Descendants of the William Carpenters of the Bevis (1638)
Carpenter Cousins Encyclopedia of Carpenters - 2024 Update

Notes

19145. Armida A. Carpenter

Sources of information:  Pedigree chart made by Lorna Carter of Athens, MI sent to Donna Hellewell of Aptos, CA, by Lina Snyder, daughter of Rial A. Carpenter. The chart had no dates or places.   Birth dates are approximated from the 1893-94-95 Carpenter/Pierce Family Reunion Book of Athens, MI.  In 1894 Armida's daughter, Emma, was age 35, and Emma's children Earl and Elmo, were age 8 and 2.  Gertie and Ernest Swartz, Armida's grandchildren, were 9 and 16 respectively, and Estella Wilson was 13. Biographical Review of Calhoun County, Michigan, published by Hobart & Mather, Chicago 1904, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI, was also
used for information about Armida.

Armida lived in Athens, Calhoun, MI, coming from Middlesex, Ontario, NY sometime after 1853, until her death.

Armida's death date was also given as 8 Jan 1870. She is buried in N. Sherwood Cem. in Branch , MI.
The record read: "Armida, wife of J. L. Wilson, d. 26 Jan 1870, 37y10m18d."

Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Armida was married to John Wilson; they having four children, Mina Green, Ella Swartz, Emma Kirby and Lewis Wilson."

John Lewis Wilson

1870 U.S. Census, Kalamazoo, Wakeshma, MI, taken 16 Aug. 190/189 Wilson, John, age 45, MW, farmer, b. NY; Nina, age 19, FW, keeping house, b. NY; Ella, age 17, FW, b. NY; Lewis, age 16, MW, b. NY; Willard, age 13, MW, b. NY; Emma, age 11, FW, b. NY; Orrin, age 36, MW, day laborer. (We wonder the relationship of Orrin Wilson to the head of the household.  Perhaps he was a brother.  The mother of this family, Armida A. Carpenter Wilson died in January 1870.)

1880 U.S. Census, Kalamazoo, Wakeshma, MI, taken 4 and 8 Jun. 82/82 Swartz, John, WM, age 28, farmer, b. MI, father b. OH, mother b. MI; Elenor, age 27, wife, b. NY, parents b. NY; Viola A., age 4, daughter, b. MI; Earnest, age 2, son, b. MI; Wilson, John L., age 52, father-in-law, retired.

1880 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens Twp., MI taken 1 Jun.  12/12 Brownell, Benj. F., age 42, carpenter and joiner; b. NY, father b. RI, mother b. RI; Jenny, age 36, wife, b. NY, parents b. NY; Floyd O., age 3/12 b. Apr., son, b.
MI; Wilson, John L., age 54, boarder, farm laborer, b. NY, parents b. NY. (It is believed John L. Wilson was enumerated twice in 1880.)

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, Deaths, book 2, page 145, #46, 20 Jan 1891, Wilson, John L., male, white, widower, 65y, place of death Sherwood, cancer of stomach, b. NY, farmer, father Lewis Wilson, mother Abigal.

30558. William A. Wilson

1870 U.S. Census, Kalamazoo, Wakeshma, MI, taken 16 Aug. 190/189 Willard, age 13, is in the home of his father.

1880 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens, MI taken 1 Jun.  17/17 Wilson, William A., age 24, nephew, b. NY, parents b. NY, is in the home of Henry L. Carpenter, his mother's brother.

DEATH.  Emmet County Clerk, Petoskey, MI, 1904, p. 317, #82.  Died 15 May 1904 William A. Wilson, male, white, age 48y4m15d, place: Center, cause: Neplaitis, b. NY, occupation: laborer; father: John L. Wilson, mother: A-- Carpenter.

OBITUARY:  The Petoskey Record, Petoskey, MI, Wednesday, 18 May 1904, p. 5.  Local and Personal.  Wm. A. Wilson of Pellston, died Sunday, aged 48 years, 4 months, and 15 days.  The funeral took place yesterday, interment at Ely.  Item found in the Petoskey Library on microfilm October 1998.

The Athens Times.  June 10, 1904.  We have a report of the death of William Wilson, who formerly resided here, and was a brother of L. C. Wilson, of this place, but no more particulars than he died three weeks ago at Ealy, Michigan.

19146. Calvin Loomis Carpenter Jr.

Sources:  Chart in possession of Lina Snyder (d. 5 Mar 1982 at 104).  She was very instrumental in helping us locate members of the Calvin L. Carpenter family.  Four personal visits were made to this special lady.  One record of death for Calvin Loomis Jr. was Prairieville, but family death record said, Odin.

1850 U.S. Census, Naples, Ontario, NY, taken 16 July.  Loomis (Calvin Loomis) is 17, male, and in the home of his parents, Calvin Loomis Carpenter Sr., age 41, and Helenor (should beEleanor), age 46, and his other brothers and sisters.  Next door is his grandmother, Phebe Carpenter (Phebe McNair Carpenter), age 70, female, born, RI.

Carpenter Reunion journal said, "Loomis (Calvin Loomis Jr.) married Lucy Thayer and they had one son, John.  They lived in Barry , (MI) the greater part of their married life."

MARRIAGES. Branch County Clerk, Coldwater, MI, Book C, p. 362, #1826.Calvin L. Carpenter and Lucinda Thayer, "of the town of Sherwood, County of Branch, State of MI, 26 years, and Lucinda Thayer of the town of Sherwood, County of Branch, State of MI, age 20 years, and were joined together in Holy Matrimony by me at my house this 16 day of April 1859 in the presence of L. B. Simmons of Sherwood, W. W. Carpenter of Sherwood."  Filed at Branch April 20, 1859. J. B. Haviland, Justice of the Peace.  B. C. Webb, Clerk. (The above was a very poor copy to read, thus it was not abbreviated but copied entirely.)  It is also listed in "Early Marriages of Branch County, Michigan."

1860 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July.  2070/1881, Carpenter, Calvin, 27, male, b. NY; Lucinda, 28,  female, b. NY.

Michigan Volunteers, 1861-1865, p 19, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI. "Carpenter, Calvin L. Jr. Calhoun County. Enlisted in Company A, Eleventh Infantry, Aug 24, 1861, at Centreville, for 3 years, age 21.  Mustered Aug 24, 1861.  Transferred to Invalid Corps Dec. 1, 1863.  Discharged at expiration of term of service at Lexington, KY, Aug 25, 1864, from First Company, Second Battalion Veteran Reserve Crops.  Died July 19, 1894.  Buried at Prairieville, Mich." (He is buried in Plainwell, MI.)

1870 U.S. Census, Orangeville, Barry, MI.  83/83 Carpenter, Loomis, 38, male, farmer, owns real estate,  b. NY; Lucinda, 33, female, keeping house, b. Ohio; John C., 9, male, at home, b. MI; Jones, William L., 24 male, farm laborer, b. NY.  (He is a cousin. Loomis' father, Calvin L. Carpenter Sr. was a brother to William's mother, Phebe Carpenter Jones).

1880 U.S. Census, Orangeville, Barry, MI, taken 9 June. 102/102 Carpenter, Calvin L., WM, age 47, farmer, b. NY, parents b. NY; Lucinda, wf, wife, 43, b. OH, parents b. NY; John C., wm, 19, son, b. MI.  Chapman, James, wm, 29, boarder.  (In 1884 State Census, this James Chapman is 33, b. MI, parents b. MI, and Cora L., wife, 29, b. MI, parents by NY.)

1884 Michigan State Census, Orangeville, Barry, MI.  127/128 Carpenter, Calvin L., 51, male, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. RI; Lucinda, wife, age 46, b. OH, parents both b. NY; Carpenter, John, 23, husband, b. MI, father b. NY, mother b. OH; Addie, 25, wife, b. MI, father b. Canada, mother b. VT.

1894 Michigan State Census, Orangeville, Barry, MI.  202/222 Carpenter, C. L., 61, husband, b. NY, 41 years in MI, parents b. NY; Lucinda, 55, wife, b. NY, 35 years in MI, parents b. NY.  They said they had 1 child and 1 child is still living.

DEATH. Barry County Clerk, Hastings, MI.  B2, #152, Died 19 Jul 1894, in Oden (Emmet County), MI, Carpenter, Calvin Jr., b. MI,  61y6m0d, father: Calvin L. Carpenter; mother: Elnor.

Cem. Records: Hillside Cem., Gun Plain Twp. Hall, Plainwell, Allegan , MI.  Lot 96-B, C. L. Carpenter, age 61, d. 1894, lot owned by Lumice Carpenter.  Lucinda A. Carpenter, age 74, d. 1912; John C. Carpenter; Mary Addie (Bugbee) Carpenter Ponds, 78,residence Petoskey. Interred 8-4-1937.

The Carpenter Family Reunion Journal states:  "Died.  Calvin L. Carpenter Jr. died at the house of his son in Oden July 19th, 1894, aged 61 years, 4 months and 18 days.  Biography.  Calvin Loomis Carpenter, Jr. was born in Bristol, Ontario , NY., Mar. 1st 1833.  When 20 years of age he came with his parents to Michigan, and settled in Sherwood, Branch   In April the 16 day 1859 he was united in marriage to Lucinda Thayer.  Buying a piece of timbered land 3 miles west of the village of Athens, he erected a log house among the stumps, moved his family into it, commenced to make himself a home.  One child was born to them, a son.  In August 1861 when Lincoln called for 3 years volinteers he with a brother and several of his neighbors, enlisted to defend the flag he loved and honored.  Camped at White Pigeon untill sometime in Dec. the same year, when receiving orders to march to the front, ariving in Louisville, Ky. the first part of Jan. '62.  Remained there a few days, then moved over the mountains to Bardstown, being confined there in the hospital nearly all winter.  In April moved to Elizabethtown, then coming to Louisville, Ky. taking boat down the Ohio River and the Cumberland river to Nashville, Tennessee. Remained there until the latter part of Dec. when the army marched on Bragg at Stone river.  In that memorable battle of Dec. 31st '62 he received a gunshot wound to his shoulder disabling him untill the close of the war.  He was taken to Covington, Ky. doing duty in convalescent camp untill expiration of his term of service in '64. Soon after his return home he sold his farm in Athens and moved to Barry  where he resided untill his death.  He was a true and faithful soldier, ever at his post of duty.  He leaves a wife, oneson and many friends, both here and at his home to mourn his death.C. L. Carpenter was the eldest son of C. L. and E. D. Carpenter, of which there were 14, 10 of whom survive him, 7 brothers and 3 sisters."  (This was copied as written, including spelling errors.)

Visit 21 Aug 1992 to Hillside Cem., Plainwell, MI. Calvin Loomis Carpenter Jr. is buried with his wife, Lucinda, and their son, John Calvin, and his wife, Addie, on the side of the Cem. closest to the main road (M-89).  They are the first lots going back from the road, lot 96-B.

Lucinda "Lucy" Thayer

There is a sheet on Thayer genealogy, p. 341, #12 A 27 in the Archives Sheets at Salt Lake City Family History Center.

DEATH.  Barry County Clerk, Hastings, MI, 14 Mar 1912, Lucinda Carpenter, widow, 78y8m5d, died in Prairieville, MI.  Born in Ohio; father: John Thayer; mother:  Anna Wilcox.

Death record does not agree with birthdate record.  She was 78y8m5d at time of death.

The Athens Times, Friday, March 22, 1912.  Local News.  Mrs. Lucy Carpenter, wife of C. L. Carpenter, died at her home in Prairieville, Barry , March 14th, and was buried there Sunday.  Mrs. Carpenter was about 75 years old and formerly lived in this Twp., where she had many friends.

Cem. records and visit to the Hillside Cem., Plainwell, Allegan, MI, Lucinda is buried by her hubsand, Calvin Loomis Carpenter Jr., son, John Calvin Carpenter, and son's wife, Mary Adda Carpenter Ponds. They are in lot 96-B.

30560. John Calvin Carpenter

Delton Public Library, Delton, Barry , MI.  Marriage records from "old"Methodist Church in Delton copied onto 3x5 inch cards.  Carpenter, John Calvin, age 21, married Addie Bugbee, age 22, on March 30, 1882.  Born 1861 in Branch County, MI; residence: Orangeville, Barry County, MI; Pastor:  H. O. Lawrence; occupation: farmer; Witnesses: John A. Burner and Lucy E. Bugbee.

DEATH.  Emmet County Clerk, Petoskey, MI. 1919 deaths, #198.  Died 18 Sep 1919, John Carpenter, male, white, married, 58y11m4d, place: Littlefield, cause: cancer, b. MI, occupation: laborer, father: Calvin Carpenter,
b. NY; mother: Lucinda Thayer, b. OH.

OBITUARY.  The Petoskey Evening News, published daily, Friday, 19 Sep 1919, p. 1.  Death Claims John Carpenter.  Oden Man Dies After Long Illness.  At One Time He Conducted Hotel and Also Operated Boat Livery.  Burial at Prairieville (should be Plainwell; the newspaper is wrong), John Carpenter, Oden, died at his home at the village late Thursday night after being ill several months.  He was about fifty-nine years of age and had resided in Oden twenty-seven years.  Mr. Carpenter at one time operated the Oden Hotel and later had charge of the boat livery.  He was widely known among summer tourists as well as residents of Oden and Northern Michigan.  While funeral arrangements are not yet completed it is believed the service will be held at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon from the home.  Rev. G. A. Weaver will have charge.  The body will be taken to Prairieville (should be Plainwell) for burial.  (Article found on microfilm at the Petoskey Public Library, Oct 1998.)

Cem. Records, Hillside Cem., Gun Plain Twp. Hall, Plainwell, Allegan , MI.  Lot 96-B.  C. L. Carpenter, age 61, d. 1894, lot owned by Lumice Carpenter.  Lucinda A. Carpenter, age 74, d. 1912; John C. Carpenter; Mary Addie Carpenter Ponds, 78, residence Petoskey. Interred 8/4/1937.  See parents' data.

Mary Adda "Addie" Bugbee

1880 U.S. Census, Barry , Orangeville Twp., MI.  245/245 Rush, Christian, WM, age 29, head, farmer; Lorinda, WF, age 29, wife; Ema, WF, age 3, daughter; BUGBEE, Adda, WF, age 21, boarder, b. MI, parents b. NY; Bugbee, Otis, WM, age 65, boarder.

The Athens Times, Thursday, November 18, 1920.  Mrs. Addie Carpenter of Oden is the guest of Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Simmons and other relatives.

OBITUARY.  Northern Michigan Review (published weekly), Petoskey, MI, Thursday, 5 August 1937.  Pioneer Resident of Oden Passes Sunday.  Final rites were held for Mrs. Mary A. Pond, long-time resident of Oden, who passed away Sunday evening following a brief illness.  Mrs. Pond was born April 17, 1858.  She married John C. Carpenter, March 30, 1882.  Mr. Carpenter died in 1919.  In 1924, she was married to Levi Pond who died in 1927.  Surviving are a sister, Mrs. Lorinda Rush, of Elm Hall, Mich., and several nephews and nieces.  Rev. G. A. Weaver had charge of the services which were held at 10:30 o'clock Wednesday at the Peters Funeral Home.  Burial at Prairieville, Mich.

19147. Henry Leighton Carpenter

Sources of information:  Pedigree chart from Mrs. Lina Snyder, Athens, MI.  Old family pictures were obtained from Opal Mitchell of E. Leroy, MI. Signatures in old reunionbook of 1894 and 1895 were viewed.

1860 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July. 2171/1885, Carpenter, Henry,  25, b. NY; Susan, 25, b. NY; Lillie H., female, 4, b. NY.

Michigan Volunteers, 1861-1865, page 29, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI. Carpenter, Henry L., Athens, Enlisted in company A, Twelfth Infantry, March 28, 1865, at Athens, for 1 year, age 30.  Mustered March 28, 1865.  Mustered out at Camden, Ark., Feb 15, 1866.

1870 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 20 June.  182/182 Carpenter, H. L., age 35, b. NY; Susan 35, b. NY; Lillie, 12, b. MI; Elmira [Zingara], 7, b. MI; Abner, 17 (brother), b. NY; Ausby, Mary E., Domestic, b. MI.

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, MI taken 1 Jun (Soundex, vol 4, ED40, Sheet 2, line 26).  17/17 Carpenter, Henry L., age 45, b. NY, parents b. NY, farmer; Susan, age 46, wife, keeping house, b. NY, parents b. NY; Lillie, age 22, daughter, teacher, b. MI, parents b. NY; Zingara, age 17, daughter, servant, b. MI, parents b. NY; Ward C., age 5, son, b. MI, parents b. NY; Wilson, William A., age 24, nephew, b. NY, parents b. NY. (William is Armida Carpenter Wilson's son.  Armida was Henry's sister.)

1900 U.S. Census, Athens Twp., Calhoun , MI taken 16 and 18 Jun (Soundex, Vol 11, ED 28, Sheet 12, Line 11). 305/306 Carpenter, Henry L., head, W M, b. Aug 1834, age 65, b. NY, occupation: farmer; Carpenter, Susan, wife, W F, b. Jan 1834, age 66, b. NY; Carpenter, Ward C., son, W M, b. Aug 1874, age 25, b. MI, md. 6 years; Carpenter, Margarite, daughter-in-law, W F, b. Oct. 1873, age 26, b. MI, 0 children.

Henry attended the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family Reunions from 1893 until his death in 1904.  They were the first couple to sign in for the first several years.  Henry Leighton was 70 years old at the time of his death.

Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Henry married Susan Palmer.  They had 3 children, Lillie Woodruff, Zingara Tiffany and Ward."

Portrait and Biographical Album of Calhoun County, Michigan, published in Chicago, by Chapman Brothers, 1891, p. 415, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI. "Henry L. Carpenter. It is with pleasure that we present the lithographic portraits of Mr. Carpenter and his good wife to the readers of this volume, and with equal pleasure we trace his history through the principal events of his past life.  At present a resident of Athens Twp., he is enjoying the comforts of life, and that which is better than silver or gold--the esteem and confidence of his fellow men, who realize the worth of his character, the extent of his mental attainments and the good he has accomplished.  A prominent farmer and stock raiser, he is conducting his business with keen sagacity and good judgment and is numbered among the substantial citizens of the community."

The Athens Times, Friday, August 26, 1904. H. L. Carpenter had been out on the streets almost daily since he partially recovered from his last illness from Bright's disease, a few weeks ago, and now a second sudden attack took him this week, and he is unconscious.  It is not believed he can survive many hours.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, death records, book 3, page 169, #500, 25 Aug 1904, Carpenter, Henry L., place: Athens Village, male, 70y0m18d white, married, chronic intestinal nephritis, b. NY, farmer, father Calvin Carpenter, mother Eleanor Pierce.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Friday, September 2, 1904.  Henry L. Carpenter Passes Away. Henry L. Carpenter, whose illness a number of times has been mentioned in this paper, died Saturday at 5:30 a.m. and funeral service was from the Congregational Church at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, interment being made in the Burr Oak Street Cem..  He leaves a wife and three children, viz:  Mrs. Allie Tiffany, Mrs. F. G. Woodruff and C. W. Carpenter, all of whom reside here and were in attendance of the funeral.  He was aged 70 years Aug. 6.  He was a soldier in the War of the Rebellion, prominent in his community and was buried under auspices of the Masonic Fraternity.  It was expected an obituary would be handed in this week by the friends, but none having been received we give what we can before going to press.  Next week further particulars and fraternal resolutions will be given.

OBITUARY. The Athens Times, Friday, September 9, 1904.  Henry L. Carpenter was born in Bristol, Ontario , N.Y., Aug. 6, 1834.  He was one of a family of 14 children, 8 of whom are still living.  In 1853 he came to Michigan with his parents, settling in Branch County.  Aug. 31, 1856, he was united in marriage to Miss Susan Palmer.  This union was blessed with four children, one dying in infancy and three with their mother being spared to tenderly and faithfully minister to him in his long and tedious illness.  (We do not know where the child who died fits, but there were quite a few years between Zingara and Carl Ward, so we placed the infant there.) He was a patient sufferer, always looking on the bright side of life.  With him every cloud had its silver lining.  He was ever ready to help the needy in whatever way he could, as many can testify.  In 1865 he enlisted in the war of the rebellion, serving until the close of the war.  He is survived by his wife, three children, six grandchildren, six brothers, two sisters and a host of friends to mourn his loss.  He was a charter member of Frank Mason Post, No. 242, Department of Michigan G.A.R., and was a faithful member as long as his health would permit. He died at his home in Athens Village Saturday, Aug. 25, at 3:30 a.m., and the funeral service was from the Congregational Church Sunday at 2:30 p.m. under charge of the Masonic Fraternity.  Internment was made in the Burr Oak St. Cem..  CARD OF THANKS.  We wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to the many friends and neighbors who so kindly assisted us in any way in the late sickness and death of our husband and father.  Mrs. H. L. Carpenter; Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Woodruff; Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Tiffany; Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Carpenter.

Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Died.  Henry L. Carpenter was born in Bristol, Ontario ,N.Y., Aug. 6, 1834. . ."  The balance is the same as the obituary printed above.

RESOLUTION.  Headquarters Frank Mason Post, No. 242, Dep't. of Mich. G.A.R., Athens, Sept. 1, 1904.  WHEREAS, It has pleased the Great Commander to call from our "Post" to the eternal camping ground above our beloved comrade, Henry L. Carpenter; therefore, be it RESOLVED, That while we deeply feel the loss of another of our most respected comrades, we will bow in humble submission to the will of the "All Wise," knowing that "He doeth all things well," and be it further Resolved, That we, his comrades as a "post," extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved wife and family of our departed comrade; and be it further Resolved, That we, in respect for the memory of our fallen comrade, to drape our charge for the next sixty days.  By the "Post," B. F. Taylor, Elias Foote, Dan Wilcox, Committee.

Susan Jane Palmer

1910 U.S. Census, Athens Village, Calhoun , MI taken 15 April. /137 Carpenter, Susan, head, age 76, widow, 4 children, 3 living, all b. NY.

DEATH:  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI. Vol. 6, p. 45, #8, Died Nov. 20, 1915, Carpenter, Susan, female, widow, in Athens Twp., 81y9m24d; b. NY; father, Ira Palmer; mother, Lydia Cooley.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Thursday, November 25, 1915.  Death Claims Sisters Within A Week.  Mrs. Susan Carpenter and Mrs. Chas. Molter Pass to Reward. Mrs. Susan Carpenter, aged 81 years, 9 months and 24 days, passed away Saturday afternoon at the home of her son, C. W. Carpenter, west of town.  Mrs. Carpenter was one of the pioneers of Athens Twp., having come here in the early days to make her home in what was then little more than a wilderness, her first home being built of logs in a little clearing on the site of the present home where she passed away and where her family was born and reared.  She was a charter member of the Athens Grange and also belonged to Naomi Chapter No. 59, O.E.S.  Her death brings such sadness to her family and to the community to which her long useful life has been given.  The funeral was held at the Congregational Church Tuesday afternoon, Rev. Gadd officiating, the O.E.S. attending in a body. Interment in the family lot in Burr Oak Cem..  Obituary notice appears on last page.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Thursday, November 25, 1915.  Mrs. Susan Carpenter.  Susan Palmer, daughter of Ira and Lydia Palmer, was born in Batavia, Genessee County, State of New York, Jan 26 1834, where her earlier childhood was spent.  She was the eldest of a family of eight children, two brothers, two sisters and three half-sisters, all except three, John Q. Palmer, Mrs. Belle Henry and Mrs. Alice Molter, having preceded her to the Great Beyond.  She came to Michigan with her parents who located in Sherwood, BranchCounty, where her girlhood days were spent.  She was married to Henry L. Carpenter, August 31, 1856 and departed this life November 20, 1915, aged 81 years, nine months and 25 days, leaving to mourn her loss one son, C. W. Carpenter, and two daughters, Mrs. Zingara Alvord and Mrs. F. G. Woodruff, six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, besides a host of other relatives and friends.  She was a loyal member of Naomi Chapter, O.E.S., the Athens Grange and W.C.T.U.  She was a devoted mother and a faithful friend, always thinking of the comfort and happiness of others before her own.  A precious one from us has gone, A voice we loved is stilled.  A place is vacant in our home, Which never can be filled.  God in his wisdom has recalled The boon his love ha  given, And though the body slumbers here, The soul is safe in heaven.

30563. 3 Carpenter

From the Calvin L. Carpenter Family Reunion journal:  "This union was blessed with four children, one dying in infancy. . ."  We do not know the date of birth or death of this infant.

19148. William Wallace Carpenter

Sources:  FAMILY RECORD of The Carpenter Family, pub. 1947 in IL. This record gave William Wallace with his parents.  The Carpenter family reunion book, Athens, MI said the Calvin Carpenter family, William's parents, came to to Athens, Michigan in1853, and only one of Calvin's children was listed as being born in Michigan and that was the last, #14.  William Wallace was child #4.  His grandson, Mr. Carrol Webster of Greshem, Oregon in 1982 said his father was born in Ashtabula, Ohio.  Carroll Webster is the son of Jessie Ford Carpenter, William Wallace Carpenter's daughter.  Since we have found Calvin and his family, including William Wallace, on the 1850 Ontario , NY census, we are placing his birth in NY, not Ohio.

From the Carpenter-Pierce Family Reunion Journal in possession of Irene Chichester, Athens, Mich. in 1981, "Wallace married Ellen Ford.  3 children were born to this union.  Mary, Jessie and John.  They lived in Minnesota a good many years, later moving to Oregon where they passed away." Journals gave birthplace as Bristol, Ontario, NY.  This is around the lake from Middlesex, Yates County (formerly Ontario ) NY.

1860 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July.   2073/1887.  Carpenter, Wallace, age 24, b. NY, a farmer, is in the home of Joseph Ketchen, 30; (no name given) female,  28; Fred, 8; Wilbur, 6.  All b. NY  This might be where William Wallace was working, or he might have been visiting.

The Athens Times, September 14, 1916.  Mrs. B. F. Brownell is in receipt of a letter from her sister-in-law in Portland, Oregon, with the sad news that her brother, Wallace Carpenter, aged 80 years, had passed away on Sunday, Aug. 27, with paralysis.  He was buried the 30th.

Mr. Carroll Webster, grandson of William Wallace, gave us many pictures of the William Wallace Carpenter family.  Most were taken in Lake, Minnesota, but a few in California and Oregon. Pictures are now (1996) in possession of Donna H. Hellewell, Aptos, CA.

Mary Ellen Ford

The Athens Times, Friday, April 26, 1912.  The Land of Roses.  Mrs. W. W. Carpenter of Portland, Ore., in renewing her subscription to The Times writes: "Your paper is like an old friend, hard to do without, and never was better than now.  It is hard to realize, when reading The Times concerning the past winter and springs, the accounts of extremely cold weather and so much snow and ice that within a few days' travel by rail everything is so different.  We've had a very mild winter, and now grass is high in the door yard, plenty of flowers are in bloom and roses not far distant, as next month will bring them by the score."

30565. Mary Eleanor Carpenter

Mary Eleanor was not married according to information received from a nephew, Carroll Webster, son of Mary's sister, Jessie.

19149. Ellen Maria Carpenter

Sources of information:  Pedigree chart made by Lorna Carter, Athens,  MI. At the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Reunions held from 1893 on, Ellen is listed as age 55 of Pine Creek in 1893, as 58 in 1894, and is not in attendance in 1895 as she died in January of that year.

MARRIAGE.  St. Joseph County Clerk, Centreville, MI. Vol. C, p. 115.  Levi B. Simmons to Eleanor M. Carpenter.  State of Michigan; St. Joseph County; Town of Colon.  I do hereby certify that on the 20th day of April 1856 at the house of John McLean in said Town of Colon, Levi B. Simmons, aged 21 years, and Eleanor M. Carpenter, aged 18, both of the Town of Sherwood, Branch County, State aforesaid, were, with their mutual consent, lawfully joined together in marriage which was solemnized by me in the presence of Henry Carpenter of Sherwood and John McLean of Colon witness.  And I do further certify that the said Levi B. Simmons and Eleanor M. Carpenter are known to me to be the persons described in this certificate, that I ascertained previous to the solemnization of the said Marriage that the said parties were of sufficient age to contract the same, and that after due inquiry by me made, there appeared no lawful impediment to such marriage.  Given under my hand this 21st day of April 1856. Charles L. Miller, Justice of the Peace.  Filed for record May 15th, 1856. H. Lindsley, County Clerk.  (Eleanor was always known as "Ellen" in reunion and family notes.  One witness, Henry Carpenter, was her older brother.)

1860 U.S. Census, Branch, Sherwood Twp., MI taken 23 July. 1421/1421 Edward Simmons, age 59, farmer b. NY; Ana Simmons, wife, age 55; Sarah J., female, age 14; Daniel Griffin, age 26, blacksmith; Sally A. Simmons, age 27, female; William A., age 4, male; Elmer, age 2, male. (These are Levi Simmons' parents.)

1860 U.S. Census, Branch, Sherwood Twp., MI taken 23 July. 1423/1423 Levi B. Simmons, 24, farmer, b. NY; Ellen M., age 21, b. NY; Flora, 3, b. NY; Emery, 1, b. MI.

1870 U.S. Census, Benzie, Inland Twp., MI taken 18 June.  47/48 Simmons, Levi, 34, farmer, b. NY; Ellen, 32, housekeeping, b. NY; Flora, 13, F, b. NY; Emma, 11, F, b. MI (this should be Emery M.); Edward, 69, M, farm laborer, b. NY.  (Edward is Levi's father.)

1880 U. S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Household 277/288, Simmons, Levi B., age 41, b. NY, parents b. NY; Ellen M., wife, 42, b. NY, parents b. NY; Emery, 21, male, b. MI;  Orrie, 7, male, son, b. MI.

From the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Died.  Ellen Maria Simmons at her home in North Athens, Jan. 25, 1895, aged 57 years and 19 days. Ellen Maria Simmons was born in Bristol, Ontario , NY, Jan 6, 1838.  In 1853 she came with her parents to Michigan, where they settled in Sherwood.  She was united in marriage to Levi B. Simmons, Apr. 20, 1856.  There were born to them 3 children, Flora, Emery, and Ora.  She was a faithful wife and mother, a friend and sympathizer to all in need.  The funeral services were held Jan. 27, at the North Athens Baptist Church of which she was a faithful member."

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI. Vol. 2, p240, #344.  Died 11 Jan 1895 at Athens, Ellen Simmons, age 57y4m22d, f, w, married, cause: disease of the brain, b. NY, father: Calvin Carpenter, mother: Eleanor.

Levi Benjamin Simmons

"On October 27, 1867, Levi B. Simmons recorded his homestead claim to the Southwest Quarter (160 acres) of Section 11, Inland Twp., Benzie County, MI, one-half mile from that of Daniel Sherman, his future son-in-law's father." Written in 1974 by Lyle D. Brundage of Big Rapids, MI, great-grandson of Levi Benjamin Simmons.

1873 - On birth record of third child, Ora Levi Simmons, Levi Benjamin Simmons' occupation was that of Postmaster in Inland, MI.

"Besides farming, Levi Simmons ran a half-way house.  Grandma Sherman (Flora R. Simmons) used to tell her grandchildren about the wild country and the excitement when the stagecoach arrived.  Sometime before 1895 Levi Simmons sold his land in Benzie County and moved to Athens, Michigan, in Calhoun County." Written by Lyle D. Brundage of Big Rapids, MI on August 4, 1974.

Levi B. Simmons married second Mary E. (Molly) Jarrett Aplin in Inland, Benzie , MI by Rev. D. O. Walkins on 4 Jun 1896.  Mary was Ora Simmons' (Levi's son's) mother-in-law, the mother of Ora's wife, Nellie Aplin. Information from Simmons Family Bible borrowed from Eloise Stormshak, Battle Creek, Nov 1996.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, book 3, page 282, #722, 17 Oct 1907, Simmons, Levi B., died at Battle Creek City, 71y9m9d, white, male, apoplexy, b. NY, farmer, father Edward Simmons, mother Anna Potter.

OBITUARY.  L. B. Simmons, aged 71 years, and for many years a well known resident of North Athens, died at 2 o'clock yesterday morning at the home of his son, Ora Simmons, 282 Meachem Avenue (Battle Creek, MI). Apoplexy was the cause of death although the deceased had been in ill health for some time.  Burial will take place in North Athens, but the arrangements for the funeral have not yet been completed.

19150. Robert Carpenter

Sources of Information:  Correspondence with Lina Carpenter Snyder, Athens, Calhoun, MI (now deceased, lived to be 104). Portraits and Biographical Album, published by Chapman Brothers, Chicago, 1891, p. 446. . . .Robert, "a resident of Grand Traverse." Correspondence from Helen Fox, Canandaigua, NY.  Pedigree chart made by Lorna Carter shows that Robert and Harriet ("Hattie") had two children, Fred and Ada. Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal: "Robert married Alice Dexter and they had two boys, Will and Calvin.  Will lives in Washington.  Calvin has passed on." Will probably refers to Robert's son, William.  Many family signatures are in the Reunion Books from Athens, MI from 1893 on, but little is written about this particular family.

1860 U. S. Census, Hobart, W. P., 44, b. NY; ____, 44, b. NY, Rebecca, 73, b. CT; Carpenter, Melipa (Melissa) 18, b. NY, housework; Carpenter, Robert, 21, b. NY, laborer.  Melissa and Robert were brother and sister and children of Calvin L. Carpenter.

Michigan Volunteers, 1861-1865, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI. "Carpenter, Robert, Calhoun County. Enlisted in company A, Eleventh Infantry, Aug 21, 1861, at Centreville for 3 years, age 21.  Mustered Aug 24, 1861.  Mustered out at Sturgis, Mich., Sept 30, 1864."

MARRIAGE Records, Calhoun County Clerk, Marshall, MI.  Family History Library, Salt Lake City, UT, Film 1009294, Vol. 5 page 30.  "On 24 Nov 1864, Robert Carpenter, age 25, and Maria Wilder, age 19, both of Athens, Calhoun, were married by me, Isaac C. Abbott, Minister of the Gospel, in the presence of P. H. Brownal (should be Brownell) and Melissa Carpenter. Recorded 14 Mar 1865, by William Howard, Clerk, Calhoun County, State of Mich." There was a similar entry right below Robert's for his sister, Melissa, and Parker Hall Brownal (should be Brownell).

We have a newspaper clipping - Grand Rapids Press Oct 1973 about the journal/diary of Alice W. Dexter of 19 July 1866 and her trip to Benzie County, Michigan.

According to Robert's affidavit for a military pension he states that he and Harriet M. Wilder were divorced in 1874. Robert also states that he and Harriet had one child, Fred R. Carpenter; and he and Alice Dexter had two children.

1880 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens Village, MI (Soundex Vol. 4, ED 40, sheet 27, line 18) taken 16 Jun.   281/298 Carpenter, Robert, age 41, farmer, b. NY, parents b. NY; Alice, wife, age 34, b. NY, father b. VT, mother b. CT; William, son, age 10/12, b. Aug. in MI, parents b. NY.

1900 U.S. Census, Inland Twp., Benzie, MI, (Soundex, Vol. 8, ED 7, Sheet 4, line 11) taken 7 Jun. 50/51 Carpenter, Robert, W M, b. Apr 1839, 61, md 23y, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. NY; Alice W.D., W F, b. May 1846, 54, md. 23y, 3 children, 2 alive, b. NY, father b. VT, mother b. CT; William D., son, b. Aug 1879, 20, b. MI, father and mother b. NY; Calvin L., son, b. Mar 1886, 14, b. MI.  William's occupation is traveling salesman.  The soundex also lists McMichael, William, BO, b. Sep. 1897, age 2, b. MI, in the home.

1910 U.S. Census, Benzonia Village, Benzie, MI, ED2, sheet 16B. 289/292 Robert Carpenter, father, MW, age 70, widower, is in the home of his son, William D.Carpenter.

Document received in February 1998 from the Michigan Archives: Application for Admission to Michigan Soldiers' Home, (Grand Rapids, MI).  State of Michigan, County of Benzie.  On this ninteenth day of September A.D., 1911, personally appeared before me, Stanley D. Burke, Justice of the Peace, in and for the County and State aforesaid, Robert Carpenter, a resident of Bendon, in the State of Michigan, and who, being by me first duly sworn according to law, deposes and says: "That he served as a private in the Union Army during the late Civil, Mexican, Spanish-American War, or war in the Philippines, as follows:  Date of Enlistment: August 24, 1861; Rank: private; company: A; regiment or vessel: 11th regiment, Michigan Infantry; name of Capitain: Capt. Coddington; residence at date of enlistment: Athens, Calhoun , MI; Place of Enlistment: Athens; Date of Disacharge: Sept. 13th, 1864; Place of Discharge: Sturgis; Cause of Discharge: Expiration of term of service; Age: 72; Nativity: American; Occupation: farmer; Married or Single: Single; Read and Write: Yes; Height: 6 ft. 1 1/2 in; Complexion: Dark; Color of Eyes: Blue; Color of Hair: Dark; Religion: None.  And that he is disabled in the manner following: Suffering from piles and gunshot wound in breast, from which he is now suffering, and by reason of which he is unable to support himself by his own efforts and labor; that he has not sufficient property or adequate means of support, which facts must be satisfactorily shown to the Board of Managers of this Home, and has no relatives of sufficient ability to maintain him who are legally liable for his support, under the laws of the State of Michigan, and that he therefore applies for admission to the Michigan Soldiers' Home.  Pension:  That he is now receiving Fifteen Dollars per month pension on Certificate No. 482494 at the Detroit Agency, and that his discharge from the U.S. Service together with his Pension Certificate and Voucher, is herewith transmitted.  He, the said Robert Carpenter, further deposes and says that he will, if admitted to said Home, abide by and obey all and singular the rules and regulations of the said Home; that he will perform all the duties required of him, and obey all the lawful orders of the officers of the said Home: (See rules on back page.) His nearest relative or friend is Will D. Carpenter, son, P.O. Address of said relative or friend: Bendon, Mich."  Signed: Robert Carpenter.  Sworn to before me by the said Robert Carpenter, and by him signed in my presence, the day and year above written, and I hereby certify that the foregoing affidavit was read over and fully explained to said Robert Carpenter before he executed the same. Signature: Stanley D. Burke; Official Character: Justice of the Peace. Certificate of Identification, Etc.:  I hereby certify that I have carefully examined the proofs exhibited by Robert Carpenter and that I have good reason to and do believe that they are true, that the applicant is the indentical person named therein, that he is destitute and dependent upon public charity for support, and is at this time an actual resident of Inland Twp., Benzie County, and State of Michigan.  Signature: T. D. McCuaig; Official Character: Supervisor of Inland Twp.  Surgeon's Certificate.  I certify that Robert Carpenter is disabled from obtaining his living by manual labor, and that he states that his disability was incurred at the time, place and in the manner hereinafter stated:  Date of injury or disease: Dec 3rd, 1861, received injury in service, gunshot wound of breast.  Place of receiving injury or contracting disease also suffers from piles.  Upon careful examination I find him to be sound of mind and his present physical condition to be as follows: Character and degree of disability:  he is not able to perform any kind of manual labor.  Signed:  Wm. J. Shilliday, M.D.  Subscribed and sworn to before me this 30th day of Sep, A.D., 1911, and I hereby certify that Wm. J. Shilliday, M.D., who made and signed the above Certificate, is known to me as a surgeon in actual practice and of good standing in his profession. Signature: Stanley D. Burke, Justice of the Peace.  Locality of Applicant: Post Office: Bendon; Railroad Station: Bendon; On what Road: P.M.  Order for Admission.  The foregoing applicant is hereby approved, and said applicant will be admitted to the Michigan Soldiers' Home.  Signed: Wm. T. McGuinn (?), Commandant, Michigan Soldiers' Home.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Friday, February 7, 1913.  Robert Carpenter, aged 73 years, died at his home in Bendon, Benzie , last Friday and was buried there Sunday.  Mr. Carpenter was at one time a resident of Athens and was the brother of T. J. Carpenter and Mrs. B. F. Brownell.  (Robert's actual place of death was at the Michigan Soldiers' Home, Grand Rapids, Kent , MI.)

Death Records, Benzie and Grand Traverse , unable to find a death record for Robert Carpenter, but we did find one for his wife, Alice W. Dexter Carpenter.  We also found one for their son, Calvin Loomis Carpenter, both in Benzie County, which said Calvin was buried in Mt. Hope Cem., Grand Traverse , MI.  This is on U.S. 31 near west county line just east of the Benzie County line.   We found a marker for, Robert Carpenter and Alice W. D., wife of Robert Carpenter, but we found no stone for Calvin L. Carpenter, his son.  On Robert's stone it gave no dates, only  A. 11 Mich. Inf.  On Alice W. D. it had 1847-1906.

January 1997.  In a conversation with Emma Ahlene Carpenter Doubleday, age 92, of Leonidas, MI, she stated, "Uncle Robert died at the Veterans' Home in Grand Rapids."

Robert died in the Michigan Soldiers' home in Grand Rapids, Kent County, MI on January 31, 1913, according to a letter signed by his son, Calvin L. Carpenter, which was in Robert's Civil War Pension files.

Harriet Maria Wilder

Harriet's mother, Betsey Haviland Wilder married second Calvin Loomis Carpenter, the father of Harriet's first husband, Robert.  Harriet's brother, Marion Wilder, married her first husband's, Robert's, cousin, Sophronia Alwilda Carpenter, the daughter of Robert Carpenter and Plexana Wood Carpenter..

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Wednesday afternoon, April 24, 1929. Former Athens Woman Dies in Santa Barbara.  The following item sent us by Lena E. Sperry of Seattle, Wash., concerns an old-time resident of Athens:  Hattie M. Coppedge, aged 84 years, died April 3, 1929, at 136 West Figueroa street, Santa Barbara, California.  Deceased was the beloved wife of J. A. Coppedge and the mother of Fred R. Carpenter of San Francisco, Albert C. Burge of Kelso, Wash., and Mrs. Edith Ferraro of Paradise Valley, Nevada; sister of Lucien E. Wilder of North Bend, Wash., and  Mrs. Lena E. Sperry of Seattle, Wash.

30571. Fred R. Carpenter

Pedigree chart made by Lorna Carter shows that Robert and Harriet ("Hattie") had two children, Fred and Ada.

The Athens Times, Saturday, 7 Feb. 1900, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Carpenter expect to leave for Chicago the middle of next week with intention of engaging in business.

In April 1929 Fred was of San Francisco, CA according to his mother's, Hattie M. Coppedge's, obituary.

Fred's date of birth is taken from a statement made by his father on his Civil War pension records.

30572. Ada Carpenter

On a pedigree chart made by Lorna Carter it shows that Robert and Harriet had two children, Fred and Ada.  On Ada's father's, Robert Carpenter's, Civil War pension application, Robert stated that he and Harriet had one child.  Perhaps Ada was dead by then.

Alice W. Dexter

MARRIAGE Records, Calhoun County, MI, Vol. 2, p. 41, #4012. Married 19 April 1877, in Athens, Robert Carpenter of Athens, age 37, b. NY, farmer; and Alice W. Dexter of Athens, age 30, b. NY; witnesses: Parker Hall Brownell and Melissa Carpenter Brownell, both of Athens; officiant: J. Wisner.

DEATH.  Benzie County Clerk, Beulah, MI.  Book 1, page 128, record #164. Alice W. D. Carpenter, female, d. 26 Dec 1905 in Inland, 57y6m27d. Cause of death, exhaustion, b. NY; father, Richard R. Dexter; mother, Eliza M. Lawson, both living, and residence is Inland, MI.

30573. 1 Carpenter

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI.  Vol. 1 Births, p. 216, #30.  Stillborn white, female, b. 24 Feb 1878.  Parents: Robert Carpenter and Alice W. Dexter, of Athens, Calhoun , MI.

30575. Calvin Loomis Carpenter

1900, U.S. Census, Benzie , MI.  Calvin, son, age 14, is in the home of his parents, Robert Carpenter and Alice W. Dexter Carpenter.

1910 U.S. Census, Benzonia Village, Benzie , MI taken 2 May. 289/292 Calvin L., brother, WM, age 24, single, b. MI, occupation house painter, is in the home of his brother, William D. Carpenter.

In 1913 Calvin resided at 128 Michigan Street, N.W., Grand Rapids, MI, according to a letter written by him in his father's Civil War Pension files.

Some information said Calvin was a state fire ranger at Honor, MI. Other information stated Calvin was a barber.

DEATH.  Benzie County Clerk, Beulah, MI.  Book 1936 Page ___, Record #15. Calvin Loomis Carpenter, male, died 14 July 1936, age 49y3m1d.  Died in Benzonia Twp.,  Benzie , MI; date of birth, 29 March ___ in Green Lake Twp., Grand Traverse, MI; father:  Robert Carpenter, b. MI; mother:  Alice Dexter, b. NY; single.  16 July 1936.  Buried in Mt. Hope Cem..  Funeral Director:  George A. Burnett of Frankfort.

19151. Melissa Lucretia Carpenter

Sources:  Correspondence in 1982 from Carol Elizabeth Seedorff (Mrs. Leon B. Smith, RR 2, Battle Creek, MI 49017), granddaughter of Melissa, and daughter of child #1, Harriett Marie Brownell.

1860 U. S. Census, Hobart, W. P., 44, b. NY; ____, 44, b. NY, Rebecca, 73, b. CT; Carpenter, Melipa (Melissa) 18, b. NY, housework; Carpenter, Robert, 21, b. NY, laborer.  Melissa and Robert were brother and sister and children of Calvin L. Carpenter.

MARRIAGE.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI.  Marriages, Book 5, page 30. "Parker Hall Brownell, age 30, and Melissa Carpenter, age 22 years, both of Athens, were married Dec 25, A. D. 1864 by me, in the presence of Robert Carpenter and Harriet M. Carpenter, recorded March 14, 1865 by William Howard, Clerk, State of Michigan, Calhoun County." Signed Issac C. Abbott.  Her brother's, Robert Carpenter and Harriet Marie Wilder's, wedding was recorded just above Parker's and Melissa's entry.

Information was also obtained by correspondence from Lina Snyder of Athens, MI, a pedigree chart made by Lorna Carter and correspondence with other relatives.  In 1895 reunion data it said Parker and Melissa were from Pine Creek.

Melissa's birth was also reported in the month of June as well as Dec.  We used the latter.  Name spelled Melicia in the Bible, Meelissa in courtrecords.

1870 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI. 246/246.  Brownell, Parker, age 37, b. NY; Melissa, age 28, b. NY; Hattie, age 5, b. MI.; Jennie, 8/12, b. MI.

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  244/209.  Brownell, Parker H., 46, b. NY, parents b. unknown (they were born in RI, his brother gave it and so did they on an earlier census); Melissa, 37, b. NY, parents b. NY; Hattie M., 14, daughter, b. MI, parents b. NY; Jennie E., age 10, b. MI, parents b. NY; Lou, age 1, daughter, b. MI, parents b. NY.

1893, Sept 28, First Reunion of the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Families in Athens, Calhoun, MI., Melissa attended, age 51, of Pine Creek, MI. Her children, Lulu, age 14; Lloyd, 12; and Grace, 8, also attended. Her daughter, Jennie, age 24, now Mrs. Frank Lynn (his age 36) were also in attendance.  Her daughter, Hattie, age 28, now Mrs. Frank Seedorff (his age34) and daughter, Maggie, 3 months, were also there.

1894, Aug 25, Second Reunion of the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Families, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Melissa, age 52, signed in for herself and her children Lulu, 15; Loid, 13; Grace, 10.  Also signing in is her daughter, H. M. (Harriett Marie) Seedorff, age 28, of Pine Creek, her husband, F. E. Seedorff, 34, and daughter, Maggie, 13 months.  Her daughter, Jennie Lynn, age 25, husband, Frank, 37, of Fulton were also there.

1895, Third Reunion of the family stated above, Melissa Brownell, age 53, of Pine Creek, and children, Lulu, age 16; Loid, age 14; Grace 11, plus her two married daughters were there.  Hattie Seedorf, 29, of E. Leroy, Frank Seedorff, 35; Maggie, 2; Harry A., 6 weeks.  Her daughter, Jennie Lynn, age 26, of Fulton with husband Frank Lynn, age 38.  1896 appears to be missing, but in 1897 they are on the list, but no ages are given, Hattie, Frank, Maggie and Harry Seedorf.   Jennie and Frank Lynn, Lulu, Grace, Lloyd, and Jennie Brownell.  Parker Hall Brownell died in 1885.

1898, Melissa Brownell, Frank and Jennie Lynn; Frank, Hattie, Maggie and Harry Seedorff, Grace, Lulu and Lloyd Brownell were there.  1899, Melissa Brownell, Lulu, Grace and Lloyd Brownell, Hattie Seedorff, Frank, Maggie, Harry and Laurel; and Jennie Lynn and Frank Lynn were in attendance again.  Jennie and Frank may have had no children (at least that lived) as they attend each reunion alone.

1900, the eighth reunion, Melissa Brownell with husband, W. J. Rundel, attended.  Lloyd is married and with wife, Dollie.  Lulu is still unmarried and sister, Grace, died in March of 1900.  Harriett and Frank Seedorff, Maggie, Harold, Laurel, and Elizabeth attended. (It said baby under their name lightly, probably the Elizabeth).  Frank and Jennie Lynn are also there.

1901 (and on) Melissa Rundell attended with Lulu, Loyd and Dollie, but the Seedorff's did not attend.  In 1902 they were all in attendance again. 1903, the 11th reunion was unreadable on the photocopy.  In 1904, all of the children attended again, and Charles was the next child in the Seedorff family.  In 1905, the 13th annual reunion, only Melissa and her husband, W. J. Rundel, and Jennie and Frank Lynn attended. 1904 and 1905 all the children attended with their families.  In 1906, the 16th annual reunion, only Melissa Rundall and husband, Wm. J., and Hattie Seedorff and husband Frank, and Jennie Lynn and her husband, Frank Lynn, attended.  None of the Seedorff children attended that reunion.

1909, only Melissa Rundel, Wm J., Jennie Lynn and Frank Lynn attended. The same in 1910, but in 1911 and 12 all the family but Maggie Seedorff was there.   In 1913 Hattie and Elizabeth Seedorff were absent.  In 1914, they were all  present, but in 1915, the 23rd Annual reunion both Wm. J. Rundel and Frank Lynn have died.  The rest were in attendance.  In 1916 only Melissa Rundel, Laurel Seedorff, and Jennie Lynn were there.

1917, Melissa Rundel is present the next four years through 1920, so is her daughter, Hattie Seedorff.  Hattie's daughter, Maggie (now Spooner) is only on the 1920.  Herbert Spooner is marked dead in 1919, Mirlah Spooner attended with her mother in 1920.  Harry Seedorff attended in 1920. Laurel Burgett attended 1917, 1918, and 1920.  Elizabeth and brother, Charles Seedorff, attended 1917, 1918, 1920.  Jennie Lynn, Lulu and Lloyd Brownell attend all four years (1917-1920).  In 1920 Oscar signed in just under Lloyd.

1921 through 1924, Melissa Rundel attend all four years.  She died in 1925.  She was 83 at at the time of her death.

1900 U.S. Census, Calhoun , Athens Twp., MI taken 13 and 14 Jun.  278/279 Brownell, Melissa, head, b. Sep 1895, age 54, widow; Brownell, Lulu, daughter, b. May 1879,  age 21; Brownell, Lloyd, son, b. Feb. 1881, age 19.

1910 U.S. Census, Calhoun , MI, Leroy Twp., taken 15 April. 1/12 Rundel, William J., head, male, white, age 74, married 2 times, 8 years; Rundel, Melissa L., wife, female, white, age 67, married 2 times, 5 children born, 4 alive.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, Deaths, 1924-1925, page 13, #10. 14 Nov. 1923 in Athens Village, Melissa Lucretia Rundell, female, white, widow, 83y4m10d.  Chronic valvular heart disease, b. NY, housewife.  Father:  Calvin Carpenter, b. NY: Mother: Eleanor Pierce, b. NY.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, November 19, 1925.  Grim Reaper Claims Three During Week.  Mrs. Melissa L. Rundel, Adelbert Vanett and Wm. H. Russell, all Old Residents.  Mrs. Melissa Rundel, an aged and beloved resident of this vicinity for many, many years passed away at the home of her daughter, Miss Lulu Brownell in this village. Melissa Lucretia Carpenter, the daughter of Calvin and Eleanor Carpenter, deceased, was born June 24, 1842, in Bristol, Ontario County, New York.  When 11 years of age, she came with her parents to Michigan, settling in Sherwood.  She was married Dec. 11, 1864, to Parker H. Brownell and went to live on the farm in a log house that had been his home before the death of his father and mother.  A new frame house was later constructed and here the family of children, Hattie, Jennie, Lulu, Lloyd and Grace came to bless their union. On March 6, 1885, the father was taken away, and in March of 1900 Grace was called Home.  For over 17 years the faithful widowed mother sweetly met the many sacrifices necessary in her struggle of rearing her children. Then on Feb. 26, 1902 she was united in marriage to W. Judson Rundel, and two years later went to live in Pine Creek.  November 14, 1914, Mr. Rundel passed away. Since that time she has made her home with her children.  She was called to her reward the morning of Nov. 14, 1925, aged 83 years, 5 months and 10 days. She was a worthy and lovable companion, a dutiful and devoted mother, a loyal friend of all, and a respected and much loved resident of the community.  Her quiet, gracious characterists won friends with all with whom she came in contact, ever willing to lend a helping hand to the sick and distressed until later years of failing strength deprived her of that privilege.  She was a a faithful and untiring member of the North Athens Baptist Church. None have gone to their rest with more hope of blissful eternity with their Savior than did this dear Christian woman whose Christian life was a practical one and evidenced in her every day life.  She leaves to mourn her loss 4 children, Hattie Seedorff, Jennie Gould, Lulu and Lloyd Brownell; 4 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and a great number of other relatives and a host of friends.  'Tis ours to miss thee, all our years, And tender memories of thee keep.  But thine in the Lord to rest, for so He giveth his beloved sleep.

Parker Hall Brownell

1860 U. S.Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July.  Household 2118/1801, Brownell, Harriett (maiden name Pierce), female, b. RI; Horace 34, b. NY; George 18, (should be 17); Parker 27, Benj. 22; Henry 18 (should be 19); Josephone Tebow, 23, female, housework.  All b. NY but mother.  This was when Parker was still in his mother's home.

Parker's brother, George H. Brownell, died 18 July 1917, age 75y7m24d.  Father:  Harvey Brownell of NY and mother:  Harriet Pierce.

Another brother, Bergerman (Benjamin) F. Brownell, died 7 Mar 1919, age 81y4m18days, b. NY, father Henry Brownell b. RI, and mother Hariet Pierce, b. RI.

October 1996 visit to Stimson Cem., north of Athens, Calhoun , MI, Parker H. Brownell and Melissa L. Brownell are buried there.

30577. Jennie E. Brownell

1870 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Jennie was 8/12 and in the home of her parents, Parker Brownell and Melissa.

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Jennie E. is age 10 and in the home of her parents, Parker H. Brownell and Melissa.

MARRIAGE.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, Marriages, vol. 3, p. 48, #6462. 21 Oct 1886, married at Athens, Frank C. Lyman (as spelled on marriage record), age 31, b. Portage County, OH, residing in Kalamazoo ; occupation: farmer; and Jennie E. Brownell, b. Athens, age 17, residing in Athens; no parents listed; officiant: L. G. Brundage, Minister; witnesses:  Mrs. M. L. Brownell and Miss H. M. Brownell, both of Athens.

1895 Reunion of Calvin L. Carpenter Family, Athens, Calhoun, MI. Jennie was age 26. See mother's notes about reunions attended.

1894 MI Census, Kalamazoo, Wakeshma, MI taken 5 Jun.  170/180, Lynn, Frank, age 37, b. OH, parents, b. NY, farmer; Jennie, age 25, wife, b. MI, parents b. NY; housewife.

1900 U.S. Census, Kalamazoo, Wakeshma, MI taken 4 Jun.  92/92 Lynn, Frank, b. Mar. 1855, age 45, married 14 years, b. OH, parents b. NY; Jennie, b. Oct 1869, age 30, 0 children, b. MI, parents b. NY.

1910 U.S. Census, Kalamazoo , Wakeshma Twp., MI, ED 166, taken 21 April. 110/110 Lynn, Frank, head, MW, 55, married 1 time, 24 years, b. OH, farmer; Jennie, wife, FW, 40, md. once, 24 years, b. MI, father and mother b. NY, nothing mentioned about children; George, brother, 58, single; Charles, brother, 64, married once, 35 y; Ameilia, sister-in-law, 51, 7 children, 5  alive; Clate, nephew, 25, single; Delos, nephew, 23, married once, 3y; Florence, niece, 18, single.

1920 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens, MI taken 15 and 16 January, ED 35, sheet 11B. 151/158 Lynn, Jennie E., head, age 50, b. MI, parents b. NY; Rundel, Melissa L., mother, age 77, b. NY, parents b. NY.

The Athens Times, June 10, 1920.  Mrs. Jennie Lynn is clerking at Emmell's bakery and grocery.

The Athens Times, Thursday, May 11, 1922.  E. P. Simmons, Mr. and Mrs. Mahlon Gould and Mrs. Agnes Carpenter attended the funeral of their cousin, Robert Carpenter, near Union City Friday afternoon.  [This Robert Carpenter was married to Sarada Place and was the son of Calvin Loomis Carpenter's brother, Robert Carpenter and Plexana Wood.]

North Fulton Cem. might also be known as Crotser Cem..

Francis C. Lynn

1870 U.S. Census, Kalamazoo, Wakeshma, MI, taken 1 Jun.  4/4 Frank C., age 24, is in the home of his mother, Maria Lynn, age 64.

1884 MI Census, Kalamazoo, Wakeshma, taken 1 Jun, 52/53 Lynn, Charles, age 32, head; Amelia, age 31, wife; William, age 10?, son; Clay, b. Feb., son; Marian, age 66, mother; George, age 30, brother; Frank, age 26, brother.

1895 Reunion of Calvin L. Carpenter Family, Athens, Calhoun, MI, Frank was 38 years old.

The Athens Times.  Thursday, February 18, 1915.  Triple Tragedy in Wakeshma Friday; Sam Crotser Killed Lifelong Friends.  George and Frank Lynn Killed While Working in Woods.  Crotser Then Set Fire to Home and Committed Suicide. Only Motive Was Imaginary Grievance - Had Been Dependent on Lynn Boys for Years.  One of the most appalling tragedies that ever occurred in southern Michigan was enacted on the Lynn farm in Wakeshma Twp., 5 1/2 miles northwest of Athens, last Friday, when Samuel Crotser, who for years has occupied a small shack on the Lynn place, shot and killed Frank and George Lynn, brothers, while they were working in the woods on the back part of the farm.  After completing his terrible work which was done with a shotgun, Crotser returned to his house, locked the doors, set it on fire and with the gun blew the top of his own head off, the remains, with part of the arms, legs and head burned off, being removed from the ruins some time later in the day. Just what time the double murder and suicide happened is not known, but it is believed to have been done shortly before noon.  Neighbors heard the shots but knew nothing of their signifance.  It was two or three hours later when it was discovered that Crotser's house was burning.  Members of the family started out to investigate and as they arrived on the scene they saw the body of the man in the burning building.  Unable to remove it, Clay Lynn, a nephew of the two murdered men, started out to find his uncles to tell them of thetragedy, and as he came over a rise of ground and down to where the men had been working he made the grewsome discovery of the bodies of his two uncles, the one, Frank, lying in a ditch where he had fallen when a charge of shot entered his left ear and bored its way to his brain, doubtless killing him instantly, and the other, George, unconscious with a charge of shot in his head, just above the left eye.  He was still breathing but died in a few moments.  Just how it all happened will never be known for not a witness lives to tell the story, only the ghastly silent evidence remained.  There was no sign of a struggle and the supposition is that the approach of Crotser was not known to his victims, until he opened fire on the unarmed and defenceless men.  As a fitting climax to it all he then returned to his home a half mile away, deliberately made his own funeral pyre and destroyed his own life in the same manner as he had taken the lives of the best friends he ever had.  The only reason that can be assigned for Crotser's act was that a few days before he had asked a loan of $5 from the brothers, who neither granted or refused the request, but Crotser is said to have walked away muttering, "I have only a half a sack of flour left.  If I can't get some money, I'll have to do the next best thing."  "The next best thing," is now interpreted as the tragedy.  Crotser was known as a rather good-natured, but shiftless and irresponsible sort of a character, given somewhat to gossip, but never thought to be vicious.  For upwards of 30 years he had made his home off and on in the old house on the Lynn farm, coming and going at will.  The Lynn boys had always befriended him, no rent being charged for the space his house occupied or for the little plot of ground he was allowed to use for a garden.  Suddenly, in his anger over a trifling thing, he apparently turned against his benfactors and with the cunning that invariably accompanies a distorted mind he stole upon them and without warning took their lives.  Rumors to the effect that the Lynn boys had determined to send Crotser to the poor house was emphatically denied by the surviving brother who said that no such thought had entered their minds.  For years he had been practically dependent upon the Lynns who had known him from boyhood back in Ohio, and he had always been made welcome.  When he was not loaned the $5 he was told that he could have some flour, and although it was not intended to offend him, it is evident that he took it as a personal affront.  The infirmities of age, for he was 67, had advanced rapidly of late, it is said, and he doubtless brooded over the affair in his childish mind, until he decided to take vengeance.  The sheriff and coroner of Kalamazoo county visited the place and decided that Crotser had been responsible for all of the death dealing.  The verdict was signed by James Mead, Preston Kolb, Frank Russell, Benjamin Sherman, Chas. Bailey and M. Goeques, jurors.  There were no relatives to claim the remains of the murderer, and he was buried in the North Cem. Sunday morning, at public expense.  The Lynn boys - Charles, Frank and George - all lived in one house, the former with his family occupying the upstairs rooms while Frank and his wife lived below. George, who was a bachelor, boarded with them.  They have always been held in high esteem and the untimely, tragic death of the two brothers is a great blow to the families,  and the community in which the men have so long resided.  A double funeral was held at the home Tuesday forenoon, interment being made in South Cem..

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Thursday, February 18, 1915.  Francis Lynn was born in Brimfield, Portage , Ohio, March 16, 1855, and died in Wakeshma Twp., Kalamazoo County, Mich., Feb. 12, 1915, aged 58 yrs., 10 mos., 26days.  He moved with his parents to Michigan in the fall of 1864, settling on a farm in Wakeshma Twp., where he and his brothers lived as did other pioneer boys, realizing the hardships of those early days.  On Oct. 20, 1886, he was married to Jennie Brownell of Athens, and their happy married life has all been spent on the farm where he died.  He was of a cheerful disposition and bore the love and respect of all who knew him.  Being a great lover of nature, he and his wife and a few chosen friends, often spent a few weeks at some pleasant lake, and these were the most enjoyable days of his life.  He was especially fond of his pets and they in turn loved their kind master, as was shown by the faithfulness of his dog who would not leave him when the sad end came.  He leaves to mourn his death a loving wife, two brothers, Almerian of Ravenna, O., and Charles of Wakeshma, and a host of other relatives and friends, who will miss his smiling countenance and help.

18 Sept 1996 visit to Cem. north of Fulton, MI, on V Avenue, 1/4 mile east of 42nd Avenue.

EMAIL:
From: D and R Frederick mailto:my63squire@hotmail.com>
Sent: Friday, March 20, 2015 4:05 PM
To: jrcrin001@cox.net mailto:jrcrin001@cox.net>
Subject: Lynn Family
Hi. I just found your website () where you mention Frank and George Lynn. They were my mom's great (great?) uncles.
The Clay Lynn mentioned in the article lived in our house from the time he needed help physically until his death - a period of two or three years, I think. I have a number of vivid memories of Uncle Clay even though I was pretty young. He always wore bib overalls. He shaved with a straight razor. He didn't have any teeth by then. He had a habit of rubbing his hands, one inside the other repeatedly. His mannerisms were copied by my little sister and I as they were so prevalent. I am sure she could break into a rendition of uncle Clay even to this day. He was a nice old man. I wished I'd have asked him more about his youth, but kids are dumb like that. I remember one time going to see the Lynn house one rainy Saturday in the 1970's with my folks. I don't remember if Uncle Clay or Maxine was with us or not. It was in the middle of "nowhere" from what I remember.
My mom has a 1/12 scale model of the Lynn house that my brother-in-law built from measuring the current configuration and adding the porches based on old photos.
Maxine Lynn was the starting point for my genealogy "illness." Although only moderately interested as a youth, it is my current addiction. Maxine gave each of the Lynn family legs a copy of the Lynn family history to date back to 1812. She had done all of the hard work the hard way, as there were no personal computers or internet in the 1970's and before. I have the packet she gave our family back then.
Anyway, it looks like we are related in some way.
I found a Lynn cousin two years ago when I started, named Bob Lynn. He has the Maxine booklet from his family like mine. He lives in California and has done the full blown DNA (he is a freak for genealogy too). I have yet to do mine, but soon I hope.
Anyway, I would be glad to share info with you. I don't think I have pictures of Frank or George, but I do have some of the other brothers I think. I am sure Bob does.
I would love to correspond if you are interested.
Deane "Dean" Frederick II
Hazel, KY
270-227-6510 Call/Text

Mahlon D. Gould

1900 U.S. Census, Calhoun , Athens Twp., Michigan, taken 15 and 16 Jun 1900.  283/284  Gould, Mahlon, head, b. Apr 1855, age 45, md. 18y; Gould, Ella, wife, b. Nov. 1846, age 53, 0 children, 0 children alive.

1910 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens Village, MI taken 15 April.  127/ Gould, Mahlon, head, age 55, married 28 years, b. MI, father b. NY, mother b. MI; Ella, wife, age 62 (should be 42), married 28 years, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. NY.

WEDDING.  The Athens Times, Thursday, March 10, 1921.  Mahlon Gould and Mrs. Lynn Married.  Mrs. Jennie Lynn and Mahlon D. Gould, two of our esteemed townspeople, were united in marriage at the bride's home Saturday afternoon at three o'clock, Rev. Dawe, pastor of the Congregational Church officiating. They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Simmons.  Mr. and Mrs. Gould will reside in the latter's home and their many friends join in wishing them much happiness.

MARRIAGE.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, Vol. 7, p. 282, #134, married 5 March 1921 at Athens, MI, Jennie Lynn, age 52, b. Athens, residing in Athens, previously married once, father: Parker Brownell; mother: Melissa Carpenter; and Mahlon D. Gould, age 65, b. Newton Twp., residing in Athens; father: David Gould; mother: Eliza Weeks, witnesses:  E. P. Simmons and Mrs. E. P. Simmons, officiant:  Albert Dawe, Congregational Minister.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Thursday, May 8, 1919.  Good Woman Gone.  Mrs. Mahlon D. Gould, aged 74 years, for many years a resident of this village, passed away Tuesday afternoon, following a long illness, which she at all times bore with true Christian fortitude.  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Dawe at the Congregational Church this forenoon and the remains were taken to Marshall for burial beside those of other relatives, in fulfillment of her own request.  [This must be Mahlon Gould's first wife.]

The Athens Times, Thursday, November 20, 1920.  Mahlon Gould Hurt When Load of Hay Tips Over.  Mahlon Gould was badly injured Tuesday afternoon when a load of hay which he and C. W. Carpenter were hauling from the F. G. Woodruff farm tipped over near the Harvey school house.  His right arm was broken above the wrist and his hip and body were badly bruised.  He was brought to Dr. Funk's office where his injuries were cared for and he was then taken to Mr.Carpenter's home.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI Vo. 29, p 72, died 2 Dec. 1947 at Calhoun County Infirmary, Marengo Twp., Calhoun , Mahlon Gould, age 92y6m29d, b. 3 Apr 1855 at Newton Twp.; occupation: retired; widower; residence: Athens, MI; father: David Gould b. NY; mother: Ina Weeks, b. NY; buried: Oaklawn Cem., Marshall, MI; information:  Infirmary records.

30578. Lulu May Brownell

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Lulu is listed as Lou, age 1, and in the home of her parents, Parker H. Brownell and Melissa.

See mother's notes about reunions attended.

1910 U.S. Census, Calhoun , Athens Twp., MI. Lulu Brownell, cousin, age 30, b. MI, parents b. NY, dress making, is in the home of Carl Ward Carpenter.

1920 U.S. Census, Calhoun , MI, ED 35, Sheet 4, Line 11. Carpenter, Carl Ward, age 46, b. Mich; Margaret, wife, age 46, b. Mich; H. Neil, son 19, b. Mich; Wayne E., 16, son, b. Mich; Brownell, Lula, C (cousin), 41, b. Mich.  (Lulu Brownell, was born 1879, the daughter of Parker Hall Brownell and Melissa Carpenter.  She would be Carl Ward Carpenter's cousin as his father, Henry Leighton Carpenter, was a brother to Melissa Carpenter, Lulu's mother.)  Lulu married a Charles J. Miller in 1929. (The above was copied from C. Ward Carpenter's notes.)

MARRIAGE.  Calhoun County Marriages, Vol. 9, page 10, #141.  Lulu M. Brownell, age 49, residing at Athens, Calhoun, MI, born in Athens, occupation: dressmaker, daughter of Parker Brownell and Melissa Carpenter; and Charles J. Miller, age 58, residing in Athens, born in Tekonsha Twp., Calhoun , MI, son of Charles H. Miller and Sarah A. Davis, occupation: farmer; married 20 April 1929 at Battle Creek by Rev. J. E. Cook, Congregational Minister. Witnesses:  Lloyd P. Brownell and Bessie M. Brownell, both of Battle Creek.

WEDDING.  The Athens Times, Wed. 24 Apr 1929.  Athens Couple Married At Battle Creek. A quiet but pretty wedding was performed Saturday evening by the Rev. J. E. Cook of the Athens Congregational Church when Miss Lulu M. Brownell of Athens became the bride of Charles J. Miller, also of Athens, at the home of the bride's brother, Lloyd Brownell, 46 Fairview, Battle Creek.  The couple was attended by Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Brownell and the ring ceremony used in the presence of the immediate family and friends.  After the ceremony a dainty lunch was served by Mrs. Brownell and Mrs. Arnold, the bride's table being centered with yellow tulips and yellow tapers.  They will make their home on the groom's farm east of Athens.  Mr. and Mrs. Miller are both well known in Athens, being prominent in the work of the church and the Grange. Their hosts of friends extend congratulatons.

The Athens Times, Wed. 8 May 1929.  Surprise Party for Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Miller.  Monday evening, May 6th, the Community Art Club gathered at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl G. Davis and soon journeyed to the home of Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Miller, where they gave them a complete surprise.  That quiet evening of reading and mending was soon turned into a house full of merrymakers, and the guests found themselves surprised when Mrs. Miller announced that it was her birthday party too, as that part had not been known to them before. The evening was spent in visiting and the ladies had provided a delightful supper which was served in the spacious dining room at ten o'clock.  In behalf of the members of the Club, Mrs. Edmen Miller presented Mr. and Mrs. Miller with a very pretty rayon bedspread as a token of their love and esteem. The friends departed at a late hour wishing the happy couple a long life of health, prosperity and happiness.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Wednesday, April 18, 1956.  Mrs. Lulu May Miller, 77, widow of C. J. Miller and a lifelong resident of Athens Twp., died at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the Community Health Center in Coldwater.  She suffered a hip fracture about four months ago, and had been hospitalized most of the time since. Mrs. Miller was born May 6, 1879, in the township near here, daughter of Parker H. and Melissa L. (Carpenter) Brownell.  Most of her adult life Mrs. Miller did sewing and dressmaking.  She married Mr. Miller on April 20, 1929, in Athens.  He died April 15, 1939.  She belonged to the Congregational Church here, the Summer-R-Set Club, and Ladies Guild of the church, and also the Community Art Club.  She is survived by a stepson, Leo Miller of Ferndale and two step-grandchildren, Jack and Margaret; and a brother, Lloyd Brownell of Battle Creek.  Funeral services were held at the Spencer Funeral Home Monday afternoon, with Rev. Wm. Potts of the Congregational Church in charge. Interment beside her husband in the Riverside Cem. in Union City.

Charles J. Miller

OBITUARY.   The Athens Times, Thursday, April 19, 1939.  Well Known Farmer and Granger Dead. C. J. Miller Spent Most Of His Life in Calhoun County - Deacon In Church. Charles J. Miller, 68, died at the home of his sister, Miss Mary L. Miller, 174 Calhoun Street in Battle Creek, Saturday morning at 5 o'clock, following a long illness.  Mr. and Mrs. Miller had been with Miss Miller since coming home from a visit in Detroit recently, and a week before his death were in Athens to attend a church bazaar and supper.  He was taken ill the same night with an attack of a heart ailment, with which he had been afflicted for some time. He was born in Tekonsha Twp. Aug. 24, 1870, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Miller.  Most of his life had been spent in Calhoun County.  He was married to Ruth T. Thayer on Mar. 31, 1893, her death occurring April 13, 1924, while they resided on the farm east of this place.  Mr. Miller became well known for his activities in the Grange and agriculture, and was rated as one of the leading exponents of scientific farming methods, which he practiced on various farms that he had owned.  His last farm was the former Frank Harrison place, east of Athens.  He was an active member and several times master of Athens Grange and was instrumental in the organization of Community Grange while he was on a farm at Abscota.  He had visited many parts of the state in farmers' institute work and for several years managed co-operative elevators at Marcellus and Union City.  He was a member and deacon of the Athens Congregational Church and was a man of high ideals and stood always for the better things of life.  He will be greatly missed by his family and a wide circle of friends.  He is survived by his widow, the former Lula Brownell, to whom he was married ten years ago; a son, Leo, by his first marriage, of Detroit; two brothers, James D., county poor commissioner, of Marshall, and Pearl, of Augusta, Ohio; one sister, Mary, of Battle Creek, and two grandchildren.  He was a brother of the late Frank D. Miller, who died while serving this county as school commissioner more than 20 years ago.  Funeral services were held at the Spencer Funeral Home Monday afternoon, with the Rev. J. E. Cook, former pastor of the Congregational Church, in charge.  Dr. E. VanCamp gave a vocal number.  Interment was made in Riverside Cem. at Union City.

OBITUARY from a Battle Creek newspaper in the Coller Collection, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI, states:  Charles Miller, Past Master of Grange, Is Dead.  Charles J. Miller, 68, a past master of Calhoun County Pomona Grange and lifelong resident of Calhoun County, died at 5 a.m. today at the home of his sister, Miss Mary Miller, 174 Calhoun Street, where he had resided for the last year.  Mr. Miller had been in poor health for two and one-half years.  For 15 years prior to his illness Mr. Miller operated a farm near Athens and had served three years as master of the Athens Grange. He had also engaged in farming for many years in Tekonsha Twp. and Abscota.  Mr. Miller was born Aug. 24, 1872, in Tekonsha Twp., the son of Charles H. and Sarah Ann (Davis) Miller.  Besides the sister at whose home he died he leaves his widow, Mrs. Lulu Miller; a son, Leo Miller, of Detroit; and two brothers, James D. Miller, of Marshall, and Pearl Miller, of Augusta, Ohio. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Spencer Funeral Home in Athens and burial will be in Riverside Cem., Union City.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, vol. 21, page 225.  Died 15 April 1939 Charles J. Miller, age 68y7m1d, at 174 Calhoun St., Battle Creek, MI, father: Charles H. Miller; mother: Sarah Ann Davis; occupation: retired farmer; informant:  Mrs. Lulu Miller, surviving wife; b. Tekonsha Twp., Branch , MI; buried at Riverside Cem., Union City, MI.

If we calculate Charles Miller's date of death by his age at the time of death, it comes up with a birth date of 14 Sep 1870.

30580. Grace N. Brownell

See mother's notes about reunions attended from 1893 to 1900.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI. Vol. 3, #235, Grace was 16y10m at death.

"In loving Remembrance of Grace N. Brownell --Tis hard to break the tender cord, When love has bound the heart.  Tis hard, so hard, to speak the words, 'We must forever part'.  Dearest loved one we must lay thee.  In the peaceful grave -- embrace  But thy memory will be cherished--Till we see thy Heavenly face."  The above is a cardboard (black), If you could see it, you would know it is old.)  Sent in a letter from Mrs. Leon B. Smith (Elizabeth Seedorff Smith) with other information about the family in 1982.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Saturday, 17 March 1900.  Miss Grace Brownell, youngest daughter of Mrs. Melissa Brownell, of north Athens, who had been an invalid from consumption the past year, passed peacefully away Saturday morning.  Funeral was from the residence Monday at 1 p.m. and interment was made in the Stimpson Cem. beside the remains of her father, Park Brownell. Rev. Lewis, of the North Athens Baptist Church, of which deceased was a member and earnest worker, officiated.  She leaves to mourn her loss a mother; three sisters, Mrs. Frank Seedorff of East Leroy; Mrs. Frank Lynn of Wakeshma, and Lulu, and one brother, Lloyd, who reside at home, and many acquaintances.

Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Died.  Mar. 10, 1900, at the home of her mother, Melissa Brownell (nee Carpenter), Grace N. Brownell, aged 16 years, 1 mo., 10 days."

William Judson Rundel

MARRIAGE.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI.  Book 5, p. 73, #70. Married 26 Feb 1902 at Pine Creek, MI, William J. Rundel, age 66, farmer, father:  S. J. Rundel, mother: Fanny Steadwell; and Melissa Carpenter Brownell, age 59, father: Calvin Carpenter, mother: -- Pierce.  Officiant: John H. Callender, MG.  Witnesses: Adelbert VanEtt and Mary VanEtt, both of  Wakeshma.

1910 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Leroy Twp., MI, taken 16 Apr. ED64, sheet 1A.  11/12 Rundel, William J., head, MW, age 74, married twice, 8y; Melissa L., wife, FW, age 67, married twice, 8y, 5 children, 4 alive.

19152. Phebe Jane "Jennie" Carpenter

Sources:  Chart made by Lorna Carter, Athens, MI, sent to Donna Hellewell, Aptos, CA, by Lina Snyder in 1960's.  Jennie's son, Floyd, moved to South Bend, IN. Their child was Elaine.  Elaine married (1) Roy E. Batty, and had a son, Floyd.  She then married (2) Moore.  Floyd Batty of Wichita Falls, TX has the Family Bible of the Calvin Carpenter family and some of the Pierce family.  Copy of pages of the Bible are in possession of Donna H. Hellewell, 231 Bowen Avenue, Aptos, CA 95003 in 1997.  Elaine appears on the Carpenter Reunion journal in 1906, the 15th Annual Reunion in Athens, MI.  She is on many other reunions also.

1870 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 20 June. 177/179  Brownell, Benj., age 20, b. NY; Phoebe J., 24, b. NY.

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Household 12/12 Brownell, Benj. F., age 42, b. NY, parents b. RI; Jenny, age 36, b. NY, parents b. NY; Floyd O., 3/12, son, b. MI, parents b. NY.  Boarder, John L. Wilson, 54, widowed, b. NY., parents b. NY, farm laborer.  (John Wilson is Armida Carpenter's husband; Phebe Jane's ["Jennie"'s] sister's husband.)

The Athens Times, Athens, MI, Saturday, September 1, 1883.  A surprise party assembled at the residence of Mr. B. F. Brownell on Saturday, August 25th, it being the 40th anniversary of Mrs. Jennie Brownell's birthday. About 11 o'clock, Mr. Parker Brownell and Mr. L. B. Simmons and families arrived, both women being sisters of Mrs. B. F. Brownell.  Mrs. B. commenced getting dinner, in the usual way.  A kettle of potatoes and corn was put on the stove to cook. About 11:30 three more loads drove into the yard, and Mrs. B. then surmised that something was in the wind, as that was out of the general way of visiting.  But still they came until 109 arrived.  The leaders of the party thinking Mrs. B. had not made sufficient preparation to feed a company of that number asked her to step aside and give room to those who were more able to fill the wants of such a company.  The men were set to making a table in the shade of the house and the women commenced unpacking baskets.  A table 36 feet long was made and completely loaded down with fruits of home industry, which the women of this neighborhood know so well how to prepare.  Eating and merry making was the order of the day, which all seemed to enjoy.  After which Mrs. B. was presented with a set of silverware and a nice dress.  The presents were highly valued being gifts from near relatives.  At about 6 o'clock the company went home, expressing their satisfaction that it was good to be there.  H.L.C.

1893, Sept 29, Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family Reunion, the list of relatives includes B. F. Brownell, age 55, and P. J. Brownell, age 50, of Athens, Calhoun, MI (the place of the reunion), Floyd Brownell, age 13. 1894, Aug 25, Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family Reunion.  Signature pages included B. F. Brownell, age 56, and P. J. Brownell, age 51, F. O. Brownell, age 14. 1895, Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family Reunion, Athens, Calhoun, MI. B. F. Brownell, age 57, Jennie Brownell, age 51, Floyd Brownell, age 15.

They are listed on the 1897 reunion, but no ages are given.  In 1898 Jennie and Benjamin attended but could not find Floyd.  They were also on the 1899, could not find Floyd.  On the 8th reunion (1900) Benjamin and Jennie attended and Floyd was there with them on the 9th and 10th reunions (1901 and 1902) as well as Addie, Floyd's wife.  Jennie, Benjamin and Floyd and Addie attend the 12th, 13th and 14th reunions (1904, 1905 and 1906).

Floyd was absent from the 15th (1907), Addie and Elaine were there for 15th reunion, and both Floyd and Elaine and Addie were absent from the 16th (1908) although Benjamin and Jennie were in attendance.  Jennie and Benjamin were at the 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th (1909 through 1916) but Floyd was only at the 20th (1912) and Addie was not, although her name and their child Elaine were added to the list of names.   Floyd, Addie and daughter, Elaine, attended the 22nd, 23rd, (1914, 1915) but Addie missed the 24th (1916).  They were not found on the reunion records after 1916.  Benjamin died in 1919.  Phebe J. "Jennie" died in 1921.

1900 U.S. Census, Calhoun , Athens Village, MI, taken 1 and 2 Jun. 31/31 Brownell, Benjamin, head, W M, b. Oct 1837, age 62, md. 34y, b. NY, father b. RI, mother b. RI, occupation carpenter; Brownell, Phoebe, wife, b. Aug 1843, age --, 1 child born, 1 child living, b. MI, parents b. NY; Brownell, Floyd O., son, W M, b. Feb 1880, age 20, md. 0y; b. MI; Brownell, Adaline, daughter-in-law, W F, b. Jul 1880, age 19, b. MI, parents b. NY.

1910 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens Village, MI taken 15 April.  /30 Brownell, Benjamin F., head, age 72, married 43 years, b. NY, father b. RI, mother b. RI; Phebe J. wife, age 66, married 43 years, 1 child, 1 child living, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. NY.

Mrs. B. F. Brownell has returned from South Bend where she has been spending the winter with Mr. and Mrs. F. O. Brownell.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Thursday, January 20, 1921.  Saintly Woman Passes to Reward. The people of Athens and vicinity were deeply grieved Sunday to learn of the death of Mrs. Jennie Brownell, widow of the late Benj. F. Brownell, which occurred at the home of her niece, Mrs. Jennie Lynn, at about eleven o'clock that day, following a stroke of paralysis.  The funeral was held at the Congregational Church, of which she was a beloved member, Rev. Dawe  officiating.  Burial in Burr Oak Cem..

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Thursday, January 20, 1921.  Phoebe Jane Carpenter was born in Bristol, Ontario County, NY, Aug. 25, 1843 and passed away at the home of Mrs. Jennie Lynn, Jan. 16, 1921, aged 77 years, 4 months, and 22 days.  She came to Michigan with her parents in 1852 and first settled in Sherwood Twp., but spent the greater part of her life in Athens Twp..  She wasunited in marriage to Benj. F. Brownell Oct. 12th, 1866.  To this union was born one son, Floyd O. Brownell of South Bend, Indiana.  She also leaves one granddaughter, Elaine Brownell, South Bend, Indiana; one sister, Mrs. Melissa Rundel, and one brother, Thomas J. Carpenter, both of Athens, Mich. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Daughters of Rebekah, Women's Relief Corps and the Congregational Church.

The Athens Times, Thursday, January 20, 1921.  Card of Thanks.  We especially wish to thank the minister for his kind words, the singers for their sweet songs, the ladies of the Dime Society and the New Idea Club and the hosts of other kind friends and neighbors for all their thoughtful deeds and acts of kindness and all those sending such beautiful flowers during this, our time of sad bereavement.  The Family.

The Athens Times, Thursday, January 20, 1921.  Miss Elaine Brownell of South Bend was called here Tuesday to attend the funeral of her grandmother, Mrs. Jennie Brownell.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, page 18, #1. Died 16 Jan 1921 in the Village of Athens, Phoebe Jane Brownell, 78y5m21d, father: Calvin Carpenter, mother: Elnor Pierce, both parents b. NY. There are two sets of death records for 1921.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, book 6, page 397, #1, 16 Jan 1921, Brownell, Phoebe Jane, died at Athens Village, female, 78y5m21d, white, widow, b. NY, housewife, father Calvin Carpenter, mother Elmer Pierce, both b. NY.

Burr Oak Cem., Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Buried on the the same lot with Benjamin and Phebe was M. Brownell ___and G. H. Brownell 1842-1917, Leon R. Brownell 1873-1926.  Close by L. Mae White 1875-1916.

Benjamin Franklin Brownell

Birth for Benjamin is figured from age at death.

1860 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July.  2118/1801, Brownell, Harriett, female, b. RI, Horace 34, b. NY; George 18, (should be 25, he died in 1917 age 75); Parker 27, Benj. 22; Henry 18, Josephone Tebow, 23, female, Housework. All b. NY except mother.

Letter from Mrs. Roy Batty Jr., (Garvene Batty) dated April 11, 1969, ". . .I have the marriage license of B. F. Brownell and P. J. Carpenter who I think was Phoebe Jane Carpenter and my husband's great grandparents.  It is dated Oct. 12, 1866, in Athens, Michigan.  I also have a discharge paper of Ben F. Brownell from the Regiment of Merrill's Horse, 2nd Mt. Cav.  He enrolled on March 5, 1862, and was discharged March 4, 1865.  I'll get copies of these and send them to you also.  . ."

The Athens Times, April 26, 1912.  Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Brownell left Saturday morning for an extended visit with their son in South Bend.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, book 6, page 396, #5, 7 Mar 1919, Brownell, Bengerman F., died at Athens Village, male, 81y4m18d, white, male, b. NY, occupation carpenter, father Harvey Brownell, mother Hariet Pierce, both b. RI.

Benjamin F. Brownell had a brother, George H. Brownell. DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, book 6, page 348, #6, 8 Jul 1917, Brownell, George H., died at Athens Twp., male, 75y7m24d, white, married, b. NY, laborer, father Harvey Brownell, mother Harriet Pierce. This death record is also recorded in page 396 of book 6.

Benjamin F. Brownell was also a brother to Parker Hall Brownell who married his wife's [Phebe Jane's] sister, Melissa L. Carpenter.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times.  Thursday, March 13, 1919.  Civil War Veteran and Life-long Athens Resident Dies.  B. F. Brownell, civil war veteran and a pioneer resident of Athens passed away last Friday morning, following a long illness.  The funeral was conducted by Rev. Dawe at the Congregational Church Sunday afternoon with interment in Burr Oak Cem..  The burial service was conducted by Athens Lodge No. 220 F. & A. M., of which Mr. Brownell was a life member.  Benjamin Franklin Brownell, son of Henry and Harriet Brownell, was born in Naples, New York, Oct. 17, 1887 and died Friday, March 7, 1919.  When seven years of age he came with his parents to Michigan and has always resided in Athens.  At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted with  H, 2nd Missouri Cavalry, known as "Merrill Horse."  He served three years, getting his discharge Mar. 4, 1865.  On Oct. 12, 1866 he was united in marriage to Phoebe Jane Carpenter, to whom was born one son, Floyd O. Brownell, of South Bend, IN, who, with the widow and one grandchild, survive him.  He was a member of the Masonic Blue and Chapter Lodges, Easter Star, Odd Fellows, Rebekah and G.A.R.  He is the last one to go of a large family of children.

The Athens Times.  Thursday, March 13, 1919.  Card of Thanks.  We acknowledge with sincere thanks the sympathy and kindness of friends and neighbors in our bereavement.  To the minister, the singers, the various lodges and the donors of flowers we also extend our thanks and appreciation.  Mrs. B. F. Brownell and Family.

19153. Rial Allen Carpenter

Information was given by Rial's daughter, Lina Snyder, when she was 92, 93, again at 100, and 103.  She died at 104.  During the years of correspondence plus four personal visits, a lot of information was learned from this very gracious lady.  She should never be forgotten.

1860 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July. 2067/1881 Rial is 16, b. NY and in the home of his parents, Calvin Carpenter, age 58, b. NY, and Elnor, age 47, b. RI with brothers and sister.

Michigan Volunteers, 1861-1865,  "Carpenter, Rial A.  Enlisted in Company A, Twelfth Infantry, March 28, 1865, at Athens, for 1 year, age 20.  Mustered Mar 28, 1865.  Mustered out at Camden, Ark., Feb 15, 1866."

MARRIAGE.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, Vol. 4, page 248 (also given as Vol. E, page 51) #4371.  Married at Sherwood Twp., 27 Mar 1870, Rial A. Carpenter, 25, b. Bristol, NY, of Athens and Melvina E. Doty, 24, b. Bristol, NY, of Athens.  Witnesses A. A. Nichols of Grafton, IN and Walter C. Panmere (Parmer) of Sherwood Twp..  Married by Henry L. Bisbee, JP.

1870 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 20 June.  176/176  Rial A. Carpenter, 24, b. NY is living with his wife, Malvina (spelled this way), 24, b. NY, with Rial's parents, Calvin Carpenter, age 61, b. NY, and Elenor B., no age given, b. RI.

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  (Soundex Vol. 4, ED 40, Page 3, Line 46) 34/35, Carpenter, Rial A., age 35, b. NY, parents b. NY; Melvina, 34, wife, b. NY, parents b. NY; Lina, female, age 2, daughter, b. MI, parents b. NY.

1900 U.S. Census, Calhoun , Athens Village, MI (Soundex, Vol 11, ED 28, sheet 1, line 94) taken 1 Jun. 29/29 Carpenter, Rial A., head, W M, b. Oct 1844, age 55, married 30y, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. RI; Melvina E., wife, W F, b. Feb 1846, age 54, 1 child, 1 child living, b. NY, parents b. NY;  Greenfield, Luella, niece, W F, b. Oct 1874, age 25, b. MI, father b. IN, mother b. MI, occupation: dressmaker.

1893, Sept. 29, First Reunion of the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Families. R. A. Carpenter, age 48, and Mrs. R. A. Carpenter age, 47.  Miss L. E. Carpenter, age 16.  1894, August 25, Reunion of Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Families, Athens, Calhoun, MI, Rial Carpenter, age 48; M. E. Carpenter, age 48; and L. E. Carpenter, 16, all of Athens.

1895 Reunion of the above families, R. A. Carpenter, 50, Melvina Carpenter, 49, Lina E. Carpenter 17, from Athens. 1897 Reunion, Rial Carpenter, no ages given; Melvina Carpenter, Lina Snyder and John Snyder.  1898 Reunion, Rial Carpenter, Melvina Carpenter, daughter Lina and husband John Snyder were not there.  Yet there were a Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Snyder as visitors, also Issac and Mrs. J. (or I.) Snyder as visitors.

1899, R. A. Carpenter and Mrs. R. A. Carpenter, attended the Carpenter Reunion. Could not find Snyders.  1900 Rial A. Carpenter, Melvina Carpenter, Lina Snyder, John Snyder, Carroll C. Snyder, Mary R. Snyder, Merna Snyder, (Lina and John's children) attended, but in 1901 Rial attended alone.  In 1902 and 1903, Melvina was with him.  Rial attend the 12th Reunion in 1904, but marked dead after that.  Melvina attended in 1904 also, but not after that.  Although Lina, John, Carrol, Mary and Merna's names were on the list, they had not attended.

1906, 1907, 1908 reunions were attended by Melvina and daughter, Lina, her husband, John and children, Carrol (son), Mary, Merna and Niel Allen Snyder. Melvina and daughter's family all attended the 1909, but none attended in 1910.  Only Melvina attended in 1911, but they all attended in 1912 again. 1913, 1914, 1915, 1916 - Melvina missed the 1913, but Lina's entire family was there.  All were there in 1914, none were there in 1915, and all were there in 1916.   1917, 1918, 1919, 1920 - Melvina attended only the 1918.  Lina Snyder and John attended all four.  Carroll attended none, Mary Ruth (now Mrs. Fox) attended 1920, Merna and Neil attend all but 1918.

1921, 1922, 1923, 1924.  Melvina is marked dead.  She died in 1922.  See family of Lina for their attendance after this time.

Biographical Review of Calhoun County, Michigan, published in Chicago by Hobart & Mather, 1904.  Viewed at the Athens Community Library, Athen, Calhoun County, Michigan, Aug. 27, 1993.  RIAL ALLEN CARPENTER  An honored and respected resident of Athens, Calhoun county, Rial Allen Carpenter is enjoying a season of rest after many years of activity as one of the most successful farmers of the community.  He was born in Naples, Ontario county, New York, October 28, 1844, the son of Calvin L. Carpenter, whose sketch appears upon another page of this work.  Mr. Carpenter accompanied his father to Michigan in 1853, celebrating his ninth birthday while en route.  On their arrival in Michigan, the family settled in Sherwood Twp., Branch county, and there he attended the common schools, later becoming a student in Athens township, Calhoun county, whither his father removed.  He remained at home until March 1865, when he enlisted in Company A, Twelfth Michigan Infantry, and was stationed at Camden, Arkansas, until his honorable discharge in 1866.  He then returned to Michigan and began life for himself, working on farms in the neighborhood of his home by the day and month until 1870.  In March of that year he was married, after which he rented a farm for one year, when he purchased forty acres of land located in Athens Twp., northwest of the village of Athens, where he made his home for five years.  He then sold this property and purchased a farm located one mile southeast of the village, in the same Twp..  This property he continued to cultivate and improve for some years, but on account of impaired health, he removed in 1880 to Athens and engaged in the hardware and grocery business, being located upon the site now occupied by Daniel's jewelry store.  After three years he returned to his farm and once more engaged in agricultural pursuits.  In 1896 he again located in the village, having previously purchased a pleasant home, and has since lived in retirement.  His farm, which is now rented, consists of one hundred and eighty acres of highly developed farming land, its value much enhanced by modern and up-to-date equipments, as well as handsome and commodious buildings.  The barn-yard is entirely under cover, while the barn, which is the largest in this part of the country, has the following dimensions: on the north side, 108 feet long by 24 feet high; on the west side, 100 feet long by 20 feet high; and on the south side 64 feet long, the storage capacity being three hundred tons.  Mr. Carpenter devoted the land to general farming and dairying, and was also largely interested in poultry raising, considerable of his time being given to this latter industry, in which he met with gratifying success.
(The article goes on to give his wife's name, Melvina E. Doty, and her parents and  brothers and sisters.  Then it names their one daughter, Lina Estelle, her husband and four children at that time.  It said Lina Carpenter Snyder was "given every advantage in the matter of education, having graduated from Athens high school."  I, Donna H. Hellewell, interviewed Lina Snyder when she was 103, and asked her what she attributed her long life to.  She said, "Well, I didn't have to struggle as much as others, and I am sure that helped a bit."  Then I asked her what advice would she give to the younger generation,  she said, "I'd tell the older ones to live so that the younger ones would have something to shoot at.")
Mr. Carpenter is justly numbered among the promoters of the best interest of the community in which he has made his home for many years.  Always actively interested in the welfare of the public he has faithfully served as street commissioner for the greater part of the time since the village was incorporated, having been elected to the position through the influence of the Republican party, of which he is a stanch adherent.  He was one of the organizers and promoters of the American Cement Post Company, of Athens, and for one year acted as general manager, thus assisting materially in the development of industrial resources.  Fraternally, he is a member of the Masonic lodge of Athens, while both himself and wife belong to the Eastern Star.  They are also members of the Protective Legion, of which he is now serving his second term as president.  He is likewise identified with the Frank Mason post, Grand Army of the Republic, and is a past commander.  Every position which Mr. Carpenter has been called upon to fill has felt the influence of his personality, his strength of purpose and business ability, all duties being capably and faithfully performed.  His own ability and integrity, as well as his connection with a family of prominence, have numbered him among the representative citizens of the community.

The Athens Times, Friday, Sept. 16, 1904.  R. A. Carpenter who has had considerable difficulty from a growth on the back of his left ear and which he had removed several months ago at Ann Arbor, returned to Ann Arbor Tuesday of last week to have another and similar growth removed, which was accomplished and he came home Saturday.  He may not have to return again, but there is nothing certain about it.  The operation of scraping the bone is a very painful one and this time he had to be put under the influence of an anesthetic.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, book 3, page 207, #607, 27 Sep 1905, Carpenter, R. A., died at Athens Village, male, 60y10m28d, white, married, epithelioma of ear and result of operation, b. NY, farmer, father, C. L. Carpenter, mother Elinor Pierce.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Friday, Sept. 29, 1905.  Death of Rial A. Carpenter. Rial A. Carpenter, whose illness has extended over many months' time, passed away Wednesday at 1 p.m.  Funeral will be from the Congregational Church here at 2 p.m. tomorrow, under auspices of the Masonic Fraternity.  The Frank Mason Post, G.A.R., of which deceased was commander, and the W.R.C. will attend in a body. Mr. Carpenter was aged 60 years, 10 months and 27 days.  Concerning his life, his friends will make mention later on.

OBITUARY. The Athens Times, Friday, October 6, 1905.  The funeral service of R. A. Carpenter, whose death Wednesday of last week was mentioned in The Times, was from the Congregational Church here Saturday afternoon, a most beautiful day, and the attendance was fully as much as the church could seat.  Rev. Prestidge delivered the sermon and the services were under the auspices of the Masonic Fraternity.  Frank Mason post and the W. R. C. attended in a body. The following was read by Rev. Prestidge preceding the sermon.  Rial Allen Carpenter was born in Bristol, Ontario , N.Y., Oct. 28, 1844. Died Sept. 27, 1905, aged 60 years, 10 months and 29 days.  At the age of nine years he came with his parents to Michigan, settling in Sherwood, Branch County.  When he was 16 they removed two miles west of Athens, since which time he has lived in this vicinity.  The least year of the War of the Rebellion he, with an older brother, enlisted in the cause and went south, where two brothers had already served three years.  March 1870 he was united in marriage to Miss Melvina Doty, of this place.  To this union was born one child, a girl, Mrs. John Snyder, of this place.  He was a kind husband, a loving and indulgent father and his grandchildren were all in all to him.  Everything that skill and loving hands could do was done to stay the hand of the grim reaper, Death, but he conquered and bore him away.  He was so patient under all of his sufferings, which was very great.  He leaves a widow, a daughter, Mrs. John J. Snyder, 4 grandchildren, five brothers, three sisters and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss.

This obituary was also written in the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal.

CARD OF THANKS.  We wish to express our heart-felt thanks to those friends and neighbors who gave us sympathy and assistance in the hour of our great bereavement, to the pastor and choir and also for the beautiful flowers.  Mrs. R. A. Carpenter, Mr. and Mrs. J. Snyder and Family.

The Athens Times, Friday, October 13, 1905. IN MEMORIAM.  Whereas,,By an allwise Providence, beneath Whose mighty power we bow in humble submission, an event has shrouded our National Protective Legion in deep gloom and brought sorrow to many homes; and  Whereas, By this visitation, death has removed from our circle our beloved brother and past president, Rial A. Carpenter, and we have lost one of our most earnest workers for the order.  Resolved, That we, as members of Athens Lodge N.P.L., No. 151, unite in mourning the loss of our brother.  Resolved, That we, as a lodge, extend our heartfelt sympathy to his stricken wife and family and commend them for solace to a loving heavenly Father.  Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family and to the Light of the Legion and that our charter be draped.  "He did not fail like the flowers which no man noticeth, but like a great branch of some stately tree."  Mrs. E. C. Johnson, Mrs. F. J. Overholt, Miss Ethel Henry, Committee.

A personal visit was made to Burr Oak Cem.. Post 242 GAR flag holder with a flag is by the grave of R. A. Carpenter.

Melvina Elizabeth Doty

1910 U.S. Census, Calhoun County, Athens Village, MI, taken 15 April. /26 Carpenter, Melvina, head, age 64, widow, number of children 1, children living 1, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. NY.

1920 U.S. Census, Calhoun County, Athens Village, MI taken 9 and 13 January, ED35, sheet 9A. 51/54 Carpenter, Melvina, head, age 73, widow, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. RI.

Melvina and Rial were first cousins.  Their mothers, Eleanor D. Pierce and Rocinda Hall Pierce, were sisters.

DEATH.  Calhoun , MI.  Family History Library, Salt Lake City, UT, Film 1,009,293. Vol. 6, page 325. Melvina E. Carpenter, W F Widow, born Ny; father Chester Doty, b. NY;  mother Rocinda pierce, born, RI.  Melvina was 76y3mo21d at time of death on 3 Jun 1922.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, book 6, page 325, #8, 3 Jun 1922, Carpenter, Melvina, died at Athens Village, female, 76y3m21d, white, widow, b. NY, housekeeper, father:  Chester Doty, b. NY, mother: Rocinda Pierce, b. RI.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Athens, Calhoun County, MI, Thursday, June 8, 1922. Honored Woman Passes Away.  Mrs. Melvina Carpenter Succumbs to Disease of Long Standing.  Melvina E. Doty, daughter of Chester and Rhosinda (Pierce) Doty, was born in Bristol, Ontario County, New York, Feb. 12, 1846.  When she was six months old her parents moved to Sherwood Twp., Branch County, Michigan. When she was ten and a half years old her parents came to Athens Township.  She was one of six children, only one of whom is still living.  On March 27, 1870, she was united in marriage to Rial A. Carpenter, whose death occurred Sept. 27, 1905.  To this union was born one daughter, Lina Estelle, who became the wife of John J. Snyder, Oct. 7, 1896.  Mrs. Carpenter has lived in Athens Village for the past twenty-six years.  She was a loyal and faithful member of the W.R.C., also a member of the O.E.S.  She had been a sufferer from her disease for the past twenty years, bearing her affliction cheerfully, never complaining.  She was always happy to receive visits from relatives and friends and was especially happy in the presence of her daughter and family, four grandchildren whom she dearly loved.  In her declining years she has been tenderly watched over and cared for by her daughter, Lina.  Her last sickness, like her life, was peaceful and quiet, sleeping almost continuously for the last five days.  God's finger touched her and she fell into her last sleep, June 2, 1922, aged 76 years, 3 months and 20 days.  She leaves to mourn her loss one daughter, Mrs. J. J. Snyder, four grandchildren, one great-grandson, one sister, Mrs. Geo. Greenfield, of Kalamazoo, besides other relatives and many friends. "For us will ever live the gladsome smile, The winsome grace that were her own erstwhile."  Funeral services were held Monday afternoon from the late residence, the Rev. W. J. Prestidge of Dundee officiating. Burial in Burr Oak Cemetery.

Card of Thanks.  We wish, in this way to express our sincere thanks to all who helped and comforted us in our recent sorrow.  The Family.

19154. Alva Augustus Carpenter

Pedigree chart made by Lorna Carter, Athens, MI.  Reunion Journals of the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family reunion 1893 and after.

Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Augustus married Rose Hammond having a girl and boy, Hattie and Jay.  Their mother died when they were very young and later their father married Amelia Billings."

1860 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July. 2067/1881 Agustus was 14 years old and in the home of his parents, Calvin and Elnor (spelled this way) Carpenter.

1870 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 20 June.Augustus is not in his parents home.  He was probably away working, maybe in Branch County, as he married there in 1871.

1874 Michigan Census, Branch , Union Twp., Carpenter, Alva A., farm hand.

MARRIAGE.  Branch County Clerk, Coldwater, MI.  Vol. 3, page 79, #4783. Married 12 Nov 1871 in Union City, Alva Augustus Carpenter, age 25, b. Ontario , NY, of Union City, a carpenter and joiner, and Rose Ella Hammond, 19, b. Huron , Ohio, of Union City by Rev. William Pack, MG, witnessed by Lucius F. Blossom and Nina L. Blossom, both of Union City. (No parents given.)

1880 U.S. Census, Athens Village, Calhoun, MI, (Soundex Vol 4, ED 40, Sheet 27, Line 21)   Household, 282/289 Carpenter, Agusta A., age 33, b. NY, parents b. NY; Rose E., age 28, b. OH, father b. OH, mother b. NY; Maud V., 5, daughter, b. MI, father b. NY, mother b. OH.

In Branch County Clerk, Courthouse, Coldwater, Michigan, Index to marriages: Alva A. Carpenter to Minnie Amelia Billings, Book G, page 108.

1900 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens, MI. (Soundex, Vol 11, ED 28, sheet 13, Line 65), 347/348, Carpenter, Alvah, A., b. Aug 1846, age 53, md. 6 years, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. RI; Amelia, wife, b. Jan 1850, age 50, 2 children, 2 alive, b. WI, parents b. NY; Billings, Kate, daughter, b. Dec. 1881, age 18, b. KS, parents  b. MI; Carpenter, Jay H., son, b. Nov. 1886, age 13, b. MI, father b. NY, mother b. MI.

1893, Sept. 28, Reunion, Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family, A. A. Carpenter, age 47, and Mrs. A. A. Carpenter, age 44, (second wife) attended.  Reunion held in Athens, Calhoun, MI.  Miss H. M. Carpenter, age 12 (Mamie M. [Hattie M.]), and J. H. (Jay H.) Carpenter, age 6, his children by his first wife, Rose, were also there.

1894, August 25, Reunion, Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family, A. A. Carpenter, age 48, and Mrs. A. A. Carpenter, age 44, Hattie M. Carpenter, age 13, and J. H. Carpenter, age 7, of Union City (written by his name).

1895 Reunion, Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Family, A. A. (Alva Agusta) Carpenter, age 48, and M. A. (Minnie Amelia) Carpenter 45, (his second wife). Hattie, age 14, and J. H. Carpenter, age 8, were in attendance; of Union City, Branch, Mich.

1896, 1897, 1898, 1899 Reunions, Could not find the family in 1896 or 1897.  In 1898 Augustus Carpenter, no age given, Amelia Carpenter, and Jay are there, but could not find Hattie.  In 1899, A. A. and Mrs. A. A. and Jay were in attendance.

1900, 1901, 1902, 1903 Reunions.  Alva A. Carpenter, Amelia Carpenter and Jay Carpenter attended them all.  Hattie does not although her name is on the list.

1904, 1905, 1906, 1907 Reunions.  Alva A., Amelia, and Jay attend in 1904 and 1905.  In 1905 Hattie, now using her real name Mamie Carpenter and Fred Lux attended. (She married him in 1904). None of them attended after 1905.  Alva died in 1907.  Amelia did attend in 1909, 1911, 1912.  Hattie and Fred Lux and their son, Ellis, attended all four years.  Jay attended only in 1909.  This record will be continued on Mamie's notes.

The Athens Times, June 10, 1904.  Alva Carpenter moved yesterday from his farm to the John Hulberd house on W. Burr Oak Street.

Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Died.  Alva A. Carpenter was born in Bristol, Ontario County, New York, August 22, 1846.  Died May 20, 1907, being 60 years 9 months and 29 days of age. At the age of 7 years he came with his parents to Michigan, settling in Sherwood Twp..  Nov. 5, 1871 he was united in marriage to Rose Hammond of Union City.  Four children were born to this union - two daughters and two sons, one daughter and one son dying in childhood.  The wife and mother died leaving him with two small children to care for.  In Sept. 1892 he was again united in marriage to Mrs. M. Amelia Billings of Union City.  He had been in poor health for sometime, but for the last few months he failed rapidly, and at times he suffered greatly but he bore it patiently.  He was cared for by his faithful wife who did everything that could be done for him.  But we may hold our loved ones ever so closely, there comes a time when we have not the power to keep them longer.  He is the third brother out of the Carpenter family that has been taken in less than three years.  One by one the loving Savior calls our cherished ones from sight To those mansions o'er the river In that land of joy and light.  There is left to mourn his loss a wife, a daughter, Hattie M. Lux, and a son, J. Carpenter, of Kalamazoo, four brothers and two sisters.

DEATH.  Branch County Clerk, Coldwater, MI, Vol. B, p. 323, #1693. Died 20 May 1907 at Union City, Augustus Carpenter, age 60y8m22d, b. NY, father: C. Carpenter, b. NY (no mother's name was listed), occupation: carpenter, cause: cancer.

Rose Ella Hammond

Family information says she died when her two children were very young.  She also had two children who preceeded her in death.

30583. Maud L. Carpenter

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI. Household 282/299  Maud was 5 years old and in the home of her parents, Alva Agustus Carpenter and Rose J. Hammond Carpenter.

Calhoun County Cemeteries, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI, DAR 1947. N. Athens Cem., 1 mile south of Pine Creek.  Carpenter, Maude L. 1875-1880.

30585. Jesse B. Carpenter

Cemeteries in Calhoun County, Willard Library, Battle Creek, MI, DAR 1947, N. Athens Cemetery, 1 mi. south of Pine Creek.  Carpenter, Jesse B. 1883-1884.

Minnie Amelia Fisher

MARRIAGE.  Branch County, MI records, (Family History Center, Salt Lake City, film 908023) Vol. G, p. 108, #11587.  Married 26 Sep 1893, Alva Augustus Carpenter, age 47, b. NY, residing in Athens, father: C. L. Carpenter, mother: Elnor D. Pierce, occupation: carpenter; and Minnie Amelia Billings, age 44, b. NY, residing in Union City, father: F. H. Fisher, mother, Catherine O. Robertson, occupation: dressmaker, officiant: G. C. Draper, witnesses: Harriett Locke of Union City and Eliza B. Robertson of Girard, PA.  Each had been married once previously.

The Athens Times.  June 10, 1904.  Miss Katie Billings and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. Carpenter, went to Battle Creek Monday evening, the former passed the week there.  (Katie is Alva Carpenter's step-daughter.)

1920 U.S. Census, Branch , Union City Village, taken 12 Jan. ED 27, sheet 6A.  (Ellen Street) 201/210 Carpenter, Amelia, head, owns, farm, FW, age 69, widow, b. WI, parents b. NY.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times.  Thursday, January 7, 1926.  Mrs. Amelia Carpenter, a resident of Union City for many years, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Harold Maxwell, at Three Rivers, at 11:00 o'clock Saturday night after a short illness.  She was born in Metomen, Wisconsin, Jan. 30,  1849, the daughter of Franklin H. and Catherine (Roberts) Fisher.  February 22, 1874, she was married to Charles E. Billings, who died Nov. 1, 1883.  After the death of Mr. Billings she moved to Union City, where she spent the greater part of her life. In 1890 she was married to Alva Carpenter, who also preceded her in death in 1906.  During her many years residence in Union City she made a wide acquaintance and by her many deeds of kindness and helpfulness to the sick and those in distress she won the love and respect of all who knew her.  She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Orrin R. McIntyre of Detroit, and Mrs. Harold Maxwell of Three Rivers.  One brother, Sidney C. Fisher, of Battle Creek, two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews also survive.  After a short prayer service at Three Rivers the remains were taken to Union City where services were conducted Tuesday afternoon from the Methodist Church with the Rev. L. J. Nevins officiating.

A copy of Amelia's marriage license in the Family History Center, Salt Lake City, UT, said her mother was Julia A. Richey. The marriage record in Branch County Clerk's office said her mother was Catherine O. Robertson.  Her obituary says her mother was Catherine Roberts.  We are using Catherine Robertson in our records.

19155. Thomas Jefferson Carpenter

Sources of Information:  Pedigree chart from Mrs. Lina Snyder, Athens, MI.  Mrs. Ahlene Doubleday, Battle Creek, MI also sent information by correspondence.  Ahlene is the daughter of child #3, Carl Mitchell Carpenter.  "Carpenter Family Tree" pamphlet compiled by Bruce Young, Cleveland, OH 44135.  Correspondence from Mrs. Howard (LaVern) Carpenter, Battle Creek, MI.  Correspondence from Elma Carpenter, Battle Creek, MI, who sent "Carpenter Family Tree" to Donna H. Hellewell in 1981.

MARRIAGE. Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI.  Book 1, page 166, #2477. Married at Athens on 3 June 1875, Thos. J. Carpenter, 26, of NY and Emma F. Mitchell, 18, of NY.  Witnesses E. P. Rogers of Athens and H. Pierce of Sherwood.  Married by W. S. Hinds, MG. After their marriage, Thomas and Emma took over his father's farm where they lived and worked until they retired in 1901.  At this time they moved into the village of Athens, leaving the farm to be worked by their son, Carl.  This information was obtained from Thomas' granddaughter, Emma Ahlene, in 1997.

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI. ED40, sheet 3, line 27.  29/30 Carpenter, Thomas J., age 31, b. NY, parents b. NY; Emma F., wife, 23, b. NY, parents b. NY; Clyde J., son, 4, b. MI; Elton M., son, 2, b. MI.

1900 U.S. Census, Athens Twp., Calhoun , MI, taken 16 and 18 Jun.  ED28, Sheet 12, line 1.  303/304 Carpenter, Thomas J., head, WM, b. Dec 1845, age 51, md 25 years, occupation: farmer, b. NY; Carpenter, Emma F., wife, WF, b. May 1857, age 43, 6 children born, 6 children alive, b NY; Carpenter, Carl, son, WM, b. Oct 1880, age 19, b MI; Carpenter, Nina, daughter, WF, b. Jan 1886, age 14, b. MI; Carpenter, Neva L., daughter, WF, b. Apr 1889, age 11, b. MI.

1910 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens Village, MI taken 15 April.  ED30. /159 Carpenter, Thomas J., head, age 51 (should be age 61), married 34 years, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. NY; Emma F., wife, age 52, 6 children, 6 children living, b. NY, father b. NY, mother b. NY; Neva L., daughter, age 21, b. MI.

1920 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens, MI, taken 19-23 January.  ED35, sheet 14A. 336/348 Carpenter, Thomas J., head, age 71, b. NY, parents b. NY; Emma F., wife, age 61, b. NY, parents b. NY.

1893, 29 September, First reunion of the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Families in Athens, Calhoun, MI.  T. J. Carpenter and Mrs. T. J. Carpenter attended, so did their children, but only initials were used.  In 1894, Thomas J. Carpenter, 43, of Athens, Emma Carpenter, 37, Clyde 18, Elton, 17, Carl 13, Eddie 12, Nina 8, Neva 5 all attended.  In 1895, Thomas J. Carpenter 46, Emma F. 38, Clyde J. 19, Eddie C. 13, Nina N. 9, Neva 6, were there.  The family attended for many years thereafter.  Since we have other first-hand information on this family, the data will not be repeated here.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, deaths, book 6, page 325, #5, 17 Apr 1922, Carpenter, Thomas J., died at Athens Village, married, 73y3m22d, white, male, b. NY, retired farmer, father Calvin Carpenter, mother Eleanor Pierce, both b. NY.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Thursday, April 20, 1922.  T. J. Carpenter Passes Away.  Was For Nearly 70 years a Resident of This Vicinity.  Death has visited several homes in Athens during the past few weeks, and on Monday morning claimed another of our oldest and most estimable citizens, Thomas J. Carpenter, whose last illness was only a brief one.  Thomas J. Carpenter was born in Bristol, Ontario , NY, Dec. 25, 1848, and departed this life April 17, 1922, aged 73 years, 3 months and 22 days.  He leaves to mourn his loss, his wife, six children, 21 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, besides one sister, Mrs. Melissa Rundel, many nephews and nieces and a host of other friends.  He was the last surviving son of a family of 14 children, 9 boys and 5 girls, born to Calvin and Eleanor Carpenter. When about 5 years old, he came to Michigan with his parents, locating in Sherwood Twp., where they resided for a few years, after which they bought a home near the Carpenter school house, in which locality he spent nearly all his boyhood days.   In 1875 he was united in marriage to Emma Mitchell, and to this union were born six children, all of whom survive him and are located near home, except Merl Carpenter, who resides in Marcus, South Dakota.  He was an active member of the Reformed Church for more than 30 years.  He was a charter member of the K.O.T.M. Lodge.  In his passing away, the family loses a devoted husband, a kind and indulgent father and grandfather, and the community a kind and loyal friend and neighbor, always with a kind word and pleasant smile for all he met.  Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon from the Reformed Church, Rev. Telford officiating.  Burial in Burr Oak Cem.. -- Card of Thanks.  We wish in this way to express our heartfelt gratitude to the many friends and neighbors who in any way assisted in our great sorrow; to those sending flowers, the singers and Rev. Telford forhis comforting words.  Mrs. T. J. Carpenter and Family.

Emma F. Mitchell

OBITUARY.  April 1932.  Mrs. Emma Carpenter, Beloved Citizen Is Called to Last Rest. Mrs. Emma Carpenter, widow of the late Thomas Carpenter, and a much beloved resident of Athens for many years, passed away Saturday afternoon at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Elon D. Parlin, in Wakeshma Twp..  The funeral services were held at the Parlin home Tuesday afternoon, with the Rev. A. L. Ellsworth of the Methodist Church officiating.  Interment beside her husband in Burr Oak Cem. in this village.  Six of the grandsons acted as pallbearers.  Emma F. Mitchell, only child of Joel and Mary Mitchell, was born in Niles, N.Y. May 3, 1857, and departed this life April 16, 1932, aged 74 years, 11 months and 13 days.  When she was three years of age her mother died; later her father married again and the family moved to Hanover, Michigan, where they resided for several years.  After she became a young lady, the family moved again, this time to Athens.  In 1875 she was united in marriage to Thomas J. Carpenter, who preceded her in death on April 17, 1922. To this union were born six children, all of whom survive her: Clyde of Battle Creek; Merle of Marcus, South Dakota; Carl of Athens; Edwin of Union City; Nina Kline of Three Rivers, and Neva Parlin of Athens.  Beside the children, she leaves to mourn their loss, twenty-one grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, also one half-brother Fred Mitchell, of Oroville, California.  More than forty years ago she joined the Reformed Church of Athens and did active work until her health failed.  She was a charter member of the L.O.T.M. Lodge and the W.F.M.S. of Athens.  After her marriage she resided in Athens or the surrounding community, where she mademany friends who sympathize with the family in their bereavement. In her passing away the family loses a devoted and sympathetic mother and grandmother, and the community a kind and loyal friend and neighbor, all of whom will miss her in the circle of friendship and home life.

OBITUARY.  The Battle Creek Enquirer, Monday, April 18, 1932, page 5.  Mrs. Emma Mitchell Carpenter, 75, passed away Saturday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Elon Parlin, in Athens.  Besides the daughter at whose home she died Mrs. Carpenter leaves five other children, Clyde, of Union City; Merle, residing in North Dakota; Edwin, of Union City; Carl, of Athens, and Mrs. Nina Kline, of Leonidas.  Funeral services will be held at 2:30 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the daughter's residence in Athens.  The Rev. A. L. Ellsworth of the Athens Methodist Episcopal Church, will officiate and burial will be made in the Burr Oak Cem., Athens.

19157. Abner Loomis Carpenter

Sources of information:  Family chart showing relationships from Mrs. Lina Snyder of Athens, MI.  This chart was made by Lorna Carter of Athens, MI.  Personal interview with Opal Chichester Mitchell, (daughter of Minnie Ellen Carpenter, first child of Abner Loomis Carpenter and Agnes Almira Henry), in July 1981 in E. Leroy, MI.

Family group sheets were also filled out by other descendants from the Athens, Michigan, area:  Mrs. Opal Mitchell, C. Lyle Chichester and Maurice Sager of Battle Creek.  Also reunion book of the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Families 1893 - and many years thereafter was used. Names of persons attending the reunions were kept each year.

1860 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 31 July. 2067/1881.   Abner is 8 years old and in the home of his parents, Calvin Carpenter and Elnor (spelled this way).

1870 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI, taken 20 June. 182/182, Abner is age 17 and in the home of his brother, Henry L., age 35, b. NY; Susan, 35, b. NY; Lilla, 12, b. MI.; Elmira, 7, b. MI, and Abner, 17, b. NY.

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI. ED 40, Sheet 1 Line 25, also see Line 29.  6/6 Carpenter, Abner L., 27, b. NY, parents b. NY; Agnes, 24, wife, b. MI, parents b. NY; Minnie E., 5, daughter, b. MI; Ruth M., 1, daughter, b. MI.

1900 U.S. Census, Athens Twp., Calhoun , MI, ED 28, Sheet 11, Line 77, taken 16 June.  297/298 Carpenter, Abner L., head, WM, b. Nov. 1853, age 46, married 24y, occupation:  farmer, b. NY; Carpenter, Agnes A., wife, WF, b. Feb 1856, age 44, 6 children born, 6 children alive, b. MI; Carpenter, Ruth, daughter, WF, b. Sep 1878, age 21, occupation:  school teacher, b. MI; Carpenter, Lillie L., daughter, WF, b. Mar 1883, age 17, b. MI; Carpenter, Orland H., son, WM, b. Oct 1885, age 14, b. MI; Carpenter, Jennie P., daughter, WF, b. Feb. 1888, age 12, b. MI.

The Athens Times, June 10, 1904.  A. L. Carpenter was in Battle Creek Monday and Tuesday as a delegate from Athens Tent K.O.T.M.M. to the great tent.  He was accompanied by Mrs. Carpenter.

Biographical Review of Calhoun County, Michigan, by Hobart & Mather, Chicago, 1904, p. 420-422, Willard Library, Battle Creek, Michigan.  "Abner Loomis Carpenter.  Though but recently an acquisition to the business life of Athens, Abner L. Carpenter has yet demonstrated his ability to lead in commercial activity.  The name is well-known throughout this county, a complete history of thefamily being given on another page of this volume.  Mr. Carpenter is a native of New York state, having been born in Naples, Ontario County, November 20, 1852, removing with his parents to Michigan when a mere lad.  His parents remained in their first location in the state--Sherwood Twp., Branch County--for a short time, when they removed to Athens Twp., Calhoun County, where their son received his scholastic training in the district school in the vicinity of his home, while assisting with the home duties.  He worked for his father until his marriage in 1874, when he rented a farm in Athens Twp., where he remained for ten years, his energy and industry resulting in sufficient means to enable him to purchase a farm of eighty acres.  This was entirely new land, boasting no improvements nor upturned sod, located in the same Twp. southeast of the Village of Athens.  With the energy and determination which had characterized his first independent venture in life, Mr. Carpenter set to work to reclaim the land and make of it one of the many desirable properties of the county.  After ten years he sold out and purchased a hundred-acre farm located just west of the village, remaining upon this property until March 15, 1902.  At that date he traded the farm for the grocery store, which is now absorbing his time and interests.  He has successfully established himself in Athens, conducting his business according to conservative methods and giving to his large patronage a choice line of groceries.  Mr. Carpenter's wife was, in maindenhood, Miss Agnes Henry, a native of Marshall Twp., Calhoun County.  Her parents were Hugh Gregg and Maria (Thrall) Henry, natives respectively of Naples, Ontario County, New York State, and Connecticut.  In 1854 he removed with his family to Calhoun County, Michigan, purchasing a farm about three miles west of Marshall, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1861.  He then sold his property and located in Sherwood, Branch County, purchasing a hotel property, which he conducted for about six years.  After disposing of this business he removed to Athens, where he made his home until his death.  Both himself and wife are interred in the Cem. at Athens.  They were the parents of the following children:  James, William, Agnes and Inez, the wife of Calvin Lewis Wilson.  All make their homes in Athens.  To Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter were born six children, namely:  Minnie, who married Albert Chichester and they now reside in this Twp., the parents of three children, Opal, Raymond and Marta; Ruth, the second daughter, died at the age of twenty-two years.  She had graduated from the Athens High School when quite young, after which she taught for five years, making a name and place for herself among the progressive and up-to-date educators of the county. She was prominent in church and social circles as well as educational, being a member of the First Reformed Church of Athens, a member of the choir and a teacher in the Sunday School, and belonged to the auxiliary of the Knights of the Maccabees of this village, from all of these positions being greatly missed, not alone for the practical help she gave, but for the gentle and kindly nature, which won and retained for her a large circle of friends.  She sleeps in the Cem. in Athens.  Della, the third daughter, married Charles Bauer, and they are residents of this Twp., and the parents of two children, Earl and Leo; Lorane married Burton Martin, and they now reside in this Twp.; and Orland and Jennie are still at home with their parents.  In his political preferment Mr. Carpenter is an adherent of the Republican party through whose influence he has held for one year the position of county drain commissioner.  Intelligently interested in all educational questions he has served and is serving as a member of the board of education.  Fraternally, he is identified with the Knights of the Maccabees, being secretary of his lodge, while his wife serves in the same capacity for the auxiliary lodge of Athens. Personally, Mr. Carpenter is a highly respected and esteemed citizen, the many sterling qualities which have characterized his years of usefulness in the community, giving to him, to an exceptional degree, the confidence of his fellow townsmen.  He has always been ready to support every movement which has for its end the welfare of the public, and uphold the hands of those who were attempting reform and progression.  He is justly entitled to representation in this volume."

1910 U.S. Census, St. Joseph , Leonidas Twp., MI, ED 128, taken 15 April. 27/27 Carpenter, Abner L., head, mw, 57, married 1 time, 36 years, b. NY, father and mother b. NY, retail merchant, grocery and dry goods; Agnes A., wife, wf, 54, 6 children, 6 alive, b. MI, father and mother b. NY, occupation: saleslady; Orland, son, wm, 23, b. MI, father b. NY, mother b. MI, occupation laborer.

1893 Reunion of the Calvin L. Carpenter/Pierce Families held 29 Sept.  A. L. Carpenter, age 40, and Mrs. A. L. Carpenter of Athens, Miss Minnie, age 18, Miss Ruth, age 15, Miss Della, age 12, Miss "Ranny" (Lillie Loraine), age 10, Miss Jennie and O. H. Carpenter, their children, were all in attendance.

1894 Reunion in Athens, MI - Abner Carpenter, 41, Agnes Carpenter 38, Minnie 19, Ruth 15, Edith (Adella Agnes) 13, Loraine 11, Orla 8 and Jennie 5, were all in attendance.  1895 Reunion - A. L. Carpenter, age 42, Agnes, 39, Minnie 20, Ruth 16, Della 14, Lorain (spelled this way) 12, Orland 9, Jennie 7, were in attendance.  1897 Reunion - Abner, Agnes, Minnie and Bert, and Opal have joined Ruth, Della, Ranny, Orla and Jennie. Minnie had married in 1896 to Albert Earnest Chichester, who obviously went by Bert.  Their first child was Opal Adell.  They were all at the 1898 and 1899 reunions with the addition of Minnie's second child, Raymond.

1900, 1901, 1902, 1903 Reunions:  Abner and Agnes attended all four years.  Their daughter, Ruth, is marked "Died Jan 1901."  Minnie and Bert and their three children (added Marta Leona) are there the last three years.  Della (now Bauer) and Chart (Charles) and two children are on the list, Earl and Leo Bauer.  Della and Chart attended the first year and Della and Earl in 1901, Della, Earl and Leo in 1904.  Bert Martin, "Ranny" husband's name was there but attendance was not marked, but Ranny Martin, sister Jennie and brother Orla Carpenter are there all four years.

1904, 1905, 1906, 1907 Reunions:  All attended in 1904 from all three families, Abner, Agnes Carpenter, Opal Chichester and brother Raymond, Della Bauer, sons, Earl and Leo, Lorain Martin, Bert and Olan, their baby, and Abner and Agnes' two youngest, Orland and Jennie were in attendance in 1905, but none the last two years.

1909, 1910, 1911, 1912 - Abner attended the first three and then is marked dead.  Agnes attended in 1912. So did most of the family, but this record will not be continued here.  Agnes continued to attend for years.

The Athens Times, Friday, March 22, 1912.  Abner L. Carpenter, the Factoryville merchant, who has been ill a number of weeks with a serious attack of tic doloreaux, a disease of the nerves of the face, departed Tuesday night for Philadelphia, in company of his son-in-law, Edward Lafler, where he submitted to an operation for the relief of his trouble.

The Athens Times, Friday, April 12, 1912.  Factoryville.  A. L. Carpenter and Ed Lafler returned home from Philadelphia Wednesday night.

The Athens Times, Friday, April 12, 1912.  Factoryville.  A. L. Carpenter wishes to thank his many friends who so kindly remembered him with post cards when he was at the hospital.  It is at such a time that it cheers one to be thus remembered by their friends.

The Athens Times, Friday, April 19, 1912.  Factoryville.  A. L. Carpenter has been confined to his bed the past week with rheumatism.

The Athens Times, Friday, April 19, 1912.  A. L. Carpenter has another line of those up-to-date trimmed hats.  Call and see them.

The Athens Times, Friday, April 26, 1912.  Merchant Stricken with Paralysis. A. L. Carpenter, the well known Factoryville merchant, suffered a slight stroke of paralysis Monday morning, which paralyzed his tongue and left him in a dazed condition.  As we go to press he seems to be slightly improved, and his many friends hope that his affliction is only temporary.  Mr. Carpenter has been ill all winter and only recently went to Philadelphia for an operation, from the effects of which he was nicely recovering.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Friday, May 3, 1912.  Two Well Known Citizens Gone. Abner L. Carpenter, Factoryville Merchant, Died Monday.  In Business In Athens a Few Years.  Abner L. Carpenter, the well known merchant at Factoryville, whose serious illness was mentioned in last week's issue, died Monday evening, aged 59 years, and the funeral was held at the Factoryville Church Wednesday forenoon, Rev. Albright officiating.  Deceased was born in Naples, N.Y., and camewith his parents to Sherwood Twp., Michigan, when a mere lad, where they remained but a short time, when they moved to Athens Twp..  From the time he was old enough until he was married he worked for his father on the farm.  In 1874 he was married to Agnes Henry.  After his marriage he rented a farm for ten years when he purchased eighty acres of new ground, and he worked there diligently until he made it one of the most desirable farms in the community, selling the place ten years later and purchasing another.  In 1902 he traded his farm for a store in Athens, where he conducted a business for nearly three years, when he bought the Factoryville store and moved his stock there.  As a business man he was well liked and successful; as a citizen he was honored; as a member of the Maccabees he was faithful to the office entrusted to him, and as a Christian he was earnest and devoted.  Having been baptized and confirmed in the Reformed Church at Factoryville, Dec. 13, 1908, he at once became active and was elected to the eldership in January, 1909 and served for two years.  He is survived by his faithful and devoted wife, four daughters, one son, twelve grandchildren, three brothers and two sisters who deeply mourn their loss, and the whole community feels his departure very keenly.

Abner Loomis Carpenter's father had an older brother also named Abner (McNair) Carpenter who went to Indiana from New York.

The Athens Times, Friday, May 10, 1912.  Card of Thanks.  We desire in this way to express our heartfelt thanks to the friends and neighbors for their kindness and sympathy in our great sorrow and bereavement, also the singers, Rev. Albright for the comforting words, and to those who contributed flowers. Mrs. A. L. Carpenter and Family.

Agnes Almira Henry

Birth place also reported as Ontario County, NY, as well as Marshall, Calhoun, MI.

The Athens Times, Friday, May 10, 1912.  Factoryville.  Mrs. A. L. Carpenter made a business trip to Centreville Tuesday in the company with Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Pier.

The Athens Times, Friday, May 10, 1912.  Factoryville.  William Henry, wife and daughter, Ruth, of Athens were callers on his sister, Mrs. A. L. Carpenter.

The Athens Times, Friday, May 10, 1912.  Factoryville.  Mrs. Inez Wilson of Athens returned home Thursday after spending nearly two weeks with her sister, Mrs. A. L. Carpenter.

The Athens Times, Friday, May 10, 1912.  Factoryville.  James Henry of Battle Creek visited his sister, Mrs. A. L. Carpenter, from Thursday until Saturday.

The Athens Times, May 17, 1912.  Factoryville.  Mrs. A. L. Carpenter will continue the business for a while or until she can sell out.

The Athens Times, June 14, 1912.  Mrs. Carpenter received a draft for $1,000 last Friday from the K.O.T.M.M., the amount of insurance carried by the late A. L. Carpenter in that society.

The Athens Times, Friday, May 16, 1913.  Factoryville Store Sold. Mrs. A. L. Carpenter, who has conducted the store at Factoryville since the death of Mr. Carpenter, sold her stock of goods to Ralph G. Clement of Colon last week, and C. D. Cutler of this place bought of Mr. Clement the dry goods and furnishings included in the stock.  The store will be closed and the goods moved away, although we understand that Mrs. Carpenter who owns the building, will remain there.

The Athens Times, Thursday, August 8, 1913.  Mrs. A. L. Carpenter has moved her household goods from Factoryville and is occupying a part of the Waterman house, corner of Burr Oak and Main Streets.

1920 U.S. Census, Calhoun, Athens, MI taken 19-23 January, ED 35, sheet 12A. 337/349 Carpenter, Agnes A., head, age 63, b. MI, parents b. NY.

The Athens Times, Thursday, Oct. 28, 1920.  Pine Creek.  Mrs. Agnes Carpenter of Athens is caring for her daughter, Mrs. A. E. Chichester.  (This daughter would be Agnes' oldest daughter, Minnie Ellen, who had a baby girl, Margaret, on 25 Oct 1920.)

The Athens Times, Thursday, May 11, 1922.  E. P. Simmons, Mr. and Mrs. Mahlon Gould and Mrs. Agnes Carpenter attended the funeral of their cousin, Robert Carpenter, near Union City Friday afternoon. Robert Carpenter was actually a cousin of Agnes Carpenter's late husband, Abner Loomis Carpenter.  This Robert was married to Sarada Place and was the son of Calvin Loomis Carpenter's brother, Robert Carpenter and Plexana Wood.

The Athens Times, Thursday, May 8, 1924.  Mr. and Mrs. Orla Carpenter and family of near Marshall were Sunday afternoon callers at the home of the former's mother, Mrs. Agnes Carpenter.

OBITUARY. 1933.  Agnes Carpenter, eldest daughter of Hugh and Maria (Thrall) Henry was born in Ontario County, New York, Feb. 9, 1856 and departed this life Oct. 22, 1933, at the age of 77 years, 8 months and 13 days, at the home of her daughter, Loraine Martin.  At the age of five years she moved with her parents to Marshall, Mich., where she spent her girlhood days.  They then moved to Athens where on April 9, 1874 she was united in marriage to Abner L. Carpenter who departed this life on April 29, 1912.  To this union were born six children, five daughters and one son, Minnie Chichester of Leroy Twp., Ruth, who passed away Jan. 17, 1901; Della Bauer and Lorain Martin of Athens Twp.; Jennie Lafler of Wakeshma Township; Orland H. Carpenter of Bad Axe, Michigan.  In addition to the above, she also leaves 16 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, one sister, Mrs. Inez Stancer of Athens; one brother, James Henry of Battle Creek and several nieces and nephews and a host of friends. She was a charter member of the L.O.T.M. Lodge, also a member of the Reformed Church.  Failing health compelled her to give up her home in 1928, since which time she has been cared for by her four remaining daughters.  May 20, 1932, she suffered a severe stroke of paralysis, since which time she has been bed ridden.  She went to sleep Thursday and did not waken, passing away at 5:30 Sunday morning.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Spencer Funeral Home with Rev. J. C. Brillhart of Battle Creek officiating.  Burial in Burr Oak Cem..

Card of Thanks.  We wish to thank the relatives and friends for their sympathy and flowers, the minister for his comforting words, the bearers, the undertaker for his kindness at the death of our mother.  The Children.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI 1932-1933 deaths, Athens Twp., p8, #8. 22 Oct 1933, Agnes A. Henry, FW, widow, 77y8m13d, arteriosclerosis, b. NY, housewife, father was Hugh G. Henry, b. NY; mother: Mary Thrall, b. NY.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, book 6, page 341, #8, 22 Oct. 1933, Carpenter, Agnes A., died at Athens Twp., female, 77y8m13d, widow, b. NY, housewife, father Hugh G. Henry, b. NY, mother Mary Thrall, b. NY.

OBITUARY.  Battle Creek Moon Journal, Monday, Oct. 23, 1933.  Death Takes Widow of Abner Carpenter.  Athens, Oct. 23 - Mrs. Agnes Carpenter, 77 widow of the late Abner Carpenter, passed away Sunday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Bert Martin, in Athens, following a lingering illness.  A resident of this vicinity for many years, Mrs. Carpenter, with her husband, the late Abner Carpenter, operated a local grocery store and later a general store at Factoryville, prior to his death.  After her husband's death, Mrs. Carpenter operated the Factoryville store for several years before taking up her residence with her daughter in Athens Township. Surviving Mrs. Carpenter are four daughters, Mrs. Minnie Chichester, of Pine Creek; Mrs. Della Bauer, of Athens; Mrs. Jennie Lafler, of Wakeshma Twp., and Mrs. Martin; a son, Orland, residing in northern Michigan; a sister, Mrs. William Stancer, of Athens; and a brother, James Henry of Battle Creek.  Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Spencer Funeral Home and burial will be in Burr Oak Cem..

30594. Ruth M. Carpenter

1880 U.S. Census, Athens, Calhoun, MI.  6//6 Ruth M., 1, daughter, b. MI, is in the home of her parents.

1990 U.S. Census, Athens Twp., Calhoun , MI taken 16 Jun. 297/298 Ruth, daughter, WF, b. Sep 1978, age 21, occupation: school teacher, b. MI, is in the home of her parents.

DEATH.  Calhoun County Clerk-Register, Marshall, MI, Deaths, Book 3, page 37, #794, 17 Jan 1901, Carpenter, Ruth, female, 22y3m21d, single, typhoid fever, b. MI, teacher, father:  Abner Carpenter, mother:  Agnes Henry, place of death:  Athens.

The Athens Times, Saturday, January 12, 1901, p. 1.  Miss Ruth Carpenter, who has been very ill from typhoid fever, has evenly continued the past week and her recovery is looked for.

The Athens Times, Saturday, January 12, 1901, p. 1.  Miss Ruth Carpenter was not quite so well yesterday.  She is very sick.

OBITUARY.  The Athens Times, Saturday, January 19, 1901, p.1. Death of Miss Ruth Carpenter.  Miss Ruth Carpenter, whose illness from typhoid fever has heretofore been mentioned in this paper, died Thursday at 1:40 p.m., though the immediate cause of death was congestion of the lungs.  Funeral arrangements have been made as follows:  Friends meet at the residence of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Carpenter, Sunday at 1 o'clock, after which interment will be made in Burr Oak Street Cem., and services will follow at the Reformed Church, of which she was a member, at 2 o'clock, Rev. F. Ware officiating.  Miss Carpenter was taken ill during the vacation of her school in district No. 1 and was confined to her bed about four weeks.  She was an exemplary young lady and she leaves a large circle of friends who will regret her untimely death.  She was aged 22 years, 3 months and 21 days.

The Athens Times, Saturday, January 19, 1901.  Miss Julia Carpenter, a trained nurse of the Battle Creek Sanitarium who ministered at the bedside of her relative, Miss Ruth Carpenter two weeks previous to her death, is now employed by Mrs. B. F. Taylor to care for her son, Leon, who is very sick with typhoid fever.

IN MEMORIAM.  The Athens Times, Saturday, January 26, 1901, p.1. Miss Ruth M. Carpenter was born in the Twp. of Athens Sept. 26, 1878, and departed this life Thursday, Jan. 17, 1901, aged 22 years, 3 months and 21 days.  On Easter Sunday, April 5, 1896, Ruth was received into the First Reformed Church by baptism and the rite of confirmation.  In her church life she was constant, faithful and devoted, always ready and willing to help forward in any of the activities of the church; never refusing to do anything that would help to promote the interests of the Master's kingdom. During the time of her connection with the church she was absent but twice from the communion of the Lord's supper.  As a teacher in the Sunday School she was efficient and set an example of usefulness and helpfulness to her scholars.  The whole of her school life was spent in the Village of Athens, and when but 10 years of age she conceived the desire to become a teacher in the public schools.  This desire inspired her to make earnest effort in all her school work so that she became a good and faithful student.  There was one year of her school life when she was the only pupil that was not absent a single day and yet had the farthest to go to reach school.  To accomplish her desire she spared no time until she was permitted to stand with her class and graduate from the high school of Athens on the 12th of June, 1896, being the first of her class to go to her eternal reward.  She entered and followed the profession of her choice, as teacher, in which she was very successful, being universally loved and respected by her pupils, and also having the confidence of the school boards.  She taught in all 43 1/2 months of school.  In the home she took as much interest as the parents, always desirous of making home pleasant and attractive; in fact, she was a great lover of home.  On the 13th of July 1897, she became a member of the L.O.T.M. of this village, from whose circle she will be greatly missed.  Her funeral was held from the Reformed Church Sunday, Jan. 20, at 1 p.m., conducted by her pastor, Rev. F. Ware, assisted by the pastors of the village, it being one of the largest funerals held in Athens for some time.  Her parents, four sisters and one brother, together with a large circle of relatives and friends, survive her.

The Athens Times, Saturday, Jan. 26, 1901.  Card of Thanks.  To those who so kindly rendered their assistance during the sickness, death and burial of our beloved daughter, Ruth, we wish to express our heartfelt appreciation and thanks.  We would especially express our gratitude to Miss Julia Carpenter, Mrs. Wm. Henry and Mrs. James Henry for their untiring assistance; to the choir for their beautiful music, to the church, the schools and the L.O.T.M. for their beautiful floral offerings.  Mr. and Mrs. Abner Carpenter.

Copied from the Carpenter Family Reunion Journal:  "Died.  Jan. 17, 1901, at the home of her father, Abner L. Carpenter, Ruth Carpenter, aged 22 years, 3 mo., 21 days."

Biographical Review of Calhoun County, Michigan by Hobart & Mather, Chicago, 1904, p. 421.  In a biographical reivew of Ruth's father, Abner Loomis Carpenter, it states "To Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter were born six children, namely: . . . Ruth, the second daughter, died at the age of twenty-two years.  She had graduated from the Athens High School when quite young, after which she taught for five years, making a name and place for herself among the progressive and up-to-date educators of the county. She was prominent in church and social circles as well as educational, being a member of the First Reformed Church of Athens, a member of the choir and a teacher in the Sunday-school, and belonged to the auxiliary of the Knights of the Maccabees of this village, from all of these positions being greatly missed, not alone for the practical help she gave, but for the gentle and kindly nature, which won and retained for her a large circle of friends.  She sleeps in the Cem. in Athens."

30597. Orland Hugh Carpenter

It was reported that he had no children.  Orland's date of birth is from a hand-written note of Lina Ruth Sager according to Edwin D. Hicks in 1997 as well as in the Calvin Carpenter family records.

1900 U.S. Census, Calhoun County, Athens Twp., MI, Orland, age 14, is enumerated with his parents.

1910 U.S. Census, St. Joseph , Leonidas , MI, Orland, age 23, is enumerated with his parents.

MARRIAGE.  St. Joseph County Clerk, Centreville, MI, Vol. H, p. 15, #5324. Married 8 Dec 1910 at Athens, Orland H. Carpenter, age 25, residing in Leonidas, b. MI, occupation: laborer, father: A. Carpenter, mother: -- Henry (only the mothers' maiden names were listed in the marriage records); and Belle H. Wattles, age 18, residing in Sherwood, b. IL, father: Oscar Wattles, mother: -- Jones, occupation: housekeeper; witnesses: Clarence Swihart of Colon and Bessie Lafler of Leonidas; officiant: Cecil A. Albright, MG; neither had been married previously.

The Athens Times, May 8, 1924.  Mr. and Mrs. Orla Carpenter and family of near Marshall were Sunday afternoon callers at the home of the former's mother, Mrs. Agnes Carpenter.

In 1933 Orland was of Bad Axe, MI, according to his mother's obituary.  In 1938 Orland Hugh Carpenter was of Bad Axe according tohis sister's, Minnie Chichester's, obituary.

Belle H. Wattles

1910 U.S. Census, Branch, Sherwood Twp., MI, taken 28 April. 115/116 Maltby, Sarah, head, FW, age 63, widow, 1 child, 0 alive, b. OH, parents b. OH; Wattles, Belle, servant, FW, age 17, single, b. IL, father b. OH, mother b. MI; Wattles, Oscar A., boarder, MW, age 51, widower, b. OH, father b. NY, mother b. VT.