1951 - Bridge Construction Photographs

These two photographs of a bridge under construction were included in the photography collections from my family. The were mixed in with photographs from Erie County, Pennsylvania and Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

The men in the photograph and the location of the bridge are currently unknown. The photographs were taken in late May and early June 1951. The only hint at the location is the caption on the back of the one photograph which indicates "Jim & fellows on bridge at Lovells".

The back of the photograph reads: "May 31, 1951”

The back of the photograph reads: "Jim & fellows on bridge at Lovells'. Early June, 1951".

Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

December 28, 2015 This blog post has been updated. The names of the children have been determined and their ages have been used to identify the dates of the photographs. The blog post has also been updated to show the photographs in chronological order. The first grouping of photographs is estimated to have been taken in 1953. The second grouping of photographs is estimated to have been taken in 1957. 

The Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection contained vintage Christmas photographs that appear to have been taken at different holidays. Some of the photographs may have been taken in the late 1940's.

The photographs were most likely taken at the home of Helen Tillie Bukowski which was located at 729 East 24th Street in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The photographs were taken in the same location as the piano and carpet are common elements.  The first grouping of the photographs feature wall paper in the parlor. The second grouping of photographs feature painted walls in the parlor.

1951 Vintage Christmas Photograph - The Murosky Family

This photograph of Marian Elaine Murosky was taken December 25, 1951. The back of the photograph has a hand written label that reads "Marian Dec 25 1951". The photograph was most likely labeled by her mother Helen.She would have been 16 years old in this photograph.  

Marian Elaine Murosky

1953 Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

The first grouping of photographs feature Helen Tillie Bukowski with her grandchildren. Helen's daughter Rita Ann Murosky is also featured. The parlor in these photographs has floral wall paper. This grouping of photographs is estimated to have been taken in 1953 based on the ages of the grandchildren. 

Helen Tillie Bukowski with her grandson - Ronald Murosky, son of Edward V. Murosky and Margaret Forgash. Helen's husband, Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr., is the man in the framed photograph on the far left side of the piano.

Helen Tillie Bukowski with her two children. The boys are Ronald Murosky, son of Edward V. Murosky and Margaret Forgash (center) and Kenneth Niemi, son of Rita Ann Murosky and Walter E. Niemi (right).

Helen Tillie Bukowski watches Kennth Niemi, her grandson, open a gift with assistance of his mother Rita Ann Murosky. The woman her back to the camera is currently unknown.

Helen Tillie Bukowski stands adjacent to an ironing board. Her grandson, Kenneth Niemi, plays below the Christmas tree on the left side of the frame. Ronald Murosky is on the right side of the frame wearing a cowboy hat. Helen's daughter Rita Ann Murosky is standing on the right side of the photograph.

1957 Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

The second grouping of photographs feature Helen Tillie Bukowski with her daughter Marian Elaine Murosky. This grouping of photographs appears to have been taken in 1957 based on the age of the baby in the photograph. 

Marian Elaine Murosky holding her daughter Janet.

Helen Tillie Bukowski with her daughter Marian Elaine Murosky.

Helen Tillie Bukowski carries a poinsettia. 
Note the rotary phone in the photograph.

Helen Tillie Bukowski
Note the old radio behind Helen.

The photographs were part of the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen was married to Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky are their daughters. Rita Ann Murosky married Walter E. Niemi - their son Kenneth Niemi is included in several of these photographs. Anthony and Helen's son Edward V. Murosky married Margaret Forgash. Their son Ronald is shown in several of the photographs. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother. Her son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky are my great aunts. 

The Mystery of Pvt John McDonald - Civil War Solider

While preparing submissions for The Families of Clarion County, Pennsylvania to be published by the Clarion County Historical Society I solved one of the many mysteries in my family tree - the final fate of Pvt. John McDonald - Civil War Solider. For many years I knew John had served in the Civil War - I just had not come to a conclusion on what happened to him as there was no record of him following the war. While researching Civil War Muster Rolls I connected with Joe Nihen. Joe has been researching members of the 208th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Company H. He was also searching for a John McDonald but after discussion we concluded  we were not searching for the same John McDonald. Despite all of that Joe helped to locate some documents on the John McDonald I was looking for - my 4th great uncle. Special thanks to Joe for his willingness to assist me - it is most appreciated. 

John McDonald, son of Irish immigrants David McDonald and Bridget Dunn, was born 1836 in Farmington Township. The History of Clarion County Pennsylvania records David McDonald in the list of early settlers of Farmington Township.

The 1850 United States Federal Census recorded John living with his parents and seven siblings in Farmington Township. His father David was recorded as a farmer. The birth location of his parents and older brother James was recorded as Ireland. The local school teacher, John Toomy, was also recorded living in the household.

The 1860 United States Federal Census recorded John living with his parents and seven siblings in Farmington Township. His father David was recorded as a farmer.

John was recorded in the June 1863 Civil War Draft registration records for Farmington Township. A copy of the draft registration record shows John on line 13 and his brother Michael on line 12.

Civil War Draft Registration RecordsPennsylvania, 20th, Vol 2 of 2

The History of Clarion County Pennsylvania indicates John enlisted in the Union Army. He initially served with Company F, 63rd regiment. He was later transferred to Company H, One Hundred and Fifth Regiment on February 25, 1864.

Details of the Company H, 105th Regiment, Pennsylvania indicate that the company participated in the several battles after John mustered into the regiment. John's specific involvement in these battles is unknown.

• Fought on May 4-8, 1864 at the battle of The Wilderness in Spotsylvania  County and Orange County, VA. 
• Fought on 10 May 10, 12, 15, 19, 23 and 24 1864 at the battle of Spotsylvania Court House in Spotsylvania County, VA. 
• Fought on May 23 and 24 1864 at the battle of North Anna in Caroline County and Hanover County, VA. 
• Fought on 31 May 31, 1864 the Battle of Cold Harbor in Hanover County, VA. 
• Fought on June 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 1864 at the Battle of Petersburg in, Petersburg, VA. 
• Fought on August 6, 12, 15, and 16, 1864 at The Second  Deep Bottom Battle at  Henrico County, VA. 
• Fought on August 18 and 21, 1864 at Petersburg, VA. 
• Fought on September 4, 1864. 
• Fought on September 9, 10 and 16, 1864 at Petersburg, VA. 
• Fought on September 19, 1864.

The Pennsylvania State Archives Civil War Veteran's Card File, 1861-1866 indicates that John McDonald was filed as John McDonnell.

Pennsylvania State Archives
John McDonald - 68th Regiment, Infantry

Pennsylvania State Archives
John McDonnell - Company H, 105th Regiment, Infantry

Notes in John's file indicated was hospitalized from wounds that he received. He died on October 16, 1864 from chronic diarrhea. He is recorded in the Registers of Deaths of Volunteers. He is recorded on the third line from the bottom.

Registers of Deaths of Volunteers

He is buried in Beverly National Cemetery in Beverly, Burlington County, New Jersey. His grave marker references Company H, 105 PA. Inf. To view a copy of his grave marker visit this link.

John left a few mysteries which remain unsolved. The Last Will and Testament for John’s father David McDonald was recorded February 16, 1871. The will includes references that John was deceased and had a son named William: “the sum of one dollar to my grandson William McDonald son of John McDonald now deceased.” To date no additional details are known about William.

John McDonald is my 4th great uncle. He is the son of David McDonald and Bridget Dunn my 4th great grandparents. My paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald is a descendant of David McDonald and Bridget Dunn through their son Michael McDonald. 

References:

1. 1850 United States Federal Census. Source Citation: Year: 1850; Census Place: Farmington, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M432_767; Page: 193B; Image: 392. Record for David McDonald. Line 42. 
2. 1850 United States Federal Census. Source Citation: Year: 1850; Census Place: Farmington, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M432_767; Page: 193B; Image: 392. Record for Bridget McDonald. Lines 1-10. 
3. 1860 United States Federal Census. Source Citation: Year: 1860; Census Place: Farmington, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M653_1095; Page: 144; Image: 148; Family History Library Film: 805095. Record for David McDonald. Lines 10-19. 
4. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA); Consolidated Lists of Civil War Draft Registration Records (Provost Marshal General's Bureau; Consolidated Enrollment Lists, 1863-1865); Record Group: 110, Records of the Provost Marshal General's Bureau (Civil War); Collection Name: Consolidated Enrollment Lists, 1863-1865 (Civil War Union Draft Records); ARC Identifier: 4213514; Archive Volume Number: 2 of 2. Record for John McDonald, 20th Congressional District. 
5. 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 XIX Company F, 63rd Regiment Page 207 Chapter LIII History of Farmington Township Page 515 
6. Pennsylvania State Archives. Civil War Veterans' Card File, 1861-1866 Indexes. McDonald, John, F – 63 I, 2-511 
7. Pennsylvania State Archives. Civil War Veterans' Card File, 1861-1866 Indexes. McDonnell, John – H-105 I, Muster Roll  
8. Ancestry.com. U.S., Registers of Deaths of Volunteers, 1861-1865 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2012. Original data: Registers of Deaths of Volunteers, compiled 1861–1865. ARC ID: 656639. Records of the Adjutant General's Office, 1780's–1917. Record Group 94. National Archives at Washington, D.C. Record for Jno McDonald. 
9. Find A Grave. Pvt John McDonald. Find A Grave Memorial# 27625754.

Family Tree Maker is being Retired - Now What?

On Tuesday, December 8 Ancestry.com announced the retirement of Family Tree Maker 2014. Family Tree Maker is a desktop software platform used by many family researchers and genealogists to document their family history. One of the features that made Family Tree Maker unique was the ability sync research between desktop trees (trees located on a computer) and the Ancestry online trees. The sync process allowed data and media items like photographs or copies of historical records to be transferred back and forth.

Ancestry.com indicated in the retirement message that they would continue to support Family Tree Maker with full functionality through January 1, 2017.  There will be no ability sync after January 1, 2017.

My initial reaction after reading the announcement was that that I felt sick to my stomach. So many questions immediately came to my mind....... What happens now? What do I do? How difficult is it going to be to transfer 15 years of research to another software package? How much time is this going to take? What if my research file gets messed up? What will this do for future sharing and collaboration? How will this impact my workflow moving forward?

There are many different workflow models that researchers use. There is no right or wrong workflow - each researcher has to select a workflow that works best for them. My workflow is best illustrated through the graphic below: 

My family tree research is made up of three primary data sources:

• Historical Records - Historical records make up the bulk of my research. Historical records include items like Census Records, Ships Manifests, Passport Applications, Birth Records, Marriage Records, Death Certificates, Cemetery Records, Military Records, Will & Probable Records, Maps, Historical Book references, etc. Historical records come many sources. In addition to using the numerous data bases at Ancestry.com I also utilize other genealogy sites like FamilySearch, Find a Grave and other archival websites like Pennsylvania State Archives.
• Family Stories & Details - These are stories and details family members have shared with me other the years. These include memories and other personal recollections that have been incorporated into my research. 
• Photographs & Items from Family Collections - One of the projects I have been working on is to digitize the old collection of family photographs in my care. As these photographs are processed in conjunction with the Portraits of a Life Project the photographs have been linked to individuals and events in my research file. Other items that have been added include newspaper clippings, diplomas, wedding invitations and other items my ancestors saved.

My workflow model is more on the traditional side, My main research file is saved on my computer. I use Family Tree Maker software to access and edit my family tree.  As I evaluate historical records I manually enter the historical record, cite the source and link the record to individuals and events. In some cases copies of original historical records exist. In these cases I download a copy of the record and save it into my filing system. After renaming the record I attached the record as a piece of "media" to the citation. In a similar manner photographs and other items from the family collections are uploaded as "media" items that are linked to individuals.

If your interested in learning more about how I used Family Tree Maker see this link for screen shots of the detailed individual screen, media screens and sources screens.

Although Family Tree Maker offered the ability to import records directly from Ancestry.com databases - I opted not to use that feature. 

After completing a batch of updates on my desktop tree I would sync to my Ancestry online tree. The Sync feature allowed me to update my Ancestry online tree - allowing that tree to be a living document that would grow with the addition of new ancestors, historical documents and photographs. The ability to update and share data fostered collaboration for many researchers.

The use of Sync also allowed researchers to share photographs and media housed in their private collections. The modern world is allowing researchers like myself to digitize private collections that were previously unknown to other researchers. For example, the photograph below is Leopold Guth, my 3rd great grandfather. There are currently seven generations of descendants of Leopold Guth. Sync allowed me to easily share priceless photographs like this one with other researchers so they could learn more about our shared ancestors.

The data found in the private collections doesn't exist in data bases  I do find it curious that in this data driven world Ancestry.com would make it harder for researchers to share the data housed in their extensive private collections. To date many of my media items including photographs have been shared by other researchers.

Leopold Guth, my 3rd Great Grandfather

In addition to family research I have also DNA tested several individuals in my family utilizing the AncestryDNA product. The AncestryDNA module allows researchers to link the test individual to an Ancestry online tree. The benefit of linking DNA matches to a tree is helps genetic cousins better understand how they relate to one another. The DNA Circles feature in the AncestryDNA module uses the content in Ancestry Online trees to inform genetic cousins of a possible shared ancestor with our genetic cousins.

My research includes both ancestral and descendant research. The use of Sync allowed my Ancestry online tree to be updated.  My expanded tree has also assisted other researchers who are using DNA to learn more about their family. There are several cases where adopted individuals have reached out to me because my expanded research has helped them better understand their own lineage. 

This all leaves me wondering - how will this impact collaboration? Collaboration and sharing is what made the Ancestry platform so unique. In the current model there is no way to update an existing online tree. Once Ancestry.com stops supporting Sync on January 1, 2017 there will be no easy way for a researcher similar to myself to update our trees. How will this impact collaboration and features like DNA Circles?

As it stands today researchers like myself have some decisions to make. After a few days thinking, reading and interacting with other researchers at the Ancestry forums there look to be two options for moving forward -

Option 1 - Transition to an Ancestry Online Tree

Researchers that would pursue this option would shift from desktop software to utilizing Ancestry's online tree format. Work would be done through the internet based interface.

Considerations of this option:

• Online access would be required for a researcher to access and work on their tree. 
• Moving forward (based on what we know today) there would be no easy way to download all of your research with media files to your computer. 
• If a researcher is using a public tree - their "work in progress" would be visible to other researchers.
• The online trees in the current format are not capable of producing reports and charts that desktop software packages can. 
• Researchers are dependent on Ancestry.com  

Option 2 - Transition to a new Desktop Software Package

Researchers that pursue this option would make the shift from Family Tree Maker to another one of the desktop software platforms.

Considerations of this option:

• The Researcher would have to determine their workflow when evaluating desktop software options.
• Time will be needed for data review and checking after making the transition.
• With what we know today collaboration with Ancestry.com online trees would be eliminated.  If the researcher wishes to maintain an Ancestry.com online tree they would need to do manually update their online tree. It may not be practical for researchers to do the work "twice". 
• There may be opportunities for online collaboration with other desktop software packages.
• The ability to work offline.
• The researcher is not dependent on Ancestry.com to house their data. 

Where does this leave me? 

The discontinuation of Family Tree Maker has made me reevaluate research plans I had for 2016. Transitioning to an online tree is not a work flow I am interested in shifting to. As stated earlier in this post I prefer to work, research and ponder before making my research public.  Additionally, I often run reports and generate charts when collaborating with other researchers. I also prefer working from the computer when working on my tree. 

Before making any decisions about which desktop software package to shift to I am going to wait for the dust to settle. Perhaps Ancestry.com will be willing to sell Family Tree Maker to another company or they will re-think their decision to discontinue to Family Tree Maker. If they do not then I will start the process of evaluating what software package to shift to. 

If this decision does become permanent - the biggest question I keep coming back to is - how will this impact future collaboration? 

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