Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LKYC-LCD
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

-from Civil War Soldiers of Madison County, Missouri, by Geraldine Sanders Smith. November 1997.

Benjamin Lewis

Born 1823, Tennessee, son of George and Elizabeth Lewis

Married: Naoma Huett

Enlisted: Confederacy – December 1862, Co. A, 15th Regiment, Missouri Cavalry.

Captured 25 Dec 1863 in Ripley County, Mo. at “battleground hollow” as part of the Major James Wilson massacre”.

Transferred 5 Jan 1864 from Pilot Knob to Gratiot Street Military Prison, St. Louis, Mo.

Died 30 Jan 1864 in prison of inflammation of the lungs, St. Louis, Mo.


1850 Federal Census - Madison County, MO:

Ben is listed as resident of Elihu Dunn household #489

Elihu Dunn - 28 - SC
Maria - 22 - TN
Mary - 6 - MO
Robert - 4 - MO
Adaline - 2 - MO
Biela - 11/12 - MO
Ben Lewis - 24 - TN


!CENSUS

1850 census ...Dist. No. 76, Reynolds County, Missouri ...Benjamin Lewis (age 24) cannot read or write. He was born in Tennessee and is a farmer. The head of the household is Issac W. Cotton (age 34) also a farmer from Tennessee. There are nine people in the household. One of the people is John C. Edwards (21) a school teacher also from Tennessee. (This is probably our Benjamin Lewis as his future wife, Naoma Hewit, was living in her father's household in Dist. No.16, Reynolds County, Missouri. Benjamin'sfather, George Lewis, was still on the 1850 Tennessee census. Ben's brother, Robert, and his family were already in Missouri.)

1860 census ...Liberty township, Iron County, Missouri ...Benj. Lewis (age 35) was a farmer with real estate valued at 1200 and his personal property valued at $400. Oma (age 33) and Ben were both born in Tennessee and neither of them could read or write.The six Lewis children were all born in Missouri: Elizabeth (age 8), Nancy (6), Daniel (5), Polly (3), Kesiah (female), and William (1 month old). Daniel, Nancy and Elizabeth attended school during the year.

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

ADMINISTRATOR'S NOTICE.--Letters of Administration of the estate of Benjamin Lewis, deceased, were granted to the undersigned, on the 23rd day of September, 1867, by the Clerk of the County Court of Iron County, Missouri. All persons having claims againstsaid estate are required to exhibit them for allowance, to the administrator, within one year after the date of said letters, or they may be precluded from any benefit of such estate; and if such claims be not exhibited within two years from the date of said letters, they well be forever barred.

John F.T. Edward; Administrator.
(IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper ...Ironton, Iron County Missouri ...December 5,
1867)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
In the County Court of Iron County,

December ten, 1867.

(Estate of Benj. Lewis, deceased.]

John F. T. Edwards, Administrator of Benjamin Lewis, deceased, presents his petition to the court, praying for an order for the sale of so such of the real estate of said deceased as will pay and satisfy the remaining debts due by said estate, and yet unpaid for want of sufficient assets, accompanied by the accounts, lists, and inwentories, required by law in such case; on examination whereof it is ordered, that all persons interested in the estate of said deceased by notified that application as aforesaid has been made, and that unless the contrary be shown on or before the first day of the next term of this court to be held on Monday, the 2d day of March, next, an order will be made for the sale of the whole or so such of the real estate of said deceased as will be sufficient for the payment of said debts; and it is further ordered that this notice be published in some newspaper in this State for four weeks before the next term of this court.

A true copy. Attest:
feb6n31 JOS. Huff. Clerk

(IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper... Ironton, Iron Co., NO ...February 6, 1868)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
ADMINISTOR'S SALE

By virtue of an order of sale made at the March term, 1868, of the Iron County Court, I will offer for sale, and sell, at public auction, at the east front door of the court house in Iron County, on Monday, the 1st day of June, 1868, between the hours of 9 o'clock a.m. and 5 o'clock p.m. of that day, and during the sitting of said Court, the following described real estate, belonging to the estate of Benjamin Lewis, deceased, to wit:

Se 114 of sw 1/4 sec. 20, and ne 1/4 nw 1/4 sec. 29, town. 32 range 3 east, containing 80 acres, situate in Iron County, Missouri, on the following terms to wit:

20 per cent, cash in hand, and the balance on a credit of 6 months; the purchaser to give note with approved security for the payment thereof; and a deed to be executed on the complete payment of the purchase money.
Apr 9 n 40 John F.T. Edwards, Administrator.
[IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper... Iron Co., Missouri ...May 7, 18681

!NOTES

APPLICATION FOR ADMINISTRATION. STATE OF MISSOURI, COUNTY ...Mr. John F T Edwards Says that to the best of his knowledge and belief the names of the heirs of the said Benjamin Lewis deceased and their places of residence are respectfully as follows: NancyLewis, Daniel Lewis, William Lewis, Kizie Lewis, Mary Lewis Oma Lewis that the said Benjamin Lewis died without a will; that he will make a perfect inwentory of, and faithfully administer, all the estate of the deceased and pay the debts as far as the assets will extend and the law direct, and account for and pay all assets which shall come to his possession or knowledge.

John F.T. Edwards

Subscribed and sworn to before me this 23rd day of November A.D. 1867.
By J. T. Ake, Dep

*****************************************************************************************************************
!NOTES

Now for my mother her name was Omay Lewis she was borned March 10 1861 I dont no grandma name but grandpa name was Ben Lewis he had lots of brothers and 2 Sisters: Andy, Bob, John, billie, jim, Elizabeth marrd tom jackson, Hepsie Lewis married will Ruble they are all gone

Ben had a family he died in Sivel War of pneaumonia they 2 boys
1) william-william was married twice had 2 familys
2) Daniel-married 2 time 4 children 2 boys 2 girls
3) Nancy-one time 6 children 2 girls 4 boys
4) Kizy-once ten children 6 boys 4 girls 2
5) polly-twice 2 familey first 1 boy 2 girls second 2 boys girl
6) omay-once 8 children 5 boys 3 girls
7) a baby

grandma died of child birth she was a hewitt she had several brothers but dont no of any girls. there harvey Esau these 2 I have hear my mother speak about (This information was written by Lucy May Abrams Cole, a daughter of Omay Lewis Abrams) (Bob Abrams sent a copy to Linda Lewis in 1990)

!NOTES

Ben Lewis kids was subpena to be at the Court, Centerville Mo for the May term 1894 circuit. I have not found out why. (Information in letter written to Linda Lewis by Loren Wayne Ruble)

!NOTES

It is thought that Oma Huett Lewis lived from around 1829 to 1863.

The above research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992.

Benjamin and his brothers John and Andrew all enlisted 22 Dec 1862 in Pocahontas, AR. Another brother, William, enlisted 4 Oct 1862 in Pocahontas. AR. All were in Co. A, 15th Regiment, Missouri Cavalry. A cousin, Robert R. Lewis (sone of John amd Emiline Dunn Lewis) enlisted

Enlisted: Confederacy - December 1862, Co. A, 15th Regiment, Missouri Cavalry.

Captured 25 Dec 1863 in Ripley County, Mo. at "battleground hollow" as part of the Major James Wilson massacre".

Transferred 5 Jan 1864 from Pilot Knob to Gratiot Street Military Prison, St. Louis, Mo.

Died 30 Jan 1864 in prison of inflammation of the lungs, St. Louis, Mo.
______________________
Benjamin Lewis enlisted during the Civil War in the Confederate Army . He joined Captain Timothy Reeves' Independent Company, Missouri Scouts in Pocahontas, Arkansas on December 22, 1862 for "3 years of this war". This company subsequently became company A, 15th Regiment, Missouri Cavalry. Benjamin was 39 years of age when he enlisted as a private. Pvt. Lewis was captured on December 25, 1863, in Ripley County, Missouri at Battle ground Hollow as part of the Wilson Massacre. As a prisoner of war, he was transferred to the Gratiot Street Military Prison, St. Louis, MO from Pilot Knob, MO on January 5 , 1864. He died of "Inflamation Lungs" in the Gratiot Street Prison on January 30 , 1864.
Source: Information from Richard Abrams and published in the book, The Supreme Sacrifice.




Benjamin and Naoma Lewis’s children were raised by two of his brothers and a sister:

From 1870 Census:

William Lewis and wife Abigail raised Nancy and William
Andrew Lewis and wife Angeline raised Martha Mary “Polly” (listed as Mary in 1870 Census) and Daniel

Elizabeth Lewis and her husband Thomas Jackson raised Naoma, (Omy)

It is not known who raised the other children:
(Neither in 1870 Census)

Elizabeth
Kesiah “Kizzy” Kizzy married Andrew Ruble in 1877


Brothers John and Andrew and Benjamin Lewis enlisted on the same day in Pocahontas, AR Dec 22, 1862, their brother William had enlisted Oct 4 in Pocahontas, AR.

Christmas Day Massacre

http://dixieoutfitters.com/p/christmas-day-massacre?ol=no&pi=2662&ri=2649


A Christmas Day Massacre in the Southeast Missouri Ozarks
Friday, December 26, 2008
Clint E. Lacy

One of the most controversial pieces of work that late author and historian Jerry Ponder wrote was his account of the Wilson Massacre in Ripley County, Missouri; which occurred on December 25th 1863. On December 23rd, 1863, members of the 15th Missouri Cavalry, CSA, attacked and captured nearly 100 Union prisoners at Centerville in Reynolds County, Missouri; burning the courthouse down before they left. Ponder wrote that:

"An unusual group assembled at the Pulliam farm in southwestern Ripley County, Missouri for Christmas in 1863. Nearly 150 officers and men of the Missouri State Guard’s 15th Cavalry Regiment (Confederate); at least sixty civilians, many of them women and children; and 102 prisoners, officers and men of Company C, Missouri State Militia (Union).

The civilians were family members, friends, and neighbors. Confederate "hosts" and Union "guests" were all Missourians; but they were divided by perhaps the bitterest of all enmities-those of civil war.

The day’s activity was to begin with religious services conducted by the Reverend Colonel Timothy Reeves, commanding officer of the 15th Cavalry and a Baptist preacher of Ripley County. Then would follow Christmas dinner in the afternoon. The group at Pulliam’ s farm numbered above three hundred at the very least, if the figures on the record are to be believed. It was too many for a mere religious service and holiday dinner. Pulliam’s was one of Reeves’s regimental camps.

What began as a festive occasion ended in horror and tragedy. As the celebrants sat at dinner, their arms (rifles) stacked, they were surprised by two companies of the Union Missouri State Militia, more than 200 mounted cavalrymen. Only those guarding theprisoners, about 35 men, were armed. The Militia attacked without warning, shooting into the crowd, attacking with sabers, and killing at least thirty of the Confederate men instantly and mortally wounding several more. According to local tradition, many-perhaps most-of the civilians were killed or wounded as well.

The immediate cause of the Wilson Massacre was a series of events at Centerville, Reynolds County. Centerville Courthouse was some sixty miles north of Doniphan and twenty-five southwest of Pilot Knob. Late in 1863, Centerville was captured by the Union 3rd Cavalry from Pilot Knob. Company C was left as garrison. On December 21, while engaged in building stables on the courthouse grounds, they were surprised and surrounded by Company N of Reeves’s 15th Missouri Cavalry, under command of Captain Jesse Pratt, before the war the Baptist minister of Centerville. Company N was composed of farmers and merchants of Reynolds County. Probably Pratt and the Reeves brothers, also Baptist preachers, were long-time acquaintances. That Pratt was accorded the honor of recapturing his hometown was not accidental.

Captured were 102 Union men with their horses. Pratt took them south to Ripley County with a small group, leaving most of his men to garrison Centerville. He presented the prisoners to Reeves at Pulliam’s on Christmas morning, and joined his fellows of the regiment for the day’s festivities. One Union soldier had been allowed to escape at Centerville, doubtless to carry news of the event back to Pilot Knob. Reaction there was swift. Colonel R.G. Woodson, commander of the 3rd Missouri, ordered two mounted cavalry companies under Major James Wilson to pursue Pratt. They left Pilot Knob mid-morning on the twenty-third.

Wilson’s force rode swiftly, rising in the darkness of the twenty-fifth to be on the road at 3:00 AM. They passed through Doniphan that morning, and continued west toward Ponder, capturing pickets as they went, and descended on Colonel Reeve’s group and prisoners just as they were eating Christmas dinner" (1)

Mr. Ponder’s research on this subject can be found in his book: "History of Ripley County Missouri" , "A History of the 15th Missouri Cavalry Regiment, CSA: 1862-1865″ , in an article published in Ozark Watch magazine (Vol.IV, No.4, Spring 1991) entitled,"Between Missourians: The Civil War in Ripley County", as well as "The Civil War in Ripley County Missouri" (published by the Doniphan-Prospect News in 1992) His research was also convincing enough that author Paulette Jiles used it in her novel "Enemy Women".

It was during this time, that the controversy arose concerning Ponder’s research. Most of the criticism appears to have come from Ripley County Historian Ray Burson.

Mr. Burson contacted me several times and tried to convince me not to believe Mr. Ponder. He even sent me a packet of info that he has created to dissuade those who dare use Ponder’s research in their writings. Among the papers that Mr. Burson included inhis "packet" were pieces (that he put together) entitled: "Jerry Ponder’s Sources for the Wilson Massacre and Other Tales" and "Jerry Ponder On Providing His Sources".

Mr. Burson has also seemingly convinced historian and author Kirby Ross that Ponder’s account of the Wilson Massacre is fictitious. However, Ponder, shortly before his death in 2005 sent me two documents,

The two papers are:

"The Time of the War" By: Lindzy Dudley written in 1918. Dudley appears to have fought under Colonel Reeves. His name does not appear on the official records, however this is not uncommon. Many men "took to the brush" in order to defend their families from Yankee invasion. It is also my understanding that Confederate "Partisans" were not afforded the same pensions later in life as Union and regular Confederate troops were, therefore no pension records would exist to verify their service. In this piece Lindzy Dudley states (of the Wilson Massacre):

"Reeves was a Baptist preacher. He backed up every sermon with his pistol. Reeves men were mean. No quarter was given or asked. He had commanded a company till the end of 1863.

Colonel Righter was captured with General Thompson and Reeves was put in command of the 15th. In November a field hospital was attacked by colored cavalry and about 100 of Reeves’ men were killed. Reeves collected revenge but he never got over the loss ofsick and wounded not able to fight back. Just shot in their beds. He talked about that until he died. On Christmas, a month later, several companies were at the Pulliam farm for a service and feed with their families. This was on the old Tom Pulliam place northwest of Johnston’s Chapel and close to Oregon County and the Arkansas line. There was a big spring there on the Mill Branch where folks in that part had picnics. Reeves did a sermon and the group was ready to eat. The well known Major Wilson, the Yankee from Pilot Knob called "The Murderer", surrounded and attacked. The killed and the wounded were all over the field. Soldiers, their families, nearby families. All were killed. Those that could get across the creek and up the bluff on the so

It is interesting that Ray Burson of the Ripley County Historical Society, would question Dudley’s credibility in his account of the Wilson Massacre, yet in the book "History and Families of Ripley County Missouri" the historical society (who along with the publisher holds the copyright to the book) finds Dudley credible enough to relate who the first European settler of Ripley County was:

"In an interview with historian HUME in 1900, Lindzy DUDLEY reported that the first European resident was a "Wees RILEY" who arrived in 1802 with a Delaware Indian wife who soon died in childbirth" (3)

The other document was entitled: "Doniphan- No Man’s Land During the Civil War" By: T. L. Wright Jr. and was written in March ,1929. The paper appears to be one written for a High school assignment by T. L. Wright Jr.. On the copy that Mr. Ponder sent me "DONIPHAN PUBLIC LIBRARY" is stamped on the upper left hand corner of the page.

I was able to talk to Jerry Ponder over the phone, while he was in Texas (a few months before he died) and he told me that he found the documents after they had been discarded. During the time that he found the documents (1990-1991) the Doniphan Public Library and the Ripley County library were being consolidated.

In addition I contacted the Ripley County Library’s Doniphan Missouri location on Friday July 29, 2006 and talked to two separate librarians, Mr. Allen Rife and Mrs. Rebecca Wilcox. Both told me it was possible that the documents could have been discardedduring the consolidation. During a second phone interview conducted on August 7th, 2006 I talked to a third librarian Mrs. Patricia Robison, who told me that though she did not work at the library at the time of the consolidation, she is a life long resident of Ripley County it was "entirely possible" that documents were discarded during the consolidation of the two libraries in the early 1990’s.

As a side note, I was also able to check out a book from the Doniphan-Ripley County Library entitled "Doniphan and Ripley County History". There is no copyright date, but the earliest entries appear to be from the early 1900’s and the last entry appears to be in the early 1970’s and upon examination of the library stamp on this book, and the document that Jerry Ponder sent me, they are the same and one can clearly ascertain that the library stamp on the document Jerry Ponder sent me is valid.

T. L. Wright Jr.’s 1929 paper also gives long time residents accounts of the Wilson Massacre. Given the fact that this paper was written in 1929, it is possible that the accounts could have been eyewitness accounts. Certainly they could be accounts written by citizens who were living during the time of the "Wilson Massacre".

"On Christmas Day, 1863, Major James Wilson, later captured and executed by firing squad at Pilot Knob, and 200 Union troops from Fort Davidson at Pilot Knob, passed through Doniphan, traveling on a southeast course to Pulliam’s Farm, 17 miles from Doniphan where Colonel Reeves and his cavalry were encamped. A vicious, surprise attack ensued and 35 rebels were killed and 112 taken prisoner when the fighting had ended. But worse, families and neighbors were present and, in the heat of battle, Wilson’s soldiers killed over 50 civilians. Mrs. Betty Towell, Tom Pulliam and Ed Cline, long-time residents of the neighborhood, tell that the civilians killed, in camp for a Christmas visit, included women and children who were shot down the same as the rebel soldiers of Reeves’ Regiment. That action attests to the cruelty of the war." (4)

According to historian Kirby Ross, T.L. Wright Jr. was born in 1912. That would have made T.L. Wright Jr. 17 years of age at the time he wrote this document (which appears to be a high school paper). One of the criticisms that Mr. Ross has made in his attempt to discredit Jerry Ponder was posted on an online forum on August 14th, 2005. In it Mr. Ross states (in reference to the document written by T.L.Wright Jr. in 1929) that:

"…do you realize that this version of the T.L. Wright article has a four year old boy conducting complex historical interviews?" (5)

Ross continues by stating:

"Now as to Mr. Ponder’s fantabulous precocious four year old interviewer/historian, T. L. Wright, I refer you to Mr. Lacy’s posting that says:

"A major set-back was experienced by the Confederate Army on August 24, 1863, when General Jeff Thompson, Colonel William Righter and most of their staffs were captured at the hotel in Pocahontas while holding a planning meeting. General Thompson was taken to a military prison in Ohio and held there for over a year before he was released. Colonel Righter was taken to St. Louis by a circuitous route around Ripley County. He agreed to sign an alliance to the Union and put up $1,000.00 bond as assurance thathe would not fight again. The Colonel told me."

That last sentence bears repeating: "The Colonel told me."

Ponder is offering this to show that T.L. Wright personally interviewed Col. William H. Righter. This passage is so ridiculously bad that it is laugh out loud funny and begs to be repeated, for you see, T.L. Wright was born Feb. 15, 1912 and William Harmon Righter passed away on November 26, 1916." (6)

This criticism by Ross bears examination. First of all, as stated before, T.L. Wright Jr. was 17 years of age when he wrote his 1st version of "Doniphan: No Man’s Land in the Civil War" in 1929 and the words "The Colonel told me" seems to be more of a recollection of a story that William Harmon Righter told him when he was a young boy. Nowhere has Jerry Ponder ever wrote that T.L.Wright Jr. was conducting "complex interviews" at 4 years of age. It is also important to note that T. L. Wright Jr.’s 1929 version of "Doniphan: No Man’s Land During the Civil War", matches Lindzy Dudley’s 1918 version of what occurred at Pulliam’s Farm on December 25, 1863.

On the same online forum posted by Kirby Ross on Wednesday August 31st, 2005, Ross states:

"And with this published account of the document in question, if Jerry Ponder’s version of "the Wilson Massacre" is to be accepted, one must also accept that Wright participated in part of the massive cover-up of the massacre that Jo Shelby and Jeff Thompson would have also been a part of." (7)

There is no way that Confederate General M. Jeff Thompson of the Missouri State guard could be involved in the Wilson Massacre or have known about it because he was captured on August 22, 1863. The Wilson Massacre occurred on December 25, 1863. General M.Jeff Thompson was in a Yankee prison in the North at the time that the "Wilson Massacre" occurred. (7)

It is possible that after General Thompson’s release in 1864, that he had no doubt heard about the atrocities being committed in Ripley County and the surrounding areas, after he made his way back to Missouri just in time to participate in General Price’s1864 Missouri Expedition.

On the same August 31’st, 2005 online forum post Kirby Ross offers another version of T.L. Wright Jr.’s "Doniphan: No Man’s Land in the Civil War" which he claims is the "real" T.L. Wright Jr. document and was published in Doniphan Prospect-News Doniphan,Missouri Thursday, April 2, 1970. Ross states:

"By the way, note that Wright doesn’t refer to William H. Righter as being one of his sources in this article, or of having interviewed him when he was four years old." (8)

This is true, T.L. Wright Jr. does not make mention of Colonel William H. Righter as one of his sources in the 1970 Prospect-News newspaper article. However one must remember that there is a 51 year difference between the article written in 1970 , and theone written in 1929.Mr. Ross claims that the 1970 Doniphan Prospect News article is the "real" T.L. Wright Jr. article. Yet there is a third version of the T.L. Wright Jr. article that appeared in the Ripley County Library book, "Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War", there is no date on this piece, but it appears to be written around the same time period as the 1970 article. Like the 1970 article there is no mention of civilians killed or Colonel Righter. But there are areas in which the T.L. Wright Jr. article found in the book "Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War" differ from the version published in the Doniphan – Prospect news in 1970. Is it not legitimate as well?

It appears that in later years T.L. Wright Jr. decided to cite more official sources for his revised work, "Doniphan: No Man’s Land in the Civil War" and his version of the Wilson Massacre seems to follow other versions in the "Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War" book found in the Ripley County Library. This does not make his original version any less valid. Remember the 1929 version quoted long time residents of Ripley County who lived in the area.

No one knows why T.L. Wright Jr chose not to include these sources in the two other versions of his paper in later years.

Mr. Burson’s criticism seems to be centered around Colonel William H. Righter himself and whether or not he was a real Colonel. In a personal letter sent to me by Ray Burson entitled: "Jerry Ponder’s Sources for the Wilson Massacre and other Tales" Bursonwrites:

"The tale: That William Harmon Righter was the founder and Colonel of the 15th Missouri Cavalry, CSA , captured at Pocahontas , AR with Gen. Jeff Thompson and then sat out the rest of the war in St. Louis. Righter is a prominent figure in Ponder’s books on the 15th Missouri Cavalry, The Battle of Chalk Bluff and Maj. Gen. John S. Marmaduke.

Historians have not found any record of Righter’s service in the CSA and there is not mention of it in his biographic sketches and three obituaries. He is not mentioned in the OR with the Capture of Thompson or elsewhere. He was merely a Southern sympathizer. Ponder got the VA {Veterans Administration} to provide a headstone which he had placed in the Doniphan City cemetery for Righter without providing Righter’s service record" (9)

A "Post It" note was attached to the letter which reads:

"Mr. Lacy , Here’s the real scope of Ponder’s mischief. See IV- what does creating fake colonels add to the story of Southern valor during the Civil War? Regards, Ray Burson"

The fact that Burson has stated that no service record of Righter in the CSA has been found doesn’t mean that Righter did not serve in some capacity. As stated at the beginning of this article, this was not uncommon, many men "took to the brush" and fought as informal companies of partisans. It is extremely doubtful that the Veterans Administration would have provide a headstone for Colonel Righter, free of charge, without some kind of documentation that Righter served in some capacity during the war.

In Jean Ponder’s story "Doniphan During the Civil War", she states that:

"There is an amusing anecdote told about a group of southern sympathizers who lived in Doniphan. Living in the town at that time was a man by the name of W.H. Ryder, who claimed he was from Virginia. – ‘A gentleman from Virginia – drunk or sober.’ One dayall of these southern sympathizers were gathered in the town. Suddenly, without any warning, a division of the Union Army marched into town. Caught unprepared, the Southerns had to ‘take to the bushes’ for their lives. As Ryder was the fastest runner of them all and got to safety first, the rest of them immediately made him their colonel." (10)

If these men were ordinary citizens, then why were they afraid, why did they run? If they were nothing more than ordinary citizens, then why were they gathered in town? What was the intention of the gathering?

The fact that obituaries about Righter did not mention any military service is not proof positive that he did not fight. After all Colonel Timothy Reeves, after the war, was reluctant to discuss his war time experiences, stating that "he wished to be remembered as a good preacher, not a civil war hero", obituaries about him made no mention of his military experience. (11)

Jerry Ponder said in his research that Righter’s commission came from Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson. Ponder’s critics state that Thompson made no record of this. Is it possible that this could have happened? It is entirely possible. In his book "Thisis the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson", Thompson himself writes that:

"About the 1st of July 1861, Cyrus Black and Miles Ponder of Ripley County, Missouri came down to Pocohontas {Arkansas} to inform me that the citizens of Ripley and Carter counties were meeting at Martins-burg to organize a Battalion and desired me to come up and take command" (12)

Thompson further states that he was elected to command the battalion and that Aden Lowe was not a candidate because of the strict discipline that he enforced before Thompson’s arrival. One of Jeff Thompson’s first acts as commander of the Ripley County Battalion, was to, start enlisting men as Partisan rangers. Thompson writes:

"I saw at this time the necessity of mounted troops even for my small command, and I authorized James F. White to raise as many men to act as Partizans and Flankers , as he could find with good horses: (13)

Sam Hildebrand, who later became known as a Missouri Bushwhacker, is another partisan that was given a commission by General M. Jeff Thompson. In his autobiography Hildebrand wrote:

"As soon as I could gain admission to the General’s headquarters I did so, and he received me very kindly. He listened very attentively to me as I proceeded to state my case to him – how my brother had been murdered, how I had barely escaped the same fate, and how I had finally been driven from the country.

General THOMPSON reflected a few moments, then seizing a pen he rapidly wrote off a few lines and handing it to me he said, "here, I give you a Major’s commission; go where you please, take what men you can pick up, fight on your own hook, and report to me every six months." (14)

Even though Hildebrand received a Major’s commission from Thompson, the act is not mentioned in "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson". Nor is it mentioned in "General M. Jeff Thompson’s Letter Book July 1861-June1862″, written by Jim McGhee, therefore the fact that there is no record of Righter’s commission, doesn’t mean that he was not given one by Thompson.

Yet there is another possibility in this story. If there was a record of Colonel Righter’s or Sam Hildebrand’s commissions given by M. Jeff Thompson, the records might have very well been destroyed at the time of M. Jeff Thompson’s capture in Pocahontas, Arkansas, on August 22, 1863. In the book, "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson", Thompson writes:

"Kay spread out my maps to examine them and by -the -way I had the best set of maps that I saw during the war, for I had all kinds of military information on them, and the name and status of nearly every man in Southeast Missouri. I sat down in my shirt sleeves to copy some drawings, about 4 P.M. We heard horses running. I did not look up, but Kay did and shouted ; "By George , here’s the Feds." I sprang to my feet, and sure enough they were within forty yards, with a string of them as far as the eye could reach, all coming at full speed. I gasped as if my heart would jump out of my mouth, but instantly sat down again, and said:, Kay, burn those maps." (15)

The only flaw in the Linzy Dudley, T.L Wright Jr.’s 1929 document, and Ponder’s writings that I could find is the fact that Righter was not captured directly with Thompson. Again quoting "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson" Thompson writes of being brought to Doniphan , Missouri in route to Pilot Knob, Missouri that:

"There were only five military prisoners, being Kay, Train, McDonald , Miller and myself, but there were a large number of people , men and boys, brought into camp to prevent them from carrying the news". (16)

Righter could have very well have been in the latter group. Perhaps this is the reason that Lindzy Dudley told Charles Booker in 1918 that:

"Colonel Righter was captured with General Thompson" (17)

In the book "The Civil War in Ripley County , Missouri" it states that Colonel W.H. Righter following his capture was:

"…was taken to Gratiot Prison in St. Louis. There he agreed not to further take up arms and was paroled. He remained in St. Louis the remainder of the war, reading law. His wife, Anna Wright Righter, died there in February 1864. When the war ended, Colonel Righter returned to Ripley County and, in 1866, was elected as the state representative from Ripley County. Because of his Confederate service, the General Assembly refused to seat him and appointed a "stand -in" to represent the county…In 1867 Colonel Righter went to Mississippi and raised cotton, but he returned to Ripley County the same year and built the Bay City Mils on Current River" and that, "As soon as the Missouri constitution permitted former Confederates to practice law in the state Righter leased the mills and opened a law office in Doniphan. He was considered an excellent lawyer and had a large practice. He was elected prosecuting attorney for Ripley County in 1876″ (18)

The Thursday Sept. 2d, 1909 issue of "Twice a Month Magazine" confirms that Righter:

"returned to St. Louis October 1863, planted cotton in Mississippi in 1866-67 and returned to Ripley County in 1868″ (19)

"Twice a Month Magazine" also stated that :

"Colonel Righter is a typical Southern gentleman possessing nearly all their strongest characteristics. During the Reconstruction days of the late 60’s and early 70’s he had many "warm skirmishes" with the "carpet baggers" his county contained about 300 Democratic voters who were "slow to come under the ban". Leaving it in the hands of about 12 Republicans to handle its affairs". (20)

Righter was elected to the State Legislature in 1882, after Reconstruction, when former Confederates were once again allowed to hold office. (21)

Even without the discussion of what role Colonel William Harmon Righter played in the War Between the States, there is plenty of other evidence that proves the "Wilson Massacre" could have happened. Yankee atrocities happened throughout the Missouri Ozarks during the war and fighting between warring factions was both personal and brutal.

On a U.S. Forestry Service website entitled, "History of the Irish Wilderness", a detailed description of Union policy toward Missouri Southerners living in the Southeast Missouri Ozarks is given.

The website cites the War of the Rebellions: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, one entry in particular shows proof that the women of the area were looked down upon and treated badly by the occupying Union soldiers. Captain Robert McElroy of the 3rd Missouri State Militia (Union) wrote that:

"I am of the opinion that the women in that region are even more daring and treacherous, and in fact, worse than the men, as we found in their possession a number of newly made rebel uniforms, etc. (22)

Jerry Ponder’s critics cite eye-witness accounts of Union soldiers who were present at the Wilson Massacre and stated that all of the prisoners were well cared for. But reading through the U.S. Forestry Service’s "The History of the Irish Wilderness" , which cites the official records of the War of the Rebellions, one will find that anyone who was even "suspected" of being a "Bushwhacker" was taken prisoner. In Captain Boyd’s (who was a Union Scout) report he states that:

"…found fresh trail of horses, followed them on Jack’s Fork to the residence of Miles Stephens and brother, Jack Stephens, whom’ I’m satisfied were Bushwhackers. Burned the house." (23)

Anyone "suspected" of harboring or aiding a Bushwhacker had their property burned, furthermore, in Captain John Boyd’s report of the 6th Provisional Regiment EMM (Union) one will find between November 4 – 9 , 1863 ,there were over 23 houses burned , and 10 men killed, by these Union troops, the majority of which were prisoners who "tried to escape" and were shot. (24)

All of this occurred little over a month before the "Wilson Massacre" and we are supposed to believe that the Union militia treated Reeves men and local civilians any better on December 25, 1863?

There are other pieces of evidence that suggest that the "Wilson Massacre" did happen. At the Stoddard County Civil War Cemetery in Bloomfield, Missouri, there are monuments erected in honor of Southern soldiers and civilians who were killed during the War Between the States. The monuments are unique due to the fact that they have detailed information about the individual on the front of the monument, name, rank unit, etc. and on the back of the monument a detailed description of where and how the individual died.

One states on the front of the monument: "PVT. , Thomas McKinney, Co. A, 15th Mo. Reg. Cav. CSA. July 16, 1845 – Dec. 25, 1863." The back of the monument reads: "Killed in Action, Ripley County, Mo".

Another monument is more specific. The front reads: "In memory of , PVT. , Jacob Foster, Co. A, 15th Mo. Cav. , April 18, 1830- December 25, 1863."

The back of the monument reads: "Died of Wounds, Received At, Christmas Dinner, Doniphan Mo., "Wilson Massacre" (25)

If one looks at the events following the "Wilson Massacre" a clear picture begins to develop that something "very significant" happened on December 25, 1863 in Ripley County , Missouri. An event so drastic, that the effects of it would be felt throughout the rest of the War Between the States in Missouri, and even after the war had ended.

First of all something must have been weighing very heavily upon Major Wilson’s mind for in March of 1864 he told his nephew, while he was on furlough:

"If you ever hear of me being taken prisoner by the guerilla Tim Reeves you may count me as dead. I know I shall never get away from him alive. I have broken up his recruiting operations three times." (26)

Was Wilson worried about his life because he had broken up Reeves’ recruiting operations? Or did he fear retribution for something much worse, that he did not want his family to know about?

One must not discount the fact that that during the General Sterling Price’s Missouri Expedition of 1864, at the Battle of Pilot Knob, Missouri:

"Maj. James Wilson, Third Cavalry Missouri State Militia, after being wounded was captured on Pilot Knob, and subsequently with six of his gallant men was brutally murdered by order of a rebel field officer of the day." (27)

In an article entitled: "No Heroes On Either Side" written by Ponder critic Ray Burson and published in the Prospect-News (Doniphan Missouri’s local newspaper) and dated Wednesday, July 16,2003 , another Ponder critic Kirby Ross attributes Major Wilson’sdeath to the burning of Doniphan, Missouri.

"Ross , whose article on the burning of Doniphan will be in an upcoming issue of North – South magazine, linked Wilson’s death to the destruction of Doniphan "which had taken place earlier, two weeks to the day." (28)

However, in the "Report of Confederate General J.O. Shelby C. S. Army, Commanding Division. AUGUST 29-DECEMBER 2, 1864. Price’s Missouri Expedition."

It appears that General Shelby administered justice to the perpetrators who were responsible for the of burning Doniphan, almost as quickly as the act was committed. Shelby wrote that:

"On the 12th of September I moved camp from Sulphur Rock, Ark., toward Pocahontas in anticipation of the arrival of the army, and on the 19th, after having received my instructions, started for Missouri, and encamped in Doniphan. Before arriving there, however, couriers from Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, of Marmaduke’s command, brought information that 100 Federals were in the town and pressing him back. I immediately started forward sufficient re-enforcements, but the enemy fled before reaching them, burning the helpless and ill-fated town. That night I dispatched 150 men under Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson to pursue the vandals. They came upon them early the next morning [20th], attacked, scattered, and killed many of them. I pushed on then rapidly for Patterson, destroying on the way the bloody rendezvous of the notorious Leeper, and on the morning of the 22d I surrounded and charged in upon the town. Its garrison, hearing of my advance, retreated hastily, but not before many were captured and killed,

Confederate General M. Jeff Thompson offered another reason for the execution of Major James Wilson. As mentioned earlier in this article, Thompson was in a Union prison at the time of the "Wilson Massacre", but he was exchanged in time to make his way back to Missouri to join Confederate General Sterling Price’s 1864 Missouri Expedition.

In May of 1865 Thompson surrendered 10,000 men at Jacksonport , Arkansas. Out of those 10,000 men, only one was not paroled. Confederate Colonel, Timothy Reeves, Commander of the 15th Missouri Cavalry, CSA. Thompson wrote that:

" In a few days we finished all the paroles , except that of Timothy C. Reeves, whom Col. Davis would not agree to parole , considering him outlawed for the shooting of Major Williams { Major Wilson, this was a misprint} and five men on the Price Raid; but I must state for Col. Reeves, that he was as good a man and soldier as any in the command , and his shooting of that party was entirely justifiable; only that it should have been by such an order and form that retaliation would have been avoided.

I solicited to have this party turned over to me, that I might have them shot in due form, and Reeves men refrained from killing them for three days in hopes that I would get them; but responsibilities of this kind were not to our commanders liking , and they were turned over to Reeves to guard, with a pretty full knowledge that they would be shot.

I knew Reeves men , nearly everyone of them, and the provocation was bitter, for I had seen the blackened ruins and lonely graves in Ripley county with my own eyes." (30)

Thomas Lowry in his book, "Confederate Heroines" confirms that the burning of Doniphan was only one of the reasons for Reeves’ execution of Wilson. In fact according to Lowry, Wilson’s burning of Doniphan was a reprisal for how quickly Reeves reformed hiscommand in the wake of the massacre. Lowry writes:

"At Christmas, 1863,Reves-officially Captain Reves,15th Missouri Cavalry (Confederate)-was holding a large conclave at Pulliam Spring, just south of Doniphan, Missouri. The gathering contained both men from his command and other units, together with theirwives and children and a number of Union prisoners, as dinner cooked, no less than 5 preachers exhorted the crowd to their Christian duties. Foremost among them was the Reverend Captain Reeves who preached to his Yankee prisoners, "all afternoon".

As the preaching proceeded and the dinner cooked, Major James S. Wilson of the Third Missouri State Militia Cavalry (Union), who had been tracking Reves for days, surrounded the camp meeting. Just as Christmas Dinner was served, the Yankees attacked. In addition to the 30 Confederate soldiers killed and 112 captured, 60 civilians, many of them unarmed women and children, were killed and wounded. This outrage so inflamed Southern sympathizers that the influx of new volunteers into Reves’ unit outweighed the Rebel loss. With his new recruits, Reves raised such havoc, burning Union farms and killing Union men, that Wilson returned a few months later and burned the entire town of Doniphan to the ground.

This set the final stage for Wilson and Reves. Wilson was captured in late September, 1864, at the Battle of Pilot Knob. A few days later, Reves took Wilson and six of his men to a little clearing and shot them dead" (31)

The 2002 publication of Lonnie Speer’s "War of Vengeance" carries the testimony of testimony of several Union captives who were present when Reeves caught up to the captives as Price’s army was moving west after the battle. The eye witness accounts suggest that Reeve’s was very selective about who was to be executed when he arrived in Franklin County, Missouri, Speer’s writes:

"As their journey continued, Wilson and the other prisoners remained silent. Each of their faces reflected some degree of indifference, resignation or deep thought. Many were consumed with thoughts of their families or loved ones back home while others were consumed with what loomed ahead. The only sounds heard were the rustle of clothing, the squeak of saddle leather and the occasional bark of demands as the procession moved down the road. It wasn’t long, though, before their quite thoughts were rudely interrupted.

"Halt!" commanded Lt. Col. John T. Crisp, the Confederate officer in charge of the prisoners, as he road along the right flank of the procession. By this time the group was about ten miles south of Union, Missouri in Franklin County.

As the captives stood on the road, facing north, they could hear the pounding of horses’ hooves approaching from the south, a short distance behind them. Within moments a small band of riders rode up to the procession and quickly reigned to a halt stirring up a cloud of dust. Slowly the lead rider rode past the prisoners and slowly drew up close to Crisp; they began to talk quietly. Some of the prisoners recognized this new arrival as Col. Timothy Reves {Reeves} a guerrilla leader attached to Fagan’s division. Crisp and Reves reigned their horses to one side and rode a few yards away from the group to continue their conversation in low voices.

"Line up single file!" Crisp ordered as he rode slowly back toward the group.

The prisoners reluctantly fell prisoners as he passed. Upon arriving at the end of the line , he turned his horse and into line along the center of the road as Reves road up and down the column looking over rode past the prisoners again,glaring into theireyes and looking over their uniforms one by one.

"Soldier, what’s your name?" Reves demanded upon noticing the shoulder strap insignias on the major’s jacket.

"James Wilson" came the reply.

"What regiment?" Reves shot back.

Proudly and defiantly Wilson replied:" The {3’rd} Missouri Cavalry State Militia".

"Step forward!" Reves demanded.

Wilson took two steps forward as Reves continued riding down the line.

"What’s your regiment?" Reves demanded of another

"Third Missouri State Militia", answered Cpl William Gourley.

"Step forward!", Reves again demanded and continued down the line."

Although no one seemed to know much about Reves , he appeared to be in his mid to late-thirties and, with his thick black beard ,dark piercing eyes and large build, he was an imposing and intimidating figure as he sat on his horseback nearly six feet above the prisoners, glaring down on them.

Upon reaching the middle of the line, Reves again turned his horse and halted, facing the prisoners. Slowly and deliberetly he leaned forward and his saddle and , resting his arms across the pommel, ordered the prisoners to call out their regiments in succession.

As they did, each prisoner giving the "{3rd} Missouri State Militia" was ordered to step forward. These included William Grotts, William Skaggs, John Shew and John Holabaugh. One prisoner a man of eighteen to nineteen years of age wearing the insignia ofan artillery bugler and believing members of the Third Regiment were possibly being singled out for parole lied and claimed to be a member of "Company H {3rd} Missouri State Militia." To this day his true identity is unknown. He too, was told to step forward

As they continued down the line each prisoner called out his regiment, Hiram Berry and Oscar Gilber near the center hastily agreed to give a different command.

"Seventh Illinois Cavalry" each of them said as their turn came.

Upon hearing this William Axford, farther down the line began to panic. "I don’t like this" he muttered to the prisoner on his right. "They’re singling out members {of the 3’rd}! What should I do?"

"Give the same regiment and company I do" the prisoner whispered out the side of his mouth as he continued facing forward.


"Company B {14th} Iowa Infantry" the prisoner answered as his turn came.

"Company B {14th} Iowa Infantry" Axford repeated and was relieved when Reves gave no response.

Upon hearing some of his troops give different regiments began to sense what might be happening and was concerned about those who hadn’t.

"It’s me you want" Wilson called out at his looked down the line at Reves. "Have the others step back in line."

"I will do no such thing Major!" Reves blurted as he glared back at Wilson. " Now stand there and shut up!" Turning toward one of his troops, Reves ordered, "Put a double guard on that damned Major!"

After the last prisoner in line called out his regiment, Reves men directed their horses to the lead and flanking position around the seven who had been separated from the others, doubling up around Wilson.

Crisp then rode up to the remaining prisoners and released them on parole after they took an oath to never bear arms against the Confederacy again and after they promised to leave on a northerly route out of the area. After signing a roll, the parolees quickly departed.

"Lead ’em off!" Reves called out when the other prisoners were out of sight and Crisp had begun to lead his men out of the area in another direction.

As the Major and six additional prisoners passed by , being led off in a southwest direction , Reves glared at Wilson and pulled his horse in behind the group, taking up the rear position to follow them out across the flat land toward a small ridge…

As the prisoners crossed over the ridge and approached a stand of trees boarding a small stream, prisoners Gourley, Grotts, Skaggs, Shew and Holabaugh probably couldn’t help but think about their families at home. Perhaps they were wishing to be back on their farms or wondering how long it would be before they got to see their families again. Whatever they were thinking, their thoughts were quickly interrupted.

"Halt!" Reves ordered.

As the prisoners stood their, next to a ravine that led down toward the creek, they could hear their rider-escort dismounting.

"About face!" Reves called out.

As the prisoners turned, for just one split second they probably saw the gaping ends of the gun barrels. Whatever they saw, in that instant after they turned around it was over. As the gunshots echoed down through the timber and across the creek, seven bodies crumpled like rag dolls and collapsed in a heap across the ground. One soldier ran over and shot Wilson’s prone body twice more in the head.

Calmly, the soldiers climbed back onto their horses and rode off over the ridge out of sight"

Is it possible that Jerry Ponder made some mistakes in his research? Yes. Everyone makes mistakes. But Jerry Ponder was a retired military intelligence officer, and far from inept.

Is it possible that his two greatest critics Ray Burson and Kirby Ross are biased in their research?

In an online webpage entitled, "The Military Record of Major James Wilson", author Willard S. Bacon writes that:

"Mr. Kirby Ross who had many relatives, who served in the 3rd MSM, provided immeasurable help, in finding obscure sources and documents, from many repositories." (33)

(Major Wilson, was the commander of the 3rd Missouri State Militia, which attacked Pulliam’s Farm on December 25, 1863)

Friends of Jerry Ponder have also told me that Ray Burson, was not originally from Ripley County, Missouri, but from a Northern state, and that it is rumored his wife is a descendant of one of the 14 families in Ripley, County Missouri that were pro-Union during the war. I have attempted to contact Burson in the hopes that he could shed some light on this subject. But as of yet he has not provided any answers to this question.

Perhaps Jerry Ponder said it best when he said that:

"Some questions will probably never be satisfactorily explained" (34)

That being said, there are numerous accounts of the events that happened at Pulliam’s Spring, on Christmas Day, 1863, some official, some unofficial. Much time has passed and it is like trying to piece a puzzle together.

While we might not have all of the pieces to complete the puzzle (at this time) there are enough pieces to give us a clear picture about what happened. The testimony revealed in Speer’s book, "War of Vengeance" of captured Union soldiers that were turned over to Colonel Reeves, gives us perhaps the best perspective.

If Reeves was retaliating against the burning of Doniphan, Missouri, then why did he simply parole Union prisoners who were not in {or pretended not to be part of} the Third Missouri State Militia?

Reeves, "glared" at Wilson, he singled out members of the Third Missouri State Militia. Months before, Wilson gave his watch to his nephew with the grim message that if he were ever caught by Reeves, he would be killed.

Even after the members of the Third Missouri State Militia were executed, for good measure, one of Reeves men shot Wilson two more times in the head.

There was a hatred for Wilson that went beyond burnt buildings and farmsteads. Reeves was a Baptist preacher, and no doubt Wilson and the other men who were executed were done so by the code of Biblical justice, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

Clint E. Lacy-is a Southern author and activist, a Historian for the John T. Coffee Camp, Missouri Sons of Confederate Veterans and currently serves as an alderman for the City of Marble Hill, resides in the Ozark Foothills of Southeast Missouri.

Sources:

1. "Between Missourians: Ripley County in the Civil War" , Ponder, Ozark Watch Magazine , Vol. IV, No. 4, Spring 1991 a.Linzy Dudley: The Time of the War pgs. 1,15 1918

2. "Doniphan: No Man’s Land During the Civil War" T.L. Wright Jr. ,1929, Doniphan High School

3. Article entitled "First Settlers of Ripley County" found in the book "History and Families of Ripley County Missouri", Ripley County Historical Society

4. Kirby Ross post made August 14th ,2005 on the Missouri in the Civil War message board.

5. Ibid.

6. posted by Kirby Ross on Wednesday August 31’st, 2005, Missouri in the Civil War message board.

7. M. Jeff Thompson"This is the Story of the War Experiences of Brig. General M. Jeff Thompson", pg.103, Kent Library, Southeast Missouri State University

8. posted by Kirby Ross on Wednesday August 31’st, 2005, Missouri in the Civil War message board.

9. Personal correspondence from Ray Burson, Ripley County Historical Society entitled, "Jerry Ponder’s Sources for the Wilson Massacre And Other Tales"

10. Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War, Ripley County Library, Doniphan, Missouri

11. "War Hero Timothy Reeves wanted to be remembered as ‘good preecher’,Daily American Republic Newspaper

12. "This is the War Experiences of Brig. General M. Jeff Thompson", M. Jeff Thompson, Kent Library, Southeast Missouri State University, pgs. 21-22

13. Ibid

14. "The Legend of St. Francois County: Sam Hildebrand’s Confession", Chapter 6, Reprinted from the County Advertiser by Farmington News Printing Company September 26, 1979

15. "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson", Thompson, Kent Library, Southeast Missouri State University, pg.103

16. "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson", Thompson, Kent Library, Southeast Missouri State University, pg.104

17. "The Time of the War" by: Linzy Dudley as told to Charles Booker, 1918, pgs. 1,15 (document sent to me by Jerry Ponder shortly before his death)

18. "The Civil War in Ripley County Missouri", The Prospect News, pgs.27-28

19. "Twice a Month" magazine, Sept. 2’cd,1909 pgs. 27-28

20. Ibid.

21. Missouri State Legislators 1820-2000, information obtained from the Missouri Secretary of State office.

22. Information obtained from the U.S. Forestry Service Website entitled, "The History of the Irish Wilderness" found at the following internet web address in pdf format: Irish Wilderness Country.pdf also found in the War of the Rebellions, Official Records, Volumes XXII, Part 1. Page 744

23. Information obtained from the U.S. Forestry Service Website entitled, "The History of the Irish Wilderness" found at the following internet web address in pdf format: Irish Wilderness Country.pdf also found in the War of the Rebellions, Official Records, Volumes XXII, Part 1. Pages 746-747

24. Ibid.

25. Research conducted by author at the Stoddard County Civil War Cemetery, Bloomfield, Missouri

26. "The Military Record of Major James Wilson", compiled Willard S. Bacon, and found at the following internet web address: http://www.rootsweb.com/~molincol/misc/ms-military-record-wilson.htm and from Dr. Joseph Mudd’s notes for the publication , "The History of Lincoln County", Powell Memorial Library, Troy , Mo.

27. "Report of Brig. Gen. Thomas Ewing, jr., U. S. Army, Commanding District of Saint Louis. AUGUST 29-DECEMBER 2, 1864 Price’s Missouri Expedition.", Official Records, War of the Rebellions.

28. "No Heroes On Either Side", Ray Burson, The Prospect – News, Doniphan , Missouri, Wednesday, July 16, 2003

29. Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph O. Shelby, C. S. Army, Commanding Division. AUGUST 29-DECEMBER 2, 1864. Price’s Missouri Expedition.

30. "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson", M. Jeff Thompson, Kent State Library, Southeast Missouri State University, Pg. 155

31. "Confederate Heroines:120 Southern Women Convicted by Union Military Justice", Thomas Lowry, LSU Press, 2006 pgs. 7-8

32. "War of Vengeance: Acts of Retaliation Against Civil War POWs", Lonnie Speer, Stackpole Books, 2006 pgs. 1-8

33. "The Military Record of Major James Wilson", compiled Willard S. Bacon, and found at the following internet web address: http://www.rootsweb.com/~molincol/misc/ms-military-record-wilson.htm

34. The Ponder-Bradbury-Flanders Correspondence, Ozark Watch Magazine, Vol. IV, No. 4, Spring 1991/Vol. V, No.1, Summer 1991, Pg. 4.

© 2008 Southeast Missourian

On The Web: http://www.semissourian.com/article/20081226/BLOGS0142/812269977

Civil War in Ripley County:

http://sites.google.com/site/rcmacw/official-records/1863/1863-dec-23-25-pulliams


Wilson Massacre:

http://thelibrary.org/lochist/periodicals/ozarkswatch/ow404i.htm
http://sites.google.com/site/rcmacw/pulliam-springs-incident

Gratiot Street Prison

http://www.civilwarstlouis.com/gratiot/gratiot.htm - list of prisioners does not include Benjamin Lewis. None of the prisoners listed were captured 25 Dec 1863 in Ripley County.

All of the Lewises are on the roster for Price's Raid.

About Price's Raid: http://bobcivilwarhistory.blogspot.com/2010/01/on-margins-of-war-prices-raid.html


Enrolled in Confederate Army:

John and Andrew and Benjamin Lewis enlisted on the same day in Pocahontas, AR Dec 22, 1862, William had enlisted Oct 4 in Pocahontas, AR.

From the Official Record of the War of Rebellion

Christmas 1863 , Pulliam's Farm, Ripley County, Missouri

The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. ; Series 1 - Volume 22 (Part II), pages 749-750
PILOT KNOB, Mo., December 23, 1863. General Fisk: GENERAL: It is reported to me today that Centreville was attacked and captured yesterday by Reves, 200 strong, and that he immediately retreated south. I have a battalion on his trail today.

R. G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding Post. **** SAINT Louis, Mo., December 23, 1863. Col. R. G. WOODSON: I cannot see how Reves could get at Centreville without the knowledge of Captain Leeper. I can’t credit the report. You will at once organize an expedition that will go in search of Reves, and follow him. It seems to me that with proper vigor he might be exterminated or driven out of Southeastern Missouri. You have sufficient force to enable you to keep after him until he will trouble us no more.

CLINTON B. FISK, Brigadier General. **** Note.The expedition is already on the road. H. G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding. **** PILOT KNOB, Mo., December 23, 1863.

Lient. W. T. CLARKE, Aide-de.Camp: In answer to yours of this date, I have to state that at present I am unable to give many particulars. My information of the catastrophe at Centreville comes from a citizen living near. He states that Reves (estimated atfrom 200 to 400) came into Centreville yesterday about 2 o’clock, completely surprising the garrison, taking them all prisoners, and again immediately moved on to the south.

H G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding Post.* *** PILOT KNOB, Mo., December 24, 1863.

General FISK: Major Wilson, with all the effective force of the Third, is after Reves, about 200. My instructions are to follow him to hell, and get the prisoners back, at least. A few of them have come in. It is even so Company C is captured, excepting a few men. I hardly believed it when I telegraphed you yesterday. They were surprised, building stables. No light, a few scattering shots, and a few wounded; none killed. A boy, just reported says he was shot at; returned the fire with small shot, wounding a rebel; he escaped on foot. I have sent a reconnoitering party to Centreville to report the state of affairs there. I will know this evening. Had not I better go this evening?

H G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding Post. **** HEADQUARTERS SAINT LOUIS DISTRICT, Saint Louis, Mo., December 24, 1863.

Col. H. G. Woodson, Pilot Knob:

I am greatly mortified with the Centreville affair. Where were Captain [S. A. C.] Bartlett’s pickets? I fear that the most criminal neglect has allowed this disaster to come upon us. I trust that there will be no failure in wiping out the apparent disgrace. Take hold of the pursuit and extermination yourself.

CLINTON B. FISK, Brigadier General. ****

The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. ; Series 1 - Volume 22 (Part I ) Page 783-784

DECEMBER 23-25, 1863. Attack on Centreville, Mo., and pursuit of the Confederates, including skirmish (25th) at Pulliams.

REPORTS. No. 1. Maj. Oliver ID. Greene, Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Army. No. 2.Maj. James Wilson, Third Missouri State Militia Cavalry.

No. 1. Report of Maj. Oliver D. Greene, Assistant Adjutant General, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI, Saint Louis, December 28, 1863.

GENERAL: An entire company of the Third Missouri State Militia was captured at Centreville, Reynolds County, by guerrillas, under Reves, on the 23d instant. Major Wilson, of the Third Missouri State Militia, followed the party, and, at 3 p. m. Christmas day, he overtook and attacked; killed and wounded 35, captured 150 prisoners (13 officers), all equipage and ammunition, and 125 horses; recaptured all prisoners. Our loss, 1 killed and 8 wounded.

OLIVER D. GREENE, Assistant Adjutant General. Major General SCHOFIELD, West Point, N. Y No. 2. Report of Maj. James Wilson, Third Missouri State Militia Cavalry. HDQRS: THIRD MISSOURI STATE MILITIA CAVALRY, Pilot Knob, Mo., December 30, 1863.

SIR: In compliance with your orders of the 23d instant, I left Pilot Knob, in command of 200 men, about 10 a. in. December~23, 1863, arriving at Patterson at 9 p. m. Left there at daylight on the 24th, and encamped at Long’s at 9 p. m., having traveled 35miles. Marched again at 3 a. m. 25th instant; passed through Doniphan, taking a southwesterly direction toward the Arkansas line. Eight miles from Doniphan, I captured 2 pickets; 2 miles farther I captured one other post, and still 2 miles farther on came upon a rolling picket or patrol, and run them off of the road, capturing 1 and compelling him to lead us to the camp of Reves.* Arriving at the camp, I divided my men into two columns, and charged upon them with my whole force. The enemy fired, turned, and threw down their arms and fled, with the exception of 30 or 35, and they were riddled with bullets or .pierced through with the saber almost instantly. The enemy lost in killed about 30; wounded mortally, 3; slightly, 2; total killed and wounded

James Wilson, Commanding Third Missouri State Militia Cavalry.
Col. H. G. Woodson, Commanding Post, Pilot Knob, Mo.

At Pulliams, 17 miles southwest of Doniphan.



HEAD QUARTERS POST,
Pilot Knob, Mo, Jan 1st, 1864 Gen. C.B. Fisk, Comdg. St. Louis District
Sir,
I will enclose Capt Leeper’s comments on some of the prisoners, sent here.
For your information, and will also have Lt. Macklind send a copy of the same to the Pro. Mar. Gen. for such action as you and he think necessary.

I prefer sending them to St. Louis to keeping them here, for further inquiry, for several reasons, 1st as they know every foot of ground from here to Central Arkansas. Escape would be much easier from this point. My guard house is so open and facilities for warming it so poor, I cannot keep them here during such severe weather, without extreme suffering, and possibly Capt. L. carries his personal feelings of animosity towards his potential enemies a little too far, but still as he has personal knowledge of nearly all these men, I think his information entitled to considerable weight. You will find his comments confined to two companies that of Reeves and Cunningham, who are mostly Missourians, the others from Arkansas, Israel or Hardens, he says he knows but little about, Some others have violated their oath and several were wearing Federal uniforms.

Most Respectfully, ( )
Col 3rd Cav. Comg. Post


Iron County Missouri Deed

transcribed by
Notha Stevens


Iron County, Missouri Deeds

This indenture made and entered into this thirtieth day of March in the year our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight by and between Benjamin Lewis and Maoma his wife of the County of Iron and State of Missouri of the first part and Joseph Bollinger of the County of Madison and State of Missouri aforesaid of the second part witnesseth: that the said party of the first part for and in consideration of the sum of Forty nine Dollars and twelve cents to them fully paid by the said party of the second part the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged have granted bargained sold and conveyed and by these present do grant bargain Sell and convey unto the said party of the second part the following tracts or parcels of land situate lying and being insaid County of Iron to wit: the South half of the North west quarter, the East half of the South west quarter and the west half of the South East quarter of Section twenty nine on Township thirty two north of Range three East containing two hundred
forever and we the said party of the first part hereby convenant and agree to and with the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns that ____ warrant and forever defend the title to the said Lands and appurtenances against the claim or claims of all persons -
Benjamin X Lewis (seal)
Maoma X Lewis (seal)

State of Missouri
County of Iron
Be it Remembered that Benjamin Lewis and Naoma his wife who are personally known to the undersigned a Justice of the Peace within the aforesaid County to be the persons whose names are Subscribed to the foregoing Deed as parties hereto this day appearedbefore me and acknowledged that they executed and delivered the same as their voluntary act and Deed for the uses and purposes therein contained and the said Maoma being by me made acquainted with the contents of said Deed acknowledged and relinquished her Dower in the Real Estate therein mentioned freely and without compulsion or undue influence of her said husband.
Given under my hand this 30th day of March 1858
Wm. Suits Justice of the Peace
Filed for Record may the 18th 1858 recorded may the 28th A.D. 1858
John Edwards Clerk


By J. Huff, D C

Jerry Ponder's book: A History of the 15th Missouri Calvary Regiment, C.S.A.

He has lists of:

Those captured at Wilson's Massacre - includes Benjamin Lewis

Unit Roster of the 15th Cav. showing - note - author states that this is an all encompassing list...names may be listed in more than one company, but as need arose men were moved, often promoted:

• Benjamin, John, William Lewis. Andrew Louis - all in Company A. William Chitwood and Sampson Lewis in Co. B.
• Co. C: John Lewis - 2nd Lieutenent, D. Lewis, William Lewis
• Co. M: Andrew Lewis

Muster Roll Reeves' Company - Missouri independent Scouts, CSA Aug 1 - 30, 1863

• 57. Lewis, Benjamin - Pvt. - age 39 - no status
• 58. Lewis, Andrew - Pvt - age 21 - detailed to hospital, Little Rock
• 59. Lewis, John - Pvt - age 33 - Detailed with Capt. Cunninham
• 60. Lewis, William - Pvt - age 30 - Left sick at Little Rock August 9

Muster Roll Reeves' Company - Missouri independent Scouts, CSA Dec 31, 1863 - Feb 29, 1864, 1863

• Lewis, Benjamin - no longer listed
• 32. Lewis, Andrew - Pvt - with Captain Reeves recruiting
• 33. Lewis, John - Pvt - with Captain Reeves recruiting
• 34. Lewis, William - Pvt - with Captain Reeves recruiting


Ozarks Watch Vol. IV, No. 4, Spring 1991 / Vol. V, No. 1, Summer 1991


Between Missourians Civil War in Ripley County
Based on Jerry Ponder, "The Wilson Massacre," and "The Burning of Doniphan," previously unpublished articles submitted to OzarksWatch.


Part I: The Wilson Massacre

An unusual group assembled at the Pulliam farm in southwestern Ripley County, Missouri for Christ-mas in 1863. Nearly 150 officers and men of the Missouri State Guard's 15th Cavalry Regiment (Con-federate); at least sixty civilians, many of them women andchildren; and 102 prisoners, officers and men of Company C, Missouri State Militia (Union).

The civilians were family members, friends, and neighbors. Confederate "hosts" and Union "guests" were all Missourians; but they were divided by perhaps the bitterest of all enmities--those of civil war.

The day's activity was to begin with religious services conducted by the Reverend Colonel Timothy Reeves, commanding officer of the 15th Cavalry and a Baptist preacher of Ripley County. Then would follow Christmas dinner in the afternoon. The group at Pulliam' s farm numbered above three hundred at the very least, if the figures on the record are to be believed. It was too many for a mere religious service and holiday dinner. Pulliam's was one of Reeves's regimental camps.1

What began as a festive occasion ended in horror and tragedy. As the celebrants sat at dinner, their arms stacked, they were surprised by two companies of the Union Missouri State Militia, more than 200 mounted cavalrymen. Only those guarding the prisoners, about 35 men, were armed. The Militia attacked without warning, shooting into the crowd, attacking with sabers, and killing at least thirty of the Confederate men instantly and mortally wounding several more. According to local tradition, many--perhapsmost---of the civilians were killed or wounded as well.2

The Union force had no casualties, suggesting the possibility that the Confederates may not have fired a shot. The survivors--some 112 officers and men, with their horses, arms, and equipment--were captured and taken out of the War for good, some to die in prison. Colonel Reeves, however, escaped.3

The official report of the Union Commander, Major James Wilson, confirms the quick, bloody character of the event: "I divided my men into two columns and charged upon them with my whole force. The enemy fired, turned, and threw down their arms and fled, with the exception of 30 or 35 and they were riddled with bullets or pierced through with the saber almost instantly." Wilson's account did not explain why, if the enemy fired, no bullet shot at point-blank range found its mark; nor, if the rest "fled," why they were all captured. Neither did Wilson mention the presence of civilians, nor harm done to them.4

The Union force was a quick-moving raiding party, sent out on December 23 from the Union stronghold at Pilot Knob in Iron County, some eighty miles to the north. Their purpose: recapture of the Union prisoners. They retired the next morning taking the freed personnel of Company C, MSM, and the new Confederate captives of the 15th Cavalry, MSG.

The stunned survivors were left to bury the dead and reflect on the carnage. About half of those killed, both soldiers and civilians, were taken to Doniphan and buried in the Old Doniphan Cemetery south of the courthouse. Tradition is that the graves were dug by a few Negro men, and the bodies were wrapped for burial by town women. Other bodies were buried near where they fell in the Ponder and Union Grove Cemeteries .5

In Ripley County, well seasoned to the war, the incident was no doubt taken in stride. But it was not forgotten, and not forgiven. It remains in the collective memory as the Wilson Massacre, memorializing in infamy the commanding officer of the Union force. It became part of the vengeful guerrilla warfare in the eastern Ozarks.

The Wilson Massacre exemplifies the fact that the Civil War in Missouri was often a war between Missourians themselves. Major James Wilson was from Lincoln County on the Mississippi River just above St. Louis. The Union State Militia and the Confederate State Guard were both Missouri forces drawn from and fighting in behalf of the divided populous. The events leading up to the Wilson Massacre provide insight into that internal war.

Union sentiment was strong in St. Louis, especially among Germans and Irish. It was also strong in the river counties where Germans were numerous, and across much of the Missouri Ozarks. Confederate sentiment was strong in the Arkansas Ozarks; and Missouri counties close to the state line tended to have more Confederate sentiment than those farther north. Especially was this true in the southeast Missouri Ozarks.

Ripley County was on the Arkansas border, and its historic trade and travel routes ran south to Arkansas and the lower Mississippi Valley. Ripley County was a Confederate place. The Pulliam farm was but a few miles from the state line.

[14]

Union control of St. Louis and of Jefferson Barracks had been crucial at the outset of the war, in part because two Ozarks railroads radiated from there. The one to the southwest terminated a hundred miles out near Rolla. The one to the south, the Iron Mountain Road, terminated some eighty miles out at Pilot Knob in Iron County. The Federals established strong points at the ends of those lines, and their spheres of military influence radiated from them. The Wilson Massacre was one of many events in the continuing struggle between those Union strongholds and the Confederate-sympathizing countryside.

The unusual, and unusually brutal, characteristic of that war was not just that military lines were ill-defined to non-existent but that the citizens themselves, the local residents, were peculiarly involved. The case of Ripley County illustrates the point.

In the summer of 1861 practically every man in Ripley and neighboring Missouri counties answered the call of Governor Claiborne Fox Jackson and joined the Missouri State Guard. Jackson was a secessionist and the State Guard was considered the legitimate state force by those who supported secession and the Confederate cause. One of the principal Ripley officers was the famous Timothy Reeves, whose story follows.

After their six months enlistments expired, those of the State Guard interested in extended soldiering join, joined the regular Confederate army and left for other battle areas, especially those east of the Mississippi. Some units manned defensive positions in southeast Missouri for a time on a line New Madrid-Bloomfield-Doniphan-Greenville-Alton. In Ripley County, they built and manned a fortified position, Fort Currentview, at the state line near the strategic Current River.

By 1862 the demand for manpower elsewhere had drained these Confederate positions. Ripley and adjacent counties were left without adequate defense. In this situation local militia began to organize. They considered themselves primarily defenders of their homes and families. But by the North they were termed irregulars or guerrillas, outlaw units .6

In Ripley County two such units were formed. The Reverend Timothy Reeves, Baptist minister in the county seat of Doniphan, raised Reeves's Independent Company of Missouri Scouts, which was attached to the command of Confederate General John Sappington Marmaduke, a Missourian from Saline County. Men joined from Stoddard County on the east to Oregon County on the west, and north toward the Union fort at Pilot Knob. Reeves was able to keep Marmaduke apprised of practically all Union troop movements in the region. His command were also charged with helping maintain civil order, a job he took with extreme seriousness.7

The second unit in Ripley was raised by Reeve's neighbor, William Righter. Righter, concerned that Reeves was often absent, raised a company whose express purpose was defending local citizens against Union raids or outlaw activity. Righter soon found himself with a much larger job. What began as one company grew to several from Ripley County and one or more from each county in the region. Righter' s troops were strictly citizen soldiers who refused to be sent to service elsewhere. They would fight only to defend their home area.8

Righter's commission came from Missouri State Guard Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson. Thompson had failed to receive a regular CSA commission, despite repeated attempts. Consequently, Righter denied in later years that he was ever a Confederate colonel,and had been only a Missouri colonel, because Thompson had the power only to issue a Missouri commission.9

Righter and Reeves did a creditable job of maintaining local order. When large Northern units raided, they of necessity adopted guerrilla tactics of fight and retreat, returning after the Yankees were gone. Usually they retreated to Confederate strongholds in Arkansas; but they also had some safe havens locally or in the swamps of the nearby Bootheel lowland.

Righter was not safe on one occasion in Arkansas, however. He was captured along with Jeff Thompson during a Union raid on Pocohontas, some thirty miles down Current River from Doniphan, in July 1863. He went to Gratiot Prison in St. Louis, was paroled, and spent the rest of the war in the city reading law. He consequently missed the fateful Christmas massacre. 10



[15]

After the Thompson-Righter capture, the Reverend Reeves combined his Independent Scouts with Righter's cavalry, and took command of a united 15th Missouri Cavalry Regiment. Together with remnants of Missouri units that had fought in Arkansas (Battle of Helena, July 1863) and many new recruits, Reeves's new regiment had as many as twenty full companies--actually a brigade-strength command. Colonel Reeves's brother William, from neighboring Butler County and also a Baptist minister, was his adjutant. 11

The county-based companies under Reeves were widely spread; no doubt command was difficult. Mostly farmers and merchants, the men were mobilized only when necessary for defense of the region. However, permanent posts were maintained: at Doniphan, the fords of Current River, Fort Currentview, along main roads, and elsewhere.12

The immediate cause of the Wilson Massacre was a series of events at Centerville, Reynolds County. Centerville Courthouse was some sixty miles north of Doniphan and twenty-five southwest of Pilot Knob. Late in 1863, Centerville was captured by the Union 3rd Cavalry from Pilot Knob. Company C was left as garrison. On December 21, while engaged in building stables on the courthouse grounds, they were surprised and surrounded by Company N of Reeves's 15th Missouri Cavalry, under command of Captain Jesse Pratt, before the war the Baptist minister of Centerville. Company N was composed of farmers and merchants of Reynolds County. Probably Pratt and the Reeves brothers, also Baptist preachers, were long-time acquaintances. That Pratt was accorded the honor of recapturing his hometown was not accidental.

Captured were 102 Union men with their horses. Pratt took them south to Ripley County with a small group, leaving most of his men to garrison Centerville. He presented the prisoners to Reeves at Pulliam's on Christmas morning, and joined his fellows of the regiment for the day's festivities.13

One Union soldier had been allowed to escape at Centerville, doubtless to carry news of the event back to Pilot Knob. Reaction there was swift. Colonel R.G. Woodson, commander of the 3rd Missouri, ordered two mounted cavalry companies under Major James Wilson to pursue Pratt. They left Pilot Knob mid-morning on the twenty-third.

Wilson's force rode swiftly, rising in the darkness of the twenty-fifth to be on the road at 3:00 AM. They passed through Doniphan that morning, and continued west toward Ponder, capturing pickets as they went, and descended on Colonel Reeves's group and prisoners just as they were eating Christmas dinner.14

Wilson probably was able to follow the tracks of the captured Union Company C and their guard. One hundred and fifty horses would leave a trail in December mud. However he accomplished it, he went to Reeves like an arrow to its target. His report said, "...eight miles from Doniphan, I captured 2 pickets; 2 miles farther (and only some five miles from Reeves) I captured another post, and still 2 miles farther we came upon a rolling picket on patrol and ran them off the road, capturing 1 and compelling him to lead us to the camp of Reeves." The "rolling picket" who escaped obviously was unable to bring a warning to Reeves in time. 15

During the Battle of Pilot Knob the following month, Major James Wilson was captured by elements of General Shelby's command. Shelby ordered an immediate military court for Wilson and two others captured with him. Major Wilson and the two soldiers were found guilty of murder for the Christmas Day, 1863, massacre and were ordered to be shot to death. No record has been found to prove who shot Wilson and his men, but the consensus is that members of the 15th Missouri Cavalry Regiment made up the firing squad. No doubt there were plenty of volunteers for the job. After the war ended Colonel Reeves was charged with the act, but later released. 16

The massacre site has gone by many names since: Battle Hollow, Battleground Hollow, and Battlefield Hollow. It is no longer listed on maps, but residents of southwest Ripley County know the location and story. The action has become known as The Wilson Massacre. It was the bloodiest day of the war for Ripley County.

Part II: The Burning of Doniphan

On September 19, 1864, some one hundred mounted Union Cavalry burned the town of Doniphan. It was an action associated with the beginnings of Price's Raid, which culminated in the Battle of Pilot Knob the following month. But the torching of Doniphan was primarily an act of vengeance, without military significance, and was in effect an afterclap of the Wilson Massacre ten months earlier. It was a measure of the hatred the Yankees had for Timothy Reeves and his "guerrilla band," as the 15th Cavalry Regiment was known.

Later Union accounts of events in Ripley County that September focused on the bloody skirmishes connected with Price's invasion of Missouri. They ignored or covered up the burning. Only 39 years later, when a Union veteran participant, William Nevin, wrote a more complete account, did the Northern written record show what Ripley Countians had known all along. 17

By mid 1864 the war was going badly for the Confederacy in Missouri and Arkansas. Southern commanders decided upon a bold stroke: an invasion from Arkansas of eastern Missouri, aimed at St. Louis. It would also rally support for the Southern cause and recruit new troops, by then desperately needed. Major General Sterling Price, CSA, from Chariton County, Missouri, would command a three-division strike force. The intrepid Brigadier General Jo Shelby, CSA, of Lafayette County, Missouri, would command one ofthem. Independent units like Reeves's regiment would be attached to Price's force for the operation.

[16]

But the burning of Doniphan had other causes. In late August or early September of 1864 a party of a half dozen Union soldiers, Illinoisans paroled in Arkansas, were making their way from Little Rock to St. Louis. They were on foot, having given their "parole" (i.e. their word) not to fight again until officially exchanged. They were hot, ragged, tired, and hungry. When they reached Doniphan they went to the hotel and asked for a meal and lodging.

The hotel keeper was one Lemuel Kittrel, a Confederate veteran forced to return home because of wounds. His brother-in-law was Confederate Colonel Willis Ponder. Kittrel was a successful businessman and merchant, an ardent Confederate, and, like most Ripley Countians, still enraged by the Christmas massacre.

Kittrel turned the Union men out unfed and unhoused. They slept that night in a field north of Doniphan, doubtless nursing their grudge against rebel Missourians.18 They were to receive the same treatment as they continued north; and by the time they reached the Federal garrison at Patterson, some fifty miles away in Wayne County, they were barefoot, almost naked, and nearly starved. The officer of the group, a Colonel G.W. Mitchell, is reported to have requested of the 3rd Cavalry at Pilot Knob that theybum the town of Doniphan if they ever had the opportunity. 19

Mitchell and other informants apprised the Union command of Price's impending invasion, including the fact that Jo Shelby's division planned to head north on a line through Ripley County. On September 18, a Lieutenant Eric Pape was sent south from Pilot Knob with a hundred mounted men to determine Shelby's location and strength. According to the 1903 Nevin account, he also had been ordered by Major James Wilson to bum Doniphan. Pape's company arrived in the town about five o'clock the morning of September19.20

A company of Reeves's 15th Missouri Cavalry Regiment, all Ripley men, were deployed over the county as an advance party of Price's army. (The 15th Cavalry Regiment was by now attached to Price's command and integrated into his plans for the invasion.) About 40 of them were in Doniphan that morning. Pape attacked the little force three times, after which they retreated south on the road to Kittrel's Mill, burning the bridge over Quick Creek behind them. Pape's company crossed Current River at the Doniphan ford and rode south to the Arkansas border, the Confederates retreating in front of them. Pape then returned to Doniphan about noon.

William Nevin, who was a soldier in Pape's company, went to the home of a widow Lowe, and asked for a noon meal. (His companion was Sergeant Steakly, one of the diarists of the action.) Though the widow's husband, Colonel Aden Lowe, had been killed at Fredericktown, Madison County, in 1861, she agreed to feed them. Just as dinner was ready, she looked out the window and saw the town ablaze. She sensed instantly what was happening and turned to her guests, beseeching them to intercede to have her house spared. Of all the buildings in Doniphan, only the Lowe house and the Methodist Church (ironically built in 1847 by Lemuel Kittrel) escaped the flames that day. Nevin also reported that the smaller Confederate force returned and attacked the Yankees while they were firing the town, but were driven off by the superior Union numbers and the Federal repeating rifles.21

[17]

Jerry Ponder at the site of old road down which Wilson's cavalry charged into Reeves's encampment, background. Behind fringe of trees is Mill Branch of Fourche Creek. Steep wooded hillside beyond might have been escape route for survivors. OzarksWatch photo.
Pape's Yankees withdrew east and north toward Butler County, stopping to burn every house and outbuilding along the road. (Nevin, however, wrote that no houses were destroyed outside of Doniphan.)22

General Jo Shelby, leading the westernmost of Price's three divisions just south of Ripley, doubtless heard of the burning and hastened to Doniphan with a force of cavalry, arriving at the town in the afternoon. He was furious. He had friends and relatives there, and had recruited in the vicinity several times with good results. He dispatched 150 men under Lieutenant Colonel Hector Johnson to run down Pape's company. They were able to follow the line of destruction.

Price, traveling farther east with the central division of his command, was perhaps as close to Pape as Shelby. Upon hearing of the burning, he, too dispatched a force to chase the Yankees. His adjutant' s report later described witnessing women and children going through the still smoking ashes of their houses and barns, searching for food.23

Johnson's pursuing force from Shelby's division found Pape's company in the dark of night on the ridge back of Ponder' s Mill, near present Fairdealing. Nevin wrote that Pape' s men could hear the Confederates getting into position in the darkness; bur Pape, doubtless dead tired, did not take it to be a serious threat.

It was serious. At daybreak, Johnson attacked. The repeating rifles held him off for a time; but when the force from Price's central division arrived, the Yankees were overwhelmed. Forty-seven of the original hundred were killed; the rest fled into the woods.24

Ripley County spent the remainder of the war without significant intervention from Union troops. Doniphan, an important town before the war, rebuilt when the war ended. But it was well over twenty years before it reached its pre-war size and never again was the regional center of importance it had been. After the war a small group of Union soldiers under the command of Captain W.A. Naylor was sent to Doniphan to govern the county and appoint officials to act as county commissioners. Naylor became a leading citizen of Ripley; the present town of Naylor is named for him.

Many former Northern troops moved to Ripley County after the War, and while trouble continued through the 1870s between the two factions, by the mid-1880s little trace remained of the war. It was many, many years however, before a Republican would be elected to office in Ripley County. As far as can be learned, not one of the survivors of

Lieutenant Pape's command that burned Doniphan was ever in Ripley County again.

Notes for "Between Missourians"

1 Compiled service record of Major James Wilson, Record Group 94, National Archives, Washington, D.C.M. Jeff Thompson, The Civil War Reminiscences of General M. Jeff Thompson, ed. by Donal J. Stan-ton, Goodwin F. Berquist, and Paul C. Bowers (Dayton, Ohio: Momingside, 1988), 16-17, 65-68. Jerry Ponder, The History of Ripley County, Missouri (Doniphan Missouri: Ponder Books, 1987), 27, 58. War Department correspondence file for 1863, National Archives microfilm publication M1064. T.L. Wright, Jr.,"Doniphan--No Man' s Land During the Civil War," 1929, Doniphan Public Library, Doniphan, Missouri.

2 ponder, History of Ripley County, p. 52.

3 One of the captives was Lieutenant Amos T. Ponder who had served in the 9th Missouri Infantry Regiment, but had resigned due to illness. Though a civilian at the time, he was treated as a military captive. Another, Elijah Dalton, was home on leave from the 9th Missouri. He subsequently died in the Federal prison at Alton, Illinois. Compiled service record of First Lieutenant Amos F. Ponder, Sr., Record Group 94, National Archives; St. Louis Prison records, National Archives microfilm publication M598-0072. Compiled service record of Private Elijah Dalton, Record Group 94, National Archives; Alton, Illinois Prison records, National Archives microfilm publication M598-0014.

4 Report of Major James Wilson to Colonel Richard G. Woodson, December 30, 1863, in United States War Department, The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies (130 vols., Washington DC, 1880-1902), Series 1, XXXIV, Pt. l, 784. Hereafter cited as OR., All citations are from Series 1.

5 Interview with Mrs. Wash Harris by Dr. John Hume, 1889; Jean Ponder, "Doniphan During the Civil War," 1950, Doniphan Public Library.

6 M. Jeff Thompson, Civil War Reminiscences, 16-17, 65-68.

7 Letters of Captain Timothy Reeves to Brigadier General John S. Marmaduke, November 14, 1862 and June 11,1863, Library of Congress, Washington DC; reports of Captain Timothy Reeves to Colonel John Q. Burbridge, May 31, 1863, and to "Colonel Commanding" at Batesville, Arkansas, August 22, 1863, in "Loose Military Records," National Archives.

8 Address of Captain W.C.S. Lackey to a meeting of Ripley County Confederate veterans in 1901, a newspaper clipping in the Doniphan Public Library, Doniphan, Missouri.

9 W. R. Ponder, "Colonel William H. Righter," Twice-A-Month Magazine, (St. Louis), September 2, 1909, pp. 5, 6, 16.

[18]
10 Thompson, Reminiscences of M. Jeff Thompson, 202-210; Ponder, "Colonel William H. Righter;" St. Louis prison records, National Archives microfilm publication M598-0072.

11 Confederate Organizations--Missouri, a microfilm publication of the United States Army Historical Unit, Washington, DC. Letter of Francis Tate to Jerry Ponder, 1987; report of Captain Abijah Johns to Colonel Richard G. Woodson, February 28, 1864, OR, Pt. 1, 154. By these events, Reeves seems to have advanced in rank from captain to colonel.

12 One battalion-sized unit withdrew to Coon Island in the lowlands of eastern Butler County. Them, surrounded by swamps, they carried on almost a normal life even during the war, and returned home after it ended. Their commander, George Thannisch, was killed from ambush January 1864, the month after the Christmas Massacre, by troops of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment from Pilot Knob. Their report of "Captain Thannisch and two soldiers" was subsequently changed to read "three bushwhackers." Personal communication from Francis Tate to Jerry Ponder regarding Captain George Thannisch, 1987.

13 personal communication from James E. Bell to Jerry Ponder, 1987; historical information at the Reynolds County Courthouse, Centerville, Missouri.

14 Report of Major James Wilson to Colonel Richard G. Woodson, December 30, 1864, OR, XXII, Pt. 1,784; interview with Mrs. Wash Harris by Dr. John Hume, October 1889, Missouri Historical Society, St. Louis.

15 Colonel R.G. Woodson wrote his superior, General Fish, as follows: "Official dispatches from Major Wilson inform me that he attacked Reeves seventeen miles southwest of Doniphan, Ripley County, Missouri, about three o'clock Christmas Day; killed and wounded 35 of the enemy, captured 115 prisoners, including 13 Commissioned Officers, with all their equipment, ammunition and campage and 125 horses; also recaptured every man of Company C, captured at Centerville with their arms and campage. Wilson says that the 3rd behaved splendidly, officers and men." Daily Missouri Democrat, St. Louis, December 29, 1863.

Wilson's report to Woodson is.as follows: "Pilot Knob, Missouri, December 30, 1863, To: Colonel R.G. Woodson, Commanding Post Pilot Knob, Missouri. Sir: In compliance with your orders of the 23rd instant, I left Pilot Knob, in command of 200 men, about 10:00 AM December 23, 1863, arriving at Patterson at 9:00 PM. Left there at daylight on the 24th and encamped at Long's at 9:00 PM, having traveled 35 miles. Marched again at 3:00 AM 25th instant; passed through Doniphan, taking a southwesterly direction towards the Arkansas line. Eight miles from Doniphan, I captured 2 pickets; 2 miles further I captured one other post, and still 2 miles further we came upon a rolling picket on patrol and ran them off the road, capturing 1 and compel

ling him to lead us to the camp of Reeves. Arriving at the Camp, I divided my men into two columns and charged upon them with my whole force. The enemy fired, turned, and threw down their arms and fled, with the exception of 30 or 35 and they were riddledwith bullets or pierced with the saber almost instantly. The enemy lost and killed about 30; wounded mortally 3, slightly 2, total killed and wounded 35. Prisoners captured 112; horses, besides those of Company C, 75; also their arms, ammunition and campequipage. On morning of 26th, I started for Pilot Knob, arriving here about 4:00 PM on the 29th of December, 1863. I cannot speak in too high terms of praise of the officers and men under my Command. There was no loss on our side in killed or wounded. James Wilson. Commanding, Third State Militia, Major James Wilson to Colonel Richard G. Woodson, December 30, 1863, OR, XXII, 784.

16 Cyrus A. Peterson, "The Capture and Murder of Major James Wilson," January 26, 1906, Pike County Historical Society, Bowling Green, Missouri.

17 Sergeant James C. Steakley, "The Story of Price's Raid," Thomas Ewing, Jr., papers, Library of Congress, Washington, DC. Letter from William Nevin to Cyrus A. Peterson, 1903, Ewing papers. Official reports are lacking and few participant accounts agreeon factual details regarding the military action at the town and the burning. Two Union sergeants later published a"diary" which obstinately provided only a biased account, failing to mention the burning. Most writings were based on those accounts until publication of the 1903 Nevins letter.

18 "Lemuel Kittrell," Genealogical Society of Butler County, Missouri, Area Footprints (August-November 1990), 91; Jerry Ponder and Eldon Dow Vandiver, The Family of Abner Ponder (Doniphan, Missouri: Ponder Books, 1989), 82, 96, 176, 305. One report had it that Kittrell had earlier poisoned the food of Union men eating in his hotel.

19 Same Rowe, "My Recollection of the Events Leading Up to, During and Following the Battle of Pilot Knob," n.d., Ewing papers; letter from William Nevin to Cyrus A. Peterson, 1903, Ewing papers.

20 Ibid.; an undated newspaper clipping from The Prospect (Doniphan, Missouri), Doniphan Public Library. Nevin to Peterson, 1903 Ewing papers. Papes men were drawn from companies O, I, and K, 3rd MSM, and Company JA, 47th Missouri Infantry Regiment. All were mounted.

21 M. Jeff Thompson, Reminiscences; Wright, "Doniphan--No Man's Land"; letter of William Nevin to Cyrus Peterson, 1903, Ewing papers. Most descriptions of this action are confused. Sergeant James Steakley's account in the Ewing papers mentions a bridge across the Current River which was allegedly destroyed by Confederate troops, but no bridge existed at this location until 1899. Not even a ferry operated there until 1867. William Nevin states that the bridge was on the road to Kittrell's Mill, which indicates that a small bridge spanned Quick Creek on the south edge of Doniphan. The road passed Kittrell's Mill about one mile south of Doniphan and continued down the east side of the Current River to Indian Ford, which was the location where General Sterling Price and General James B. Fagan's division crossed the river and encamped on the night of September 19, 1864. Price and Fagan marched from Indian Ford to Martinsburg by a secondary road. The Butterfield Stage used the Kittrell's Mill route and Indi

[19]

22 Letter of William Nevin to Cyrus A. Peterson, 1903, Ewing papers; Benjamin LaBree, The Confederate Soldier in the Civil War (Louisville, Kentucky: Courier-Journal Job Printing Co., 95), 286.

23 L.A. MacLean, "Price's Army Daily Journal," September 20, 1864, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

24 Steakiey, "The Story of Price's Raid," Simon U. Branstetter diary, and letter of William Nevin to Cyrus A. Peterson, all in the Ewing papers; Major James Wilson to Brigadier General Thomas Ewing, Jr., September 20, 1864, OR, XLI, Pt. 1,454; Morning Reports, Various Missouri Posts and Units, Microfilm Series 617, Reel 180, Numbers 1040, 1066, 1077, and 1531, United States Army Historical Unit, Washington DC; War Department correspondence file for 1864, National Archives microfilm publication M 1064; Genealogical Society of Butler County, Butler County, Missouri II (Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Taylor Publishing Co., 1988), 8-9.

Two of the Confederates were killed and four were wounded. The dead were buried at the site, the Yankees in a mass grave on the west side of the Military Road, and the Confederates in individual graves on the east side. The Confederate site became a cemetery which was used well into the present century, known as The Military Cemetery.

Editor's Post Script

Writers in addition to Ponder have noted the final Reeves-Wilson encounter. Excerpts from three of them follow. All appear to be authoritatively documented:

--From Joseph Conan Thompson, "The Great-Little Battle of Pilot Knob. (Part II)," Missouri Historical Quarterly, April, 1989,283 n:

After their capture [at Pilot Knob], Major Wilson, Captain Dinger and the others were led to [nearby] Ironton. There they assembled with the other prisoners. After being stripped to the waist and forced to relinquish their boots, the prisoners marched barefooted behind General Fagan's column to a farm located 10 miles west of Union and 15 miles southwest of Washington [in Franklin County, some 70 miles north of Ironton]. While on the farm, Confederate Colonel Tim Reeves singled out Major Wilson and five other men, chosen at random, and had them executed by firing squad. All of the others were paroled. No explanation for the major's murder has ever been offered.

--From Michael Fellman, Inside War: The Guerrilla Conflict in Missouri During the American Civil War (New York: Oxford University Press, 1989), p. 182:

Union Major Wilson died a good death at the hands of Reeves' guerrilla band....Two southern men on their way back...to their homes [perhaps among those paroled in Franklin County?] stopped off at Mr. Alexander's house in Greenville [Wayne County] and reported Major Wilson's honorable death. At the execution Reeves said to Wilson, "'Major, you are a brave man--but you never showed my men quarter.' At the execution Major Wilson himself commanded: 'ready, aim, fire!' Those two men," Alexander wrote, "though [Wilson's enemies], praised his bravery."

Fellman proposes that a"central metaphor of war [is] the great hunt," which could be stretched to include war by stealth-----common in guerrilla warfare: There were few opportunities for courageous and manly engagement with an enemy who was almost always unseen, who rarely came out to fight in the serried ranks of storybook wars. In such a nasty war [as guerrilla war in Missouri], it was unusual to look the enemy in the face, to discover in him the manly foe truly worthy of your honorable battle. Still, if you did capture the enemy, you would execute him and want him to die nobly; and if you were captured, you would be shot and would want to die an honorable death. That was the fit end of the great hunt.

Thus Fellman' s characterization of Wilson' s end as a"good death," and an"honorable death," and his context for the witnesses' report to Mr. Alexander of Reeves's chivalrous salute to Wilson and the condemned man's command of the firing squad.

--From Andy Collins, "To the Victor Belong the Spoils," Missouri Historical Quarterly, January, 1986, pp. 191,192:

As a result of the Battle of Pilot Knob, Colonel Tim Reves [sic] acquired the eternal hatred of the Union forces in Southeast Missouri. According to witnesses, Major James Wilson and six of his men...had allegedly been turned over to Tim Reves, who...had them shot. On October 24 (1864), the bodies...were found by a farmer near Washington, Missouri.

[20]

Collins writes that at the close of the war 7454 Confederate regulars and irregulars surrendered at Wittsburg and Jacksonport, Arkansas. "Of this number,'' he writes, "the Union forces refused to parole only one man. This man was Colonel Timothy Reves." But he was soon able to return home nevertheless.

In 1867, [Reeves] was back in Ripley County, when...he performed two marriage ceremonies in his capacity as a minister. The rest of his life seems to have been that of a semi-itinerant minister. In October, 1867, he married a Carter County widow and...officiated at marriages [there] from 1867-1869. Marriage books from Butler County show Reeves as a minister there in 1877....His short obituary in the Doniphan Prospect News (1885) did not even mention his Civil War exploits. (pages 194, 195)

Jerry Ponder is a retired military intelligence officer, a Ripley County native, and author of writings on the history of that area. His ancestors were participants in the events described in this article.

[Editor's note: Mr. Ponder and OzarksWatch are grateful for the advice and assistance of Mr. John Bradbury, Western Historical Manuscripts Collection, Rolla, in the preparation of the following article.]



THE WILSON MASSACRE
“The Story of Union Brutality in the Southeast Missouri Ozarks” By: Clint E. Lacy

One of the most controversial pieces of work that late author and historian Jerry Ponder wrote was his account of the Wilson Massacre in Ripley County, Missouri; which occurred on December 25th 1863. On December 23rd, 1863, members of the 15th Missouri Cavalry, CSA, attacked and captured nearly 100 Union prisoners at Centerville in Reynolds County, Missouri; burning the courthouse down before they left. Ponder wrote that:

"An unusual group assembled at the Pulliam farm in southwestern Ripley County, Missouri for Christmas in 1863. Nearly 150 officers and men of the Missouri State Guard's 15th Cavalry Regiment (Confederate); at least sixty civilians, many of them women and children; and 102 prisoners, officers and men of Company C, Missouri State Militia (Union).

The civilians were family members, friends, and neighbors. Confederate "hosts" and Union "guests" were all Missourians; but they were divided by perhaps the bitterest of all enmities--those of civil war.

The day's activity was to begin with religious services conducted by the Reverend Colonel Timothy Reeves, commanding officer of the 15th Cavalry and a Baptist preacher of Ripley County. Then would follow Christmas dinner in the afternoon. The group at Pulliam' s farm numbered above three hundred at the very least, if the figures on the record are to be believed. It was too many for a mere religious service and holiday dinner. Pulliam's was one of Reeves's regimental camps.

What began as a festive occasion ended in horror and tragedy. As the celebrants sat at dinner, their arms stacked, they were surprised by two companies of the Union Missouri State Militia, more than 200 mounted cavalrymen. Only those guarding the prisoners, about 35 men, were armed. The Militia attacked without warning, shooting into the crowd, attacking with sabers, and killing at least thirty of the Confederate men instantly and mortally wounding several more. According to local tradition, many--perhapsmost---of the civilians were killed or wounded as well.

The immediate cause of the Wilson Massacre was a series of events at Centerville, Reynolds County. Centerville Courthouse was some sixty miles north of Doniphan and twenty-five southwest of Pilot Knob. Late in 1863, Centerville was captured by the Union 3rd Cavalry from Pilot Knob. Company C was left as garrison. On December 21, while engaged in building stables on the courthouse grounds, they were surprised and surrounded by Company N of Reeves's 15th Missouri Cavalry, under command of Captain Jesse Pratt, before the war the Baptist minister of Centerville. Company N was composed of farmers and merchants of Reynolds County. Probably Pratt and the Reeves brothers, also Baptist preachers, were long-time acquaintances. That Pratt was accorded the honor of recapturing his hometown was not accidental.

Captured were 102 Union men with their horses. Pratt took them south to Ripley County with a small group, leaving most of his men to garrison Centerville. He presented the prisoners to Reeves at Pulliam's on Christmas morning, and joined his fellows of the regiment for the day's festivities. One Union soldier had been allowed to escape at Centerville, doubtless to carry news of the event back to Pilot Knob. Reaction there was swift. Colonel R.G. Woodson, commander of the 3rd Missouri, ordered two mounted cavalry companies under Major James Wilson to pursue Pratt. They left Pilot Knob mid-morning on the twenty-third.

Wilson's force rode swiftly, rising in the darkness of the twenty-fifth to be on the road at 3:00 AM. They passed through Doniphan that morning, and continued west toward Ponder, capturing pickets as they went, and descended on Colonel Reeve’s group and prisoners just as they were eating Christmas dinner" (1)

Mr. Ponder's research on this subject can be found in his book: "History of Ripley County Missouri" , "A History of the 15th Missouri Cavalry Regiment, CSA: 1862-1865" , in an article published in Ozark Watch magazine (Vol.IV, No.4, Spring 1991) entitled,"Between Missourians: The Civil War in Ripley County", as well as "The Civil War in Ripley County Missouri" (published by the Doniphan-Prospect News in 1992) His research was also convincing enough that author Paulette Jiles used it in her novel "Enemy Women".

It was during this time, that the controversy arose concerning Ponder's research. Most of the criticism appears to have come from Ripley County Historian Ray Burson.

Mr. Burson contacted me several times and tried to convince me not to believe Mr. Ponder. He even sent me a packet of info that he has created to dissuade those who dare use Ponder's research in their writings. Among the papers that Mr. Burson included inhis "packet" were pieces (that he put together) entitled: "Jerry Ponder's Sources for the Wilson Massacre and Other Tales" and "Jerry Ponder On Providing His Sources".

Mr. Burson has also seemingly convinced historian and author Kirby Ross that Ponder's account of the Wilson Massacre is fictitious. However, Ponder, shortly before his death in 2005 sent me two documents,

The two papers are:

“The Time of the War" By: Lindzy Dudley written in 1918. Dudley appears to have fought under Colonel Reeves. His name does not appear on the official records, however this is not uncommon. Many men "took to the brush" in order to defend their families from Yankee invasion. It is also my understanding that Confederate "Partisans" were not afforded the same pensions later in life as Union and regular Confederate troops were, therefore no pension records would exist to verify their service. In this piece Lindzy Dudley states (of the Wilson Massacre):

“Reeves was a Baptist preacher. He backed up every sermon with his pistol. Reeves men were mean. No quarter was given or asked. He had commanded a company till the end of 1863.

Colonel Righter was captured with General Thompson and Reeves was put in command of the 15th. In November a field hospital was attacked by colored cavalry and about 100 of Reeves’ men were killed. Reeves collected revenge but he never got over the loss ofsick and wounded not able to fight back. Just shot in their beds. He talked about that until he died. On Christmas, a month later, several companies were at the Pulliam farm for a service and feed with their families. This was on the old Tom Pulliam place northwest of Johnston’s Chapel and close to Oregon County and the Arkansas line. There was a big spring there on the Mill Branch where folks in that part had picnics. Reeves did a sermon and the group was ready to eat. The well known Major Wilson, the Yankee from Pilot Knob called “The Murderer”, surrounded and attacked. The killed and the wounded were all over the field. Soldiers, their families, nearby families. All were killed. Those that could get across the creek and up the bluff on th

It is interesting that Ray Burson of the Ripley County Historical Society, would question Dudley's credibility in his account of the Wilson Massacre, yet in the book "History and Families of Ripley County Missouri" the historical society (who along with the publisher holds the copyright to the book) finds Dudley credible enough to relate who the first European settler of Ripley County was:

"In an interview with historian HUME in 1900, Lindzy DUDLEY reported that the first European resident was a "Wees RILEY" who arrived in 1802 with a Delaware Indian wife who soon died in childbirth" (3)

The other document was entitled: "Doniphan- No Man's Land During the Civil War" By: T. L. Wright Jr. and was written in March ,1929. The paper appears to be one written for a High school assignment by T. L. Wright Jr.. On the copy that Mr. Ponder sent me "DONIPHAN PUBLIC LIBRARY" is stamped on the upper left hand corner of the page.

I was able to talk to Jerry Ponder over the phone, while he was in Texas (a few months before he died) and he told me that he found the documents after they had been discarded. During the time that he found the documents (1990-1991) the Doniphan Public Library and the Ripley County library were being consolidated.

In addition I contacted the Ripley County Library's Doniphan Missouri location on Friday July 29, 2006 and talked to two separate librarians, Mr. Allen Rife and Mrs. Rebecca Wilcox. Both told me it was possible that the documents could have been discardedduring the consolidation. During a second phone interview conducted on August 7th, 2006 I talked to a third librarian Mrs. Patricia Robison, who told me that though she did not work at the library at the time of the consolidation, she is a life long resident of Ripley County it was "entirely possible" that documents were discarded during the consolidation of the two libraries in the early 1990's.

As a side note, I was also able to check out a book from the Doniphan-Ripley County Library entitled "Doniphan and Ripley County History". There is no copyright date, but the earliest entries appear to be from the early 1900's and the last entry appears to be in the early 1970's and upon examination of the library stamp on this book, and the document that Jerry Ponder sent me, they are the same and one can clearly ascertain that the library stamp on the document Jerry Ponder sent me is valid.

T. L. Wright Jr.'s 1929 paper also gives long time residents accounts of the Wilson Massacre. Given the fact that this paper was written in 1929, it is possible that the accounts could have been eyewitness accounts. Certainly they could be accounts written by citizens who were living during the time of the "Wilson Massacre".

"On Christmas Day, 1863, Major James Wilson, later captured and executed by firing squad at Pilot Knob, and 200 Union troops from Fort Davidson at Pilot Knob, passed through Doniphan, traveling on a southeast course to Pulliam’s Farm, 17 miles from Doniphan where Colonel Reeves and his cavalry were encamped. A vicious, surprise attack ensued and 35 rebels were killed and 112 taken prisoner when the fighting had ended. But worse, families and neighbors were present and, in the heat of battle, Wilson’s soldiers killed over 50 civilians. Mrs. Betty Towell, Tom Pulliam and Ed Cline, long-time residents of the neighborhood, tell that the civilians killed, in camp for a Christmas visit, included women and children who were shot down the same as the rebel soldiers of Reeves’ Regiment. That action attests to the cruelty of the war." (4)

According to historian Kirby Ross, T.L. Wright Jr. was born in 1912. That would have made T.L. Wright Jr. 17 years of age at the time he wrote this document (which appears to be a high school paper). One of the criticisms that Mr. Ross has made in his attempt to discredit Jerry Ponder was posted on an online forum on August 14th, 2005. In it Mr. Ross states (in reference to the document written by T.L.Wright Jr. in 1929) that:

"…do you realize that this version of the T.L. Wright article has a four year old boy conducting complex historical interviews?” (5)

Ross continues by stating:

"Now as to Mr. Ponder's fantabulous precocious four year old interviewer/historian, T. L. Wright, I refer you to Mr. Lacy's posting that says:

"A major set-back was experienced by the Confederate Army on August 24, 1863, when General Jeff Thompson, Colonel William Righter and most of their staffs were captured at the hotel in Pocahontas while holding a planning meeting. General Thompson was taken to a military prison in Ohio and held there for over a year before he was released. Colonel Righter was taken to St. Louis by a circuitous route around Ripley County. He agreed to sign an alliance to the Union and put up $1,000.00 bond as assurance thathe would not fight again. The Colonel told me."

That last sentence bears repeating: "The Colonel told me."

Ponder is offering this to show that T.L. Wright personally interviewed Col. William H. Righter. This passage is so ridiculously bad that it is laugh out loud funny and begs to be repeated, for you see, T.L. Wright was born Feb. 15, 1912 and William Harmon Righter passed away on November 26, 1916." (6)

This criticism by Ross bears examination. First of all, as stated before, T.L. Wright Jr. was 17 years of age when he wrote his 1st version of "Doniphan: No Man's Land in the Civil War" in 1929 and the words "The Colonel told me" seems to be more of a recollection of a story that William Harmon Righter told him when he was a young boy. Nowhere has Jerry Ponder ever wrote that T.L.Wright Jr. was conducting "complex interviews" at 4 years of age. It is also important to note that T. L. Wright Jr.'s 1929 version of "Doniphan: No Man's Land During the Civil War", matches Lindzy Dudley's 1918 version of what occurred at Pulliam's Farm on December 25, 1863.

On the same online forum posted by Kirby Ross on Wednesday August 31st, 2005, Ross states:

"And with this published account of the document in question, if Jerry Ponder’s version of “the Wilson Massacre” is to be accepted, one must also accept that Wright participated in part of the massive cover-up of the massacre that Jo Shelby and Jeff Thompson would have also been a part of." (7)

There is no way that Confederate General M. Jeff Thompson of the Missouri State guard could be involved in the Wilson Massacre or have known about it because he was captured on August 22, 1863. The Wilson Massacre occurred on December 25, 1863. General M.Jeff Thompson was in a Yankee prison in the North at the time that the "Wilson Massacre" occurred. (7)

It is possible that after General Thompson's release in 1864, that he had no doubt heard about the atrocities being committed in Ripley County and the surrounding areas, after he made his way back to Missouri just in time to participate in General Price’s1864 Missouri Expedition.

On the same August 31'st, 2005 online forum post Kirby Ross offers another version of T.L. Wright Jr.'s "Doniphan: No Man's Land in the Civil War" which he claims is the "real" T.L. Wright Jr. document and was published in Doniphan Prospect-News Doniphan,Missouri Thursday, April 2, 1970. Ross states:

"By the way, note that Wright doesn’t refer to William H. Righter as being one of his sources in this article, or of having interviewed him when he was four years old." (8)

This is true, T.L. Wright Jr. does not make mention of Colonel William H. Righter as one of his sources in the 1970 Prospect-News newspaper article. However one must remember that there is a 31 year difference between the article written in 1970 , when T.L. Wright Jr. was 58 years of age and the one written in 1929 when he was 17 years of age. Mr. Ross claims that the 1970 Doniphan Prospect News article is the "real" T.L. Wright Jr. article. Yet there is a third version of the T.L. Wright Jr. article thatappeared in the Ripley County Library book, "Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War", there is no date on this piece, but it appears to be written around the same time period as the 1970 article. Like the 1970 article there is no mention of civilians killed or Colonel Righter. But there are areas in which the T.L. Wright Jr. article found in the book "Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War" differ from the version published in the Doniphan - Prospect news in 1970. Is it not legitimate as wel

It appears that in later years T.L. Wright Jr. decided to cite more official sources for his revised work, "Doniphan: No Man's Land in the Civil War" and his version of the Wilson Massacre seems to follow other versions in the "Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War" book found in the Ripley County Library. This does not make his original version any less valid. Remember the 1929 version quoted long time residents of Ripley County who lived in the area.

No one knows why T.L. Wright Jr chose not to include these sources in the two other versions of his paper in later years.

Mr. Burson's criticism seems to be centered around Colonel William H. Righter himself and whether or not he was a real Colonel. In a personal letter sent to me by Ray Burson entitled: "Jerry Ponder's Sources for the Wilson Massacre and other Tales" Bursonwrites:

"The tale: That William Harmon Righter was the founder and Colonel of the 15th Missouri Cavalry, CSA , captured at Pocahontas , AR with Gen. Jeff Thompson and then sat out the rest of the war in St. Louis. Righter is a prominent figure in Ponder's books on the 15th Missouri Cavalry, The Battle of Chalk Bluff and Maj. Gen. John S. Marmaduke.

Historians have not found any record of Righter's service in the CSA and there is not mention of it in his biographic sketches and three obituaries. He is not mentioned in the OR with the Capture of Thompson or elsewhere. He was merely a Southern sympathizer. Ponder got the VA {Veterans Administration} to provide a headstone which he had placed in the Doniphan City cemetery for Righter without providing Righter's service record" (9)

A “Post It” note was attached to the letter which reads:

"Mr. Lacy , Here's the real scope of Ponder's mischief. See IV- what does creating fake colonels add to the story of Southern valor during the Civil War? Regards, Ray Burson"

The fact that Burson has stated that no service record of Righter in the CSA has been found doesn't mean that Righter did not serve in some capacity. As stated at the beginning of this article, this was not uncommon, many men "took to the brush" and fought as informal companies of partisans. It is extremely doubtful that the Veterans Administration would have provide a headstone for Colonel Righter, free of charge, without some kind of documentation that Righter served in some capacity during the war.

In Jean Ponder's story "Doniphan During the Civil War", she states that:

"There is an amusing anecdote told about a group of southern sympathizers who lived in Doniphan. Living in the town at that time was a man by the name of W.H. Ryder, who claimed he was from Virginia. -- 'A gentleman from Virginia - drunk or sober.' One day all of these southern sympathizers were gathered in the town. Suddenly, without any warning, a division of the Union Army marched into town. Caught unprepared, the Southerns had to 'take to the bushes' for their lives. As Ryder was the fastest runner of them all and got to safety first, the rest of them immediately made him their colonel." (10)

If these men were ordinary citizens, then why were they afraid, why did they run? If they were nothing more than ordinary citizens, then why were they gathered in town? What was the intention of the gathering?

The fact that obituaries about Righter did not mention any military service is not proof positive that he did not fight. After all Colonel Timothy Reeves, after the war, was reluctant to discuss his war time experiences, stating that "he wished to be remembered as a good preacher, not a civil war hero", obituaries about him made no mention of his military experience. (11)

Jerry Ponder said in his research that Righter's commission came from Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson. Ponder's critics state that Thompson made no record of this. Is it possible that this could have happened? It is entirely possible. In his book "Thisis the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson", Thompson himself writes that:

"About the 1st of July 1861, Cyrus Black and Miles Ponder of Ripley County, Missouri came down to Pocohontas {Arkansas} to inform me that the citizens of Ripley and Carter counties were meeting at Martins-burg to organize a Battalion and desired me to come up and take command" (12)

Thompson further states that he was elected to command the battalion and that Aden Lowe was not a candidate because of the strict discipline that he enforced before Thompson's arrival. One of Jeff Thompson's first acts as commander of the Ripley County Battalion, was to, start enlisting men as Partisan rangers. Thompson writes:

"I saw at this time the necessity of mounted troops even for my small command, and I authorized James F. White to raise as many men to act as Partizans and Flankers , as he could find with good horses: (13)

Sam Hildebrand, who later became known as a Missouri Bushwhacker, is another partisan that was given a commission by General M. Jeff Thompson. In his autobiography Hildebrand wrote:

"As soon as I could gain admission to the General’s headquarters I did so, and he received me very kindly. He listened very attentively to me as I proceeded to state my case to him - how my brother had been murdered, how I had barely escaped the same fate, and how I had finally been driven from the country.

General THOMPSON reflected a few moments, then seizing a pen he rapidly wrote off a few lines and handing it to me he said, “here, I give you a Major’s commission; go where you please, take what men you can pick up, fight on your own hook, and report to me every six months.” (14)

Even though Hildebrand received a Major's commission from Thompson, the act is not mentioned in "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson". Nor is it mentioned in "General M. Jeff Thompson's Letter Book July 1861-June1862", written by Jim McGhee, therefore the fact that there is no record of Righter's commission, doesn't mean that he was not given one by Thompson.

Yet there is another possibility in this story. If there was a record of Colonel Righter's or Sam Hildebrand's commissions given by M. Jeff Thompson, the records might have very well been destroyed at the time of M. Jeff Thompson's capture in Pocahontas, Arkansas, on August 22, 1863. In the book, "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson", Thompson writes:

"Kay spread out my maps to examine them and by -the -way I had the best set of maps that I saw during the war, for I had all kinds of military information on them, and the name and status of nearly every man in Southeast Missouri. I sat down in my shirt sleeves to copy some drawings, about 4 P.M. We heard horses running. I did not look up, but Kay did and shouted ; "By George , here's the Feds." I sprang to my feet, and sure enough they were within forty yards, with a string of them as far as the eye could reach, all coming at full speed. I gasped as if my heart would jump out of my mouth, but instantly sat down again, and said:, Kay, burn those maps." (15)

The only flaw in the Linzy Dudley, T.L Wright Jr.'s 1929 document, and Ponder's writings that I could find is the fact that Righter was not captured directly with Thompson. Again quoting "This is the War Experiences of Brigadier General M. Jeff Thompson" Thompson writes of being brought to Doniphan , Missouri in route to Pilot Knob, Missouri that:

"There were only five military prisoners, being Kay, Train, McDonald , Miller and myself, but there were a large number of people , men and boys, brought into camp to prevent them from carrying the news". (16)

Righter could have very well have been in the latter group. Perhaps this is the reason that Lindzy Dudley told Charles Booker in 1918 that:

"Colonel Righter was captured with General Thompson" (17)

In the book "The Civil War in Ripley County , Missouri" it states that Colonel W.H. Righter following his capture was:

"…was taken to Gratiot Prison in St. Louis. There he agreed not to further take up arms and was paroled. He remained in St. Louis the remainder of the war, reading law. His wife, Anna Wright Righter, died there in February 1864. When the war ended, Colonel Righter returned to Ripley County and, in 1866, was elected as the state representative from Ripley County. Because of his Confederate service, the General Assembly refused to seat him and appointed a "stand -in" to represent the county...In 1867 Colonel Righter went to Mississippi and raised cotton, but he returned to Ripley County the same year and built the Bay City Mils on Current River" and that, "As soon as the Missouri constitution permitted former Confederates to practice law in the state Righter leased the mills and opened a law office in Doniphan. He was considered an excellent lawyer and had a large practice. He was elected prosecuting attorney for Ripley County in 1876" (18)

The Thursday Sept. 2d, 1909 issue of "Twice a Month Magazine" confirms that Righter:

"returned to St. Louis October 1863, planted cotton in Mississippi in 1866-67 and returned to Ripley County in 1868" (19)

"Twice a Month Magazine" also stated that :

"Colonel Righter is a typical Southern gentleman possessing nearly all their strongest characteristics. During the Reconstruction days of the late 60's and early 70's he had many "warm skirmishes" with the "carpet baggers" his county contained about 300 Democratic voters who were "slow to come under the ban". Leaving it in the hands of about 12 Republicans to handle its affairs". (20)

Righter was elected to the State Legislature in 1882, after Reconstruction, when former Confederates were once again allowed to hold office. (21)

Even without the discussion of what role Colonel William Harmon Righter played in the War Between the States, there is plenty of other evidence that proves the "Wilson Massacre" could have happened. Yankee atrocities happened throughout the Missouri Ozarks during the war and fighting between warring factions was both personal and brutal.

On a U.S. Forestry Service website entitled, "History of the Irish Wilderness", a detailed description of Union policy toward Missouri Southerners living in the Southeast Missouri Ozarks is given.

The website cites the War of the Rebellions: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, one entry in particular shows proof that the women of the area were looked down upon and treated badly by the occupying Union soldiers. Captain Robert McElroy of the 3rd Missouri State Militia (Union) wrote that:

"I am of the opinion that the women in that region are even more daring and treacherous, and in fact, worse than the men, as we found in their possession a number of newly made rebel uniforms, etc. (22)

Jerry Ponder's critics cite eye-witness accounts of Union soldiers who were present at the Wilson Massacre and stated that all of the prisoners were well cared for. But reading through the U.S. Forestry Service's "The History of the Irish Wilderness" , which cites the official records of the War of the Rebellions, one will find that anyone who was even "suspected" of being a "Bushwhacker" was taken prisoner. In Captain Boyd's (who was a Union Scout) report he states that:

"…found fresh trail of horses, followed them on Jack's Fork to the residence of Miles Stephens and brother, Jack Stephens, whom' I'm satisfied were Bushwhackers. Burned the house." (23)

Anyone "suspected" of harboring or aiding a Bushwhacker had their property burned, furthermore, in Captain John Boyd's report of the 6th Provisional Regiment EMM (Union) one will find between November 4 - 9 , 1863 ,there were over 23 houses burned , and 10 men killed, by these Union troops, the majority of which were prisoners who "tried to escape" and were shot. (24)

All of this occurred little over a month before the "Wilson Massacre" and we are supposed to believe that the Union militia treated Reeves men and local civilians any better on December 25, 1863?

There are other pieces of evidence that suggest that the "Wilson Massacre" did happen. At the Stoddard County Civil War Cemetery in Bloomfield, Missouri, there are monuments erected in honor of Southern soldiers and civilians who were killed during the War Between the States. The monuments are unique due to the fact that they have detailed information about the individual on the front of the monument, name, rank unit, etc. and on the back of the monument a detailed description of where and how the individual died.

One states on the front of the monument: "PVT. , Thomas McKinney, Co. A, 15th Mo. Reg. Cav. CSA. July 16, 1845 - Dec. 25, 1863." The back of the monument reads: "Killed in Action, Ripley County, Mo".

Another monument is more specific. The front reads: "In memory of , PVT. , Jacob Foster, Co. A, 15th Mo. Cav. , April 18, 1830- December 25, 1863."

The back of the monument reads: "Died of Wounds, Received At, Christmas Dinner, Doniphan Mo., "Wilson Massacre" (25)

If one looks at the events following the "Wilson Massacre" a clear picture begins to develop that something "very significant" happened on December 25, 1863 in Ripley County , Missouri. An event so drastic, that the effects of it would be felt throughout the rest of the War Between the States in Missouri, and even after the war had ended.

First of all something must have been weighing very heavily upon Major Wilson's mind for in March of 1864 he told his nephew, while he was on furlough:

"If you ever hear of me being taken prisoner by the guerilla Tim Reeves you may count me as dead. I know I shall never get away from him alive. I have broken up his recruiting operations three times." (26)

Was Wilson worried about his life because he had broken up Reeves' recruiting operations? Or did he fear retribution for something much worse, that he did not want his family to know about?

One must not discount the fact that that during the General Sterling Price's Missouri Expedition of 1864, at the Battle of Pilot Knob, Missouri:

"Maj. James Wilson, Third Cavalry Missouri State Militia, after being wounded was captured on Pilot Knob, and subsequently with six of his gallant men was brutally murdered by order of a rebel field officer of the day." (27)

In an article entitled: "No Heroes On Either Side" written by Ponder critic Ray Burson and published in the Prospect-News (Doniphan Missouri's local newspaper) and dated Wednesday, July 16,2003 , another Ponder critic Kirby Ross attributes Major Wilson'sdeath to the burning of Doniphan, Missouri.

"Ross , whose article on the burning of Doniphan will be in an upcoming issue of North - South magazine, linked Wilson's death to the destruction of Doniphan "which had taken place earlier, two weeks to the day." (28)

However, in the "Report of Confederate General J.O. Shelby C. S. Army, Commanding Division. AUGUST 29-DECEMBER 2, 1864. Price's Missouri Expedition."

It appears that General Shelby administered justice to the perpetrators who were responsible for the of burning Doniphan, almost as quickly as the act was committed. Shelby wrote that:

"On the 12th of September I moved camp from Sulphur Rock, Ark., toward Pocahontas in anticipation of the arrival of the army, and on the 19th, after having received my instructions, started for Missouri, and encamped in Doniphan. Before arriving there, however, couriers from Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, of Marmaduke's command, brought information that 100 Federals were in the town and pressing him back. I immediately started forward sufficient re-enforcements, but the enemy fled before reaching them, burning the helpless and ill-fated town. That night I dispatched 150 men under Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson to pursue the vandals. They came upon them early the next morning [20th], attacked, scattered, and killed many of them. I pushed on then rapidly for Patterson, destroying on the way the bloody rendezvous of the notorious Leeper, and on the morning of the 22d I surrounded and charged in upon the town. Its garrison, hearing of my advance, retreated hastily, but not before many were captured and killed, a

Confederate General M. Jeff Thompson offered another reason for the execution of Major James Wilson. As mentioned earlier in this article, Thompson was in a Union prison at the time of the "Wilson Massacre", but he was exchanged in time to make his way back to Missouri to join Confederate General Sterling Price's 1864 Missouri Expedition.

In May of 1865 Thompson surrendered 10,000 men at Jacksonport , Arkansas. Out of those 10,000 men, only one was not paroled. Confederate Colonel, Timothy Reeves, Commander of the 15th Missouri Cavalry, CSA. Thompson wrote that:

" In a few days we finished all the paroles , except that of Timothy C. Reeves, whom Col. Davis would not agree to parole , considering him outlawed for the shooting of Major Williams { Major Wilson, this was a misprint} and five men on the Price Raid; but I must state for Col. Reeves, that he was as good a man and soldier as any in the command , and his shooting of that party was entirely justifiable; only that it should have been by such an order and form that retaliation would have been avoided.

I solicited to have this party turned over to me, that I might have them shot in due form, and Reeves men refrained from killing them for three days in hopes that I would get them; but responsibilities of this kind were not to our commanders liking , and they were turned over to Reeves to guard, with a pretty full knowledge that they would be shot.

I knew Reeves men , nearly everyone of them, and the provocation was bitter, for I had seen the blackened ruins and lonely graves in Ripley county with my own eyes." (30)

Is it possible that Jerry Ponder made some mistakes in his research? Yes. Everyone makes mistakes. But Jerry Ponder was a retired military intelligence officer, and far from inept.

Is it possible that his two greatest critics Ray Burson and Kirby Ross are biased in their research?

In an online webpage entitled, "The Military Record of Major James Wilson", author Willard S. Bacon writes that:

"Mr. Kirby Ross who had many relatives who served in the 3rd MSM, provided immeasurable help, in finding obscure sources and documents, from many repositories." (31)

(Major Wilson, was the commander of the 3rd Missouri State Militia, which attacked Pulliam's Farm on December 25, 1863)

Friends of Jerry Ponder have also told me that Ray Burson, was not originally from Ripley County, Missouri, but from a Northern state, and that it is rumored his wife is a descendant of one of the 14 families in Ripley, County Missouri that were pro-Union during the war. I have attempted to contact Burson in the hopes that he could shed some light on this subject. But as of yet he has not provided any answers to this question.

Perhaps Jerry Ponder said it best when he said that:

"Some questions will probably never be satisfactorily explained" (32)


Sources:

“Between Missourians: Ripley County in the Civil War” , Ponder, Ozark Watch Magazine , Vol. IV, No. 4, Spring 1991 a.Linzy Dudley: The Time of the War pgs. 1,15 1918

"Doniphan: No Man's Land During the Civil War" T.L. Wright Jr. ,1929, Doniphan High School

Article entitled “First Settlers of Ripley County” found in the book “History and Families of Ripley County Missouri”, Ripley County Historical Society

Kirby Ross post made August 14th ,2005 on the Missouri in the Civil War message board.

Ibid.

posted by Kirby Ross on Wednesday August 31'st, 2005, Missouri in the Civil War message board.

M. Jeff Thompson “This is the Story of the War Experiences of Brig. General M. Jeff Thompson”, pg.103, Kent Library, Southeast Missouri State University

posted by Kirby Ross on Wednesday August 31'st, 2005, Missouri in the Civil War message board.

Personal correspondence from Ray Burson, Ripley County Historical Society entitled, “Jerry Ponder’s Sources for the Wilson Massacre And Other Tales”

Doniphan and Ripley County in the Civil War, Ripley County Library, Doniphan, Missouri


“War Hero Timothy Reeves wanted to be remembered as ‘good preecher’, Daily American Republic Newspaper

“This is the War Experiences of Brig. General M. Jeff Thompson”, M. Jeff Thompson, Kent Library, Southeast Missouri State University, pgs. 21-22


Benjamin Lewis died as a POW in St. Louis after being captured at a Christmas dinner with Confederate soldiers, family, and Union POW's. Wilson attacked and killed many.

The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. ; Series 1 - Volume 22 (Part II), pages 749-750


PILOT KNOB, Mo., December 23, 1863.
General Fisk:
GENERAL: It is reported to me today that Centreville was attacked and captured yesterday by Reves, 200 strong, and that he immediately retreated south. I have a battalion on his trail today. R. G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding Post. ****
SAINT Louis, Mo., December 23, 1863.
Col. R. G. WOODSON: I cannot see how Reves could get at Centreville without the knowledge of Captain Leeper. I can’t credit the report. You will at once organize an expedition that will go in search of Reves, and follow him. It seems to me that with proper vigor he might be exterminated or driven out of Southeastern Missouri. You have sufficient force to enable you to keep after him until he will trouble us no more.
CLINTON B. FISK, Brigadier General.
****
Note.The expedition is already on the road. H. G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding. ****PILOT KNOB, Mo., December 23, 1863. Lient. W. T. CLARKE, Aide-de.Camp: In answer to yours of this date, I have to state that at present I am unable to give many particulars. My information of the catastrophe at Centreville comes from a citizen living near. He states that Reves (estimated at from 200 to 400) came into Centreville yesterday about 2 o’clock, completely surprising the garrison, taking them all prisoners, and again immediately moved on to the south. H G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding Post.****
PILOT KNOB, Mo., December 24, 1863.

General FISK:
Major Wilson, with all the effective force of the Third, is after Reves, about 200. My instructions are to follow him to hell, and get the prisoners back, at least. A few of them have come in. It is even so Company C is captured, excepting a few men. I hardly believed it when I telegraphed you yesterday. They were surprised, building stables. No light, a few scattering shots, and a few wounded; none killed. A boy, just reported says he was shot at; returned the fire with small shot, wounding a rebel; he escaped on foot. I have sent a reconnoitering party to Centreville to report the state of affairs there. I will know this evening. Had not I better go this evening?
H G. WOODSON, Colonel, Commanding Post.
****
HEADQUARTERS SAINT LOUIS DISTRICT,
Saint Louis, Mo., December 24, 1863.
Col. H. G. Woodson, Pilot Knob:
I am greatly mortified with the Centreville affair. Where were Captain [S. A. C.] Bartlett’s pickets? I fear that the most criminal neglect has allowed this disaster to come upon us. I trust that there will be no failure in wiping out the apparent disgrace. Take hold of the pursuit and extermination yourself.

CLINTON B. FISK, Brigadier General.
****
The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. ; Series 1 - Volume 22 (Part I) Page 783-784
DECEMBER 23-25, 1863.Attack on Centreville, Mo., and pursuit of the Confederates, including skirmish (25th) at Pulliams.
REPORTS.
No. 1. Maj. Oliver ID. Greene, Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Army.
No. 2.Maj. James Wilson, Third Missouri State Militia Cavalry.

No. 1. Report of Maj. Oliver D. Greene, Assistant Adjutant General, U. S. Army.
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI, Saint Louis, December 28, 1863.
GENERAL: An entire company of the Third Missouri State Militia was captured at Centreville, Reynolds County, by guerrillas, under Reves, on the 23d instant. Major Wilson, of the Third Missouri State Militia, followed the party, and, at 3 p. m. Christmas day, he overtook and attacked; killed and wounded 35, captured 150 prisoners (13 officers), all equipage and ammunition, and 125 horses; recaptured all prisoners. Our loss, 1 killed and 8 wounded.
OLIVER D. GREENE, Assistant Adjutant General.
Major General SCHOFIELD, West Point, N. Y
No. 2. Report of Maj. James Wilson, Third Missouri State Militia Cavalry.
HDQRS: THIRD MISSOURI STATE MILITIA CAVALRY, Pilot Knob, Mo., December 30, 1863.
SIR: In compliance with your orders of the 23d instant, I left Pilot Knob, in command of 200 men, about 10 a. in. December~23, 1863, arriving at Patterson at 9 p. m. Left there at daylight on the 24th, and encamped at Long’s at 9 p. m., having traveled 35miles. Marched again at 3 a. m. 25th instant; passed through Doniphan, taking a southwesterly direction toward the Arkansas line. Eight miles from Doniphan, I captured 2 pickets; 2 miles farther I captured one other post, and still 2 miles farther on came upon a rolling picket or patrol, and run them off of the road, capturing 1 and compelling him to lead us to the camp of Reves.* Arriving at the camp, I divided my men into two columns, and charged upon them with my whole force. The enemy fired, turned, and threw down their arms and fled, with the exception of 30 or 35, and they were riddled with bullets or .pierced through with the saber almost instantly. The enemy lost in killed about 30; wounded mortally, 3; slightly, 2; total killed and wounded
* At Pulliams, 17 miles southwest of Doniphan.

This essay contains a short paragraph about the circumstances surrounding Ennis Hooper's capture on Christmas Day, 1863. Doniphan Prospect-News Doniphan, Missouri Thursday, April 2, 1970 page 7 Ripley Recalled RIPLEY COUNTY--NO MANS LAND IN THE CIVILWAR By T.L. Wright

In Missouri, the Civil War was neither lost nor won. In fact, neither the Confederate nor the Union Government considered activities west of the Mississippi River of any significance. However, to those thousands who gave their lives at Wilson’ s Creek, Pilot Knob, Westport, and at many unnamed skirmishes, those encounters were most significant. Missouri had more participants in the great conflict in proportion to her population than did nay other state in the nation, North or South. One hundred thirty thousand men, or sixty percent of the eligible Missouri males, were in service. They favored the Union almost four to one.

Throughout the four years of the war [sic], the vicinity of Doniphan and Ripley County was a virtual no man’s land. There were no major battles--only skirmishes. Both Union and Confederate troops operated in and around the area, since Doniphan and Pitman’s Ferry were vital geographic locations because of their necessary Current River crossings: Pitman’ s Ferry on the Nachitoches Trail, presently known as the Old Military Road, and Doniphan on the Greenville-to-Pocahontas road. These roads were Southeast Missouri’ s main highways. The Official Record of the War of the Rebellion contains many items of local interest to Ripley County residents. Brigadie r General M. Jeff Thompson organized and commanded the Ripley County Battalion of the Confederate Army. This unit was active for the most part at Bloomfield, New Madrid, Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Fredericktown, Pitman’ s Ferry and at Pocahontas, Ark.

In the Battle of Fredericktown, October 21, 1861, Col. Aden Lowe of Doniphan was leading an assault with his Confederate Infantry Regiment on a large force of Union troops when he was hit in the head by musket fire. He was killed instantly. Col. Lowe was the great grandfather of Chester “Bud” Ponder, current publisher of The Prospect News. Also mentioned for gallant action in this battle were Colonels Waugh and Hedgepeth of Doniphan. After this battle, the Rebels withdrew to Pitman’ s Ferry.

During the winter of 1861-62, numerous skirmishes occurred over the occupation of Doniphan. The area was stripped of all produce, and many families suffered for the lack of the necessities of life. Doniphan inhabitants, mostly Rebel sympathizers, feared the Federal troops would destroy the town (a catastrophe which later happened), though Captain W.T. Leeper had promised destruction would not take place so long as the townspeople remained loyal to the Union. General Jeff Thompson, in writing of the severewinter of 1861-62, mentioned men with names familiar today, such as Kelley, Peterson, Wise and Brannon, as ( patriotic gentlemen who are willing to serve anytime, anywhere) , and who had remained with him though others had left for their homes when the regiment disbanded at the end of their original enlistment.

On April 1, 1862, a skirmish of considerable size took place at the Doniphan Ford on Current River. This engagement lasted for two days, and many men on both sides were killed, wounded or captured. This action followed an order from Major General H.W. Halleck of St. Louis to Col. W.P. Carlin at Pilot Knob to occupy Doniphan and capture Pocahontas. A month earlier, Col. Carlin had reported that the Rebels had removed all ferries on the Current River.

Forces led by Capt. Leeper, a Union officer from Wayne County, and Col. Timothy Reeves, a Rebel from Ripley County, were often engaged in battle. It is reported that one cold, wintry night Reeves caught Leeper above Doniphan and made the Captain and his troops swim across the river in their underwear, despite the cold. For the November Election of 1863, Federal troops were dispatched to Poplar Bluff, Doniphan and Alton for the express purpose of guarding the polls and stopping the bushwhacking in and around Doniphan.

The worst incident of bloodshed in Ripley County during the entire war followed this order. On Christmas Day, 1863, Major James Wilson and 200 Union troops from Fort Davidson passed through Doniphan traveling on a southwesterly course toward the Pulliam Farm, 17 miles from town near Warm Springs, Ark., where Confederate Col. Reeves and his cavalry were celebrating the holiday. Major Wilson’ s forces surprised the Confederates at dinner, killing 35 and taking 112 prisoners.

Almost a year later, Major Wilson met his fate while defending Fort Davidson against Confederate troops during Col. Price’ s Rebel invasion of Missouri. The Major became trapped in a ravine on the east slope of Sheppard’ s Mountain. Moments later, when his identify became known, he was summarily shot by a hastily formed Rebel firing squad. In the squad were some of the survivors of Price’ s [sic] Christmas Day assault on the Pulliam Farm.

By the summer of 1864, the Confederate Army had suffered defeat on all fronts. In desperation, Lt. Gen. E. Kirby Smith, Commander of the Trans-Mississippi Department of the Confederate Army, issued orders to Maj. Gen. Sterling Price to invade Missouri andtake possession of the State. In Southwest Arkansas, Price organized his army of 12,000 men and 14 pieces of artillery, and left Camden on August 28 to rendezvous at Pocahontas in two weeks with three Confederate Divisions commanded by Major Generals James F. Fagan, John S. Marmaduke and Brig. Gen. Joseph O. Shelby. After three days in war-torn Pocahontas, repairing more than 300 wagons and shoeing cavalry horses, the Rebels began their invasion of Missouri.

They advanced in three columns, intending to junction at Fredericktown. Marmaduke entered the State at Pitman’ s Ferry near Current View and traveled North along the Old Military Road. By September 19, he was encamped at Poplar Bluff. Gen. Price’ s Headquarters Column, with Fagan’ s Division, moved up the center, camping that same night on the old Indian Ford, six miles downstream from Doniphan. Today, this place is known as the Ruff’ s Ferry area. Gen. Jo Shelby’ s Cavalry Division took the left route, the old Doniphan-to-Pocahontas road. They arrived in Doniphan via the Current River Ford at 3 p.m. on September 19 to find the town in flames. Only the Methodist Church, which had been converted into a hospital, and the residence of Col. Aden Lowe’ s widowhad been spared. The town had been fired that morning by a scouting party of 100 Union troops of the Third Missouri Militia Cavalry led by a Lt. Pape who had been warned of the Rebel invasion. Gen. Shelby dispatched 150 cavalrymen under Lt

Early next morning the Rebels came upon the Union scouts encamped at Ponder’ s Mill on Little Black River. They attacked, and killed or captured all but ten of the Federal troopers.; The dead of that fight are buried in the old military Cemetery northeastof Fairdealing. Two days later, Shelby’ s forces destroyed the Union fort at Patterson. On September 24, Shelby’ s Cavalry was dispatched from Fredericktown toward Farmington and Potosi with orders to destroy the railroad from St. Louis to Pilot Knob.

Meanwhile, the Divisions under Fagan and Marmaduke made an assault on Fort Davidson near Pilot Knob. During the brief 20 minutes of battle, 1500 men were killed. Most were Confederates. The remaining Confederates regrouped and prepared to attack again at dawn. That night, Brig. Gen. Thomas Ewing, Commander of the Union Fort, quietly withdrew, leaving behind only a small detail of horsemen to blow up the ammunition magazine before daybreak.

The Pilot Knob battle marked the beginning of the end of Price’ s invasion of Missouri. Conditions worsened until Price was literally chased back into Northwest Arkansas. He reached that state only through the gallant protection afforded him by Gen. Jo Shelby’ s Cavalry, the same Unit which had avenged the destruction of Doniphan a few weeks earlier.

This account is based upon the “ War Of The Rebellion”, Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, published in 1885 by Government Printing Office, as well as the following books: “Shelby And His Men” by John Edward’ s, and “ Pilot Knob, The Thermopylaeof the West” by Cyrus A. Peterson and Joseph Mills Hanson.


Died:
Gratiot Street Military Prison

Buried:
Tombstone # 19 9788

findagrave.com memorial # 93998910

Benjamin married Naoma Huett about 1850 in , McMinn County, Tennessee, USA. Naoma (daughter of Daniel Huett and Susannah Lawson) was born in 1829 in Unknown, , , ; died in 1863 in Unknown, , , . [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LZ17-NVV
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

!NOTES

Nancy's daughter, Alice Stevenson, married Edward Talley. Nancy Lewis Stevenson's second husband was Alice's father in law, Charlie Talley.

!NOTES

Nancy was married one time and had 6 children. She had 2 girls and 4 boys. (Information Written by Nancy's niece, Lucy May Abrams Cole. A copy was sent to Linda Lewis by Bob Abrams in 1990)

!NOTES

Nancy Lewis Stevenson is buried in the Mountain View Cemetery at Des Arc, Missouri. She and her husband, Thomas Benton Stevenson, had six or seven children. After Thomas' death, Nancy married Charles Talley (the father in law of Nancy's daugher, Alice) on August 29, 1910 at Iron County, Missouri. (Source: STEVENSON FAMILY TREE compiled by R. Daniel Stevenson ...August 1992)

!NOTES

Thomas Benton Stevenson is buried at the Mountain View Cemetery at Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri. (Source: STEVENSON FAMILY TREE compiled by R. Daniel Stevenson ...August 1992)

Children:
121*ALICE STEVENSON b.12 Jun 1880 d. 6 Feb 1954
122*CHAPLES W STEVENSON b.Oct 1881
120*WILLIAM D WAY, STEVENSON b.3 Jun 1883 d. 4 Apr 1924
124*AUSTIN L OAS STEVENSON b. Oct 1886 d. Dec 1955
125*ANDREW BAUD STEVENSON b. Jun 1889 d. 1956
126*CLARISSA STEVENSON b. 1895

She also married (127) CHARLES M TALLEY who was born Nov 1840 in INDIANA.

!NOTES

Charles M. Talley fought as a Private with Company A, 13th Illinois Calvary during the Civil War. He enlisted on May 1, 1864 and was discharged on November 1. 1865.


(Source: STEVENSON FAMILY TREE compiled by R. Daniel Stevenson ...August 1992)

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992.

In 1870 Census, she and her brother Daniel are living with uncle and aunt - Andrew and Angelina Lewis

Nancy married Thomas Benton "Ben" Stevenson in 1878. Thomas was born in Aug 1851 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 08 Feb 1908 in Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: 2CFG-ZKF
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

!NOTES

Daniel married Cristana (Charlton) Stevenson. She was born in 1843 and died in 1893. She had about 8 children when they got married. (Information sent to Linda Lewis from Loren Mayne Ruble)

!NOTES

Daniel was married two times. He had 4 children (2 boys and 2 girls) (Information written by Daniel's niece, Lucy May Abrams Cole. A copy of the information was sent to Linda Lewis by Bob Abrams in 1990)

!NOTES

Daniel Lewis has 4 children from his first marriage to C. His first wife, C., is buried next to their daughter Nancy Ellen Lewis Ruble. Daniel's second wife was Aunt Nervie. Daniel died at Bismarck and is buried in Des Arc. Thinks there is a tombstone. (Information from Edna Ruble Sutton in March 1991)

!CENSUS

1880 census ...Union Township, Iron County, Missouri ...Daniel Lewis (age 26) and his mother were both born in Missouri. His father was born in Tennessee. Daniel is a laborer. Christina (age 37), his wife, and her parents were born in Virgina. Christina'soccupation is keeping the house. Daniel nor Christina can read or write. Daniel has a step daughter, Angeline (age 16), who was born in Missouri. Daniel has 4 children who were all born in Missouri: Laura (age 10), William (7), Maryann (4) and Oma (3). (NOTE: I believe that Laura and William were also step children as I think that Daniel and Christian were married in 1875)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

DES ARC ITEMS ...News of the death of Daniel Lewis at Bismarck reached here Monday. Mr. Lewis had reached an advanced age and was well known here and at Vulcan. (IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper... Ironton, Missouri ...July 2, 1931)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

DES ARC ITEMS ...The remains of Daniel Lewis were brought here for burial from Bismarck last Wednesday. (IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper... Ironton, Missouri ...July 9, 1931)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

DES ARC ...Daniel Lewis an old citizen of Vulcan, was buried here at our
cemetery one day this week. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Workman at the Pentecostal Church; and on the way from the funeral a coupe loaded with people ran into the road machine and one lady, a sister to Ed Ruble, was very badly hurt. (WAYNE COUNTY JOURNAL BANNER newspaper ...Piedmont, Missouri... July 9, 1931)

!OBITUARY
NEWS FROM BISMARCK

Daniel Lewis, aged 76 years, 3 months and 17 days, passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Geo. Miller, here on Monday of last week at 1 p.m. The deceased was born near Annapolis March 12, 1855, was a blacksmith by trade. He is survived by two sons,Ws. and Dan Lewis, of St. Charles, and one daughter, Mrs. Geo. Miller, of Bismarck. His wife and two daughters preceded his in death. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon with interment at Des Arc. (THE FARMINGTON NEWS newspaper ...Farmington, Missouri ...July 10, 1931)

!DEATH CERTIFICATE

Daniel Lewis was a white, male widower. He was born March 12, 1855 in Iron County, Missouri. His father, Benjamin Lewis, was also born in Iron County, Missouri. His mother was unknown. Daniel was a blacksmith. He died in Bismarck, St. Francois County, Missouri on June 29, 1931. He was 76 years, 3 months and 17 days old. Daniel's length of residence in Bismarck was one year. The informant was Daniel Lewis, Jr. of St. Charles, Missouri. It was filed July 10, 1931 by Dr. R.C. Kitchell.

Daniel was attended by E.M. Bryan, M.D., from June 6 to June 29, 1931. He died at 1 p.m. on June 29, 1931 of cardiac insufficiency which he had for 6 months. The contributory cause of death was myocarditis from which he suffered one year.

Daniel Lewis was buried in Des Arc, Missouri on July 1, 1931. The undertaker was C.J. Hill of Bismarck.
(Copy of death certificate in files of Linda Lewis on August 5, 1992)

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992.

Find A Grave Memorial# 103233985

In 1870 Census, he and his sister Nancy are living with uncle and aunt - Andrew and Angelina Lewis. Nancy and Daniel's parents - Benjamin and Naoma "Oma" Lewis died in 1863.

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 103233985

Daniel married Christianna Charlton on 28 Mar 1875 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Christianna was born on 17 Aug 1843; died on 07 Feb 1898 in , Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Iron County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Daniel married Minerva Jane Smith on 26 Jul 1895 in , Carter County, Missouri, USA. Minerva was born in Oct 1854 in , Wayne County, Kentucky, USA; died in Bef. 1930; was buried in Bef. 1930. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L4HK-KS7
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

!NOTES

Mary (Polly) Lewis was born around 1857. She married a Stevenson and then James Ruble. [Information from Loren Ruble ...Pevely, Missouri]

!NOTES

Polly was married twice. She had 2 families. Her first family was 1 boy and 2 girls. Her second family was 2 boys and ? girl (Information Written by Polly's niece, Lucy May Abrams Cole. A copy was sent to Linda Lewis by Bob Abrams in 1990)

!NOTES

Polly is buried at the Mountain View Cemetery at Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri. Her first husband, Franklin J. Stevenson, died between 1880 and 1896. Polly and Franklin had two children: Martha E. and Harp Stevenson. Polly was the sister of Nancy Lewis who married Franklin's brother Thomas B. Stevenson. They were the daughters of Naomi Huet (Hewitt/Hewit) and Benjamin Lewis.

Polly married James Ruble on September 26, 1886 at Iron County, Missouri after Franklin died. James Ruble's first wife was Mary Elizabeth 'Polly' Stevenson, Franklin's sister. James and Polly Lewis Stevenson had four children: Maude, James Jack 'Jackson',May and Walter L. Ruble.

Polly Lewis Stevenson Ruble's tombstone says she was born in 1855, but I believe the 1857 is correct based on the 1860 census showing her to be three years old.
(Source: STEVENSON FAMILY TREE compiled by R. Daniel Stevenson August 1992)

Children:
HARP STEVENSON
MARTHA E STEVENSON b. 1879


She also married 26 Sep in IRON COUNTY, MISSOURI, (136) JAMES RUBLE who was born 30 Dec 1847.

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992.

Find A Grave Memorial# 64371553
Courtesy Dan Stevenson:

Martha Polly (went by Polly) Lewis was the fourth of seven known children of Benjamin Lewis (1825-1864) who was born in Tennessee and died at Silvey, Wayne County, Missouri. Benjamin married Naomi Huet (Hewitt/Hewit) (1827-1863) who died at Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri. It is not known for sure where Naomi is buried. She may have been buried on their family farm and not in an established cemetery.

Polly married 1st to Franklin (Frank) J. Stevenson (b. 1855 in Iron County, Missouri; the son of Henderson C. Stevenson (1818-???) and Angeline McFadden Stevenson (1820-???). It is not known when or where Henderson or Angeline died. Frank died between 1883 (when his third child was born and 1886). Polly and Frank were the parents of three children, two girls and one boy, namely:

1. Martha Evalyn Stevenson Seal (1878-1974)
2. Hartford Stevenson (1880-1966)
3. Frankie May Stevenson Miller (1883-1983)

Links to these three children are listed below.

After Frank died, Polly remarried to James Ruble (1847-c1894) on 26 Sep 1886 at Iron County, Missouri. Polly and James were the parents of four children, two girls and two boys, namely:

4. Maude Ruble Pippin (1887-1969)
5. James Jack Ruble (1890-1956)
6. Daisy Jane Ruble Morgan (1891-1955)
7. Walter Lee Ruble (1894-1952)

Martha married Franklin J. Stevenson on 19 Dec 1875 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Martha married James Ruble on 26 Sep 1886 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. James was born on 30 Dec 1847; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: 242T-X95
• Name: Kizzy
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 105309218

unmarked grave

Kesiah married Andrew Ruble on 09 Sep 1877 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Andrew (son of Henry Ruble and Malinda Skiles) was born on 10 Nov 1857 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 13 Dec 1901 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: 2CF5-JCZ
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

!MARRIAGE LICENSE
STATE OF MISSOURI ...COUNTY OF IRON

This license authorizes any Judge, Justice of the Peace, Licensed or Ordained Preacher of the Gospel, or any other person authorized under the Laws of this State, to Solemnize Marriage between William Lewis of ______ County of Iron and State of No. who is over the age of twenty one years; and Mary Dace of ______ in the County of Iron and State of No. who is over the age of eighteen years.

Witness my hand as City (The rest was very difficult to read. The year 1882 could be read. A copy of the license is in the possession of Linda Lewis on 6/20/1990)

!NOTES

ABSTRACT OF TITLE
TO
Part N.E. 1/4 of SW 1/4 & Part SE 1/4 of NW 1/4 of Sec. 26, TWP. 31. R. 3 East.
Made for Henry Lewis


Elijah M. Moss and Kinney L.D. Moss, Warranty Deed
his wife,
Dated January 2, 1889
No. 11 Filed for record Feb. 2, 1889


Recorded in Book 32 Page 560
Iron County, No., Land Records
To Consideration $200.00
Acknowledged Jan. 2, 1889, before
William Lewis H.C. Hart, Notary Public, Iron
County, No. Seal noted.

Conveys the Northeast quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 26, Township 31, Range 3 East. (The fan in Sutton Hollow near Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri has been in the Lewis family since 1889. The Abstract of Title has changed several ties. No. 47 was when Alpha Lewis sold the land to her step son, Kenneth Brian Lewis, on November 4, 1980. Kenneth Brian Lewis is a grandson of William Lewis. The Abstract of Title is in the possession of Kenneth Brian Lewis in July 1992)

!NOTES
COLLECTOR'S STATEMENT OF TAXES FOR THE YEAR 1893

Ironton, No ...Jan 1894...Mr. Wm Lewis Jr ....Your taxes for 1893 mount to

$3.92 Please pay the same promptly before the 25 day of January 1894, and oblige
Yours Truly,
P.W. Whitworth,
Collector Iron County, No.

!MARRIAGE LISCENSE

Annapolis No., October 14, 1894 This Certifies that Mr. William Lewis of Iron County, Missouri and Miss Mary B Keathley of Des Arc No. were by me united in the HOLY BONDS OF MATRIMONY on the 14th day of October, 1894, at Tyler Keathly's Residence in Iron County, No.; that the License authorizing the same was issued October 12th 1894, by Joseph Huff, Recorded of Iron County, No.

John W. Alcorn
Minister of gospel
[License in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/2011990)

!LETTER
Van Buren, No.
8/20/95
Wm Lewis
Annapolis, Mo.

Dear Cousin:
In answer to yours of the 18th ____ will say that a portion of your
letter I cannot read. but I can read enough to make out that there is a kick by
you as to how the business has been wound up and that you refuse to accept the
amount due you:
There was $559.10 came into my hands as administrator this was from sale of property and interest I collected every cent due the estate--
After paying all debts and expenses then was left in my hands due the heirs the sum of $108.67; this divided into eleven parts, make $9.87 due each whole heir you get one sixth of $9.81 or $1.64 1/2 to each of your heirs; I am not going to be
(The second page of the letter is missing. The letter is in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/20/1990)

!CENSUS

1900 census ...Union Township, Iron County, Missouri ...William Lewis (age 38) was born Jan. 1862 in Missouri. His mother was also born in Missouri and his father in Tennessee. William is a farmer that owns a farm with a mortgage. William Lewis has been married for 6 years to Mary B. (age 22). Mary B. was born in May 1878 in Missouri. Her parents were both born in Tennessee. Mary has had 2 children and they are both living. William's four children were all born in Missouri. Bertha (age 15) was born Oct. 1884. Henry (age 19) was born Aug. 1890. Bessie (3) was born in June 1897 and Isom (age 1) was born in April 1899. Bertha and Henry both attended school for 5 months. Bertha, Henry, and Mary can read, write and speak English. William can speak English.

1910 Census ...Union Township, Iron County, Missouri ...William P. Lewis (52) was born in Missouri. His parents were both born in Tennessee. William is a farmer who has a mortgaged farm. He has been married to Belle M. for 17 years. They have 6 children. Belle (33) and her mother were born in Missouri. Her father was born in Kentucky. Their children were all born in Missouri: Bessie (13), Isom R. (11), Isaac E. (9), Martha M. (5), Myrtle (2) and Katie M. (2 months old). Bessie, Ises, and Isaac attended school during the year. William, Belle, Bessie and Isom can read, write and speak English.

1920 census ...Union township, Iron County, Missouri ...This census was enumerated on January 14, 1920 by We. 0. Huff. The home was on Hampton Branch Road. William P. Lewis (age 60) was the head of a household that listed 12 people. All of the people in the home were born in Missouri. William's hole was mortgaged and he worked on his own account as a farmer. His father was born in Tennessee and his mother in Missouri. William had three sons and four daughters listed: Isom R. (age 20); Edgar I. (age 18); Martha M. (15); Myrtle (age 11); Katy (age 9); Renna (age 6); and Benjamin (age 4 years and 7 months). William's wife, Mary B. (age 42), and his mother in law, Nancy J. Keathley (age 66) were also listed. Mary B.'s father was born in Kentucky. Nancy's father was born in Tennessee and her mother in Missouri. William's six year old grandson, Ralph Sutton, and William's twelve year old cousin, Raymond Lewis, were also residents. Ralph's and Raymond's parents were also born in Missouri. Martha, Myrtle, Kat

!LETTER
EDGAR & EDGAR ATTORNEYS
Ironton, No. April 13th, 1912
Mr. Wm. Lewis,
Annapolis, Mo.

Dear Sir:--

We have been employed by N. C. Sutton to obtain possession of certain lands belonging to his which you now hold. The County Surveyor has just completed the survey of Mr. Sutton's land and he finds that you have 10 or 11 acres of Mr. Sutton's within your enclosure. We now make formal demand of you for said lands. Please let us know at once what you intend to do about this.

Yours truly,
Edgar & Edgar

(Letter in possession of Linda Lewis on 6!20/1990)

!NOTES

William's parents died when he was young. He and his sister, Kizzie, were raised by an uncle.

!NOTES

The following stories about William “Punkin” Lewis were told to Opal Lewis by her father-in-law, Henry Lewis. Henry Lewis was about 90 years old when he told these stories.

As a boy Henry went to Manville, Arkansas (10 or 15 miles from Texanona) with his father to work in the timber, where there were forests of big yellow pine. Henry said his dad never smoked or drank. Punkin didn't do such joking, but he did get out in the yard and play with the kids. Punkin liked to go to church. He wore a beard in the winter and shaved it off in the summer, he usually had a mustach. Henry said one time he and Bill Palmer, a neighbor, were playing in the apple orchard and his dad had shaved off his beard. Punkin came up there to scare them. Bill didn't know his and ran. Henry picked up rocks and threw at Punkin. Henry just laughed when he told this story. Henry said his dad had 40 acres where Alpha lived.

One time Henry and another boy were playing anti-over and got in a fight. Their fathers were on the other side of the house and Henry had the boys nose bleeding. Their fathers nearly got in a fight over it. Henry and the boy couldn't play together the rest of the day.

When they were working in the timber, they had huge teams. Punkin Lewis was in the lead team and it would take all day to go 10 miles. Doc Buford owned the mill and he liked to have fun. He told Henry if he would scare the Negro real bad (the Negro drove one team and was always scared), that he would give him something, so he didn't go with them and Henry put a sheet over his head and nearly scared the Negro to death. The Negro jumped down and ran all the way in and told them that he had seen a ghost.

They had 4 teams and 4 mules to a wagon, this was when the city of Texanana was being made. When a factory, or big house was being built they furnished the green lumber. They also shipped alot out. Henry's father went down there to be in charge for Buford---6 days a week. James Buford owned the mill and Doc was in charge (overseer). Doc did finally buy in the Bill. They stayed down there 2 years once and one year another time.

He thought they were English, he didn't remember his mother, grandfather remarried and so did his father. He never knew his &others people. He didn't think they gee hawed to such.

His step mother was very good to his, he didn't feel his own mother could have been any better to his. While in Arkansas Henry made $1.25 a day and his dad kept a dollar so he got the quarter.

Henry's dad was called pumpkin. He said his dad raised the biggest pumpkins in his fields. Said he sold alot of them in Mandville, Arkansas for 25 cents each. They did not own land down there, just lived and worked down there.

Henry said his dad had black hair and it never turned grey but his beard was white. His sister had real black hair. His dad had what they called granulated sore eyes and had to go to the hospital for 2 weeks once. They rolled his eye lids with a roller and squeezed thee. Henry said his father said it really did hurt bad but he never made a sound. Said his dad was real strong and brave.

!OBITUARY
OLD RESIDENT GONE TO REST
Uncle William Lewis was born in Iron County Mar. 5, 1859, and died at his home near Annapolis July 10, 1933, age 74 years, 4 months and 5 days. He had been in bad health for years but just confined to his bed since last fall. He had been married twice, his first wife was Mary Dace. To this union were born five children, three of whom died in infancy. After her death he married Mary Bell Keathley and to this union were born eight children, all of whom survive him. He will be sadly missed by the whole community as he had lived most of the time since his marriage on the same place and everyone knew his as 'Uncle William.' He enjoyed company and was always
Well pleased when his friends and relatives case to see his. He was very patient in his suffering, but was anxious to die and be at rest.
He leaves to mourn the loss, a wife, 10 children, 30 grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends. His children are Mrs. Bertha Alcorn, Henry Lewis, Mrs. Martha Sherrill and Mrs. Myrthe Ruble, all of Annapolis. Mrs. Bessie Ruble and Edgar Lewis, of Vulcan, Isom Lewis, of Black River, and three children, Katie, Irene and Benjamin, and one grand-child, Ralph, at home. They have the sympathy of the whole community in their bereavement, but we know he is at rest, so why grieve? There is one waiting over yonder to welcome the dear ones home. A Friend.
[from newspaper clipping in possession of Linda Lewis.

!OBITUARY

William Lewis was born March 5 1859 departed this life July 10th 1933. He being 74 years, 4 months and 5 days old.
He was married to Mary Dace at an early age To this union 5 children were born Bertha Alcorn of Annapolis. Henry of Annapolis. Three of this Union precede him in death.
His first wife passed away in 1891. He then was married to Belle Keathley Oct 16th 1894. to this Union 8 children were born. Bessie Ruble of Vulcan, Issom of Piedmont, Edgar of Vulcan, Martha Sherrill of Annapolis, Myrtle Ruble of Annapolis, Katie Irene &Benjamin & Ralph a grandson at home with the mother. All of whom survive and also 30 grand children and a host of other relatives and friends who are left to mourn his death.
Uncle William as he was widely known was a sufferer for many years but bore his afflictions so patient until our Lord saw fit to call Him Home to be among the Redeemed. Uncle William will be sadly missed by all who knew Him.
[This is written on an old tablet and is yellowed with age. It is in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/20/1990]

!DEATH CERTIFICATE
William P. Lewis was born on March 5, 1861 in Annapolis, Missouri to Benjamin Lewis (also born in Missouri). William was married to Belle Keathley.
He died on July 10, 1933 in Union Township, Iron County, Missouri at the age of 72 years, 4 months and 5 days. He was a self-employed farmer. The cause of death was fibrosis of lungs. The informant was Henry Lewis of Annapolis, Missouri. Burial was in theAnnapolis Cemetery on July 11, 1933.


[Copy of death certificate in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/20/1990]

!LETTER
STATE OF MISSOURI
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE
DIVISION OF WELFARE
Ironton, Iron County, Missouri

November 6, 1947
Mrs. Belle Lewis
Annapolis, Missouri

Dear Mrs. Lewis:

This has reference to your letter of November 3 in regard to more assistance.

You are now receiving the maximum Old Age Assistance and Aid to Dependent Children grants.

The worker talked with your son after reinvestigating your case to see if he could help you with the support of his daughters. According to Mr. Lewis' statement, he is unable to render any financial assistance at this time.

We are sorry that you are having such a difficult time in meeting the girls' expenses, but you are receiving all the law will allow.

If you are dissatisfied with the amount of your grants, you have the right to appeal to the Director of the Department of Public Health and Welfare within 90 days from the time your cases were last reinvestigated. Forms for filing such an appeal may be obtained at this office if you should care to take such action.
Very truly yours,
Mrs. Carrie Mae Luna
Visitor

(Original letter in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/18/1990)

!NOTES

Belle learned to read and write after her marriage to William Lewis. Her step daughter's husband, Billy Alcorn, taught her. (Information told to Linda Lewis by Myrtle Ruble in June 1992)

!OBITUARY

Mary Belle Lewis, 74, died June 29 at her home near Annapolis. She had been ill for several months. She leaves the following children: Avery, Issom, Myrtle Ruble, Bessie, Edgar, Katie Clifford, Irene Williams, Benjamin, Martha Sherrill and Henry. Serviceswill be from the Union Church at Annapolis Friday at 2 p.m. and burial in the Annapolis cemetery with White Funeral Service.
[IRONTON MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper... Iron County, Missouri ...Thurs., June 30, 19551

!DEATH CERTIFICATE

Mary Belle Lewis was born September 17, 1879 in Annapolis, Missouri. She was the daughter of James Addison Keathley and Jane Asbury. Belle was the widow of William Lewis. She died in Union township, Iron County, Missouri at the age of 75 years, 9 months and 2 days on June 29, 1955. The information was supplied by Issom Lewis of Annapolis, Missouri. Belle was buried on July 1, 1955 in the Annapolis Cemetery in Iron County, Missouri.
(Copy of death certificate in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/19/1990)




Children:
153*BESSIE LEWIS b. Apr 1897 d. 25 Jun 1967
154* ISSOM RICHARD LEWIS b. 2 Jul 1899 d. 19 May 1976
155*EDGAR ISSAC LEWIS b. 19 Aug 1900 d. 21 Dec 1989
156*MARTHA MAE LEWIS b. 5 Jan 1905 d. 1 Feb 1987
157*MYRTLE LEWIS b. 8 Feb 1908
158*KATIE MARIE LEWIS b. 12 Feb 1910
159*ETHEL IRENE LEWIS b. 26 Mar 1913
160*BENJAMIN LEWIS b. 21 May 1915

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992.

Benjamin and Naoma Lewis's children were raised by two of his brothers and a sister:

From 1870 Census:

Willam Lewis and wife Abigail raised Nancy and William
Andrew Lewis and wife Angeline raised Martha Mary "Polly" (listed as Mary in 1870 Census) and Daniel

Elizabeth Lewis and her husband Thomas Jackson raised Naoma

It is not known who raised the other children:
(Neither in 1870 Census)

Elizabeth
Kesiah "Kizzy" married Andrew Ruble in 1877


Find A Grave Memorial# 133053509


Died:
Find A Grave Memorial #133053509

Buried:
Find A Grave Memorial #133053509

William married Mary Catherine Dace on 31 Dec 1882 in Ironton, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Mary (daughter of Allen Persinger Dace and Louisa Y. Ferrell) was born on 10 Feb 1864 in , , Missouri, USA; died on 15 Mar 1893 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

William married Mary Belle Keathley on 14 Oct 1894 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Mary (daughter of James Addison Keathley and Nancy Jane Asbury) was born on 17 Sep 1878 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 29 Jun 1955 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried on 01 Jul 1955 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3JP
• Name: Omey
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992.

!MARRIAGE LICENSE

STATE OF MISSOURI, COUNTY OF REYNOLDS ...This license authorizes any Judge, Justice of the Peace, licensed or ordained Preacher of the Gospel, or any other person authorized under the Lays of this State, To Solemnize Marriage between R. H. Abrams of the County of Reynolds and State of Missouri, who is over the age of twenty one years, and Naoma Lewis of the County of Reynolds and State of Missouri who is over the age of eighteen years.

Witness my hand as Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Recorder, with the seal of office hereto affixed, at my office in Centreville, the Ninth day of June 1888
B.F. Cozine, Clerk and Recorder.
By Joe. S. Carty, Deputy
***********************************************************************************************************

STATE OF MISSOURI, COUNTY OF REYNOLDS ...This is to certify, that the
undersigned did, at my office in said County, on the 10th day of June A.D. 1888, unite in Marriage the above named persons.

J. R. Myers, J. P.

***********************************************************************************************************

Filed for Record, this 5th day of July 1888, at 7 o'clock, a.m.

B.F. Cozine, Clerk and Recorder.
(Received from Bob Abrams in October 1989 by Linda Lewis)

!NOTES

Naoma (Lewis) and Henry Abrams were divorced in 1911. Supposedly Henry was mean to Naoma and even tried to give her trouble after they were divorced. One of her brothers is suppose to have come to her aid. (Information from their grandson, Richard Abrams,in 1988)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
Thursday, March 14, 1912

Annapolis News -- Mrs. Omay Abrams, near Vulcan, died week before last. Henry Abrams came from St. Louis last week and took the two smallest children back with him, and said he would care for the others if they wanted to come to him. Thursday, March 21, 1912

Annapolis News -- Henry Abrams made a trip to Annapolis the past week and forbid the administrator of Mrs. Abrams' estate selling certain property which he claimed as his own.

***********************************************************************************************************
ADMINISTRATOR'S NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, the letter of administration on the estate of Osay Abrams, deceased, were granted to the undersigned on the 6th day of March, 1912, by the Probate Court of Iron County, Missouri.

All persons having claims against said estate are required to exhibit them for allowance to the Administration within six months after the date of said letters, or they may be precluded from any benefit of said estate; and if such claims be not exhibited within one year from the date of the last insertion of the publication of this notice, they shall be forever barred.

This 6th day of March, 1912.

WM. P. LEWIS, Administrator.
***********************************************************************************************************
March 28, 1912

Annapolis News -- The sale of the Abrams' farm was well attended. Corn brought a dollar a bushel, and hay in the neighborhood of a dollar a bale. Everything brought a high price. (IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper ...Ironton, Iron County, Missouri)

!NOTES
Naoma (Omay) Lewis Abrams and three children (Eddie, Clarence, and Marie) are suppose to have been buried on the Abrams farm around Vulcan, Iron County, M0. (The place is also known as the old Jimmy Johnson farm.)

!NOTES

Aunt Oma Abrams was buried over in those hills where Edd Taley used to live up from Vulcan and some children, too. That is the only one that I know of that isn't buried in a grave yard.
(Written in a letter to Kenneth Brian Lewis in January 1992 by Myrtle Lewis Ruble.)

!NOTES Omay Lewis was married once and had 8 children (5 boys & 3 girls) (Information written by Omay Lewis Abrams' daughter, Lucy May Abrams Cole. A copy of the information was sent to Linda Lewis in 1990 by Bob Abrams)

!NOTES Rufus Henry Abrams was born in Georgia in 1854. His parents were Lewis D. Henry and Nancy America (Faulkner) Abrams. Lewis Abrams parents were William and Sarah Anne (McLemore) Abrams. Rufus Henry was married several ties. His wives were Ellen, Sarah Hampton, Amanda Cole and Naoma Lewis. He married Naoma Lewis in Reynolds County on June 10, 1888. They had eight children. Naoma and Henry Abrams were divorced in 1911. [Information supplied by Henry and Naoma Abrams grandson, Bob Abrams, in 1981

!NOTES Henry Rufus Abrams borned March 1860 his father name was also Henry Rufus I done no grandma name grandpa was a minister. they had 3 boys & 3 girls.
Henry that is my dad was married 4 time
John carried Jennie Meadows
3) one a blank
4) Elizabeth carried a Hamton
5) Mary married a Moss
6) Susana a Mead.


HENRY RUFUS ABRAM'S WIVES *

of the wemon I no their names but one I do not no she was the moher of my 3 half brothers: william abrams, charles abrams and jim abrams

2) Sarah hamton was the second
3) Cas Cole was the third

4) My mother Omay Lewis was no 4 to that union was borned 7 children Lucy May, Carl 8, George Lee, Eddie, Clarance, Ida Marie, ulyses cicioe, and Lillie viola they are all gone but me I as left all but for my own family

My half brothers was William charley & jaws James died before I was born. [This information case from Aunt Lucys granddaughter Janet Tolman – Delbert’s daughter. She got the information from the Morman Church in Salt Lake City. Aunt Lucy then put it down on paper] (The information was sent to Linda Lewis by Bob Abrams in 1990. It had been written by Lucy May Abrams Cole)

Children:
165*LUCY MAY ABRAMS b. 4 Sep 1889 d. 17 Nov 1984
166*CARL B ABRAMS b. 7 Nov 1891 d. 30 Jul 1962
167*GEORGE LEE ABRAMS b. 21 Jan 1894 d. 26 Nov 1968
168*EDDIE ABRAMS b. 29 Apr 1896 d. 1 May 1896
169*ULYSSES CICERO ABRAMS b 3 Sep 1898 d. 29 Aug 1955



Buried:
Abrams Farm

Naoma married Rufus Henry Abrams on 10 Jun 1888 in , Reynolds County, Missouri, United States, and was divorced in 1911. Rufus (son of Lewis David Henry Abrams and Nancy America Faulkner) was born on 16 Mar 1854 in , Wilkes County, Georgia, USA; died on 23 Dec 1917 in Toledo, Lucas County, Ohio, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MN52-XQR
• Created: 08 Jul 2016

Notes:

Charles Wesley Stevenson and Ollie Lewis are 2nd Cousins

Find A Grave Memorial# 138418692

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 138418692

Roseland Park Cemetery

Charles married Ollie Lewis on 30 Oct 1902 in Union Township, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Ollie (daughter of Francis Marion Lewis and Malinda Jane Jackson) was born on 20 Mar 1884 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 11 Jun 1967 in Trenton, Wayne County, Michigan, USA; was buried in Berkley, Oakland County, Michigan, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L2TS-259
• Created: 05 May 2021

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 104510297

Family/Spouse: George Owen Miller. George (son of George H. W. Miller and Mary Ann Watson) was born on 04 Jan 1874 in Minimum, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 8 Nov 1956 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Bismarck Masonic Cemetery, Bismarck, St. Francois, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L22J-8L6
• Name: Bill
• Created: 31 Jul 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 32135030

Family/Spouse: Mary Ellen Kohn. Mary was born on 13 Feb 1887 in Ellington, Reynolds County, Missouri, United States; died on 17 Mar 1963 in St. Charles, St. Charles County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: KCSG-ZTD
• Created: 31 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research courtesy Linda E. Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

!NOTES

Nancy Ellen Lewis married Milton Eugene 'Melt' Ruble. They had an infant who was born and died on August 5, 1904 and is buried in the Sutton Cemetery in Iron County, Missouri. They also had a daughter, Hazel E. Ruble who was born September 9, 1907. Hazel was a child when her mother, Nancy Ellen, died.

Nancy is buried in the Des Arc Cemetery near Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri.

!DEATH CERTIFICATE

Nancy Ellen Ruble was a married, white female. She was born in Missouri in 1883 and died on December 26, 1912 in Jackson township, Reynolds County, Missouri.

She was 29 years, 5 months and 22 days old. Nancy was a housewife and did general housework. Nancy's father was Daniel Lewis, who was born in Missouri. Her mother was unknown. The informant was Melt Ruble of Reynolds, Missouri. The certificate was filed on December 29, 1912 by A.F. Bigg.

A. D. Bugg, M. D., attended Nancy from August 29 to December 22, 1912. She died at 4 a.m. on December 26, 1912. The cause of death was pulmonary tuberculosis. Dr. Bugg signed the certificate December 29, 1912. His address was Corridon, Missouri.

Nancy was buried in Des Arc, Missouri on December 29, 1912. The undertaker was Daniel Lewis of Ellington, Missouri. (Copy of certificate in files of Linda Lewis in August 1992)


Died:
!DEATH CERTIFICATE

Nancy Ellen Ruble was a married, white female. She was born in Missouri in 1883 and died on December 26, 1912 in Jackson township, Reynolds County, Missouri.

She was 29 years, 5 months and 22 days old. Nancy was a housewife and did general housework. Nancy's father was Daniel Lewis, who was born in Missouri. Her mother was unknown. The informant was Melt Ruble of Reynolds, Missouri. The certificate was filed on December 29, 1912 by A.F. Bigg.

A. D. Bugg, M. D., attended Nancy from August 29 to December 22, 1912. She died at 4 a.m. on December 26, 1912. The cause of death was pulmonary tuberculosis. Dr. Bugg signed the certificate December 29, 1912. His address was Corridon, Missouri.

Nancy was buried in Des Arc, Missouri on December 29, 1912. The undertaker was Daniel Lewis of Ellington, Missouri. (Copy of certificate in files of Linda Lewis in August 1992)


Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 106174923

Nancy married Milton Eugene Ruble on 03 Feb 1900 in Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Milton was born on 28 May 1877 in Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 30 Mar 1943 in Ironton, Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Corridon & Reynolds Memorial Park, Reynolds County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: GCYD-CXM
• Created: 31 Jul 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 32244628

Daniel married Virgie Alice Cook on 13 Oct 1914 in , Reynolds County, Missouri, United States. Virgie was born on 15 Dec 1896 in , , Missouri, USA; died on 23 Aug 1965 in Saint Charles, Saint Charles County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery, St. Charles County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: 293G-TDB
• Name: Eva
• Name: Evie
• Created: 19 Aug 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 64371366

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: 293G-T15
• Name: Harp
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L4HK-K39
• Created: 09 Aug 2018

Notes:

Buried:
Find a Grave Memorial # 67192153

Frankie married Andrew Miller on 6 Apr 1902 in , Iron County, Missouri, USA. Andrew (son of Ulyssus Alonzo Miller and Lucy Margaret Seal) was born on 23 Jul 1881 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 4 Feb 1971 in Elsinore, Carter County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Iron County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: M8JJ-4BT
• Created: 19 Aug 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 66862940

Family/Spouse: John M. Pippin. John was born on 16 Feb 1876; died on 16 Feb 1953. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: K4D1-9MF
• Created: 19 Aug 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 64375798

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: KDSJ-YVM
• Created: 26 Sep 2014

Notes:

CENSUS
1920 census ... Union township, Iron County, Missouri ... This census was done on January 15, 1920 by Wm. 0. Huff, enumerator. The family lived on Big Creek Road. William H. Alcorn (age 40) was renting his home. He was working on his own account at farming. His wife, Bertha, was 36 years old. William's children were: Julia M. (age 16); Minnie B. (14); Lyman E. (12); Lena D. (6) and Mary D. (one year and 6 months). Julia, Minnie, Lyman and Lena had attended school since September 1, 1919. Everyone in the family could read and write except Mary D. Everyone in the family was born in Missouri. Bertha and William's parents were also all born in Missouri. Everyone in the family could speak English except Lena and Mary D.


Find A Grave Memorial# 24954910

Died:
OBITUARY
Mrs. Bertha Alcorn was born Oct 2, 1884, and departed this life
Apr 28, 1934. She was united in marriage to William H. Alcorn on Oct 26, 1902. To this union six children were born, one preceded her in death in infancy.
She leaves to mourn her demise a companion, W. H. Alcorn, and five children, Julia and Minnie, of Chicago; Lyman, of St. Louis; Lenna and Dolus, of Annapolis. Also a stepmother, Mrs. Bell Lewis. One brother, Henry Lewis, three half brother, Issom, Edgar and Benjamin Lewis, and five half sisters, Mrs. Bessie Ruble, Mrs Martha Sherrill, Mrs Myrtle (Ruble), and Misses Kate and Irene Lewis, and a host of relatives and friends.
She left her home about 8 o'clock Saturday morning going to her brother's home, Henry Lewis. As she was returning home she stopped at her sister's, Mrs. Avery Ruble. As she stood talking to her sister, she put her hand to the left side of her head saying,'Oh, Myrtle.' Myrtle replied, 'What is the matter? She said, 'I don't know.' which were her last words. There she fell suddenly with hemorrhage of the brain. She suffered five long hours, then the Lord called her home to reign with him throughout eternity.
She was converted and united with the Baptist Church at the Sutton school house in 1900 where she remained a faithful member until the Lord called her away.
Funeral services were conducted at the Union Church by Bro. White, Sermon preached by Rev. Joseph Alcorn and prayer by Sherman Sherrill.
She was laid to rest in the Annapolis Cemetery until the resurrection morning.
[From a newspaper clipping in possession of Linda Lewis 1-3-90)

Bertha married William Henry Alcorn on 26 Oct 1902 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. William was born on 16 Sep 1879 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 27 May 1950 in , St. Louis County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: K4X1-L3T
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research courtesy Linda E. Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

There is some dispute over the birth date for Henry Lewis. Some say he was 3 years old when his mother, Mary Dace, died. Others say he was 5 years old which would have made his date of birth in 1888. Henry had no middle name. [Information from Mrs. Delmar(Opal) Lewis, Henry's daughter-in-law.]

!CENSUS
1920 CENSUS ... Annapolis, Union township, Iron County, Missouri ... This census was enumerated on January 13 and 14, 1920 by Wm. 0. Huff. The home was on Big Creek Road. Henry Lewis (age 28) owned his home mortgage free. He worked on his own account atfarming. Henry's wife, Macey M., was 23 years old. Henry and Macey's parents were all born in Missouri. Henry's daughters were: Aldena D. (3 years and 2 months) and Neva H. (11 months old). Henry, Macey and the girls were all born in Missouri. Henry and Macey could read, write and speak English.

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
March 25, 1920... Henry Lewis has a nice little store on his farm.
February 18, 1932... Annapolis News... Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lewis lost their house and contents by fire last Friday morning.
(IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper ... Ironton, Missouri)

NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
THE SUPERINTENDENT'S CORNER
HENRY LEWIS' HOUSE BURNS
A report came to me Wednesday noon telling of the misfortune befalling the Lewis family. Some four years ago the house and furnishings of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis were consumed by fire. Only very recently Mr. Lewis built a new house and moved into it. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis had every reason to be proud of their new home when lo without warning it was reduced to ashes. The Lewis family could not afford to take this loss, and the spontaneous responsiveness of our community has indicated its unwillingness to permit them to bear the loss alone. The extent of assistance through funds goods, sympathy and from the multiplicity of sources indicate in no uncertain way that southern hospitality and neighborliness reigns in our community.
Sincerely,
F.L. Luttrell
(THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper ... Iron County, Missouri ... February 16, 1942)

!ANNIVERSARY
HENRY LEWISES MARK 50th ANNIVERSARY
On November 7, 1915, Henry Lewis and Macy Amsden were united in marriage at Des Arc by Rev. Joseph A. Alcorn, a Baptist minister. This was Rev. Alcorn's first marriage ceremony to perform. Seven children, four sons and three daughters were born to this marriage, all living and married. They now have 13 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
On November 7, 1965, they held Open House in the Basement of the First National Bank in Annapolis to celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary. All the children, in-laws, grandchildren, 2 grand in-laws and 3 great-grandchildren were present along with many other relatives and friends.
Henry and Macy wish to thank everyone who so graciously helped to make this a happy occasion as well as the Bank officials for granting the use of the basement.
(Copy of newspaper article in possession of Linda Lewis in March 1991)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
FIVE GENERATIONS OF LEWIS FAMILY
Five generations were here to celebrate the 88th birthday of Henry Lewis of Annapolis. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis are pictured here with four of their five great-grandchildren and their two great-great-grandchildren.
(THE NEWSPAPER ...Tues., Aug. 29, 1978... appears at the top of the newspaper article... copy in possession of Linda Lewis in March 1991)

!ANNIVERSARY
The Arcadia Valley Senior Citizens Recreation Building was the setting for the Sixty-Fifth Wedding Anniversary celebration of Henry and Macy Lewis, one of the resident couples of the housing apartments. Sunday, Nov. 9, was the date.
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis were one of the first couples to move into the apartments when they were finished in January, 1980.
The couple were very happy to have their friends and relatives in to help them celebrate the happy occasion.
They have seven children, 15 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Thirty-four descendants in all make Henry and Macy feel that they have a wonderful life together. All seven children are living. In fact all of the 34 descendants are living. There were two infants who died, one at birth and the other at 10 days.
Three of the sons retired from the military service. Until recently when the last son retired, there had been at least one of them in the service of his country continuously since 1940, before the second World War. Forty years of service to their countryis something the whole family has been extremely proud of, and of course, Henry and Macy are very proud that they had such a patriotic family.
Henry and Macy enjoy living at the Senior Citizens Housing Apartments and seem to have taken a new lease on life. Henry is 90 years young and Macy is 84. They enjoy being able to visit with the other residents of the apartments and they are relieved thatthey do not have all the hard work to do that they did when they lived on their farm in Annapolis, Mo.
Aldena Kimmell is the Lewis' oldest child. She and her husband, Robert, live in Arcadia. Neva Jackson is next to age to Aldena. She also lives in Arcadia. Aldena has two children, and Neva has one.
Delmar lives in Green Cove Springs, Fla. He is retired from the service. Frank lives at Annapolis and Willis in St. Louis. Mary Lou Conrad also lives in St. Louis, and Lawrence resides in Enterprise, Ala.
Lawrence and Delmar were not able to be here for the big celebration. They sent their love and wishes for many more years of happiness.
Delmar has two children, Frank has two, Willis has two, Mary Lou has three and Lawrence is the father of three.
Now, Henry and Macy, all of your descendants, relatives, friends and fellow residents wish you all the luck in the world and may you be around to celebrate another 65 years of wedded bliss. We hope to be around to help you celebrate it. Good luck and best wishes for the good life

(Copy of newspaper clipping in possession of Linda Lewis in March 1991)

Children:
ALDENA DELORES LEWIS b. 14 Oct 1916 d. 18 Jun 1992
NEVA BERN I CE LEWIS b .19 Jan 1919 d .22 Nov 1990
DELMAR HENRY LEWIS b. 19 Jul 1921
WILLIAM FRANKLIN LEWIS b. 18 Nov 1927
WILLIS GERALD LEWIS b. 2 Sep 1930
MARY LOUISE LEWIS b. 30 Sep 1933
LAWRENCE LEWIS b. 4 May 1938

Henry married Macy Myra Ansden on 07 Nov 1915 in Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Macy was born on 03 Sep 1896 in Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 20 Aug 1981 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried on 23 Aug 1981 in Annapolis Cemetery, Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L4HK-K46
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research notes courtesy of Lind Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, published Oct 1992:

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
VULCAN NEWS column ...Berlin and Carma Ruble, of St. Louis, visited their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Clell Ruble over the week end.
(IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper ...Ironton, Missouri ...Thurs., April 5, 1945)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
THIS WEEK'S ANNAPOLIS HAPPENINGS
Mrs. Clell Ruble (Bessie) passed away during the weekend. We extend deepest sympathy to her family.
(THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper... Ironton, Iron County, Missouri ...June 29, 1967)

THIS WEEK'S VULCAN TIDINGS
Our hearts were saddened Sunday by the death of Bessie Ruble, wife of Clell Ruble. She will be buried Tuesday at the Sutton Cemetery. Our sympathy goes out to the family. (THE MOUNTAIN ECHO...Ironton, Iron County, Missouri ...July 6, 1967)

!NOTES
Clell Ruble was the son of Thomas and Ada Belle (Mann) Ruble. His paternal grandparents were Henry and Malinda (Skiles) Ruble. Henry Ruble's parents were Joseph and Stacy (McCray) Ruble. Clell is buried in the Sutton Cemetery near Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri.

Bessie married Clell Alver Ruble on 30 Mar 1918 in Poplar Bluff, Butler County, Missouri, United States. Clell was born on 24 May 1897 in Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 31 Oct 1968 in Pevely, Jefferson County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: 245L-4NL
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research courtesy Linda Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

BIRTH CERTIFICATE
Issom Lewis applied for a delayed certificate of birth on May 25, 1945. Issom Richard Lewis vas born on July 2, 1899 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri. His parents, William and Mary Belle

!NOTES
REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE
To whom it may concern, Greetings:
These Presents Attest, That in accordance with proclamation of the President of the United States, and in compliance with law, Issom Richard Lewis of Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri has submitted himself to registration and has by me been duly registeredthis 12 day of September, 1918, under the supervision of the Local Board designated on the back hereof.
Chas E. Belch, Registrar
(card in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/21/1990)

!NOTES
War DepartmentProvost Marshal General
Local Board, Iron County, Missouri
Ironton, Missouri

Issom Richard Lewis
Annapolis, Missouri
Your serial number is 840 Order No. A954 Always refer to these numbers when writing. 107 men will be called for service about Nov. 11, 1918. You will be one of these. Exact date later. (Postcard in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/21/19901


!NOTES
ORDER OF INDUCTION INTO MILITARY SERVICE OF THE UNITED STATES
The President of the United States,
To Issom Richard Lewis Order Number A954 Serial Number 840
Greeting: Having submitted yourself to a local board composed of your neighbors for the purpose of determining the place and time in which you can best serve the United States in the present emergency, you are hereby notified that you have now been selected for immediate military service.
You will, therefore, report to the local board named below at Ironton, Missouri, at 2:00 p.m. on the 14th day of November, 1918, for military duty.
From and after the day and hour just named you will be a soldier in the military service of the United States.
Wm R Edgar J--
Member of Local Board for Iron County, Mo. Report to local Board for Iron County, Ironton, Missouri
Date November 6, 1918
[letter in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/21/19901

(**NOTE: World War I ended at 11 a.m. on November 11, 1918 when the armistice agreement was signed by the delegations.?


!LETTER
Mr. Issom Lewis December 29, 1919
Tinsman, Arkansas
Dear cousin How are you fine I Guess wish you a Merry x Has and a Happy New
Year when are you coming Back to old Missouri soon I hope tell Uncle C C
hello for me and Opal to also aunt anna would like to see you all the Best in
the wourld it has Been a Dull time here answer soon
From Edward Keathley Middle Brook
(Postcard in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/21/19901

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
FUNK BRANCH ITEMS column ...Mr. Issom Lewis and three boys were at Riverside Sunday. (THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper ...Annapolis, Iron County, MO ...June 12, 1942)

!MARRIAGE ANNOUNCEMENT
ANNAPOLIS HAPPENINGS
Wedding bells again! Mr. Issom Lewis and Alpha Middleton were married by Rev. D. Seal Friday. (THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper... Ironton, Iron County, Missouri ...May 6, 1948)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
The Mountain Echo is authorized this week to present the name of Issom Lewis of Annapolis as a candidate on the Democratic Ticket in the race for the Assessor of Iron County.
Mr. Lewis has lived most of his life in Iron County and was born and reared near Annapolis. He spent most of his life around there in timber work and faring.
His wife died many years ago and it was his job to rear his family of six children, which he did conscientiously and diligently. It may be said to his credit that his children have all attended high school and some of them gone on to college. They have grown to manhood and womanhood and are a credit to his and his teachings. One boy was killed in World War II.
Mr. Lewis is widely known and respected as a hardworking, soft spoken, honest man. He expects to carry his campaign to all parts of the county and wants to make many new friends in doing so. He says he is no fast talker but wants to meet everyone and present his case to the voters.
He is a man of good judgement and feels that he will be capable in the office of assessor if elected. He feels that it will be his duty to see every property owner and assess his property with his and do it fairly and justly.
He will appreciate the support and influence of the voters in the August primary election. (Newspaper clipping in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/21/1990)

!NOTES
Vote for ISSOM LEWIS Democratic Candidate for Assessor, Iron County, Mo. Primary Election, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 1956 Your Vote and Influence will be Sincerely Appreciated (Card in possession of Linda Lewis on 6121/1990)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES


VULCAN TIDINGS column... Issom Lewis is making some very good sorghum. He is selling it for $2.50 per gallon. (THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper ...Ironstone, Iron County, Missouri ...Sent. 18, 1958)


!OBITUARY
Issom Richard Lewis of Star Route, Annapolis, died May 19 at the University Hospital in Columbia, No. He was 76 years old. Funeral services were held May 21 at the Assembly of God Church in Vulcan with the Rev. Clarence J. Casteel officiating. Burial was in the Sutton Cemetery at Annapolis under the direction of White Funeral Hose.
Mr. Lewis was born July 2, 1899 at Annapolis, the son of William and Belle Keathley Lewis. He was a farmer.
He is survived by his wife, Alpha J. Lewis; five sons, Donald Lewis of Columbia, Kenneth Brian Lewis of Raytown, James Middleton of Geary, Okla., Sherman Lewis of Sales and Stanley Lewis of Geary, Okla.,; three daughters, Doris Dittmer of Sale, Betty Horine of Warrensburg and Darlene Brush of Kodiak, Alaska; four brothers, Henry of Annapolis, Edgar of Vulcan, Ralph of Annapolis and Benjamin of Leadwood; four sisters, Martha Sherrill of Annapolis, Myrtle Ruble of Sullivan, No., Katie Clifford of Annapolis and Irene Williams of Lemont, Pa.; 31 grandchildren; six great grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.
[THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper... Iron County, Missouri... 1976]



!FUNERAL HOME BROCHURE
In memory of Issom Richard Lewis who died on May 19, 1976 at the age of 76 years, 10 months, and 17 days. The funeral service was at 1:00 p.m. at the Vulcan Assembly of God Church. Interment was made at Sutton Cemetery.
(Copy of brochure in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/20/1990)



!BIRTH CERTIFICATE
Ruth Idell Radford was born at 8 a.m. on February 5, 1910 in Mill Spring, Wayne County, Missouri. Her father, John Radford (age 38), was born in Wayne County, Missouri. His occupation was rail road sec. hand. John and his wife live in Mill Spring, Missouri. The mother, Lucy Ann Frye (age 30), was born in St. Francois County, Missouri. She is a housewife. Ruth was Lucy's third child, but one is deceased.
I hereby certify that I attended the birth of this child, and that it occurred on Feb 5th, 1910, at 8 a.m.
R.J. Owens, M. D.
(Copy of birth certificate in possession of Linda Lewis in May 1983)


!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
MILL SPRING
Thursday, July 11, 1918...Ruth Radford of Vulcan is spending sometime with her father this week.
Thursday, May 15, 1919...Mrs. Nath Sutton and her niece, Miss Ruth Radford visited here last week.
(**Note: Ruth's father, John Radford, died the next week in Mill Spring.**)
Thursday, June 5, 1919...Miss Cleo Frye visited Miss Ruth Radford at Vulcan last week. [PIEDMONT WEEKLY BANNER newspaper ...Piedmont, Wayne County, Missouri]

FOURTH GENERATION

!NOTES
Teacher's report to District Clerk and County Superintendent:
(Dist. No. 42 County of Iron State of Missouri)

For the term beginning on the 7th day of August 1922 and ending this 23rd day of March 1923. Teacher Myra M. Keith Sutton School (near Vulcan, No.) Ruth Radford (SexF), Class A, year 8, No. days attended138, age 12. Grades final Promoted to 1st year highschool

IRON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Statement of grades of Ruth Radford Class A-1
Reading and Literature--88 Spelling--93 Grammer--92 Arithmetic--70
U. S. History and Civil Government--80 Geography--80
Agriculture--78 Physiology--87

Grades are made on work as outlined in the State Course of Study.

Two years are spent in the A Class. Pupils take the final examination at the close of each year. You are classified as 'A1' the first year and 'A2' the second year.
These Grades should be recorded in the Teacher's Register belonging to the School District.
Very Respectfully, Yours,
GW Hanson, Superintendent
!MARRIAGE LICENSE
State of Missouri, County of Iron:

This license authorizes any Judge of a Court of Record or Justice of the Peace, or any Licensed or Ordained Preacher of the Gospel, who is a citizen of the United States, or who is a resident of and a pastor of any Church in this State, to SOLEMNIZE MARRIAGE between Issom Lewis of Annapolis in the County of Iron and State of Missouri who is over the age of twenty-one years, and Ruth Radford of Annapolis in the County of Iron and State of Missouri who is over the age of 21 years

Witness my hand as Recorder of Deeds, with the seal of office hereto affixed, at my office in Ironton, Missouri, this 8th day of November, 1924.
By Josie D. Hawkins, Deputy J. M. Hawkins, Recorder of Deed.

State of Missouri, County of Iron ss.

This is to certify that the undersigned a Justice of the Peace at
Annapolis did, at My home in said County, on the ninth 9th day of November A.D.
1924 unite in Marriage the above named persons. And I further certify that I
as legally qualified under the laws of the State of Missouri, to solemnize
Marriages. Sylvester Kitchell, Justice of the Peace
at Annapolis, Iron County, and State of Missouri.

The foregoing Certificate of Marriage was filed for record in my office on
the 16th day of November A.D. 1924
By Josie 0. Hawkins, Deputy J.M. Hawkins, Recorder of Deeds.
[copy in files of Linda Lewis on 6/23/19901
(**NOTE: Ruth was actually only 14 years 9 months old when she was married.**}

!NOTES

Issom and Ruth (Radford) Lewis had a baby born on April 13, 1933 and it died on April 16, 1933. The baby is buried in Sutton Cemetery in Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri.


!NOTES

Ruth Radford was listed twice on the 1920 census. She was listed in the home of Nath Sutton as his ten year old niece. Ruth vas also listed in the home of Sherman Sutton as his nine year old cousin.

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

The funeral of Mrs. Lewis, wife of Issom Lewis, was held at Vulcan last Thursday with interment in the Sutton cemetery. The deceased is survived by her husband, and six small children, two daughters and four sons. [IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper...Missouri...Thursday, October 8, 19361 (**NOTE: Should read 3 sons and 3 daughters**}

!TOMBSTONE
Ruth 1. Lewis born Feb. 7, 1910and died Sept. 30, 1936 is buried in the Sutton Cemetery near Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri.
(photo of tombstone in files of Linda Leis on 6/23/19901
(NOTE: Birth certificate states she was born on Feb. 5, 1910)

Children:
514*WILLIAM ROBERT RADFORD LEWIS b. 18 Dec 1924 d. 4 Apr 1945
515*DONALD RICHARD LEWIS b. 15 Sep 1926
516*KENNETH BRIAN LEWIS b. 27 May 1928
517*DORIS JEAN LEWIS b. 1 Apr 1'330
518*HETTY RUTH LEWIS b. 16 Jun 1931
519*JOYCE DARLENE LEWIS b. 25 Sep 1934
520*JOHN EUGENE LEWIS b. 17 Apr 1936 d. 26 Jul 1936

He also married 22 Apr 1948 in ANNAPOLIS, IRON COUNTY, MISSOURI, (521) ALPHA JANE ANDERSON, daughter of GEORGE FRANKLIN and OLLIE JANE (ASBERRY) ANDERSON, who was born 23 Sep 1917 in ELLINGTON, REYNOLDS COUNTY, MISSOURI. ALPHA JANE was also married to FREEMAN SIMPKINS MIDDLETON.

!NOTES

I was married to my first husband, Freeman Middleton, for eleven years. We were married in the house of the Justice of the Peace near Ellington, M0. We had one son, Jimmy Ray. I married Issom Lewis in the Rev. Drew Lewis house in Annapolis, Missouri. My second husband, Issom Lewis, and I lived on the Pierson farm when we were first married. He then bought the Connor place. Next we traded Granny (Belle Leis) our house in town for her farm in Sutton Hollow. The rest of our years together were spent there inthe red house, log cabin and then the trailer. We celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary with a small party on the lawn of the red house. (Information told to Linda Lewis by Alpha Anderson Lewis in October 1982)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
ANNAPOLIS / VULCAN NEWS

Former resident Alpha Lewis, now of Piedmont, celebrated her birthday Sept. 23. Her brother from St. Louis and her sister-in-law from Springfield case to help celebrate. We add happy wishes to you.

(WAYNE COUNTY JOURNAL BANNER newspaper ...Piedmont, NO ...September 26, 1991)





Died:
Issom Richard Lewis of Star Route, Annapolis, died May 19 at the Universiy Hospital in Columbia, Mo. He was 76 years old. Funeral services were held May 21 at the Assembly of God Church in Vulcan with the Rev. Clarence J. Casteel officiating. Burial was in the Sutton Cemetery at Annapolis under the direction of White Funeral Home.
Mr. Lewis was born July 2, 1899 at Annapolis, the son of William and Belle Keathley Lewis. He was a farmer.
He is survived by his wife, Alpha J. Lewis; five sons, Donald Lewis of Columbia, Kenneth Brian Lewis of Raytown, James Middleton of Geary, Okla., Sherman Lewis of Salem and Stanley Lewis of Geary, Okla.,; three daughters, Doris Dittmer of Salem, Betty Horine of Warrensburg and Darlene Brush of Kodiak, Alaska; four brothers, Henry of Annapolis, Edgar of Vulcan, Ralph of Annapolis and Benjamin of Leadwood; four sisters, Martha Sherrill of Annapolis, Myrtle Ruble of Sullivan, Mo., Katie Clifford of Annapolisand Irene Williams of Lemont, Pa.; 31 grandchildren; six great grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.
[THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper...Iron County, Missouri...1976]

Issom married Ruth Idell Radford on 09 Nov 1924 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Ruth was born on 05 Feb 1910 in Mill Spring, Wayne County, Missouri, USA; died on 30 Sep 1936 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Issom married Alpha Jane Anderson on 22 Apr 1948 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Alpha was born on 23 Sep 1917 in Ellington, Reynolds County, Missouri, United States; died on 16 Jun 2002 in Piedmont, Wayne County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Murphy Cemetery, Reynolds County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: K8XW-22K
• Created: 24 Jul 2015

Notes:

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
Recorder Hawkins issued the following marriage licenses the past week:
Edgar Lewis and Macy Charlton of Annapolis.

(IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper... Ironton, Missouri ...March 18, 1920)

!MARRIAGE ANNOUNCEMENT
Edgar Lewis and Racy Charlton, both of Iron county, were united in marriage at the home of the bride's brother, Henry Lewis, near Annapolis, Sunday evening, March 14th at 5 o'clock, S. Kitchell officiating. Among the guests were Vincent Sutton and family,Mrs. Ida Jackson and family and several others. (IRON COUNTY REGISTER newspaper... Ironton, Missouri ...March 25, 1920)

!LETTER
PAUL C. SUTTON
Clerk of the Iron County Court
IRONTON, MISSOURI

March 13, 1935
Dear Edgar:
I can get the $250 for your mother all right as soon as Henry makes the deed to her let me know and I will have the court to grant the loan.

The place will have to have an abstract made to date.

I certainly am glad to see her get to stay on her place and not have to leave. Hoping you get everything in good shape, I am
Your friend
Paul C. Sutton
(Original letter in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/18/1990.)

!FUNERAL BROCHURE

In Loving Memory of Edgar I. Lewis, born Aug. 19, 1900, Iron County, No. Died Dec. 21, 1989, Piedmont, No. Place & Time of Service, Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont, Mo., Sunday Dec. 24, 1989, 2:00: P.M., Clergymen Rev. Jerry Cuneio, Rev. James L. Higbee., Interment John Ruble Cemetery. (Copy of brochure in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/13/1990)

!OBITUARY
Edgar I. Lewis, 89, died Dec. 21 [19891 in Clark's Mountain Nursing Center in Piedmont. Born in Iron County on Aug. 19, 1900, he was the son of William and Belle Lewis.

He was united in marriage to Macy Charlton on March 13, 1920 and to this union 10 children were born.
Survivors include his wife; one son, Garland Lewis of New Athens, Ill.; five daughters, Thelma Boatwright of Piedmont, Imogene Matthews of Flat River, Glenda Matthews of O'Fallon, Dessie Bone of Bonne Terre, Donna Higbee of Morrilton, Ark.; two brothers, Benjamin Lewis of Leadwood, Ralph Lewis of Annapolis; three sisters, Myrtle Ruble of Sullivan, No., Katie Clifford, Troy, No., Irene Williams of Pennsylvania; 25 grandchildren, 56 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were his parents and four sons, Lindell, Devern, Marshall and Robert Lewis.
He was of the Protestant faith.
The funeral was at 2 p.m. Dec 24 in the Ruegg Funeral Home in Piedmont. The Reverends Jerry Cunio and James L. Higbee officiated. Music was solos by Merrill Womach tapes.

Pallbearers were Ronald Lewis, Dennis Matthews, Preston Matthews, Terry Lewis, Mike Boatwright and Mark Lewis. Honorary pallbearers were Eddie Lewis and Lindell Lewis. Burial was in the John Ruble Cemetery at Vulcan. [WAYNE COUNTY JOURNAL BANNER newspaper...Piedmont, Wayne County, Missouri ...December, 28, 19891

!LETTER
United States Department of the Interior
Board on Geographic Names
Reston, Virginia 22091

Domestic Geographic Name Report
Recommended name Lewis Mountain
Proposed New Name
State: Missouri
County: Iron
Lat. 37 17 30 N Long. 90 42 00E Center
Section 12 Township 30N Range 3E 5th Meridian Elevation 800+ ft.

Is the feature identified in the USGS Geographic Names Information System? no
Type of feature: Mountain
Description of feature: The feature is a mountain area about 1/4 mile wide by
1 mile long. One end of the mountain is located in the center of section 11
and runs southwest into section 10. It lies south of 'Brushy Hollow'.
Name origin and/or historical significance, biographical data (commemorative name), meaning of the recommended name, and/or statement concerning nature of difference in usage or application:
The name of the mountain commemorates Edgar I. Lewis (1900-1989). His father and mother William Lewis and Belle (Keathley) Lewis helped settle the area. Edgar lived/owned land in Vulcan most all his life. Edgar farmed and raised nine children on about 150acres located on west side of section 11, township 30N. As a young man he worked in the short-lived Annapolis lead mine after World War I. In later years, he worked and retired (1962) from the St. Joseph Lead Co. Part of the mountain was owned by him at the time of his death. He was well known and well respected in Vulcan and surrounding area.

FOURTH GENERATION

Is the recommended name in local usage? yes
If yes, for approximately how many years? Unknown
Is there local opposition to, or conflict with the recommended name (as located)? no
For proposed new name, please provide evidence that feature in unnamed:
See attached copy 7 1/2' Geological Survey Map.
******************************************************************************************************
Authority for Recommended Mailing address Yrs in Occupation
Name area
******************************************************************************************************
Kenneth W. Ruble 250 S. Main 47 Iron Co. Sheriff
Ph:3145467549 Ironton, Mo. 63650
David Huff P.O. Box 69 33 Iron Co. Assessor
Ph:3145984522 Annapolis, No. 63620
Clyde M. Reed Star Route 70 Retired, Farmer
Ph:3145984366 Vulcan, No. 63675
******************************************************************************************************
Submitted by: M. Homer Lewis Occupation:School Principal Date: 2-12-92
Address/Tel. P. O. Box 157 Vulcan, No. 63675 (314) 598-3357

(Copy of application sent to Kenneth Lewis in February 1992 by M. Homer Lewis)

!NOTES
Macy Charlton was the daughter of Randy (Dobbs) and Ira Charlton.

!OBITUARY
Macy Lewis, age 89, died in Camelot Nursing Home, Farmington, on Feb. 12. She was born in Redford Oct. 20, 1902, daughter of Ira and Randy Charlton.

She was united in marriage to Edgar I. Lewis on March 13, 1920 and he preceded her in death on December 21, 1989.

Surviving are one son, Garland Lewis of New Athens,11.; five daughters, Thelma Boatwright of Piedmont, Imogene Matthews of Flat River, Glenda Matthews of O'Fallon, Dessie Bone of Bonne Terre, Donna Higbee of Morrilton, Ark.; one brother, Amuel Charlton ofAnnapolis; six sisters, Daisy Smith and Wilma Johnson both of Piedmont, Gladys Moss of Des Arc, Opal Ruble of Vulcan, Verna Stogsdill and Juanita Campbell both of St. Louis; 25 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were four sons, Marshall, Devern, Robert and Lindell Lewis; one brother, Manuel Charlton; and three sisters, Effie Fancher, Marie Stevenson and Alpha Ruble.
Mrs. Lewis was a member of Full Gospel Church of Vulcan.
The funeral was held Feb. 16 at 1 p.m. in the Ruegg Funeral Hose, Piedmont. Rev. Jerry Cuneio officiated. Music was by Glendell Twidwell, with Jeanette Wohlschlaeger, pianist.

Pallbearers were Homer Lewis, Lindell Lewis, Mark Lewis, Eddie Lewis, Terry Lewis, Ronnie Lewis, Preston Matthews, Dennis Matthews and Kerry Lewis.
Burial was in the John Ruble Cemetery. (WAYNE COUNTY JOURNAL BANNER newspaper ...Piedmont, Wayne County, Missouri... Thursday, February 20, 1992)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
FOURTH GENERATION

We extend heartfelt sympathy to the family of Mrs. Macey Lewis, whose services were held recently at Piedmont Chapel. Burial vas in the Ruble Cemetery. Macey vas a life long area resident and was loved by everyone. Be in prayer and deed for this family. (THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper... Ironton, Iron County, Missouri ...March 18, 1992)

Children:
525*THELMA LEWIS b. 9 May 1921
526*IMOGENE LEWIS b. 14 Sep 1922
527*MARSHALL HOMER LEWIS b. 12 Nov 1924 d. 11 Mar 1982
528*DEVERN LEWIS b. 13 Apr 1927 d. Apr 1978
529*GLENDA LEWIS b. 30 Nov 1928
530*DESSIE LEWIS b. 28 Mar 1931
531*ROBERT RAY LEWIS b. 7 Oct 1933 d. 18 Jun 1986
532*GARLAND BUD LEWIS b.10 Aug 1936
533 LINDELL LEWIS d. 10 Dec 1938
534*DONNA S LEWIS b. l Jul 1940


Buried:
Find a Grave Memorial # 86186104

Edgar married Macy Charlton on 13 Mar 1920 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. Macy was born on 20 Oct 1902 in Redford, Reynolds County, Missouri, USA; died on 12 Feb 1992; was buried in John Ruble Cemetery, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: KDY1-868
• Created: 24 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research courtesy Linda Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

!ANNIVERSARY
SHERRILLS CELEBRATE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

On Sunday afternoon, December 19, Mr. and Mrs. Luther Sherrill of Annapolis, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with open house given by their children at the City Hall Building.
The Hall was decorated in yellow and white streamers with white wedding bells.
The family members in attendance were:
Mr. and Mrs. Arvel Pierson, of Annapolis, and their family, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Pierson, Kimberly and Scott; Mr. and Mrs. Jim Jackson (Anita), and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Naumann (Brenda), David and Jodi, all of St. Louis.
Mr. and Mrs. Verl Sherrill and their family, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Dean (Judy) and Robbie, and Miss Debbie Sherrill, all of Annapolis.
Mr. and Mrs. Durll Sherrill of Imperial and their family, Airman First Class and Mrs. Gary Sherrill, of Topeka, Kansas, and Mr. David Sherrill of Imperial, and his fiancée, Miss Sharon Wichmer, of Arnold.
Mr. and Mrs. Jerald Sherrill and sons, Donald, Steve and Shawn, of Arnold.
Harl Sherrill was unable to attend due to his being in the U. S. Navy and is now on sea duty, but his wife, Elizabeth, of Flat River, was there.
There were about 100 friends and relatives who came by to wish Mr. and Mrs. Sherrill a happy 50th anniversary.
The guests were served punch and coffee along with the beautiful three-tiered wedding cake, decorated with yellow roses, gold leaves and white wedding bells. The lovely cake was baked and decorated by their daughter-in-law, Mrs. Jerald Sherrill.
The happy couple received many lovely gifts and many thoughtful cards of congratulations. The happy reunion of family and friends on this dry will long be remembered by the Sherrills.
(Thursday, December 30, 1971...Clipping in possession of Linda Lewis on 6/311990)

!OBITUARY
Services for Martha Mae Sherrill, 82, Annapolis were held Tuesday, Feb.. 3, 1987, at 2 p.m. at the Happy Zion General Baptist Church, under the direction of Bryson Funeral Home, Pilot Knob.
Mrs. Sherrill died Feb. 1, 1987, at Arcadia Valley Hospital Extended Care facility.
The Rev. Rick Broadway and the Rev. Marc Renicke officiated. Glenda Sutton was organist and Wanda Sutton was pianist. The Sutton Family sang, 'One Dry at a Time.' Soloist Carletta Sherrill sang 'Just a Closer Walk with Thee,' and 'Amazing Grace.'
Pallbearers were Richard Pierson, Gary Sherrill, David Sherrill, Rob Dean, Don Sherrill, Don Sherrill and Randy Sherrill. Burial was in Annapolis cemetery. Contributions may be made to Happy Zion Church or Annapolis Cemetery funds.
Mrs. Sherrill was born in Texarkana, Texas, on Jan 5, 1905, daughter
of William Lewis and Belle Keathley Lewis. She grew up in Annapolis and lived there all her life. On Dec. 18, 1921, she married Luther S. Sherrill. She was a homemaker and was a member of the New Peace and Harmony General Baptist Church.
Preceding her in death were her parents, husband, one infant daughter, Rita; two brothers, Issom and Henry Lewis; two sisters, Bertha Alcorn and Bessie Ruble; one great grandson, Michael D. Sherrill.
Survivors include five children, Mrs. Verena Pierson, Verl Sherrill, Durll Sherrill, all of Annapolis, Jerald Sherrill, Arnold, and Hurl Sherrill, Glasgow, Ky.; three brothers, Ralph Lewis, Annapolis, Edgar Lewis, Vulcan, and Benjamin Lewis, Leadwood; three sisters, Myrtle Ruble, Sullivan, Katie Clifford, Troy, and Irene Williams, Lemont, Pr.; 12 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and a host of relatives and friends.
(THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper ... Iron County, Missouri ... Wed., Feb. 11, 1987)

VERENA BERNICE: SHERRILL b. 9 Oct. 1924
VERL SHERRILL b. 10 Jul 1996
WILLIAM DURLL SHERRILL b. 7 Feb 1929
JERALD SHERRILL b. 7 Feb 1935
RITA MAE SHERRILL b. 20 Oct 1947 d. 20 Oct 1947
HARL L SHERRILL b. 23 Sep 1949

Martha married Luther Sylvester Sherrill on 18 Dec 1921. Luther was born on 03 Mar 1900 in Glover, Iron County, Missouri, United States; died on 06 Dec 1974; was buried in Annapolis Cemetery, Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRCQ-3XM
• Created: 24 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research courtesy Linda E. Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

!NOTES
Myrtle Lewis Ruble was born in Mandeville, Arkansas. She attended Sutton School near Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri. Myrtle was married in Ironton, Missouri on her 19th birthday, February 8, 1927. Myrtle worked in Annapolis, Missouri doing general work at McLane's Grocery Store and then at the school lunch room. She also took in washings for people and washed quilts for 25 cents each on a wash board.
[Information told to Linda Lewis by Myrtle Lewis Ruble in 1982.]
!LETTER
Sullivan, No. Jan. 10, 1992
Brian,
I as going to write you a little story I don't think you have ever heard.
We bought that house and lot at Annapolis in 1940, I think. The lot was 50 feet by 150 ft. Avery was carrying the mail at that time. And he didn't make very such money as he had to bid it down so low to get the mail route.
We paid $350.00 for the house and lot and paid a little over $17.00 a month until we got it paid for (seemed like a life time).
We lived there about 10 years then we moved to the Vulcan tower, then we moved to Sullivan.
We have been living in Sullivan 37 years. We moved here in July after Paul died in April 1955.
We sold the house and lot for $2000.00 cash and thought we were rich. Do you like stories like this? Jim does.
Love,
Aunt Myrtle
(This was part of a letter written by Myrtle Lewis Ruble to Kenneth Brian Lewis)
Children:
HELEN IRENE RUBLE b. 12 Jul 1931
JAMES ADRIAN RUBLE b. 8 Sep 1935

Myrtle married James Avery Ruble on 08 Feb 1927 in Ironton, Iron County, Missouri, USA. James (son of James Andrew Ruble and Lucy Nellie McCormick) was born on 29 Nov 1903 in Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 20 Dec 1976 in Sullivan, Franklin County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRCQ-965
• Created: 24 Jul 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 32814066

Research courtesy Linda E. Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

!NOTES
Katie worked at Ironton, Missouri at the Baptist Home for a few weeks. (Information from Irene Lewis Williams, Katie's sister)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
SUTTON HOLLOW HOLLOWS column ... Mrs. Everett Clifford and daughters visited with her mother, Mrs. William Lewis.
(THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper ... Annapolis, Iron County, NO ... July 31, 1942)
!NOTES


Children:
JOYCE YVONNE CLIFFORD b. 27 May 1938
RUBY JEAN CLIFFORD b. 18 Feb 1940
JANICE ANN CLIFFORD b. 9 Apr 1942
JUDITH LYNN CLIFFORD b. 5 Jun 1945


Died:
Katie Marie Clifford, 98, died Dec. 24, 2008, at Stockhoff Nursing Home in Fredericktown, Mo.
She was born Feb. 12, 1910, in Annapolis, Mo., daughter of the late William and Mary Bell(Keithley) Lewis.
She was united in marriage to Everett Clifford Sept. 12, 1937, and he preceded her in death Dec. 5, 1977.
Mrs. Clifford was a homemaker and a member of the Des Arc First Baptist Church.
She is survived by three daughters, Joyce (Paul Vernon) Lewis, Fredericktown, Ruby Jean (Ed) Kelsey, Everett, Wash., Judy Lynn (Gary) Johnson, Troy; one sister, Myrtle Ruble, Sullivan; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one daughter, Janice Ann David; four brothers, Isom, Edgar, Benjamin and Ralph Lewis: three sisters, Bessie Ruble, Martha Sherrill and Irene Williams.
The funeral was held Dec. 27 at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont, with Rev. Tim Adams officiating.
Pallbearers were Mike Lewis, Mike Silverberg, Rich Plume, Keith Reynolds, Gary Johnson Jr. and Terry Johnson. Honorary pallbearers were Keith Lewis and Alex Reynolds. Burial was in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan.

Katie married James Everett Clifford on 12 Sep 1937 in Annapolis, Iron County, Missouri, USA. James (son of James M. Clifford and Malinda Elizabeth Ruble) was born on 03 Oct 1903; died on 05 Dec 1977; was buried on 07 Dec 1977 in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRCQ-9F7
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Children:
LEONARD FRANKLIN WILLIAMS b. 17 Apr 1941
RUTH DARLENE WILLIAMS b. 17 Jul 1943


Research courtesy Linda E. Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

!NOTES
Irene attended Sutton School in Iron County, Missouri. Two of the teachers Irene had were Annie Lewis and Beulah Dice.
Irene helped care for her nieces and nephews after their mother died. One time her brother, Issom, gave her two pigs for helping with his children. When Irene got home her mother, Belle Lewis, made her give one of the pigs to her sister, Katie. She cried because she had to give up one of her pigs. Irene went to Ironton and used the pig to buy her first brand new coat. (Stories told by Irene Lewis Williams in August 1992)

Ethel married Leonard Zachariah Williams on 08 Jul 1940. Leonard was born on 03 May 1914 in Lemont, Centre County, Pennsylvania, USA; died on 03 Sep 1985 in State College, Centre County, Pennsylvania, United States; was buried in Houserville Cemetery, Centre County, Pennslyvania, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRCQ-M12
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 37396884

Research courtesy Linda E. Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
SUTTON HOLLOW HOLLOWS column ... Mr. and Mrs. Ben Lewis and family from Lesterville spent a few days last week with his mother, Mrs. Wm. Lewis. (THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper ... Annapolis, Iron County, NO ... July 31, 1942)
!ANNIVERSARY
The pleasure of your company is requested on the Fiftieth Anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Lewis on June 22, 1986 at 1:00 o'clock to 4:00 o'clock at Desloge City Park Desloge, MO
Lunch served Cake cutting at 2:00 p.m. Bring lawn chair if desired.
We thank you friends and neighbors and relatives so dear for your congratulations and for your presence here.
The memories of these happy hours you've shared with us today will linger on throughout the years and even with us today
Ben and Marie
June 25,
1936 - 1986
(Copy of invitation in files of Linda Lewis in July 1991)

!NEWSPAPER ARTICLES
154 ATTEND LEWIS FAMILY REUNION
The annual reunion of the William Lewis descendants was held July 7 at the William Lewis homeplace in Sutton Hollow near Annapolis. A total of 154 friends and relatives from as far away as Florida and South Carolina met at noon for a short meeting, basket dinner, and an afternoon of visiting.
Special honored relatives were presented calendars featuring the original old log barn on the fare with birthdays and anniversaries of William Lewis's children and grandchildren. Those receiving calendars were: Myrtle Ruble, Katie Clifford, Alpha Lewis, Ralph Lewis, Macy Lewis, Irene Williams, and Marie Lewis. This year, William's youngest son, Ben, and his wife Marie, were honored on the occasion of their 55th anniversary. Ben married Marie England of Annapolis on June 25, 1936. They have spent most of their married life at Leadwood, Mo. where they raised a family of four girls and five boys. Eight of their children plus 31 other family members were present at the reunion.
Ben and Marie were presented a money tree, gifts, and a beautiful three-tier wedding cake.
This was the 6th annual reunion and attendance has increased from 45 in 1985 to 154 in 1991. Several members are working on genealogy and brought materials and pictures to share. Next Year the Lewis reunion will be held on Sunday, July 5 at the William Lewis homeplace.
(WAYNE COUNTY JOURNAL-BANNER newspaper ... Piedmont, Missouri ... July 25, 1991)

!NOTES
Marie (England) Lewis is the daughter of William Alvie and Gracie Elizabeth (Wadlow) England. Her parents were married on June 25, 1936. Her mother passed away in 1972.

Children:
*ANNETTE LEWIS b. 22 Sep 1937 d. 23 Sep 1937
*DORETTE LEWIS b. 22 Sep 1937 d. 25 Sep 1937
*GRACIE ALENE LEWIS b. 13 Nov 1939
*MARY ANN LEWIS b. 3 Jan 1941
*JAMES ALFRED SONNY LEWIS b. 9 Oct 1942
*BILLY DALE LEWIS b. 30 Jun 1944
*BOBY EUGENE LEWIS b. 6 Nov 1946
*CHARLES STANLEY LEWIS b. 1 May 1949
*MICHAEL BENJAMIN LEWIS b. 26 Sep 1951
*MARILYN SUE LEWIS b. 11 Jan 1953
*CARLOLYN SUSAN LEWIS b. 11 Jan 1953

Benjamin married Maudie Marie England on 25 Jun 1936. Maudie was born on 30 Jul 1916 in Sabula, Iron County, Missouri, United States; died on 29 Jan 2002 in Farmington, Saint Francois County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3JG
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992:

NOTES
Lucy May Abrams was born Sept 4 1889. I married George Samuel Cole
May 29, 1907 we had 5 boys & 5 girls: Alma Leola (Feb 9, 1909); Albert Leo
(April 16, i911-died 28.); Elier Leorn (june 27, 1912); Delbert (Aug 20, 1915);
Thelma Leona (June 10, 1918); Ralph Clayton (Sept 9, 1920); Gussie May (Dec 16,
1922); Zelma Rose (March 11, 1924); Cyril Cescroe (April 4, 1927); and Shirley
Bernice (Oct 1, 1929)
(Inforiation written about herself by Lucy May Abrams. Copy of information was
sent to Linda Lewis in 1990 by Bob Abrams)
NOTES
Lucy May lived in Ohio and Missouri. Her church affiliation was
Methodist.
(Information shared by Richard Abrams in October 1992)

lOBITUARY
Services for Mrs. Lucy May Moore, a native of the Vulcan community, were
held Tuesday afternoon, November 20, at the Gish-Bowles & Coder Chapel in
Piedmont. Mrs. Moore, a 95-year-old Poplar Bluff resident, died at Doctors
Regional Medical Center in that community Saturday, November 17.
Mrs. Moore was born September 4, 1889, in Vulcan to Henry and Omay Lewis
Abrams. In 1907 she married George Samuel Cole, and the couple had 10 children.
Mr. Cole died in 1932.
In 1933 she married Walter Moore, who preceded her in death in 1939.
Surviving are two sons, Cyril Cole of Poplar Bluff and Delbert Cole of
El Monte, Calif. One stepson, Raymond Moore of St. Louis; five daughters,
Thelma Lashley of Poplar Bluff, Alma Reynolds of Houghton Lake, Mich., Gussie
Jarrell Marshall of Gibsonton, Fla., Zelma Stewart of Bay City, Mich., and
Shirley DePew of Claremont, Calif.; 27 grandchildren; 63 great-grandchildren;
and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
Preceding her in death were three sons, Albert, Elmer and Ralph Cole.
Mrs. Moore was a member of the Trilby United Methodist Church in Toledo,
Ohio. She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and
the Rebekah Lodge in Toledo.
The Rev. Charles Trout officiated at the services, and music included
recorded solos by Merrill Womach. Frances Blackwell was pianist, and family
members served as pallbearers.
Burial was in the Mountain View Ceietery.
(THE MOUNTAIN ECHO newspaper... Iron County, Missouri...newspaper clipping in
possession of Linda Lewis on 6/16/1990)

Buried:
Find a Grave Memorial # 61683796

Family/Spouse: Walter Moore. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Lucy married George Samuel Cole on 29 May 1907 in Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri, USA. George was born on 22 Sep 1886 in Mill Spring, Wayne County, Missouri, USA; died on 17 Nov 1984 in Poplar Bluff, Butler County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Iron County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3JL
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Died:
Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992:

OBITUARY
Carl Abrams, son of Henry Abrams and Naoma Lewis Abrams, was born at
Vulcan Nov. 7, 1891. He departed this life July 30, 1962 at the age of 70
years in the Old Soldiers Hospital, Washington, D.C.

About 1916 he was united in marriage to Kate Parsons of Fredericktown and
to this union four children were born, three sons and one daughter. One son
preceded hie in death. He leaves his wife, Kate, of Toledo, Ohio; two sons,
Richard Abrams of Piedmont; James Abrams of Ohio and one daughter, Ruth Adams
of St. Louis and several grandchildren; two sisters, Hrs. Lucy Moore, Toledo,
Ohio; Lillian Kniss, Liberty Center, Ohio; and one brother, George Abrams of
Festus; and other relatives.

Mr. Abrams was reared in the Vulcan and Annapolis community. He left
Vulcan about 1913. He joined the army in World War I and served there until he
was discharged about 1917. He returned again in 1932 to Vulcan, Piedmont and
Annapolis where he lived until 1953 when he entered the Old Soldiers Home and
Hospital in Washington, D.C. where he made his home until his death.
He was laid to rest in the Old Soldiers Cemetery, Washington, D.C. with
military honors. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him for he was a
friend to all.
Mr. Abrams was the uncle of Mrs. Gussie Gerald. —Contributed.
(WAYNE COUNTY JOURNAL-BANNER newspaper...Piedmont, Wayne County,
Missouri...Thursday, August 16, 1962)

NOTES
Lydia Margaret Parsons was the daughter of Elizabeth and William Parsons.
(Information was supplied by Lydia's son, Richard (Bob) Abrams, in June 1991)

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 15418454

Carl married Lydia Margaret Parsons on 25 Jan 1917 in Crystal City, Jefferson County, Missouri, USA. Lydia was born in 1894; died on 7 Nov 1969 in Findlay, Hancock County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Youngs Cemetery, Henry County, Ohio, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3J2
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992:

George Lee Abrams was married to Alice Henrietta Williams from January 22,
1917 until her death in June 1921. They had two children. He was married to
Nellie Mae Tesreau from March 21, 1925 until her death in 1965. Nellie and
George did not have any children.
(Information received from Bob Abrams in July 19BB.)

George Lee Abrams was born in January 1894. George married Alice Williams
they had 2 children 1 boy 1 girl
(Information written by George's sister, Lucy Mae Abrams Cole. A copy was sent
to Linda Lewis by Bob Abrams in 1990)

Died:
MO DC 68-0045551

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 112012040

George married Alice Henrietta Williams on 22 Jan 1917 in Festus, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. Alice was born on 9 Nov 1893 in Crystal City, Jefferson County, Missouri, USA; died on 23 Jun 1921 in , Jefferson County, Missouri, USA; was buried in Gamel Cemetery, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

George married Nellie Mae Tesreau on 21 Mar 1925 in Festus, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. Nellie was born on 1 Jul 1882 in Mine La Motte, Madison County, Missouri, United States; died on 19 Jul 1965 in Festus, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Christian Church Cemetery, Madison County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3JK
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Buried:
Abrams Farm

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LB7H-2ZL
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Name: Ulyses C Abrams
Gender: Male
Age: 26
Birth Date: abt 1902
Marriage Date: 11 Jul 1928
Marriage Place: Lucas, Ohio, USA
Father: H Abrams
Mother: Oma Lewis
Spouse: Carmen A Ricketts
Film Number: 002168583

Name: Ulysses C Abrams
Gender: Male
Age: 41
Event Type: Marriage Registration (Marriage)
Birth Date: 3 Sep 1897
Birth Place: Annapolis, Missouri
Marriage Licence Date: 3 Oct 1938
Marriage Licence Place: Indiana, United States
Residence Place: Toledo, Ohio
Father: Henry Abrams
Mother: Oma Lewis
Spouse: Arvilla F Hillman
Page: 99
FHL Film Number: 001887330

Died:
151246740

Ancestry.com and Ohio Department of Health. Ohio, Death Records, 1908-1932, 1938-2007 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2010.

Name: Ulysses C Abrams
Birth Date: 1898
Gender: Male
Race: White
Residence Place: Toledo, Lucas, Ohio, United States
Death Date: 29 Aug 1959
Hospital of Death: St Lukes Hospital
Death Place: Toledo, Lucas, Ohio, USA
Certificate: 64952
Age at Death: 61
Certifier: Physician
Autopsy: No Autopsy performed
Marital Status: Married
Census Tract: 0551

Ulysses married Carmen Aura Ricketts on 11 Jul 1928 in Toledo, Lucas County, Ohio, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Ulysses married Arvilla F. Hillman on 3 Oct 1938 in , Steuben County, Indiana, USA. Arvilla was born on 19 May 1899. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Ulysses married Minerva E. Younger on 3 June 1949 in Toledo, Lucas County, Ohio, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3JN
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Research note courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992:
Clarance was born in October about 1900 or 1901. I don't no which.
(Written by Lucy May Abrams, Clarence's sister. Bob Abrams sent a copy to
Linda Lewis in 1990)



Died:
y

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3JF
• Name: Lillie
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Notes:

Courtesy of email 30 Mar 2000 from Norma Kniss Schaub:

Lillian, was brought to Ohio sometime after her mother died. Anyone having
any information on this I would love to have. She lived in Pemberville,
Wood Co.OH with Lem and Ellie Uhrich. She worked at the Ohio Bell Telephone
Co. Toledo. Lucas OH
In 1920 she was introduced to my father Benjamin (Bud) Franklin KNISS, b. 30
May 1898 and d., 16 August 1964. Lillian and Bud were m. 12 Sept 1921 in
Bowling Green, Wood Co., OH
Lillian and Bud lived in Liberty Center, Henry Co., OH. Bud was in the shoe
cobbler business there. Bud was born and raised in Liberty Cennter.

Died:
Name: Lillian V Kniss
Birth Date: 1904
Gender: Female
Race: White
Residence Place: Henry, Ohio, United States
Death Date: 8 Jul 1964
Hospital of Death: Henry County Hospital
Death Place: Napoleon, Henry, Ohio, USA
Certificate: 52101
Age at Death: 60
Certifier: Physician
Autopsy: Yes, used for certification
Marital Status: Married

Buried:
Find a Grave Memorial # 63039374

Part 2 Row 41 NB 10-1

Lillian married Benjamin Franklin Kniss on 12 Sep 1921 in , Wood County, Ohio, USA. Benjamin was born on 30 May 1898 in Liberty Center, Franklin County, Ohio, USA; died in Toledo, Lucas County, Ohio, USA; was buried in Youngs Cemetery, Henry County, Ohio, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8WT-3JX
• Created: 25 Jul 2015

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L51W-HWP
• Created: 08 Jul 2016

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 98671198

Family/Spouse: Nevada O. Gordon. Nevada was born in 1908; died in 1978; was buried in Mount Hope Cemetery, Saint Louis County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L51W-8DJ
• Created: 08 Jul 2016

Family/Spouse: William Burl Pingilley. William (son of John Henry Pingilley and Lydia Keller) was born on 29 Jul 1901 in St. Louis, (City of St. Louis), Missouri, USA; died on 05 Jul 1989 in Eastpointe, Macomb County, Michigan, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LDYQ-7ZL
• Created: 08 Jul 2016

Lela married James Cecil Pingilley on 22 Oct 1927. James (son of John Henry Pingilley and Lydia Keller) was born on 27 Oct 1903 in Flat River, St. Francois County, Missouri, USA; died in Nov 1964 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L51W-C52
• Created: 08 Jul 2016

Notes:

Residence
1910 • Union, Iron, Missouri, USA

Residence
1920 • Des Arc, Iron, Missouri, USA

Family/Spouse: Emmett Felix Williams. Emmett was born on 29 Apr 1900 in Flat River, St. Francois County, Missouri, USA; died on 17 Jun 1980 in Ypsilanti, Washtenaw County, Michigan, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LTYM-XGC
• Created: 08 Jul 2016

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LKTX-N6K
• Created: 02 Feb 2023

Notes:

Died:
98 Hickory Drive

Family/Spouse: Lorraine Florence Tietz. Lorraine was born on 13 Jan 1925 in St. Charles, St. Charles County, Missouri, United States; died on 14 Dec 2005 in Warrenton, Warren County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Created: 19 Aug 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 91898239

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MBCM-1KJ
• Created: 31 Jul 2015

Notes:

Children:
CHARLOTTE L PATTERSON b. 13 Apr 1930
PATRICIA ANN PATTERSON b. 5 Feb
JAMES EUGENE PATTERSON b. 11 May 1938
R0BERT MICHAEL PATTERSON b. 1 May
GARY DAVID PATTERSON
MELTON EUGENE PATTERSON

Find A Grave Memorial# 91741530

Died:
Research courtesy Linda E. Lewis, from her book George Lewis Descendants, October 1992:

!OBITUARY
Hazel Ellen Patterson, daughter of Helton Eugene and Nancy Ellen Lewis Ruble, was born at Vulcan, No, on Septeiber 9, 1907 and died in Arcadia Valley Hospital, Pilot Knob, Ho. on June 24, 19B2 at the age of 74 years 9 months and 15 days.
On Sept. 11, 1929 she was united in marriage to James Alfred Patterson who preceded her in death.
Surviving are 3 sons, James E. and Gary D., both of Vulcan, Mo., Robert H., Des Arc, Mo., 2 daughters, Charlotte L. Middleton, Vulcan, Mo., Patricia Ann Stevenson, Piedmont, Mo., 1 sister, Helen McGeorge, Arnold, Mo., 16 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
1 son, Helton Eugene preceded her in death.
Mrs. Patterson professed her faith in Christ and united with the Assembly of God Church.
(Original article from Gish-Bowles & Coder Funeral Home, Inc. is in possession of Charlotte Patterson Middleton in March 1991)
!NOTES
Hazel Ruble Patterson is buried in the Sutton Cemetery near Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri.


Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 91741530

Hazel married James Alfred Patterson on 11 Sep 1929 in Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. James was born on 6 Nov 1905 in , Reynolds County, Missouri, USA; died on 27 Feb 1974 in Ironton, Madison County, Missouri, USA; was buried on 2 Mar 1974 in Sutton Cemetery, Vulcan, Iron County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: M8J4-9Y3
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 131853229


never married

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: M8J4-9B7
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 24954536

never married

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MNPK-DVB
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Family/Spouse: Gertrude Marie Bayless Emmons. Gertrude was born on 04 Feb 1908 in , Franklin County, Missouri, USA; died on 19 Jan 1965 in , St. Louis County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Valhalla Cemetery, Bel-Nor, St. Louis County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Lyman married Alma Clay in Jun 1928. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRCQ-QTC
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Find A Grave Memorial# 34062437

Died:
Lena Dolly England, 89, died Jan. 24, 2003 in Piedmont, Mo.
She was born May 31, 1913 near Annapolis, Mo., daughter of the William and Bertha (Lewis) Alcorn.
She married William E. England Dec. 2, 1935 and he preceded her in death.
Mrs. England was a homemaker, who lived most of her life in Iron County. She was a long time member of the Walker Branch United Baptist Church in Lesterville.
She is survived by two daughters, Glenna Esmond, Piedmont, Dolores Lucy, Ironton; one son, Melvin England, Piedmont; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one daughter, Shirley England; one son, Arnold England; one brother, Lyman Alcorn; three sisters, Julia Alcorn, Minnie Alcorn, Dolus Overall; one grandson, Farrell Bryan Esmond.
The funeral was held Jan. 27 at Morrison-Worley Funeral Chapel, Piedmont, with Rev. Clyde Hedgcoth officiating and music Scott Tucker.
Pallbearers were John Waller, Jr., Charles Crowley, Tim Esmond, Jim Hutchison, Dale Bryan and Charles Goodson. Burial was in Annapolis Cemetery.

Lena married William Emmitt England on 03 Dec 1935. William was born on 27 Jan 1913. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: M76D-TBC
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRCQ-W6K
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Family/Spouse: Clanie Burl Horton. Clanie was born on 18 Dec 1908. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRC7-PTR
• Created: 26 Feb 2020

Notes:

Obituary
Thomas Ruble, 90, of Vulcan, passed away Friday, January 31, 2020. He was born February 12, 1929, in Vulcan, MO, to Clell and Bess (Lewis) Ruble. Tom was a loving father, grandfather and friend. He married Veldeen “Vel” Williams on April 22, 1972. Tom was a member of the Pipefitters Union 562. He was proud to lay down the foundation for his grandson, Jeremy Eaton and son-in-law, Robert Eaton. Tom served in the United States Army. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed fishing in his lake from his deck and hosting fish fry’s. Tom was a long-time member of Free Spirit Baptist Church in Vulcan, MO. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of forty-two years, his brothers: Ralph Lewis, Jack Ruble, Berlin Ruble, and Junior Ruble; his sisters: Katherine Hammers and Carma Sisk Faborito. Tom is survived by his children: Terry Ruble of Pevely, Lea Eaton and husband Robert of Bonne Terre; his stepchildren: Rob Damouth and wife Donna of Salem, Rick Damouth

His photo at: https://www.rueggfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Thomas-Ruble

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MB24-XYG
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Died:
WWII

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 91709041

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LD5J-XDS
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Other Events and Attributes:

• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: G9FD-XJT
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Notes:

Robert (Bob) Dittmar and Doris Jean Lewis were married on Dec. 7, 1948 in St. Louis, Mo.
to them 6 children were born
Wm. Robert
Richard
Ruth
Darla
Stephen
Jeffery

Doris married Robert Bruce Dittmer on 7 Dec 1948 in St. Louis, (City of St. Louis), Missouri, USA. Robert was born on 15 Aug 1926; died on 22 Apr 2006; was buried in Woodridge Memorial Park, Lexington County, South Carolina, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MB2F-7ST
• Created: 12 Jul 2015

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: 245L-45N
• Created: 24 Jul 2015

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRC7-Y5W
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRC7-THG
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 62024783

Family/Spouse: W. Marvin Matthews. W. was born on 13 Dec 1911; died on 11 Dec 1998; was buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Iron County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MDSB-1M3
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

PFC US ARMY 24 INF WW II

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 5276993

Family/Spouse: Norma Jean Hulsey. Norma was born on 25 May 1930 in Bonne Terre, Saint Francois County, Missouri, United States; died on 15 Mar 2007 in Chesterfield, Saint Louis County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Redbud Memorial Gardens, Potosi, Washington County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MDSB-BFN
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

1940 Census:

Name: Devern Lewis
Age: 13
Estimated Birth Year: abt 1927
Gender: Male
Race: White
Birthplace: Missouri
Marital Status: Single
Relation to Head of House: Son
Home in 1940: Union, Iron, Missouri
Map of Home in 1940: Union, Iron, Missouri
Inferred Residence in 1935: Union, Iron, Missouri
Residence in 1935: Union
Sheet Number: 11B
Attended School or College: Yes
Highest Grade Completed: Elementary school, 5th grade
Neighbors: View others on page
Household Members Age Relationship
Edgar Lewis
38 Head
Marie Lewis
37 Wife
Marchall Lewis
15 Son
Devern Lewis 13 Son
Glenda Lewis
11 Daughter
Dessa Fein Lewis
9 Daughter
Bobby Ray Lewis
7 Son
Garlaine Lewis
3 Son

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 86186183

Family/Spouse: Mary Ellen Raper. Mary was born on 15 Mar 1930 in Morgantown, Morgan County, Indiana, United States; died on 13 Apr 2009 in Bowling Green, Warren County, Kentucky, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRC7-5WL
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRC7-RYS
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Mrs Dessie Lewis Bone of Desloge passed away yesterday May 15. A small service will be held at Boyers Funeral Home for immediate family members. You can attend by going to Boyers Facebook page online Tuesday, May 19 at 11:00 am and they will stream the service
Her two daughters are Sandra Bone DeSha and Beverly Bone Skaggs and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren


Died:

OBITUARY
Dessie Fern Bone, 89, of Bonne Terre, passed away Friday, May 15, 2020, at St. Joe Manor in Bonne Terre. She was born on March 28, 1931, in Vulcan, MO to the late Edgar Issac and Macy (Charlton) Lewis. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her five brothers Marshal, Deverne, Robert, Garland, and Lindell Lewis, four sisters Glenda Matthews, Thelma Boatright, Imogene Matthews, and Donna Higbee.
She is survived by her two daughters, Beverly (Wyman) Skaggs and Sandra DeSha; grandchildren; Catrina Bieser, Amy Kay Votaw and Toby (Cindy) Skaggs; great-grandchildren Molly Votaw, Hope (Charles) Krugh, and Carby (Katelynn) Kalal; and 4 great-great grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.
A Private viewing will be on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a private funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at the C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Desloge. Brother Lynn Nichols will be officiating the funeral service. Private Interment will be at St. Francois Memorial Park in Bonne Terre. Donations may be made to local food banks in Dessie’s name. Please view full obituary and share condolences online at
C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Homes | provides complete funeral services to the local community.

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MDSB-136
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 5276992

Family/Spouse: Delores Faye Eye. Delores was born on 12 Nov 1938 in Potosi, Washington County, Missouri, United States; died on 2 Jan 2023 in Freeburg, Saint Clair County, Illinois, United States; was buried in Redbud Memorial Gardens, Potosi, Washington County, Missouri, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: G9FF-GLW
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 86186352

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRC4-SCT
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LRC4-QF1
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: M7X9-KNF
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Burial: 7/16/2023, Mountain View Cemetery, Iron County, Missouri, United States
• Residence: Sullivan, Franklin County, Missouri, United States
• Created: 24 Jul 2015

Notes:

Died:
Jim Ruble, 87, of Sullivan, MO, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 6, 2023 at Meramec Nursing Center in Sullivan.

James Adrian Ruble, affectionately known as Jim, was born on September 8, 1935, in Vulcan, Missouri. He married Irene Dillingham on February 11, 1956 in Des Arc, MO. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, a dedicated community servant, and a man of strong faith.

Jim was a proud graduate of Annapolis High School. His dedication to service led him to join the United States Air Force in 1953, where he served as an Airman First Class until 1957. Stationed in San Antonio, Texas, and Reykjavik, Iceland, Jim served his country with distinction. Following his honorable discharge, he joined the Meramec Mining Company, where he worked from 1958 to 1970. His commitment to worker safety eventually led him to a career with the US Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration, where he worked as a Federal Mine Inspector from 1970 until his retirement in 1996.

Jim's commitment to his community was evident in his involvement with various organizations. He served as a member of the Sullivan Volunteer Fire Department for 21 years and helped form an Auxiliary Police Force, where he was the first Captain. He was also a member of the Jaycees, the Masonic Lodge, and the Sons of the American Revolution. He served on the Board of Directors for the Harney Mansion, the Sullivan Planning and Zoning Commission, and as the President of Sullivan Homes, Inc. for 28 years.

A man of deep faith, Jim was a member of the First Baptist Church since 1959. His faith guided him throughout his life and was a source of strength and inspiration for his family and those who knew him.

Jim had a passion for restoring cars, particularly his 1941 Chevy, which won several awards. He had a keen interest in Civil War history and family genealogy, Jim carried a deep appreciation and love for his birthplace, Vulcan, Missouri, and his family. He was dedicated to caring for his mother after his father's passing, earning him the affectionate nickname "my boy" from his mother.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Irene Ruble of Sullivan, Missouri; three children: Alan Ruble and wife Donna of Hannibal, Missouri, Beverly Gable and husband Bill of Ajijic, Mexico and Sandy Stoltzfus of Glenwood Springs, Colorado; nine grandchildren: Josh Thomas, Zack Thomas and wife Christy, Racheal Chicoine and husband Jathan, Rusty Ruble, Bryan Ruble and wife Jennifer, Ashley Mays and fiancé Austin Harris, Taylor Mays, Emma Stoltzfus, and Skyler Barnes and husband Ricky; eight great-grandchildren: Elliott, Liam, Azlon, Kael, Adalyn, Mirai, Oliver and William; a sister, Helen Crombie of Sullivan, MO; other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Avery and Myrtle Ruble.

A Remembrance Memorial service will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the First Baptist Church of Sullivan with Pastor Chester Lahmann officiating.

Visitation will be 9 – 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 15, 2023 at the First Baptist Church of Sullivan, prior to the memorial service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Des Arc Museum. C/O Peoples Community Bank, 200 E. 2nd Street, Annapolis, MO 63620.

Friends may send their online condolences to Jim’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.

James married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Created: 01 Nov 2018

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: G9FJ-18B
• Created: 01 Nov 2018

Notes:

Find a Grave Memorial # 48183771

Died:
Find a Grave Memorial # 48183771

Buried:
Plot 053A

Janice married James Alexander Davis, Jr. on 9 Apr 1942. James was born on 12 Sep 1939; died on 15 Nov 1988; was buried in Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery, City of Saint Louis, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Living. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Created: 18 Jul 2016

Other Events and Attributes:

• Created: 18 Jul 2016

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L68W-9JJ
• Created: 18 Jul 2016

Notes:

Died:
Find A Grave Memorial# 39875076


Gracie Alene Dowd
Daily Journal - Jul 25, 2009 - 08:06:19 CDT
LEADWOOD — Gracie Alene Dowd, 69, of Leadwood passed away July 24, 2009, at Country Meadows Nursing and Rehab in Park Hills. She was born November 13, 1939, at Lesterville. She was a member of Eastside Church of God.

She was preceded in death by: Parents, Benjamin and Maudie Marie (England) Lewis; husband, Donald Dowd; infant sisters, Annetta and Doretta Lewis; and son, Ron Dowd.

She is survived by: Sons, Don and Susie Dowd of South Carolina; Charles (Wes) Dowd of Frankclay, Eddie and Lisa Dowd of Frankclay, Rodney and Diana Dowd of Leadwood, and Tracy and Fawn Dowd of Leadwood; Daughter, Penny Dowd of Frankclay; brothers, James Lewis of Leadwood, Billy and Alberta Lewis of Leadwood; Boby and Cheryl Lewis of Clarkston, Ky., Stanley (Tiny) and Charlotte Lewis of Leadwood, Mike and Jeanette Lewis of Leadwood, Melvin and Marilyn Barnes of Farmington; sisters, Mary Ann and Ken Payne of Leadwood, and Carolyn and Allen Govero of Farmington; 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be 5 p.m., Sunday, July 26, 2009, at C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Leadwood. Services will be 11 a.m., Monday, July 27, 2009, at C.Z. Boyer & Chapel in Leadwood.. Interment at Leadwood Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the AmericanDiabetes Association.

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: GVG6-CZH
• Name: Sonny
• Created: 18 Jul 2016

Notes:

Died:
James Lewis, 80, of Leadwood, passed away Friday, December 30, 2022, at Parkland Hospital, in Farmington. He was born Friday, October 9, 1942, in Lesterville to the late Benjamin and Maude Marie (England) Lewis.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Charles Stanley “Tiny” Lewis, Billy Lewis, Boby Lewis, Annette Lewis, Dorette Lewis and Gracie Alene Dowd, brother-in-law, Don Dowd.
James is survived by his children, Melody Scism and husband Charlie, Celinda Tankersley and husband Robert, Clinton Lewis and wife Christine and Stacy Tongay; grandchildren, Logan, Marissa, Jacy, Mary Kate, Meliza and Josey; siblings, Mike Lewis and wife Jeanetta, Mary Ann Payne and the late Kenny, Marilyn Barnes and husband Sonny, Carolyn Goverau and husband Alan; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Lewis, Cheryl Lewis and Bert Lewis along with several nieces, nephews, friends and other family.
Visitation will be held at C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Wednesday, January 4, 2023 from 4:00 PM until the time of service at 7:00 PM with Pastor Brain Jenkerson officiating. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Leadwood Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Desloge.

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: GMK2-MWH
• Created: 18 Jul 2016

Notes:

Died:
Gloria Jean
January 16
With sadness, I post the obituary of another Lewis descendant:
Billy Lewis, 73, of Leadwood, passed away January 16, 2018, at Mercy Jefferson in Crystal City. He was born June 30, 1944, in Leadwood, to the late Ben and Marie (England) Lewis. Billy was a member of the Leadwood Fire Department for 56 years and a Board Member from the year 2000 until present.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Alene Dowd; brother, Boby Lewis, and twin siblings in infancy, Annette and Dorette Lewis.
Billy is survived by his wife, Mary (Ross) Lewis; children, Susan Scoggin and Kevin Lewis and wife Kimberly; three grandchildren, Gracie, Kendall and wife Staci, Nicole and husband Michael; six great-grandchildren, Damian, Dominick, Devon, Jayden, Hazel, and Kendall Jr.; siblings, James Sonny Lewis, Charles Stanley “Tiny” Lewis and wife Charlotte, Mike Lewis and wife Janetta, Maryann Payne and husband Kenneth, Marilyn Barnes and husband Sonny, Carolyn Govero and husband Allen; several nieces and nephews also survive.
Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Thursday, January 18, 2018 from 4:00 PM until service time at 7:00 PM. Reverend Greg McCord will be officiating. Inurnment will follow, at a later date, in Leadwood Cemetery.
View tribute and share your memories and condolences at czboyer.com.

Jefferson Memorial Hospital

Family/Spouse: Mary Ross. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: GMKK-TSR
• Created: 18 Jul 2016

Notes:

Died:
Boby Lewis, 70, of Leadwood, passed away December 1, 2016, at Phelps County Medical Center in Rolla. He was born November 6, 1946, in Leadwood, to the late Benjamin and Maude Marie (England) Lewis.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two children, Linda Diane Lewis and Lindell DeWayne Lewis; three sisters, Annette and Dorette Lewis, Gracie Alene Dowd; and one grandson, Zacharehia Murphy.

Boby is survived by his wife, Cheryl (King) Lewis; four children, Kimberly (Mrs. Jerry) Reeves of Farmington, Becky (Mrs. Billy) Murphy of Kentucky, Keith Lewis and wife Christa of Tennessee, and Adinna (Mrs. James) Farris also of Kentucky; fourteen grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren; four brothers, James “Sonny” Lewis, Billy (Bert) Lewis, Stanley (Charlotte) Lewis, Mike (Jeanetta) Lewis, all of Leadwood; three sisters, Mary Ann (Mrs. Kenny) Payne of Leadwood, Marilyn (Mrs. Sonny) Barnes and Carolyn (Mrs. Alan) Govero, both of Farmington.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Monday, December 5, 2016 from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The service will be held in the C.Z. Boyer and Son Chapel, Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at 11:00 AM with Rev. Ed Watson officiating. Interment will follow at Leadwood Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House.

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 173391944

Family/Spouse: Cheryl King. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: GVG6-5NK
• Created: 18 Jul 2016

Notes:

Died:
Charles Stanley “Tiny” Lewis, 73, of Leadwood, passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by his loving family. Tuesday, July 19, 2022. He was born May 1, 1949, in Bonne Terre, to the late Benjamin and Maude Marie (England) Lewis.

Tiny attended Leadwood Methodist Church, he retired from Dave Sinclair Ford as a mechanic and then continued working other jobs. He was a part of the Leadwood Fire Department for over 50 years, where he retired as Chief and continued working in leadership roles. He was instrumental in the building of the fire department where he served as President and then as a board member. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed hunting, his biggest joy in life was his family and friends.

Tiny was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Annette and Dorette Lewis, Gracie Alene Dowd; and two brothers, Billy Lewis and Boby Lewis.

Tiny is survived by his wife of 56 years, Charlotte (Barton) Lewis; two children, Michelle (Eddie) Grimes of Goose Creek, Charlie (Tara) Lewis of Leadwood; grandchildren, Amanda (James) Layne, Stephen (Latisha) Jennings, Jaimie Grimes, David Arnold, Alexander (Emily) Lewis, Devyn Lewis, Emma (Brendan) Lewis, Sara Beth Lewis; five great-grandchildren and fur baby, Rue; two brothers, James “Sonny” Lewis, Mike (Jeanetta) Lewis, all of Leadwood; three sisters, Mary Ann (Kenny) Payne of Leadwood, Marilyn (Sonny) Barnes and Carolyn (Alan) Govero, both of Farmington.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Thursday, July 21, 2022 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Visitation will resume in the C.Z. Boyer and Son Chapel from 9:00 AM until service time of 11:00 AM with Dave Pratt and Dennis Conway officiating. Interment will follow at Leadwood Cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Kindred Hospice for their care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Leadwood Fire Protection District 1101 Mill St. Leadwood, MO 63653.

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 241807942

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: M8JC-VKJ
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Family/Spouse: Nelson Reynolds, Sr.. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: M76F-28X
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MNP5-CYH
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L8XT-K2R
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Delbert married Mary Melany on 2 Nov 1935 in Au Gres, Arenat County, Michigan, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L69F-TXB
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 195286052

Family/Spouse: Walter Harvey Lashley. Walter was born on 18 Aug 1916 in Des Arc, Iron County, Missouri, USA; died on 2 Sep 1992 in Chandler, Henderson County, Texas, USA; was buried on 4 Sep 1992 in Tyler Memorial Park and Cemetery, Smith County, Texas, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MNP5-Z3C
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Ralph married Catherine Lehner on 13 Dec 1947 in Unionville, Tuscola County, Michigan, USA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: MCR5-S9J
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Family/Spouse: Richard Marshall. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Gussie married Rulof Jarrell in 1939. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LYD8-TBB
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Research note courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992:

NOTE
Zelma married Leonard Stewart they had 5 children 4 boys 1 girl
(Zelma's mother, Lucy May Abrams Cole, wrote this. A copy was sent to Linda
Lewis by Bob Abrats)

Zelma married Arthur Stewart LeonardBay City, Bay County, Michigan, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LYDD-3T5
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992.

INOTES
Cyril married Emma boyer Divorced then he married Nona gregor. they had
2 boys She died in a motor cycle Reck then he married johanne greenfield
they have 2 boys
(Written by Cyril's tother, Lucy Nay Abrats Cole. Copy sent to Linda Lewis in
1990 by Bob Abrats)

Family/Spouse: Emma Boyer. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Mona Gregor, (3). [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Family/Spouse: Johanne Greenfield. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LYDD-3ZJ
• Created: 05 Nov 2018

Notes:

Research notes courtesy of Linda E. Lewis, “George Lewis Descendants”, published October 1992:

Shirley narried norman De pew they have children boy & girl that is
all
(Written by Lucy May Abrams Cole, Shirley's mother. In 1990 a copy was sent to
Linda Lewis by Bob Abrats)

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: G5QT-694
• Created: 02 May 2021

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 132352417

section C1, lot 8, row ?, grave 3936, northwest side 98 feet 3 inches in center of block

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: G9TQ-ZS8
• Created: 02 May 2021

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 28895410

Family/Spouse: Orville Raymond Adams. Orville was born on 12 Sep 1915; died on 16 May 1988; was buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Iron County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: GPB4-Y2B
• Created: 02 May 2021

Notes:

Died:
Find A Grave Bio:

Charles was the son of Carl and Margaret Parson Abrams of Missouri. He died from gastro-enteritis.

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 132624347

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L1TJ-4HT
• Created: 02 May 2021

Notes:

Private, US Army, WWII

Died:
Find A Grave Bio:

James R. Abrams, 82, of 24 Walker St., Tiffin, died at 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30, 2006, at his residence.

He was born Nov. 5, 1923, to Carl and Lydia Abrams in Rossford. On April 24, 1943, he married Nytha Cutlip in Mississippi, and she survives.

Other survivors include one son, William Abrams; one daughter, Alisa (Phil) Adams, both of Tiffin; caregiver and family friend, Carol Chaffee; one brother, Richard Abrams, Washington, Mo.; and one sister, Shirley Goldman, Bowling Green.

Mr. Abrams is preceded in death by his parents; his foster parents, Fredrick and Nellie Grill; and two sisters, Ruth Adams and Helen Grill.

He was an accountant and controller for Pettibone. He also was a member of First Presbyterian Church, the VFW and Cooties.

Besides being a graduate of Columbian High School's class of 1941, Mr. Abrams also graduated from Tiffin University Business School. He was an Army veteran of World War II.

Visitation will be 10-11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, 2006, at Engle-Shook Funeral Home, 135 N. Washington St. The funeral will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, 2006. Burial will be at Greenlawn Cemetery, with a military graveside service conducted by the Seneca County Veterans Council.

Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 16407698

Family/Spouse: Nytha M. Cutlip. Nytha was born on 1 Oct 1924 in Tiffen, Seneca County, Ohio, United States; died on 10 Sep 2009 in Tiffen, Seneca County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, Seneca County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: L1TJ-ZM5
• Name: Rich
• Created: 02 May 2021

Notes:

Died:
Richard Abrams, 84, Washington, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2010, at his home.

Mr. Abrams was born June 7, 1926, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Carl Abrams and wife Lydia, nee Parsons.

He received his education in Ohio. He was a member of Hope Lodge 251 and Pacific I.O.O.F. 86, Washington.

Mr. Abrams was employed with Motor Appliance Corporation, Washington.

He served his country honorably as a merchant seaman then transferred to the U.S. Army before being honorably discharged in 1956.

On Dec. 6, 1952, he was united in marriage to Mary Izetta Curran in St. Charles. This union was blessed with one child.

Preceding Mr. Abrams in death were his parents, Carl and Lydia Abrams; his wife, Mary Izetta Abrams on March 3, 1985; one brother, James Abrams; one sister, Ruth Adams; and two great-grandsons.

He is survived by his daughter, Joyce Mills and husband Jerry; four stepdaughters, Phyllis Mann and husband Jim, Eureka, Izetta Skepeneit, Eloise Young and husband Gaylord and Wilma Adams and husband John, all of Washington; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; other relatives and many friends.

Interment was in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Washington.

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 73662829

Richard married Mary Izetta Curran on 6 Dec 1952 in Saint Charles, Saint Charles County, Missouri, United States. Mary was born on 4 May 1921 in St. Louis, (City of St. Louis), Missouri, USA; died on 3 Mar 1985 in Washington, Franklin County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Franklin County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• familyserch.org ID: LVCB-V6N
• Created: 04 May 2021

Family/Spouse: Burlyn Marvin Covington. Burlyn was born on 30 Apr 1916 in Sainte Genevieve, Sainte Genevieve County, Missouri, United States; died on 9 Apr 1994 in Festus, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

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• familyserch.org ID: LVCB-DK8
• Created: 04 May 2021

Notes:

Buried:
findagrave.com memorial # 44568596

Jerry married Virginia Rose Reheisse on 21 Oct 1943 in Festus, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. Virginia was born on 31 Oct 1923 in Festus, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States; died on 15 Apr 2004 in Festus, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States; was buried in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

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• familyserch.org ID: LF33-MV8
• Created: 12 Nov 2018

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• familyserch.org ID: LT94-5X5
• Created: 12 Nov 2018

Notes:

Died:
Betty L. Collins, age 87 of Toledo passed away peacefully on February 23, 2017.

Betty was born in Liberty Center, OH to Benjamin and Lillian (Abrams) Kniss on July 20, 1929.

Betty married the love of her life, Vincent Collins, on July 30, 1960 at Rosary Cathedral. Together, Betty and Vincent raised two children.

Betty was raised in Liberty Center, OH and was the eldest of 4 siblings.

Betty retired from Toledo Hospital after 40 years of service as a Human Resources Administrative Secretary. Throughout her adult life, Betty was devout Catholic and regularly volunteered with Gesu Catholic Church and charitable organizations including Little Sisters of the Poor, Heartbeat, Gesu Boosters, and Fortnightly Book Club, to name a few.

Betty is remembered as a caring Mother, Grandmother, Sister, and Friend. Betty loved to spend time with her family. She had a brilliant mind and she remained sharp as a tack throughout life. One of her best qualities was her ability to listen. Betty enjoyed spending time with her friends, talking, listening, and laughing. She often enjoyed solving difficult problems, and her ability for deep thought and prayer enabled her to engage in passionate and thoughtful discussions. She was always an independent woman even in her old age. Betty would always make time for people, and she would never turn away a guest; her door was always open. Betty always saw the best in people, and she would do anything within her ability to help others. Betty gave people hope, and she is remembered as spiritually rich.

Betty was one of the most technologically savvy 87 year olds. She would skype regularly with family who were overseas or out-of-state. She was known as the “Skyping Grandma.” Betty enjoyed working with computers and she used those talents to help church members. Betty had a keen ability to learn new skills.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband Vincent, her parents, her brothers William and Kenneth.

She is survived by her son Kevin (Susan) Collins, daughter Kathleen (Doug) Jones, her three grandchildren Ashley Collins, Nicki (Arron) Lehmann, and Ryan Collins; two great grandchildren Nicholas and Colin, and her sister Norma and many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Gesu Catholic Church, 2049 Parkside Blvd, Toledo, OH 43607, on Saturday February 25th at 1 p.m. where the family will begin receiving guests at 12 p.m. Interment Calvary Cemetery.

Coyle Funeral and Cremation Services

Find A Grave Memorial #176735589

Betty married Vincent Collins on 30 Jul 1960. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

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• familyserch.org ID: 27SH-9FN
• Created: 12 Nov 2018

William married Georgette VanDenBerghe on 11 Oct 1952. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Living married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]