Irish Immigrant Mathias Cunningham

Mathias Cunningham was born about 1818 in County Waterford, Ireland. The exact location of his birth and his parents are currently unknown. Mathias married his wife Margaret Litchfield in Ireland. Margaret was born about 1818 in County Waterford, Ireland. The exact location of her birth and her parents are also currently unknown.

The couple had six children who were also born in Ireland:

1. Ellen M. Cunningham. b. 24 Aug 1847 m. to Michael O'Neill d. 6 Jan 1924
2. Margaret Cunningham b. abt 1848 m. Patrick Andrew O'Neill
3. Mary Cunningham b. abt 1850
4. James Cunningham b. between 1853-1855 d. 14 Nov 1924
5. Catherine Cunningham b. between 1856-1857
6. Bridget Cunningham b. 1859

Research completed by others also indicates that the couple may have had another child born prior 1847.

Ellen M. Cunningham and Margaret Cunningham married two O'Neill brothers who were also Irish immigrants.  Ellen married Michael O'Neill on 20 April 1871. Margaret married Patrick Andrew O'Neill about 1875. Michael and Patrick are the sons of Thomas O'Neill Jr and Bridget Conboy. The O'Neill lineage was extensively researched by two descendants - George K. and Patrick G. O'Neill. The cousins published their research findings in a book "O'Neill Descendants of Con & Katherine 1700-2000".

Arrival to Pennsylvania

The application for citizenship indicates that Mathias Cunningham departed Ireland in 1869 and arrived in the United States of America June of 1869.

Mathias Cunningham settled in Clarion County, Pennsylvania after his arrival. On 8 June 1870 he was enumerated with his family in the 1870 United States Federal Census. The family was recorded at Dwelling No. 110. Family No. 112. The members of household include:

• M. Cunningham, male age 52
• Margaret Cunningham, female age 52
• Ellen Cunningham, female age 23
• Mary Cunningham, female age 19
• James Cunningham, male age 15
• Catherine Cunningham, female age 13
• Bridget Cunningham, female age 11

The occupation for M. Cunningham is recorded as a Laborer. The occupation for Margaret Cunningham is recorded as a housekeeper. The personal estate of M. Cunningham was $10. All members of the household were born in Ireland. Mary, James, Catherine and Bridget Cunningham were attending school. The census also indicates that M. Cunningham was denied from voting.

The box for denied voting was checked because Mathias was not a United States Citizen when the Census was recorded.

Naturalization

On 1 September 1871 Mathias Cunningham became a Naturalized Citizen at the Clarion County Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas. The oath from his citizenship application reads:

Let it be Remembered, That on the 4th day of September in the year of our Lord on thousand eight hundred and seventy one personally appeared Mattias Cunningham  before me, the Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas, for the County of Clarion, who upon his solemn oath did depose and say, that he is a native of Ireland now residing in the County of Clarion, aged fifty three years or thereabouts, and that it is a bona fide his intention to become a Citizen of the United States, and to renounce forever all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign Price, Protentate, State or Sovereignty whatever and particularly to the King of Ireland and Great Britain of whom he is now a subject. 

Sworn and acknowledged this 4th day of September 1871

His Mark + Mathies Cunningham

The mark that Mathias placed on the page which was used in place of his signature. This very likely indicated that Mathias never learned to write and could not sign his name.

Application for Citizenship - Mathias Cunningham

A time of change

A decade after arrival Mathias' life changed considerably. His children grew and married. He also lost his wife Margaret. There is no record of Margaret in the 1880 United States Federal Census. The date of her death is currently unknown and would have occurred after 8 June 1870. 

In 1880 Mathias Cunningham was living with his daughter Ellen Cunningham and her husband Michael O'Neill and their numerous children. The family was enumerated in the 1880 United States Federal Census on 16 June 1880 in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Mathias is recorded as 70 years old in the census. This defers from the other references to his birth however it is not uncommon for immigrants of this time period to have a range of dates associated with their birth.

At this time the death date and burial location for Mathias Cunningham is unknown. Mathias was not recorded in the 1900 United States Federal Census. Unfortunately the 1890 United States Federal Census Fragment does not include any records from Pennsylvania.

Additional References to Mathias Cunningham

The death certificate for Ellen M. O'Neill records she born in Waterford, Ireland. Her parents are recorded as Mathias Cunningham born Waterford, Ireland and Martha Litchfield born Waterford, Ireland. The informant on the death certificate was her daughter Eleanor Monica O'Neill [Mrs. E. M. Mullen].

The death certificate for James Cunningham records he was born in Ireland. His father is recorded as Matthias Cunningham also born in Ireland. The informant on the death certificate was his niece Eleanor Monica O'Neill [Mrs. E. M. Mullen].

Mathias Cunningham is my 4th Great Grandfather. He is the father of Ellen M. Cunningham my 3rd Great Grandmother. My paternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald is a descendant of Ellen M. Cunningham and Mathias Cunningham. 

References:

1. George K. and Patrick G. O'Neill, O'Neill Descendants of Con & Katherine 1700-2000 (, April 15, 2008),
2. 1870 United States Federal Census. Year: 1870; Census Place: Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M593_1326; Page: 408A; Family History Library Film: 552825. Record for M. Cunningham lines 22-28.
3. Pennsylvania, Clarion County, Court of Common Pleas. Application for Citizenship - Matthias Cunningham.
4. 1880 United States Federal Census. Year: 1880; Census Place: Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: 1117; Page: 78C; Enumeration District: 065. Record for Michael O'Neill.
5. Pennsylvania, Death Certificates, 1906-1964. Record for Ellen M. O'Neill [Ellen M Cunningham]. Certificate number 8274.
6. Pennsylvania, Death Certificates, 1906-1964. Record for Jas Cunningham. Certificate number 110917.

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

Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

Some of the photographs in this post were originally shared December 28, 2015. Several additional holiday photos have been incorporated into the new post. At attempt has been made to place the photographs in chronological order based on labeled photographs, ages of children and common elements in the photographs. 

The Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection contained vintage Christmas photographs that appear to have been taken at different holidays. The Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection also included several holiday photographs.

1951 Vintage Christmas Photograph - The Murosky Family

These photographs were most likely taken at the home of Helen Tillie Bukowski which was located at 729 East 24th Street in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

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

1951 Murosky Family Christmas
Marian Elaine Murosky

The next photograph is of Kenneth Niemi, the son of Rita Ann Murosky and Walter E. Neimi. Kenneth would be the grandson of Helen Tillie Bukowski. Kenneth would have been 3 years old when photographed. 

1951 Murosky Family Christmas

Kenneth Niemi in front of the Christmas Tree

1953 Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

These photographs were most likely taken at the home of Helen Tillie Bukowski which was located at 729 East 24th Street in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

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

1953 Murosky Family Christmas

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

1953 Murosky Family Christmas

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

1953 Murosky Family Christmas

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

1953 Murosky Family Christmas
Helen Tillie Bukowski stands adjacent to an ironing board. Her grandson, Kenneth Niemi, plays below the Christmas tree on the left side of the frame. Ronald Murosky is on the right side of the frame wearing a cowboy hat. Helen's daughter Rita Ann Murosky is standing on the right side of the photograph.

1955 Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

Helen Tillie Bukowski photographed with her grandchildren. The photograph was estimated to have been taken in 1955 based on the ages of the children.  

1955 Murosky Family Christmas
Helen Tillie Bukowski with her Grandchildren
Back: Karen Murosky, Mary Helen Murosky, Kathleen Marie Murosky, James Arthur Murosky and Barbara Jean Murosky 
Middle: David Anthony Murosky, Christine Elaine Murosky, 
Helen Tillie Bukowski holding Thomas Charles Murosky, Robert Murosky 
Bottom: Kenneth Niemi and Ronald Murosky

1957 Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

These photographs were most likely taken at the home of Helen Tillie Bukowski which was located at 729 East 24th Street in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania.

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

1957 Murosky Family Christmas
Marian Elaine Murosky holding her daughter Janet.

1957 Murosky Family Christmas

Helen Tillie Bukowski with her daughter Marian Elaine Murosky.

1957 Murosky Family Christmas 
Helen Tillie Bukowski carries a poinsettia. Note the rotary phone in the photograph.

1957 Murosky Family Christmas 

Helen Tillie Bukowski
Note the old radio behind Helen.

1957 Murosky Family Christmas

Marian Elaine Murosky with a stocking

1962 Vintage Christmas Photographs - The Murosky Family

Helen Tillie Bukowski photographed with her grandchildren. The photograph was estimated to have been taken in 1962 based on the ages of the children.

1962 Murosky Family Christmas
Helen Tillie Bukowski with her Grandchildren
Back: Mary Helen Murosky, Kathleen Marie Murosky, Ronald Murosky, James Arthur Murosky, Kenneth Neimi 
Middle 1: David Anthony Murosky, Robert Murosky, Christine Elaine Murosky, Karen Murosky 
Middle 2: Helen Tillie Bukowski, Thomas Charles Murosky, Barbara Jean Murosky holding child 
Front: Janet Kubeja, Cheryl L. Murosky, James Michael Petrone, Jr., Joyce Kubeja, Donald Murosky (on Barbara's lap)

1962 Murosky Family Christmas
Joyce Kubeja (dark dress), Janet Kubeja (white dress), Arthur Murosky, Barbara Jean Murosky holding James Michael Petrone, Jr., Helen Tillie Bukowski, Karen Murosky

1962 Murosky Family Christmas

Back: Unknown Woman (facing away), David Anthony Murosky (handing the gift), Joyce Kubeja (dark dress), On Sofa (left to right): Donald Gregory Murosky (small boy), Arthur Murosky, Janet Kubeja, Barbara Jean Murosky holding James Michael Petrone, Jr. 

Front: Kathleen Marie Murosky with Cheryl L. Murosky

1962 Murosky Family Christmas
On Sofa (left to right) Donald Gregory Murosky, Arthur Murosky, Janet Kubeja Joyce Kubeja is sitting on the ottoman. 

The photographs were part of the Helen Tillie Bukowski Collection and the Mary Eugenia McDonald Collection. Helen was married to Anthony Harry Murosky, Jr.

Rita Ann Murosky and Marian Elaine Murosky are their daughters. Rita Ann Murosky married Walter E. Niemi - their son Kenneth Niemi is included in several of these photographs. The photographs also include Marian Elaine Murosky's daughters - Janet and Joyce Kubja.

Anthony and Helen's son Edward V. Murosky married Margaret Forgash. Their sons Ronald and Robert Murosky are included.

Anthony and Helen's son Arthur Murosky married Mary Eugenia McDonald. Their children James Arthur, Barbara Jean, Mary Helen, Kathleen Marie, Christine Elaine, David Anthony, Thomas Charles, Donald Gregory and Cheryl L. are included.

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

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

Interview with photographer Michelle Murosky

Thank you so much to Cendrine Marrouat for the interview featuring MB Boutiques and Our Ancestors - The Murosky & McDonald Ancestral Lines on her website creativeramblings!

Thank you again for this fantastic opportunity!

-Michelle

Honoring Our Veterans - Wreaths Across America

Wreaths Across America is an organization focused on honoring and remembering our veterans. Their mission is to Remember, Honor and Teach by coordinating wreath-laying cemeteries at Arlington National Cemetery and over 1,200 additional locations in all 50 states.

Remembering and Honoring our veterans is important to me. This year I made a donation to Wreaths Across America:

A Tribute to the members of our family who served in the United States Military. Remember those who served.

American Civil War: Andrew Haggerty, John Lauer, John Loll, Joseph Loll, James McDonald, John McDonald, Andrew McDonald
Spanish American War: Leopold M. Loll
WWI: Gabriel Augustine Haggerty, Vincent Charles Lynam, Robert Edwin McDonald, Joseph Murosky, Sr.
WWII: Daniel L. Bukowski, Joseph R. Bukowski, Norbert Bukowski, Raymond H. Bukowski, John E. Chanis, Jr., Anthony Aloysius Fromknecht, Raymond Loll, Barbara Lynam, Robert Aloysius Haggerty, Ambrose Aloysius McDonald, Jr., James Aloysius McDonald, Edward V. Murosky, Harry A. Murosky, William Murosky, Benjamin Ragan Norris, Christopher D. O'Neill, Edward Charles Selker, Jr., Leopold George Selker, Jr., Philip Franz Selker, Robert V. Pietrzak, Edward W. Zelazny Korean War: John Bukowski, Jr.
Vietnam War: James Arthur Murosky, Thomas S. Hazlett

The collage of our Veterans was also uploaded to the tribute site.

Remembering Our Veterans

If you would like to learn more about the military veterans in our family and their service visit the Military Veterans Page.

Are you interested in volunteering? Visit the Wreaths Across America to donate a wreath or to sign up to participate in a Wreath Laying Ceremony.

3rd Anniversary of the Old Family Photographs Website

Three years ago this week the Old Family Photographs website was launched! The website was established to preserve and share the large collections old family photographs that are in my care. Many of the photographs belonged to my great grandmothers.

Over the last three years the site has grown to house over 600 old family photographs and family documents. The documents include post cards, hand written notes, letters and newspaper clippings. The content is housed in thirteen different collections.

The collections currently available include:

• The Military Collection
• The Bukowski Collection 
• The Guth Collection 
• The Haggerty Collection
• The Holtz Collection
• The McDonald Collection 
• The Murosky Collection
• The O'Neill Collection
• The Selker Collection 
• The Zelazny Collection 
• Arthur & Mary Eugenia
• The Unknown Collection
• The Postcard Collection

Many of the photographs featured belonged to my great grandmothers Helen Bukowski and Frances Philomena Selker. Over the last three years other family members have been very generous and have donated additional photographs to be shared with the collections.

One of the key additions over the last year include the Edward C. Selker Sr. Collection. These were a lovely addition to The Selker Collection. The collection includes photographs of Edward C. Selker Sr. and his son Edward Charles Selker, Jr.

The second lovely addition expanded the Virginia McDonald Geary Collection. Virginia's daughter shared several old photographs and family records including photographs of Virginia's parents Ambrose Aloysius McDonald and Gertrude Anna O'Neill. The collection also includes photographs of Virginia's siblings Helen Gertrude McDonald and Ambrose Aloysius McDonald, Jr. Several photographs of Caroline Loretta O'Neill, Virginia's Aunt were also included.

The old family photographs website is housed under the MB Boutiques Brand. To navigate to the old family photo collections select Photo Collections from the top navigation bar.

We are very fortunate to have a large collection of old family photographs. There are still many more old photographs to be shared. My goal going into fall and winter be to continue to add new content to the site on a regular basis. New content will be shared using this platform. Updates will also be provided via the Facebook page - Our Ancestors - The Murosky & McDonald Ancestral Lines if you wish to follow along that way.

To learn more about the work to setup the website and prepare the photographs for sharing please visit the Portraits of a Life section. Portraits of a Life is a project to digitize, archive, restore and share the large collection family photographs that are in my care. View the original post Launch of the Old Family Photographs Website.

Thank you for Reading!

-Michelle

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.

Snapshot: Edward Charles Selker Jr.

A snapshot of Edward Charles Selker, Jr., the son of Edward C. Selker Sr. and Eva Theresa Margaret Zacherl. Edward was born 26 January 1926 in Shippenville, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

On 12 April 1944 Edward enlisted with the United States Navy in Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He served as a Gunner Trainer. Edward was discharged from service on 18 June 1946 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Edward married Anna Mary Phillips and the couple had four children. This snapshot was taken by his wife shortly after their honeymoon in 1951. Edward was twenty five years old in this snapshot.

Edward passed away on 24 June 1992. He is buried with his Selker ancestors at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

Edward C. Selker, Jr.
Photographed in 1951 - age 25

This photograph is shared with permission. The original photograph is in the care of Pam Selker Rak my 2nd cousin 2x. Edward C. Selker, Jr. is a grandson 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.

Edward C. Selker, Jr. is my 1st cousin 2x removed. He is a first cousin to my maternal grandmother Mary Eugenia McDonald. Joseph William Selker and Frances Philomena Guth are the common grandparents that link the cousins. 

 References:

1. Ancestry.com. Pennsylvania, Veteran Compensation Application Files, WWII, 1950-1966 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2015. Record for Edward Charles Selker, Jr. 
2. Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania Veterans Burial Cards, 1950-2010; Series Number: Series 4. Record for Edward C. Selker Jr. 
3. Find A Grave Memorial Number 84311697 

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

Memorial Day - Honoring the Fallen

Decoration Day was officially proclaimed in May of 1868 to honor the soldiers who died in the American Civil War. On the first Decoration Day 5,000 people gathered to decorate the graves of 20,000 Union and Confederate Soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Today we know Decoration Day as Memorial Day. In 1971 Memorial Day was declared a National Holiday.

“Today is the day we put aside to remember fallen heroes and to pray that no heroes will ever have to die for us again. It's a day of thanks for the valor of others, a day to remember the splendor of America and those of her children who rest in this cemetery and others. It's a day to be with the family and remember. 

I was thinking this morning that across the country children and their parents will be going to the town parade and the young ones will sit on the sidewalks and wave their flags as the band goes by. Later, maybe, they'll have a cookout or a day at the beach. And that's good, because today is a day to be with the family and to remember."

-Ronald Reagan, 1986 Memorial Day Speech at Arlington National Cemetery.

As you enjoy your time with family and friends - please take a moment to honor the members of our family who died in service to our country:

American Civil War

Private Andrew Haggerty, my 4h great uncle, was the son of Robert Haggerty and Rebecca Easly. He was born in 1839 and served in the Civil War. He died at Gettysburg on July 2, 1863.To learn more about Andrew Haggerty view Private Andrew J. Haggerty - Civil War, Pennsylvania Infantry, 148th Regiment, Company I.

John Loll, my 4h great uncle, was born in Marcholsheim, Alsace, France on 08 Oct 1843. He is the son of Antoine Loll and Mary Ann Jehl, my 4th great grandparents. He arrived in the United States on 07 Oct 1852 at the Port of New York when he was 9 years old with his family. At the age of 18 he would serve in the Union Army. In February of 1862 he would be wounded in battle and would die as a casualty of war on June 10, 1862 in a hospital in Washington, D.C.

Private John McDonald, my 4th great uncle and brother of James McDonald, also served in the civil war. He enlisted as a private on February 25, 1864 at approximately age 28 with Company F, 63rd Regiment.  He was transferred to Company H, the 105th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. He died October 16, 1864 in Beverly, New Jersey. He is buried in Beverly National Cemetery in Beverly, Burlington County, New Jersey. His grave marker references Company H, 105 PA. Inf. To view his  his grave marker visit this link. To learn more about John McDonald view The Mystery of Pvt John McDonald - Civil War Solider.

World War II

Memorial Wall, Honolulu, HI

Second Lieutenant Raymond Loll, my 2nd cousin 3x removed, was born in 1922 the son of Francis G. Loll, my 2nd cousin 3x removed, and Elizabeth Hartle. On February 20, 1943, at age 21, Raymond enlisted with the Air Corps in Miami Beach, Florida. Raymond was trained as a B-29 pilot and assigned to the 43rd Bomber Squadron and the 29th Bomber Group designated 'Very Heavy'. On April 14, 1945 Raymond's plane was lost and the crew perished on a Mission to Tokyo. Raymond was recorded as Missing in Action or Buried at Sea. Raymond was 23 years old at the time of his death. He was awarded a Purple Heart and an Air Medal for his service. He is also honored in the Tablets of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. To learn more about Raymond Loll view Raymond C. Loll - B29 Bomber Pilot.

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

Ambrose Aloysius McDonald, Jr.

The gravemarker for Ambrose in Arlington National Cemetery

Staff Sergeant Christopher D. O'Neill, my 1st cousin 3x removed, was born in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania in 1919. He was the son of Owen James O'Neill and Nellie Boyles. Christopher was was a member of the 579th Bomber Squadron, 392nd Bomber Group, Heavy. He served as s a Right Waist Gunner/Assistant Engineer on the B-24 aircraft. He died on November 6, 1943 in a German Hospital in Middelburg, the Netherland after suffering injuries from jumping out his aircraft the day before. He was buried in the Ardennes American War Cemetery in Belgium. He was awarded a Purple Heart and an Air Medal for his service. To view his  his grave marker visit this link.

References:

1. Memorial Day - http://www.usmemorialday.org/&nbsp

GeneaBloggers: May I Introduce To You . . . Michelle Murosky

If you are not familiar with Geneabloggers I would encourage you to check it out! GeneaBloggers encourages family history blogging. The site is a great source with a lot of helpful information.
The site hosts the Genealogy Blog Roll.

Last summer I submitted Our Ancestors - The Murosky & McDonald Ancestral Lines to Geneabloggers for their consideration to be added to the Genealogy Blog Roll. On August 17, 2016 Geneabloggers accepted my submission and incorporated Our Ancestors - The Murosky & McDonald Ancestral Lines!

I was very humbled when Wendy Mathias with GeneaBloggers reached out and asked if I would participate in the "May I Introduce To You . . ." series. Family history is my passion - so I was thrilled to participate. My interview was published today. You can read my interview at May I Introduce To You . . . Michelle Murosky.

Thank you Geneabloggers so much for this fantastic opportunity!

-Michelle

Guth Research Update: F.X. & Leopold Guth

This is the first 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.

Many years ago Sr. Janet Staab, my cousin and a fellow descendant of Leopold Guth, completed the original research on the Guth family. Her records indicated that two brothers, Francis Xavier and his younger brother Leopold Guth were born in Untersimonswald, Baden, Germany. Based on the evidence available to date Francis Xavier Guth departed Germany in the 1840's.  It appears that Leopold followed in his older brother's footsteps departing Germany in the early 1850's. The brothers settled in Clarion County, Pennsylvania. They were well known in Clarion as business owners - for their trade as jewelers and watchmakers. In the late 1870's the brothers owned several tracks of land in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

The 1877 Illustrated Atlas of Clarion County shows the two brothers owning property in the center of Clarion on Wood Street. Each brother is shown with a double lot. Francis Xavier Guth listed with property number 176 and 177 at the intersection of Wood Street & Fourth Avenue. Leopold Guth listed with property 180 and 181 at the intersection of Wood Street & Fifth Avenue.

1877 Illustrated Atlas of Clarion County
Land Owned by Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth shaded in blue.

The 1877 Illustrated Atlas of Clarion County also identifies tracks of land to the south of town owned by the brothers. In two instances the brothers owned tracks of land located adjacent to each other.

1877 Illustrated Atlas of Clarion County
Land Owned by Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth shaded in blue.

The older of the two brothers, Francis Xavier Guth, married a fellow German immigrant - Fortunata Kemmerer.  The couple married prior to 1850 as they were enumerated in the 1850 United States Federal Census living in Elk, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Sometime between 1850 and 1860 the couple relocated to Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania where they were enumerated in the 1860 United States Federal Census with their children. Francis Xavier Guth would live in Clarion for the rest of his life. Francis Xavier Guth was 59 years old when he passed away on 15 April 1885. He is buried at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

Leopold Guth
Formal Portrait most likely taken between 1894 and 1900

Leopold Guth was five years younger his brother Francis Xavier Guth. He departed Germany in the 1850’s. Leopold Guth married Theresa Loll on 20 January 1853 at the Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion, Clarion County Pennsylvania. Theresa, also an immigrant, was born in Marcholsheim, Alsace, France. She was the daughter of Antoine Loll and Mary Ann Jehl. The 1860 United States Federal Census records Leopold and Theresa living in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania with their children. The couple would reside in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania for the rest of their lives. In time Leopold would become a well-known member of the community which is noted in his Obituary. Leopold Guth was 74 years old when he passed away on 13 June 1905. He is buried at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Clarion, Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

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.

Validating the Research

As mentioned in my post Remembering Sr. Janet Staab, OSB Sr. Janet's research served as the foundation for what we know about the Guth and the Selker families. One of my research goals was to validate her original research through sources. Over time I have been able to validate events that occurred in the United States through birth, marriage, death, census and other records. The one major gap was validating the German ancestors of Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth.

To accomplish that goal I engaged Ute Brandenburg the owner of German Script Experts to validate the initial research on the German families.  Over the last two years Ute has been able to both validate and expand the original Guth research using German Catholic Parish Registers. Records from 1810-1869 were accessed online at Landesarchiv Baden-Württemberg. Records prior to 1810 were obtained from the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ute makes regular visits to Salt Lake City to complete research for clients. While onsite she went through the microfilm to locate Guth family members. After locating the records she documented the original German and provided an English translation.

The original Guth pedigree based on Sr. Janet Staab's records is shown below. This would serve as the basis to validating the research.

Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Records

The starting point for the project was to research the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register. The original family records from Sr. Janet indicated the brothers 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.

Baptism records for Francis Xavier Guth and Leopold Guth were located in the Untersimonswald Catholic Parish Register. The brothers were born in 1825 and 1830. At this time of their birth Untersimonswald was in German territory known as the Grand Duchy of Baden. Today Untersimonswald 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 birth and baptism recorded for Francis Xavier Guth in the original German:

In U. Simonswald wurde im Jahre Tausend Achthundert Fünf u zwanzig am dreissigsten

October Nachmittags zwey Uhr geboren und Abends fünf Uhr getauft: Franz Xaver ehler des Anton Guth, Uhrenmacher, und der Theresia Rösch von da.

Zeugen sind: Joseph Beck Lehrer dahier, und Joseph Rösch lediger Bauernsohn in Haslach, als

Pathe mit Maria Karstinger.

Simonswald d. 30ten Octob 1825

Pfr Duffner

The birth and baptism recorded for Francis Xavier Guth translated to English:

Born at 2 o’clock in the afternoon on 30 October 1825 in Untersimonswald, and baptized that evening at 5 o’clock: Franz Xaver, legitimate [son] of Anton Guth, clock maker, and Theresia Rösch, from there.

Witnesses: Joseph Beck, teacher here, and Joseph Rösch, unmarried farmer’s son from Haslach, who was a sponsor along with Maria Karstinger.

Simonswald, 30 October 1825

Pastor Duffner

Untersimonswald Parish Register Duplicate

[Translated by Ute Brandenburg, Iowa City, IA with German Script Experts]

The birth and baptism recorded for Leopold Guth in the original German:  

Im Jahre tausend achthundert dreysig am vierzehnten November Mittags zwölf Uhr wurde in U. Simonswald geboren, und denselben Tag Abends fünf Uhr dahier getauft Leopold ehler Sohn des Anton Gut, Uhrenmacher, und der Theresia Rösch von da.

Zeugen sind: Hr. Joseph Rösch, Bauer in Haslach, Pathe mit Maria Karstinger, Kieferin dahier, und Joseph Bek, hiesiger Schullehrer.

U/Simonswald d 14ten November 1830

Duffner Pfarrer

The birth and baptism recorded for Leopold Guth translated to English:  

Born in Untersimonswald on 14 November 1830 at 12 noon, and baptized the same day at 5 o’clock in the evening: Leopold, legitimate son of the clock maker Anton Gut and Theresia Rösch, from here.

The witnesses were: Mr. Joseph Rösch, farmer in Haslach, who was also a sponsor along with Maria Karstinger, cooper’s wife here, and Joseph Beck, school teacher from here.

Untersimonswald, 14 November 1830

Pastor Duffner

Untersimonswald Parish Register Duplicate

[Translated by Ute Brandenburg, Iowa City, IA at German Script Experts]

It is plausible that Leopold was named after Grand Duke Leopold of Baden. Grand Duke Leopold succeeded Grand Duke Louis I on 30 March 1830. The Grand Duke would serve as the ruler of the Duchy.

Validation of Francis Xavier Guth & Leopold Guth

The baptismal records validate the birth dates and birth location of Untersimonswald for Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth. The baptismal records also validate that the brothers are the children of Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch. The reference to "legitimate son" indicates that Anton Guth and Theresia Rösch were married in the Catholic Church prior to the birth of their children.

An additional observation is that Francis Xavier was recorded with the surname Guth and Leopold was recorded with the surname Gut. We discovered that the surname would vary between Guth and Gut depending on the record.

One difference is the German spelling of Rösch recorded in the records uses the umlaut mark.

Corrections & Additions 

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

• Baptismal dates for Francis Xavier & Leopold Guth.
• Birth & Baptismal Location were corrected to Untersimmonswald, 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.)
• The surname of Rösch was corrected from Rosch to incorporate the use of the umlaut mark.

This concludes the initial Guth Research Update post. The next post in the series will feature the parents of Francis Xavier and Leopold Guth - 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. 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. 1825 - Baptism Record - Guth, Franz Xaver
2. Staatsarchiv Freiburg L 10 Nr. 5582,  Untersimonswald, Simonswald EM; Katholische Gemeinde: Pfarrei St. Peter, Standesbuch 1826-1844. 1830 - Baptism Record - Gut, Leopold  
3. Map of the Confederation of the Rhine: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rheinbund_1812,_political_map.png 
4. 1850 United States Federal Census. Year: 1850; Census Place: Elk, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M432_767; Page: 247A; Image: 499. Record for F. H. Gut.
5. 1860 United States Federal Census. Year: 1860; Census Place: Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M653_1095; Page: 68; Family History Library Film: 805095. Record for Leopold Guth.
6. 1860 United States Federal Census. Year: 1860; Census Place: Clarion, Clarion, Pennsylvania; Roll: M653_1095; Page: 79; Family History Library Film: 805095. Record for Francis X Guth.
7. U.S., Indexed County Land Ownership Maps, 1860-1918 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2010. Town: Clarion, Map: 1877. F.X. Guth.
8. U.S., Indexed County Land Ownership Maps, 1860-1918 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2010. Town: Clarion, Map: 1877. Leopold Guth.
9. Joseph A. Caldwell, Caldwell's Illustrated historical combination atlas of Clarion County, Pennsylvania / from actual surveys by & under the directions of Henry Cring ; assisted by C.T. Arms ... [et al.]. (Condit, Ohio, J.A. Caldwell, 1877), Library of Congress Geography and Map Division, Washington, D.C. 20540-4650 USA