Clarion County Historical Society: The Families of Clarion County, Pennsylvania

I am bound to them, though I cannot look into their eyes or hear their voices. 
I honor their history. I cherish their lives. 

I will tell their story. I will remember them.

~Author Unknown

The Clarion County Historical Society is publishing a new book The Families of Clarion County, Pennsylvania in commemoration with the 60th anniversary of the society.  

The Clarion Historical Society Website indicates that the book will include the history and stories of Clarion County families, communities, churches, schools, businesses, farms, clubs, memorials, tributes, organizations, and much more.

The Clarion County Historical Society is encouraging family historians to submit family histories. The historical book will only be available for purchase on a Pre-Sale basis. The book will be hard backed with gold lettering and is anticipated to be between 200-300 pages. To learn more or order a copy visit the website. 

Submissions and purchases must be made prior to December 7, 2015. 

To ensure our Clarion County ancestors are included in the history book I will be preparing submissions for the following families. Submissions that will include photographs are noted with a P.

The McDonald Family:

• Generation 1: David McDonald & Bridget Dunn
• Generation 2: James M. McDonald & Bridget Moran, P
• Generation 2: Mary Ann McDonald & William Kelly
• Generation 2: John McDonald
• Generation 2: Michael McDonald & Anna Haggerty, P
• Generation 2: Andrew McDonald & Anna Sharrow, P
• Generation 2: Bridget McDonald & Thomas C. Haggerty
• Generation 2: David F. McDonald & Hannah E. McCloskey
• Generation 2: Peter McDonald
• Generation 3: Robert Alphonsus McDonald & Winifred Agnes O'Neill, P

The Haggerty Family:

• Robert H. Haggerty & Rebecca M. Easly, P

The Loll Family:

• Antoine Loll

The Guth Family:

• Leopold Guth & Theresa Loll, P

The Selker Family: 

• Joseph William Selker & Frances Philomena Guth, P

The publication of Our Ancestors The Book: Volume 2: The Bukowski Family History may be impacted due to the submission deadline for The Families of Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

Our Ancestors The Book: Volume 2: The Bukowski Family History

The second book in the Our Ancestors series is currently in development and will be focused solely on three generations of the Bukowski family:

Generation 1 - The European Ancestors - Ignacy Kwiatkowski & Julianna Kłos
Generation 2 - The immigrants - Vincinety Frank Bukowski & Franciska Kwiatkowski
Generation 3 - Children of Vincinety Frank Bukowski & Franciska Kwiatkowski

Our Ancestors The Book: Volume 2: The Bukowski Family History will feature a written history that incorporates family photographs and historical documents into a 12x12 hardcover book with dust jacket printed on high quality paper. The first volume in the series- Our Ancestors The Book: Volume 1: The Murosky and Bukowski Family History was completed in December of 2011.

The foundation of Volume 2 uses the original content content featured in Volume 1. This book will incorporate research updates including the addition of new previously unknown family members, marriage records, the 1940 census, other historical documents and additional research notes. Many new databases are now available which have added additional content and filled in gaps in the Bukowski family history.

Volume 2 will also feature many photographs not included in the original. New photographs of the Bukowski family were obtained spring of 2014. Some of these photographs have already been shared in conjunction with the Portraits of a Life project.

The book will be organized into the following format:

Chapter 1, is a brief introduction into the family research and the organization of the book.

Chapter 2,  currently at 36 pages, tells the story of the Bukowski family history, starting with my great-great grandparents Vincinety Frank Bukowski and Franciska Kwiatkowski. This section also includes photographs and historical documents.

Chapter 3, currently at 108 pages, provides detailed accounts accounts for each of  the children of Vincinety Frank Bukowski and Franciska Kwiatkowski. This section also includes photographs and historical documents.

Chapter 4, features some of the well known family recipes.

A few previews of the work in progress:

Volume 2: Table of Contents

Volume 2: Sample Layout featuring a historical document and photograph. 

The book will also include a reference list and an index.

The current work in progress is close to 200 pages. Upon completion Blurb will be used tor provide high quality printing. The book will remain available online with Blurb to purchase copies at any time.

The current projection is that the book will be completed for the 2015 holiday season.

Ignacy Kwiatkowski & Julianna Kłos are my 3rd great-grandparents. Their daughter Franciska Kwiatkowski is my 2nd great grandmother. Franciska is the mother of my great-grandmother Helen Tillie Bukowski. Helen's son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather.

In Memory of Lost Infants

October 15 is the yearly observance of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day in the United States. The day is for the remembrance of pregnancy loss and infant deaths.

To ensure their memory is preserved the following is a list of deceased infants recorded in the family tree. The infants are sorted by surname followed by birth date. All known details are included. The list is limited to children age 12 months and younger.

1. Arentz, Margaret  born 04 Sep 1790. Died 06-Mar-1791 at age 6 mos.  Daughter of Jacob Arentz and Margaret Schmidt. Buried at St. Paul's Chapel in Bally, Berks, Pennsylvania, USA.
2. Bukowski, Josefa born 29 July 1908 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 11 Jan 1909 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 5 mos.  Cause of Death recorded as acute indigestion from bottle feeding. Daughter of Vincinety Frank Bukowski and Franciska Kwiatkowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
3. Bukowski, Edward born 3 Feb 1911 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 12 Feb 1911 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 9 days.  Cause of death recorded as gastroenteritis and bronchitis.  Son of Vincinety Frank Bukowski and Franciska Kwiatkowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
4. Bukowski, Baby Girl born 10 Jan 1924 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 10 Jan 1924 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA. Cause of death recorded as stillborn.  Daughter of Gustave Joseph Bukowski and Elsie Gaczkowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
5. Bukowski, Frances born 14 May 1927 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 26 Oct 1927 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 5 mos. Cause of death recorded as abscess of the middle ear.  Son of John Frank Bukowski and Theresa Filipkowski. Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
6. Chanis, Raymond born 4 Nov 1917 in Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 10 Aug 1918 in Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, USA age 9 mos.  Cause of death recorded as gastroenteritis. Son of John Chanis and Margaret Murosky.  Buried at St. Anthony Cemetery in Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, USA.
7. Ditz, Anna born 13 Oct 1918 in Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 2 Mar 1919 in Washington, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA age 4 mos.  Cause of death recorded as pneumonia. Daughter of Lawrence Ditz and Marcella Loll.  Buried at St. Michael's Cemetery in Fryburg, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.
8. Ditz, Robert Henry born 14 Jan 1920 in Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 30 Apr 1920 in Washington, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA age 3 mos.  Cause of death recorded as seizures. Son of Lawrence Ditz and Marcella Loll.  Buried at St. Michael's Cemetery in Fryburg, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.
9. Fletcher, Francisca born 02 Mar 1855.  Died 16 Jun 1856 age 15 mos.  Daughter of Bernard Fletcher and Catherine Loll. 
10. Gaczkowski, Baby Bpy born 17 Jan 1915 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 18 Jan 1915 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 1 day.  Cause of death recorded as premature. Son of Frank J. Gaczkowski and Teo Fila Bukowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
11. Greenawalt, Anna Maria born 23 Sep 1774 in Macungie, Lehigh, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 31 Oct 1774 in Macungie, Lehigh, Pennsylvania, USA age 1 mos.  Daughter of John Greenawalt and Anna Barbara Schmidt.  Buried at in Bally, Berks, Pennsylvania, USA.
12. Greenawalt, John Jr. born Abt. 1780.  Died 08 Sep 1780 in Berks, Pennsylvania, USA age 8 mos.  Son of John Greenawalt and Anna Barbara Schmidt. 
13. Guth, Xaver born 20 Nov 1810 in Neusimonswald, Baden, Germany.  Died 07 Mar 1811 in Simonswald, Baden, Germany age 3 mos.  Son of  and Magdalena Guth. 
14. Guth, Constantina born 07 Feb 1837 in Neusimonswald, Baden, Germany.  Died 24 Apr 1838 in Neusimonswald, Baden, Germany age 14 mos.  Daughter of Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch. 
15. Guth, Theresia born 18 Dec 1840 in Neusimonswald, Baden, Germany.  Died 27 Dec 1840 in Neusimmonswald, Baden, Germany age 9 days.  Son of Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch. 
16. Guth, Frances Xavier  born 1849.  Died 29 Jul 1849 in Shippenville, Pennsylvania age 6 mos.  Son of Francis Xavier Guth and Fortunata Kemmerer. 
17. Haggerty, Frederick born 1182 in Farmington Township, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Died 1882 in Farmington Township, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Son of Jeremiah Haggerty and Magdalena Bostpah.
18. Haggerty, Joseph A.  born 1885 in Farmington Township, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.  Died 1886 in Farmington Township, Clarion County, Pennsylvania age 12 mos.  Son of James Haggerty and Mary Kerr.  Buried at St. Mary's Church - Crown Cemetery in Crown, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.
19. Hazlett, Barbara Ann.  Daughter of Leland M. Hazlett and Hazel Jones. 
20. Hufner, Maria born 07 Oct 1858 in Unterriedenburg, Province of Bruchenau, Germany.  Died 12 Oct 1858 in Unterriedenburg, Province of Bruchenau, Germany age 5 days.  Daughter of Johann George Hufner and Maria Barbara Neuland. 
21. Hufner, Anton  born 16 Jun 1854 in Unterriedenburg, Province of Bruchenau, Germany.  Died 17 Jun 1854 in Unterriedenburg, Province of Bruchenau, Germany age 1 day.  Son of Johann George Hufner and Maria Barbara Neuland. 
22. Lauer, Anna Maria born 30 Jul 1874 in Knox Township, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.  Died 17 Aug 1874 age 18 days.  Daughter of John Lauer and Francisca Loll. 
23. Lauer, Maria born 10 Dec 1876 in Clarion County, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 02 Jan 1877 age 23 days.  Son of John Lauer and Francisca Loll. 
24. Lauer, Theresa  born 26 Mar 1888.  Died 12 Jun 1888  age 2 mos.  Daughter of John Lauer and Francisca Loll. 
25. Lauer, Baby. Unknown child of George Lauer and Ursula Bendorfer. 
26. Lauer, Baby Girl born 1 Feb 1911 in Sugarcreek, Venango, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 1 Feb 1911 in Sugarcreek, Venango, Pennsylvania, USA. Cause of death recorded as Stillborn.   Daughter of Augustine Benedict Lauer Sr. and Philomena Selker.  Buried at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Oil City, Venango, Pennsylvania, USA.
27. Lauer, Frances Isabelle born 1 Aug 1917 in Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 5 May 1918 in Kittanning, Armstrong, Pennsylvania, USA age 6 mos. Cause of death recorded as Pneumonia due to Whooping Cough.  Daughter of Augustine Benedict Lauer Sr. and Philomena Selker.  Buried at St. Mary's Church Cemetery in Oil City, Venango, Pennsylvania, USA.
28. Lauer, Barbara J.  born 1 Aug 1917.  Died 5 Feb 1918 age 5 mos.  Daughter of John R. Lauer and Margaret M. Schwabenbauer. 
29. Loll, Unknown. Unknown Child of Maurice Loll and Ada Meyer. 
30. Loll, Unknown. Unknown Child of Maurice Loll and Ada Meyer. 
31. Loll, Edward. Son of Anselm Lambert Loll and Mary K Eccles. 
32. Loll, Katherine.  Daughter of Anselm Lambert Loll and Mary K Eccles.   
33. Loll, Ludovius. Died 26 Dec 1745 in France age .  Son of Joanne Loll and Margaritha Meyer. 
34. Loll, Joanne Petrus  born 04-Sep-1733 in Muntzenheim, Alsace, France.  Died 10-Sep-1733 in Muntzenheim, Alsace, France age 6 days.  Son of Joanne Petrus Loll and Maria Untersinger. 
35. Loll, Michael born 06 Sep 1746 in France.  Died 22 Sep 1746 in France age 16 days.  Son of Valentine Loll and Ursula Holinger. 
36. Loll, Louise born 21 Feb 1869 in Scotch Hill, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.  Died 30 Jun 1870 age 16 mos.  Cause of death recorded as Gout. Daughter of Joseph Loll and Helen Eisenman. 
37. Loll, George born 07 Jul 1877 in Fryburg, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 21 Dec 1878 age 17 mos.  Cause of death recorded as croop. Son of George J. Loll and Priscilla Lauer. 
38. Loll, Charles Joseph born 1895. Died 30-Sep-1895 age 8 mos.  Son of Edward G. Loll and Catherine Weiss. 
39. Loll, Charles H. born 1950.  Died 1951 age 12 mos.  Son of Charles Joseph Loll and Beverly Howard. 
40. Loll, John Ward born 19 Sept 1923.  Died 22 Jan 1924 age 4 mos.  Son of Anthony Loll and Claire LaMartin. 
41. McDonald, Joseph Michael born 18 Apr 1883 in Vowinckel, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 07 Sep 1883 in Vowinckel, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA age 4 mos.  Son of Michael McDonald and Anna Haggerty. 
42. McDonald, Mary Elizabeth born 5 May 1913 in Pittsburgh, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 9 Aug 1913 in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA age 3 mos.  Daughter of Ambrose Aloysius McDonald and Gertrude Anna O'Neill.  Buried in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.
43. McDonald, Winifred Agnes born 15 Dec 1918.  Died 18 Dec 1918 age 3 days.  Daughter of Robert Alphonsus McDonald and Winifred Agnes O'Neill. 
44. McDonald, Michael Robert born 10 May 1971 in .  Died 8 July 1971 in  age 1 mos.  Son of Michael Richard McDonald and Patricia Carole Gordon.  .
45. Murosky, Frank born 18 May 1907 in Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 26 Oct 1907 in Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, USA age 5 mos.  Cause of death recorded Intestinal Obstruction.  Son of Anthony Murosky Sr. and Eva Zielinski.  Buried at St. Agnes Cemetery in Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, USA.
46. Murosky, George born 1 June 1918 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 2 June 1918 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 1 day.  Cause of death recorded as Premature. Son of Anthony Harry Murosky Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
47. Murosky, Florence born 28 March 1922 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 6 June 1922 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 2 mos.  Cause of death recorded as premature birth at 7 months gestation. Daughter of Anthony Harry Murosky Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
48. Murosky, Erica Anne born 22 May 1984 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 29 May 1984 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 7 days.  Daughter of Thomas Charles Murosky and Mary Leah Matheis.  Buried at Wintergreen George Cemetry in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
49. Pietrzak, Richard born 3 April 1924 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 2 October 1924 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 5 mos.  Cause of death recorded as Colitis and Meningitis staphylococcal infection. Son of Stanley Pietrzak and Clara Tillie Bukowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.
50. Rhea, Gregory Jerard born 11 Nov 1952 in Brookville, Jefferson, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 11 Nov 1952 in Brookville, Jefferson, Pennsylvania, USA age 1 day.  Cause of death recorded as premature. Son of Daryl W. Rhea Sr. and Helen Lucille Selker. 
51. Rösch, Johannes born 24 Jun 1791 in Neusimonswald, Baden, Germany.  Died 1791 in Neusimonswald, Baden, Germany age .  Son of Johann Rösch and Katherina Wintermantel. 
52. Selker, Anna Mary born 2 Jan 1914 in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 19 Apr  1914 in Paint, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA age 3 mos.  Cause of death recorded as Convulsions, secondary Indigestion. Daughter of Edward C. Selker Sr. and Eva Theresa Margaret Zacherl.  Buried in Lucinda, Clarion, Pennsylvania, USA.
53. Shannon, Francis Thomas born 19 June 1929 in Brookville, Jefferson,  Pennsylvania, USA. Died 19 June 1929 in Brookville, Jefferson,  Pennsylvania, USA. Cause of death recorded as still born, strangled at birth by umbilical cord. 
54. Zelazny, Frank born 4 Oct 1911 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.  Died 8 Oct 1911 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA age 4 days.  Son of Joseph Stanislaus Zelazny and Catherine M Bukowski.  Buried at Trinity Cemetery in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.

References:

There are numerous sources that were referenced. References include but may not be limited to:

1. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Death Certificates, 1906-1963 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2014.
2. Church records
3. First hand information from individuals.

William Murosky - WWII Veteran

William Murosky is the fourth recorded child born to Anthony Murosky, Sr. and Eva Zielinski in Forest City, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. He was born July 11, 1902. William also went by Bill. In 1910, William was living with his parents at 128 Delaware Street. At age 7, he was recorded to be attending school.

In the 1920 United States Federal Census he is recorded as Willie. He was living with his parents at 408 Main Street in Forest City, Pennsylvania. He was able to read, write and speak English. When the census was taken in January of 1920 he was not working.

Following the path of his siblings, William also relocated to Erie, Erie County Pennsylvania. William was recorded renting a home at 523 E 21st Street in  Erie, Erie County Pennsylvania in 1940 per the 1940 Erie City Directory. On August 12, 1942 at age 40 he enlisted in the Army under the name William Muroski. He was living in Erie, Pennsylvania when he enlisted. The enlistment records indicate he was single, with dependents. No additional details are currently known about the dependents referenced. It is unknown if William ever married. William served as a Private in the Army Air Corps, a branch within the Army Air Force, between August 12, 1942 and January 27, 1943.

One of the only photographs of William Murosky

He is also recorded as living in Erie when his brother Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. died in January of 1950. William died on October 22, 1971 in Erie, Erie County Pennsylvania at age 69. He was buried at Calvary Cemetery, Lot No 35, Grave 1095. His tombstone reads William Muroski.

This holiday greeting card is one of the only known photographs of William Murosky. The date of the photograph is unknown. The photograph was located in an old black page album that was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen was married to Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. who was the brother of William Murosky. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

William Murosky is my 2nd great uncle. William Murosky is the brother of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. 

References:

1. 1910 United States Federal Census. Year: 1910; Census Place: Forest Ward 1, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania; Roll: T624_1421; Page: 13A; Enumeration District: 0064; FHL microfilm: 1375434. Record for Anthony Meroskie.
2. 1920 United States Federal Census. Year: 1920; Census Place: Forest City Ward 1, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania; Roll: T625_1655; Page: 3A; Enumeration District: 68; Image: 226. Record for Anthony Maroski.
3. Ancestry.com. U.S. City Directories, 1822-1989 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2011. Erie, Pennsylvania, City Directory, 1940. Page 347 of 617.  
4. National Archives and Records Administration. U.S. World War II Army Enlistment Records, 1938-1946 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2005. Record for William Muroski. 
5. Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania Veterans Burial Cards, 1929-1990; Series Number: Series 1. Record for William Muroski.

1936 - Charles, Sophie & Rita Murosky Family Photos

Charles W. Murosky was the son of Lithuanian immigrants Anthony Murosky, Sr. and Eva Zielinski. He was born August 1913 in Forest City, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. The 1930 United States Federal Census records Charles living with his parents in Forest City, Pennsylvania.

In 1932 Charles W. Murosky married Sophie E. Morosky. Sophie E. Morosky was born 1912 in Forest City, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. It is most likely that Charles and Sophie met in Forest City, Pennsylvania. Their oldest daughter Rita was born in 1933, followed by daughter Rosalee born in 1935 and a son Edward born in 1939.

The 1940 United States Federal Census records Charles and Sophie residing at 526 East 22nd Street in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The couple was enumerated with their three children and Sophie's brother John Morosky. The census also indicates that in 1935 the couple was living in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. It is currently unknown when the couple relocated from Forest City to Erie.

Charles W. Murosky and Sophie M. Morosky were photographed with their daughter Rita in 1936. When photographed Charles would have been approximately 23 years old, Sophie would have been approximately 24 years old and Rita would have been approximately 3 years old. The location where the photographs were taken is unknown.

Sophie E. Morosky photographed with her daughter Rita in 1936.

Charles W. Murosky photographed with his daughter Rita Murosky

From the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen was married to Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. who was the brother of Charles Murosky.. Helen recorded the date on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Charles W. Murosky and Sophie E. Morosky are my 2nd great aunt and uncle. Charles W. Murosky is the brother of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. 

References:

1. 1920 United States Federal Census. Year: 1920; Census Place: Forest City Ward 1, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania; Roll: T625_1655; Page: 7A; Enumeration District: 68; Image: 234 Record for Stanley Marasky. 
2. 1930 United States Federal Census. Year: 1930; Census Place: Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania; Roll: 2151; Page: 17A; Enumeration District: 0013; Image: 233.0; FHL microfilm: 2341885. Record for Anthony Moraski. 
3. 1940 United States Federal Census. Year: 1940; Census Place: Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania; Roll: T627_3650; Page: 10A; Enumeration District: 68-76. Record for Charles W Morosky.

1924 - Arthur Murosky

Arthur Murosky photographed in 1924. Arthur would have been 4 or 5 years old in the photograph. The photograph was likely taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Arthur was the son of Helen Tillie Bukowski and Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. There are other photographs of Arthur Murosky taken the same day in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen had recorded the date on those photographs as 1924.

Arthur Murosky - age 4 or 5

From the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen recorded the names, date and location on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski are my great grandparents. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. 

Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald - Application for Marriage License

The application for marriage license for Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald was filed July 28, 1941 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The duplicate was returned August 26, 1941. The couple's marriage date was recorded as August 9, 1941.

The application for marriage license offers some interesting details about the Arthur and Mary Eugenia's life in 1941. The first page in the file is the Application for Marriage License.

Application for Marriage License
Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950 004480649 Image 723 of 829

From the Statement of Male:

Arthur's name is recorded as Arthur J. Murosky. This variation of his name included his confirmation name. He was employed as a machinist - this skilled labor position would keep him at home when the war efforts went into full swing in a few years time. He is recorded living in his parents home at 729 E. 24th Street. This is the same address where his family was living when the 1940 United States Federal Census was recorded.

The application indicates he was born in Erie, Pennsylvania - the son of Anthony Murosky and Helen Bukowski. His father was also employed as a machinist and his mother a housewife. His father's birth place is recorded as Forest City, Pennsylvania and his mother's Erie, Pennsylvania. Arthur was 22 when the application was filed. The application also notes he is physically able to support a family.

From the Statement of Female:

Mary Eugenia is listed with her full name - Mary Eugenia McDonald. She was employed as a Clerk at the Boston Store. She is recorded living in her parents home at 422 East 19th Street. This is the same address where her family was living when the 1940 United States Federal Census was recorded.

The application indicates she was born in Strattanville, Clarion County, Pennsylvania - the daughter of Loraine McDonald and Frances Selker. Her father was employed as an 'ecectrian' (most likely electrician) and her mother a housewife. Her father's birth place is recorded as Vowinckle, Clarion County, Pennsylvania and her mother's birth place Clarion, Clarion Country, Pennsylvania. Mary Eugenia was 19 when the statement was filed.

The couple's signatures are included on the Application for Marriage Lcense

Signatures of Bride and Groom
Application for Marriage License
Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950 004480649 Image 723 of 829

Mary Eugenia's father Loraine McDonald had to complete the second page of the Application for Marriage License - the Consent to the Marriage of Child or Ward. This indicated he was aware of her intended marriage to Arthur.

Application for Marriage License - Consent to the Marriage of Child or Ward
Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950 004480649 Image 724 of 829

The Consent to the Marriage of Child or Ward contains Loraine's signature.

Signature of Loraine McDonald
Consent to the Marriage of Child or Ward
Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950 004480649 Image 724 of 829

Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. He was the son of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski. Mary Eugenia McDonald is my maternal grandmother. She was the daughter of Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker.  

References:

1. "Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1-159363-39562-94?cc=1589502 : accessed 26 August 2015), 004480649 > image 723 of 829; county courthouses, Pennsylvania.
2. "Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1-159363-39562-94?cc=1589502 : accessed 26 August 2015), 004480649 > image 724 of 829; county courthouses, Pennsylvania.
3. 1940 United States Federal Census.Year: 1940; Census Place: Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania; Roll: T627_3650; Page: 3A; Enumeration District: 68-77. Record for Loraine McDonald.
4. 1940 United States Federal Census. Year: 1940; Census Place: Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania; Roll: T627_3650; Page: 3A; Enumeration District: 68-85. Record for Anthony Murosky

Wedding Portraits: Arthur Murosky & Mary Eugenia McDonald

The marriage of Arthur and Mary Eugenia blended two Catholic families from different cultural backgrounds. Arthur descended from Polish and Lithuanian families that had settled in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania where Arthur was born. He was the son of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski. Mary Eugenia descended from French, German and Irish families that had settled in Clarion County, Pennsylvania. She was born in Strattanville, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Her parents, Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker, relocated to Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania in the 1920's in search of work.

There are some known details about how Arthur and Mary Eugenia met. When interviewed in the late 1990's Arthur indicated he initially met  Mary Eugenia in 1936 when they were both checking out books at the Wilson Library. He said:  "I met Jean at the Wilson Library.  We used to hang out there and walk the girls home."  Arthur would have been 17 and Mary Eugenia would have been 14.

The "we" Arthur mentions may be his group of friends he called "The Gang". Included in "The Gang" were Arthur, Gene, Fred and a girl named Charlotte. It is plausible "The Gang" was at the library that day. Charlotte was best friends with Mary Eugenia. The girl's friendship may explain how Arthur became acquainted with Mary Eugenia.

It isn't known exactly when the courtship between the couple started. The Wilson Library Arthur mentions is most likely the library associated with the current Woodrow Wilson Middle School located at 718 E. 28th Street. The school is about one mile from 422 E. 19th Street (near the intersection of 19th Street and Parade Street) where Mary Eugenia was living with her family in 1940. The 2-story home had a second floor porch where Arthur said the couple would "sit and smooch while courting."

Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald were married August 9, 1941 at 9 o'clock in the morning at St. John's Roman Catholic Church in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Arthur was 22 years old and Mary Eugenia was 19 years old when they were married. A grouping of formal portraits were taken to commemorate the marriage. The couple remained inseparable for their fifty-six years of marriage. After Mary Eugenia's death in 1998 Arthur never remarried and he always kept her photograph by his bedside.

Arthur & Mary Eugenia
Black and White Portrait

Mary Eugenia
Color Portrait

Mary Eugenia
Black and White Portrait

Wedding Party
Back (L-R): Edward V. Murosky (Groomsman and Brother of the Groom), Arthur Murosky (Groom), Mary Eugenia McDonald (Bride), Loraine Anthony McDonald (Father of the Bride), 
Frances Winifred McDonald (Maid of Honor and Sister of the Bride), 
Ray McCosky (Best Man and Groom's best friend), Harry Anthony Murosky (Groomsman and brother of the groom)

Front (L-R): Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald (Flower Girl and Sister of the Bride), Eleanor Lucille McDonald (Bridesmaid), Rita Ann Murosky (Bridesmaid and Sister of the Groom), 
Marian Elaine Murosky (Flower Girl and Sister of the Groom)

From the Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. He was the son of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski. Mary Eugenia McDonald is my maternal grandmother. She was the daughter of Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker. 

References:

1. Personal interview with Arthur Murosky, late 1990's.
2. Special thanks to family friend Debi Johnson who during the summer of 2014 asked Arthur questions. Some of these details would be unknown without her.
3. 1940 United States Federal Census.Year: 1940; Census Place: Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania; Roll: T627_3650; Page: 3A; Enumeration District: 68-77. Record for Loraine McDonald.

Wedding Invitation: Arthur Murosky & Mary Eugenia McDonald

A photograph of an original invitation from the wedding of Mary Eugenia McDonald and Arthur Murosky. A copy of the wedding invitation, from 1941, was included in a box of old photographs. The invitation uses Arthur J. Murosky, an alternate name for Arthur. The J. represents Joseph which was his confirmation name. This name variation has also been found on some older documents.

Arthur and Mary Eugenia were married August 9, 1941 in their hometown of Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania at St. John's Roman Catholic Church.

From the Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. He was the son of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski. Mary Eugenia McDonald is my maternal grandmother. She was the daughter of Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker.

Engagement Photographs: Arthur Murosky & Mary Eugenia McDonald

Engagement photographs of Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald. The photographs were most likely taken in 1941. Arthur and Mary Eugenia were married August 9, 1941 in their hometown of Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The formal portraits include color photographs and black and white photographs. Mary Eugenia would have been 19 years old and Arthur would have been 22 years old in these photographs.

Mary Eugenia McDonald
Engagement Photograph

Arthur Murosky
Engagement Photograph

Arthur Murosky & Mary Eugenia McDonald
Engagement Photograph

From the Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. He was the son of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski. Mary Eugenia McDonald is my maternal grandmother. She was the daughter of Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker. 

Anthony Murosky Sr. and Eva Zielinski - Application for Marriage License

The application for marriage license for Anthony Murosky and Eva Zielinski was filed January 16, 1885 in Forest City, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. It was previously known from information included in the 1910 United States Federal Census that Anthony and Eva were married in Pennsylvania. The 1910 United States Federal Census also indicated that Anthony arrived in 1892 and Eva in 1894. Given their separate arrivals the couple met in the Forest City Community or by attending the same church.

After locating the application for marriage license I shared with the folks at the website PolishOrigins.com. The researches at the site had some interesting observations, especially has they had assisted with translating the original Lithuanian names recorded on a birth certificate for Anthony and Eva's son Frank. To learn more about the translation visit the blog post The Original Lithuanian Spelling - Murauskas.

The application for marriage license offers some previously unknown details about the Anthony and Eva - including some additional spelling variations of Murosky and Zelensky. This particular application for marriage license includes three pages - a cover page, the application for marriage license and a duplicate certificate.

Cover Page
Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950 004838983 Image 520 of 2047

The first page in the file is the cover page. The cover page of the file lists the marriage application number, the names of the individuals to be married and the date the application was filed.

Observations from the cover page:

• Note the spelling Antoni Morofskey and Eva Zelenskey. Each name has an "ey" added to both surnames.
• This is the first instance I have observed of the 'f" being used in the surname. The use of the "f" in the surname may have been the name being recorded phonetically by the Justice of the Peace or a Clerk. Antoni would have very likely had an Eastern European accent. 
• The Application was filed January 16, 1895
• The filing location was Forest City, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, United States 

Application for Marriage License
Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950 004838983 Image 521 of 2047

The second page is the marriage license application. The names on the license are recorded by the Justice of the Peace based by the matching hand writing. The names are recorded as Anthony Morofskey and Eva Zelenskey.

The marriage license provides previously unknown details - birth dates for Anthony and Eva. The marriage license indicates Anthony was born May 20, 1867 in Poland and that his occupation is a miner. This supports what was previously known about Anthony - that he worked as a coal miner in Forest City. The marriage license also indicates that Eva was born November 15, 1873 in Poland and that she was employed as a domestic servant. The birth certificate for Frank Murauskas indicated that Eva was working as a housekeeper in 1907.

The birth reference location to Poland also aligns with other previously known details. The birth certificate for Frank Murauskas indicates that Anthony and Eva were born in the Suwałki Governorate. The Suwałki Governorate was an administrative unit of the Congress of Poland. The general use of Poland on the application for marriage license would have included this area.

Signature of Anthony Murosky, Sr.

The application for marriage license was signed by Anthony. PolishOrigins.com researcher Elzbieta Porteneuve also had a few interesting observations about the application for marriage license and Anthony's signature: 

• Note that the Justice of the Peace,  Justice Makey wrote groom’s and bride’s name as his own, with the same ending adding the 'ey'. He spelled the names 
Morofskey  and Zelenskey. 
• The Justice of the Peace also spelled Anthony adding the "t" where the original signature does not include the "h".
• Antoni’s name written by himself. He has difficulties to write as seen in his first name Antoni, but it’s 
• clear his real name starts with “Mur” and ends with “ki”.

Duplicate Certificate
Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950_004838983 Image 522 of 2047

The third page in the file is the Duplicate Certificate. The duplicate certificate was completed by the Rev. F. Kuray and returned. The duplicate certificate indicates the couple was married January 22, 1895 in Forest City, Pennsylvania. This version of the spelling is Antoni Murofsky and Eva Zelenskey.

Note that on three different pages in the same file the names have been spelled multiple ways.
Antoni Morofskey, Anthony Morofskey and Antoni Murofsky.

Antoni Murauskas and Ewa Zilinskaite are my 2nd great-grandparents. Their son Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. is my great grandfather. Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr's s son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. 

References:

1. "Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1951-21150-8097-73?cc=1589502 : accessed 2 May 2015), 004838983 > image 520 of 2047; county courthouses, Pennsylvania.
2. "Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1951-21150-8105-4?cc=1589502 : accessed 2 May 2015), 004838983 > image 521 of 2047; county courthouses, Pennsylvania.
3. "Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1942-21150-8511-99?cc=1589502 : accessed 2 May 2015), 004838983 > image 522 of 2047; county courthouses, Pennsylvania.
4. "Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950," index and images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.3.1/TH-1951-21123-37079-92?cc=1589502 : accessed 2 May 2015), 004838912 > image 413 of 625; county courthouses, Pennsylvania.
5. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Birth Records, 1906-1908 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2015. Record for Frank Murauckas.
6. 1910 U. S. census, 1910 United States Federal Census schedule, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania; Online Images, Record for Anthony Meroski
7. PolishOrigins Forum 
8. Wikipedia: Suwałki Governorate

1944 - Barbara Jean Murosky

Barbara Jean Murosky, the daughter of Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald, photographed in 1944. The photograph was likely taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Note the curl in her hair - the finger curl was a common style for babies at this time.

Barbara Jean Murosky

From the Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald are my paternal grandparents. Barbara Jean Murosky is my aunt.

James Arthur Murosky - First Holy Communion

James Arthur Murosky, the son of Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald was born October 8, 1942 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The family were members of the Roman Catholic Church.

The following photographs were taken on the day James Arthur made his First Holy Communion. His sister Barbara Jean confirms that children typically made their First Holy Communion in the spring of 2nd grade.

If James made his First Communion in the spring of 2nd Grade the photographs would have been taken in 1950. James would have been about 8 years old in the photograph below.

James Arthur Murosky

James photographed with his paternal grandmother Helen Tillie Bukowski. If the photo was taken spring of 1950 Helen would have been  49 years old.

James Arthur & Helen Tillie

From the Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald are my paternal grandparents. James Arthur Murosky is my uncle. Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother. 

Private Andrew J. Haggerty - Civil War, Pennsylvania Infantry, 148th Regiment, Company I

Andrew J. Haggerty was likely born 1839 in Farmington, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Robert H. Haggerty and Rebecca M. Easly. Between 1832 and 1833 Robert and Rebecca relocated from Sugar Creek, Butler County, Pennsylvania to Farmington. The couple lived out their life on the family farm in in Farmington.

The family was enumerated in the 1850 United States Federal Census for Farmington, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. The household included Robert, Rebecca, Andrew, Thomas, James, Ann and Elizabeth. Andrew was recorded as age 11 in the census, placing his birth year around 1839.

When the 1860 United States Federal census was recorded in June of 1860 Andrew was not enumerated in his parents household in Farmington, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Andrew would have been around age 21 based on the 1839 birth date. After searching the 1860 census - it appears that Andrew may not have been enumerated. There are no obvious hits for Andrew even after searching a variety of name variations.

It is plausible that Andrew was working in a remote logging camp. Farmington borders the vast Allegheny National Forest. Logging was a way of life for many residents of the Farmington community. Andrew's sister married into the McDonald family which were known loggers and river pilots. In the 1860's Farmington would have been very remote. Any logging camps located deep into the forest may not have been enumerated. If Andrew was working at a logging camp it is possible be could have been away from camp or traveling when/if the camp was enumerated.

Andrew's location remains unknown until the early 1860's. One of the stories passed down through the Haggerty family is that Andrew Haggerty fought and died in the Civil War. This was noted in the Easley-Rooker Family History, Second Draft, page 40: "Andrew Hagerty was killed in action during the Civil War." The well written Easly-Rooker family history left a clue to Andrew's involvement in the Civil War but no specific records were listed in the sources.

Recently Ancestry.com released a new database - Pennsylvania, Civil War Muster Rolls, 1860-1869. This database includes copies of the original muster out rolls for Pennsylvania Soldiers. There is an Andrew J. Haggerty referenced under deaths on line 12 a member of the Infantry, 148th Regiment, Company I. The Muster Roll records Andrew's birth date as approximately 1844.

The Muster Roll records several dates for Andrew J. Haggerty:

• August 15, 1862 - Enlistment date recorded in Brookville, Jefferson County, Pennsylvania.  
• September 7, 1862  - Muster date recorded in Harrisburg, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.
• July 2, 1863 - Died in Action at the Battle of Gettysburg.

Except from Pennsylvania, Civil War Muster Rolls, 1860-1869 
Infantry, 148th Pennsylvania, Company I

Except of the Muster Roll recording Andrew's death on line 12.
Transcription: 12 Killed July 2, 1863 at Battle of Gettysburg 

Except from Pennsylvania, Civil War Muster Rolls, 1860-1869 

Infantry, 148th Pennsylvania, Company I

After reviewing the details it is plausible that the Andrew Haggerty and Andrew J. Haggerty are the same man. There are some theories to explain the differences in birth date. Andrew was recorded as the oldest son in the family in the 1850 United States Federal Census. His age recorded in the census would put his birth date around 1839. The information given to the census taker would have been first hand - likely by one of his parents who would have known his age. 

Additionally the birth date of  next child born to Robert and Recbecca is known. Thomas C. Haggerty's death certificate indicates he was born February 11, 1841.  If Thomas was born full term Andrew's birth at a minimum would need to be before May of 1840. 

It is not exactly known who provided the information recorded in the Muster Roll. In the 1860's people were not as diligent with recording birth details. Andrew could have guessed his birth year as 1844 making him 18 or purposefully provided 1844 so they would not realize he was actually 23. By 1862 several members of the Farmington community were already serving in the Union Army. Another scenario is that if the date on the muster roll could have been entered wrong or muster roll was recopied and the date was recorded incorrectly or estimated. 

The Muster Roll indicates that Andrew enlisted in Brookville, Jefferson County, Pennsylvania. Brookville was approximately 28 miles from Farmington. Given that other members of the Farmington community lived close to the same area their whole life - it is plausible Andrew was living in the general area or traveled with other men to enlist. The muster roll indicates many men enlisted in Brookeville. 

Given the location of muster, the death details and the stories passed down through the family it seems plausible that the Andew J. Haggerty referenced in the muster roll is Andrew Haggerty son of Robert H. Haggerty and Rebecca M. Easly. Andrew would  have been 24 when he died at the Battle of Gettysburg. 

Andrew J. Haggerty is my 4th great uncle. Robert H. Haggerty and Rebecca M. Easly are my 4th great grandparents. Their daughter Anna Haggerty married Michael McDonald. 

References:

1. A. J. Davis, History of Clarion County, Pennsylvania with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches of Some of Its Prominent Men and Pioneers (Clarion County Historical Society, 1887), Clarion County Historical Society, Chapter 35 History of Farmington Township. Chapter LIII History of Farmington Township. Page 515
2. 1850 United States Federal Census.Year: 1850; Census Place: Farmington, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M432_767; Page: 194B; Image: 394. Record for Robert Hagerty
3. 1860 United States Federal Census.Year: 1860; Census Place: Farmington, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M653_1095; Page: 145; Image: 149; Family History Library Film: 805095.Record for Robert Hagerty 
4. J. F. Easley, Easley-Rooker Family History, Second Draft (, June 1987), Page 40
5. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Civil War Muster Rolls, 1860-1869 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2015. Infantry, 148th Pennsylvania, Company I
6. Pennsylvania, Death Certificates, 1906-1963, Ancestry.com, Haggerty, Thomas C.
7. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Death Certificates, 1906-1924 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2014. Record for Thomas C. Haggerty.

Raymond C. Loll - B29 Bomber Pilot

Raymond C. Loll the son of Francis G. Loll and Elizabeth Hartle was born 1922 in Pennsylvania. On February 20, 1943, at age 21, Raymond enlisted with the Air Corps in Miami Beach, Florida.

Raymond was trained as a B-29 pilot and assigned to the 43rd Bomber Squadron and the 29th Bomber Group designated 'Very Heavy'. The main base for the 29th Bomber group between January 17, 1945 and May 20, 1946 was North Field in Guam. [Reference 1]

Raymond was a member of the The Fritschel Crew.  Records indicate the crews aircraft arrived in Guam February of 1945. The aircraft had a tail number 43-65312. The number on the plane was 0-33. The original name of the plan was Ingrid. The plane was also known as Battlin Boomerang. The city name recorded on the plane was "City of Sweetwater". [Reference 2]

On April 14, 1945 the plane was lost and the crew perished on a Mission to Tokyo.  The members of the air crew present:

• Robert L. Fritschel, Airplane Commander, 1st Lieutenant
• Raymond C. Loll, Pilot, 2nd Lieutenant
• Seymour H. Feigleman, Radar, 2nd Lieutenant
• James N. Wilkerson, Jr., Bombardier, Cpt
• Franklyn C. Wallace, Navigator, 2nd Lieutenant
• John Volpe, Flight Engineer, Sergeant
• Archie L. Smith, Jr, Radio Operator, 
• Marshall B. Wade, Top Gunner, Sergeant
• James R. Snyder, Right Blister, Sergeant
• Wiley S. Munsey, Jr., Tail Gunner, Sergeant

After the plane was lost only two members of the crew were recovered Robert L. Fritschel and Marshall B Wade. Both are buried at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific also known as the Punchbowl.

A photo of The Fritschel Crew can be viewed at the Prairie Bombers website maintained by the B-29 Museum, Inc. Raymond C. Loll is shown in the back row, second to the left.

The remainder of the crew including Raymond were recorded as Missing in Action or Buried at Sea. Raymond was 23 years old at the time of his death. He was awarded a Purple Heart and an Air Medal for his service. He is also honored in the Tablets of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Memorial Wall, Honolulu, HI 

Raymond C. Loll is my 3rd cousin 2x removed. The common ancestors that link us together are the French immigrants Antoine Loll and Mary Ann (Tehl) (Kehl), my 4th great grandparents.

References:

1. Rickard, J (19 March 2013), 29th Bombardment Group, http://www.historyofwar.org/air/units/USAAF/29th_Bombardment_Group.html
2. 29th Bomber Group - http://www.29bg.com/planeinfo.cfm?pid=10
3. B-29 Museum, Inc. - http://prairiebombers.org/eng/Army-Air-Fields/Kansas-AAF/Pratt/29th-BG/43rd-SQ-Original-Crews/Fritschel-Crew 
4. Ancestry.com. Honolulu, Hawaii, National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl), 1941-2011 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2011.
5. Ancestry.com. WWI, WWII, and Korean War Casualty Listings [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2005.
6. National Archives and Records Administration. World War II and Korean Conflict Veterans Interred Overseas [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2000.

William Loraine McDonald

William Loraine McDonald, son of Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker, photographed in the early 1940's. He is standing in front of the McDonald family home located at 422 E 19th St in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Note young William is wearing an Army jacket that may have belonged to a family friend. The three stripes on the jacket indicate the jacket belonged to an Army sergeant.

William Loraine McDonald

The photo was found in the Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

William Loraine McDonald is my great uncle. He is the brother of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. 

1930's - Helen and Edward V.

Helen Tillie Bukowski photographed with her son Edward V. Murosky in the 1930's.  The photographs were likely taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania where the family lived. The photograph may have been taken late spring or summer.

Edward V. is dressed in a shirt with a tie. He appears to be holding a rosary and a prayer book. The photograph may have been taken the day of his confirmation.

Edward V. and Helen

From the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. These photographs were located in a small album. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother.  Edward V. Murosky is my great uncle. Helen's son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather.

Four Generations of Maternal Ancestors - McDonald < Selker < Guth < Loll

On this Mother's Day a tribute to my Grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald and the three generations of women who came before her.

Mary Eugenia McDonald, the daughter of Frances Philomena Selker and Loraine Anthony McDonald, was born January 22, 1922 in Strattanville, Clarion, Pennsylvania.  She married Arthur Murosky August 9, 1941 in Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania at St John's Church. The couple raised ten children together. 

Frances Philomena Selker, the daughter of Frances Philomena Guth and Joseph William Selker, was born August 25, 1895 in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania. She married Loraine Anthony McDonald June 10, 1919 in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church. The couple raised nine children together. 

Frances Philomena Guth, the daughter of Theresa Loll and Leopold Guth, was born February 25, 1863 in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania. She married Joseph William Selker November 4, 1890 in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church. The couple raised ten children together.

Theresa Loll, the daughter of Mary Ann Jehl and Antonie Loll, was born June 16, 1803 in Marcholsheim, Alsace, France. She married Leopold Guth  January 20, 1853 in Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church. The couple raised eleven children together.

These photographs were included in the Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Mary Eugenia McDonald my paternal grandmother. Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. Frances Philomena Guth is my 2nd great grandmother. Theresa Loll is my 3rd great grandmother. 

Remembering the end of World War II

This is your victory! It is the victory of the cause of freedom in every land. — Winston Churchill 

Today marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. The following family members were part of the Greatest Generation and served in World War II. May we never forget their service.

Daniel L. Bukowski, my 1st cousin 2x removed, was born September 19, 1921. He served as a Sargent in the Army from October 24, 1942 through December 17, 1945. He was recognized in World War II Young American Patriots, 1941-1945 for his service. He was awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal. Daniel was featured in the blog post Army Sergeant Daniel L. Bukowski - Young American Patriot.

Daniel L. Bukowski

Joseph R. Bukowski, my great grand uncle, was born July 4, 1906 in Erie, Pennsylvania.  He served as a Private im the Army between June 15, 1943 and June 24, 1944.

Edward Zelazny (left) and Joseph Bukowski (right)

Raymond H. Bukowski, my 1st cousin 2x removed, was born February 28, 1920 in Erie, Pennsylvania   He served in the US Navy.

Raymond H. Bukowski

Norbert Bukowski, my 1st cousin 2x removed, was born July 13, 1920 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He served in the United States Coast Guard from June 17, 1942 through November 7, 1945.

Norbert Bukowski with his daughter Judy

John E. Chanis, Jr., my 1st cousin 2x removed, was born February 12, 1916 in Forest City, Pennsylvania He served in WWII - PFC between July 27, 1944 and September 1945.

Raymond Loll, my 2nd cousin 3x removed, was born in 1922 the son of Francis G. Loll, my 2nd cousin 3x removed, and Elizabeth Hartle. Raymond served in World War II and died in action in 1945 at the age of 23.

Barbara Lynam, my 2nd cousin 3x removed, was born June 24, 1912 in Oil City, Pennsylvania. She served in the PFC WAC WWII.

Barbara Lynam

Robert Aloysius Haggerty, my 2nd cousin 3x removed, was born July 24, 1927. He served as a SSGT in the US Marine Corps in WWII. 

Ambrose Aloysius McDonald, Jr., my 1st cousin 3x removed, was born 02 Oct 1919 in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Ambrose Aloysius McDonald, my 2nd great grand uncle and Gertrude Anna O'Neill, my 2nd great grand aunt. Ambrose Aloysius was also the brother of Virginia McDonald Geary and is a double cousin to me as we are related by the McDonald and O'Neill lines. Ambrose volunteered for military service and joined the Marine Corps. He was killed by enemy fire in Tarawa in November of 1943, at age 24, upon landing on the beach. He earned a Purple Heart for his service. He now has a memorial in Arlington National Cemetery,  thanks to his sister Virginia McDonald Geary. Ambrose is featured in the blog post A Letter from Tarawa.

Ambrose Aloysius McDonald, Jr.

The gravemarker for Ambrose in Arlington National Cemetery

Edward V. Murosky, my grand uncle, was born 03 Mar 1925 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Anthony Harry Murosky Jr., my great grandfather and Helen Tillie Bukowski, my great grand mother. Edward was stationed along the Alaskan Highway in WWII. Edward died on 11 Dec 1996, at age 71, in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Edward V. Murosky

 Harry A. Murosky, my grand uncle, was born 21 Mar 1921 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Anthony Harry Murosky Jr., my great grandfather and Helen Tillie Bukowski, my great grand mother. Harry died on 29 Mar 2002, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Harry A. Murosky

William Murosky, my great grand uncle, was born July 11, 1902 in Forest City, Pennsylvania. He served in the Army, WWII Air Corps from August 12, 1942 through January 1943. 

Benjamin Ragan Norris, the husband of my 2nd cousin 3x removed, was born December 30, 1916. He served as a waist gunner on a B17. Four days after his wedding to Barbara Lynam he was shipped abroad. His plane the War Eagle crash landed on May 28, 1944 90 miles east of Treves, Germany after engine trouble. All of the crew were taken prisoners by the Germans. except for Benjamin and the other waist gunner Daniel Dunbar. They walked 300 miles to Allied France. They were picked up by the French Resistance and fought with them until the area was liberated by the US 4th armored division. At that point Benjamin was sent back to the United States were he served an instructor for future recruits.

Benjamin Ragan Norris

Philip Franz Selker, my 1st cousin 3x removed, was born 25 Apr 1907 in Montabaur, Westerwald,  Germany. He was the son of Karl Friedrich Selker, my 2nd great grand uncle. His mother has been listed as Margarita Wolf, but on a personal visit to him in 2001 he indicated that Margarita Wolf was not his mother and that his father had re-married after her death. Philip arrived in the United States in 1929, he came to avoid the growing military establishment in Germany. During World War II, Philip served in the Infantry in the United States Army.  He landed at Omaha Beach on the second day of the invasion of Europe.  He saw Action in France, Belgium, and Germany.  He was injured during the Bulge. He later participated in the war in the Pacific. Philip is featured in the blog post Philip Selker - Battle of Normandy Veteran

Robert V. Pietrzak, my first cousin 2x removed, was born October 25, 1925 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He served in the United States Navy.

Robert V. Pietrzak, Leona Pietrzak and Stanley Pietrzak

Edward W. Zelazny, my first cousin 2x removed, was born September 11, 1915 in Erie, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Joseph Stanislaus Zelazny and Catherine M. Bukowski. He served as a Navy Corpsman from 1944 to 1945. He served as a medic in the Philippines.

Edward W. Zelazny

There are numerous photos of World War II veterans featured in the Military Collection  at the family photo website. This digital gallery features 45 photographs of family members who served in the military. The photographs range from portraits with family members to photos taken where the men were stationed and sent home to loved ones. Many of the photos are from the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection.