Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Snyder (Ashton)

Lucinda Beerbower Snyder v Ashton C. Snyder (Journal 13 p360 - 23 Dec 1885; Roll 42 Box 139 case number 1518 - 19 Sept 1885)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married in Bryan, Wms Co on 14 Jan 1869 (Marriage V4 p38).  Lucinda, born 23 Feb 1843 in OH, was the daughter of Samuel and Virginia Jane Oliver Beerbower.  By the 1850 Jefferson Twp federal census, p25, and the 1860 Jefferson Twp federal census, p173A, the Beerbowers were early residents of this county.  Ashton, b1844 Lawrence Co, PA, son of Abraham and Jane Snyder, removed to Columbiana Co, OH c1858.  He enlisted in the 32^nd OVI  Co A in 1861 and saw action at the siege of Vicksburg and the Atlanta, GA campaign.  Ashton received an honorable discharge in 1864; he reenlisted and after the Civil War he briefly settled back in Columbiana Co before moving west and setting up roots in Jefferson Twp, Wms Co. (History of Williams County, Ohio, Goodspeed, 1882, p762).

In the 1870 Jefferson Twp federal census, p32, the couple lived with her parents as Samuel Beerbower 55 PA, Jane 53 KY, Ashton C. Snyder 26 PA, Lucinda 23 OH, Lucinda 3/12 OH.  The Wms Co birth records showed several children born to this couple: Cynthia Lucinda “Ella” (26 Jan 1870 - V1 p11), William or Willard (6 May 1875 - V1 p84), unnamed female “Verna Jennie” (23 Mar 1878 - V1 p105).  William died on 20 Aug 1875 @3M 20D and was buried in the Floral Grove Cem, West Unity, Brady Twp, Wms Co, OH.  In the 1880 Jefferson Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p526 Ashton and Lucinda Snyder were enumerated with their two daughters, Syntha E and Verna J.

Lucinda charged Ashton with gross neglect and extreme cruelty.  On 20 Mar 1885 at their home Ashton threatened her with a large knife.  On 1 Apr 1885 he left home and his whereabouts were unknown to her.  She wanted a reasonable alimony of $500, exclusive custody of daughters Ella and Jennie with no visitation rights for the father, and restoration of her maiden name.  She informed the court that she was a legatee of her father, Samuel Beerbower, concerning 80 acres of land in Jefferson Twp.  A legal notice was posted in the "Bryan Press", 5 Nov 1885. The court granted all of her requests.  Lucinda later married Lewis McClannahan on 25 Mar 1890 in Wms Co (Marriage V5 #204).  In the 1900 Superior Township, Williams Co, OH federal census Lucinda Snyder is living with her daughter and son-in-law, Cyntha and Emory O. Miller; she was 57 OH-PA-KY and listed as a widow.  From the 1910 Superior Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p1A Lucindy Snyder, widow, 57 OH-PA-KY was living with the same daughter and son-in-law (Ella and Oliver Miller); she was the mother of three with two living.  Note her age stayed the same from the 1900 to the 1910 census.  Lucinda died on 31 Mar 1915 in Montpelier, OH.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Snow (William Harvey)

William Harvey Snow v Minerva Catherine Jenkins Snow (Journal 7 p219 - 4 Nov 1868; Roll 20 case number 1 - Nov 1868) - see Lightfoot

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married in Wms Co on 9 Feb 1853.  William, born on 18 Dec 1832 in Ross Co, OH, was the son of Philip and Eliza Harvey Snow. Catherine, b1827 in Jackson Co, OH, was the daughter of James and Margaret Radabaugh Jenkins; they were enumerated in the 1850 Jefferson Twp federal census, p24B, as James Jinkins 45 VA, Margaret 44 VA, and Catherine 23 OH.  According to the 1860 Brady Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p the Snows were listed as William H 47 OH, Catherine 30 OH, Eugene 4 OH, Mary 2 OH, James 9/12 OH, Loesa Down 13 OH, and William Snow 57 MA.  Note that William H should be 27 based on future census results.

William charged that his wife was willfully absent for three years or more and that on 28 July 1865 she left him for an unknown residence.  The couple may have a son Harvey who died on 11 Aug 1855 @2Y and was buried in Julliard Cem, Brady Twp, but they had another son, Eugene Harvey Snow, born 17 July 1855.  A legal notice appeared in a local paper.  The divorce was granted.  William married Mary Ann Bostater, daughter of Jacob and Catherine Mocherman Bostater, in Williams Co, OH on 31 Dec 1868.

According to the 1870 Brady Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p9B, William H Snow was enumerated as 34 OH, wife Mary 26 OH, Eugene 16 OH, Mary A 12 OH, Wesley 10 OH, Abbey 9 OH, John F 2 OH, and William Lightfoot 62 OH. From the 1880 Brady Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p506 William H Snow was listed as 47 OH, wife Mary A 37 OH, son John 11 OH, Ella 8 OH, Elizabeth 5 OH, and William 2 OH. By 1900 William lived in Stryker with wife Mary, who later died in 1908 while William passed away on 4 July 1910 in Bryan, OH.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Snow (William)

William Snow v Rachael Ferris Snow (Journal 4/5 p367 - Apr 1855; Roll 9 case number 127 - Nov 1855)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married in PA on 15 Sept 1819.  Rachael, 1799 in MD, was the daughter of William and Lauranna Ferris; William’s parentage has not been currently discovered. The couple was enumerated in the 1850 Brady Twp federal census, p11B, as William 56 MD, Rachel 48 MD, John 25 MD, Mary 18 OH, Anna 16 OH, Stattle (m) 12 OH, Elijah 9 OH, Elisha 9 OH.

William charged his wife with being willfully absent for three years or more.  He stated that in Oct 1851 she left for Indiana.  The couple had the following children with their birthdates: John W (12 Dec 1824), Peter T (7 Feb 1827), Samuel F (10 Feb 1829), Mary Jane (29 Apr 1831), Anna Maria (27 June 1835), Benjamin S (16 Dec 1837), and twins Elisha P and Elijah T (9 Jan 1841).  He had 160 acres of land.  Rachel countersued stating that he was guilty of gross neglect and had ill-treated her.  He beat her in the wee hours of night with clubs and threw her from the house.  It became dangerous for her to live under the same roof with William.  A legal notice appeared in a local paper.  A divorce was granted and William paid alimony.

According to the 1860 Washington, Wayne Co, IN federal census p406 Rachael was listed as widow 61 MD along with her son John W 34 MD; in the 1870 Washington, Wayne Co, IN federal census p626A Rachael Snow was again enumerated as 71 MD along with son John Snow laborer 43 MD.  Rachael’s son Peter Thomas also lived in Wayne Co, IN until his death at the Battle of Chickamauga during the Civil War.  By 1880 Rachael’s son, John Snow, lied at the Wayne Co, IN poor house.  Rachael may have died between 1870-1880.  

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Snow (Jesse)

Rebecca Blair Snow v Jesse Snow (Journal 6 p246 - 3 Dec 1862; Roll 16 case number 23 - Dec 1862)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married on 21 Nov 1838 in St. Joseph Twp, Wms Co by Samuel Slater, JP (Marriage V1 p31). Jesse Snow, parentage unknown, was born c1814 in NY. Rebecca, born c1817 in PA, was the daughter of James and Nancy Blair.  James Blair’s will (Probate #32, dated 12 Sept 1839) in Wms Co listed his children: Wright, Seth, Fanny Fowler, Rebeckah Snow, and Nancy Blair.  According to the 1840 Farmer Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p216 Jessee Snow was enumerated as 20-30 with an under 5 year old male and a 20-30 year old female. They were the parents of Jesse Snow Jr. who was born on 7 Jan 1847 and died two days later. In the 1850 St. Joseph Twp federal census, p82, the Snow family was listed as Jesse 36 NY, Rebecca 33 PA, Benjamin 11 OH, Fanny 9 OH, and Mary 1 OH. In the 1850 Weaverville, El Dorado Co, CA federal census p263 Jesse Snow 36 NY was enumerated with two of Rebecca’s brothers, Wright and Seth Blair along with John O Conrad; they were all listed as mining for gold. In the 1860 St. Joseph Twp federal census p112a, Rebecca Snow 43 PA was head of house with Snow children Benjamin J 21 OH, Fanny 19 OH, May 11 OH, Farnham 6 OH, and farm laborer Hiram Brown 25 OH.

Rebecca stated that Jesse abandoned the family on 22 Apr 1856 and the last she heard of him was on 4 Jan 1858.  He supposedly went to California.  He was the owner in fee simple of land. Daniel Farnham owed him $575.  Hiram Byers had his money. Their children were Benjamin J (23), Fanny H Slater (Edward of Milford Twp, Defiance Co, OH) (21), Mary B (13), and Fenniman F (8). She received alimony of $490.  In the 1870 St. Joseph Twp federal census p32, Rebecca 53 PA continued as head of house with youngest son Farnaham 16 OH.  Her daughter Fanny died c1872.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Smitley

Ellen Rebecca Borton Smitley v William Y. Smitley (Journal 11 p490 - Dec 1882; Roll 38 case number 1065 - 4 Oct 1882)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married in South Wright Twp, Hillsdale Co, MI on 19 Aug 1866; a license was taken out in Wms Co on 3 Apr 1866 but no return was recorded (Marriage V3 p546).  Ellen charged that William was willfully absent for more than three years.  She wanted custody of the minor children, Permelia (10), Estella (8), and William (6).  A legal notice appeared in the Bryan Press.  The 1870 Camden South Ward, Camden Co, NJ federal census showed that Ellen Smitley 19 NJ and her daughter Permelia b Dec 1869 NJ lived with Ellen’s sister, Sarah A Davidson and her husband Samuel, and next door to Ellen’s parents.

Ellen R was born on 25 Sept 1850 in Camden Co, NJ; she was the daughter of Charles and Permelia Sitley Borton.  According to the 1900 Brady Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census Ellen had married Frank Dibert c1884; Frank, a day laborer, was born in Apr 1860 in OH; his father was a native of PA and his mother was a native of VA.  Ellen’s son William Smitley, born June 1875 in PA, and daughter-in-law, Etta Coleman Smitley born Oct 1882 in OH, lived with the couple.  Ellen had four children with three living as of 1900.   Ellen died on 9 Dec 1913 in Brady Twp, Williams Co, OH and was buried in the Floral Grove Cemetery in West Unity.  Frank Divert, son of Henry and Rebecca Fickle Divert, died on 22 May 1936 and was also buried in Floral Grove Cemetery.

Perhaps the following details will help the reader to understand Ellen’s further problems with her husband. William maliciously threatened to destroy the property of George R. Joy in the amount of $700 and George felt personally threatened by him.  William was required to give bail in the sum of $1,000 for his appearance before the Probate Court in Williams Co (case number 1164).  He failed to comply and was taken into custody and placed in jail on 1 Oct 1867.  He had also taken a woolen shawl valued at $3 from Andrew Buzzbee on 24 Sept 1867 in Hillsdale Co, MI.  His bail was set at $200.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Smith (Benjamin)

Catherine Dull Smith v Benjamin A. Smith

Assault with a Deadly Table, Divorce in Williams County, Ohio, 1883-1887

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

Catherine Dull, daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth Dull of Rudsburgh, Plain Twp, Wayne Co, OH, married Benjamin A. Smith on 9 Dec 1866, Wayne Co, OH (Marriages V6 p498); the Reverend Penn officiated at the ceremony.  The 1860 federal census for Rudsburgh p260-261 shows Abraham Dull 46 PA, Elizabeth 44 PA, Daniel 19 PA, Catharine 15 PA, Nathaniel 11 PA, Albert 6 OH, Irvin 1 OH, and Catharine Smith 69 PA widow.  Perhaps the Dulls and the Smiths were related before this marriage.

The Smith couple had a son, Harvey, born 16 Jan 1868.  According to the 1870 Clinton, Plain Twp, Wayne Co, OH federal census p120A AB Smith family was represented as AB 25 OH farmer, Catherine 24 PA, Harvey 3 OH, and farm worker Edgar Welsh 21 VA. The time frame of the Smiths arrival here is not known, but in the 1880 Bryan, Williams Co, OH federal census p659 the Smiths were listed as AB Smith 35 OH-MD-MD, Catherine 34 PA-PA-PA, and Harvey son 12 OH-OH-PA.

Catherine appeared before the Williams County, Ohio Civil and Criminal Court (Journal 12 p164 - 18 Dec 1883; p274 - 12 Apr 1884; Roll 39 Box 135 case number 1186 - 8 Aug 1883) stating she had been a resident of this county for more than six years.  On 6 July 1883 husband Benjamin had been extremely cold and distant towards her; on 27 July 1883 he assaulted her with a table while she was eating.  He yelled, "D**** you, if you don't get out of this room, I will smash you."  Catherine left.

This desperate housewife requested a restraining order to keep Benjamin from disposing of his real estate, Lots 24 and 25 in Edgerton's 2^nd Addition, Bryan, which had several mortgages attached.  She also presented a list of goods owned by Benjamin, valued at $455 such as horses, wagons, a cook stove, and dishes.  By April 1884 the case was continued and apparently neither party took any further action until Nov 1886 (Journal 14 p79, 143, 263 - 16 Dec 1887) when Catherine appeared again requesting a temporary restraining order to keep Ben from selling the real estate.  The court awarded her $200 in June 1887 as alimony and on 16 Dec 1887 she was granted a divorce.  

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Smith (Alexander)

Mary E. Tuttle Smith v Alexander Smith (Journal 10 p155 - 21 Apr 1879)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

Mary charged her husband with gross neglect.  They did not show up in court.  The case was dismissed.   In the Fountain City Argus, 23 Jan 1879: Alexander Smith who resides in Crawford, Isabella Co, MI, must take notice that Mary E. Smith, on 24 Jan 1879 did file her petition charging gross neglect of duty and fraudulent contract of marriage and seeks a divorce.  Meeting in court on 24 Feb 1879 with no outcome.  Note this action was not found in the court roll, only in the journal.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Slough

Mary E. Miller Slough v Eli Slough

Civil War Soldier Plights His Troth Three Times in Hillsdale County, Michigan, Divorce in Williams County, Ohio, 1884

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

Eli Slough, b. 30 Mar 1842, New Washington, Trumbull Co, OH, son of Leonard and Christiana Hellina Beever/Bieber Slough, was a Civil War veteran, serving in the 150^th OVI and in Co C 195^th OVI.  According to a biographical sketch of his brother, Daniel Slough, in Presidents, Soldiers, and Statesmen, 1892, p630, the Slough family came to Wms Co c1865.  Their father Leonard was a native of Perry Co, PA while the mother was born in Wittenburg, Germany.  Brother Daniel was also a Civil War soldier, enlisting in Tiffin, OH in Co C 180^th OVI.  Their grandfather had been a veteran of the War of 1812.  The Slough family lived in Lykens, Crawford Co, OH according to the 1850 federal census p67B as Leonard Schleigh 31 PA, Ellen 31 Germ, Eri 8 OH,  Daniel 6 OH, and Mary A 2 OH.

Eli first married Michigan native Julia Annetta Stocking in 1865, Hillsdale Co, MI (Marriages Lib C p470); Annetta, born c1846 in MI, was the daughter of Timothy (FW in the census) and Sarah Stocking who lived in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw Co, MI c1850 and Bridgewater Twp, Williams Co, OH c1860.  The Slough couple had three known children, William L who died on 2 April 1867 and was buried in Cogswell Cemetery, Bridgewater Twp, Wms Co, OH; Florence (b1868); and Sarah H (b. 23 May 1873, Pioneer, Madison Twp [Births V1 p65]).  By 1870 Eli was a resident of Buchanan, Missouri; he was an agent for patent rights. Mother Julia died on 4 Nov 1874 @28Y 4M 23D and was buried beside her young son, William.

Eli next married Mary E. Miller, born 1 Oct 1847 in OH, the daughter of Jacob and Anna Stoner Miller, on 8 Apr 1875 in Amboy Twp, Hillsdale Co, MI (Marriages Lib E p178); Eli was 33 years old and Mary E was 27 years old.  Their witnesses were Josiah Slough and Maggie Miller. By the 1880 Madison Twp federal census, p476A, the couple was enumerated as EL Slough 38 OH, baker, Mary E. 33 OH, Florence 12 OH, Sarah E 7 OH.  The History of Williams County, Ohio, Goodspeed, 1882, p417, stated that EL Slough owned a restaurant in Pioneer, Ohio.

According to records of the Williams County, Ohio Civil and Criminal Court (Journal 12 p138, 279 - 2 June 1884; Roll 39 Box 130 case number 1176 - 24 July 1883) Mary E. Slough presented a list of dates for the court, asserting that her husband Eli had been unfaithful numerous times.  Eli had committed adultery with Anna Stauff on 25 Sept 1879, from 18 Sept 1880-15 Mar 1881 at their home in Pioneer with Sarah Cox, and on 15 Apr 1882 with Amy Cunningham.  Mary wanted a divorce and stated that she had separated from Eli on 23 Apr 1881.  After her initial appearance both parties mutually dismissed the case, but Mary returned to court in 1884 to restate her case. She charged that Eli had been willfully absent for more than three years. She informed the court that Eli had a property lot in Pioneer valued at $250 and an insurance policy with Continental Insurance Company on a stone building insured for $800 with the contents insured for an additional $200.  Eli claimed that he did not have much money to pay Mary any alimony.  Mary received her divorce, was restored to her maiden name of Miller, and awarded alimony of $50.

Mary's suspicions of Eli's adultery with Amy Cunningham must have been valid as Eli married Amy in Ransom Twp, Hillsdale Co, MI on 6 July 1884 (Marriages Lib F p60) after his wife divorced him.   Amy was the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Mary Munson Cunningham; she was born on 3 May 1861 in Fulton Co, Ohio.  By 1890 the Slough family lived in Defiance as evidenced by the Civil War Veteran’s Schedule. Eli died in Defiance, Defiance Co, OH on 13 Aug 1916; he was a veterinary surgeon.

Mary E. Miller married Jacob Schaeffer; she died on 11 Aug 1935 in Madison Twp, Williams Co, OH and was buried in the Floral Grove Cem, Pioneer, OH; her death certificate stated she was a widow.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Slocum

Sarah J. Bostater Slocum v George Albert Slocum (Journal 10 p261 - 18 Nov 1879; Roll 34 case number 678 - Nov 1879)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married in Medina, Lenawee Co, MI on 3 Oct 1878.  George, born on 13 Sept 1858 in NW Twp, Williams Co, OH, was the son of George and Wilhelmina Louisa Snyder/Schneider Slocum.  The family appeared in the 1860 Nettle Lake, NW Twp federal census p12, as George 39 NY, Louisa 31 Baden, William 14 OH, Martha 12 OH, Henry 8 OH, Rebecca 6 OH, Samuel 5 OH, Albert 1 OH.  In 1870 Bryan, Pulaski Twp federal census, p51, the family changed to Louisa 45 Prussia as head of house, Henry 19 OH, Albert 11 OH, and Elizabeth 9 OH. 

Sarah J, born on 27 Mar 1862 in OH, was the daughter of Abram and Cynthia Norton Jones Bostater, enumerated in 1870 Bryan, Pulaski Twp federal census p24, as Abram 35 carpenter (no birthplace), Cynthia 29 OH, Sarah J 8 OH, George 3 OH, Andrew 1 OH, and Elizabeth 30 OH deaf and dumb.

Sarah stated on 14 July 1879 she returned home from church in Bryan when George dragged her along the sidewalk.  He was arrested.  George had been a habitual drunk for three years or more.  Note that when this assault took place the couple had been married about nine months. She charged him with gross neglect as he did not supply her with food or clothing.  He was a temporary laborer.  A divorce was granted. 

In the 1880 Bryan, Pulaski Twp federal census, George was listed as George Slocum, boarder, 21 OH divorced laborer with Millard and Sarah Smith.  Sarah married Charles P. Vanolin in Wms Co on 19 Oct 1882 (Marriage V5 #229).  George married Lilly T. Venioh in Wms Co on 28 June 1888 (Marriage V5 #1256).  Lilly, born in Aug 1868 in Lockport, Springfield Twp, Williams Co, OH, was the daughter of Charles and Huldah Bronson Venoah.  They were the parents of seven children, Clara, Bertha, Nellie, Goldie, Nora, Charles, and Dolly. George died on 13 Jan 1906 in Tiffin Twp, Defiance Co, OH.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Sink

William H. Sink v Mariett Miller Sager Sink (Journal 9 p329 - 27 Dec 1877; Roll 29 case number 51 - Nov 1877)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

No marriage date was found in this divorce. William charged Mariett with habitual drunkenness for three years or more.  In the summer of 1868 he found out that she was false and fraudulent because she was already married to Willard Sager.  Jacob, born on 9 June 1838 in Philadelphia, PA, was the son of Jacob and Camilla Carrol Sink, who in 1850 lived in Vienna, Onieda Co, NY; in 1860 William traveled to Cloverdale, Sonoma Co, CA to live with his brother Daniel.

From the 1870 Titusville, Crawford Co, PA federal census the Sink family was listed as William H 32 PA hotel proprietor, Mary 28 NY, Camilla 72 MA living with her son, and numerous boarders. In 1874 William was the owner of a hotel in Bryan. On 10 June 1876 at their home in Bryan Mariett committed adultery with a Mr. Wilkinson. Her whereabouts were unknown.  A legal notice appeared in the local papers.  William was granted a divorce.

In the Williams Co, OH Directory, 1877, W. H. Sink was listed as the proprietor of Stough House on Lynn St, Bryan, OH, nearly opposite the depot; rooms were let for $2 per day.  According to the 1880 Tecumseh, Lenawee Co, MI federal census p480 William H. Sink was the proprietor of a hotel in Tecumseh and listed as 41 PA-PA-MA with numerous boarders.  In Tecumseh William married 18 year old Maryetta Nichols on 9 May 1882; he was 44.  He died on 5 Sept 1889 in St. Louis, Gratiot Co, MI.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Sinclair

Rachel A. Townsend Sinclair v James Sinclair (Journal 7 p406 - 9 Mar 1870; Roll 21 case number 146 - Mar 1870)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married on 11 Nov 1836 (Note I think it should be 1856) in Jackson, Jackson Co, MI.  Rachel claimed James was a habitual drunk for three years or more; they had children William Bryan (12) and Lucy Lucretia (10).  Rachel wanted a divorce and restoration of her maiden name.  A legal notice appeared in the Bryan Union Press. 

According to the 1860 Gorham Twp, Fulton Co, OH federal census p418 a Jas. Sinclair family was enumerated as Jas 33 MI, Rachel 19 MI, Charles 8 MI, William 2 MI, and Lucy 1 MI.  Using this census, Rachel would have to be born in 1841 so therefore the marriage date in the record may be false or the census information was incorrect.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Simon(s)

Mary Ellen Van Fossen or Turnipseed (from the record) Simon(s) v Richard Simon(s) (Journal 10 p401 - 13 Mar 1880)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

Mary charged Richard with extreme cruelty.  They had an infant daughter Hallah Mary.  The action appeared to be dismissed but I found reference in The Bryan Democrat, 19 Feb 1880, p5, which stated the divorce was granted and custody of child was given to plaintiff plus $500 alimony and plaintiff was restored to her maiden name of Mary E. Vanfossen; however, in the record Mary’s maiden name was Turnipseed.

From the 1870 NW Twp federal census, p13, Richard Simon 17 IN lived with his parents, Henry and Mary Wagoner Simon and they were enumerated as Henry 52 EN and Mary 53 OH plus siblings Aaron 20 OH, Ann R 15 IN, Olive C 12 IN, Harriet 8 IN, and George 22 OH, wife Sarah J 17 OH, and daughter Anna B 2/12 OH.  In the 1880 Paw Paw, Wabash Co, IN federal census a Richard Simons, a farm laborer, was enumerated as born 1853 IN.  In 1881 he married a Mary; a son, Elmer H, b 28 Nov 1886 NW Twp (Birth V2 p91) was born to this couple.   Later they were enumerated in the 1900 Woodbridge Twp, Hillsdale Co, MI federal census as Richard, Mary, and sons Leroy and Elmer.

On 28 Sept 1912 in Coldwater, Branch Co, OH Richard married Minnie B. Adams, daughter of Edward and Melissa Mott Purdy and former wife of Martin H. Adams.  By 1920 they lived in Steuben Co, IN.

In the 1880 NW Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p428, Mary E. Van Fossen, divorced, born 1857 OH was enumerated as step daughter of Hugh Thompson; his wife Susannah was born in Ohio c1837; also in the household was Mary’s daughter, Hallah M. Simons, born 1875 in OH; her father was a native of Indiana.  Backtracking to the 1860 NW Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p14 one finds mother Susannah with her small children, Eliza, Levi, and Mary.  The picture of Mary Ellen Van Fossen is now much clearer; she was the daughter of Joseph and Susanna Sickles Van Fossen.  Mary was born on 16 Aug 1856 in Williams Co, OH.  

After the divorce she married David Rice in Reading, Hillsdale Co, MI on 20 Mar 1881; she died in Jan 1899 and was buried in the Maplewood Cemetery, Reading, Hillsdale Co, MI.  Mary and David Rice had a son, Claude B. Rice, born 15 Nov 1885.  It would appear that Mary’s father, Joseph Van Fossen, left the family sometime before 1860 and traveled west to Kansas.  It is not know whether his wife Susanna sued for a divorce before she married Hugh Thompson on 18 May 1863 and Joseph married a Mary Bishop in Smith Co, KS.

Veteran's Day - 11 November 2010 - My Father

In honor of today's Veteran's Day, I would like to share some data on my father and his brother.  William G. Pattison and brother, Clyde Stuart Pattison, were reared in a family that was very proud to be "An American Family."  Bill and Clyde shared a Civil War ancestor, William S. Pattison, a War of 1812 ancestor, John Tarr, and several Revolutionary War ancestors, Samuel Culbertson, SR., Colonel Robert Culbertson, Robert Culbertson, John Lindsay, and Nathaniel Irish, JR. Dad was very proud to have served his country during WWII or as he called it - the Big One!  His brother Clyde carried the scars of bullet holes in his leg as his war trophies.  When the two got together, Uncle Clyde was the more vocal about his war experiences, but Dad, although often overlooked and perhaps under-appreciated by his own parents, represented the quiet man who did his duty, never complained, and represented himself well both on and off the field of battle.  Such is the man to be honored today.

My Father, William George Pattison

Youngstown Vindicator, Youngstown, Mahoning Co, OH, 28 June 1944 

Pvt Pattison Wounded in Invasion Battle Niles, OH - Clyde S. Pattison, aged 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Russell Pattison, 512 John St, is believed to be the first invasion casualty from Niles. A ranger, he was wounded while serving with the infantry in France, his parents have been notified. In a subsequent letter to his parents this week said, “I got more of them than I have holes in me.” A graduate of McKinley High School, he is a former football star. He enlisted in June 1942. A brother, Sgt. William Pattison, is stationed in Ireland.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Simmons

Annie M. Hopkins Simmons v Allen B or J. Simmons (Journal 13 p359 - 23 Dec 1885; p418 - 15 Mar 1886; Journal 14 p55/57 - 15 Dec 1886; p198 - Nov 1887; Roll 42 case number 1527 - 16 July 1886)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married in Edgerton, Wms Co, OH on 9 Oct 1880 (Marriage 4 p708).  The couple had children, Mary Margaret (b 25 Jan 1882, Bryan) and St. Elmo Nelson (b 24 Feb 1884, Bryan). Allen Simmons was born on 8 May 1859 in Stryker, OH, the son of James and Margaret Remow Simmons. James Simmons of Stryker, Springfield Twp, Wms Co, OH was enumerated in the 1860 federal census for that location p57B as James 46 PA day laborer, Margaret 23 CE, James 17 OH, Parker 15 OH, Ann 13 OH, Alonzo 9 OH, Orlando 6 OH, Albert 2 OH, Allen 1 OH, and John 19 OH.  In the 1870 Pleasant Twp, Putnam Co, OH federal census p444B the Simmons family was enumerated as James (JW) 55 PA, Margaret 34 CAN, and children Alonzo, Alfred, Albert, Allen 11 OH, Harvey, Margaret, and Samuel.  In 1880 Allen  21 OH lived in Clinton, Fulton Co, OH as a laborer with his sister Ann Tracy and her husband.

Allen stated that on 9 Feb 1886 Annie committed adultery with Grant Kauke in their home and in Bryan.  On 1 May 1886 she was unfaithful at the home of Simon Robbins in Bryan.  On 28 June 1886-1 July 1886 she committed adultery with an unknown man in the home of Milton and Catherine Hugh in Montpelier.   On 1 July 1886 she moved to a house of prostitution in Defiance owned by Amanda A. L. Hatfield.  On 10 July 1886 she committed adultery with unknown men.  Allen wanted custody of the children.

Annie provided an answer and filed a cross complaint; she charged Allen with extreme cruelty.  On 3 May 1881 he struck her in the face.  In Sept 1881 in Defiance he struck her with a piece of shingle.  In Aug 1882 in the home of Mr. Holly of Defiance he struck her hard enough to make her mouth and nose bleed, drew a revolver, and fired at her. In Aug 1885 in Bryan he seized her by the throat and choked her.  On 22 Aug 1885 he did this again plus twisted her wrists and threatened to kill her if she ever told anyone of this mistreatment.  For the past three years he was guilty of gross neglect and provided no necessities of life; she had to live off charity from friends.  Allen was also a drunk.  She wanted custody of the children. 

Allen countersued again on 15 Dec 1886 but the case was dismissed.  Annie brought action in June 1887 when she charged him with gross neglect and extreme cruelty.  A divorce was granted and maintenance of minors and visitation schedule was set up by the court.  According to the 1920 Toledo, Lucas Co, OH federal census p1A, Allen B. Simmons 63 OH lived with his son St. Elmo and daughter-in-law Norma.  Allen died in Toledo, Lucas Co, OH on 28 Oct 1937; his wife’s name was Alzina.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Silvernail

John S. Silvernail v Serepta Colvin Crafts Silvernail (Journal 6 p600 - 31 Oct 1866; Roll 18 case number 40 - Oct 1866)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married on 18 Sept 1840 in Auburn, Geauga Co, OH.  John Silvernail was born on 22 June 1802 in Dutchess Co, NY, the son of Philip and Catherine Simon Silvernail. He married his first wife, Polly Ann Clark, c1822; she died on 16 Mar 1840. 

Serepta Colvin, the daughter of Nehemiah and Lucy Butts Colvin, was born on 11 July 1806 in NY or RI, She was first married to William Crafts, 17 Nov 1840 in Auburn, Geauga Co, OH; William was born on 27 Nov 1801 in Middlesex, Yates Co, NY, possibly the son of John Crafts; William died on 27 Oct 1839 in Auburn as a result of a fall from a horse; he was buried in the Shadyside Cemetery in Auburn.

The 1840 Auburn Twp, Geauga Co, OH federal census p144 showed John Silvernail aged 30-40 living alone, and Serepta Crafts aged 30-40 with two children, one male aged 10-15 and one female under five.  The known Crafts children both born in Auburn, Geauga Co, OH were Lorenzo (b July 1833; d Aug 1834) and Aurilla (b 8 Sept 1835).   In the 1850 Wright Twp, Hillsdale Co, MI federal census p109A, the Silvernail family was enumerated as John 47 NY shoemaker, Serepta 43 NY, Richard 12 OH, Alonzo 2 MI, Adorna 1/12 MI, and Erilla Crafts 14 OH.  By the 1860 Wright Twp, Hillsdale Co, MI federal census p227, the Silvernails were listed as John SR 57 NY shoemaker, Serepta 54 NY, Alonzo 11 MI; they lived next door to John Silvernail JR 34 NY farmer, Eliza 29 NY, Urilla P 8 MI, and George A 7 MI.

John stated that his wife was willfully absent for three years or more in his divorce claim of Oct 1866 in Williams Co, OH.  “She may have returned to Auburn”.  A legal notice appeared in a local paper. The divorce was granted.  Less than a month later John Silvernail married Mary A. Church in Wms Co on 25 Nov 1866 (Marriage V3 p623).  From the 1867 personal property taxpayers listing John resided in Madison Twp, Wms Co. In the 1870 Wright Twp, Hillsdale Co, MI federal census p558, John was found as 67 years of age from NY and still a practicing shoemaker; he lived alone. John later died on 6 Sept 1872 in Wright Twp, Hillsdale Co, OH. 

Serepta Silvernail had indeed moved back to Geauga County as she was enumerated in the 1870 Burton, Geauga Co, OH federal census p44 with the following family: Alonzo Silvernail 22 MI farmer, Sarepta 64 RI, Seth 1 OH, and Theresa Hartson 11 OH.  Serepta Silvernail died of consumption on 19 Apr 1871 and was buried in Shadyside Cem, Auburn Twp, next to her first husband William Crafts; she was listed as a widow according to death records for that county.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Show

Hannah M. Edgar Show v George Henderson Show (Journal 5 p463 - 12 Mar 1859; Roll 12 case number 32 - Mar 1859; roll 12 case number 33 - Mar 1859)

 

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 12 January 2021)

 

The couple was married in Lansing, Ingham Co, MI on 27 Jan 1853.  They had a child, Edgar P Show, b 27 Apr 1856.  Hannah charged George with extreme cruelty during the latter part of June 1858 when he kicked, beat her with his fists, bruised her, and took her away from her friends and relatives.  After the child was born she was treated cruelly; she went insane and sought treatment in an asylum for lunatics in the North District, Ohio.  On 27 Mar 1858 he struck and pushed her; then he denied her food and medical attention.  Later he kicked her out and paid for a teamster to take her away.  On 21 June 1858 he pursued her to a boarding house in Bryan and was violent when he found her.  She stated she was a confirmed cripple.  George owned property in Lansing, MI and 200 acres in Calhoun Co, MI.  

 

While this divorce case was being heard, another case was brought to the Williams County Civil and Criminal Court (Roll 12 case number 32 - Mar 1859) by George H. Show who sued Thomas Kent, MD.  George may have been from Seneca Co, OH.  He charged that on 30 July 1858 Thomas procured and induced Hannah to go to Edwin J. Evans, JP, where George found her.  Thomas then beat, wounded, and ill-treated George.  This case was dismissed.

George H Show, the son of unknown parents, was born 26 June 1806, MD and died on 16 Jan 1877; he was buried in a cemetery located in Constantine Twp, St Joseph Co, MI.  He married Mary Ann McCardle on 3 Jan 1837, Huron Co, OH.  She died in 1852 and was the mother of Mercy E (1838-), Lewis Cass (1842-1921), Julia Maria (1844-1930), Estella (1846-), and George Henderson JR (1850 - 22 Dec 1874).  George next married Hannah Edgar, daughter of Henry W Edgar and Charlotte Webb, born c1829 PA.  Hannah was enumerated in 1850 in Lansing, Ingham Co, MI, as Hannah M 21 PA with her parents and siblings Dennis, Nelson W, Harriet, and Marshall.  She was the mother of Edgar P Show, born 27 Apr 1856 in Bryan, OH; Edgar later died in Chicago, IL 8 Dec 1905. In the 1860 Brady Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census little four year old Edgar is living with Abram and Electa Wighman, not with his father and half-brother.  

 

In the 1860 West Unity, Brady Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census p155b, GH Show was listed as 49 MD dentist and had son Henry 10 OH.  After the divorce George married his third wife, Mary Jane Ritchie on 12 Nov 1863 in Indiana.  In the 1870 White Pigeon, St Joseph Co, MI federal census one finds George Show 61 MD dentist with wife Mary J 33 OH.

1860 Brady, Williams, Ohio; Roll: M653_1052; Page: 149; Image: 304; Family History Library Film: 805052.
Edgar Show 4 OH living with Abram and Electa Wighman

In the 1870 White Pigeon, St. Joseph Co, MI George Show, 61 dentist Maryland, was enumerated with young wife, Mary J. 33 OH

George H Show 16 Jan 1877, Constantine Twp Cem, St Joseph Co, MI @71Y 6M 21D

1900 Bloomfield, Lagrange Co, IN
Show, EC P watch maker 44 (Apr 1856) OH-MD-PA with his wife, Loretta 44 IN and child

Edgar Carl Payne Show (1856 Brojon, OH  – 8 Dec 1905 Chicago, Cook Co, IL; bur Greenwood Cem, Lagrange Co, IN; jeweler) 49Y 6M – I think the birthplace is Bryan, OH and it appears this Edgar is the son of Hannah and George H Show.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Shouf

Iantha Jane Gilvic Cramer Shouf v Peter Levengood Shouf (Journal 13 p35 - Jan 1885; Roll 41 Box 140 case number 1425 - 27 Jan 1885) – see Langel

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married on 12 June 1881 in Bryan, Wms Co, OH according to Iantha but the marriage record showed the date as 12 May 1881 (Marriage V5 #3).  Iantha was recorded as Mrs. Cramer, but no information has been found as to whom she was formerly married.

Peter, born on 2 May 1842 in Ashland Co, OH, was the son of John Breckenridge and Nancy A. Franks Shouf.  The father was a manufacturer of bricks and came to Pulaski Twp, Wms co c1854, settling on land in Sec 31.The family was enumerated in the 1860 Bryan, Pulaski Twp federal census, p182B, as JB 54 PA, Nancy 52 PA, Solomon B 19 OH, Peter L 17 OH, John H 15 OH, Nancy 13 OH, Lemuel 11 OH, Mary J 9 OH, William 7 OH, and Eliza Fickle 17 OH inmate.  By 1870 the family was listed in the Bryan federal census, p22, as JB 59 PA, Nancy A 61 PA, Peter L 27 PA, William 17 PA, and Ellen Franks 23 PA domestic. 

Iantha Jane, b1863, pos Wyandot Co, OH, was the daughter of Charles and Sarah Rose Shaffer Gilvic. Her mother married Lucas M. Crist on 10 Jan 1864 in Wyandot Co, OH and the family was found in the 1870 Pierceton, Washington Twp, Kosciusko Co, IN federal census under Lucas Christ; they came to Wms Co in the early 1880's.

Iantha and Peter had two known children: an unnamed male, stillborn on 9 Apr 1883 and Wade G, b 4 Nov 1884, Bryan.  She charged that on 1 Sept 1884, while pregnant within weeks of delivery, Peter was extremely cruel; he knocked her to the floor and violently shook her.  The case was dismissed.  Peter died on 8 Aug 1918 and was buried in the Bryan Fountain Grove Cemetery; Iantha died on 3 Jan 1954 and was buried beside her husband.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Shobe

Ollie/Ota Dysas Shobe v Albert Shobe (Journal 13 p473 - 2 Apr 1886; p491 - 1 June 1886; Roll 43 Box 146 case number 1594 - 8 Feb 1886)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

The couple was married on 26 July 1883 in Edwardsburg, Cass Co, MI.  Albert left her and was in Ft. Wayne, Allen Co, IN as of Feb 1884.  On 10 Aug 1883 at their home in Elkhart, IN Albert violently beat her with a piece of wood and confined her to her room.  He had done this many times.  He was a habitual drunk and gave her no support.  The case was continued and later dismissed.

From their marriage certificate one learns that Albert was born in Ligonier, Noble Co, IN c1860 and Ota was born c1861 in Kendallville, IN.  From the 1870 Ligonier, Noble Co, IN federal census p265B Albert was 12, born in Iowa, and the son of Sophia Shobe 40 OH.  He may be the son of Ira and Sophia Jackson Shobe.  In the 1880 Perry twp, Noble Co, IN federal census p404 Albert is again enumerated with mother Sophia; he was listed as 22 IA laborer.  Possibly after this dismissed action, Albert married a Clara in 1894 and continued to live in the Ligioner, IN area until his death sometime after 1930.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Shellhart

Catherine Campbell Shellhart v Daniel Shellhart

Civil War Soldier Who Loved and Married Too Often, Divorce in Williams Co, OH, 1866

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

When I abstracted Williams Co, OH marriages many years ago, I found a couple who had married twice.  At first I thought I had made a mistake, but I have since discovered there was a powerful reason for this man marrying the same woman twice.  This genealogical detailing deals with a Civil War soldier who loved often and married often without benefit of legal procedures until his first wife headed for the divorce court.

Daniel Shellhart, b.28 May1826, Schuylkill Co, PA, son of Christian and Elizabeth Cook Shelhart, married Catherine Campbell, b.c. 1828, PA, parentage unknown, in Richland Co, OH, on 17 Nov 1847 (Marriages, V5 p77).  The couple was enumerated in the 1850 Blooming Grove Twp, Richland Co, OH federal census p163, as Daniel Shelhart 26 PA, Catherine 24 PA, William Romley 27 NY, Nancy Romley 26 PA, Laura Romley 2 OH, Christian Shelhart 2 OH, and William Shelhart 11/12 OH.

Apparently Daniel left his wife and children in Richland Co, OH and moved to Williams Co where he married Elizabeth Folk, daughter of PA natives Isaac and Elizabeth Folk, on 8 Nov 1855, Wms Co (V2 p161).  Elizabeth was b.c. 1835, Columbiana Co, OH. This couple was listed in the 1860 Jefferson Twp, Wms Co, OH federal census, p168A, West Jefferson PO, as Daniel Shellhart 32 PA, Elizabeth 24 PA, Harriet 4 OH, Sarah 3 OH, and Joseph 1 OH. Catherine and Daniel's son, Christian, lived with a Kamble family according to the 1860 Madison Twp federal census, p213. Daniel joined Co G 68^th OVI on 4 Jan 1862 as a private and served in the Union Army during the Civil War for 17 months.

Catherine Shelhart sought a divorce from the Williams County Civil and Criminal Court (Journal 6 p509, 592 - 31 Oct 1865; Roll 17 #83).  What caused her to wait until 1865 when he had been missing for about 12 years is anyone's guess, but Catherine told the court that her husband had willfully abandoned her and their two sons, Christopher Hulbart (30 Sept 1848, Richland Co, OH - 30 Dec 1911, Fallon, ND; m. Sarah Isabelle Harley, 23 Sept 1875, Polk, IA) and William B. (5 Oct 1849, Richland Co, OH; m. Olive C. Hill, 11 Nov 1873, Wms Co, V4 #303) on 1 Apr 1853.  Daniel had committed adultery with Elizabeth Folk, on many occasions and the couple was openly living as husband and wife with several children.  He did not have real estate known to Catherine but she sought this divorce and a reasonable alimony.  Catherine also sued Elizabeth's older brother, Jacob Folk, for his part in the supposed cover-up of this affair.

The court found Daniel Shelhart guilty of abandonment and awarded Catherine $500 in alimony plus the divorce on 31 Oct 1866.  Daniel's bigamy trial began on 3 Nov 1866 and he was found guilty of the charge, but since the court had granted Catherine a divorce, he was now free to legally marry Elizabeth Folk, which is precisely what he did on 14 Aug 1867, Wms Co (V3 p702). 

Daniel and Elizabeth Folk Shelhart had the following children: Harriet (1856 - ?; m. Alvaro D. Clark, 14 Oct 1879, Putnam Co, OH); Sarah Elizabeth (1857-1932; m1. John Wesley Cripliver, 18 May 1874, Whitehouse, Lucas Co, OH; m2. Horace Greeley Harbaugh, aft 1881); Joseph (16 Apr 1859 - 2 Dec 1861, bur West Jefferson Cem); Mary Etta (1862 - ?; m. Albert Chamberlain, 14 Dec 1882, Sandusky, Erie Co, OH); Joshua John(29 Feb 1864 - 6 Feb 1926, Toledo, OH; m. Martha Ellen Johnson, 13 Apr 1889, Big Rapids, Mecosta Co, MI).

Catherine may have stayed here after the divorce but one does know that as Catherine Kimmell she married John Klotz on 17 Nov 1868, Wms Co (V4 p27) and the couple were found on the 1870 Center Twp, Wms Co, OH federal census, p18, as John Klotz 49 WT, Catherine 40 PA, William Shellhart 19 OH railroader, and Kate Campbell 9 IN.  The relationship of the little girl to Catherine is not currently known, but Campbell was Catherine's maiden name.  In another part of the county in the 1870 Madison Twp, Wms Co, OH federal census, p15, one finds a William Shellhart 28 OH, Ruth A 26 OH, William 9 OH, Sophia D. 3 OH, Mary E. 1 OH, and Christopher Shellhart 21 OH.  This Christopher is the son of Daniel and Catherine, living with relatives.  Closeby in Madison Twp there was a Joshua Shellhart 33 OH along with his family, p3.

After the bigamy trial and subsequent remarriage to Elizabeth Folk, Daniel and his second family disappear, but in Williams Co on 29 July 1873 (V4 p286) a Daniel Shelhart married Jane Priest; whether this is our subject is not presently known, but our subject did become a groom once again on 20 Mar 1880, Sandusky, Erie Co, OH, when he married Eliza Birdsall.

The report of the Board of Managers of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers of the Ohio Soldiers and Sailors' Home, Sandusky, Erie Co, OH, 30 June 1895 listed (#2725) a Daniel Shelhart, Regiment G 68^th OVI, age 69, carpenter, widower, born in PA.  He had applied for a disability pension as an invalid on 20 June 1882.  This Daniel died on 30 Sept 1895 at this veterans' facility. More research needs to be done to prove this man is the Civil War soldier who is detailed herein.

In Yackee Cemetery, Center Twp, there is a tombstone inscription for a Catherine Klotz who died 20 Apr 1876 (Deaths, V1 p38), who may be Catherine Campbell Shelhart Klotz.  Again no sufficient proof has been currently discovered as to this supposition.

Divorce Action in Williams Co, OH - Shaffer (James)

Sarah Shultz Shaffer v James Shaffer (Journal 7; Roll 18 case number 83 - 12 Jan 1869)

By Pamela Pattison Lash (updated 2010)

Sarah stated that the couple was married on 1 June 1862, Wms Co, OH, but the record showed the date as 13 June 1863 (Marriage V3 p312).  Sarah, b1840 in Richland Co, OH, was the daughter of William and (Catherine Long or Barbara Snyder) Shultz. The 1850 Jefferson Twp, Wms Co federal census, p21, enumerated the Shultes family as William 45 PA, Catharine 40 PA, Joseph 20 OH, Susan 18 OH, Jacob 16 OH, Elizabeth 13 OH, Lewis 11 OH, Sarah 10 OH, John 9 OH, William 7 OH, Samuel 4 OH, and George 3 OH.  The 1860 Durbin Corners, Jefferson Twp federal census, p168B, listed the family as William 55 PA, Catharine 51 PA, Lewis 19 OH, Sarah 19 OH, John 17 OH, William 15 OH, Samuel 14 OH, and George 12 OH. In the 1870 Millcreek Twp federal census, p3, the family changed to Catharine 60 PA, Sarah 29 OH, and Samuel 24. 

Sarah charged James with gross neglect and abandonment.  He left her without clothing or food and went to parts unknown outside the state of Ohio.  She received help from her father who lived in Wms Co.  She obtained her divorce and was restored to her maiden name.

Sarah married Jacob Marks on 16 Mar 1871 in Wms Co (Marriage V4 p163).  Sarah and Jacob had two known children, Leroy (b 21 July 1875) and Mervin (b 14 July 1877).  Jacob appeared to be relation of George Marks, and possible son of Daniel and Hannah Marks of Millcreek Twp.  Sarah died between 1880 and 1900 as her husband Jacob appeared in the 1900 Alvordton, Millcreek Twp, Williams Co, OH federal census as a widower.