And honestly, once you start reading them, it’s easy to lose a whole afternoon.
Final Thoughts
County histories do more than list names.
They place your ancestors into the world they actually lived in.
They add context, stories, and connections that basic records alone sometimes cannot provide.
And sometimes, tucked inside one forgotten paragraph, is the exact clue you’ve been searching for.
Need more help? Visit Loganalogy.com Research Specialist page! I offer guidance to streamline your research, provide expert tips, and help you build a family tree that future generations will cherish.
The company he founded is called Sonoco today, a global provider of packaging products and services. (Not to be confused with Sunoco) He also founded Coker University (which was Welsh Neck High School, then the Coker College for Women, now Coker University).
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Wouldn’t he be proud to know that his 5th cousin, 2x removed, Jeanne Wescott (my grandfather’s sister), attended Coker College in 1943? (Jeanne’s grandmother and James were 5th cousins.)
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Just a year after he married his wife, the Civil War began and James fought in the Ninth South Carolina Infantry. He rose to the rank of major before getting hurt at Lookout Mountain, Georgia, shattering his leg in 1863. In that battle, he was captured by Union troops. He was released after 10 months.
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From the fields of Hartsville, SC to the battlefields of Chickamauga, his journey transformed agriculture and education, leaving a legacy that shaped industries and communities alike.
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Watch the video to witness the extraordinary life of James who wore many hats—farmer, soldier, and industrialist—who, despite the scars of war, cultivated a legacy of innovation and education that endures to this day.
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In 2002, he was inducted into South Carolina’s Hall of Fame. CHStoday
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“He was able to hire so many people in desperate straits after the war that he just uplifted the progress of everybody, black and white, urban or rural. He also was a leader in racial and social progress,”
Founded in 1899, Sonoco Products Company is a United States-based international provider of diversified consumer packaging, industrial products, protective packaging, and packaging supply chain services and the world’s largest producer of composite cans, tubes, and cores. Wikipedia Stock price: SON (NYSE) $60.71 +0.07 (+0.12%) Dec 30, 4:00 PM EST – Disclaimer Headquarters: Hartsville, SC Subsidiaries: Sonoco ThermoSafe, MORE CEO: R. Howard Coker (Feb 2020–) Number of employees: 21,000 (2017) Revenue: 5.237 billion USD (Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2020) Founder: James Lide Coker Founded: May 10, 1899
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I received a copy of a letter from the Gunn Memorial Library and Museum, written in 2008 by Marlene Flanders, a former aide to Mrs. Verna Logan, who passed away in 1987. In the letter, she mentioned a story she had heard about the Rising Sun Inn, also known as The Logan Homestead, which allegedly harbored an “interracial couple”: a Cherokee Indian man and a white woman. I was intrigued by this account, as I had not come across it before. This blog post tells the story.
Letter written in 2008 by Marlene Flanders, former aid to Mrs. Verna Logan., who died in 1987.
The Beginning: Two Lives, Worlds Apart
In 1803, a boy named Killekeenah Oowaite was born into the Cherokee tribe in New Echota, Cherokee Nation (now Georgia, USA). His upbringing was steeped in the traditions of his family, including his father Dutse Oowaite, and his mother, the daughter of High Cherokee Chief Attaculcullah. Their family name was eventually shortened to Watie. Two years later, in Cornwall, Connecticut, Harriet Ruggles Gold was born into the prominent Gold family, whose legacy was rooted in strong Christian values and community leadership.
Education and Encounter
At 18, Killekeenah met Elias Boudinot, a Revolutionary War figure, a friend and counselor to George Washington, and former President of the Continental Congress, who saw potential in the young Cherokee man. Boudinot sponsored Killekeenah’s education, sending him to the Foreign Mission School in Cornwall, where he adopted the name Elias Boudinot. It was here that he met Harriet Gold, whose family often hosted students from the school.
Their friendship deepened into love, but the cultural and racial norms of the time set them on a path fraught with opposition and challenges.
The Challenges of Love
In 1822, Elias returned to the Cherokee Nation due to illness but remained in contact with Harriet and her brother Franklin through letters. By 1824, their correspondence revealed a deepening relationship. When Harriet shared her intentions with her parents, they vehemently opposed the union. The Gold family, known for its standing in Connecticut, was divided. Harriet’s brothers-in-law, both ministers, argued it was her Christian duty to prioritize the mission school’s reputation over her personal happiness.
Harriet, however, stood firm in her convictions. Despite public outcry and even the burning of an effigy depicting Harriet, Elias, and an ally, Mrs. Northrop, Harriet’s resolve did not waver. (Elias’ cousin, John Ridge also attended the Mission School, where he met Sarah Northrop, the daughter of the school’s steward. The two became romantically involved and wed in January 1824.)
The Honeymoon at the Logan Homestead
After enduring months of familial and societal pressure, Harriet’s immediate family softened their stance. In May 1826, Harriet and Elias married at the Gold Homestead and spent their wedding night at the Logan Homestead, which was fortified and protected by Captain Logan and his armed men. This act of defiance by Captain Logan ensured the couple’s safety during a time of heightened tension.
The couple left Connecticut the next day, embarking on a 47-day journey to the Cherokee Nation in Georgia.
A New Life and Tragic Loss
Settling in New Echota, Elias became the editor of the Cherokee Phoenix, the first tribal newspaper in the United States. It was printed in English and Cherokee, using the Cherokee syllabary created by Sequoyah. In her family letters, Harriet described a good life, and that she had been warmly welcomed upon her arrival. Harriet gave birth to six children, but tragedy struck during her seventh pregnancy. In May 1836, Harriet’s child was stillborn, and she passed away three months later at the age of 31. She was buried in New Echota, and Elias erected a tombstone made from marble brought from Connecticut—a testament to her enduring connection to her roots.
Elias Boudinot, formerly known as Killekeenah Oowaite
The Aftermath
The Cherokee Nation’s land was increasingly encroached upon by settlers, culminating in the infamous Trail of Tears. Elias’ eventual support of the Treaty of New Echota, which advocated for Cherokee relocation, marked him and others as traitors in the eyes of many. In 1839, Elias was assassinated for his controversial stance.
Harriet and Elias’ children were sent back to Connecticut, where they were raised by Harriet’s sister Mary Brinsmade. The boys, William, Frank, and Elias, attended The Gunn School in Washington, Connecticut, while the girls were cared for by their aunt.
Legacy of the Logan Homestead
The Logan Homestead, a witness to this extraordinary love story, remains a symbol of courage and resilience. Harriet and Elias’ union defied societal norms, blending two distinct cultures in an era resistant to change. Captain Logan’s decision to protect the couple during their wedding night speaks to the power of individual acts of bravery in shaping history.
Harriet’s grave stands as a poignant reminder of a woman who followed her heart, defied convention, and left an indelible mark on both her family and history.
Threatened by Georgia soldiers for championing Cherokee nationalism yet executed by his own people for treason, Elias Boudinot left a complex legacy.
1800 Photograph of the grave of Harriet Ruggles Gold Boudinot, New Echota, Gordon County, Georgia
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to Stephen Bartkus, previous Curator of the Gunn Historical Museum, and Sarah Griswold, previous Curatorial Assistant, for their invaluable contributions to the previous research by Mark Oliver*.
Gunn Memorial Library and Museum Archives. (Special thanks to Amy Campanaro and Corinne Tabolt.)
Correspondence of Harriet Gold and Elias Boudinot. To Marry an Indian: The Marriage of Harriett Gold and Elias Boudinot in Letters, 1823-1839. United States, University of North Carolina Press, 2006.
Historical records from the Foreign Mission School, Cornwall, CT.
“[Photograph of the grave of Harriet Ruggles Gold Boudinot, New Echota, Gordon County, Georgia].” 1800/1994. January 25, 2025. https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/vang/do:gor379.
Have you ever heard someone dismiss family history research as a hobby for “old people”? While it’s true that some may associate genealogy with dusty archives and microfilm reels, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, there’s a growing fascination with ancestry across all ages.
Shows like “Finding Your Roots” and “Genealogy Roadshow” have sparked a national interest in uncovering our heritage. DNA testing has also become increasingly popular, offering a new avenue for piecing together our family stories.
But DNA is just one tool in the genealogist’s toolbox. Traditional methods, like collecting vital records such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and obituaries, remain the cornerstone of genealogical research. These records can provide a wealth of information about our ancestors’ lives, from their places of birth and occupations to their migration patterns and relationships.
Sometimes, traditional research methods reach a dead end, especially when faced with immigration records, name changes, or missing documentation. That’s where genealogical societies come in. These local organizations are treasure troves of historical resources, often staffed by passionate volunteers eager to help you climb over your brick walls. And their fees are often surprisingly affordable!
If you’re curious about your ancestry but lack the time or resources to delve into research yourself, there are family history research specialists like myself available to help. Whether you need a comprehensive family tree compiled or simply guidance on where to begin your research journey, I can tailor a package to fit your needs.
So, if you’ve ever wondered about your roots, don’t be discouraged by the perception that genealogy is a niche hobby for the elderly. The past is waiting to be explored, and there are many resources available to help you on your journey. Visit my website at www.loganalogy.com today to learn more and begin your own adventure into family history!
Thanks for reading, Marlee L. Logan
Private message me at m.me/Loganalogy
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Johann Henrich Heilig, my 6th great-grandfather, was born in 1700 and married Susanna De Wees Rittenhausen in 1729. Susanna’s family was prominent in early American industry, particularly in the Rittenhouse paper mills, which I’ve written about previously. If you’re a descendant or admirer of the Rittenhouse legacy, I recommend exploring the Rittenhouse Family Descendants and Friends Facebook page and learning about their efforts to preserve this rich history. The Rittenhouse Town Board of Directors actively maintains the historic Homestead House (built in 1707), the surrounding village, and a barn constructed during the WPA era.
Henrich’s origins remain debated among historians. Earlier accounts suggest he was born in Hannover, Germany, while newer research points to Baden-Wuerttemberg. What we do know is that Johann arrived in Philadelphia in 1720 aboard the Polly. Since passenger lists weren’t required until 1727, his exact journey is pieced together through indirect evidence.
By April 11, 1747, Johann was officially naturalized as a resident of Pennsylvania, meeting the colonial requirement of seven years’ residency. By this time, he was known as Henry—a clockmaker by trade. Clockmaking was a respected profession during the 18th century, vital for navigation, surveying, and precise timekeeping.
Henry and Susanna initially settled in Cheltenham but later purchased land on the borders of Pennsburg and Upper Hanover Townships in Montgomery County in 1749 and 1750. This property, acquired from surveyor William Parsons (an associate of the Penn family), remained in the family for generations. Passing from Henrich to his son George, and later to George Jr., the land was eventually sold to the Hoch family in the 1860s. Remarkably, the Hoch family still owns the house today—a living testament to centuries of stewardship.
Before 1684, the Lenape Indians roamed the hills and fished the streams of the land on either side of the Perkiomen Creek. In 1684, the Indians lost this land when William Penn purchased it for reportedly “two watch coats, four pairs of stockings and four bottles of cider.” In time, Pennsylvania Germans settled in the area. Around 1840, the area now known as Pennsburg began to appear like a village. The hub comprised a general store, a carpenter and blacksmith shop, and several houses. Most of the land was owned by the Heilig Brothers. They owned and resided in the oldest house in Pennsburg, located at Seminary and Fourth Streets. The Heilig Brothers took it upon themselves to refer to this village as “Heiligsville.” Residents had their ideas, and out of loyalty to the then Pennsylvania Senator, James Buchanan, wanted to name the area Buchanansville.
As the village grew, a meeting was held in 1843 at the Hilleg family store to decide on a permanent name and layout of boundary lines. After a week-long, bitterly contested battle, it was finally decided to name the village “Pennsburg” after William Penn.
i. Heinrich Heilig, b. 1722, ii. Jurg George Heilig, b. 1720; d. 1796, Upper Hanover Township., iii. Johannes Heilig (Source: Willbook I – 1796, 149-150.). iv. Anna Maria Heilig (Source: Willbook I – 1796, 149-150.), m. Michael Slonaker., v. Susanna Heilig (Source: Willbook I – 1796, 149-150.), b. 1726; m. Henry Deany.
Johannes or John changed the surname to Highley. The other children kept the German spelling of Heilig.
This notation appears on a locally sold postcard by Len Hillegass of the Heilig House: “The Heilig House at 313 W. 4th Street is considered the oldest house in Pennsburg. Wounded and ill Colonial Soldiers were cared for there by the very compassionate Heilig family during the Colonies’ fight for independence from British rule during the American Revolution.” Album by Reid Heilig You can see other pictures of the house at https://imageevent.com/heilig/heiligheritage/heilighousepennsburgpa?n=1&z=2&c=4&x=0&m=24&w=0&p=0.
Henry was a clockmaker. He passed down the art of his clockmaking skills to his children and nephews. One of the most famous was David Rittenhouse, an avid astronomer; he built complicated astronomical clocks and orreries, or planetary models, that kept time and predicted celestial events.
David Rittenhouse tall case clock. 1984.0416.007.
Henry is listed in the U.S., Craftperson Files, 1600-1995.
With hand made brass works in the German style, it consists of 19 bells, a wooden cylinder with pins that activate 19 hammers to play tunes, a bone wave to switch tunes. Iron frame is dovetailed together. You can read more about each piece on Reid Helig’s site at https://imageevent.com/heilig/hheiligclock/themusicmechanism
Henry was buried along with his wife in the mostly Rittenhouse family cemetery, Methacton Mennonite Cemetery. Click here for a partial list of burials with links to tombstone photographs. Henrich’s and Susannah’s are below. This cemetery is located in Worcester Township, Montgomery County, PA.
Henrich Heilig .. Died May 14, 1775 .. Aged 74 year 11 Mo 12 daysSusannah Rittenhouse .. Departed This Life December 13, 1769 .. Aged 71 YearsThe interesting thing about Susannah’s tombstone is that it shows her maiden name as “Rittenhouse.” However, this would be the correct person calculating the birth year by her age at death.
A wonderfully thorough history is written by Linton E. Love, a descendant of the Rittenhouse family. In it are the descendants of Henry and Susannah. Linton has created a database extending from the 17th century up to the 21st century from Claus to his 12,810 descendants as of March 2005!
Johann Henrich Heilig’s story is one of perseverance, skill, and enduring family ties. From his arrival in Philadelphia to the land that remains in familial care, his legacy is woven into the fabric of American history. Whether as a skilled clockmaker or as part of the Rittenhouse connection, his contributions remind us of the resilience and dedication of early immigrants. By reflecting on his life, we not only honor his journey but gain inspiration for preserving our own family stories for generations to come. Do you have a Heilig clock? You might!
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The Galbraith name, with its various spellings (Calbreath, Colbath, Colbreath, Galberth, Galbreath, Galbreth, Gilbraith, Gilbreath, Gilbreth, Gilreath, Kilbreath, Kilbreth, Kulbeth), carries a rich history. My journey to uncover the origins of my Galbraith ancestors has been a fascinating exploration of genealogy, leading me back to the rugged Scottish Highlands and the early days of colonial America.
According to historical accounts, the Galbraiths have deep roots in Scotland, tracing back to the “Parish of Baldunoch” in Stirling.1 One source describes them as “Britons, or the children of Briton,” a testament to their ancient lineage.2
Culcreuch Castle
In Fintry, Stirlingshire, Scotland was recently a hotel, now a private residence, but once was the ancestral home of Clan Galbraith; built in 1296. This castle replaced the clan stronghold of Inchgalbraith in Loch Lomond. Other Galbraith castles included Gartconnel, Balgair, Balvie, Bannachra, Bardowie, Barskimming, Craigmaddie, Garscadden, Mains, as well as Kincaid House. All were located between Stirling and Glasgow. ~From the Clan Galbraith Society
My own Galbraith line begins with Martha, my 3rd great-grandmother, born around 1800. She married John Stitt in 1817, and their family continued the Galbraith legacy.3
Research reveals a proud military tradition within the family. Martha’s father, John Galbraith, was likely born in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.4 His father, James, served as a Captain in the Pennsylvania troops during the American Revolution.5 James, in turn, was the son of John Galbraith, born around 1717.
Revolutionary War Battalions & Militia Index Cards. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
The story takes a dramatic turn with Andrew Galbraith, born around 1692 in Ireland. He emigrated to America with his father and became a prominent figure in early Pennsylvania, serving as a justice of the peace and a member of the Provincial Assembly. His wife, Mary Kyle, famously led a procession of mounted men to ensure Andrew’s election to the Assembly, demonstrating the strength and influence of early settlers.
Appletons’ Cyclopedia of American Biography; Volume: Vol. II
Further back, we find James Galbraith, born around 1666, one of the founders of the Old Derry Church. While his origins remain somewhat unclear, it’s believed he emigrated from Ireland in 1718.6
Ca. 1880s lithograph: Old Derry Church – – Built A. D. 1720 – – Repaired A. D. 1760 (Palmyra, PA, Dauphin County)
Connecting these early generations to the Scottish homeland has been a challenge. While DNA analysis suggests a link to other Galbraith families, definitive proof remains elusive.
We do not know if James of 1666 was born in Ireland but he came from there in 1718. We don’t know that his father was John and we have failed to link James back to the first Galbraith family of Ireland, who arrived there about 1613. Our last Chief from Culcreuch fled to Ireland in about 1625 and left living sons in Scotland who might have lines to the present. We are pretty sure that Group 1 links back to the 1400s at Culcreuch–but we do not know if the Chiefs maintained the DNA into the future (or past to Bretnach of 1150).
From William Gilbreath of the Clan Galbraith Facebook group
We know the two groups have the same YDNA Haplogroup and most of the same markers, which leads us to believe they were related at some point, but they are several generations apart. We haven’t found any source documents to tie them together.
From Dana Love of the Clan Galbraith Facebook group
DNA has become an important tool in genealogical research, and as more people take the test, the number of matches increases, making it even more helpful. Hopefully, this will be true for these family lines.
This genealogical journey has been a reminder of the resilience and determination of my ancestors. Their stories – of military service, political leadership, and community building – continue to inspire me today.
Egle, W. H. (1886). Pennsylvania Genealogies: Chiefly Scotch-Irish and German. ↩︎
Burke, J. (Ed.). (1846). A Genealogical and Heraldic Dictionary of the Landed Gentry of Great Britain and Ireland, Volume 1. ↩︎
When I watched an episode of Who Do You Think You Are? featuring actress Allison Janney, I was captivated by her journey tracing her ancestor Stephen Hopkins. Hopkins survived a shipwreck on the Sea Venture in 1609 and found himself stranded in Bermuda. The ship’s name, Sea Venture, nagged at me as I watched. It sounded so familiar, as though I had encountered it before. Sure enough, a dive into my family history revealed an incredible connection. Here is the story of my ancestry and the Sea Venture!
“Historic Voyage, Sea Venture and Consorts at Sea 1609,” a 1984 oil painting by Deryck Foster
The Fateful Voyage of the Sea Venture
The Sea Venture, also known as the Third Supply, was the flagship of a fleet carrying six hundred passengers—including men, women, and livestock—to the struggling colony at Jamestowne. On July 23, 1609, a hurricane separated the Sea Venture from the rest of the fleet. After four harrowing days, the ship began to take on water. Miraculously, it wrecked between two reefs on the island of Bermuda, allowing all 140 passengers to disembark safely.
Among the passengers was Stephen Hopkins, Allison Janney’s ancestor. The Hopkins family’s survival story was remarkable, but my personal connection to the Sea Venture lay elsewhere.
My Ancestors and Jamestowne
Tracing my lineage through my great-grandmother Wescott’s line brought me back to Jamestowne. For historical context:
“In June 1606, King James I granted a charter to the Virginia Company to establish an English settlement in North America. By May 14, 1607, settlers landed on Jamestown Island to establish a colony 60 miles from the Chesapeake Bay.” (Source)
This leads us to Alice, my 11th great-grandmother, whose last name remains unknown. Alice’s first husband was Thomas Pierce, both born in England around 1585. Together, they had a daughter named Elizabeth. To understand Alice’s story, it is crucial to delve into Thomas Pierce’s history.
Thomas Pierce: A Life of Service and Tragedy
Thomas Pierce arrived in Virginia aboard the Margaret, which set sail in September 1619. He held a distinguished position as the Sergeant at Arms for the first legislative assembly in Virginia, which convened on July 30, 1619.
Pierce established a plantation south of Martin’s Hundred along the James River. On March 22, 1622, tragedy struck during the Indian Massacre of 1622. This violent conflict arose from tensions between colonists and the Powhatan people, exacerbated by the colony’s relentless expansion for tobacco cultivation.
Thomas, his wife, child, two other men, and a French boy were reported killed at the plantation. Thomas appears to have been a relative of Lt. William Pierce of the Sea Venture (1609), who served under George Yeardley, Captain of the Governor’s Company of soldiers. Williams’ daughter, Jane Pierce, was the third wife of John Rolfe (who was also on the Sea Venture), the guy who married Pocahontas.
Survival Against the Odds
Despite the devastation, Alice and her daughter Elizabeth somehow survived. It is believed they were among 20 captives taken by the Powhatan and later ransomed after about ten months in captivity. Identified survivors included Mrs. Boyce and Jane Dickenson, both widows of men killed at Martin’s Hundred.
The Bennett Connection
Alice later remarried Richard Bennett Sr. of Isle of Wight, VA, my 10th great-grandfather. It’s important to note that this Richard Bennett is often confused with another man of the same name, a governor of Virginia from 1652-55. The two Richards, while contemporaries, are from different lineages.
The internet is rife with misinformation about the Bennetts, often conflating the two families. However, careful research through sources like Virginia Immigrants and Adventurers: A Biographical Dictionary, 1607-1635 by Martha W. McCartney has helped clarify the facts.
The following is transcribed from Colonial Records of Virginia, R.F. Walker.
At Mr. Thomas Pierce’s House over against Mulberry Island. Master Tho: Pierce, his Wife, his Childe, John Hopkins, (could he be related to Ms. Janney’s Stephen?) John Samon, A French Boy.
Named by the first colonists for its dense population of wild mulberry trees, Mulberry Islandshows up in some of the earliest maps of Virginia, as well as the writings of Capt. John Smith.
Courtesy National Park Service, Colonial National Historical Park
The following is a paragraph wildly spread on the internet but has been proven false by many history sites such as Chauco (Chanco) Virginia Indian.
Southside Virginia Families, Vol. I by John Bennett Boddie
In fact, it is more realistic to believe what is written on Historynet’s website:
These female colonists, perhaps 20 in all, were virtually the only captives taken by the Powhatans in the uprising. Few details of their ordeal have survived, and information about their lives is almost nonexistent. In fact, we may never know if they shared the fascinating, if often horrifying, adventures of more well-known Indian captives in American history. It is certain, however, that these women witnessed the violent deaths of neighbors and loved ones before being abducted; that they lived with their enemies while the English ruthlessly attacked Indian villages in retaliation; and that they received no heroes’ welcome upon their return to the colony.
The Richard Bennett above is not my Richard. Thomas Bennett is mine and the father of my Richard Bennett (not listed), the son of Alice and Thomas and half-brother to Elizabeth.
Records were destroyed in the Civil War, so nothing more is known about Thomas except what was found in the will of Anthony Barham, who was one of Elizabeth’s husbands. Because of this will, we can trace his descendants.
Richard Bennett, Jr., my 9th great-grandfather, was born June 1, 1644, in Isle of Wight, Virginia. He married Ann, last name unknown, and they had five children. Again, you can read about all five in the above link.
Will of Richard Bennett Jr. made on March 3, 1720
Isle Of Wight County, Virginia March ye 3rd Day 1720 In the Name of God Amen. Rich’d Bennett in ye upper parish of Isle of Wight County in Virginia being sick & weak in body yet in perfect memory thanks be to God for it Do therefore do make this my Last Will & Testament as followith-first I Commit my soul to God our Heavenly Father trusting to be saved by Jesus Christ our only Saviour and my body on Earth to be Decently Buried & as for my worldly Goods I bestow as followith I Give and bequeath unto my son Richd Bennett to him & his heirs lawfully begotten of his body two hundred acres of Land & over it being Land where on my Son Richard now lives I give & bequeath unto my son James with ye other two hundred acres of Land where on he now lives. I lay to him & to his heirs lawfully begotton of his Body forever it is a Coveyance of four hundred acres of Land I bought of Mr John Coffers pattin of Land being fourteen hundred & fifty acres 1 Give & bequeath unto Jane Coffer & her two sons Rob Coffer & John Coffer to them & their heirs Lawfully of their body for ever my plantation and land whereon I now live I lay to them & to their heirs for ever it being part of Land Which was bought formerly of Mr Wm Miles I Give and bequeath unto Jane Coffer a small trunk & a Gold Ring and a Great Iron pot I Give & bequeath to Rich Coffer my Long Gun I Give & bequeath to Magdalen Coffer one Great pewter Dish and one Great Basin I Give and bequeath to Francis Manggum my Gran Daughter a feather Bed & all ye belongs to it 2 I Give and bequeath unto my Daughter Silvester a Couple of Dishes & a Couple of plates furthermore I do appoint Jane Coffer & Wm Allen to be my full and whole Exct to pay my Debts & to Receive what is owing to me & when these my Debts being paid ye rest of my Goods within Doores and outDoores to be Equally Divided amongst my Children Desiring this my trusty friends Jno & James Carter to See this my Last Will & testament fulfilled In Witness here of I sett my hand & Seal Rich’d R Bennett (Seal)
Richard Jr.’s daughter, Ann Bennett, married John Cofer circa 1699, my 8th great-grandparent. You can continue this line by reading my previous blog post, The Cofer Legacy: A Journey Through Generations.
Inside the fort at Jamestown, in the cellar seen just below the back wall of a stone foundation, archaeologists found a pendant that dates to the Virginia colony’s earliest years. A seventeenth-century church tower and the 1907 tercentenary obelisk are also seen. ~website at history.org
Reflecting on Family History
Discovering my connection to the Sea Venture and Jamestowne has been an exhilarating journey. It’s incredible to imagine the resilience of my ancestors, from surviving shipwrecks to enduring captivity, and their role in the early days of America. Their stories are not just tales of survival but of strength and determination, echoing across generations to inspire us today.
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A billboard advertising Strawberry Hill is displayed on the corner of North 6th Street and Central Avenue on Friday, Sep. 30, 2022, in Kansas City, Kansas. Emily Curiel ecuriel@kcstar.com
A Serendipitous Encounter with the Past
My journey into the world of genealogy has been filled with unexpected twists and turns, leading me down fascinating paths and uncovering hidden stories. One such discovery was the neighborhood of Strawberry Hill, a vibrant and historic community in Kansas City, Missouri.
The Stephanz Family Connection
My initial encounter with Strawberry Hill came about while researching the Stephanz surname in my family tree. In my blog post about Mathias Paul Stephanz, Jr., I mentioned that he resided at the rear of 411 Sandusky Avenue. This seemingly insignificant detail sparked my curiosity and led me on a deeper dive into the history of this particular address.
Unveiling the Past: The Chops and Wolfs
As I delved further, I discovered that the Stephanz family had neighbors with the surnames Chops and Wolfs (or Volf). Intriguingly, these families also shared a connection to 411 Sandusky Avenue, having lived in the same house at different points in time. This revelation piqued my interest even more, prompting me to explore the history of Strawberry Hill in greater detail.
A Fortunate Discovery: Don Wolf’s Blog and Book
While exploring the rich history of Strawberry Hill, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of information: Don Wolf’s blog and book. Don Wolf, a descendant of the Wolf family who were once neighbors to 411 Sandusky Avenue, had dedicated himself to preserving the history of Strawberry Hill. His work provided invaluable insights into the neighborhood’s past, including stories about the Chops and Wolfs, as well as other families who had called Strawberry Hill home.
Click on the photo to purchase “Croatian Love Story.”
The Heart of Strawberry Hill
Through Don Wolf’s writings and other historical resources, I began to piece together the vibrant tapestry of life in Strawberry Hill. I learned about the neighborhood’s diverse community, its rich cultural heritage, and its significant contributions to the history of Kansas City.
A Legacy of Resilience and Community
As I continued my research, I was struck by the resilience and community spirit that defined Strawberry Hill. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout its history, the neighborhood has persevered, maintaining its unique character and cultural identity.
A Personal Connection to History
My journey into the heart of Strawberry Hill has not only deepened my understanding of my family history but also provided a valuable connection to the broader historical narrative of Kansas City. It is a reminder that every place, every street, and every house has a story to tell, and that by exploring these stories, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the past and the people who shaped it.
Most of the children attended St. John the Baptist Catholic School. I found another interesting blog with photos of Strawberry Hill. One of the pictures I like the most is of his mother walking with groceries – one picture is before the highway, and the other is after. Croatian History.
Strawberry Hill History & Culture “Situated in the heart of downtown Kansas City, Kansas, Strawberry Hill is a Slavic American community with a rich and unique history. It is one of overcoming obstacles and pulling together as a community to thrive and carve out a new home in the Heartland.
During the late 1800s, immigrants from Eastern Europe, a large number of them from Croatia, settled along the riverfront in an area known as “The Patch.” Most of these residents worked in the meat packing industry connected with the livestock exchange.
In 1904, a great flood destroyed many of these homes, forcing residents to move uphill from the river. Many of these immigrant families were forced to build their homes from materials salvaged and recycled from the homes destroyed in the flood and could only afford a narrow parcel of land, giving rise to the modest sized homes in close proximity to each other that dominate Strawberry Hill’s streets and avenues. The wild strawberry vines that covered the hillside gave the new community its name.
Over time, many families chose to grow their homes as their savings and income allowed. Some of the elaborate or stately Victorian homes in Strawberry Hill began as single story homes, or even shot-gun houses, while some of these modest houses have been preserved and retain their cottage size and style. The original paver sidewalks connect the turn-of-the-century folk houses, many of which retain their turned spindle work, stained glass windows, and, above all, their welcoming front porches.
Tragically, in 1918 the Spanish Flu arrived on The Hill. The tightly packed neighborhood exacerbated the spread of the deadly diseased which killed many adults in their 20’s and 30’s, leaving behind many orphans and widowed single parents. In 1919, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church purchased the Cruise-Scroggs home on 4th Street and opened an orphanage to help the orphaned children. It continued to operate as an orphanage until 1988, after which it became today’s museum and cultural center.
In 1957, 219 homes were destroyed to make way for the I-70 bridge. 1st street, 2nd street, 3rd street, and parts of 4th street were destroyed as well as the sections of neighborhood avenues that intersected these streets. Members of our association witnessed the destruction of their childhood homes and lost a portion of their heritage for the sake of the viaduct that connects Kansas City, Kansas to Kansas City, Missouri. St. John’s Park was created in the process of the construction and features a spectacular view of the Kansas City, Missouri skyline.
As recently as 2016, pedestrian trails have been improved as a part of the Riverfront Heritage Trail. This system of trails and pedestrian bridges now allows residents to travel by bike or on foot from Strawberry Hill to Kansas City, Missouri or the nearby Kaw Point Park, among other destinations realized by the extensive network of sidewalks and trails. The pedestrian bridge beneath I-70 near 3rd and Armstrong stretches across the river and features sculptures by a local artist.
The unique history of Strawberry Hill is one of perseverance, hard work, and surviving tragedies as a community. Whether natural disasters, epidemics, economic hardships, or certain destruction in the name of progress…our people have pulled together and weathered the hardest of circumstances. We have built a vibrant and beautiful community from the rubble and continue to thrive as an organized neighborhood that advocates for the preservation of our historic homes and the safety and well being of all residents–regardless of race, gender, age, class, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or political preference.
Our neighborhood association invites you to become a part of our bustling community!”
One of the best depictions of Strawberry Hill is by the artist Marijana Grisnick. Check out these links for her fascinating paintings and a glimpse of where our ancestors grew up.
My unexpected discovery of Strawberry Hill has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my genealogical journey. It has opened my eyes to the rich history that surrounds us and the power of personal stories to connect us to the past. As I continue to explore the depths of my family tree, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounters that have led me to this fascinating corner of history.
I encourage you to embark on your own genealogical journey and uncover the hidden stories within your own family history. You never know what fascinating discoveries await you. And if you have any stories or insights to share about Strawberry Hill, please feel free to leave a comment below. Let’s work together to preserve the rich history of this vibrant community.
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Minnie Baylor Cofer’s roots trace back to her parents, Robert Emmett Cofer and Martha Ann Davis—my third great-grandparents. While much of their story comes from scattered records and family notes, they were both born in Virginia and married at 23 in Norfolk.
Martha Ann Davis: A Life of Privilege and Transition
Martha was the third of eleven children, coming of age during the tumultuous Civil War era. By 1863, President Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation, and battles like Chancellorsville raged nearby. Martha’s granddaughter, Elizabeth Cofer Reed, recalled stories of her grandmother’s privileged upbringing: a private finishing school education, her own carriage with two horses, and never dressing herself until adulthood. Despite this sheltered life, Martha later worked as a professional nurse, as listed in the 1900 census at age 59—quite an accomplishment for a woman of her time.
Martha lived until 78, passing away from heart disease, and was laid to rest beside her husband in Cedar Grove Cemetery, Norfolk City, Virginia.
In my estimate, this is about 1918.The MyHeritage tool estimated this picture to be take circa 1920.
Robert Emmett Cofer: A Skilled Tradesman
Robert was one of ten children, later gaining four half-siblings after his father remarried. Growing up in Surry County, Virginia, Robert learned the craft of carriage making as a teenager, later becoming a wheelwright—a trade that was invaluable to the Confederate Army.1 After 43 years of marriage, Robert succumbed to dysentery at 67.
The Cofer Family’s Antebellum Roots
Robert’s father, Isaac Cofer, owned a plantation in Surry County with a fluctuating number of enslaved individuals, peaking at fifteen by 1860. Following the Civil War, Isaac filed a claim for the loss of his enslaved worker, John, highlighting the entanglement of family history with America’s dark past.
Isaac’s wealth diminished significantly by 1870, and he passed away a few years later. His second marriage to Sarah Jones (possibly related to his first wife, Mary C. Jones) adds another layer to the family tree puzzle.
Isaac’s father, Reverend Joseph Cofer, was a Baptist minister and a patriarch of thirteen children. His first wife, Jerusha Lancaster, died young, leaving behind ten children, while his second wife, Martha Wrenn, added three more. Joseph’s plantation was substantial, with 25 enslaved individuals and connections to significant events like the crafting of samplers commemorating family deaths.
Innovations and Legacy
Isaac’s half-brother, Thomas Wrenn Cofer, stands out for his inventive spirit. During the Civil War, Thomas patented the Cofer revolver, a weapon used by the Confederate Army. 2Today, these rare firearms fetch thousands of dollars and are a testament to the family’s historical imprint.
Tracing Back to England
The Cofer line extends to John Coker, who arrived in America in 1635 aboard the Plain Joan.3 He earned his land through the headright system and eventually settled in Surry County, Virginia.4 Records tie the family to influential figures, including Richard Bennett Jr., and suggest English origins in Dorsetshire.
The video below shows an old grist mill owned by the Wrenn family, which stood on Route 677, north of Smithfield. The video is made from scans of a roll of medium format film taken in the late 1960s with a Yashica Model “D” camera. The mill was demolished in 1989 after a pickup went off the road and crashed into it.5
The below article was something I found in my research while writing this blog. A person from my Isle of Wight Facebook page owns the book and supplied the missing page 90 in order for me to complete my notes.
The book title is In the Neatest Manner: The Making of the Virginia Sampler Tradition By Kimberly Smith Ivey
Southampton, Surry, and Isle of Wight Counties Unity A. Delk and Elizabeth M. Cofer worked almost identical samplers to honor the deaths of their respective parents, Wiley Jones Delk and Jerusha Lancaster Cofer (figs. 123 and 124). An earlier sampler, which was worked by Unity’s older sister, Martha, is not shown here, commemorating their father’s death. In 1824, four years after the death of Wiley Delk, his widow, Martha Wren Delk, of Southampton County, married Joseph Cofer, a Baptist minister from the Isle of Wight and Surry Counties. One year earlier,Joseph’s first wife,
Figure 123 – Sampler by Unity A. Delk, dated Sept. 5, 1834; attributed to Isle of Wight County, Virginia. Figure 124 – Sampler by Elisabeth M. Cofer, age sixteen, dated 1834, attributed to Isle of Wight County, Virginia.
I discovered this information on the Colonial Williamsburg website about a sampler created by Elizabeth M. Cofer, which includes the exact date of Jerusha’s death.6 It would be wonderful to have this, and I am thrilled to have found it! The sampler was passed down in the family to Mary Wrenn Cofer Ballard and was donated to Colonial Williamsburg by her husband, Mr. L. W. Ballard.
A Living History
The Cofer legacy is a tapestry of privilege, hardship, and resilience. From Martha’s cherished stories to the craftsmanship of Robert and Thomas, every thread connects to the broader narrative of Virginia’s history. Artifacts like Elizabeth M. Cofer’s 1834 sampler—now at Colonial Williamsburg—offer tangible links to these ancestors, reminding us of the enduring impact of their lives.
Filby, P. William, Meyer, Mary K., Passenger and immigration lists index : a guide to published arrival records of about 500,000 passengers who came to the United States and Canada in the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries. 1982-1985 Cumulated Supplements in Four Volumes Detroit, Mich. : Gale Research Co., 1985, Print (ISBN 0-8103-1795-8) ↩︎
In 2019, I embarked on a journey to write and self-publish two books about my Logan ancestry. My goal wasn’t fame or fortune; it was to create a legacy for future generations. Since then, I’ve refined my writing skills (hopefully!) and have since re-released updated editions of these books. One of these is The Lowland Logans —
“But, I am dead. I died in July of 1606. How can they convict me? They took all my lands, all my possessions. They dug up my bones and put them on trial. Yes, they put my bones on trial! And, they found my bones guilty of treason! They said I forfeited my rights because I could not testify. I AM DEAD! I died two years ago. Now they’ve confiscated my property, my lands, and my title was abolished. My heirs were stripped of their titles and holdings, they could not run for office, they were denied the privilege of their noble birth, and my estate, which included lands with four castles and monies valued at over £29,042. I was a multi-millionaire and they took it all!”
The second, Descendants of John Logan, Sr. of Washington, Connecticut, is a more traditional genealogy, including photos of the family homestead, historical article excerpts, and treasured memories.
Inspired by a letter from my great-grandfather, I also wrote a Vella series, weaving family history into a non-fictional narrative of lost and rediscovered stories.
You can click on each one to find them in Kindle.
I hope these works inspire future generations to discover the rich, resilient heritage woven into our family’s story and perhaps even uncover their own.
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(Jeanne’s grandmother and James were 5th cousins.)
In 2002, he was inducted into South Carolina’s Hall of Fame. 
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