1944 - Murosky Family Photo

A Murosky family photograph most likely taken in late spring or summer of 1944. The family most likely gathered in 1944 to spend time with Harry Anthony Murosky who would have been on temporary leave from the Army Air Forces. Harry enlisted in the United States Army on 1 October 1942 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He was discharged from service on 13 March 1946 at Fort Dix in Burlington County, New Jersey.

Harry, age 23, was photographed with his younger sisters Rita Ann, age 17, and Marian Elaine, age 9. Their mother Helen Tillie Bukowski, age 43, was also in the photograph. Harry's nephew James Arthur Murosky, between 20 and 22 months old,  the son of Harry's brother Arthur was also in the photograph. James Arthur Murosky was the first grandchild of Helen Tillie Bukowski and Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. This visit may have been the first opportunity Harry had to meet his nephew who was born shortly after Harry enlisted in the Army. To view an individual photograph of James Arthur Murky taken the same day see the post 1944 - James Arthur Murosky.

The photograph also includes an unknown woman on the right side of Harry.

Murosky Family Photograph
Back: Rita Ann Murosky, Helen Tillie Bukowski, Harry Anthony Murosky, unknown
Front: James Arthur Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky 

This photograph is from the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Helen Tillie Bukowski is my Great Grandmother. Harry Anthony is my Great Uncle. Rita Ann and Marian Elaine Mursoky are my Great Aunts. Their sibling Arthur Murosky is my paternal Grandfather. James Arthur Murosky is my Uncle. 

References:

1. 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 Harry A. Murosky. 
2. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Veteran Compensation Application Files, WWII, 1950-1966 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2015. Record for Harry A. Murosky

1944 - James Arthur Murosky

James Arthur Murosky, most likely photographed in 1944 at age 2, enjoying some candy on a warm day. The photograph was taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. James was born October 8, 1942 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He was the oldest child born to Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald

James Arthur Murosky

This photograph is from the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

James Arthur Murosky is my Uncle. 

1948 - Marian & Eleanor

A photograph of Murosky cousins Marian Elaine Murosky and Eleanor Sell taken June 1948. This photograph of Murosky cousins was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. The photographer captured Helen's daughter Marian Elaine Murosky and Helen's niece Eleanor Sell.

When photographed Marian Elaine Murosky would have been 13 years old. Eleanor Sell, the daughter of Harry W. Sell and Esther Murosky, would have been 18 years old. The location of the photograph is unknown but it is plausible the photograph was taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Marian Elaine Murosky & Eleanor Sell

The photograph was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen was married to Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. Anthony was the brother of Esther Murosky. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Harry W. Sell and Esther Murosky are my 2nd great aunt and uncle. Esther is the sister of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. married Helen Tillie Bukowski. Their son Arthur is my paternal grandfather. Eleanor Sell is my 1st cousin 2x removed. 

1967 - A Postcard from Canada

A postcard sent to Mrs. Loraine McDonald. The postcard was dated July 12, 1967 and was postmarked from Canada. The post card was sent by Madeline Gertrude McDonald to her sister-in-law Frances Philomena Selker. The label on the postcard is for The North Lodge, Elgin House in Muskoka, Ontario. The Elgin House was a resort with views of Lake Joseph.

From Muskoka Resorts: Then and Now, page 153:

"For more than a hundred years, successive generations grew up at the famous Elgin House as families returned year after year to enjoy the northern hospitality. This grand old resort is now gone, but the memory of it remains very much alive."

From Muskoka Resorts: Then and Now, page 160:

"During the 1930's the North Lodge with additional rooms was built, bringing the number of guests Elgin House could accommodate to four hundred." 

Postcard Front

Madeline sent the postcard while vacationing with her siblings. The hand written note includes details about their vacation:

Dear Francis:

Our vacation is about at an end. Regis [Regis Andrew McDonald] & Chrs. [Charles Eugene McDonald] & Ger. [George Roth] home played golf each day & believe the vacation was good for both of them. We leave after breakfast Friday & may drop off at your place for a few minutes to see you but will go on through Friday as Reg. [Regis Andrew McDonald] will work Sat if he gets home on time & Chrs. [Charles Eugene McDonald] is anxious about his mail & will pick up Sat. Helen will write they are staying on another week.

Love - Madeline

At the time of the vacation Madeline Gertrude McDonald would have been 61 years old. Her siblings referenced in the postcard include:

• Her sister Helen Edith McDonald, age 67, and her husband George Roth.
• Her brother Regis Andrew McDonald, age 53, was most likely with his wife Bernice Auth.
• Her brother brother Charles Eugene McDonald, age 64. Both Madeline and Charles never married. 

Madeline and her siblings would have likely traveled through Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania on their way back to Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Their oldest brother Loraine Anthony McDonald, husband of Frances Philomena Selker, died in January of 1967. The siblings may have wanted to check in on Frances to see how she was doing.

Postcard Back
Madeline to  Mrs. Loraine McDonald

The Postcard Collection includes postcards from the 1940’s that were included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. The collection also includes postcards from the 1950's and 1960's that were included in the Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Madeline Gertrude Joan McDonald is my 2nd Great Aunt. Her siblings include Helen Edith McDonald, Charles Eugene McDonald, Regis Andrew McDonald and Loraine Anthony McDonald.  Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker are my great grandparents. Their daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald was my paternal grandmother. 

1920's - Frances Winifred & Mary Eugenia McDonald

Sisters Frances Winifred McDonald and Mary Eugenia McDonald most likely photographed in the late 1920's. The back of the original photograph is labeled "Jean & Fran".

Frances Winifred McDonald was the oldest child born to Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker. She was born March 18, 1920 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Mary Eugenia McDonald was the second child born on January 22, 1922 in Strattanville, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

The location of the photograph is unknown. There is a possibility the photograph may have been taken in front of 3216 Landis Street in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The 1930 United States Federal census records Loraine's parents Robert A. McDonald and Winifred A. O'Neill living at 3126 Landis Street. The house in the photograph below is very similar to the images available of 3126 Landis Street.

Mary Eugenia & Frances Winifred McDonald

From 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. Mary Eugenia McDonald is my paternal grandmother. Frances Winifred McDonald is my great aunt.

Five Generation Chart: Arthur Murosky

The five generation pedigree chart below showcases Arthur Murosky with four generations of his direct ancestors. The color coding is used to group the birthplaces of the featured individuals. If the individual is unknown black has been used. This format has been adapted from the original version shared by genealogist J. Paul Hawthorne.

The oldest ancestors featured in the chart are Ignacy Kwiatkowski and Julianna Kłos born in Poland. The chart represents at span of at least 58 years between the birth of the grandparents generation and their grandson Arthur Murosky born April 13, 1919.

Arthur Murosky

Five Generation Pedigree Chart

As shown from the chart Arthur was the grandson of immigrants:

• Antoni Murauskas whose name would be adapted to Anthony Murosky Sr. was born in the Suwałki Governorate. Following WWI the land of the Suwałki Governorate was split between Poland and Lithuania. Antoni would identify with Lithuania following WWI. Anoni arrived about 1892 and settled in Forest City, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. 
• Ewa Zilinskaite whose name would be adapted to Eva Zielinski was also born in the Suwałki Governorate. Eva arrived about 1894 and settled in Forest City, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. She married Antoni Murauskas within a year of her arrival.
• Vincinety Frank Bukowski arrived May 1, 1895 with his wife and three oldest children. The family has identified that they were from the Poland living in the German Partition. The family settled in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. 

The chart also indicates that for the Murauskas,  Zilinskaite and Bukowski lines there are currently no details known about the families in Europe. The Kwiatkowski line offers clues as the names of European family members are known. Time may reveal additional clues to the heritage of these families.

An additional chart is also shown that includes the birth and death dates for the featured individuals if known.

Arthur Murosky

Five Generation Pedigree Chart

Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. The individuals featured in the chart are my direct ancestors. 

Five Generation Chart: Mary Eugenia McDonald

The five generation pedigree chart below showcases Mary Eugenia McDonald with four generations of her direct ancestors. The color coding is used to group the birthplaces of the featured individuals. If the birth location is unknown black has been used. This format has been adapted from the original version shared by genealogist J. Paul Hawthorne.

The oldest ancestor featured in the chart is Anton Guth born 1792 in Untersimonwald, Margraviate of Baden, Holy Roman Empire. His 2nd great-grand daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald was born 130 years later on January 22, 1922 in Strattanville, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

Mary Eugenia McDonald
Five Generation Pedigree Chart

As shown from the chart the ancestors of Mary Eugenia McDonald arrived over several generations.

• David McDonald and his wife Bridget Dunn are first documented in Clarion County in 1833. David and Bridget traveled with their son James most likely arriving prior to 1833. They may have traveled with other family members as well. 
• Robert Haggerty is the son of Irish immigrant Thomas Haggerty. Thomas Haggerty arrived in the late 1700's with his first wife and at least one son named John.  
• Rebecca Easly is a descendant of the Kuhn and Easly families. These families were living in the United States prior to the Revolutionary War. 
• Michael O'Neill arrived in the United States May of 1851. Several of Michael's siblings also relocated to the United Sates. 
• Ellen Cunningham arrived in the United States June 1869. She traveled with her parents and her siblings. 
• Joseph William Selker arrived in November 1885. Joseph set out alone seeking opportunity. He would eventually return to Germany and bring two of his nieces back with him. 
• Leopold Guth arrived approximately 1850. Leopold and his brother Francis Xavier left Germany together and settled in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. 
• Theresa Loll arrived with her mother and sibling on October 7, 1852.  Her father Antoine may have traveled ahead as he was not recorded on the ship's manifest. 

An additional chart is also shown that includes the birth and death dates for the featured individuals.

Mary Eugenia McDonald

Five Generation Pedigree Chart

Mary Eugenia McDonald is my paternal grandmother. The individuals featured in the chart are my direct ancestors. 

1957 - A Postcard from Oxnard, CA

A postcard sent to Francis McDonald postmarked July 15, 1957 at 1:00 pm out of Oxnard, California. The postcard was sent by "Amelia". The identity of Amelia is currently unknown.

Postcard Front

Postcard Back

The Postcard Collection includes postcards from the 1940’s that were included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. The collection also includes postcards from the 1950's and 1960's that were included in the Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Frances Philomena Selker is my great grandmother. She married Loraine Anthony McDonald. Their daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald was my paternal grandmother.

1940's - Lillian, Joe, & 'Boodoo'

The following snapshots of Lillian and Joe with their collie "Boodoo" were mixed in with other family photographs. Several of the photographs have handwritten labels. Ironically two photographs appear to have been taken on leap day - February 29, 1948.

It is currently not known who Lillian and Joe are. The location of the photographs is also unknown. Lillian also appears in photographs from the Murosky side of the family. Visit the post Family Photos: July 1945 Murosky Family Gathering to see other photographs of Lillian.

Unknown Photograph
Lillian and "Boodoo" February 29, 1948

Joe and "Boodoo"'
The back is labeled "Joe and "Broodoo" 8 months old
February 29, 1948 

Joe and "Boodoo"

Unknown Photograph
Lillian and "Boodoo"

These photograph were mixed in with other family photographs. The photographs are most likely from Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection as Lillian is included in other Murosky family photographs.  Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Wedding Snapshot: Rita Ann Murosky & Walter E. Niemi

A snapshot from the wedding of Rita Ann Murosky & Walter E. Niemi. The wedding was held October 4, 1947 in Erie, Erie County Pennsylvania. 

Rita Ann Murosky & Walter E. Niemi

Rita Ann Murosky is the daughter of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski. Walter E. Niemi is the son of Matthew Niemi and Selma Wirtala.

The photograph was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Rita Ann Murosky is my great aunt. She is the sister of my paternal grandfather Arthur Murosky.

Madelyn Ann McDonald

Madelyn Ann McDonald possibly photographed before a high school dance. She is a wearing what looks to be a formal strapless polka-dot dress and holding a flower arrangement. There no labels or dates on the photograph. Madelyn was identified by her siblings. If taken before a high school dance the latest the photograph could have been taken is the spring of 1950 when she was 18 years old. The photograph could also have been taken in the late 1940's.

The photograph would have been taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Madelyn Ann McDonald

This photograph was 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 Eugina 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.

Madelyn Ann McDonald, affectionately known as Aunt Midge, is my Great Aunt. Her sister Mary Eugenia McDonald is my paternal grandmother. 

1957 - A Postcard from Frostburg, Maryland

A postcard sent to Mr. and Mrs. L.A. McDonald. The postcard was postmarked July 30, 1957 at 3:30 pm out of Frostburg, Maryland. The post card was sent by Kathryn Joan McDonald to her parents Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker.

Kathryn  and her husband Jack sent the postcard while vacationing. The hand written note includes details about their vacation:

Hi: Saw Gettysburg Sun. [Sunday] afternoon then drove on here to a beautiful motel. Air Cond [air conditioning] and T.V. See you soon - Jack & Joan

Postcard Front

Postcard Back
Jack & Joan to Mr. & Mrs. L.A. McDonald

The Postcard Collection includes postcards from the 1940’s that were included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. The collection also includes postcards from the 1950's and 1960's that were included in the Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Kathryn Joan McDonald is my Great Aunt. Her parents Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker are my great grandparents. Their daughter Mary Eugenia McDonald was my paternal grandmother. 

1945 - A Second Postcard from Buffalo, NY

A postcard sent to the Morosky Family. The family would have included Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. and his wife Helen Tillie Bukowski. Note the spelling variation of Murosky as Morosky. The postcard was postmarked August 11, 1945 at 5 pm out of Buffalo, New York. The post card was sent by Helen B.,most likely Helen Bukowski, the niece of Helen Tillie Bukowski.

Helen Bukowski, the daughter of John Frank Bukowski and Theresa Filipkowski, was in Buffalo, NY visiting the family of William F. Bukowski. William Bukowski, Helen's uncle, was the brother of Helen Tillie Bukowski and John Frank Bukowski. It appears several Bukowski family members traveled together. Helen writes in her postcard that she is with her cousin Leona. Helen Tillie Bukowski also received a postcard from her niece Leona Pietrzak, postmarked August 1945 out of Buffalo. To view that postcard visit the post 1945 - A Postcard from Buffalo, NY.

William F. Bukowski and his wife Celia were originally from Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Their son Norbert was born in July 13, 1920 in Pennsylvania. The family relocated to Buffalo prior to 1930. The 1930 United States Federal Census recorded the family living in  Buffalo, Erie, New York.

Helen would been 16 years old when she sent this postcard to to her Aunt Helen.

Postcard Front

Postcard Back
From Helen B. to the Morosky Family

The Postcard Collection includes postcards from the 1940’s that were included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. In addition to saving photographs Helen also saved newspaper clippings, postcards and greeting cards. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Helen Bukowski is my 1st Cousin 2x. Her father John Frank Bukowski is my 2nd Great Uncle. He is the brother of Helen Tillie Bukowski, my Great Grandmother. Helen's son Arthur is my paternal grandfather. 

References:

1. U.S., Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010. Record for Norbert Bukowski. 
2. 1930 U.S. Census, New York, Erie, Buffalo,  1930 United States Federal Census Schedule; Online Images, Record for Bukowski, Boleslaus. Lines 67-78.

1945 - A Postcard from Buffalo, NY

A postcard sent to Helen Tillie Bukowski. The postcard was postmarked August 1945 out of Buffalo, New York. The post card was sent by Leona Pietrzak - Helen's niece.

Leona Pietrzak, the daughter of Clara Tillie Bukowski, was in Buffalo, NY visiting the family of William F. Bukowski. William Bukowski, Leona's uncle, was the brother of Helen Tillie Bukowski and Clara Tillie Bukowski.

William F. Bukowski and his wife Celia were originally from Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Their son Norbert was born in July 13, 1920 in Pennsylvania. The family relocated to Buffalo prior to 1930. The 1930 United States Federal Census recorded the family living in  Buffalo, Erie, New York.

Leona would been 13 years old when she sent this postcard to to her Aunt Helen.

Postcard Front

Postcard Back
From Leona to Helen

The Postcard Collection includes postcards from the 1940’s that were included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. In addition to saving photographs Helen also saved newspaper clippings, postcards and greeting cards. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Leona Pietrzak is my 1st Cousin 2x. Her mother Clara Tillie Bukowski is my 2nd Great Aunt. She is the sister of Helen Tillie Bukowski, my Great Grandmother. Helen's son Arthur is my paternal grandfather. 

References:

1. U.S., Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS Death File, 1850-2010. Record for Norbert Bukowski. 
2. 1930 U.S. Census, New York, Erie, Buffalo,  1930 United States Federal Census Schedule; Online Images, Record for Bukowski, Boleslaus. Lines 67-78.

1966 - William Edward McDonald

This post was originally titled "1954 - Michael Herbstritt". After sharing this post I realized both the year and the person featured was wrong. The post has been updated to reflect the correct date and person. 

William Edward McDonald the son of William Loraine McDonald and Mary Ann Jennings. The photograph was likely taken spring of 1966. The photograph appears to have been taken in front of his grandparents house located at 317 East 27th Street in Erie, Pennsylvania.

William Edward McDonaldPhotographed 1966

William Loraine McDonald is the son of Loraine Anthony McDonald and Frances Philomena Selker. A copy of this photograph was included in the Frances Philomena Selker Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

William Loraine McDonald is my great uncle. He is the brother of Mary Eugenia McDonald my paternal grandmother. William Edward McDonald is my 1st cousins 1x.

1945 - A Postcard from Pittsburgh, PA

A postcard sent to Miss Marian Murosky. The postcard was postmarked August 29, 1945 out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The post card was sent by Madelyn Ann McDonald who was affectionately called "Midge".

Madelyn Ann McDonald was the sister of Mary Eugenia McDonald. Mary Eugenia married Arthur Murosky, Marian Elaine Murosky's older brother. Both families lived in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania and the members of the extended families became close. The Murosky family was living at 638 East 23rd Street when the postcard was sent. The McDonald family lived a few blocks away at 422 East 19th Street in the early 1940's.

Madelyn would been 13 years old when she sent this postcard to Marian age 10. Madelyn was most likely traveling to visit her McDonald family members which included her grandparents and cousins that lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Postcard Front

Postcard Back
From Midge to Marian

The Postcard Collection includes postcards from the 1940’s that were included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. In addition to saving photographs Helen also saved newspaper clippings, postcards and greeting cards. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Marian Elaine Murosky is my Great Aunt. Her brother Arthur Murosky married Mary Eugenia McDonald. Arthur Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald are my paternal grandparents. Madelyn Ann McDonald, affectionately known as Aunt Midge, is my Great Aunt. 

1944 - Girls with Fr. Tellers

Father Tellers photographed with a group of young girls. The back of the photograph is labeled Betty Hess, Fr. Tellers, Madelyn McDonald, Shirley Kershaw. The photograph was dated 1944. The photograph was most likely taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Father Tellers is wearing a biretta. The biretta indicates he was dressed more formally and photograph was possibly taken to document a special occasion. When photographed Madelyn Ann McDonald would have been 11 or 12 years old.

Betty Hess, Fr. Tellers, Madelyn Ann McDonald, Shirley Kershaw

This photograph was 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 Eugina 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.

Madelyn Ann McDonald, affectionately known as Aunt Midge, is my Great Aunt. Her sister Mary Eugenia McDonald is my paternal grandmother. 

1950's - Mary Eugenia McDonald & Arthur Murosky

Mary Eugenia McDonald and Arthur Murosky. The couple may have been photographed in the 1950's. The location of the photograph is currently unknown. 

Mary Eugenia & Arthur

The photograph was included in the Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Mary Eugenia McDonald and Arthur Murosky are my paternal grandparents.

Anna Gertrude Selker - Wedding Attendant

November 9, 2018 Post Correction. The formal wedding portrait has been identified. For details on how the portrait was identified see the post Wedding Announcement: Mary Selker & Bernard Martin Browsky. The bride is Mary Selker and the Groom is Bernard Martin Browsky. The officiant is Rev. A.A. Fisher. 

April 28, 2018 Post Correction. The man in the second photograph has been identified. The post was updated to include his name. The man is Frederick William Selker the brother of Anna Anna Gertrude Selker.  Another Selker descendant had a copy of the photograph with the two siblings that was labeled. The Bride and Groom are still unknown.

Mary Selker, a 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.

Frederick William Selker, a son of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, was born October 15, 1896 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. He married Eleanor E. Herman on June 19, 1933.

Anna Gertrude Selker, the youngest daughter of Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth, was born August 11, 1907 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. At age 21, she married Francis Thomas Shannon Sr. on August 21, 1928.

Anna is included in a series of unknown wedding photographs as a wedding attendant. The other individuals in the photographs are currently not identified. The back of one of the photographs is stamped "Carl and Don Clarion, Pa". The portrait has been identified as the wedding of Mary Selker and 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.

Bill

This group of photographs is part of The Unknown Photograph Collection. The photographs have been shared with the hope that in time some of the individuals will be identified. 

A grouping of unknown photographs that are labeled as "Bill". The handwriting on each photographs is similar. The identity of Bill and the location where the photographs were taken is currently unknown.

The first photograph shows a man chopping wood with a barn in the background

The second photograph shows barn with the same roof line in the background

The third photograph shows a man dressed up adjacent to a large pile of snow. 

The man in the third photograph has similar features to an identified photograph of William Murosky taken later in his life.

Identified Photograph of William Murosky

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

1942 - Murosky Family Photographs

A few snapshots of the Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. family dated September 18, 1942. The photographs were taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The exact location of the photographs is unknown. On September 17, 1942 Harry Anthony Murosky enlisted with the United States Army. It is possible the family took these photographs together before he departed for service.

Family members included in the photograph are:

Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr, age 46, and Helen Tillie Bukowski, age 41, photographed with their children Harry Anthony Murosky, age 21, and Marian Elaine Murosky, age 7.

Also included in the photograph is Mary Eugenia McDonald, age 20. Mary Eugenia was the wife of Arthur Murosky, Anthony and Helen's oldest son. Mary Eugenia was expecting her first child, James Arthur, who was born in October 1942.

Family Snapshot September 1942
Back: Harry Anthony Murosky and Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr.
Front: Helen Tillie Bukowski and Marian Elaine Murosky

Family Snapshot September 1942

Back: Harry Anthony Murosky and Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr.
Front:  Marian Elaine Murosky and Mary Eugenia McDonald (wife of Arthur Murosky)

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

Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother. She married Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Arthur married Mary Eugenia McDonald - my paternal grandmother. Harry Anthony Muroksy is my great uncle. Marian Elaine Murosky is  my great aunts.

References:

1. 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 Harry A. Murosky. 

1945 - A Postcard from Oil City, PA

A postcard sent to Mr. & Mrs. A. H. Murosky & Marian. The postcard was postmarked July 25, 1945 out of Oil City, Pennsylvania. The post card was sent to Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr, his wife Helen Tillie Bukowski and his youngest daughter Marian Elaine Murosky.

The post card was sent by their daughter-in-law Mary Eugenia McDonald, age 23,  who was traveling with her oldest daughter Barbara Jean, age 1 year and 9 months.  They were most likely traveling vising McDonald family members.

Postcard Front

Postcard Back
From Jean & Barbie to Mr. & Mrs. A. H. Murosky & Marian

The Postcard Collection includes postcards from the 1940’s that were included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. In addition to saving photographs Helen also saved newspaper clippings, postcards and greeting cards. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother. Her son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Arthur Murosky married Mary Eugenia McDonald. Barbara Jean Murosky is my aunt. 

1941 - Rita Ann & Marian Elaine Murosky

Murosky sisters Rita Ann and Marian Elaine, the daughters of Harry Anthony Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski, photographed in 1941. Depending on when the photograph was taken Rita would have been 13 or 14 and Marian would have 5 or 6.

The location of the photograph is unknown. The photograph was most likely taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.  

Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky

The photograph was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen most likely recorded the date on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. married Helen Tillie Bukowski. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky are my great aunts.

1942 - Theresa Filipkowski & Helen Tillie Bukowski

Helen Tillie Bukowski photographed with her sister-in-law Theresa Filipkowski. Theresa married John Frank Bukowski, one of Helen's older brothers. The ladies were dressed up to attend the wedding of Theresa's son Raymond H. Bukowski to Veronica A. Karpinski on June 6, 1942.

The photograph was taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The exact location of the photograph is unknown. When photographed Helen was 41 years old and Theresa was 44 years old.

Theresa Filipkowski & Helen Tillie Bukowski

The photograph was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen likely recorded the names and date on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother. She married Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Theresa Filipkowski is my 2nd Great Aunt by marriage. Her husband John Frank Bukowski is my 2nd great uncle.

1942 - Wedding Guests

The Murosky ladies dressed up to attend the wedding of Raymond H. Bukowski and Veronica A. Karpinski on June 6, 1942. The photograph was taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The exact location of the photograph is unknown.

Helen Tillie Bukowski, age 41, the aunt of the groom Raymond H. Bukowski. Helen is the sister of John Frank Bukowski - the grooms's father.

Rita Ann Murosky, age 14, and Marian Elaine Murosky, age 6. The girls are the daughters of Helen Tillie Bukowski and are first cousins of the groom Raymond H. Buowski.

The ladies included in the photograph include Mary Eugenia McDonald, age 20, wife of Arthur Murosky. Arthur is the son of Helen Tillie Bukowski and was a fist cousin of the groom Raymond H. Buowski. Mary Eugenia was expecting her first child, James Arthur, who was born in October 1942.

Mary Eugenia McDonald, Helen Tillie Bukowski, 
Rita Ann Murosky, Marian Elaine Murosky standing in front 

The photograph was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen likely recorded the names on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother. She married Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Arthur married Mary Eugenia McDonald - my paternal grandmother. Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky are my great aunts.

1942 - Wedding of Raymond H. Bukowski & Veronica A. Karpinski

Raymond H. Bukowski and Veronica A. Karpinski photographed on their wedding day. They were married June 6, 1942 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Raymond H. Bukowski, the son of John Frank Bukowski and Theresa Filipkowski, was born February 28, 1920 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Veronica A. Karpinski, the daughter of Walter Karpinski and Veronica Smolenski, was born May 8, 1921 in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Raymond and Veronica photographed on their wedding day

Their marriage license  application was filed on May 8, 1942 in Erie, Erie County Pennsylvania. The license was issued on May 11, 1942. Raymond was working as a welder was living at 629 East 21st Street. Raymond's father John Bukowski was also working as a welder. His mother Theresa is recorded as a housewife. Her maiden name is recorded as Filipowski. The marriage license indicates Raymond's parents were born in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Veronica was living at 615 East 3rd Street. Her father Walter was recorded as a drill press operator. Her mother Veronica was recorded as a housewife. Her maiden name is recorded as Smolenski. The marriage license indicates Veronica's parents were born in Poland.

The couple were married June 6, 1942 and the duplicate record was returned June 8, 1942.

Application for Marriage License for
Raymond H. Bukowski and Veronica A. Karpinski 

The wedding photograph was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen likely recorded the names on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Raymond H. Bukowski is my 1st cousin 2x. His father John Frank Bukowski is my 2nd great uncle. John Frank Bukowski is the brother of Helen Tillie Bukowski. Helen Tillie Bukowski is my great grandmother. 

References:

1. "Pennsylvania, County Marriages, 1885-1950," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VF7M-JQ8 : accessed 13 February 2016), Raymond H. Bukowski and Veronica A. Karpinski, 06 Jun 1942; citing Marriage, Pennsylvania, county courthouses, Pennsylvania; FHL microfilm 2,260,336.

1942 - Murosky Siblings with Delores

The Murosky siblings photographed September 1942 with Delores. The identity of Delores is currently unknown. She may have been a family friend. The current records for the Murosky and Bukowski families do not include any cousins named Delores.

The Murosky siblings included in the photograph are Harry Anthony Murosky age 21, Edward V. Murosky age 17, Rita Ann Murosky age 15 and Marian Elaine Murosky age 7. The siblings are the children of Harry Anthony Murosky, Jr. and Helen Tillie Bukowski. The oldest child in the family, Arthur Murosky, is not in the photograph.

The location of the photograph is unknown. The photograph was most likely taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. 

September 1942
Back: Rita Ann Murosky, Edward V. Murosky, Delores Surname Unknown
front: Edward V. Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky

The photograph was included in the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen most likely recorded the names and date on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. married Helen Tillie Bukowski. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Harry Anthony Murosky and Edward V. Murosky are my great uncles. Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky are my great aunts. 

1938 - Murosky Family Gathering

During our conversations about family history my grandfather, Arthur Murosky. told a story about how his family traveled from Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania to visit the Murosky relatives living in Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. His Aunt Margaret Murosky and her husband John Chanis were living in Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania in 1938 with their three children -  John E. Chanis, Jr., Irene Chanis and Margaret Chanis.

Shortly after arriving back in Erie my grandfather's family received word that Margaret Chanis had died after contracting meningitis.  My great grandfather, Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. then traveled back to Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania to attend the needs of his sister's family. Considering the times and how the family had just been in close contact it is remarkable none of the other Chanis children or Murosky children became infected with meningitis.

Given that the date on the photographs is 1938, the photographs were most likely taken during that visit. The distance would have made it challenging for the two families to visit often and the ladies and girls are wearing short sleeved dresses. The photographs would have been taken prior to Margaret's death on July 21, 1938. These are currently the last known photographs taken of Margaret Chanis. Prior to locating these photographs there was only one other known photograph of Margaret Chanis from her First Holy Communion.

1938 Murosky Family
Left to Right: Margaret Chanis (age 14), Margaret Murosky (age 40 or 41),
Helen Tillie Bukowski (age,37 or 38) Rita Ann Murosky (age 10),
Marian Elaine Murosky (age 2 or 3) standing in front.

1938 Murosky Family
Left to Right: Margaret Chanis (age 14), Margaret Murosky (age 40 or 41),
Helen Tillie Bukowski (age,37 or 38) Rita Ann Murosky (age 10),
Marian Elaine Murosky (age 2 or 3) standing in fron
Note this is the same photograph as above with slightly different labels. 

1938 Murosky Cousins
Harry Anthony Murosky (age 17) and Margaret Chanis (age 14)

1938 Murosky Cousins
Rose Surname Unknown, Helen Tillie Bukowski (age,37 or 38) 
and Margaret Murosky (age 40 or 41).

These photographs were part of the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen most likely recorded the names on the photograph. Helen was married to Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. Anthony was the brother of Margaret Murosky, Margaret is the mother of Irene Chanis and Margaret Chanis. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Margaret Murosky is my 2nd great aunt. Irene Chanis and Margaret Chanis are my 1st cousins 2x.  Margaret Murosky is the sister of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. married Helen Tillie Bukowski. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Harry Anthony Murosky is my great uncle. Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky are my great aunts.

References: 

1. Ancestry.com. 1930 United States Federal Census [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc, 2002. Year: 1930; Census Place: Edwardsville, Luzerne, Pennsylvania; Roll: 2066; Page: 19A; Enumeration District: 0031; Image: 883.0; FHL microfilm: 2341800. Record for John Chanis.
2. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Death Certificates, 1906-1963 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2014.  Record for Margaret Chanes. 

1937 - Murosky Family Gathering

Murosky family members photographed at a gathering in 1937. Family members included in the photograph:

• Esther Murosky the daughter of Anthony Murosky, Sr. and Eva Zielinski. Esther would have been 28 when the photograph was taken. 
• Esther is seated next to her sister-in-law Helen Tillie Bukowski. Helen, the daughter of Vincinety Frank Bukowski and Franciska Kwiatkowski, married Esther's brother - Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. Helen would have been 36 when the photograph was taken. 
• Helen is holding her youngest daughter Marian Elaine Murosky. Marian would have been 2 in this photograph. 
• Ester's niece Irene Chanis is seated to the far right, the daughter of John Chanis and Margaret Murosky, would have been 17 years old when this photograph was taken. 

The location of the photograph is unknown. The photograph was most likely taken in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. This photograph was likely taken at a Murosky family gathering. Esther and Helen are wearing the same clothing in this photograph and in a photograph from the gathering. To view photographs from the Murosky family gathering Family Photos: 1937 Murosky Family Gathering.

Esther Murosky, Helen Tillie Bukowski holding Marian Elanin Murosky, Irene Chanis

The photograph was part of the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection. Helen most likely recorded the names on the photograph. Photographer Unknown. Editing and digital restoration by Michelle M. Murosky.

Esther Murosky is my 2nd great aunt. She is the sister of Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. my great grandfather. Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr. married Helen Tillie Bukowski. Their son Arthur Murosky is my paternal grandfather. Marian Elaine Murosky is my great aunt. Irene Chanis is my 1st cousin 2x.