2018 Family History Highlights

Happy New Year!

As was head into 2019 – I wanted to pause and highlight some of my favorite family history experiences from my family history journey over the last year.

MB Boutiques Family History Consulting Services

Last fall I had the opportunity to provide family history consulting services for an adopted individual. Using DNA results, the individual's non-identifying adoption paperwork and traditional research methods I identified the individual’s birth parents. It was a very rewarding experience to help someone learn more about their family history. I really enjoyed working on this project and currently have openings to take on new family history research, genetic genealogy and adoption clients in 2019.

Vising Florida for Christmas

In December my husband and I stayed in New Smyrna, Beach Florida for a few weeks before heading to Davenport, Florida to spend Christmas with my father. Families are often spread far and wide in our modern world - so it was really nice to spend time with family members we don't get to see very often.

New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Photo Credit: Bob Davis, MB Boutiques

It was a lovely vacation – the ocean is one of my favorite places to visit. If you would like to view the other amazing photographs my husband took in New Smyrna Beach you can visit the MB Boutiques New Smyrna Beach photo gallery.

While in Florida, we also had the opportunity to visit with my Great Aunt Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald Davies and Great Uncle William Loraine McDonald - the siblings of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. We had a wonderful visit and took several photographs to highlight the occasion!

McDonald Siblings William Loraine McDonald & Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald Davies
Photo Credit: Bob Davis, MB Boutiques

McDonald Siblings William Loraine McDonald & Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald Davies 
photographed with their nephew David Anthony Murosky
Photo Credit: Bob Davis, MB Boutiques

McDonald Siblings William Loraine McDonald & Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald Davies 
photographed with their great niece Michelle Marie Murosky
Photo Credit: Bob Davis, MB Boutiques

Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald Davies photographed with her great niece Michelle Marie Murosky 
and her daughter Kerri Davies 
Photo Credit: Bob Davis, MB Boutiques

Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald Davies photographed with her daughter Kerri Davies 
Photo Credit: Bob Davis, MB Boutiques

Research highlights from 2018: 

There were twenty five articles posted at the research site last year. Many of these articles were wedding announcements located for members of the Selker family. There were also old family photographs shared and other research articles.

Guth Research Update: Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch Family 

The third post in the Guth Research Update Series was shared last year. The series is focused on the ancestors of two German born brothers – Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth who settled in Clarion County, Pennsylvania in the mid 1800's. Over a two year period the family was extensively researched with the assistance of Ute Brandenburg the owner of German Script Experts. I am thrilled to finally share the validation of the original research completed by Jr. Janet Staab many years ago. The Guth Research Update Series will also feature previously unknown Guth family members.

Wedding Announcement: Joseph William Selker & Frances Philomena Guth 

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, November 6, 1890 - Page 5:

The Clarion Democrat
Thursday, November 6, 1890 - Page 5

Wedding Photos: Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman 

A cousin graciously shared a photograph from the wedding of Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman. This photograph helped to identify a previously an unknown wedding snapshot that was also from the wedding of Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman.

1933 - Wedding of  Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman
Left to Right: Ambrose John Selker (Best Man, Brother of the Groom), Naomi Herman (Maid of Honor, Sister of the Bride), Frederick William Selker (Groom) and Eleanor E. Herman (Bride).

1945 - McDonald Family Gathering

The photographs from a McDonald family gathering in 1945 are some of my favorites. The photographs feature three generations of the McDonald family.

1945 - The McDonald Family
(Left to Right): Kathryn Joan McDonald, Mary Eugenia McDonald holding her son James Arthur Murosky, Barbara Jean Murosky, Charles Eugene McDonald, Eleanor Lucille McDonald holding Mary Helen Murosky.

Wedding Snapshots: Arthur Murosky & Mary Eugenia McDonald

My grandparents Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald were married on August 9, 1941. In addition to the formal portraits taken to commemorate the event - family members took snapshots the day of the wedding. The grouping of snapshots includes individuals from both sides of the family.

Flower Girls Marian Elaine Murosky and Dorothy Elizabeth McDonald

Wedding Portrait: Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky

The formal wedding portrait of Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky was an unknown portrait for several years. The portrait was from the Frances Philomena Selker Collection and the original is 8x10 – so I suspected this portrait was most likely a family member of Frances Philomena Selker.

The Matron of Honor, Anna Gertrude Selker, was the first individual identified. Last summer the Best Man, Frederick William Selker, was also identified. Last fall the wedding announcement for Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky was located. From the wedding announcement: The bride was attended by her sister, Mrs. Ann Shannon of Brookville, and her brother, Frederick Selker, of Clarion, was Mr. Browsky's best man.

1932 - Wedding of Mary Selker & ernard Martin Browsky
Left to Right: Bernard Martin Browsky (Groom), Frederick William Selker (Best Man), Rev. A.A. Fisher, Anna Gertrude Selker (Matron of Honor). The Bride, Mary Selker, is seated.

Locating the wedding announcement solved the mystery of who the bride and groom were in the mystery wedding portrait and offered context to why Frances Philomena Selker had a copy of the portrait  – Mary Selker is her sister.

Unknown Photo Gallery - Additional Photographs Added 

The unknown Photo Gallery was updated with additional images. Each image has a caption that can be viewed in the individual page view. The caption will include any known details about the image. There are navigation arrows to the far left and right in the individual page view. When viewed from a computer - each image has a unique website address. That website address can be used to share a direct link to the image.

A sampling of photographs from the Unknown Collection:

Unknown Child
Cabinet Card

Unknown Girls
Photo may have been taken in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania

Unknown Girls Formal Portrait 
Weber Studios - Erie, PA

Unknown Couple
Label on Back: "This picture was taken in Meyersdale"

Unknown Girl

The family history research site has surpassed 125,000 page views! Thank you so much for Reading!

-Michelle

Wedding Announcement: Leopold George Selker & Katherine Veronica Hartle

Leopold George Selker, the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, married Katherine Veronica Hartle on 30 October 1917 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church.

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, November 1, 1917- Page 1:

The Clarion Democrat
Thursday, November 1, 1917 - Page 1

Hartle - Selker

Last Tuesday morning, October 30, 1917. the wedding bells of the Church of the Immaculate Conception of Clarion rang merrily for the celebration of nuptials of Miss Catherine Veronica Hartle and Mr. Leopold George Selker, two of Clarion's most highly esteemed young people. Rev. Fr. George Wemkler was the officiating Priest and Herman's Orchestra, with Jos Augustine Guth presiding at the organ, furnished the music. 

 The wedding party entered the church to the strains of the beautiful wedding march. The bride wore a rich and beautiful gown of ivory duchess satin with silver lace trimmings and wore a veil with cap effect caught with pearls, and carried Sweetheart roses showered with lilies of the valley.  Miss Frances Selker, sister of the groom, attended the bride. She wore a pink silk net over pink taffeta, trimmed with silver, with large black velvet picture hat faced with pink satin and trimmed with silver, and carried Ophelia roses. The groom was attended by Mr. George B. Hartle, brother of the bride.

The wedding breakfast was served at the home of the bride, the color scheme being pink and white, beautifully carried out in decoration and appointments. Following this Mr. and Mrs. Sleker left at 11:25 for Niagara Falls and a lake trip after which they will be at home to their friends at East Main Street.

The groom is a rising young business man of fine ability and splendid character, a son of Mrs. J.W. Selker, and is the head of the Selker Cigar Co. The bride is an accomplished and charming young lady and filled the important position of stenographer at the Berney-Bond glass plant for some time. 

Among the out of town guests were: Misses Emma and Lizzie Hartle, of Pittsburgh; Mrs. Ellen Ditz of DuBois.

A fine miscellaneous shower was given in honor of the bride by Mrs. Geo. A. Ditz on last Thursday evening. 

The cordial and hearty good wishes of all are given the bride and groom.

There are currently no photographs in the collection from the wedding of Leopold George Selker and Katherine Veronica Hartle.

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd Great Grandparents. Leopold George Selker is my 2nd Great Uncle. Frances Philomena Selker, the daughter of  Joseph William Selker, is my great grandmother. Frances Philomena Selker is the mother of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. 

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The Clarion Democrat (Clarion, Pennsylvania). Thu, Nov 1, 1917 · Page 1. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/321745893 Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018.

Wedding Announcement: Ambrose John Selker & Mary Elizabeth Meisinger

Ambrose John Selker, the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, married Mary Elizabeth Meisinger on 20 August 1935 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church.

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, August 22, 1935 - Page 5:

The Clarion Democrat
Thursday, August 22, 1935 - Page 5

Selker - Meisinger

A pretty wedding was solemnized Tuesday morning, August 20, 1935, at Immaculate Conception Church when Miss Mary Elizabeth Meisinger, daughter of Mrs. Paul E. Meisinger, became the bride of Ambrose John Selker, son of Mrs. J.W. Selker, the Reverend A. A. Fischer officiating. 

The bridal party entered the church to the strains of Lohengrin's Wedding March. The bride was attended by her sister, Miss Agnes Meisinger. The groom has for his best man his brother, Vincent G. Selker. The ushers were Francis X. Zacherl and Paul E. Trunk.

The bride's gown was of white lace and her tulle veil was banded with orange blossoms. She carried white lillies. Her bridesmade wore a creation of blue chiffon with lace tunic and smart turban of same material. She carried pink gladioli, tailsman roses and blue delphinium. 

The wedding breakfast was served at the Hotel Anderson. 

Later in the day the couple left for a Canadian motor trip to spend their honeymoon. They will reside at 13 Third Avenue when they return.

The bride is one of Clarion's finest young ladies and has won the admiration of all by her kindly and courteous life. Mt. Selker is one of sturdiest and most successful young business men. Our people wish them all the blessing of a happy life. 

There are currently no photographs in the collection from the wedding of Ambrose John Selker and Mary Elizabeth Meisinger.

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd Great Grandparents. Ambrose John Selker is my 2nd Great Uncle. Frances Philomena Selker, the daughter of  Joseph William Selker, is my great grandmother. Frances Philomena Selker is the mother of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. 

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The Clarion Democrat (Clarion, Pennsylvania). Thu, Aug 22, 1935 · Page 5. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/322356589 Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018.

Wedding Announcement: Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman

Frederick William Selker, the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, married Eleanor E. Herman on 19 June 1933 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church.

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, June 22, 1933 - Page 1:

The Clarion Democrat
Thursday, June 22, 1933 - Page 1

Herman - Selker

One of the prettiest weddings held in Clarion this month was that solemnized at the Church of the Immaculate Conception on Monday morning, June 19, at 7 o'clock, when Miss Jeanne Eleanor Herman and  Mr. Frederic William Selker, both of Clarion, were joined in holy wedlock. Rev. Fr. A. A. Fisher performing the ceremony and reciting a Holy Nuptial Mass.

The attendants of the couple were Mr. Ambrose Selker, brother of the groom, and Miss Naomi Herman, sister of the bride.

The bride, who is a daughter of Mt. and Mrs. Paul Herman, of Eight Avenue Clarion, was attired in white satin gown with white net veil and carried a shower bouquet of white roses and lillies of the valley. Her bridesmaid, Miss Naomi Herman, wore a gown of pink net with white hat and accessories and carried a bouquet of pink roses and blue delphiniums. 

A very enjoyable wedding breakfast was served to 24 guests at the Greenawalt Inn, after which the bride and groom started on an eastern trip and will be home after July first at 620 Wood Street.

Their many friends and well-wishers in Clarion extend congratulations and best wishes for their future. 


A photograph of the wedding party was shared by a cousin. View the post Wedding Photos: Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman to learn more about the wedding and view other photographs taken that day.

Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman Wedding Party

Ambrose John Selker (Best Man, Brother of the Groom), Naomi Herman (Maid of Honor, Sister of the Bride), 

Frederick William Selker (Groom) and Eleanor E. Herman (Bride).

From the Frederick William Selker Collection

The photograph is from the Frederick William Selker Collection. Photographs in this collection were originally owned by the sisters Naomi Herman and Eleanor E. Herman. Today these photographs are in the care of a descendant of Frederick William Selker and Eleanor E. Herman. The photograph is shared with permission. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

  Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd Great Grandparents. Frederick William Selker and Ambrose John Selker are my 2nd Great Uncles. Frederick and Ambrose are the brothersof Frances Philomena Selker my great grandmother. My paternal grandmother, Mary Eugenia McDonald, is the daughter of Frances Philomena Selker.

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The Clarion Democrat (Clarion, Pennsylvania). Thu, Nov 22, 1933 · Page 1. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/325158281 Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018.

Wedding Photos: Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky

Mary Selker, daughter of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, was born August 15, 1902 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. She married Bernard Martin Browsky on October 24, 1932. Bernard Martin Browsky was born February 23, 1897.  The wedding took place at the Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at 6:30 am. The officiant for the wedding was Rev. A. A. Fisher.

Mary Selker was attended by two of her siblings. Her sister Anna Gertrude Selker was the Matron of Honor. Anna Gertrude, the youngest daughter, was born August 11, 1907 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Anna married Francis Thomas Shannon on August 21, 1928.

Mary's brother Frederick William Selker served as best man. Frederick William Selker was born October 15, 1896 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. He married Eleanor E. Herman on June 19, 1933.

When photographed Mary Selker was 30 years old and Bernard Martin Browsky was 35 years old. Matron of Honor Anna Gertrude Selker was 25 years old and  Best Man Frederick William Selker was 36 years old.

To view the wedding announcement for the couple visit the post Wedding Announcement: Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky.

Wedding of Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky

Left to Right: Bernard Martin Browsky (Groom), Frederick William Selker (Best Man), 

Rev. A.A. Fisher, Anna Gertrude Selker (Matron of Honor). 

The Bride, Mary Selker, is seated.

Wedding Snapshot
Selker Siblings: Frederick William Selker and Anna Gertrude Selker
The back of the photograph is stamped "Carl and Don Clarion, PA"

These photographs were included in the Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Frances Philomena Guth appears to have passed the photographs down to her daughter Frances Philomena Selker. Frances' daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald ended up with her mother's photo collections which is time were handed down to me. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Frederick William Selker is my 2nd Great Uncle. Mary Selker and Anna Gertrude Selker are my 2nd Great Aunts. Frederick, Mary and Anna are the siblings of Frances Philomena Selker my great grandmother. My paternal grandmother, Mary Eugenia McDonald, is the daughter of Frances Philomena Selker.

Wedding Announcement: Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky

Mary Selker, the daughter of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, married Bernard Martin Browsky on 24 October 1932 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church.

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The News-Harold (Franklin, Pennsylvania) on Monday, October 24, 1932- Page 9:

The News-Harold
Monday, October 24, 1932 - Page 9

Matrimonial
Browsky-Selker

A wedding of interest in Oil City took place at 6:30 o'clock this morning in the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Clarion, where Miss Mary Selker, daughter of Mrs. Frances Selker, became the bride of Bernard Browsky, of this city, son of Mrs. Eva Browsky, of 414 Bissell avenue. 

Rev. A.A. Fisher, pastor of the church, celebrated the nuptial mass. The bride was attended by her sister, Mrs. Ann Shannon of Brookville, and her brother, Frederick Selker, of Clarion, was Mr. Browsky's best man. 

The bride's gown was fashioned of white satin, and her veil of net was trimmed with lace and a cap of pearls. She carried a bridal bouquet of Calla lilies.

Her matron of honor wore satin in a pastel blue shade, with a short velvet jacket in a darker shade of blue. Her turban and slippers were in a corresponding shade. 

A wedding breakfast was served at the Anderson Hotel in Clarion after the ceremony, with covers laid for 24 at the bride's table. The table decorations for the breakfast were pink roses and ferns and placements of small blue and white baskets filled with nuts and mints. 

Mr. and Mrs. Browsky left later in the day for a motor trip to eastern cities, and on their return will reside at 230 Hoffman avenue. 

The bride is a graduate of the Immaculate Conception High School in Clarion, class of 1918. Mr. Browsky is employed by the National Pump and Machine Company in this city.

The guests from Oil City who attended the party were: Mrs. Eva Browsky, Mr. and Mrs. J.G. Nasky, Mr. and Mrs. C.P. Seimbida, Mr. and Mrs. C.A. Staab, and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Browsky. Other out-of-town guests were Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lehman of Titusville, Mrs. Leonard Rabuse, of Brooklyn, N.Y., Mrs. Ann Shannon of Brookville; Mr. and Mrs. L.A. McDonald and family of Erie; Mr. and Mrs. Edward Selker of Arthursburg, N.Y.

The formal wedding portrait below was only partially identified. The Selker siblings Anna Gertrude Selker and Frederick William Selker were identified but the bride and groom remained unknown. The newspaper article for the wedding of Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky mentioned the attendants by name. The description of the wedding dress and flowers from the article also aligns with the formal portrait.

Wedding of Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky
Left to Right: Bernard Martin Browsky (Groom), Frederick William Selker (Best Man), 
Rev. A.A. Fisher, Anna Gertrude Selker (Matron of Honor). 
The Bride, Mary Selker, is seated.

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd Great Grandparents. Their daughter Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. Frances Philomena Selker is the mother of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. Frederick William Selker is my 2nd Great Uncle. Mary Selker and Anna Gertrude Selker are my 2nd Great Aunts. 

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The News-Herald (Franklin, Pennsylvania). Mon, Oct 24, 1932 · Page 9. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/81105496  Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018.. 

Joseph William Selker & Frances Philomena Guth Return from Bridal Tour

Joseph William Selker, the son of Hermann George Selker and Katherine Elizabeth Hofhaus, married Frances Philomena Guth, the daughter of Leopold Guth and Theresa Loll, on 4 November 1890 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church.

The Clarion Democrat noted when the couple returned from their bridal tour. The article was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, November 13, 1890 - Page 5:

The Clarion Democrat
Thursday, November 13, 1890 - Page 5

Mr. and Mrs. Selker returned from their brief bridal tour to this place on last Saturday, Mr. Selker being too much crowded with orders in his cigar factory to remain away longer. They immediately went to housekeeping in their handsomely furnished quarters corner of Main street and Third Avenue.
Mr. Selker is one of most reliable and promising young business men. Although he embarked in business here but eighteen months ago on a very small scale, by industry and good management, he now conducts one of the largest and most completely equipped cigar manufactories in this part of the State, occupying the entire building at the above named location, where he employes about a dozen hands.

Mr. Selker is a young man who is worthy the large degree of success with which he has met in his business, and likewise of the beautiful and accomplished bride he has lately captured.

Frances Philomena Guth & Joseph William Selker

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd Great Grandparents. Their daughter Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. Frances Philomena Selker is the mother of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. 

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The Clarion Democrat (Clarion, Pennsylvania). Thu, Nov 13, 1890 · Page 5. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/322344609 Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018.

Wedding Announcement: Joseph William Selker & Frances Philomena Guth

Joseph William Selker, the son of Hermann George Selker and Katherine Elizabeth Hofhaus, married Frances Philomena Guth, the daughter of Leopold Guth and Theresa Loll, on 4 November 1890 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church.

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, November 6, 1890 - Page 5:

The Clarion Democrat
Thursday, November 6, 1890 - Page 5

Selker - Guth

A very pleasant wedding was celebrated in the Catholic church at this place, Tuesday morning, Nov. 4 1890, at 8 o'clock, at which Mr. J.W. Selker, of this place, the well-known cigar manufacturer, and Miss Frances Guth, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leopold Guth, were made man and wife, according to the form of that church, during a high mass, Father Deckenbrock administering the sacrament. 

After the ceremony the happy couple were driven to the bride's home, where a number of friends were waiting, and who, after congratulations and a pleasant time socially for about an hour, along with the bride and groom, went to the Centennial Hotel to enjoy a bounteous wedding breakfast. The bridal party left on the 11:30 train for a wedding tour, taking with them best wishes of their friends. 

After their departure the guests went to Mr. and Mrs. Selker's new home, Corner Main Street and Third Ave., which they will occupy on their return, and spent a few hours tripping the "light fantastic." They received quite a number of handsome, useful and ornamental presents. Mr. and Mrs. Selker are two worthy young people, and we wish for them and greatest blessings spiritually and abundant  success temporally. 

What was "Tripping the light fantastic" in 1890? "Tripping the light fantastic" was to dance, dance nimbly or lightly, or to move in a pattern to musical accompaniment. - Jim Lasseter

Frances Philomena Guth & Joseph William Selker

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd Great Grandparents. Their daughter Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. Frances Philomena Selker is the mother of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. 

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The Clarion Democrat (Clarion, Pennsylvania). Thu, Nov 6, 1890 · Page 5. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/322344587 Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018.
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trip_the_light_fantastic
3. Lasseter, Jim. "trip the light fantastic". www.randomhouse.com. Random House, Inc. Retrieved March 20, 2001. 

Wedding Announcement: Loraine Anthony McDonald & Frances Philomena Selker

Loraine Anthony McDonald, the son of Robert Alphonsus McDonald and Winifred Agnes O'Neill, married Frances Philomena Selker, the daughter of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, on 10 June 1919 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania at the Immaculate Conception Church.

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, June 12, 1919 - Page 5:

The Clarion Democrat
Thursday, June 12, 1919 - Page 5

McDONALD - SELKER

Happy wedding bells pealed forth their chimes at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Clarion, Pa., last Tuesday morning, June 10, 1919 when at 8:30 a.m., Miss Frances Philomena Selker, daughter of Mrs. J.W. Selker, one of our most charming and popular young ladies, was joined in the bonds of holy wedlock with Loraine A. McDonald a son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. McDonald, of Clarion, one of our rising young men. The bride was attended by Miss Helen McDonald, a sister of the groom, and the groom's best man was Vincent Selker, a brother of the bride. Full nuptial High Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. George Winkler, who performed the marriage ceremony.

Following the marriage service the happy couple were driven to the bride's home where an elegant wedding breakfast was served to the immediate friends of the high contracting parties. It was a very happy and gay crowd that gave the bridge and groom a splendid "send-off" as they departed for the B. & O. train about noon. They will enjoy a short wedding trip after which they will be at home to their friends in Clarion.

The bride was the recipient of many handsome and useful presents.

A very extended circle of friends of these splendid young people unite with us in extending to them the most hearty congratulations and good wishes for their happiness and prosperity.

The couple celebrated their 35th Wedding Anniversary on 10 June 1954. Their children planned a celebration for the couple. To see photographs from the Anniversary celebration visit the post Loraine Anthony McDonald & Frances Philomena Selker - 35th Wedding Anniversary.

Loraine Anthony McDonald & Frances Philomena Selker

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

Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker are my great grandparents. They are the parents of my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. 

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The Clarion Democrat (Clarion, Pennsylvania). Thu, Jun 12, 1919 · Page 5. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/309937121 Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018.

Wedding Announcement: Edward C. Selker & Eva Theresa Margaret Zacherl

Edward C. Selker, the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, married Eva Theresa Margaret Zacherl, the daughter of Andrew Zacherl and Barbara Schultz, on 4 November 1913 at St. Joseph's Church in Lucinda, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

The wedding announcement for the couple was published in The Clarion Democrat on Thursday, November 6, 1913 - Page 5:

The Clarion Democrat 
Thursday, November 6, 1913 - Page 5

Transcription of the wedding announcement:

SELKER - ZACHERL

A very happy wedding was celebrated Wednesday morning, November 5, 1913 at St. Josephs Church, Lucinda, when during the celebration of nuptial high mass by Rev. Father Heibel, the nuptial knot was tied that united the lives of Miss Eva Zacherl, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew  Zacherl, of Arthurs, and Mr. Edward Selker, son of Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Selker, of Clarion, as husband and wife.

Miss Zacherl is a well known and very popular young lady who has hosts of friends not only in her home community but also in Clarion, where she has an extended acquaintance. Mr. Selker is one of Clarion's rising young men, gentlemanly, urbane, accommodating and quite popular. The wedding ceremony was followed by festivities and feasting at the home of the bridge and later at the home of the groom.

Mr. and Mrs. Selker will make their future home in Clarion.

Formal Portrait Edward C. Selker

Formal Portrait Eva Theresa Margaret Zacherl 

This portrait of Edward C. Sleker shared with permission. The original portrait is in the care of Leopold George Selker my 2nd cousin 1x. He is a descendant of Leopold George Selker, Sr. the oldest son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth. From the Leopold George Selker Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

This formal portrait of  Eva Theresa Margaret Zacherl is shared with permission. The original portrait is in the care of Pam Selker Rak, my 2nd cousin 2x. Edward C. Selker, Sr. is the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth. From the Edward C. Selker Sr. Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd great grandparents. Edward C. Selker, Sr. is my 2nd great uncle. His sister Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. 

 References:

1. Newspapers.com. The Clarion Democrat (Clarion, Pennsylvania). Thu, Nov 6, 1913 · Page 5. Image: https://www.newspapers.com/image/346255329 Downloaded on Sept 21, 2018  
2. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, County Marriage Records, 1845-1963 [database on-line]. Lehi, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2016. Record for Eva Zacherl.
3. Ancestry.com. U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2015. Record for Eva Margaret Selker.
4. Ancestry.com. U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2012. Memorial Number 84311662.

1930's - Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman

One of my favorite aspects of family history is connecting with cousins. A cousin I connected with earlier this year had this lovely snapshot in her care. She gave me permission to share the snapshot so that other Selker descendants may also enjoy the photograph. 

A snapshot of Frederick William Selker and Eleanor E. Herman most likely taken in the 1930's. The location of the photograph is unknown.

Frederick William Selker was born 15 October 1896 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth. Eleanor E. Herman was born 13 February 1910 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

Frederick William Selker & Eleanor E. Herman

The photograph is from the Frederick William Selker Collection. Photographs in this collection were originally owned by the sisters Naomi Herman and Eleanor E. Herman. Today these photographs are in the care of a descendant of Frederick William Selker and Eleanor E. Herman. The photograph is shared with permission. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd great grandparents. Frederick William Selker is my 2nd Great Uncles. His sister Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. Her daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald my paternal grandmother.

1940's - Ambrose John and Mary Lou Selker

This photograph was originally housed in the Unknown Photograph Collection. It was known that the photograph was taken in the backyard of the Selker home at 242 Main Street in Clarion. The J.W. Selker Cigar Factory is the building on the right side of the photograph.

The photograph was identified earlier this year by another Selker descendant. The man is Ambrose John Selker photographed with his daughter Mary Lou Selker. Ambrose John McDonald, the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, was born 6 June 1898 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

The photograph would have been taken in the late 1930's or early 1940's. The photograph was taken by Mary Elizabeth Meisinger the wife of Ambrose John Selker.

Ambrose John Selker photographed with his daughter Mary Lou Selker

The photograph is from Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Frances Philomena Guth appears to have passed the photographs down to her daughter Frances Philomena Selker. Frances' daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald ended up with her mother's photo collections which is time were handed down to me. Photographer Mary Elizabeth Meisinger. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Ambrose John Selker is my 2nd Great Uncle. May Lou Selker is mt 1st Cousin 2x Removed. Ambrose John Selker is the brother of Frances Philomena Selker  - my great grandmother. Frances Philomena Selker's daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald is my paternal grandmother

1937 - Selker Family Photo

This photograph was originally housed in the Unknown Photograph Collection. The woman was thought to be Frances Philomena Guth - wife of Joseph William Selker.

The photograph was recently identified by another Selker descendant. The woman was confirmed to be Frances Philomena Guth. She is photographed with her son Ambrose John Selker and her granddaughter Mary Lou Selker.

The photograph was taken summer of 1937. Frances Philomena Selker would have been 74 years old and Ambrose John Selker would have been 38 or 39 years old when the photograph was taken. The location is the back yard of the Selker family home located at 242 Main Street in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. The J.W. Selker Cigar factory is the building on the right side of the photograph.

The photograph was taken by Mary Elizabeth Meisinger the wife of Ambrose John Selker.

Selker Family Photograph
Ambrose John Selker holding his daughter Mary Lou Selker is standing with his mother Frances Philomena Guth

The photograph is from Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Frances Philomena Guth appears to have passed the photographs down to her daughter Frances Philomena Selker. Frances' daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald ended up with her mother's photo collections which is time were handed down to me. Photographer Mary Elizabeth Meisinger. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd great grandparents. Ambrose John Selker is my 2nd Great Uncle. His sister Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. Her daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald my paternal grandmother

Guth Research Update: Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch Family

This is the third post in The Guth Research Update Series. The series will be focused on the ancestors of two German born brothers – Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth who settled in Clarion County, Pennsylvania in the mid 1800's. Over the last two years the family has been extensively researched with the assistance of Ute Brandenburg the owner of German Script Experts. I am thrilled to finally share the validation of the original research completed by Jr. Janet Staab many years ago. The Guth Research Update Series will also feature previously unknown Guth family members.

Other Posts in the Series:
Guth Research Update: F.X. & Leopold Guth
Guth Research Update: Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch

The second post in the series featured the marriage record for Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch.

The third post in the series is focused on the the children born to Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch.

Sr. Janet's Original Research

Sr. Janet’s research included two generations of ancestors for Francis Xavier Guth and Leopold Guth as shown in the copy of the original hand typed chart below. 

Original Hand Typed Record for Anton Guth & Theresia Rosch Family Group 
Copy obtained from Sr. Janet Staab

Sr. Janet’s well-kept records included names, dates and locations. Some of the her records did list sources. Unfortunately not all the records shared with me listed the original sources used to complete the research. It also was not clear if Sr. Janet did all of the original research or if some of the research was completed by others.

Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Records: Births Recorded

The Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register was used to validate Sr. Janet’s original research. The original family records from Sr. Janet indicated the Francis Xavier Guth and Leopold Guth were born in Untersimonswald. Various other sources also pointed to Untersimonswald. Leopold Guth was married in a Catholic Church and his children were also baptized Catholic.

The children born to Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch that were listed in the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register:

1. Genofeva Guth, daughter, b. 6 December 1923 baptized 7 December 1823 
2. Francis Xavier Guth, son, b. 30 October 1825 baptized  30 October 1825 
3. Maria Guth, daughter, b. 6 September 1827 baptized 6 September 1827 
4. Leopold Guth, son, b. 14 November 1830 baptized 14 November 1830 
5. Anna Maria Guth, daughter, b. 26 May 1833 baptized 26 May 1833 
6. Anton Guth, son, b. 2 June 1835 baptized 2 June 1835 
7. Constantina Guth, daughter, b. 7 February 1837 baptized 8 February 1837 
8. Daniel Guth, son, b. 20 July 1839 baptized 20 July 1839 
9. Theresia Guth, daughter, b. 18 December 1840 baptized 18 December 1840 
10. Theresia Guth, daughter, b. 26 March 1843 baptized 27 March 1943 

The children were all born in the German territory known as the Grand Duchy of Baden. Genofeva  was born in Simonswald. Francis Xavier, Maria and Leopold were born in Untersimonswald. The remaining children were born in Neusimonswald. Untersimonwald and Simmonswald are neighboring towns that are very close to together. The towns are approximately 1.7 miles apart. Residents could easily have walked between the two.

Untersimmonsald and Simmonswald, Germany

Today the area formerly known as the Grand Duchy of Baden would be associated with the German State of Baden-Württemberg which was established after World War II.

Map of Confederation of the Rhine 1812

Untersimonswald would be approximately where the "o" is in Großherzogtun Baden

Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Records: Deaths Recorded

Life in the mid 1830's was very different - death was very much a part of life. Many families lost young children to disease or infections. It would be almost another 100 years until the discovery of Penicillin. Sadly Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch lost five children at very young ages. Tragically lost two children, Anton and Constantina, died within a few days of each other. The death records for the children were included in the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register:

1. Maria Guth, daughter, d. 9 January 1831 at 5 o’clock in the morning, 3 years old 
2. Anton Guth, son, d. 20 April 1838 at 9 o’clock in the morning, 2 years old
3. Constantina Guth, daughter, d. 24 April 1838 at 9 o’clock in the morning, 14 months old 
4. Theresia Guth, daughter, d. 27 December 1840 at 4 o’clock in the morning, 9 days old
5. Theresia Guth, daughter, d. 13 September 1846 at 2 o’clock in the afternoon, 3 years old

The death of Maria is recorded in Untersimonwald. The deaths of the other children are recorded in Neusimonswald.

The burials for the children were also included in the  Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register:

1. Maria Guth, daughter, burial 11 January 1831 at 8 o’clock in the morning
2. Anton Guth, son, burial 22 April 1838
3. Constantina Guth, daughter, burial 26 April 1838 at 7:30 in the morning
4. Theresia Guth, daughter, burial 29 December 1840 at 8 o’clock in the morning
5. Theresia Guth, daughter, burial 15 September 1846 at 6:30 in the morning

The burial of Maria is recorded in Untersimonwald. The burials for the other children are recorded in Neusimonswald.

Validation of the Children of Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch 

The Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register validate the nine children originally included in Sr. Janet’s records. The birth dates incorproated in Sr. Janet's records were also correct.

Observations

The Parish records use the German spelling of Rösch with the umlaut mark.

The Parish records also included a few additional discoveries.

• The first discovery was the death record for Maria Guth. 
• The second was the Parish records included the birth and death record for another daughter Constantina Guth. The original records from Sr. Janet did not list Constantina Guth.

Birth Record for Constantina Guth in the original German:

Im Jahr tausend achthundert dreissig u sieben den siebenten Febr nachts acht Uhr wurde zu Neusimonswald geboren u heute den achten Nachmittag halb drei Uhr in der Pfarrkirche von Gefestigten getauft Constantina ehel Tochter des Anton Guth Uhrenmacher u der Theresia Rösch. Zeugen sind Hr. Joseph Rösch Bauer v. Haslach, Lehrer Beck u. Maria Anna Brugger, Krämerin.
P. Dallmann Pfarrer

Birth Record for Constantina Guth translated to English:

Born in Neusimonswald on 7 February 1837 at 8 o’clock at night, and baptized today, the eighth, at 2:30 in the afternoon, by this officiant at the parish church: Constantina, legitimate daughter of the clock maker Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch.
Witnesses were Mr. Joseph Rösch, farmer from Haslach, teacher Beck, and Maria Anna Brugger, shop keeper.
P. Dallmann, Pastor
Untersimonswald Parish Register Duplicate
[Translated by Ute Brandenburg, Iowa City, IA at germanscriptexperts.com] 

Death Record for Constantina Guth in the original German:

Im Jahr tausend achthundert dreissig u. acht den vier u zwanzigsten April Morgen neun Uhr starb zu Neusimonswald Konstantina eheliches Kind des Uhrenmachers Anton Gut u der Theres Rösch u wurde 1 Jahr 2 Monat alt den sechs u zwanzigsten d. M. Morgen half acht Uhr begraben.
Zeugen sind Todtenbeschauer Eichenhofer u Lehrer Beck.
GroshBdsch Pfarramt
Dallmann Pfarrer

Death Record for Constantina Guth translated to English:

Konstantina, legitimate child of the clock maker Anton Gut and Theres Rösch, age one year and two months, died in Neusimonswald on 24 April 1838 at 9 o’clock in the morning, and was buried on the 26th of the same month at 7:30 in the morning.
Witnesses: coroner Eichenhofer and teacher Beck
Parish office of the Grand Duchy of Baden
Pastor Dallmann
Untersimonswald Parish Register Duplicate
[Translated by Ute Brandenburg, Iowa City, IA at germanscriptexperts.com] 

Corrections & Additions 

Using the data from the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register the following corrections & additions were incorporated into my records:

• Birth dates and notes were recorded and/or corrected to align with the Parish Register. 
• Baptism dates were and notes were incorporated into the register. 
• Death dates and notes were recorded and/or corrected to align with the Parish Register.
• Burial dates and notes were recorded.
• The death record for Maria Guth was incporated. 
• The birth and death records for Constantina Guth were included.  Constantina Guth was missing from the records. 

This concludes the third Guth Research Update post.

Leopold Guth is my 3rd great-grandfather. Francis Xavier Guth is my 4th Great Uncle. Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch are my 4th great grandparents. Anton Guth and Katherina Wangler are my 5th great grandparents. Johannes Rösch and Katherina Wintermantel are my 5th great grandparents. My connection to the Guth line extends through Leopold’s daughter Frances Philomena Guth, her daughter Frances Philomena Selker, to my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald.

References:

1. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5581, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1810-1825. 1823 - Baptism Record - Guth, Genovefa
2. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5581, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1810-1825. 1825 - Baptism Record - Guth, Franz Xaver
3. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1827 - Baptism Record - Guth, Maria
4. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1830 - Baptism Record - Gut, Leopold
5. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1833 - Baptism Record - Gut, Anna Maria
6. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1835 - Baptism Record - Guth, Anton
7. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1837 - Baptism Record - Guth, Constantina
8. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1839 - Baptism Record - Guth, Daniel
9. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1840 - Baptism Record - Gut, Theres
10. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1843 - Baptism Record - Guth, Theresia
11. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1831 - Death Record - Gut, Maria
12. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1838 - Death Record - Gut, Anton
13. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1838 - Death Record - Gut, Konstantina
14. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1840 - Death Record - Guth, Theres
15. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1846 - Death Record - Gut, Theres
16. Map of the Confederation of the Rhine: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rheinbund_1812,_political_map.png

Formal Portrait of Four Young Men

This lovely formal portrait of four young men with musical instruments was shared by a Selker cousin. Presently the only man identified in the portrait is Edward C. Selker. Sr. in the lower right corner. Edward was born March 28, 1894 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania - the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth. There is another formal portrait of Edward C. Selker wearing a similar suit jacket, tie and shirt. The two portraits may have been taken the same day.

It is possible that Edward was photographed with his three younger brothers - Frederick William Selker (born 1896), Ambrose John Selker (born 1898) and Vincent Aloysius Selker (born 1900). There are family stories that that all of the Selker children could play a musical instrument and that the family would have concerts on Sunday's.

It is also possible that Edward was photographed with his Guth cousins. The two men standing in the back have a similar face shape to an unidentified Guth ancestor photographed with Edward's mother in this Guth Family Portrait.

Perhaps in time the other men in the photograph will be identified.

Formal Portrait of Four Young Men
Back: Unknown, Unknown
Front: Unknown, Edward C. Selker, Sr.

This photograph is shared with permission. The original photograph is in the care of Pam Selker Rak, my 2nd cousin 2x. Edward C. Selker, Sr. is the son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth. From the Edward C. Selker Sr. Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are my 2nd great grandparents. Edward C. Selker, Sr. is my 2nd great uncle. His sister Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. 

 References:

1. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Death Certificates, 1906-1964 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2014. Edward C. Selker. Certificate Number: 9002.

Guth Research Update: Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch

This is the second post in The Guth Research Update Series. The series will be focused on the ancestors of two German born brothers – Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth who settled in Clarion County, Pennsylvania in the mid 1800's. Over the last two years the family has been extensively researched with the assistance of Ute Brandenburg the owner of German Script Experts. I am thrilled to finally share the validation of the original research completed by Jr. Janet Staab many years ago. The Guth Research Update Series will also feature previously unknown Guth family members.

Other Posts in the Series:
Guth Research Update: F.X. & Leopold Guth

The first post in the series featured the birth and baptism records for Francis Xavier Guth and Leopold Guth. The birth and baptism records validated the brothers were the children of Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch.

Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Records

The Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register was used to validate Sr. Janet’s original research. The original family records from Sr. Janet indicated the Francis Xavier Guth and Leopold Guth were born in Untersimonswald. Various other sources also pointed to Untersimonswald. Leopold Guth was married in a Catholic Church and his children were also baptized Catholic.

The marriage record for Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch was located in the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register. The couple married 30 December 1822 in Neusimonswald. At this time of their marriage Neusimonswald was in German territory known as the Grand Duchy of Baden. Today Neusimonswald would be associated with the German State of Baden-Württemberg which was established after World War II.

Map of Confederation of the Rhine 1812

Untersimonswald would be approximately where the "o" is in Großherzogtun Baden

The marriage record for Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch in the original German:

Zur Neusimonswald wurde im Jahre Tausend Achthundert Zwey und Zwanzig den dreysigsten Dezember vormittags zehn Uhr von unterseichnetem getraut - der ledige Uhrenmacher Anton Guth von Neusimonswald, ehlicher Sohn des Uhrenmacher Anton Guth und der verstorbenen Katharina Wangler, alt 30 Jahre - mit der ledigen Theresia Rösch von Altsimonswald, des Weisblechers Johann Rösch und der weiland Katherina Wintermantel ehlicher Tochter, alt 27 Jahre.Zeugen sind: Joseph Oschwald Vogt in Altsimonswald und Joh. Baptist Guth, lediger 
Zimmermann von Neusimonswald. 
Simonswald den 30ten Dezemb 1822 
Duffner Pfr 

The marriage record for Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch translated to English:

Married in Neusimonswald at 10 o’clock in the morning on 30 December 1822 by the undersigned official: Anton Guth, unmarried clock maker from Neusimonswald, legitimate son of the clock maker Anton Guth and the deceased Katherina Wangler, age 30, and Theresia Rösch, unmarried, from Altsimonswald, legitimate daughter of the tin plate maker Johann Rösch and the deceased Katherina Wintermantel; age 27 
 Witnesses: Joseph Oschwald, mayor in Altsimonswald, and Johann Baptist Guth, unmarried carpenter in Neusimonswald 
Simonswald, 30 December 1822 
Pastor Duffner 
Untersimonswald Parish Register Duplicate 
[Translated by Ute Brandenburg, Iowa City, IA with German Script Experts] 

Validation of the Marriage of Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch 

The marriage record validates the date Anton Guth & Theresia Rösch were married on the date included in Sr. Janet’s records. Sr. Janet’s records also included the reference to 10 o’clock in the morning.

The Parish register indicate the couple married in Neusimonswald and Sr. Janet’s records used Simmonswald. Untersimonwald and Simmonswald are neighboring towns that are very close to together. The towns are approximately 1.7 miles apart. Residents could easily have walked between the two. The records are from the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register. It is likely that Neusimonswald was a variation as it was noted on other Guth other records as well.

Untersimmonsald and Simmonswald, Germany

The marriage record also validates the family stories that clock making was the family trade. The German word for “uhr” means clock or watch. The marriage record indicates the occupation for Anton Guth and his father, Anton Guth, are hrenmacher or clock makers.

The marriage record includes the parents of the groom Anton Guth. The groom’s father is recorded as Anton Guth. The groom’s mother is recorded as the deceased Katherina Wangler.

The marriage record also includes the parents of the bride Theresia Rösch. The bride’s father is recorded as Johannes Rösch. The bride’s mother is recorded as Katherina Wintermantel.

The Parish records use the German spelling of Rösch with the umlaut mark.

Corrections & Additions 

Using the data from the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register the following corrections & additions were incorporated into my records:

• Marriage Location for Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch was corrected to from Simmonswald, Province of Baden, Germany to Neusimonswald, Grand Duchy of Baden. My goal is to identify the location of a fact based on the name of the location at the time the fact occurred. (If that can be determined.) 
• Marriage time of “10 o’clock in the morning” was added to the marriage record. 
• The surname of Rösch was corrected from Rosch to incorporate the use of the umlaut mark. 
• The name of Theresia Rösch’s father was corrected from Johann Rosch to Johannes Rösch to align with the marriage record. 
• The name of Theresia Rösch’s mother was corrected from Katharina Rekinttermettel to Katherina Wintermantel. Ute indicated that the original spelling, Rekinttermettel, was not transcribed from German correctly. 
• The occupation of “tin plate maker” was incorporated for Johannes Rösch. 

This concludes the second Guth Research Update post. The next post in the series will feature the children born to Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch.

Leopold Guth is my 3rd great-grandfather. Francis Xavier Guth is my 4th Great Uncle. Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch are my 4th great grandparents. Anton Guth and Katherina Wangler are my 5th great grandparents. Johannes Rösch and Katherina Wintermantel are my 5th great grandparents. My connection to the Guth line extends through Leopold’s daughter Frances Philomena Guth, her daughter Frances Philomena Selker, to my paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald.

References:

1. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5581, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1810-1825. 1822 - Marriage Record - Guth, Anton & Theresia Rösch 
2. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5581, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1810-1825. 1825 - Baptism Record - Guth, Franz Xaver 
3. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582, Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1830 - Baptism Record - Gut, Leopold
4. Map of the Confederation of the Rhine: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rheinbund_1812,_political_map.png