Showing posts with label Lucy Amy Reed Sanders(1848-1918). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lucy Amy Reed Sanders(1848-1918). Show all posts

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Wedding Invitation for the marriage of Fannie Russell Parsons to Jonathan W. Arnold on June 15th, 1881

Envelop for the wedding invitation
Envelop for the wedding invitation

 Here is a wedding invitation that was sent to my Great Grandaunt Lucy Sanders and her husband John Dresser Lawrence. The wedding was to be held on June 15th, 1881 and I don't think the attended as the usher card was still with the envelope.

 Mrs. & Mrs. Isaac L. Parsons

desire your presence

a the marriage of their daughter

Fannie Russell

to Jonathan W. Arnold

Wednesday afternoon, June 15th

at half past five o'clock

Congregational Church

Florence Mass

1881

The Wedding Invitation
The Wedding Invitation



The Usher's Card
The Usher's Card

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

Family Letters: Eleventh letter from Sarah Sanders Reed to Lucy Reed Lawrence

Sarah Wheeler Sanders Reed
Sarah Wheeler Sanders Reed


 Grimeel April 17

My Dear Lillie

    You letter came yesterday and am glad that you are feelin so well. I came here last Monday with cousin Lucius and I am having a very pleasant visit. The friends are all well excepting cousin Albert and I think he seems very much as he did when I was here three years ago this summer. Howard and his wife have grown old in their looks. Bernie is very much thinner in flesh and does not look as strong as she used to. Howard has not fully recovered from [ILLEGABLE] such fit of sickness he had a year ago last winter. Annie is out of town just now but expects to be home after a week or two. Yesterday I went with Cousin Lucius and Mary to a church supper and had a pleasant time. This morning I expect to go to ride with cousin Lucius and we are to call at William and Sue. The new baby six weeks old. I have been to will every day since I came. 

    I am anxious to hear from home. Albert had a postal from auntie last Saturday and she said Jennie was sick with griffer and had not been showed for two days. I hope I shall have a letter this morning saying that she is much better. If I don't I shall feel quite uneasy. Rebecca made me a black silk shirt waist and I think looks very nice. She found a remnant of silk and it is of very nice quality. I have not warn it yet. You speak of spring weather. She would better it have if they could have it. Very dry and dusty. Have had windy and [ILLEGABLE] for months.

I should like John get a situation where he is contented but wish it could be nearer home thus Battle Creek if it is best. [ILLEGABLE] him very low. I am feeling first rate and have a good apatite and sleep well. I seems as if might be of some [ILLEGABLE] a hour.\

With a great deal of love,

Yours affectionately

Sarah W. Reed


Here is a scan of the original.

Sunday, April 16, 2023

Family Letters: Albert Sanders letter to Lucy Reed Lawrence

7/19/'07

Mrs. J.D. Lawrence,
    %McKinley Hotel., Canton, O.

Dear Lillie:-
    
    I herewith enclose a letter that came today, also a letter from Mr. Quinby and my reply to the latter. The mystery of the loss of $200.00 or $300.00 or whatever it may be, is unsolved, as you will see from reading Mr. Quinby's letter. I don't know what to make of it. Mr. Quinby in his letter speaks of John's helping him to pay off the men - also says he said he did not have any money with him but would have some in a few days. The situation is quite mysterious and I do not know that we can solve it..

    We are all getting along - that is what there is of us, at our house, all right. We expect the girls to be home some time next week. The two boxes came by express yesterday. I opened one of them and found it contained that fish and John's picture. I will not open the other one until you get here and then you can make what disposition you wish of them. I take it that you are spending this week with Mrs. Harrison and that probably we shall not see you until some time next week.

    With great love, 
                                                                            Sincerely
                                                                                    AD. Sanders
ADS_MW


Here is a link to the scan of the letter.

Friday, March 17, 2023

Family Letters: Tenth Letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to Lucy Amy Reed-March 17th, 1895


Sarah Wheeler Sanders Reed
Sarah Wheeler Sanders Reed


Sunday Afternoon

My Dear Lillie

    I was glad to hear from you for it seemed a good while since you wrote last. Do you not think that you can come home this vacation it seems a good while since you were here last thanksgiving. The term closes I think the third of April and there will be two weeks vacation.  This term has been thirteen weeks one week longer then usual. I am very sorry to hear that you have a bad cold and soar throat but think there has been much sickness and in many other places the last few weeks. I had a slight attack of [ILLEGABLE] week before last and had the Dr. down and he said he had not been so busy for ten years.

Little David was in bed a day or two last week but has been alright today. He has had a hard winter. If he takes a little cold it brings on a hard cough and he gets cold so easy.  Jennie is not at all well and I do not think she will be till we have more settled weather. WE have not heard from Evanston for nearly two weeks but I think they have been considerably well this winter. Cousin [ILLEGABLE] was sick [ILLEGABLE] with Bronchitis for two weeks as [ILLEGABLE] but has gone home I think. Mr and Mrs Josiah Pasnen were here to dine yesterday he is wonderfully sound for a man in his eighty ninth year. I have not seen aunt Helen for two or three weeks but she expects to work for [ILLEGABLE] the last week in March. I am inclined to think she will go back to California when she gets her affairs settled.

I went to church this morning and we had a very impressive sermon from Mr. Vandyke from the words it is appointed unto man once to die and after death the judgement. It is just one year today since father Strong died March seventeenth.

Little Ruths birthday comes one week from tomorrow the twenty fifth. I presume she will have a party. Old Ted is a Wright and has a great appetite but does not grow fat as I should think he might. Emma is very attentive to his wants and he gets a good deal of waiting. Her father was taken sick yesterday and she is at home but we hope it will be but for a few days. I hope that you will be careful of yourself these days I think March a very trying month.

Let us hear from you as often as you can. Auntie sends love.

Love to John.

Yours affectionately

Sarah W, Reed

Come home if you can.


  • There is a clue in here as to the date of the letter.  She mentions that Father Strong died one year ago on March 17th.  Her daughter in Law Rebecca Strong's father was Ebenezer Strong and he died on March 17th, 1894.  Therefore this letter was written on March 17th, 1895.  
Here is the original letter.



Thursday, February 23, 2023

Family Letters: Eighth Letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to Lucy Amy Reed

 

Sarah Wheeler Sanders Reed
Sarah Wheeler Sanders Reed

Tuesday Afternoon

My dear Lillie

We received your letter yesterday morning and am glad to know that you are feeling better and I should be very glad to have you keep home from us is it sound best for us to go to housekeeping. Auntie is very feeble and is not able to go upstairs to sleep and I find I cannot [ILLEGIBLE] much and her am very comfortable situation. [ILLEGIBLE] have Jennie [ILLEGIBLE] and can have [ILLEGIBLE] when we like and the both soon is so near that we think it will be best for us to stay home through the winter. Some days auntie seems very comfortable but she grows feeble and has to have the [ILLEGIBLE] very often. She has little strength and when she rides needs someone to help her into the carriage. She cannot sow or knit but reads a great deal.

 If John does not stay where he is why not come here for the winter. I think Jennie would board you for less price than anyone else and it could be pleasant for us all.

Last nights gazette says that Harry Robberts is going to be married to a young widow with one child.  She is the head milliner at the Imperial and the family do not approve.  We have not heard from Albert this week but they are all well at last accounts with the exception of Edward who was not well when he wrote. The family here are comfortably well although Ned does not seem as well as usual. He is troubled with something but David seems real well and does a good deal of business for his father. The school commences again in two weeks. Amy Lane has resigned and will not teach this year. I tends to study her do not hear from Aunt Helen very much but she is keeping house in Whatley and the last we heard Hugh [ILLEGABLE] was with her.

I have not been feeling as well as usual for a day or two but think I shall be allright soon. I think it is a little indigestion. Hope that you will think best to spend the winter with us. Remember me to John. 

With much love,

Sarah W. Reed

Let us hear soon. 

Here is the scanned letter, please see if you can identify the illegible words.

 

Saturday, February 11, 2023

Family Letters: Seventh Letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to Lucy Amy Reed

Sarah Wheeler Sanders
Sarah Wheeler Sanders

[ILLEGIBLE]
March 18

Dear Lillie

    I have just received aunt Lucy's letter written Sunday but Jennie's written Friday I got last night. Jennie [ILLEGIBLE] picked up[ILLEGIBLE] in their front yard. I suspect the postman must have dropped it in the morning. I am glad that you are all so comfortable and hope that you will continue to be. I guess that Lillie will enjoy the change and it be a good thing for her but I think Ponco may not like it as well. I think it quite an undertaking for you to have the house cleaned but I know it needs doing very much. I did not do any cleaning so [ILLEGIBLE] but washed the paint most of it in the sitting room and the dinning room. The mopbonre behind the lounge and couch I did not wash and the window. The carpet in our room and in the hall above and below and stairs need it very much.

If I was home and able I would chosen the sitting room.  I am glad the windows and doors have been fixed they needed it so much and Albert says there is something wrong with the sink in the back chamber and it ought to be fixed. We had a very cold blustery day Sunday and yesterday was very sharp this morning Albert thought the mercury would be at two, but it is very bright and the sun is warm. Rebecca has gone to the city this morning I think it is Home Missionary Day. She has had two more invitations to speak but has declined one I think may accept the other. Albert does not expect to go to New York until the very last of the month Ruth is to have a birthday [ILLIGIBLE] which is I think next wee, Wednesday. I was pleased to see [ILLEGIBLE] letter and when auntie [ILLEGIBLE] write her give her my love. I am sorry Mrs Harvey id so proud and also Mrs. Pothan. My love to them when you on thu We see Mrs Harpham very after Watson her oldest boy got his nose broken last Saturday but is getting along very well. She has two very bright boys.

I cannot realize that it has been but two weeks since I left home it seems much longer. I have been hemming some napkins for R. and I am going to do some for Mrs Harphan when she brings them to me. I hope that you will keep well. I think a good deal about you and wish I could be home but suppose it is best for me to stay at present. Glad the boys are getting on well give them a great deal if life. Remember me to Nellie also. Did David ever will Little Lord Fauntleroy. I am sending it to Ruth. I read it good ago-but it seems new to me. It is a [ILLEGIBLE] book. Albert is having a [ILLEGIBLE] week and it is [ILLEGIBLE] troublesome but somewhat better. I am glad you let me hear so often.

With love to you all S W Reed


Here is the scanned letter.  I had a bit of trouble with this one and not everything makes sense  Maybe someone else can fill in the gaps.

Thursday, February 9, 2023

Family Letters: Letter about John Dresser Lawrence's Death


Business Card of John Dresser Lawrence
Business Card of John Dresser Lawrence


 7/19/07

Mr. J.D.W. Quinby,

    Rangeley, Me.

Dear Sir,

    Replying to your esteemed letter of the 14th, in behalf of Mrs. Lawrence permit me to thank you for giving us the particulars of Mr. Lawrence's last sickness. Will you kindly render to Mrs. Lawrence a full account of what Mr. Lawrence has paid you from time to time on this fish pond business and what you have expended on his account for this purpose. Also if not too much trouble tell us just what condition the enterprise is in and if you would be willing to take it off Mr. Lawrence's hands allowing Mrs. Lawrence something for the money that has already been expanded in bringing the pond to its present condition.

Mrs. Lawrence is hardly in shape to carry on an enterprise of that kind and as long as you are on the ground perhaps you can make it pay.

Very truly,


ADS-MW


Here is the original.

Monday, February 6, 2023

Family Letters: Sixth letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to her daughter Lucy Amy Reed

 


Sunday Afternoon

My dear Lillie

We got you letter yesterday acknowledging the receipt of the night dresses.

 By the way they have some which I had in the house but they had fun was had and I thought you would like them better then those that had not been laundered.

I can get some more when I need them. 

I am sorry to hear that you have overdone but hope that you will keep very quiet until you are better.  Let us hear how you are. We heard from Evanston Friday all well expecting Father Strong and I think he seems to be failing. His fever had [ILLEGIBLE] few weeks and his [ILLEGIBLE] was 100. and his mind which been very clear seemed confused the morning A. wrote and I think that a bad situation. Hope we hear again soon. They are well at Jennies and mother Wright went to church today for the first time this year.  We have been having [ILLEGIBLE] family for a few days being the twenty second of February.  Aunties hand is better but not a strong as usual. Aunt Helen is still with us has been doing some work for Jennie.  I [ILLEGIBLE] you can keep warm these dreadfully cold days. Mercury went go below zero at [ILLEGIBLE] this morning. Ted is fat and flourishing. [ILLEGIBLE] good if he can have all the raw meat he wants.

[ILLEGIBLE] not well and we have to be careful of her. We do not let her do any lifting.  ([ILLEGIBLE] weakness).  I have been to church this morning for the second time this year. I am afraid we shall have more snow it looks like it this afternoon.

I am very glad that John sings in church. He will more interested to go and I hope he will get a blessing. I think it will be very pleasant for you to have him go.

Aunty sends her love. Little D. has just come in and he sends his love to you. I am yours with much love.

   Sarah W. Reed

Helen is looking for [ILLEGIBLE]


Here is the scanned letter.


Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Family Letters: Fifth letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to her daughter Lucy Amy Reed



There are a few words that I have guessed at in this one so if anyone has a better guess let me know.


 Sunday Afternoon

My dear Lillie,

    Tonight I received by the last mail a package from you containing a very nice white apron for was birthday present from you for which I wish to thank you.  The boys are much pleased with their brownie neckties and if they knew I was writing would have done the same thing thanks. Auntie went to Hyde Park yesterday morning for a weeks visit with Aunt Charlotte and I am staying at Jennie's one Sunday expect Elinor tomorrow morning. Jennie is very poorly but is I think feeling some better then a week ago. The boys expect to go to school tomorrow and that will be some relief.  David did not go at all in the winter term but he but he went to church today for the first time in months.  

Uncle Albert Sanderson is very poorly and if the weather had been suitable David would have driven me  up there this afternoon. Received a nice shell comb from Albert for my birthday and Auntie and Jennie gave me a handsome lounge cover for the lounge upstairs and from the boys I had two plants a cornation pink and a heliatroper. We have been cleaning home and the girls went home and have the heaviest part of it done.

Aunt Helen went to Whately Thursday morning but will she think be back again about the first of May.  She expects to go to Calapair before snow flies.  Ned has just come in and sends love and many thanks.  Old Ted is well and has a good apatite.

 Had a letter from cousin Elinor last week.  She left home Christmas day and got home the last of March. Did not hear from Evanston last week but at last accounts are all well.  I hope that your cough is better before this time. I wish you could come here. Write often.

affectionately yours,

Sarah W. Reed


Here is the scanned copy if you want to try and pick out the other words. 

I am not sure who the following people are:

  • Aunt Charlotte
  • Elinor
  • Uncle Albert Sanderson
  • Aunt Helen
  • Old Ted-I expect Old Ted is an animal
  • cousin Elinor

Family


Saturday, January 28, 2023

Family Letters: Forth letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to her daughter Lucy Amy Reed

 April 16 1905

Sunday Afternoon

My dear Lillie.

    We are having a bright beautiful day but the wind is very cold like March. We have had some nice warm days the grass is very green and the maples and elm trees are in bloom.  The men of the family have gone to ride and to look for cirbutus which are in bloom. This is David S. birthday eighteen years old. It seems barely feasible. Jennie has not felt very well for a few days.  She works altogether too hard and always if and the spring weather.  She is cleaning house and with her other work is much more then than she ought to do.  Aunt Lucy is felling very well these days lives on the terrace several hours everyday when the weather is comfortably. Aunty had a nice letter from Cousin [ILLEGABLE] last week all about as usual and Will Sanders has another Bug.

I think they are all well at Evanston.  I received silk very beautiful a shirt waist from Rebecca last week and said if I would come out there she would make it fit me. Aunt Lucy and Jennie gave me [ILLEGABLE] for a dress and the boys two pairs of stockings. Thank you for your pretty collars. I am glad to know that you are thinking of surrounding yourself with Gods people. It has been my prayer for you many years and may Our Heavenly Father enable you to live to his glory. You were not  [ILLEGABLE] in infancy and I have often wished that my children had been.

I am very anxious to have our boys know Christmas now in their early days but they seem [ILLEGABLE] Unconcerned and indifferent to spiritual things. Wont you pray for them that they my become the servants of God. That they may be blessings to them that they may lead holy and useful lives. I do so much wish that you could live nearer to us where we could see you often. It would be such a comfort. How is John since his ulcer. I think the weather we had this spring has been very bad for his rheumatism. I hope his cough is much better.

Jennie is having some trouble with a blister on her hand which troubles her some about walking.  What do you hear from mother Lawrence and liver another as well as usual.  I believe that Rebecca birthday is the 24 of April.

David has just took a new milch cow and her calf.

Give to my love to John and tell him I hope he will be much better. [ILLEGABLE].

With much love

Yours affectionally

S.W. Reed

Here is the scanned copy if you want to try and pick out the other words. 

Family

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Family Letters: Third letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to her daughter Lucy Amy Reed

Sarah Wheeler Sanders
Sarah Wheeler Sanders


 Benson [ILLEGIBLE]

Monday Morning

Dear Lillie

    Your letter came on Saturday but it seems to have mislaid and I did not see it until this morning. I got one from Jannie within the same day of yours but that was received Saturday.  I think it will be a good thing for you to have a change but I am think Pounco will miss you but it will not hurt him. I am getting along well and felt as if I might go home when Albert goes to New York which will be next week.  He expects to leave Chicago Tuesday night and be in N.Y. Thursday morning. He does not know but hopes to go to Northampton. If he does will probably [ILLEGABLE] Sunday.

Last week I went to the [ILLEGABLE] with Rebecca.  One of her friends [ILLEGABLE] with a concierge and took me [ILLEGABLE]  and brought one back and one evening went to hear Prof. Willet lecture on Friday we went to lunch with Mrs. Hasfham and had a pleasant time. I went to church yesterday for the first time since I came here.

Amy is having a very bad cold and was in bed all day yesterday and Albert thinks she has a good deal of fever this morning but she seems much better then she did yesterday.

Rebecca is just as busy as ever [ILLEGABLE] go some where every day.  She is going on one of her speaking tours next week will be gone [ILLEGABLE] night. I had a letter from Cassie Smith last week which I must answer soon. I think she feels that Mrs. Parsons and Mrs. Marsh are both of them very feeble.

I [ILLEGABLE] John  did get the situation at Battle Creek as you said nothing about it.  It would of course be a disappointment but we do not what is best for us but there is one who does and it is well if we can leave all to him,  Remember me to John.

Yours affectionately

write often S.W. Reed


Here is the scanned copy if you want to try and pick out the other words. 

Family
Unknown
  • Charles
  • Mrs. Foobes
  • Old Ted, who I believe to be an animal
  • Auntie
  • Mary Wilson
  • Mrs. McCloud
  • Pounco, I'm thinking another animal
  • Prof. Willet
  • Mrs. Hasfham
  • Cassie Smith
  • Mrs. Parsons
  • Mrs. Marsh

Friday, December 30, 2022

Family Letters: Second letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to her daughter Lucy Amy Reed

Sarah Wheeler Sanders
Sarah Wheeler Sanders


Here is the second letter between Sarah Wheeler Sanders and Lucy Amy Reed I am transcribing.  AS I said, I have very little idea of what order these should be in so am transcribing them as I come across them.  

Tuesday Morning

My Dear Lillie

    I am very glad that you are feeling so well and like staying in Greenfield.  We are having cold weather as well as you.  Yesterday was very cold with snow squalls all day but this morning it is warmer and the sun shines a seems quite pleasant.  Rebecca left this morning for Rangley where I suppose she will speak this afternoon and she hopes to get back tonight. She has been making me a black silk shirt waist. It is not quite finished will be when the collier and belt are [ILLEGIBLE] 

    Sunday as you know was my birthday and R. gave me a very handsome black silk [ILLEGIBLE] with white [ILLEGIBLE] and black [ILLEGIBLE] and a belt buckle.

    She made a birthday [ILLEGIBLE] we had a nice dinner within [ILLEGIBLE] four layer the cake for desert.  The boys sent me [ILLEGIBLE] colliers one black silk embroidered with white and the other white muslin embroidered.

    Albert came home Saturday night did not think it best to go to Northampton although he wanted to.  Cousin Lucius is expected this week and would like me to go home with him. I do not know what I will do. Auntie thinks I had better go I am so near and Albert is inclined to think so to.

    I am feeling very well but do not [ILLEGIBLE] I could endure a great deal. They are very [ILLEGIBLE] of me I went to the city again Wednesday and had a pleasant time.  [ILLEGIBLE] went to [ILLEGIBLE] parties these days [ILLEGIBLE] but two are in the afternoon. She enjoys life always has everything on hand.

    Amy is well again and busy in school and [ILLEGIBLE] also.

    Auntie writes that aunt Mary Wilson is very [ILLEGIBLE] and Mrs. McCloud has been taken to Dickenson Hospital. I do not think she will ever be any better.  I shall be glad to go home when it is best but I am not disconsolate. 

    Remember me to John.

Yours with love

S.W. Reed

Here is the scanned copy of the letter. Gain, I would really appreciate anyone checking my work and seeing if they can identify any other words. Here are some things I can pick out from the letter:

  • Lucy is lining in Greenfield.  Not sure what state but possibly New Hampshire.
  • The boys mentioned are likely my Grandfather David Wright and Granduncle Edward Wright
  • Albert is Sarah's son, and Rebecca is his wife. 
  • I don't think Sarah is in Northampton when this was written.  She may be with Albert's family in Evenston, IL.
  • John is Lucy's Husband John Lawrence

Family
Unknown
  • Charles
  • Mrs. Foobes
  • Old Ted, who I believe to be an animal
  • Auntie
  • Mary Wilson
  • Mrs. McCloud


Wednesday, December 28, 2022

Family Letters: First letter from Sarah Wheeler Sanders to her daughter Lucy Amy Reed

Sarah Wheeler Sanders
Sarah Wheeler Sanders

I have a bunch of family letters that need to be transcribed which I have been putting off.  Many of them were sent from my 2nd Great Grandmother Sarah Wheeler Sanders to my Great Grandaunt Lucy Amy Reed.  Not all of these letters have dates so I may not get them in order.  Also, Sarah's hand writing can be a bit challenging.  I am doing my best with the transcriptions but there are a number of words I can't identify. I'll give a link to a scanned pdf with each post so you can give me suggestions.


 Sunday Afternoon

My dear Lillie,

    I have been looking for a letter from you for several days but [ILLEGIBLE] that you are busy and have not been fit to write.

    We heard [ILLEGIBLE] though [ILLEGIBLE] this last week.  We have been having beautiful weather the last week although rather dry and dusty but this morning it has rained and everything is looking finely. Cherry trees [ILLEGIBLE] and daffodils are in full bloom. The flowering almond that was [ILLEGIBLE] when you lived here has blossomed [ILLEGIBLE] full.

    I went to church this morning although was rather wet but it was communion day and I have not been to communion for some time and was anxious to go.  I'm united with the church on confession and [ILLEGIBLE] by letter.

    You was much on my mind this morning and I was wishing I might have the privilege of sitting with you at the table of our Lord. Will you not come?

    These May days bring our dear Charles last days to mind with [ILLEGIBLE]. We shall go to him but he will [ILLEGIBLE] no more to us. Dear boy.

    We had a letter from Evanston last week and they are all well and happy. R. seems to be just as busy as you with duties at home and [ILLEGIBLE]. She is a great woman I think [ILLEGIBLE].

    All well at the Wrights and all went to church this morning.  The boys sheep are at home [ILLEGIBLE] and Ned has twin lambs and David has one.

    They have measles and [ILLEGIBLE] in the school and [ILLEGIBLE] likely they may get them but I have had measles and I am glad.

    [ILLEGIBLE] had a letter from Mrs. Foobes to yesterday and I think they must be quite near you. As near as I can make out they are at Lockhaven N.H. 

    [ILLEGIBLE] the [ILLEGIBLE] is not very [ILLEGIBLE]. It is near a lake and I guess a summer rent.  I think you will receive a call sometime from [ILLEGIBLE] and her husband.  Old Ted is all right has a good apatite but is not as fat as in the winter. I [ILLEGIBLE] it is of no use to say I [ILLEGIBLE] have but hopes you will be able to sometime. 

Lovingly S.W. Reed

Here is the scanned image of the letter if you want to try and fill in the blanks.  Some items of note from what I can see:

  • It appears to have been written in May.
  • Ned is my Granduncle Edward Wright
  • David is my Grandfather David Wright
  • Given the Wright reference, Sarah was likely writing from Northampton, MA

Here is how everyone mentioned is related to me:


Family
Unknown
  • Charles
  • Mrs. Foobes
  • Old Ted, who I believe to be an animal

                                                                                          

Sunday, February 17, 2019

Biography of Lucy Amy Reed Sanders(1848-1918)

Lucy is my Second Great Aunt by birth and First Cousin, Three times removed, by adoption.

Lucy Amy Reed Sanders(1848-1918)
Birth: February 5th, 1848 in Whately, MA
Father: Benjamin Franklin Reed(1819-UNKN)
Mother: Sarah Wheeler Sanders(1823-1919)

Adopted Father: Albert David Sanders(1816-1862)
Adopted Mother: Jane Elizabeth Tileston(1820-1861)

Married: John Dresser Lawrence(1847-1907) on May 25th, 1870 in Northampton, MA

Children: None

Death:  1918 in Northampton, MA

Lucy Amy Reed was born on February 5th, 1848 in Whately, MA to Benjamin Franklin Reed and Sarah Wheeler Sanders.  She was the second of four children.  She was adopted by her uncle Albert David Sanders and his wife Jane Elizabeth Tileston soon after her birth and took the name Lucy Amy Sanders Reed..  She was living with her adopted parents in WIlliamsburg, MA in 1850.  The family adopted two more children, Eleanor and Everett Baxter between 1852 and 1855 and they are all living together in 1855 through 1861.  Lucy is sometimes refereed to as Lilly. On December 15th, 1861, Lucy's adopted mother, Jane, passed away of Consumption.  On October 8th, 1862, her adopted father, Albert David died of a fever.



Lucy was left at least $8,000 in the trust of Charles H. Allen of Boston, MA.  I am not sure what happened to her between the 1861 death of her adopted father and her marriage.  She may have stayed in the Northampton area or gone to live with Mr. Allen.  She married John Dresser Lawrence on MAy 25th, 1870 in Northampton, MA.  He was the son of Ithiel Lawrence and Mary Abigail Dresser of Castine, ME.  They start living together in Northampton, MA.  He is in Books and Stationary and has $2,000.  There is no mention of Lucy's money.   In 1873, John is listed as being an Auctioneer and the family is living on West Street.



By 1900, the couple has moved to 2 West St, Pittsfield, MA.  John is working as a Hotel Steward.  The census says that Lucy has lost 2 children though I have found no other record of them.  John dies on July 4th, 1907 in Northampton and Lucy has moved to live with her birth sister Jane, birth mother Sarah, Aunt Lucy and nephews by 1910 at 67 West St, Northampton, MA.  She moved to 23 Crafts Ave by 1915 and to 79 West Street by 1917.  Lucy died in 1918 and is buried with her husband in Bridge Street Cemetery, Northampton, MA.




Sources:
  • Massachusetts, Birth Records, 1840-1915: Name Lucy S Reed, Gender Female, Birth Date 5 Feb 1848, Birth Place Whately, Massachusetts, USA, Father Benj S Reed, Mother Sarah Reed
  • 1850 United States Federal Census: Year: 1850; Census Place: Williamsburg, Hampshire, Massachusetts; Roll: M432_320; Page: 157B; Image: 313
  • Massachusetts, State Census, 1855: Name Lilly Sanden, Gender Female, Birth Year abt 1848, Birth Place Massachusetts, Residence Williamsburg, Hampshire, Massachusetts, USA, Enumeration Year 1855, Age 7, Household Number 336, Reel Number 13, Volume Number 18
  • 1860 United States Federal Census: Year: 1860; Census Place: Williamsburg, Hampshire, Massachusetts; Roll: M653_505; Page: 756; Family History Library Film: 803505
  • Massachusetts, Marriage Records, 1840-1915: Name Lucy A R Sanders, Age 22, Birth Year abt 1848, Birth Place Whately, Marriage Date 25 May 1870, Marriage Place Northampton, Massachusetts, USA, Father B F Reed, Mother Sarah W Reed, Spouse, John D Lawrence
  • 1870 United States Federal Census: Year: 1870; Census Place: Northampton, Hampshire, Massachusetts; Roll: M593_621; Page: 306B; Image: 157; Family History Library Film: 552120
  • 1900 United States Federal Census: Year: 1900; Census Place: Pittsfield Ward 4, Berkshire, Massachusetts; Roll: 633; Page: 1A; Enumeration District: 0070; FHL microfilm: 1240633
  • 1910 United States Federal Census: Year: 1910; Census Place: Northampton Ward 2, Hampshire, Massachusetts; Roll: T624_593; Page: 2B; Enumeration District: 0698; FHL microfilm: 1374606
  • U.S. City Directories, 1821-1989: Name Lucy Lawrence, Gender Female, Residence Year 1915, Street Address 23 Crafts av, Residence Place Northampton; Easthampton, Massachusetts, USA, Spouse John Lawrence, Publication Title Northampton, Massachusetts, City Directory, 1915
  • U.S. City Directories, 1821-1989: Name Lucy Lawrence, Gender Female, Residence Year 1917, Street Address 79 West, Residence Place Northampton, Massachusetts, USA, Spouse John Lawrence, Publication Title Northampton, Massachusetts, City Directory, 1917
  • Massachusetts, Death Index, 1901-1980: Name Lucy Amy Lawrence, Death Date 1918, Death Place Northampton, Massachusetts, USA, Volume Number 90, Page number 381, Index Volume Number 70, Reference Number F63.M363 v.701918 - Northampton - 381 90
  • U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current: Name Lucy Amy Lawrence, Maiden Name Sanders, Birth Date 1848, Death Date 1918, Cemetery Bridge Street Cemetery, Burial or Cremation Place Northampton, Hampshire County, Massachusetts, United States of America, Has Bio?N, Spouse John Dresser Lawrence, URL https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/84295929

Monday, February 11, 2019

My analysis of Albert David Sanders will

So there is a lot to dissect from the will.

It was written in January of 1862, a month after the death of his wife.  He died in the following October.

Here is a breakdown of who he gave money too and how much.

Name
Amount
Value in 2019 Dollars
Reason
David Sanders
$1,000
$25,000
Father
Amy W Sanders
$1,000
$25,000
Mother
Eleanor Baxter Sanders
$8,000
$201,000
Adopted Daughter
Lucy A. Reed Sanders
$8,000
$201,000
Adopted Daughter, daughter of Sarah Wheeler Sanders
Everett Baxter Sanders
$8,000
$201,000
Adopted Son
Lucy S. Sanderson
$5,000
$126,000
Sister
Sarah W. Sanders
$5,000
$126,000
Sister
Jane Caroline Reed
$1,000
$25,000
Niece
Albert David Sanders
$1,000
$25,000
Nephew
Henry L. Tileston
$1,000
$25,000
Brother-in-law
Children of Henry L. Tileston
$1,000
$25,000
Brother-in-Law's children, the $1,00 is split among them.
Haydenville School District
$5,000
$126,000
Setting up a trust to support the school district
Haydenville Church Society
$5,000
$126,000
Setting up a trust to support the church society
American Board of Commissioners of Foreign Missions
$5,000
$126,000
Donation
American Home Mission Society
$5,000
$126,000
Donation
American Tract Society, Boston
$2,000
$50,000
Donation
American Tract Society, New York
$2,000
$50,000
Donation




Total
$64,000
$1,600,000


So, if all of the will paid out it would have been worth $64,000.  That translates to $1,600,000 in 2019 dollars.  He made sure to cover his parents, adopted children and sisters.  He then tried to cover the rest of the family.  There is some interesting twists on school district.  He was definitely interested in covering the village of Haydenville.  This was where his factory was located.  

The will also shows what happened to Sarah Wheeler Sanders' daughter Lucy Amy Reed.  It looks like Albert and his wife adopted her after she was born.  The family story of Albert adopting Sarah's son Albert David Sanders doesn't appear to be true, because he calls him his nephew.  

There are about 705 pages to the probate record available online.  I suspect there is a lot of valuable information in there but it is hard to dig through it.  I might dig in deeper in the future.


Note: The value calculations where done on the Measuring Worth website



Sunday, February 10, 2019

The Last Will and Testament of Albert David Sanders

Albert David Sanders
My 3rd Great Uncle Albert David Sanders was a benefactor to the Sanders and down through the Wright Family.  We are still seeing the effects of his life down to my generation.  For instance, I have a pair of chairs that have been passed down through my mother that came from his estate.  I've transcribed (to the best of my ability) his will.  It gives us some clues to the complex Sanders story.  Section 4 is a bit confusion and I think there is a part missing.  I also think there is misplaced text.

I'll evaluate what is in the will in the next post and then work on his biography.

Know all persons by these present that I Albert D. Sanders of Williamsburgh in the Country of Hampshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts being in good health and of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this last will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills by me at any time heretofore made.


First, my will is that my just debts and funeral expenses, the expense of my last sickness, of preparing, adorning and protecting my cemetery lot as my executors shall see fit, and of erecting thereon such monument as they shall think suitable, shall be first paid out of my estate. I appoint Charles H. Allen of Boston, and Samuel L. Spaulding of Northampton executors of this will.


Second, I give and bequeath to my father David Sanders his executors administrators and assigns One Thousand Dollars and to my Mother Amy W. Sanders her executors administrators and assigns One Thousand Dollars.


Third, I give and bequeath to my adopted daughter Eleanor Baxter, now called Eleanor Baxter Sanders, Eight Thousand Dollars, to have and to hold the same to her, her executors administrators and assigns, to her sole and separate use free from the interference and control of any husband.


Fourth, I give and bequeath to Charles H. Allen of Boston his executors administrators and assigns Eight Thousand Dollars in special trust and confidence however that he the said Charles H. will invest the said sum at legal interest simply secured by mortgage of real estate, that he will apply such part of the income or principle as may be necessary for the education and maintenance of my adopted daughter Lucy A. Reed now called Lucy A. Reed Sanders until she shale arrive at the age of twenty one years and that he will, on her arrival at that age, assign and transfer to her the whole or remaining part of said sum of Eight Thousand Dollars and all the accumulations, evidences, and securities therefor, to have and to hold the same to her, her executors administrators and assigns to her sole and separate use free from the interference or control of any husband.


Fifth, I give and bequeath to John Payson Williston of Northampton his executors administrators and assigns, Eight Thousand Dollars in trust for the use and benefit of my adopted son Everett Baxter now called Everett Baxter Sanders, and in the full trust and confidence that he the said John P. Williston will apply and pay over so much of the income and principal of said sum, even to the whole amount thereof as may, at any time during the life of the said Everett, be necessary for his education or maintenance is to advance him in any lawful and honorable profession, business is prussuint in life; and I do hereby give the said John P. full power and the largest discretion to apply and pay over the whole or a part of said income or principal at one time or from time to time, to or for the said Everett, as the said John P. may judge for the best interest of said Everett, and until such application or payment it is my wish that he keep the said sum invested in such manner that he shall think safe and profitable. If the said Everett shall decease without having received the whole of said sum and the income therefor, then the said John P. shall pay over the remaining part, if any, of said sum and income to child or children and the issue of any deceased child of the said Everett, to be equally divided between such children, if more then one, and the issue by right of separation, living at the time of his decease. And if the siad Everett shall leave no issue having at the time of his decrease, then the said John P. shall pay over such remaining part if said income and principal in equal shares, one half to my said adopted daughter Eleanor Baxter Sanders her executors administrators and assigns fore from the inheritance or control of any husband and the other half to the said Charles H. Allen, in the trust for my adopted daughter Lucy A. Reed Sanders as provided in the Fourth Article of this will if she shall not then be of the age of twenty one years, but if she shall then have attained that age, the said John P. shall pay the said other half of such remaining part of said sum and principal to the said Lucy A. Reed Sanders her executors administrators and assigns free from the interference or control of any husband.


Sixth, I give and bequeath to my sister, Mrs. Lucy S. Sanderson her executors administrators and assigns Five Thousand Dollars, to her sole and separate use free from the interference or control of any husband and to my sister Mrs. Sarah W. Reed her executor, administrators and assigns Five Thousand Dollars to hr sole and separate use free from the interference or control of any husband.


Seventh, After payment of the legacies given in the preceding articles of this will which are to be preferred to those hereafter given, I give to the said Charles A Allen the sum of Two Thousand Dollars in trust for the equal use and benefit of my niece Jane Caroline Reed, and my nephew Albert Reed, both of Whately and in the special trust and confidence that said Charles H. will invest the said sum at legal interest amply secured by mortgage of real estate and that he will in the exercise of his discretion and if in his judgement it shall be necessary apply the whole or any part of One Thousand Dollars and the interest there  _______ principal sum of Five Thousand Dollars and to the intent there shall be three competent and fit persons to execute this trust, my will is that anyone or two of the trustees above named in the article, accepting, acting or remaining in said Williamsburg ___________
Thousand Dollars and the income thereof to her sole and separate use free from the interferference or control of any husband, and that he will in his discretion, apply One Thousand Dollars and the income thereof, in any portion of said sum and income to and for the maintenance and education of said Albert Reed until shall attain the age of twenty one years, and that he the said charles H. will then pay to the said Albert his executors administrators and assigns, the whole or the remaining part, if any, of the said One Thousand Dollars and income.


Eight, I give I give to my brother-in-law Henry L. Tileston his executors administrators and assigns One Thousand Dollars, and to his children to be equally divided between them, their executors administrators and assigns One Thousand Dollars. I give to my cousin Caroline Allen wife of said Charles H. Allen, her executors administrators and assigns, to her sole and separate use One Thousand Dollars.


Ninth,  I give to Joel Hayden, Elam Graves, and William M. Trow all of Williamsburg, and the survivors and successors of them, their executors administrators and assigns, Five Thousand Dollars, in trust for the Haydenville School DIstrict being school district numbered 3 in the present division of school districts in Williamsburg and for the purposes of education in said district as the same is now bounded. Whether it shall be included or not hereafter in any division of said districts or not, in any new division thereof; andin the special trust and confidence that the said Hayden, Graves and Trow will securely ad properly according to their best judgement invest the said sum, that they will annually pay over to and for the said district and for the purpose of promoting education therein the increase of said sum, and that they will for the same object, if in their judgement it shall be necessary apply and pay over, at any one time or from time to time, the whole or any part of said principle sum of FIve Thousand Dollars and to the intent that there shall alway be three competent and fit persons to execute this trust, my will is that anyone in two of the trustees above named in this article,accepting,acting, or remaining in said Williamsburg or surviving, shall appoint a substitute or substitutes for any one or two of them, not accepting, neglecting or refusing to act, removing from said Williamsburg or not living, such appointment to be confirmed by the Judge of Probate for the said County of Hampshire, and a vacancy in the said board of trustees which shall hereafter at any tie occur from any of the causes above enumerated, specified, shall be filled in this manner.


Tenth, I give to Joel Hayden, Elam Graves, and William Trow aforesaid, and to the survivor and survivors of them their executors administrators and assigns Five Thousand Dollars in trust for the sole use and benefit of the Haydenville Church Society, and in  the special trust and confidence, that said Hayden, Graves, and Trow will according to their judgement, safely and profitably invest the said sum, and pay over annually to the said Society to preserve and promote therein and thereby the ordinances and influences of Christianity, the income of said sum, and that they the said trustees, if in their judgement the welfare and objects of said Society require it, will at any time and from time to time pay over to the same the whole or any part of the said principle sum of Five Thousand Dollars. In case of vacancy or vacancies in said board of trustees at any time hereafter, from refusal or neglect to accept, or act in this trust, resignation, removal from said Williamsburg, or death, the one or two not thus disqualified shall fill the vacancy or vacancies subject to the confirmation of the Court of PRobate as provided in the ninth article of the intent there shall always be those suitable persons to execute the trust of this article of this will.


Eleventh, I give to the American Board of Commissioners of Foreign Missions, their successors and assigns, Five Thousand Dollars; to the American Home Mission Society their successors and assigns, Five Thousand Dollars; to the American Tract Society their successors and assigns, BOston, Two Thousand Dollars, to the American Tract Society, New York, their successors and assigns, Two Thousand Dollars


Twelfth, Of all the residue of my estate real personal and mixed which I shall own at the time of my decease I give and devise One Fifth part to my sister Mrs. Lucy S. Sanderson her heirs executors administrators and assigns free from the interference or control of any husband.  One Fifth part of said residue, I give and devise to my sister Mrs. Sarah W. Reed, her heirs executors administrators and assigns free from the interference or control of any husband. I give and devise One Fifth part of said residue to my adopted daughter Eleanor Baxter Sanders, her heirs executors administrators and assigns free from the interference or control of any husband.  I give and devise One Fifth part of said residue to said Charles H. Allen his heirs executors administrators and assigns in trust for my adopted daughter Lucy A. Reed Sanders her heirs executors administrators and assigns free from the interference or control of any husband and in the special trust that he will faithfully invest and reinvest the said Fifth part and convey apply and pay over the principal and income thereof before and at the time she shall attain the age of twenty one years as is provided in respect to the fund given in trust for her in the Fourth article of this will.  I give and devise One Fifth part of said residue to the said John Payson Willington his heirs executors administrators and assigns in trust for my adopted son the said Everett Baxter Sanders his executors administrators and assigns, he the said Willington to have full power and discretion to invest convey, deliver apply and pay over the whole or any part of the said One Fifth or the income thereof at any time or times to and for the said Everett, as is provided in respect to the fund given interest for him in the Fifth article of this will, the remainder of said fifth part and income not applied for the benefit of said Everett in his lifetime shall be dispensed of as is provided in reflect to the fund given in the said Fifth article upon the contingencies therein named.


Thirteenth, I hereby modify and change the ninth article of this will as follows: if there shall be a division of said district numbered 3, that section of it lying above the Old Brick School House, towards williamsburg shall not participate in the legacy given in said article, it being my intention that the sum shall go specifically support the schools in the centre of the village of Haydenville. If my parents or either of them shall not survive me the legacies given in the second article of this will, shall lapse into the residue of my estate. In testimony whereof all examses and intermediaries having been first made I hereunto set my hand and seal and publish and declare this to be my last will and testament in presence of the interests named below this fifteenth day of January in the year Eighteen Hundred and Sixty Two.

Albert D. Sanders Signature