born 7 December 1894, in Jonesboro, Union County, Illinois.
He was married 22 January 1919, in Jonesboro, to Bertha Irene Wiley, born 16 July 1900, in Pope County?, Illinois. They lived with Cedric's mother and stepfather. Cedric was an electrician at the time of the 1920 Census. Bertha died 11 June 1925, in Jonesboro, of a massive heart attack.
Two months later, Cedric married Madie Hinman. She already had 2 daughters, and would have nothing to do with Cedric's children. Cedric placed his 3 children in an orphanage, and then adopted Madie's girls.
His children remained in the orpanage until the children's Aunt, Clara Schaffer Brown, was able to get them. They stayed with her until they were grown.
He died 27 February 1986, in Sullivan, Moultrie County, Illinois.
Children:
Barney Tilbert Rice, Sr, son of Emma Caroline Weston and William Franklin Rice, was born 30 November 1895, in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois.
He was married 6 August 1918, Baltimore, Maryland, to Lula Grace Norman, born 6 March 1901, Balitmore.
Barney died 15 March 1936, of tuberculosis, at the home of his father in Pope County Illinois; Lula died 25 September 1976.
Children:
Artie Tecumseh Rice, son of Emma Caroline Weston and William Franklin Rice, was born 25 March 1898, in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois.
He was married/1 on 9 September ___? to Stelsa Meyers.
A veteran, (Army WWII) Artie left Johnston City, Illinois in 1935. He was married/2 on 13 June 1937 to Melba Lockler. He was the proprietor of the Center Cafe in Richland Center, Wiconsin. He died there 6 May 1961.
Children:
Beulah Gertrude Rice, daughter of Emma Caroline Weston and William Franklin Rice, was born 17 July 1900, in Benton, Franklin County, Illinois.
She was married on 15 March 1919, to Loy Horace Lawrence, who was struck by lightning, and died 10 September 1938, in Eddyville, Illinois.
Beulah was married/2 on 11 November 1941, to Sidney Loden Tweedy. She was married/3 January 1972, to Charles Hall.
Children:
Verbal Marie Rice, daughter of Emma Caroline Weston and William Franklin Rice, was born 30 January 1908, in Johnston City, Williamson County, Illinois. Verbal had a 10th grade education.
She was married 22 May 1926, in Marion, Williamson County to Frank Lucas, who was born 11 July 1905, in Garnsey, Shelby, or Bibb County, Alabama, son of Ed Lucas and Roxie Davis, both born in Alabama.
Frank worked in the coalmines when young, and mostly as a truck driver later. In 1973/4 they lived in Oregon, Illinois, and in 1986 to Watseka, Iroquois County, Illinois, closer to their son Roger. Not long after they were placed into separate nursing homes.
Frank died 27 December 1990 in Watseka, and buried in Daysville Cemetery, Ogle County, Illinois. Verbal died 13 May 1996, bronchopneumonia after a stroke, while living at Prairieview Lutheran Home, in Danforth, Iroquois County, Illinois.
Children:
Sheila Kelsay, daughter of Hugh P. Kelsay and Leona Conley, was born 1 December 1945, probably in Stanislaus County, California.
She was married/1 to Art Milne in 1962; married/2 to Stan Brooks in 1968.
Children:
Richard Ernest Kelsay, son of Ernest Kelsay and Edith Reives (Reeves), was born 29 April 1941, in Redding, California.
He was married 2 August 1962, in Shasta County, California, to Sandra Leah Fugitt, born 17 August 1943, daughter of Granville Fugitt and Amelia Hansen.
Children:
William Ralph Kelsay, son of Henry Waldo Kelsay and Mary Fern Klopfenstein, was born 21 June 1943, in Clinton, Missouri.
He was married 11 December 1964, to Caroline Jeanne Colson. They live on a farm outside of Urich, Missouri.
Children:
James Ray Kelsay, son of Henry Waldo Kelsay and Mary Fern Klopfenstein, was born 28 May 1944, in Clinton, Missouri.
He was married 19 April 1971, to Linda Louise Grasher. In 1976 they lived on a farm near Urich, Missouri, but moved to Garden City, Missouri in the summer of 1990. The children were born in Kansas City, Missouri.
Children:
David Roland Kelsay, son of Henry Waldo Kelsay and Mary Fern Klopfenstein, was born 25 July 1955, in Clinton, Missouri. He attended the William Jewell Baptist College, in Liberty, Missouri, in 1976.
He was married 22 October 1983, to Joyce Elaine Hoplins Figg, who was born 23 August 1948, in Braymer, Caldwell County, Missouri.
He works for the Kansas City Power and Light at Montrose, Missouri.
Children:
Mary Pauline Weston, daughter of Cedic Corbal Weston and Bertha Irene Wiley, was born 10 November 1919, in Jonesboro, Union County, Illinois, and died 23 September 1945, in Jonesboro, of a massive heart attack.
She was married 15 March 1937, in Cobden, Illinois, to Aloys (Ollie) Behrman, a cannery worker, born 29 January 1903, in Lively Grove, Illinois. He died 8 December 1948, in Rochelle, Illinois, when accidently struck by a train. He is buried at St. Anthony's Cemetery in Lively Grove.
John George, and Frederick remained in St. John's Orphanage, in Belleville, Illinois, until graduation from high school.Children:
Edward Eugene (Jiggs) Weston, Sr., son of Cedric Corbal Weston and Bertha Irene Wiley, was born 10 April 1922, in Jonesboro, Union County, Illinois, and died 12 December 1977, in Nashville, Washington County, Illinois.
He was married 20 March 1947, to Christine Pearl Alred.
Children:
Barney Tilbert Rice, Jr., son of Barney Tilbert Rice, Sr. and Lula Grace Norman, was born 3 October 1919, in Baltimore, Maryland.
He was married to Waunita Mae Kosta, born 30 May 1925.
Children:
Emma Elizabeth Justine Rice, daughter of Artie Tecumseh Rice and Stelsa Meyers, was born 29 October 1922. She was married/1 in 1944, to Leslie Decker. She was married/2 1 January 1954, to Elmer Virgil McGinnis, Sr.
Children:
Harold David Rice, son of Artie Tecumseh Rice and Stelsa Meyers, was born 12 December 1926. He was married 25 December 1947, to Beulah Graham.
Children:
Chester Leon Lawrence, son of Beulah Gertrude Rice and Loy Horace Lawrence, was born 26 October 1921. He was married 6 September 1941, to Harriet Marie Owen, born 14 March 1925.
Children:
Larry Horace Lawrence, son of Beulah Gertrude Rice and Loy Horace Lawrence, was born 10 Feruary 1939, in Johnston City, Williamson County, Illinois.
He was married 30 August 1958 to Carol Jo Herber, born 13 March 1942, in Chicago, Illinois.
Children:
Patricia Mae Lucas, daughter of Verbal Marie Rice and Frank Lucas, was born 12 April 1927, in Johnston City, Williamson County, Illinois, moving to Maywood, Illinois, before her second birthday. She worked at Fannie Mae, Candy County, during WWII.
She was married 25 August 1947, Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, to Stanley Irvin Hass, born 15 January 1927, Chicago.
Stan was inducted in 1945, two weeks after high school into the 3rd Army, serving as a tank mechanic and instructor. In 1948, he enrolled in the Elgin (Illinois) Watchmakers' College, then worked in the factory. He later became a salesman, retiring in February 1989.
Pat suffred her 1st mental breakdown 7 months after her marriage while living in California, and had problems the rest of her life. She did exceptional needlework, primarily knitting and needlepoint, and for a few years, about 1974-6, worked part-time at a yarn craft store. She was an active member of a handwork club, and held positions on the board for several years.
In December 1990, they moved to Phoenix, Arkansas. She collapsed suddenly of cardiac failure, and died 3 September 1992. Her body was sent to Mount Emblem Cemetery, Elmhurst, Illinois for burial. In 1995, Stan sold the house and moved in with his friend, Harriet Miller.
Children:
Roger Jerome Lucas, son of Verbal Marie Rice and Frank Lucas, was born 20 June 1919, in Maywood, Illinois.
He was married 22 May 1954, in Maywood, Cook County, Illinois, to Joan Lorraine Niemans, born 2 February 1933, in Melrose Park, Cook County.
Roger was married/2 11 January 1973, to Wanda Morgan.
Children:
Terry Bernard Lucas, son of Verbal Marie Rice and Frank Lucas, was born 8 February 1932, in Melrose Park, Illinois. He was married 10 November 1951, to Virginia Ann Hill, born 2 February 1928, in Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois, and died 17 August 1987, in Elk Grove, Illinois.
Terry was married/2 before 1981, to Elizabeth Pilkowski. He was married/3 on 22 May 1981, to Janet Mitchelic.
Children:
Janet Lee Lucas, daughter of Verbal Marie Rice and Frank Lucas, was born 5 August 1939 in Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois.
She was married 2 April 1960, in Geneva, Kane County, Illinois, to Gordon Ray Banwart, born 2 April 1939, in Elgin, Kane County.
Children:
Ina Jean Behrman Nold, daughter of Mary Pauline Weston and Aloys (Ollie) Behrman, was born 23 August 1943, Jonesboro, Union County, Illinois.
When her mother died in September 1945, her father put her brothers in an orphanage, and she was adopted by the Nold family.
She was married on 28 August 1962, Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois, to Kenneth Schaefer, a factory maintenence man, born 1 August 1940, Belleville.
Children:
Melinda Susan Weston, daughter of Edward Eugene West, Sr., and Christine Pearl Alred, was born 5 October 1947.
She was married/1 to Ronald Ray White. She was married/2 to Jimmie Lynn Clanahan.
Children:
Bonita Katherine Rice, daughter of Barney Tilbert Rioe, Jr. and Lula Grace Norman, was born 25 October 1951.
She was married/1 on 26 June 1977, to Dan Michael Lord, born 29 September 1953.
She was married/2 20 August 1983, to Rodney Paul Matter, born 21 August 1957.
Children:
Michael Leon Lawrence, son of Chester Leon Lawrence and Harriet Marie Owen, was born 31 December 1943, in Illinois.
He was married 20 February 1965, to Veronica Lee Renaud, who was born 25 March 1945.
Children:
Marsha Lynn Lawrence, daughter of Chester Leon Lawrence and Harriet Marie Owen was born 1 September 1951, in Illinois.
She was married 9 February 1971, to Keith Golchert, born 17 December 1950.
Children:
Catherine Elizabeth Hass, daughter of Patricia Mae Lucas and Stanley Irvin Hass, was born 27 April 1950, in Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois. A quiet person, she suffered with asthma, which restricted what she could do.
Mr. False was the father of her first child.
She was married/1 on 15 January 1972 to John Oslund; married/2 on 6 April 1976, in Wheaton, DuPage County, Illinois, to Edward Francis Szudarski. Ed's first wife died after a miscarriage.
Ed worked at AT&T Long Lines where he met Catherine. Ed adopted Liz, and Catherine adopted Ed's sons, Eddie, Sam, and Michael.
Ed retired when he was about 51 years old.
Children:
David Weston Hass, son of Patricia Mae Lucas and Stanley Irvin Hass, was born 26 June 1953, in Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois. He was a band manager in High School, playing several musical instruments. He became a computer expert, having attended the College of DuPage, of Glen Ellyn, Illinois.
He was married 17 August 1974, West Chicago, DuPage County, Illinois, to Norma Langner, born 14 September 1954, Cicero, Illinois, who also attended College of of DuPage, when they began dating.
She held several good computer expert jobs, but the children were sick a great deal, and in 1985 they sought a different climate. Since 1985, they live in Phoenix, Illinois. Norma is a major contributor of The Kelsay Family
Children:
Timothy Weston Banwart, son of Janet Lee Lucas and Gordon Ray Banwart, was born 7 September 1960, in Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois.
He was married 8 April 1981, in Reno Nevada, to Sonja Marie Lucero, born 23 September 1964, San Leandro, Alameda County, California.
Children:
Roxanne Marie Banwart, daughter of Janet Lee Lucas and Gordon Ray Banwart, was born 15 May 1962, in Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania.
She was married/1 15 May 1982, to Jeffrey Todd White, born 5 April 1960, Chestnut Hill.
She was married/2 on 1 January 1989, in Tucson, Pima County, Arkansas, to Gary Arthur Cliff.
Children:
Julia Rose Schaefer, daughter of Ina Jean Behrman Nold and Kenneth Schaefer, was born 23 August 1963, in Belleville, St Clair County, Illinois.
She was married to William James Trimble, who was born 28 September 1963, in Mt Carmel, Illinois. He was christened at St Francisville, Illinois.
A Metallurgical Engineer, he received his BS degree from SIU in Carbondale, Illinois. In 1996, he is working on his MBA from Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois. He worked for the Catapillar County, in Peora, Illinois, in 1991
Children:
Jennifer Joan Schaefer, daughter of Ina Jean Behrman Nold and Kenneth Schaefer, was born 6 February 1966, in Belleville, St Clair County, Illinois.
She was married/1 to Cliff Mather. She was married/2 to Mark Raback. She is a Customer Service Representative.
Children:
Miriam Kelsay, daughter of Rev. Robert Kelsay and Miriam Smith, was born about 1746, in Upper Pittsgrove Township, Salem County, New Jersey; baptized November 1782 Cohansey Church; she was about 10, when her parents joined the Cohansey Church in Bowentown in May 1756.
She was married about 1768 Cumberland County, 2nd wife, to Seth Bowen, who was born 21 July 1748, in Cohansey, Cumberland County, New Jersey, and died in Cumberland County, New Jersey, son of Elijah Bowen and Deborah Swinney. Seth served in the Revolutionary War. See: Bowen Family and Bowen Family 2
Miriam died 30 May 1789, in Cumberland County, New Jersey
Children:
Damaris Kelsay, daughter of Rev. Robert Kelsay and Miriam Smith, was born about 1748, in the township of Upper Pittsgrove, Salem County, New Jersey. Damaris was about 8, when the family home in Salem County burned in April 1756. They moved to the Cohansey Baptist Church parsonage at Bowentown, Hopewell Township, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
About 1775, in Cumberland County, she became the 1/wife of Benoni Dare, son of Elkannah and Elizabeth Dare. They lived in Greenwich in Cumberland County She was baptized & joined the Cohansey Baptist church, March 1782. She died about 1788. After the death of Damaris, Benoni Dare married Rachel Sheppard and moved to Philadelphia where Benoni died before 1803. Rachel also had five children.
The progenitor of the Dare family in South Jersey was Capt. William Dare, who emigrated from the county of Dorset or Somerset, in the south of England about 1680 and built the "Blue Anchor" tavern in Philadelphia, which became the headquarters of William Pennsylvania on the occasion of his landing. Capt. Dare removed to Cumberland County about 1695 and bought 100 acres of land in Fairfield township. He bought more land later, and the Dare family became large land-owners. They were well-to-do financially, and leading men in the community. Capt. William Dare held several public offices.
Children:
Elkannah Dare, also known as Cain, son of Damaris Kelsay and Benoni Dare, was born in 1782, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married in May 1804, probably in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Mary S. Phillips.
He died 26 August 1826. Their children were all born in Pennsylvania, probably in Philadelphia.
Children:
George T. Dare, son of Elkanah Dare and Mary S. Phillips, was born 30 November 1806. A doctor, he practiced medicine at Kirkwood, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
He was married 12 April 1837, to Ann Moffit Dickey, of Hopewell, Pennsylvania, born about 1805, daughter of Colonel D. Dickey.
She died 18 March 1879, Oxford, Pennsylvania.
Children:
Anna M. Dare, daughter of Elkanah Dare and Mary S. Phillips, was born 7 March 1812, in Pennsylvania, probably in Philadelphia.
She married Malon Pursey. The children were all born in Pennsylvania.
Children:
Mary C. Dare, daughter of Elkanah Dare and Mary S. Phillips, was born 30 November 1820, in Pennsylvania, probably in Philadelphia.
She was married/1 to William Whiteside, and secondly to Ezra Kimble, who died in 1851.
The children were born in Pennsylvania.
Children:
Francis Dare, son of Elkanah Dare and Mary S. Phillips, was born 23 April 1823, in Pennsylvania, probably in Philadelphia.
He was married 20 June 1851, to Margaret Anna White.
Children:
Elkanah Osborne Dare, son of Elkanah Dare and Mary S. Phillips, was born 3 May 1827, in Pennsylvania, probably in Philadelphia.
He was married 3 February 1850 to Elizabeth Frank, and lived in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where their children were born.
Elkannah died 27 June 1899, and Elizabeth died 19 February 1919.
Children:
George Strawbridge Dare, son of Dr. George Dare and Ann Moffitt Dickey, was born 23 August 1843, in Pennsylvania.
He was married 20 January 1869 to Mercy Ann Moore, born 1 March 1842, daughter of William and Hannah Moore.
Dr. George Strawbridge Dare graduated Jefferson Medical school in Philadelphia, and in 1874 was practicing medicine in Rising Sun, Maryland.
He died and was buried in Nottingham Church Cemetery, in Cecil County, Maryland. The children were probably born in Maryland.
Children:
George Lincoln Dare, son of Elkanah Osborne Dare and Elizabeth Frank, was born 13 August 1856, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
He was married 17 February 1879, to Sarah C. Black. They lived in Los Angeles, California. He died 8 April 1930. The children were probably born in Pennsylvania.
Children:
Lawrence Elkanah Dare, son of Elkanah Dare and Elizabeth Frank, was born 12 April 1856.
He was married 25 December 1882 to Mary Finninger. He died in New York.
Children:
Mary Lucretia Dare, daughter of Elkanah Osborne Dare and Elizabeth Frank, was born 10 February 1864, in Harrisburgh, Pennsylvania.
She was married 3 November 1887, to Charles Myers. She died 2 December 1929
Children:
John Kelsay, son of Rev. Robert Kelsay and Miriam Smith, was born about 1752, in Upper Pittsgrove Township, Salem County, New Jersey.
He was married to Sarah Paget in Cumberland County, New Jersey between the years 1770 and 1775. They both joined and were baptized in the Cohansey Baptist Church in Cumberland County in November 1782, transferring from Divided Creek Baptist church.
Between the years 1779 and 1781, John Kelsay was a "tax ratable" that owned land in Down Township, Cumberland County. There was some evidence that he might have moved to Cape May County, New Jersey. Not too much is known about this son as he died rather young, 28 March 1788. He is probably buried in Cumberland County. John and Sarah's complete issue is not known. They had at least one son. By a process of elimination we have listed Smith Kelsay as their son.
The 1810 census for Cayuga County, New York, shows John's brother David, and David's two sons, Thomas P and David Jr. Also living near by were John Kelsay II and Thomas (Samuel) Kelsay. These appear most likely to be sons of John.
Children:
William Kelsay, son of John Kelsay and Sarah Paget, was born between the years 1770 and 1775, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married 31 March 1801, in Cumberland County, to Lydia Wright, who was born in 1777 in New Jersey.
Records in Cumberland County, show that William Kelsay purchased some land in Hopewell Township from David Randolph on 13 May 1803. On 10 March 1809, William and Lydia sold some Hopewell land to Henry Rocap.
Shortly after the War of 1812, they moved to Salem Township, Warren County, Ohio. they were living there during the 1820 Ohio census, but about 1825, they bought a farm located in Miami Township, Franklin County, Indiana, and a 80 acre farm located in Bath Township, Franklin County, where they lived until his death, as the 1830 and 1840 Census show.
In 1831, they suffered some embarrassment when one of their daughters had an affair with a man named Hull.
William was a successful farmer, and served as County supervisor of roadwork. In April 1832, William had a new barn raising and his neighbors pitched in with great zeal and helped. He served with great distinction as elected as a School Director in his district in 1832 and 1833.
In 1832, William wrote his will. After 1834, senility began to set in; his mind deteriorated to the point where he was not even aware of his actions. He died in the fall of 1845, in Miami Township, Hamilton County, Ohio. His will was probated 25 February 1846. The original will was destroyed by fire at the Hamilton County Court House on 29 March 1884, but it's contents were preserved in the Court records. The court records are quite lengthy, due to the fact that some of his heirs contested the will on the grounds that he was not of sound mind. It was a long and bitter battle. The will left the farm in Hamilton County, Ohio,, to his eldest son, James, and the farm in Franklin County, Indiana to his youngest son, Joseph. The will misdescribed the location of the farm in Indiana as "Union County." He left a sum of money to his wife and daughters. The daughters were dissatisfied with this and contested the will. However, several witnesses testified that William was of sound mind at the time he wrote his will, and in the end, it's provisions were carried out.
They had at least 6 sons and 2 daughters. On the 1850 Federal Census, Lydia was 73 years old and living with her oldest son, James, in Miami Township, Hamilton County, Ohio. She died in 1855, in Miami Township, Hamilton County, Ohio.
Children:
Smith Kelsay and his wife Lydia Hewit/Huit are found on the 1802 tax list of Downe Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey, later of Hampshire County, Virginia.
Based on indirect evidence, it is most likely that they are the parents of the known brothers and sisters of William. If John was their oldest child, Smith was born probably about 1780, or before. Lydia was a little younger. They would have been married about 1800, but probably a little later, because no marriage record is found for them in the New Jersey marriage records up to 1800, and not in Cumberland County after that.
Lydia may be the daughter of Nathaniel Hewit/Huit, Sr., heir of John Blew. Nathaniel and Charles Hewet/Huit, were listed with Lydia on the deed records of 1804, and were likely her brothers. There was a Rebekah Hewett listed as a member of the Cohansey Church branch at Piles-grove (later Pittsgrove) in Salem County, New Jersey on January 1757. Rev. Robert Kelsay was pastor at the branch in Piles-grove (later Pittsgrove) until he took over the mother Church in Cumberland County on May 18, 1756. There is a strong likely-hood, that Rebecka Hewett was the grandmother of Lydia Hewit, and Rebecka's husband was already deceased in 1757. Smith Kelsay was named after his grandmother's maiden name. (Miriam Smith)
Smith Kelsay and his wife Lydia Hewit/Huit, are found on the 1802 and 1803 tax list of Downe Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey, later of Hampshire County, Virginia
In Cumberland County, we find these deeds:
Smith is found in the 1810 Census of Hampshire County. This county is part of the present day West Virginia.
"Smith Kelsay, pg 12, males, two under 10, one 26-45; females, two under 10, one 16-26" This family structure fits well with the family group sheet of the Kelsay children prepared from the Portage County, Ohio, and subsequent records; the two young males are presumably sons John and Smith, one girl is Jane, leaving one daughter as yet unknown, probably died young.
Smith is in the same location on the 1820 Census.
"Smith Kelsay, page 238, Males, two under 10, two 10-16, one 26-45; Females, three under 10, two 10-16, one 26-45; This leaves three more daughters unaccounted for. One may assume they were born between David in 1814, and 1820. Mary was born in 1823. They moved to Paris Township, Portage County, Nebraska (or Akron, Ohio,) sometime between 1824 when William was born, and 1830.
Smith Kelsay died in Paris Township, Portage County, Ohio 26 February 1836. He left no will.
The probate court records, Case No. 471: 23 February 1836, John Kelsay was appointed administrator of Smith Kelsay, who died leaving a widow and children.
2 April 1836, sale, no Kelsay purchases.
11 August 1841 Lucretia Kelsay mentioned as a receiver of $150. from estate
Smith Kelsay was probably buried in the old cemetery that was located in Paris Township. All of the graves in this old cemetery were dug up and moved to the new, Holly Cemetery, shortly before 1925, in Paris Township. The old graves are in a certain section of Holly Cemetery, but there does not appear to be any stone markers for Smith or Lydia (Hewit) Kelsay. At least their names are not shown on an index of the Holly Cemetery. Sometimes, wooden crosses were placed on graves back in those days, and they rotted away over the years and disappeared. Many times, graves were also marked with a small stone and no inscription on it.
Children:
David Kelsay, farmer, born about 1816, Virginia, was married 2 July 1857, Fremont County, Iowa, to Elizabeth A Blevins, who was born about 1826, in Kentucky.
David was on 1860 Census, Madison Twsp, Fremont County, Iowa; his wife Elizabeth A, was 36; they had a daughter Lavina, age 2, and a daughter Betsy, 2 months old. Their household at that time also included Almeda Blevins, age 11, female, George N Blevins, age 7 male, and Nancy I Blevins, age 7 female. Almeda Blevins was married 21 December 1866, Fremont County, to D. J. Emmerson.
The family appears also on page 7 of the 1870 Census, taken 4 June. All of the children were born in Iowa.
Children:
James Kelsay, son of William Kelsay and Lydia Wright, was born in 1805, in Cumberland County, New Jersey. He inherited the family farm located in Miami Township, Hamilton County, Ohio, and spent the rest of his life there.
The 1850 Ohio census shows him, six children, and his first wife, Amelia, who was born in 1810 in New Jersey, and his mother.
The 1860 Census, shows James, age 56, and his second wife, Lydia, aged 42, born in New Jersey. Their post office was Cleves, and there were still 5 children in the household.
On the 1870 Census, James was 65 years old and still farming. His wife at that time was Milac, age 61, born in New Jersey. Their post office was Cleves, and two of James's daughters were still living with him, plus a boy by the named Henry Hagg, 14 yr old. He may have been a stepson, grandson, or hired hand.
James was not on the 1880 Census, evidently dying before that time. He had 7 children, probably all born to his first wife. The only one that could have born to the second wife, was Abigail. However, the record for the 2nd marriage has not been checked. All of the children were born in Hamilton County, Ohio.
Children:
Joseph Kelsay, son of William Kelsay and Lydia Wright, was born in 1821, in Ohio, probably in Warren County. Joseph grew up on the family farm in Hamilton County, Ohio.
He was married 21 September 1843 in Hamilton County, to Elizabeth M. Allen, who was born 11 September 1825, in Pennsylvania.
Two years later, with their oldest son, they moved to the 80-acre farm he inherited in Bath Township, Franklin, close to the Ohio state line. Because of the family dispute, he was not able to get clear title to the land until 12 August 1857. He sold this land 5 March 1858, and bought a farm in Fugit Township, Decatur County, Indiana. He lived here 11 years, and here seven more children were born.
In the spring of 1869, he loaded his family and possessions into a covered wagon and headed west to Illinois. However, he did not sell the Indiana farm. His son John D. Kelsay was to return later and live and die there. At age 48, Joseph bought land and settled in Johnson Township, Christian County, Illinois, where he farmed the next 16 years.
After a six day illness, Joseph died on 27 July 1885, from hemorrhaging of the bowels. President U. S. Grant was ill at the same time and died 4 days before Joseph. He was buried on the 28th July, in the Pierce Cemetery in Christian County, which was located on the line dividing the Kelsay and William's farms, and was later to be called the Kelsay-Williams Cemetery. It is located east of Morrisonville, Illinois within a field about 1/3 mile west of the Nokomis road, and is now in deplorable shape. Their son, Daniel M. Kelsay was Administrator of his father's estate. Elizabeth died 22 October 1903, and was buried beside her husband.
Children:
John Kelsay, son of Smith Kelsay and Lydia Hewet (Huit) was born 1802, or 1806, in Cumberland County, New Jersey; A farmer, he was married 22 November 1827 to Sarah Ann Case, who was born about 1797 in Pennsylvania.
On 20 December 1827, in Paris Township, Portage County, Ohio, John contracted to buy property in the Connecticut Western Reserve, 50 acres, for $100. He received the deed 28 May 1836. The next 17 September, he then sold the place to his brother Robert, who received the deed on 20 December 1837. The same 17 September, he sold a 25 acre plot for $1000. Was he getting ready to move? None of the brothers were on the 1840 Census for Indiana.
John and Sarah Ann appear on the 1850 Census of Madison County, Indiana, with the two Wellington children that they took into their home to raise. They lived in Grant County, Indiana; and in 1860 in Fremont County, Iowa. They did not appear in the 1870 Census there.
Children:
Jane Kelsay, daughter of Smith Kelsay and Julia Hewet (Huit), was born in 1807, in Hampshire County, Virginia.
She was married 18 April 1826, to John Gano, who was born about 1800 in Virginia. The family appears on the 1850 Census of Paris Township, Portage County, Ohio, with real estate valued at $3000. At that time Jane's sister Mary (age 27) was with them.
The children were all born in Portage County.
Children:
Hannah Kelsay, daughter Smith Kelsay and Lydia Hewit, was born 12 February 1807, in Hampshire Countyof died 8 April 1889, in Bryon, Williams County, Ohio.
She was married 29 March 1827, to Horatio Calvin, who was born 1 November 1803, in Loudoun, Virginia
David Calvin, born 18 June 1775, Bethleham, Hunterdon County, New Jersey, died l3 January 1854, Williams County, Ohio, son of Joshua Calvin and Sarah Opdyke
and Catherine McDaniel born 15 May 1778, Loudoun, Virginia, died 21 September 1870, Pulski, Williams County, Ohio - 12 children, See: Calvin Family
Hannah and Horatio, both, died 28 April 1854, Williams County, Ohio.
Children:
Robert Kelsay, son of Smith Kelsay and Lydia Hewet (Huit) was born 1812/3, Hampshire County, Virginia, and moved as a child with his family approximately 1827 to Paris Township, Portage County, Ohio.
He was married/1 6 September 1832, to Hannah Lorella Enos (Enoe). The two were divorced, and he granted her Lot 9, in Edinburgh Township, for $1., deed dated 17 September 1836, which she received 8 May 1838. On 17 September 1836, he bought a piece of land from his brother, John, and received title to it 20 December 1837.
He was married/2 24 March 1842, to Hannah Minyoung, who was born about 1820 in Pennsylvania. He bought another property in Paris Township, 19 June 1843. On 17 April 1848, they sold a 50-acre tract in Paris Township, to which his brother William was a witness.
Robert appears on the 1850 Census of Van Buren Township, Madison County, Indiana, as a stone mason. He is still there on the 1860 Census, but is listed as a farmer, with real estate valued at $3000. and personal property at $2000. At that time his nephew Smith Kelsay (stonecutter) was in his household. His four oldest children were recorded as having had one year of school. He died in Madison County
Children:
David Kelsay, son of Smith Kelsay and Lydia Hewet (Huit), was born in 1814, Hampshire County, Virginia, moving as a child with his family approximately 1827, to Paris township, Portage County, Ohio.
He was married 15 September 1833 to Mary (Polly) McDaniel, who was born about 1818 in Ohio. They appear on the 1850 Census of Grant County, Indiana, where he is listed as a stonecutter.
Children:
William Kelsay, son of Smith Kelsay and Lydia Hewet, was born in 1824, in Hampshire County, Pennsylvania, now a part of West Pennsylvania.
William obtained a marriage license on 30 March 1842, and was married 3 April 1842, in Marion, Grant County, Indiana, by acting Justice of the Peace, Soloman Parsons, Esquire, to Mary Ann Edgerton. Parsons recorded the marriage on the 27 April.
William had a brother, John Kelsay, who was a witness at their wedding, who was a resident of Madison Township, Fremont County Iowa, in July 1863, and swore to the above facts, when Mary applied for a widow's pension. Samuel Edgerton, Mary Ann's brother, was also a witness. This marriage was recorded 11 November 1842, Back Creek Monthly Meeting, near Marion. (See Back Creek Monthly Meeting records, Vol. 3. Quaker Encyclopedia) Mary Ann was noted as having married contrary to discipline, because they had been married by a Justice of the Peace, but not that she was dismissed from membership. However, on 16 February 1843, she joined the Methodists, and then the following November she joined another society, and then in January 1844, the Friends dismiss her.
Mary Ann was born in 1824, near Darby Creek Monthly Meeting, Quaker Church, in Logan County, Ohio, daughter of Part II E, Thomas Edgerton and Mary Osborn
The only record of William in Portage County was when he witnessed his brother's sale of a piece of ground in Paris Township on 17 April 1848. William and Mary Ann, and family, appear on the 1850 Census Grant County, Indiana, where is is listed an engraver. They moved to Sidney, Fremont County, Iowa, about 1852, and appear on the 1860 Census there. The homestead filing shows that their property was lots in the city. William was listed on that Census as a lawyer. At that time, they had living with them Mary J. Chapman, age 33, born Pennsylvania; George Chapman, age 17, farmer, born Iowa; Edwin Chapman, age 3, born in Kansas.
From the History of Fremont County, Iowa, page 451, we find:
   Page 451, August Election 1854. "A proposition was submitted to the voters "Wether or not the county of Fremont will aid in the construction of a railroad from Ft. Madison, on the Mississippi river, via Bloomfield and Sidney, to a point on the Missouri river opposite old Fort Kearney." also a special election to fill a vacancy in the office of sheriff. In the abstract of the canvass, For Fremont County Prosecuting Attorney: Wm. Kelsay ... 222; M K Skidmore ... 73.
On page 452, In the election of of 1856, for the State Representative of the 13th District, Wm Kelsay..323, and John McKillop. . .187.
Page 458, William was listed as being 2nd in the history to serve in the office of County Prosocuting Attorney
Page 459, William was 4th to serve as State Representitive.
   William died during the Civil War. He entered the service of the United States, as a volunteer, on or about the 15th day of September 1861, in Omaha, in the Territory of Nebraska, as a First Lieutenant of Company A, commanded by Captain M. Patrick, in the "Nebraska Cavalry," (which said company afterwards became Company A in the Regiment of "Curtis Horse," comamnded by Colonel Lowe) And who was afterwards Captain, and then Major William Kelsay of Company A, "Curtis Horse," He turned up in Fort Henry, Tennessee, on 2 February 1862, and was listed as a member of the 5th Regiment, of Iowa Calvary Volunteers. He died at Fort Heiman, Kentucky, on 28th February 1862; the cause of death was listed as Typhoid Pnuemonia. The present day Fort Heiman is in Calloway County, and partly submerged in Lake Kentucky. It is possible that the graves were moved to Fort Donelson, Tennessee, where there is a National Cemetery. A recent inquiry there did not find his name listed there, but they had many unmarked graves. The government could not give more information.The family tradition, which is in complete error, says that he died at sea, and was buried at sea. It seems strange that none of the family ever had a record of his being an officer, or knowledge of his service. Mary Ann was known to be bitter, likely, because he volunteered for service, and that she was left a widow with a family to raise. It appears that her daughter Amanda died shortly after her father.
In the 1870 Census of Fremont County, Iowa, page 4, line 36, City Fisher, 24 June 1870, we find Mary, age 36, born Ohio, and in her household are her sons, Samuel and John, daughter Mary, and a boy Marcus Kelsay, age 11, born Iowa. He was not a son of Mary, and too old to be a grandson.
In the 1880 Census of Benton Township, of Fremont County, Iowa, Mary Ann was living with her daughter Sarah Ann and family. She sold some land there in 1883, not long before she and Sarah left.
Mary Ann received her last pension check (Pension # 1481, Certificate 33809) of $25., on 4 March 1889. She died shortly thereafter, was then dropped from the rolls. She died at the home of her son Samuel in Norcatur, Norton County, Kansas, just south of the Nebraska border. She is buried in the Norcatur Cemetery, on the County Line toward Clayton. A flat stone says "Mrs. Kelsay 1889." Her Death Certificate records her death as 24 May 1889, that all she possessed was $75., that she had saved from her widow's pension, and that her daughter Sarah Ann was appointed the administrator.
Fremont County, Iowa, land records Book C, 1. Page 597: filed 29 August 1859, instrument-25 August 1859, recorded 31 August 1859 land purch. by William Kelsay and Mary A. Kelsay
2. Page 658: filed-10 November 1859, instrument-29 October 1859, recorded-10 November 1859 land sold by William Kelsay and Mary A. Kelsay
3. Book E. page 65, filed- 24 April l861, instru-3 December 1860, recorded-25 April 1861 land sold by William Kelsay and Mary Ann Kelsay
4. Mary Ann Kelsay wife of William Kelsay, homestead in Sidney, Iowa, in the absence of William
5, Bk I, pg 539 filed 14 August 1867, instru-14 August 1867, rec.-19 August 1867 Mary A. Kelsay
6. 1883, Mary Ann Kelsay, sold some land, probably the "Homestead"
Children:
James F. Kelsay, son of James and Amelia Kelsay, was born August 1843, in Miami Township, Hamilton County, Ohio. He was married in 1869/70, to Sarah Jane (her surname was probably Pounder), who was born in Ohio in December 1844, daughter of parents who were born in Ohio.
James and Sarah Ann were residing on the Jordan Creek Road, in Miami Township, Hamilton County, Ohio, on the 1870 Census, and had a young man, James Pounder, with them. They were there on the 1880 Census, and had a 22 year old manservant by the name of William W. Reddish. They were still there on the 1900 Census, with John R., Amelia, and Orrie still living at home. The children were all born in Hamilton County.
Children:
Robert Kelsay, son of Joseph Kelsay and Elizabeth M. Allen, was born in 1844, in Hamilton County, Illinois. He grew up on the farm in Bath Township, Franklin County, Indiana. He was married 2 August 1871 in Franklin County, to Mary E. Alford, who was born 17 February 1851, in Indiana, daughter of John Alford and Anna Shoff.
Robert and Mary moved to Johnson County, Illinois, shortly after their marriage. On 29 December 1874, they bought 40 acres in Christian County, Illinois. By the time of the 12 June 1880 Census, they were living in North Okaw Township, Coles County, Illinois.
Robert had a very serious kidney condition and he and his family returned to Christian County. He died 19 October 1881, at Palmer, in Christian County, and is buried in the Pierce Cemetery.
Mary was married/2 to 22 November 1882, at Palmer to Edgar Thomas. She died 21 May 1890, and is buried at Palmer.
Children:
William H. Kelsay, son of Joseph Kelsay and Elizabeth M. Allen, was born 27 June 1847, in Bath Township, Franklin County, Ohio.
He was married/1 on 14 December 1870, in Greensburgh, Decatur County, Indiana, to Sarah E. Lowe, who was born in 1847 (probably in Indiana). She died in childbirth 19 October 1871, in Christian County, Illinois, the baby, Albert, with her. They are buried in the Pierce Cemetery.
William was married/2 on 3 October 1872, in Christian County, to Francis A. Coffey, who born in 1854, in Illinois. William adopted her 3 yr old illegitimate daughter, Josephine.
In 1879, the family went west to Jefferson County, Colorado, where Francis' parents lived. Sometime between 1880 and 1884, Josephine moved into the home of her Coffey grandparents, and Robert moved the rest of his family to Springfield, Missouri.
William was a carpenter and a farmer. He bought land on 19 January 1888, and on 4 March 1890, near Rogersville, Green County, Missouri. William died 3 June 1923, and Francis died in 1931, both in Rogersville, and both buried in the Dodson Cemetery, surrounded by a wire fence, and well cared for. The Kelsay graves are at the front of the Cemetery (2nd row) near the blacktop.
Children:
John D. Kelsay, son of Joseph Kelsay and Elizabeth M. Allen, was born in May 1850, in Bath Township, Franklin County, Ohio. At 19, his parents moved from Decatur County, Indiana, to Johnson Township, Christian County, Illinois.
He was married 13 September 1873, to Octavia Culley, born about 1850 in Illinois, living next door to Joseph and Elizabeth.
Octavia died in 1879, after her last childbirth, and was probably buried near Palmer, Christian County. She had purchased 15 acres in 1876 in Palmer.
On the 1880 Census, John was living with his two surviving daughters in Johnson Township, Christian County. On 9 March 1882, John bought land from the heirs of Elizabeth J. Williams. The Kelsay and Williams families enjoyed a very close relationship, residing on adjoining farms, and thus the cemetery that connected their farms. On 9 August 1890, John bought land from J. S. Williams, in Christian County.
Somewhere between 1891 to 1898, John returned to Decatur County, Indiana. He was married again, to Anna M Coombs, born October 1839, daughter of Jacob Coombs, born March 1817, in Indiana.
On 4 March 1898, John and Annie, daughter Maggie, and daughter Abbie and her husband, Jasper Boling, were living in Fugit Township, Decatur County. On that date, John sold his land in Christian County to his younger sister, Mary Ann Beaman and her husband Henry. On the 1890 Census of Fugit Township, we find John, age 50; Anna, age 60; In the same household were daughter Abbie Boling; daughter Maggie Kelsay; mother Elizabeth; father-in-law Jacob Coombs; sister-in-law June Coombs, age 52, born September 1847, Indiana; and Se August Zeigler, age 21, born April 1879, Indiana.
John died 10 August 1907, probably buried in Decatur County, Indiana. He owned 160 acres of good Indiana farmland.
Anna died in 1927, Decatur County. Her will was probated 17 September 1927, Executor, Joseph Kramer.
"Gives to each of nieces, Lena Buell (formerly Lena Higon) and Lieurissa Shepherd (formerly Lieurissa Higdon), daughters of my sister, Mary Higdon, the sum of $25. Bequeath to step-daughters, Abbie Boling and Maggie Humphrey all the rest of estate providing they care for my sister, June Coombs, if she survives me. My said sister, June Coombs, having means to support herself, my said daughters, Abbie Boling and Maggie Humphrey shall not be charged with her support, but shall only be required to provide comfortable home and personal care and attention." A note filed with the Will stated: "Decedent was 2nd childless wife of John D. Kelsay, who died the owner of the above real estate, leaving children surviving. Decedent was therefore the owner of an undivided 1/3 of said real estate for her natural life and at her death, the same passed to the children of said Kelsay and her interest was of no value at the time of her death." The Court ruled that John's two daughters would inherit all of his real estate regardless of what their step-mother's will said. The girls were all born, Johnson Township, Christian County, Illinois
Children:
Mary Ann Kelsay, daughter of Joseph Kelsay and Elizabeth M. Allen, was born 5 February 1865, in Fugit Township, Decatur County, Indiana.
She was married 22 November 1883, at the home of her parents in Christian County, Illinois, to Henry M Beaman, a farmer who was born 3 October 1861, in Owen County, Indiana, the son of Samuel Beaman and Sinna Hodge.
Henry died 10 January 1921, and Mary Ann died 8 September 1943, both in Christian County, Illinois. Both are buried in the Antioch Cemetery in Morrisonville, Illinois.
The children were all born in Greenwood, Christian County, Illinois.
Children:
David Calvin, son of Hannah Kelsay and Horatio Calvin, was born 10 February 1828 in Portage, County, Ohio.
He was married, to Rebecca McGowan, who was born 20 October 1834, in Portage County, Ohio, who was the daughter of John McGowan (1806-1863) and Charlotte Churchhill (1809-1844)
She died in July 1887, Williams County, Ohio; he died in March 1893, in Washingtonville, Columbiana, Ohio
Children:
John Kelsay (5), son of Robert Kelsay and Hannah Minyoung, was born in 1849 in Madison County, Indiana.
He was married in 1876 shortly before the birth of their oldest child, to Luvenia Winslow, who was born 24 February 1876, daughter of Nixon and Cynthia Winslow.
John was received in membership 18 January 1888, at Fairmount Monthly Meeting. Apparently Luvenia was already a member. Their four oldest children were received 14 January 1891. He died 29 August 1919.
Children:
Sarah Ann Kelsay, daughter of Mary Ann Edgerton and William Kelsay, was born 26 December 1843, in Marion, Grant County, Indiana.
She was married 26 December 1860, in Sidney, Fremont County, Iowa, second wife, to George Bruner Murray, who was born 12 April 1843, Iowa City, Johnson County, Iowa, son of William Murray (born Ohio) and Mary J. Johnson (born Virginia)
"When still very young, George went with his parents to Keokuk, Iowa, where he lived until eight years of age. He came to this county in 1855, and located at Civil Bend. He enlisted February 8, 1862, in company F., fifteenth Iowa infantry, at Sidney. He was in the battle of Shiloh, where he was wounded, and in that of Corinth and numerous other engagements."
The family appears on the 1880 Census, of Benton Township, Fremont County, Iowa, including Sarah's mother, Mary Ann Edgerton. George and Sarah were divorced in 1885, and remarried in July 1899. On the 1900 Census, Sarah stated that she had 12 children, none living.
On the same Census, in their home was Ina, adopted daughter. The family says that she was a niece, but do not know of whom. An Ina Collins is buried next to Mary Ann Edgerton Kelsay in Norcature Cemetery, Norton County, Kansas. She was also on some records of land that Sarah left to her children.
Sarah died 5 June 1906, Rhine P.O., Sherman County, Kansas and George died 29 December 1920 in Goodland, Sherman County. His obituary stated that he had a surviving sister, but no name was given.
All children were born in Fremont County, Iowa. A full account of this family is being prepared (1990), by a great great grandson, Troy Leohos (Lee) Murray, 1132 Charles Street, Pampa, Texas 79065, (806) 655-0124.
Children:
Minerva Jane Kelsay, daughter of Mary Ann Edgerton and William Kelsay, was born 4 March 1846, in Marion, Grant County, Indiana. She was six when her family moved to Sidney, Fremont County, Iowa.
She was married there, 4 November 1865 to John G Parsons. John was born 27 August 1840, in Grand Isle County, Vermont; he located in Sidney, Iowa, in 1959, and in 1861, enlisted in County A, 4th Iowa Cavalry, and in 1865, returned to Sidney.
In 1877 the family moved to a farm south of Guide Rock, Nebraska, where Minerva died 11 March 1897, of "lingering consumption." She was a member of the United Brethren church. He died of cancer about a year later. They are buried in Maple Grove Cemetery, Guide Rock, Nebraska.
Kelsay (Lamb) Foust Kirk has a book of Poetry that John gave to Minerva before they were married.
Children:
John Kelsay (6), son of Mary Ann Edgerton and William Kelsay, was born 14 January 1850, in Grant County, Indiana.
He was married 18 October 1877, in Webster County, Nebraska, to Melissa C Kendall, (sometimes spelled Kindall) who was born about 1862, in Illinois, daughter of Lafayette Kendall and Wealthy Haskins, who were both born in Iowa. They were married in the presence of Henry H & Jennie Haskins (Hoskins), her aunt and uncle.
He is found on the 1880 Census of Webster County, Guide Rock Precinct, Nebraska, with his wife, Melissa (no children) and a 66 yr woman, Cymantha Haskins, who stated her birthplace as New York, her parents birthplace as New York. It seems likely that Cymantha was Melissa's grandmother.
On the 1870 Census of Fremont County, Iowa, living close to Mary Ann (Edgerton) Kelsay, is listed a J. J. Haskins, age 32, born Indiana, and his wife Nancy J, age 34, (born Indiana) and 5 Children: Hiram-age 13, Eliza-age 11, David-age 10, Laura-age 7, and Sarah (?) age 5. Could this be a related to Wealthy?
John is said to have lived and raised his family in Iowa. This is probably the John Kelsay, who died October 1934, age 84, buried Thurman Cemetery, Fremont County, Iowa.
Children:
Samuel Kelsay (1), son of Mary Ann Edgerton and William Kelsay, was born about 1852, in Grant County, Indiana.
A farmer, he was married 28 December 1870, in Atcheson County, Missouri, to Mary (Mollie) E. Hardy, who was born about 1854, in Atlantic, Cass County, Iowa. Her parents were born in New York.
Sam's family appears on the 1880 Census (Guide Rock Prec.), Webster County, Nebraska. Sam drank, was divorced, and his family scattered. He was listed on the 1900 Census, in the household of his son, John Samuel, at Norton, Kansas. He died September 1932, Northbranch, Kansas.
Children:
Josephine Kelsay, daughter of Francis A. Coffey and adopted by William H. Kelsay, was born 13 June 1869, in Illinois. The fact of her illegitimacy was such a well-kept secret that Josie might not have ever been aware that William was not her natural father.
Josie was married/1 to Chris Young, stagecoach driver, born in 1861, and died in 1905.
She was married/2 in April 1906 to Harry Largely. Josie was a Hotel-keeper, and ran the Grand Hotel in Grand Lake, Colorado, for many years.
Harry died; Josie became senile, and was placed in the Colorado State Hospital 11 January 1944, dying there of pneumonia, 15 May 1952, after a six day illness.
Children:
Edward A. Kelsay, son of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born 6 June 1873, in Christian County, Illinois.
He married Effie M. ____, who was born 9 November 1887, and died 4 March 1929.
Edward died 8 October 1947, near Rogersville, Missouri. They are buried in the Dodson Cemetery next to their infant daughter and his parents.
Children:
James H. Kelsay, son of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born 15 July 1875, in Christian County, Illinois.
A farmer and carpenter like his father, he was married 24 October 1897, in Ongo, Christian County, Illinois, to May Kinney, who was born 18 December 1876, Bates County, Missouri, daughter of David Kinney.
James died 1 May 1939; May died 13 March 1955, both in Rogersville, Missouri, and both buried in the Hazelwood Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri.
Children:
Maggie Kelsay, daughter of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born in 1880, in Jefferson County, Colorado.
She was married to David Davis, probably in Missouri.
Children:
Edith Kelsay, daughter of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born about 1872, probably in Rogersville, Missouri.
She was married 10 September 1911, to James Thomas (Tom) McKinney who was born 7 August 1890.
Joshua Thomas McKinney, born 17 September 1847, Tennessee; died 17 September 1824, Mumford Missouri.
He was married 17 September 1874, to Matilda Frances Hodges, born 7 November 1852, Missouri; died 8 June 1884, Grand County, Missouri, daughter of Andrew Hodges, son of John Hodges.
Children
Children:
Ralph Kelsay, son of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born 21 October 1884, in Rogersville, Missouri. Ralph attended Auto Mechanics School in Kansas City.
He was married in 1913 in Missouri (probably Rogersville), to Clara N McKinney, who was born 27 February 1886, in Missouri, daughter of Joshua Thomas McKinney and Matilda Frances Hodges.(See CE-1,826. Edith Kelsay above)
Ralph and Clara moved from Springfield, Green County, Missouri, to Fresno County, California in 1918, where he was an oil worker.
Clara died 19 August 1953; Ralph died 6 November 1962, both in Coalinga, Fresno County, and both are buried at Belmont Memorial Park Cemetery.
Children:
Claude Kelsay, son of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born 27 November 1890, in Galloway, Green County, Missouri.
He was married to Elva Gray, who was born 30 January 1894, daughter of Henry D. Gray and Mandy Paynor (who are buried in the Dobson Cemetery).
Claude and Elva moved to Kern County, California, in 1921, then moved back to Green County, Missouri in 1927.
Claude died 26 February 1948; Elva died 22 May 1972, both buried in the Maple Park Cemetery, Springfield, Missouri.
Children:
Herbert Kelsay, son of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born about 1892, in Rogersville, Missouri.
He was married to Carrie Felton, and gave his name to the child she was going to have by a man named Mr. Bishop. They had no other children.
Children:
Lucy Kelsay, daughter of William H. Kelsay and Francis A. Coffey, was born about 1894 in Rogersville, Missouri.
She married William Hollingsworth.
Children:
Marion Eugene Beaman, son of Henry M Beaman and Mary Ann Kelsay, was born 26 July 1884, in Decatur, Macon County, Illinois.
He was married in 1908, to Ruby Jane Berry, who was born 15 February 1881, in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Her Grandparents:
William Alexander Berry, born 25 April 1826, South Carolina, died 15 March 1886, Arkansas Mary Jane Norton, born 24 October 1833, Tennessee, died 6 April 1919, in Taylorville, Christian County, Illinois
Her parents:
Her father was James Alexander Berry, born 14 July 1854, in North Carolina, died 29 October 1939, married in 1880, to Mary M Durbin, born October 1857, Kentucky
Marion died 15 February 1970, in Greenwood Township, Christian County, Illinois, buried Graceland Cemetery, Decatur;
Children:
George Murray, son of Sarah Anne Kelsay and George Bruner Murray, was born 3 February 1871, at McPaul, Fremont County, Iowa.
He was married 1 November 1892, in Norton, Norton County, Kansas, to Netta May Wiltfong, born in Poweshiek, Iowa, and died in Spokane, Washington.
George died 24 May 1932, in Larned, Pawnee County, Kansas.
Children:
Leamons (Lee) Green Parsons, son of Minerva Jane Kelsay and John Parsons, was born in 1871, in Sidney, Fremont County, Iowa.
He was married 4 July 1896, in Red Cloud, Webster County, Nebraska, to Mary Elizabeth Harris, who was born 24 August 1876/7 in England, and died 6 November 1909, daughter of John Quincy Harris and Ann Holland. The wedding was witnessed by Fred Harris and Ella E. Roberts.
Lee was living in Red Cloud, Nebraska in 1932. He died in 1935. They are both buried in Marten Cemetery, Webster County, Nebraska.
Children:
Harry Kelsay, son of John Kelsay and Melissa Kendall, was born in 1883, either in Iowa or Webster County, Nebraska.
He was married 10 September 1901, to Margaret Alice Ames, who was born in August 1882 in Percival, Fremont County, Iowa, the daughter of Henry Ames and Mary Jane Howell.
She divorced Harry on 2 September 1915, charging him with cruel and inhuman treatment and habitual drunkenness.
Mary Jane Howell was born in 1869 in Fillmore, Andrew County, Missouri, and died in 1934 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, the daughter of James Preston Howell (b 23 October 1828, Howard County, Missouri) & Margaret Sanders Davis (born 24 January 1822 Virginia)
Children:
Amy Ann Kelsay, daughter of Samuel Kelsay and Mary E. Hardy, was born about 1872, in Guide Rock, Nebraska.
She was married to Charles Wiggens. She died in St. Francis, Cheyenne County, Kansas, in May 1952. The birth order of the children is uncertain.
Children:
John Samuel (Tim) Kelsay, son of Samuel Kelsay and Mollie Hardy, was born 18 January 1878, in Guide Rock, Nebraska.
He was married 25 October 1899, in Norton, Kansas, to Hattie Marie Applegate, who was born 31 October 1883, in Frankfort, Kansas.
Tim and Hattie lived in Norton and in Seldon, in northwest Kansas. In their later years they lived in Anaheim, California.
Tim died 1 February 1963, in Anaheim, California; Hattie died 9 September 1975, in Escondido, California. They are both buried in the Anaheim Cemetery.
From Roslyn Kelsay Dozier-
"I don't know a lot about John Sam Kelsay's family (Grandpa went by "Tim") or Grandma Hattie's family. I just know that relatives came from Guide Rock, Nebraska, occasionally to visit. Grandpa never talked a lot and I don't remember him discussing his family. I was away for ten years after I graduated from high school so I didn't get to visit with him much as an adult myself. He died six months after I got married.
"He was a kindly man, small build, and he loved to sit in his rocking chair on the porch and roll his own cigarettes and smoke all day. Grandma used to get real mad at him for sitting around and smoking all day in his twilight years.
"He sure loved me, and all children. I spent hours with him as a child, playing under the avocado trees at his house on Walnut St. in Anaheim, California. I would make mud pies and pretend to serve Grandpa meals as he sat in the shade of those big old trees.
"We laughed and he told me stories. I was about 4-6 years old when we did that. I was the only granddaughter, so, naturally, I was spoiled by my Grandpa and Grandma!! They were very special to me. Grandma was the best cook around and could whip up a huge meal in 30 minutes. She always had cooked rhubarb and apple pies. She made huge oatmeal cookies! I spend many hours with them as my Mother was a teacher and was at school every day. Grandpa and Grandma were my baby-sitters. I loved being with them!"
Children:
Josephine C. Kelsay, daughter of Samuel Kelsay and Mollie E. Hardy, was born in 2 May 1882, in Guide Rock Nebraska.
A fine woman, she was married 26 April 1899, in Nelson, Nebraska, to William E. Lowery, who was born 27 January 1879.
William may be son of Oliver and Dorotha Lowery. He came to Nebraska with his parents in the spring of 1886 and settled in Nuckolls County. He lived there on the farm most of his life. With a brother, he operated a threshing machine for many years.
He served on his local school board, and had the respect of the large number of neighbors and friends. He was long affiliated with the Odd Fellow, and the A. O. U. W. Lodges. They moved into Guide Rock, Nebraska, in 1935.
William died in 1946, and is buried in the Columbia Cemetery, which is southeast of Guide Rock, on a hill in a pasture, overlooking the river. He was survived by one sister, Hattie Warrell, of Aurora, Nebraska.
Josie was married/2 on 1 February 1951, in Guide Rock, to Sherm Shipman, who died in 1959. She died on 16 June 1967, in a nursing home in Inavale, Nebraska. She was buried beside William. Her tombstone, gives the dates (1883-1964), which are in error.
Children:
Josephine Lowery-mother-1883-1964 William E. Lowery-father 1879-1946
Edith-dau-born 16 August 1907, died 27 December 1907
Lowery-born 21 September 1829-died 5 November 1907
Dorotha, wife of Oliver Lowery, born 18 April 1840-died 8 August 1925
Mary Van Doran, born 14 December 1806-died 13 December 1898
Wilbur L, son of C H & E. Lowery, 10 June 1903-20 October 1913
Warren R, son of C. H. and E. Lowery, 2 January 1896-11 March 1896
Arthur, born 26 November 1892, died 12 February 1893
Owen, born 26 December 1891-died 24 January 1892
Harriett "Our Daughter," born 1 June 1900-died 12 April 1935
William Calvin Kelsay, son of James H. Kelsay and May Kinney, was born 3 August 1901, in Douglas County, Missouri.
He was married 5 August 1922, Springfield, Missouri, to Hallie Ardella Dickson, who was born 22 August 1899, Galloway, Green County, Missouri, daughter of George and Lillie Dickson.
William and Hallie lived in California for 3 years during World War II, then returned to Springfield and bought a service station, which he and his wife operated until his retirement. He did refrigeration work on a part-time basis after his retirement till his death. He died 6 May 1971, in Springfield, of a heart attack, and was buried in the Hazelwood Cemetery.
Children:
Frederick Victor Kelsay, son of James H. Kelsay and May Kinney, was born 29 August 1910, Rogersville, Missouri.
He was married/1 (probably in Springfield, Missouri) to Marjorie Pauline Esperman, who was born 7 February 1916, Missouri.
They moved to California by 1941, settling in Stockton and later Bakersfield, and Kern County California. Marjorie died 30 April 1962, in Bakersfield.
Fred was married/2 on 16 December 1966, in Kern County to Erma Johnson, who was born in 1919.
Children:
Ella M. Kelsay, daughter of James H. Kelsay and May Kinney, was born 5 April 1913, Rogersville, Missouri.
She was married to Ralph Bryant. By 1938, they were residing in Taft, Kern County, California, where they were still living in 1975.
Children:
Leonard Kelsay, son of Carrie Felton, and adopted at birth by Herbert Kelsay, was born in April 1907.
He was married/1 about 1925 in Missouri to Dorothy Leigh, daughter of William Davis Leigh and Margaret Elizabeth Cline. She had a 2 yr old son, Charles M Leigh, who when grown went to California, and was never heard from again.
Leonard and Dorothy had five children, 3 stillborn, 2 that lived. They were divorced; Dorothy lives in Green County, Missouri.
In 1976, Leonard was married/2 to ___ Gunn, and divorced. He was married/3 to a lady bartender and moved to Joplin, Missouri.
Children:
Harold Victor Kelsay, son of Harry Kelsay and Alice Ames, was born 2 February 1902, in McCook, Nebraska. His Social Security application states that he was born in Council Bluff, Iowa, but the Census records say he was born in Nebraska.
He was married to Bernice I Davison, who was born 1 November 1902 in Percival, Fremont County, Iowa, the daughter of John Franklin Davison (born 1843 Buchanan County, Missouri) & Viola Kearney.
They were divorced. Berniece died 5 October 1979, in Renton, King County, Washington
Harold Victor Kelsey's death certificate states that he was born 2/23/02 in McCook, Nebraska, on 2/23/02. He died of "acute circulatory failure" due to "coronary insufficiency and thrombosis" due to "arteriosclerosis" i.e., a heart attack on 9 October 1966. He was DOA at Central Receiving Hospital in Los Angeles. He stated that he worked as a truck driver for a motion picture studio (Twentieth Century Fox) and lived in Pacoima, Louisianna County. He was cremated and his ashes lie in Evergreen Cemetery. He had lived in Louisianna County for 36 years. It states that he was divorced. Informant was "Mrs. Woods".
Children:
David Kelsay, Sr., son of Rev. Robert Kelsay and Miriam Smith, was born in 1759, in Hopewell Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey. David was an American Patriot, and served in the New Jersey Militia, from Stow Creek Township, Cumberland County, during the Revolutionary War. (See "New Jersey in 1793" page 69, by James S. Norton)
He was married/1 (between 1777 and 1782, probably at the Dividing Creek Baptist Church) to Sarah (Sally) Heaton, the youngest child of Abbey Tuttle and Rev. Samuel Heaton, who was the pastor of the Dividing Creek Baptist Church in Downe Township (formerly Fairfield Twsp), Cumberland County The Heatons transferred to Cohansey Baptist Church in November 1782. Sarah had apparently had designs on a boy by the surname of Shaw, when she was a teenager, because in her father's will, which was dated 16 September 1777 (10 days before he died) he gave Sarah "the bed and furniture she now uses, on the condition that she not marry into the family of Hezikiah Shaw, or other ways cohabit with any males of his family." Rev. Heaton was known as a strong willed man, and apparently prevailed, because the record shows that David and Sally Kelsay became members of Cohansey Baptist Church in November 1782. It appears that Sally died young, and it is not known whether she had any children.
David was married for the second time, probably in Cumberland County, between 1782 and 1786, to Mary Royal, who was born in 1761, probably in either Cumberland, or Salem County. She may be daughter of either David or John Royal of the Cumberland area. She is certainly the mother of William, and most likely, mother of all the children.
John Royal stayed in Cayuga County New Jersey. The area where he lived became Tompkins County prior to the 1820 Census, which shows John Royal living in Lansing, in Tompkins County. He is still there on the 1830 Census. John Royal was born in 1755, and died 13 September 1834, buried in the Cemetery at East Lansing. Eunice Royal was born 14 January 1764, and died 14 January 1833, buried in the Cemetery at North Lansing. Buried beside Eunice is her daughter, Nancy Royal, who was born 24 January 1797 and died 13 November 1851, and her daughter Mary (Polly) Royal, born 6 November 1800 and died 1 December 1862. John Royal, Jr. was still living in Lansing on the 1840 Census. It is not proven that the Royal family were David's in-laws, but we do know that they lived in Cumberland and Salem Counties, New Jersey, when the Kelsays did, and they lived in the same township in New York. John Royal had a daughter named Mary. David married a Mary. Thomas P Kelsay, son of David, named his oldest son, William Royal Kelsay, He also named a daughter Nancy, and another daughter Mary.
In 1789, David Kelsay inherited from his father -Item 4. "that bed and all the furniture thereunto belonging, whereon I commonly sleep, and also my mare and riding chair and one pair of silver shoe buckles and also my watch, and six silver tea spoons." The 1800 Census, Milton Township, Cayuga County, New York, shows that David Kelsay, John Kelsay, Samuel Kelsay, and John Royal were residents. In 1808, Milton Township was changed to Genoa Township.
David made the following purchases of land:
Cayuga County, New York, Book 1 pg 265, 30 April 1802, 50 acres, Lot 48, from John Beardslee page 284 in Lot 57, Elijah Wilder 366 purchase Everette Beardslee
Unoccupied land in parts of Western New York, including Cayuga County, were declared Military Tracts and were divided into large Lots of up to several hundred acres, given to veterans to pay for their services in the Revolutionary War, since no cash was available. They lived in the area along the present highway leading south from Auburn to Ithaca
The Census for 1810 shows households of David Kelsay, his son David, Jr., his son Thomas P Kelsay, and John Kelsay 2nd, and John Royal. The two John Kelsays are not identified. John Kelsay 2 could be son of John 1 on the earlier census. David, Sr. family at that time listed a son born between 1794-1800, a daughter born between 1794-1800 and two daughters born after 1880.
In April 1811, Deed Book L, Page 29, records the sale of 100 acres of land in Lots 48 and 57 by David to Benjamin Jacobs. On 21 May 1811, page 141 records the sale by David and wife, Mary, of their acreage in Genoa Township. The Kelsay family left New York in the summer of 1811, just before the War of 1812 with England.
David and his family most likely took a flat-boat down the Ohio River and landed at Cincinnati, Ohio, and leased land in Clinton or Warren County. On 3 May 1814, Warren County, Ohio Deed Records show that David Kelsay bought 200 acres of land from Benjamin Blackford for $580. located in the south part of Warren County, near the Clinton County line. This was known as the Virginia Military District. David's land was (VMD) Survey Number 2225, close to the Little Miami River, a location ideal for shipments of farm commodities. The original claim was in 1792, but people had been reluctant to settle there until after the famous Greenville Treaty of 1795. Mad Anthony Wayne had several skirmishes with the Indians and convinced them it was better to have peace.
As son of a Baptist minister, David Kelsay Sr. was always a devout Baptist, and he and Mary joined the Union Baptist Church on Todd's Fork, which had just divided from Todd's Fork Baptist Church, over the subject of slavery. The Union Church was decidedly anti-slavery. None of the Kelsays had ever owned slaves.
On 12 September 1814, Warren County records show that David Kelsay gave his son, Daniel Kelsay, Power/Attorney for the purpose of returning to Cayuga County to collect the money due him from Benjamin Jacobs for the New York land. Apparently, Daniel was successful, for there were no legal actions filed against Benjamin Jacobs in Cayuga County.
On 6 August 1817, when David, Sr. was 58, he sold 133 acres to his son, David Jr., for $600, and 66 acres to his son, William, for $300. This left him with one acre, which probably contained his house where he lived until his death. The 1820 Census shows David Kelsay, Sr. living in Salem Township, Warren County, Ohio. Part of Salem Township was taken into Washington Township when it was organized in 1818.
In the 1830 Census, which was taken shortly before David's death, he and his wife, Mary, and a female between the age of 20-30, were residents of Washington Township, Warren County.
David died 6 May 1830, Mary died 27 October 1833, both in Warren County, both were buried in the Union Church Cemetery, near Blanchester, in Warren County. In 1976 there was still a white frame church that was erected in 1883, attached to the old Union Church Baptist cemetery, where David and several members of his family are buried. It is called "Union Church of God."
David had at least four sons, all born in Cumberland County, New Jersey. According to the 1810 Census for Cayuga County, New York, there were also 3 daughters. Order of birth is not certain.
Children:
Thomas P. Kelsay, son of David Kelsay, Sr. and probably his second wife, Mary, was born about 1786, in Cumberland County, New Jersey. Thomas' middle name was most likely "Potter." Brig. General David Potter was the commander of the Cumberland Militia and David Kelsay, Sr. had served under him. William Kelsay, Esq. had a grandson named David Potter Kelsay.
Thomas P was married in 1808, probably in Cayuga County, New York, to Elizabeth Brown, who was born 13 May 1785, in Connecticut. She may have been daughter of Walter and Avis Brown of Stonington, Connecticut, but this has not been proved. They are found on the 1810 Census living in Genoa Township, of Cayuga, New York.
The Kelsay clan moved to Ohio in 1811. Thomas P owned land at least as early as 1822 when he appeared on the Tax Rolls. He purchased 100 acres of land on 25 May 1825, in Clinton County. The Survey #1506 shows that his property lies exactly on the county line, with half in Warren County and half in Clinton County. So the Ohio born children could have been born in either county.
Thomas died 10 April 1826, at age 40. His estate later paid a bill of $10 to a Dr. Cottle, so we assume he died of illness or injury, and had been under the doctor's care for some time. The estate was closed in October of 1828, and was valued at $230.04.
Two months later, 10 June 1826, Elizabeth, age 41, married William Smalley, age about 66, in a service performed by the groom's son, Freeman. The Smalleys were from southern New Jersey and they knew the Kelsays there, as shown in the records of the old Cohansey Baptist Church where Thomas's grandfather was pastor.
Indians killed William Smalley's father, capturing William at the same time. They bored and lacerated his ears so that they hung in strips for the rest of his life. The Indians held him prisoner for 5 years, during which time he learned their language. He fought in numerous skirmishes against the Indians and was captured a second time. After his escape, he settled on land "which lies in Warren and Clinton Counties. Without doubt he lived near the Kelsay clan.
In April 1827, the 5 younger children were placed under the guardianship of William Smalley. At the August 1829 term of the Court of Common Pleas, Smalley asked for reimbursement of the sum of $1.50 per month for care of the children from 10 April 1826 to 10 April 1829. It would appear that he began to care for them the very day their father died, although for some reason Harriett did not join them until 10 June 1825. This arrangement and marriage of Elizabeth to William only 60 days after Thomas' death would indicate that some planning had been done in anticipation of the need of care for the family.
In a biography of William Smalley, it says that he, Elizabeth, and his five wards moved to Vermillion County, Illinois, in 1832. How long were Elizabeth and her children in Illinois? If in fact they did go there, we do not know, but we know that they were back in Ohio in 1835, when Thornton Nichols was appointed as guardian of the children, replacing Smalley. In 1837 Hugh Wilson was substituted as guardian for the children, again, in a Clinton County proceeding. In 1835, Wilson married Nancy Kelsay. William Smalley died in 1840. His will was probated in Vermillion County, and no mention was made whatever of his wife or his former wards.
Between 1837 and 1840, most of the family seems to have moved to Indiana. On 31 December 1840, Elizabeth bought a lot in the town of Jefferson, Washington Township, Clinton County, Indiana. and we assume she lived there with her remaining unmarried children until she sold the property in December 1844.
Elizabeth spent the rest of her life with one of her children or another. In 1850, she was living with the George B Rash family. She was living in Tippecanoe County with Daniel and Harriett Rash at the time of her death, in 1858. She is buried at Abbott cemetery near Fickle Station, Washington Twsp, near the west line of Clinton County, Indiana. Her stone: "Elizabeth Kelsay, Wife of Thomas P. Kelsay."
The Civil War started 3 years later. Her grandchildren who remained in Indiana served in the Union forces. Her grandchildren who had moved to Texas fought for the Confederacy.
Children:
David Kelsay, Jr., son of David and Mary Kelsay, was born about 1790 in Hopewell Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey. He was married in Clinton County, Ohio, December 1814, to Lydia Keenan, who was born 4 February 1794, daughter of Patrick Keenan and Elizabeth Thatcher. The Clinton County old marriage license Vol.1 shows a license being issued on 19 December and returned on 27 December. See CH-3. William Kelsay, below. Lydia was a sister to Betsy.
Lydia died between 1827 and 1830, in Salem Township, Warren County, Ohio, probably of disease or childbirth. David died in the spring of 1836, in Warren County, aged 46. A cholera epidemic had raged through Warren County in 1833, killing 130 people between July to September, and its possible that some disease such as this might have killed him. The place of their burial is not known, but it could have been a family burial plot on the farm.
David's brother, William Kelsay, and Barlow Stevens were the Administrators of his estate. An inventory was made of the goods and chattels of David's estate in 25 March 1836, and appraised at $698.67. This was livestock, grain, farm implements, etc, and a silver watch. William bought the land, 8th April. David and Lydia had at least six children, and likely more. The missing names were probably girls.
Children:
William Kelsay, son of David Kelsay, Sr. and Mary Royal, was born in 1792, in Cumberland County, New Jersey.
He was married between the lst of December and the 12th, of 1816, in Clinton County, Ohio, to Elizabeth (Betsy) Keenan, who was born 18 October 1795, in Campbell County, Kentucky, daughter of Patrick Keenan and Elizabeth Thatcher. Betsy was the sister of Lydia, above, wife of David Jr.
On 6 August 1817, William first bought land from his father, 66 2/3 acres for $300. On 23 May 1818, he bought 60 acres for $600.00 from his brother David. On 13 February 1837, he sold 60 acres for $1050. to John Bliss, and on 8 April 1837, he bought David's remaining land from his heirs. On 15 November 1858, he bought 20 acres for $1000 from his son, Daniel, who then moved to Shelby County, Indiana. On 4 December 1865, he sold 34 acres to Theodore Leowden for $1364. There may have been other transactions.
When he died, he had 88 acres, 1 rood, and 3 perches of land. In his will his widow was assigned a dower of $400 per year, $100 of chattel property, the household furniture, cooking utensils, clothing, 1 cow, 2 hogs, etc. The rest of the estate was divided among Newton J. Kelsay, Harlan Kelsay, Harvey Kelsay, Hannah A. Kelsay, Lucetta M. Kelsay and Elizabeth Osborn. Betsy willed all she had to her niece, Elizabeth Mitchell. William's will is on file in Warren County, and hers is on file in Clinton County. He died 29 February 1868, she died 27 August 1874, both in Salem Township, Warren County, Ohio, both buried in the Union Church Cemetery.
Children:
William Royal Kelsay, son of Thomas P Kelsay and Elisabeth Brown, was born 20 June 1810, in Cayuga County, New York, and died 10 July 1867 in Denton County, Texas.
He was married 13 April 1837, to Eliza Smith, who was born 3 March 1819, in Hamilton County, Ohio, and died 2 April 1900, Fort Worth, Texas, the daughter of Jacob and Atlantic Smith.
Children:
Joseph Kelsay, son of David Kelsay, Jr. and Lydia Keenan, was born in 1817, in Warren County, Ohio.
He was married 17 October 1837, in Warren County, to Mary A Coddington, who was born in 1819, in Ohio.
The 1850, 1860, 1870 Census records show they were residents of Marion Township, Clinton County, Ohio, near the Warren County line. On the 1850 census, Joseph's brother, Keenan, and Mary's brother William, were living with them. Joseph was a farmer and also ran a grocery store in Blanchester, Ohio. On the 1870 Census, Arthur Kelsay, born 1857, Ohio, was living in their household, but was not Joseph's son. He was most likely a nephew or cousin.
Joseph died before the 1890 Census. Probably Mary did, too.
Children:
William Kelsay, son of David Kelsay, Jr. and Lydia Keenan, was born in 1826, in Warren County, Ohio.
He was married about 1847/8 in Ohio, to Rebecca ___, who was born 1832, in Ohio. They were residents of Washington Township, in Warren County
On 22 February 1864, William enrolled in Company "E" 17th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered out on 16 July 1865, in Louisville, Kentucky. At the time of his enrollment, he was 38 years old, 5'11" tall, with fair complexion, gray eyes, mixed dark and gray hair. He was injured in a train accident near North Vernon Station, Indiana, on 3 March 1864. He drew a pension for this after the war. He was promoted to Corporal on 1 November 1864.
In the fall of 1870, the family moved to Jasper County, Missouri, where they purchased 120 acres of land on 2 November 1870. On 4 March 1873, a Trust Deed was issued for this land, which was sold by the trustees on 24 October 1874. In 1876, William moved his family to Vernon County, Missouri. In 1888, William moved into the town of Walker in Vernon County. He most likely died there, and is probably buried in the old Walker Cemetery, which is so unkempt that his grave could not be located. They had at least four children.
Children:
Thomas (Samuel) Kelsay, son of David Kelsay, Jr. and Lydia Keenana, was born in 1828, in Warren County, Ohio. Some of his descendants in California knew him as Samuel, and he may have used that name. However, his given name at birth was Thomas, and all legal documents used that name.
Thomas was married April 1849, in Salem Township, Warren County, Ohio (record at Lebanon, Ohio) to Sarah A. Hitesman, who was born in 1830, in New Jersey, daughter of William Hitesman and Anna Snyder.
Children:
Thomas enlisted as a substitute for Christopher G. Hennon 1 October 1864, Company I, 82 Regular, Ohio Volunteer Infantry. When he enlisted he was 37 years old, a blacksmith by trade, 6'2" tall, blue eyes, brown hair, fair complexion. He was mustered out 10 June, near Washington DC. He drew a pension after the war for an injury incurred on 12 March 1865 near Fayetteville, North Carolina. On his declaration for pension he stated:
    "While marching rapidly while in line of duty across a corderoy road after night, my left foot got fast between the cross-way, which caused me to fall and in falling I came near breaking my leg. Also sprained the ankle joint and the instep of my foot causing the ankel joint and foot to enlarge, and ever since it occured, whenever I walk or stand on my feet much, my foot and leg will cause me severe pain and cause me to be lame, which prevents me from performing manual labor. I never was treated for the injury except application of cold water." This last record of his signature was dated 4 June 1898, and was on a piece of correspondence addressed to the Bureau of Pensions. As this was shortly before his death, his signature was very shaky. He stated at that time that he had 8 children and the youngest was over 30 years of age.
Sarah died 29 October 1890, in Warren County, Ohio. She was buried in the West Woodville Cemetery, beside her son Francis. In 1892, William moved to Adama, Umatilla County, Oregon, and died 15 September 1898, in Pendleton, Oregon.
Children:
Daniel Kelsay, son of William Kelsay and Elizabeth Keenan, was born 24 July 1820, in Warren County, Ohio.
He was married 8 September 1839, in Warren County, to Margaret Hupp, who was born 3 June 1819, in Ohio. She was the daughter of Michael Hupp, born 4 November 1786, East Bethlehem Township, Ohio, and Hannah Van Sickle.
In 1858, they bought land in, and moved to Washington Township, Shelby County, Indiana. Daniel met a tragic death, 14 September 1862. He had been to the gristmill to have some flour ground and was returning to his farm on horse-back. Heavy rains had swollen a normally complacent little stream into a raging torrent. In attempting to cross, Daniel was swept away from his horse and drowned. He was buried in Patterson Cemetery in Shelby County, Indiana. Margaret died 28 August 1879 in Howard County, Indiana, and was buried in Albright Cemetery.
Daniel and Margaret had ten children, who were all born in Warren County, Ohio. Only five lived to adulthood; only two lived past their 30's.
Children:
Lucinda Kelsay, daughter of William Kelsay and Elizabeth Keenan, was born 16 November 1824.
She was married 11 November 1850, in Warren County, Ohio, to Phineas J. Osborn, born in 1829, in Ohio, a laborer by trade, and resident of Washington Township, Warren County, Ohio.
Lucinda died 4 July 1856, in Warren County, and was buried in Union Church Cemetery, near her parents, grandparents, and infant.
The children were born in Warren County, Ohio
Children:
Robert Bruce Kelsay, son of William Royal Kelsay and Eliza Smith, was born 28 May 1846, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and died 19 January 1926, in Jack County, Texas.
He was married 27 February 1874, in Elizabethtown, Texas, to Laura Cordelia Manning, who was born 1 February 1852, in Springfield, Missouri, died 20 July 1926, in Jack County, Texas, the daughter of Edward Cornelius Manning (born 1808, in Maryland) and Mary Moore Orbison (born 1818, Virginia)
Children:
Sources:
1. Text: "Kelsay Family History"
Charles B. Kelsay, son of William and Rebecca Kelsay, was born in 1856, in Warren County, Ohio.
He was married/1 about 1778, probably in Vernon County, Missouri, to Celestia A. ____, born about 1857, in Kansas. Celestia died young.
Charles was married/2 on 17 September 1884, in Vernon County, to Clara J. Johns. Charles lived in Nevada, Missouri, at that time, and Clara was from Walker, Missouri.
Children:
John Milton Kelsa, son of Thomas (Samuel) Kelsay and Sarah A. Hitesman, was born 1 January 1853, in Blanchester, Clinton County, Ohio.
He was married 22 August 1880, in Union, Union County, Oregon, to Susan Denton, who was born 15 January 1862, at Council Grove, Kansas, daughter of Daniel Denton and Mary Davis. His father spent his last years in their home.
John and Susan moved from Oregon to Los Angeles County, California. John was a blacksmith for fifty years, a foreman of Los Angeles County Shops.
John died 12 March 1937 at Azusa, Los Angeles County; Susan died 27 August 1937 at Merced, Merced County, California. They are buried in the Oakdale Cemetery, Oakdale, Stanislaus County, California.
Children:
Newton Jasper Kelsay, son of Daniel Kelsay and Margaret Hupp, was born 15 July 1840, Warren County, Ohio.
He was married/1 28 August 1860, in Shelby County, Indiana, to Sarah Emaline Hawkins, who was probably the daughter of Joshua S. Hawkins and Rebecca.
After Sarah's death, Newton was married again on 9 September 1869, in Shelby County, to Francis Guile, who was probably the daughter of Joshua Guile, of Shelby County. Newton died 11 September 1871, in Washington Township, Shelby County, Indiana, and was buried beside his father and son in Patterson Cemetery. The children were all born in Shelby County
Children:
Harlen Kelsay, son of Daniel Kelsay and Margaret Hupp, was born, a twin, 29 January 1845, in Warren County, Ohio, moving with his family to Shelby County, Indiana. At the age of 17, his father drowned, and left him and his brother, Harvey, with the responsibility of caring for his mother, who was in ill health, and two younger sisters. He not only had to do the farm work, but also had to help with the housework.
He was married 5 September 1867, in Shelby County, Indiana, to Phebe Spurlen, who was born 5 September 1848, the daughter of Jesse Spurling and Elizabeth Goodpasture.
In 1871, when his brother Newton died, Harlen took his nephew, Joshua Harlen Kelsay, into his home to raise. In 1873, Harlen moved his family to Tipton County, Indiana. Phebe committed suicide there on 22 July 1882, and was buried n the Albright Cemetery.
Harlen was married/2 on 9 December 1883, to Matilda Jane (Jennie) Banks Jones, who was born 17 December 1853, in Center Township, Howard County, Indiana. She was daughter of Thomas W. and Elizabeth Jane Banks, and the widow of John E. Jones, by whom she had 3 children, one of whom died in infancy.
Jennie was a devout Quaker that deeply and sincerely believed in her religion. It was probably her influence that caused Harlen Kelsay to embrace the Quaker religion, when his ancestors were Baptist. She was sincere and intelligent, but much quieter and more reserved than Harlen. Unrestrained laughter and joviality were rare with her.
Harlen and Jennie joined the Quaker, Society of Friends, at Kokomo, Indiana, Monthly Meeting 7 January 1885. In 1896, they became charter members of the Hemlock, Indiana, Monthly Meeting. On 7 February 1899, tortured and confused by his mother's death, son George W. Kelsay hung himself in the barn.
Harlen and Jessie moved to Miami County, Indiana, and became members of the South Union Meeting on 7 April 1900. This church was eventually replaced by a new, brick church, in the town of Amboy, Pipe Creek Amboy Monthly Meeting.
Harlen was a hard working farmer. He was deeply religious all of his life, friendly and sincere in his dealings with other people. He enjoyed a good laugh and was an easy person to become acquainted with. He retained his good will and firm convictions in spite of the tragedies in his life.
Harlen had a stroke 8 January 1918, leaving him in failing health. He bore his affliction with great patience. He suffered a final stoke on 18th of April, and died 27 April 1920 at the home of his son H. Paul Kelsay, in Laport, Indiana. His body was brought to the home of his son Thomas in Amboy the next day. He is buried in the Albright Cemetery in Howard County, Indiana, 10 miles SW of Amboy, east of Kokomo.
Jennie had been in failing health for some time, but had a sudden stroke, and died 23 February 1931, at the home of her son Paul in Hartford City, Indiana. Her funeral was held in the home of her son Thomas in Amboy. She was buried beside Harlen.
Children:
Harvey Kelsay, son of Daniel Kelsay and Margaret Hupp, was born 23 February 1846, in Warren County, Ohio.
He was married 14 August 1864, in Shelby County, Indiana to Elizabeth Stevens.
She was was born 6 March 1846 in Shelby County, the daughter of Martin Stephens (born 12 November 1820, in Links, Kingdom of Baden), Germany, and Mary Clayton.
Harvey died of tuberculous, 14 August 1884, in Howard County, Indiana. It is assumed that he was buried in the Albright Cemetery, near Kokomo, Indiana, but his tombstone was not found.
Elizabeth was married/2 on 29 December 1886, in Shelby County, Indiana, to James F. Prather, by whom she had a son, Samuel W. Prather, born 7 May 1888. Elizabeth was married/3 on 21 February 1905 to Frank Saunder. She died 9 November 1914, in Shelbyville, Shelby County, Indiana, buried in the Miller Cemetery.
The children were born in Shelby County, Indiana
Children:
Lottie Lee Kelsay, daughter of Robert Bruce Kelsay and Laura Cordelia Manning, was born 10 August 1880, in Roanoke, Denton County, Texas, and died 4 November 1943, buried in Duncan, Oklahoma, Cemetery, Lot 45, block 31, Section 4.
She was married 6 August 1899, to Benjamin Angie Price, who was born 18 September 1875 in Perrin, Jack County, 30 May 1961, the son of William Barton Price and Sarah Izilla Reynolds. See: Price Family
The children were all born in Jack County, Texas
Children:
John Earl Kelsay, son of John Milton Kelsay and Susan Denton, was born 9 November 1884, in Wichita, Kansas, and raised in Oregon.
He was married 3 August 1922, at Azusa, Los Angeles County, California, to Olive Mae Haley, who was born 30 November 1895, at Oak Valley, Otter Tail County, Minnesota, daughter of Willard Haley and Paulina Hammond.
John was a rancher and construction engineer. He died 19 January 1946, at Merced, California. Olive resides in Chowchilla, California.
Children:
Joshua Harlen Kelsay, son of Newton Jasper Kelsay and Sarah E. Hawkins, was born 19 June 1861, in Washington Township, Shelby County, Indiana. After the death of his father, he was raised by his uncle, Harlen Kelsay,
He was married 10 September 1882 in Shelby County, to Mary Cathrine Fenn, who was born 8 July 1863, and died 22 February 1930.
Joshua died 9 November 1931, in Howard County, Indiana. They are both buried in the Albright Cemetery near Kokomo, Indiana.
Children:
John M Kelsay, son of Newton Jasper Kelsay and Sarah E. Hawkins, was born 20 March 1866, in Shelby County, Indiana. He lost his parents at a young age, and was raised by his grandmother, Rebecca Hawkins in Washington Township, Shelby County, Indiana, who was born in 1808/9 in New York.
John was the only Kelsay living in that township on the 1880 Census. John graduated in 1886 from Central Normal College in Danville, Indiana, as a teacher, but never taught school.
He was married to a fellow student, in 1887, Flora S. Harrison, who was born 7 September 1864, in Michigan near the Canadian border.
John worked as a combination storekeeper and Postmaster in Terre Haute, Indiana. They were a handsome couple. John was a poised and debonair looking gentleman, and Flora was an attractive slim woman with long black hair. After a few short years of marriage, though, Flora became quite ill with tuberculosis. Fearing for her life, in 1895, John decided to take his wife and family to Colorado, in the hopes that the climate might heal her lungs. It was a long trek; Flora was quite weak and had to be moved on a stretcher.
John bought a farm and a dairy in Rocky Ford. Colorado did help Flora. She eventually lost one of her lungs, but recovered, and lived to be 59 years old. Flora's parents moved from Michigan to near Elkart, Indiana, and John and Flora visited them there.
In 1908, John and his son Kenneth contracted typhoid fever. They were the only persons to contract this dread disease in the vicinity of Rocky Ford, and it was never known what caused them to catch it. Both were hospitalized; Kenneth recovered, but John did not. Against the nurse's orders, John got out of bed and attempted to use the bathroom. He lost his balance and fell hard to the floor, which caused a hemorrhage, and he soon died.
He died 9 August 1908; Flora died 11 February 1924, both buried in Valley View Cemetery.
Children:
Charles W. Kelsay, son of Harlen Kelsay and Phoebe Spurlin, was born 4 April 1869, in Shelby County, Indiana.
He was married 9 January 1890, to Leona Dillman, who was born 10 July 1872, and died 19 October 1943.
Charles died 23 October 1948, near Hartford City, Indiana. They are buried in the I. O. O. F. Cemetery in Hartford City.
Children:
Eunice Victoria Kelsay, daughter of Harlen Kelsay and Matilda Jane Banks, was born 23 January 1887, in Indiana, probably near Hemlock. She was a birthright Quaker, and attended Earlham College in Indiana.
She was married 3 September 1915, in Chicago, Illinois, to Dr. William E. Carey. They lived in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Carey committed suicide by cutting his throat. Eunice died in 1969, in Atlanta. She is buried in the Park Lawn Cemetery, near Amboy, Indiana.
Children:
H. Paul Kelsay, son of Harlen Kelsay and Matilda Jane Banks, was born 4 April 1888, near Hemlock, Indiana.
He was married in 1915 to Sarah A. Kelsey (no relation), who was born in 1891, and died in the 1918 influenza epidemic. She was buried in the Park Lawn Cemetery near Amboy, Indiana.
Paul was married/2 12 August 1939, to Edith Belle Layman, who was born 31 March 1902, in Tennessee. They were living in South Bend, Indiana, in 1948, when Lois died. Edith returned to Tennessee after Paul died. When last heard from, she was living in Knoxville.
Children:
Thomas Daniel Kelsay, son of Harlen Kelsay and Matilda Jane Banks, was born 18 August 1889, in Sharpsville, Indiana. He was christened at birth by his father as Daniel Thomas. He changed this around in later life.
Thomas first saw Grace Overman, when he was 12 and she was 11. He was riding in a buggy with his father on the way to Amboy. They drove past an attractive young girl skating on the ice in the side-ditch, and Thomas looked her over with more than a passing interest. He asked his father who the girl was and he replied, "It must be one of John Overman's girls because he lives along this road." By the time he had returned home, Thomas had informed his father that if he ever got married that was the girl he was going to marry.
Thomas and Grace both attended the South Union Quaker Church, and in 1909, he slipped a note to her in church that apologized for his bashfulness in not being able to talk to her, but he would like to accompany her to her abode. She eagerly accepted this invitation, and kept and cherished the note the rest of her life. So started a courtship, that was only slightly interrupted during the time that Thomas attended Purdue University, in Lafayette, Indiana.
He was married February 1, 1913, at her parents' home near Amboy, Indiana, to Grace Jane Overman, who was born 6 March 1890, in Miami County, Indiana, daughter of C-7,42(10)3. John Rue Overman and Alice Anna Larrison. (See Overman Family)
They were married by Rev. Clyde Watson. The Reverend and his wife, though quite elderly, were able to attend the 50th Anniversary of Thomas and Grace, held at the church. Rev. Watson called Thomas the best friend he ever had.
Grace was an attractive young lady. She was raised in the Quaker religion and had a sweet and sincere personality. Possessing strong physical strength and stamina, Grace always raised a big garden, helped her husband work in the fields, and take care of the livestock. As a girl she started a practice of always running to the mail box at the end of the lane, and was still doing this until she was in her 80's.
Grace and her children were all quite sick with the 1918 flu epidemic, but all recovered. An intelligent woman, she was widely read. She wrote occasional articles for publication. She and Thomas were both quite musical and sang for many church events.
Thomas took after his mother in both looks and temperament. He was a devout member of the Friends Church all of his life but had a deep reserve and was difficult to get to know. He had a high degree of intelligence and was a "pillar of the community." He was a farmer all his life, and loved it. He was over 6' tall, 200 lbs, with blue eyes, and a full head of hair, which grayed very late. The death of his only son in 1945, hurt him deeply.
He had been a Miami County, Highway Superintendent, a charter member of the Farm Bureau, director of the Miami County REMC for 25 years, member of the Converse Masonic Lodge; member of the Amboy Friends Church. He had won the 5 acre corn growing contest twice; had raised sheep and cattle and hogs. He was thrifty and owned 160 acres of good Indiana farm land.
In his mid-seventies, he developed prostrate trouble. Trying to avoid surgery, he spent much money on quack remedies, without avail. During a blizzard, his trouble became very acute and caused much damage. He had surgery immediately after, but it was too late, the prostrate gland was malignant. He never complained about his suffering during his last days, but retained his dignity and intelligent sense to the very end. On the last evening of his life, he held his wife's hand and prayed the most beautiful prayer she had ever heard. During the night he suffered a stroke, and was taken to the hospital in Marion. He died at 10:30 the next morning; it was 25 April 1968. He was buried at the Parklawn Cemetery, near Amboy, beside his son.
Even though Grace was in good health, she began to lose her memory, and it was thought best to place her in the Wesleyan Nursing Home on 11 November 1974. She was always a lady and retained a conscious awareness of her appearance, even then. At the age of 97 she suffered a stroke, and died 13 July 1987, in Marion, Indiana. She was buried beside her husband and son, in the Parklawn Cemetery near Amboy.
Children:
Daniel Martin Kelsay, son of Harvey Kelsay and Elizabeth Stephens, was born 8 November 1873, in Indiana.
He was married 6 November 1895, to Grace Mae Smith, who was born 14 October 1876, in Shelby County, Indiana, the daughter of Newton J Smith (born 9 August 1848 in Ohio), and Mary C___, (born 30 April 1853, in Ohio)
Martin and Grace lived in Shelby County, Indiana, and he was a painter by occupation. Martin enjoyed good health and lived to be 93. He retained his mental facilities up until his death, and was proud of the fact that he voted in every presidential election from the time he was old enough to vote. Martin went to the polls to vote in his last election in November 1964. He was then 91, and used a cane, but still voted. They took a picture of him entering the polls and it appeared in the Shelbyville newspaper.
Grace died in December 1960; Martin lived to be 93, dying 15 August 1967. They are buried in the Miller Cemetery, at Shelbyville.
Children:
Isom Emerson Kelsay, son of Harvey Kelsay and Elizabeth Stephens, was born 25 April 1876, Indiana.
He was married 24 November 1898, to Gertrude Scott, born in Virginia. Isom died of TB, 7 February 1915, and was buried in the Miller Cemetery, Shelby County, Indiana.
Children:
Inis Ardena Kelsay, daughter of John Earl Kelsay and Olive Mae Haley was born 28 October 1918, in Sheridan, Wyoming.
She was married 2 February 1940, to B. N. Redmond.
Children:
John Marshall Kelsay, son of Joshua Harlen Kelsay and Mary Cathrine Fenn, was born in 1883, in Indiana.
He was married/1 16 September 1906, to Margaret May Gasho, who was born in 1887, and died 2 February 1910.
John was married/2 30 April 1930, to Lenora M Hollingsworth, who was born in 1891, and died 13 May 1939. John died 7 September 1962. They are all buried in the Albright Cemetery in Howard County, Indiana.
Children:
Edna Emeline Kelsay, daughter of Joshua Harlen Kelsay and Mary Cathrine Fenn, was born in July 1888.
She married Harry Earl Harness, who died 30 October 1965. In September 1972, she was residing in Phoenix Arizona.
Children:
Harry Kelsay, son of John M. Kelsay and Flora S. Harrison, was born 26 January 1888, in Indiana.
He was married to Lucy Standlea, who was born 10 February 1887. Harry lived in Phoenix, Arizona, for 31 1/2 years, and was in the produce business. He died 12 June 1956, in Phoenix, coronary occlusion. He was buried in the Greenwood Cemetery.
Children:
Everest H Kelsay, son of John M Kelsay and Flora S. Harrison, was born 30 April 1890, in Indiana.
Everest had five wives, but only one child, with his first wife Eva Winfield Shore. He served in the navy during World War I.
His second wife was Florence Ethel Alltop, who was born 17 February 1898, in Camden County, Missouri, and died 7 May 1962, in California, buried in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale, California. She was daughter of Cyrus Mathena and Ella Victoria Stevens, who was a descendant of John Kelsay of Pennsylvania. Married/3 ?; Married/4 ?
After working at the Post Office in Trinidad, Colorado, Everest was admitted for a time in the V. A. Hospital. Upon release, he decided that the best medicine was to marry his 5th wife. Although he was around 70, he selected a young bride of 21 years. A divorce followed shortly.
Everest had John M Kelsay's family Bible, and placed it in a bookbinder's shop in Los Angeles, but forgot which one. He died 30 May 1968, in a nursing home in Los Angeles, and was buried in Val Halle Cemetery, Glendale, California, beside his first wife.
Children:
Kenneth Kelsay, son of John M. Kelsay and Flora S. Harrison, was born 17 August 1901, in Rocky Ford, Colorado. After high school, he went to Brawly, California, and worked in fruit and vegetables.
He was married there in 1925 to Florance Katherine Amet, who was born in 1902, daughter of Arthur and Florance Amet, who once owned an ostrich farm in Arizona. When the ostrich feather fad ended, they went broke and had to kill their ostriches, and then moved to Brawly. Kenneth's mother had died in 1924, and he and his new bride moved to Rocky Ford, to farm the home place. Katherine died 20 February 1969, in Rocky Ford.
Kenneth was married/2 to Jessie Highland, a widow who lived nearby, daughter of Anthony Monroe Sanders and Nancy Marie Bohanon. In 1976 Kenneth is still healthy and vigorous, friendly and congenial.
Children:
Consto R. (Dick) Kelsay, son of Charles W. Kelsay and Leona Dillman, was born 14 July 1890, near Hartford City, Indiana.
He was married 9 January 1913, in Hartford City, to Hazel Miles, who was born 29 October 1896. Dick was a farmer, and interested in politics, running for public office.
He died 16 May 1955, near Hartford City, and is buried in the IOOF Cemetery, in Hartford City.
In 1975, Hazel was frail, but had excellent mental capacity, and was still living on the family farm, State Road 3 North, of Hartford City. The children were all born near Hartford City, Indiana.
Children:
Lois Jane Kelsay, daughter of H. Paul Kelsay and Sarah A. Kelsey, was born in 1918, Laport, Indiana. She lost her mother when she was 3 weeks old, and was taken into the home of her uncle and aunt, Dr. and Mrs. William Cary, and was cared for as their own daughter.
Dr. Cary committed suicide, and this may have been a traumatic experience for her. She was a member of the First Friends Church of Chicago, and was graduated from the University of Chicago.
She was married in 1940 to Dr. Robert C. Hunter, who in 1948 was a Colonel, chief medical administrator of the army's 82 Airborne Division, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Lois died Thursday, 29 January 1948, in Fort Bragg, of carbon monoxide poisoning, in her car in a closed garage. It was suspicioned that she had committed suicide, but was officially reported as an accident.
Children:
Thomas Dale Kelsay, son of Thomas Daniel Kelsay and Grace Jane Overman was born 15 November 1913, near Amboy, Indiana. Dale's greatest love was the outdoors. At a very early age, he learned to trap, hunt, and fish. All through his life he was involved in outdoor sports. He was a handsome young man, 5'11", with blue eyes, and curly brown hair. In high school, he dated a little brown-eyed girl named Ruby Lucille Kendall, then attended one year at Purdue University, Lafayette, Indiana.
In May of 1933, Dale borrowed some of his mother's chickens without her permission, sold them, and bought himself a new suit. Without his parents approval, Dale eloped with Ruby Lucille Kendall, who was born 13 May 1916, in Miami County, Indiana, daughter of Virgil Ray Kendall and Esther May Roth. They went to Carrollton, Kentucky where they were married on 25 May 1933.
They came back and resided in Amboy for a short time, and then moved out of town onto the other farm that his father had bought near Amboy. Dale helped his dad farm up until his death. Ruby, like all farm wives, worked hard on the farm, driving a tractor, doing field-work, slopping the hogs, etc. Their home was without electricity or indoor plumbing.
About a year before he died, Dale drove a truck for Miller's Transfer Company located in Kokomo, Indiana. He took off the month of December 1945, to do corn picking on his farm. On the 13th, a very cold day, he was working near his parents' house, when the corn-picker became clogged. He stopped the tractor, and went back to clean it out, but failed to disengage the power take-off on the tractor. His left hand was caught by a mitten, and mangled by the snap rollers. His father was just coming out of his house, and went to his rescue. At first Dale refused to go to the hospital. Once there the doctors wanted to amputate his hand; he refused. Infection set in, and the family was distressed by the care he was receiving. He was moved to the Methodist Hospital in Indianpolis. The doctors, Emmet and Russell Lamb, declared that they could have saved his hand if he had been brought there immediately. As it was, he lost two fingers. He seemed to be recovering and was ready to go home, when tetanus showed up in his face and neck. The doctors could not save him. After much suffering, he died 22 December 1946. He was buried in the old Odd Fellows Cemetery, now known as Parklawn, near Amboy.
Ruby took his life insurance money and bought a two-story house in Amboy, and went to work in the office of the Telephone Company. Needing to support her family, she finally got a better job at the GM (Delco Radio Division) Plant, in Kooky, Indiana.
Ruby was married again, 17 January 1948, in the Friends Parsonage in Shelbyville, to Charles Edward Fenn, World War II Army Veteran, who was born 16 October 1925, in Kokomo, son of Charles H. and Stella Elizabeth Fenn. Charles became a beloved step-father, and he and Ruby loved each other deeply. In 1956, Chuck began a 24-year career in the new GM (Fisher Body) Plant, in Marion, Indiana, and Ruby was able to quit working. After the children were grown, Chuck and Ruby moved to Marion, enjoying many happy years.
In the winter of 1980, when they were planning a trip to Hawaii, Chuck developed a sore throat. After their return, it was diagnosed as an inoperable cancer of the throat. He died 1 April 1981, and was buried in the Gardens of Memory, in Huntington, Indiana, near the outskirts of Marion. Ruby went into a deep depression, and when her youngest son was killed in a truck/train accident five months later, it was more than she could handle.
On 1 November 1981, she drove to Matter Park, in Grant County, Indiana, and went into the waters of the Mississinewa River just below the dam. She was buried beside Charles.
Children:
Newton Harvey Kelsay, son of Daniel Martin Kelsay and Grace Smith, was born 13 November 1898, Shelby County, Indiana.
He was married/1 in 1920, to Edna Ruth Anderson, who was born 27 August 1904, the daughter of Elmer Anderson and Mary Jane Toll. They were divorced. Edna married a man named ___ Clark, and died 6 June 1966 in Tucson, Pima County, Arizona.
Newton was married/2 to Susie Pavy. They moved to Tucson, Arizona, where Newton died 30 January 1966. Susie was still living in 1975.
Children:
Russell Smith Kelsay Sr, son of Daniel Martin Kelsay and Grace Smith, was born 27 February 1914, in Shelby County, Indiana.
He was married 1 September 1835, in Shelbyville, Indiana, to Esther May Mullen, who was born 6 November 1911.
A painter by profession like his father, he owned and operated the Kelsay Painting and Decorating Company, in Shelbyville, Indiana, his two sons helping him in the business. From 1969 to 1965, they lived in Muskegon, Michigan. They belonged to the First Baptist Church, and he belonged to the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge.
On 27 November 1977, Russell died unexpectedly, with 1 day of illness, at the Major Hospital, in Shelbyville. He was buried in the Miller Cemetery.
Children:
Elmore Standlea Kelsay, son of Harry Kelsay and Lucy Standlea, was born 20 May 1915.
He was married 24 December 1937, to Lillian Langden. Elmore served in the U. S. Navy, in World War II, on a PT boat. Like his father, Elmore suffers from ulcers of the stomach. They live in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Children:
Robert Montell Kelsay, son of John Marshall Kelsay and Margaret May Gasho, was born 23 December 1908, in Tipton County, Indiana.
He was married 1 January 1932 to Ruth Barker, who was born 27 November 1909. In 1976, he is still living on a farm in Howard County, Indiana. He has the Joshua Kelsay family Bible that was presented to Mary C. Fenn by Jesse P Fenn on 27 January 1891.
Children:
Grace Louise Kelsay, daughter of Kenneth Kelsay and Florance Katherine Amet, was born 2 April 1929, in Rocky Ford, Colorado.
She was married 11 February 1946, in Raton, New Mexico, to James Robert Taylor, who was born 10 November 1924, son of Lee E. Taylor and Kathryn Elizabeth Yeargan. In 1976, they live in Hotchkiss, Colorado.
Children:
Flora Lee Kelsay, daughter of Kenneth Kelsay and Florance Katherine Amet, was born 21 February 1934, in Rocky Ford, Colorado.
She was married 28 July 1950, to William D. Engle. In 1976, they are living in Tuscon, Arizona.
Children:
Charles Frank Kelsay, son of Consto R Kelsay and Hazel Miles, was born 13 December 1913, near Harford City, Indiana.
He was married 27 June 1941, to Henrietta Risk, born 21 December (?); resided St. Petersburg, Florida 1975
Children:
Elmo Glenn Kelsay, son of Consto R Kelsay and Hazel Miles, was born 5 May 1919, near Hartford City, Indiana.
He married 18 August 1940, to Frances Hogan, born 27 October 1922; resided 1975, in Shreveport, Louisianna
Children:
Judith Ann Kelsay, daughter of Thomas Dale Kelsay and Ruby Lucille Kendall, was born 12 December 1933, near Amboy, Indiana. She was a good student, "Track Queen," and varsity cheerleader.
Judy was married/1, 13 July 1952, in the home of the groom in Bunker Hill, Indiana, to Donald L. Riggle, son of John Riggle. Don served 4 years in the U. S. Air Force.
They lived in Arizona, and then with their baby, lived in Japan during Don's tour of duty there. They returned to Kokomo, Howard County, Indiana, where Don worked as a machinist at the Delco Radio factory. They were divorced in April 1960. Don later remarried and died of cancer.
Judy was married/2, 26 November 1960, at the home of her aunt, Mrs. Richard Maple, in Kendallville, Indiana, to Walter R. Petty, from Greentown, Indiana. Walter had a small daughter, Tammy; his first wife died in a car accident.
Judy and Walter, and the two little girls settled in a new house near Greentown, Indiana. Walter became Inspection Foreman for the Chrysler Corporation, in Kokomo, Indiana. In the 1965 "Palm Sunday Disaster," their home was completely destroyed by a tornado. Judy and the girls were at a movie in Kokomo, but Walter was in the house at the time it hit. Fortunately, he was only slightly injured.
They rebuilt the house, but later sold it, and moved closer to Kokomo. Judy attended the Wright Beauty College in Kokomo, receiving her instructors license in October 1968, where she then taught for several years. Highly successful, she traveled, and won many awards, then decided to quit working. She has since returned on a part time basis. Judy was baptized on 13 January 1963, at the Christian Church in Jerome, Indiana, near Greentown.
Children:
Frederick Dale Kelsay, son of Thomas Dale Kelsay and Ruby Lucille Kendall, was born 20 May 1935, near Amboy, Indiana. According to Fred he was an onery child, and an indifferent student. He was an Eagle Scout, and joined the National Guard his last year in High School. He then joined the Army, and spent one and a half years in Korea. He was discharged 1 June 1956, from Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, as a Staff Sargeant. On the GI bill, he studied in Chicago, to be a machinist, and worked 8 hours as a turret lathe operator at Crane Company. After a year and a half of this strain, he returned home to Marion, and worked 9 years at Fisher Body Plant.
He was married 27 September 1958 in Converse, Indiana, to Carol Ann Dennison, who was born 1 November 1943, in Marion. Fred went into the Pizza business, working 14 hours, seven days a week. They were divorced 1 June 1967.
Fred had two more marriages that were brief, ending in divorce, while living in Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. He was married/2 in 1968, to Laura Jean Iacovacci; and married/3 in 1970, to Jeanne LaVonne Nebur.
He became a journeyman iron-worker, working in a powerhouse in Indeanpolis, and a bank in Muncie, Indiana. In December 1971, he bought a travel trailer and headed for warm weather, intending to help build Disney World, in Orlando. In the middle of January he was in Atlanta, Georgia, low on funds. The "temporary" job he got, became permanent. His marriage/4 in 1973 to Edith Mae Ebeck lasted three years.
He was baptized 2 May 1976, in Marietta, Georgia, and is now a member of Fortified Hills Baptist Church, in Smyrna, Georgia. He was married/5 in 1981, to Beverly Gayle Morgan, and divorced in 1985.
Fred was married/6 6 June 1988, in Marietta, to Sharon Sue Weisenfels, who was born 8 November 1952, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. She moved with her family to Little Rock, Arkansas, and then in 1984 to Atlanta Georgia. Sharon has a son, Scott D. Weisenfels, born 25 December 1973, who lives in Searcy, Arkansas.
Children:
Bruce Lee Kelsay, son of Thomas Dale Kelsay and Ruby Lucille Kendall, was born 13 January 1939, near Amboy, Indiana. Bruce liked the out-of-doors and spent a lot of time netting butterflies. He had a good entomology collection that won awards; he was an Eagle Scout, and an excellent trumpet player; he was on the track team. He joined the Air Force in November 1957, for a four-year term. Bruce then went to New York, and studied theater at the Neighborhood Playhouse, and worked at the Philharmonic Hall at Lincoln Center for five years.
He was married 11 March 1967, in New York City, to Maria T. Thiesen, of Queens, who was born in Brooklyn, daughter of Mr. Thiesen, who was born in Germany.
Bruce and Maria lived in New York about a year and a half, then moved to near Rochester, New York. In 1971, they moved to North Manchester, Indiana. In 1975, they bought 40 acres of land with a house, near Akron, Indiana.
Bruce was always very good at painting and woodcarving. He made all of his own furniture, and did extensive remodeling of his house. He worked for General Telephone.
On 8 September 1981, on his way to a job in his telephone truck, he was killed at a railway crossing near Atwood, Indiana. His body was cremated, and his ashes were scattered over the land that he and Maria had bought near Silver Lake, that he loved so much.
Children:
Robert Gene Kelsay, son of Newton Harvey Kelsay and Edna Anderson, was born 9 January 1927.
When he was 18 and in the army, he was married to Marjorie Buttons, who turned out to have married two other GIs.
He was married/2 to Bonnie Jane Owen, in Indiana, and divorced.
He was married/3 to Jo Lee Reed.
He was married/4 to Herlinda Aviles Mendoza, and divorced, and no children. She reportedly returned to Mexico City. Robert, a college professor, taught at the University of Florida.
Robert was married/5, to Jacquelyn Ann Nixon, and in his correspondence of March 1973, he reported that he had found a good one. They were expecting twins.
In 1973, Robert and Jackie were living in San Diego, California, where he was in charge of Community Planning for the County of San Diego. He was teaching a class at United States International University in his spare time.
Children:
William Martin Kelsay, son of Newton Harvey Kelsay and Susie Pavy, was born 1 October 1929, in Shelbyville, Indiana.
He was married 29 December 1952, in Silver City, New Mexico, to Jeri Diana Kuester, who was born 8 August 1931, in Marion, Indiana.
Children:
Debra Lynn Kelsay, daughter of Frederick Dale Kelsay and Carol Ann Dennison, was born 16 May 1959, in Marion, Indiana.
She was married/1 7 April 1978, in Converse, Indiana, to Steven Wayne Haskell, who was born 26 August 1957, at Marion. They were divorced.
She attended Fort Wayne Business College, and is now employed there as an officer and closing agent for Waterfield Mortgage Company.
She was married/2 on 12 August 1989, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Tim Harold Witte, born 24 November 1954, in Fort Wayne, son of Harold August Witte and Gertrude Helena Buesching.
Children:
Ronald Dale Kelsay, son of Frederick Dale Kelsay and Carol Ann Dennison, was born 26 October 1960, in Peru, Indiana. He graduated Ball State University, in Muncie, Indiana.
He was married 24 September 1983, in Converse, Indiana, to Darla Jo Burdette, who was born 26 June 1959, in Marion, daughter of Marion Burdette (born 7 September 1931, Davis County, Kentucky) and Rosalillee Wilson (born 2 February 1935, Gas City, Indiana).
Ronald is a Personnel Manager for Target Dept. Stores, and is attending Law School in the evenings at the University of Arkansas, in Little Rock.
Children: