Person Page - 2

     Lena B. Bricker was born on 14 December 1880 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. She was the daughter of William Henry Bricker and Ella Landis.⁶ ; Lena and Roy. In the census of 22 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter of William Bricker. She is 19 years old and was born in Ohio, December 1880.⁷ ; Will and Lena.

     Lena B. Bricker married William Ray Grier on 2 July 1901 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. They were married at the residence of the bride's parents, two miles north of town, by Rev. A.M. Smith and only a few of the imtimate relatives were present. The newly wedded left for Chicago July 3 and when they returned they resided on East High Street.³

     Between 1902 and 1912, William and Lena moved with their family to Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio.⁸ On 9 April 1905 their son, Wendel Arden Grier, was born.⁹ Their second child, Kathleen Leone, was born on 17 January 1909 in Ohio.⁹ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Carryall Township, Paulding County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of William Gravis. Her name appears as Lena Gravis. She is 29 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents. She has been married for nine years and is the mother of two children, both living.¹⁰

     In February 1912, William and Lena moved with their family to Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.⁸ She survived the death of her husband, William Ray Grier, who died on 22 October 1913 in Muncie, Indiana.³

     After the death of her husband, Lena's father wanted her to come back to Hicksville. She came back for only one year before moving to Fort Wayne. She said that everyone was too nice to her and she needed to be on her own. She bought a very large house at 525 Home Avenue in Fort Wayne. It was an apartment house and she could rent out rooms. Eventually Kathleen and her family moved in and they took over the first and second floors and Lena kept an apartment on the third floor. Around 1945 - 6, a hospital purchased the house, had it torn down and built nursing homes at the site. They all moved to Cresant Avenue, where Lena still kept her own apartment with her own entrance.

     Lena was a beautiful seamstress. She unsed to make little outfits. made baby dresses, one for each day. She would work in the morning and then visited in the afternoon. Nancy Johnson still owns the "afternoon dresses", but in 2005 said that they were getting into bad shape. Lena never told her age. She related to younger people and hated to give her age, because then she would be treated like an old lady. They lived just two doors away for a dancehall and Lena would fall sleep listenting to the dance hall music.¹¹

     Daisy lived in the house with Lena Grier, after Lena's husband died. Lena had a dumb waiter put in the house when Daisy moved in. So that she could cook in the basement and then send the food up. Daisy Bricker was very sweet.¹¹ ; by car. In the census of 6 January 1920 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, Lena Grier, shown as Lena Grier, appeared as a head of household which included, her son, Wendell Grier, her daughter, Kathleen Grier, her brother, Forrest Bricker She is 37 years old and owns a farm. The rest of the information on the census is unclear.¹² Lena B. Grier was living at Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, at the death of her mother, Ella Bricker, on 16 April 1926. She survived the death of her father, William Henry Bricker, who died on 8 May 1929. In the census of 8 April 1930 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, Lena B. Grier, shown as Lena B. Grier, appears as a head of household which include, her son, Wendell A. Grier, her daughter, Kathleen L. Grier . She is 49 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents. She is shown as a widow, who owns her own home valued at $10,000. The household also owns a radio. There is no occupation listed. Also living in this household is Harry Glagier, shown as a lodge, age 52, single, and was born in Russia, as were his parents. He is working as an antique dealer.¹³ In the census of 8 April 1930 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, she is listed as the daughter of an unknown person . Her name appears as Wendell A. Grier. He is 24 years old, single, and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. He is working as a mechanice in the auto-truck industry.¹³ In the census of 8 April 1930 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, she is listed as the daughter of an unknown person . Her name appears as Kathleen L. Grier. She is 20 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents. She is working as a stenographer in the automovbile industry.¹³ ; Forrest, Lena, and Roy. ; Lena and Wendell.

     Lena B. Bricker died in August 1968 at age 87; Died at age 87. She knew just how she wanted to look at his burial. She had kept a picture of how she wanted her hair to look and even had a second pair of glases in case she was in an accident. She wore a red dress.¹⁴ She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.

     William Ray Grier was born on 6 February 1881 in Milford Township, Defiance County, Ohio.³ ; young man. ; Will and Lena.

     William Ray Grier married Lena B. Bricker, daughter of William Henry Bricker and Ella Landis, on 2 July 1901 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. They were married at the residence of the bride's parents, two miles north of town, by Rev. A.M. Smith and only a few of the imtimate relatives were present. The newly wedded left for Chicago July 3 and when they returned they resided on East High Street.³ ; Roy Bricker and Will Grier.

     Between 1902 and 1912, William and Lena moved with their family to Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio.⁴ On 9 April 1905 their son, Wendel Arden Grier, was born.⁵ Their second child, Kathleen Leone, was born on 17 January 1909 in Ohio.⁵ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Carryall Township, Paulding County, Ohio, William Ray Grier, shown as William Gravis, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Lena Gravis, his son, Wendal Gravis, his daughter, Catharine Gravis . He is 29 years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. He has been married for nine years and is working as a proprietor at a meat market.⁶ ; will with suitcase.

     In February 1912, William and Lena moved with their family to Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.⁴ In 1913, William was working as an employee for Agricultural Correspondence School of Ft. Wayne..⁴

     William Ray Grier died on 22 October 1913 in Muncie, Indiana, at age 32. He was on a business trip when he die. He had a job with Pollock, who had courses in agriculture and new farming methods. He was coming home on the inter-urban train, when the conductor had been drinking. Whiskey was involved. The train was going to fast. Mr. Pollock hired a lawyer to interview everyone. William Grier loved his family very much. He would bring home jelly beans. Kathleen and Wendel would scramble for the black ones.^3,7 He was survived by his daughter, Kathleen, his son Wendel, and his wife Lena.³ He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. The funeral was conducted from the United Brethren church at 10:30am, by Reb. Addison E. Davis, assisted by Revs. Hall and Stockham.³

     OBITUARY: "Wm. Ray Grier was born in Milford township, Defiance county, Feb. 6, 1881, and met the death messenger near Muncie, Ind., Oct. 22, 1913, at 6:30 p.m., aged thirty-two years, serven months and sixteen days.

     He was educated in the public schools of Hicksville. he was converted and joined the United Brethren church in 1901. He was married to Miss Lena Bricker, July 2, 1901. To them were born, two beautiful children, Wendel Arden, aged eight and Katherine Leone, aged four. They will be a great comfort to the mother since husband has gone to be with the Master.

     They began housekeeping in Hicksville, afterwards removing to Antwerp, Ohio, and in Feb. 1912 located in Ft. Wayne, Ind. He was employed by the Agricultural Correspondence School of Ft. Wayne, and was on a business trip at the time of his sudden call. He loved his home, his wife, and his children with rare devotion and when his work was done hastened to enjoy its hallowed assoications. His greatest delight in the church was in the music and he was a member of several male quartets at vaious times. He was also a member of the Masonic Order of Antwerp.

     He leaves father, mother, wife, two children, and a host of friends to regret his early departure untimely as all time and eternity are God's eternal now. He would not call his summons an accident, for God forsees and provides against all contingencies.

     "He knoweth the way that I take." The funeral was largely attended from the United Brethren church at Hicksville on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 26, at 1:30, conducted by Rev. G. F. Byrer of Ft. Wayne, Ind., assisted by Rev. Addison F. Davis.³

     Roy L. Bricker was also known as Roy B. Bricker.⁶

     Roy L. Bricker was born on 10 August 1882 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.^6,7,8 He was the son of William Henry Bricker and Ella Landis.⁵ ; Lena and Roy. In the census of 22 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of William Bricker. He is 17 years old and was born in Ohio, August 1882.⁹ ; Roy Bricker and Will Grier.

     Roy L. Bricker married Frances Alma Carr on 22 October 1903.¹⁰ In the census of 27 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, Roy L. Bricker, shown as Roy L. Bricker, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Frances Alma Carr . He is 27 years old and has been married for six years. He was born in Ohio, as were his parents. He is working as a farmer.¹¹ Roy L. Bricker was living in 1917 at Morgan County, Colorado.⁸ In the census of 10 January 1920 in Fort Morgan, Morgan County, Colorado, Roy L. Bricker, shown as Roy L. Bricker, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Frances A. Bricker, his sons, John Wm. Bricker, his daughter, Margarite E. Bricker . He is 37 years old and was born in Ohio.¹² Roy L. Bricker was living in Wauseon, Fulton County, Ohio, when his mother, Ella Bricker, died on 16 April 1926.⁵ He survived the death of his father, William Henry Bricker, who died on 8 May 1929. In the census of 9 April 1930 in Clinton, Fulton County, Ohio, Roy L. Bricker, shown as Roy L. Bricker, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Frances Alma Bricker, his sons, John W. Bricker, his daughter, Margaret E. Bricker . He is 47 years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. He is working as a dairy farmer, rents his farm, and owns a radio. He is shown as being 21 years old at his first marriage.²

     Roy went out to the Bricker homestead in Colorado. The homestead was already settled. He also had a diary farm in Hicksville before Colorado. They would have family reunions at this diary farm in the summer since they always needed to be around for milking. He was ill for 12 years before dying and was bed ridden part of the time. His wife, Francis took good care of him.¹³ ; Roy and Frances' 50th Anniversary with their children and their spouses.

     Roy L. Bricker died on 22 February 1971 at age 88.^7,14 He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹⁵

     Harold A. Bricker was born on 25 May 1889 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.^5,6 He was the son of William Henry Bricker and Ella Landis.⁴ ; young man. In the census of 22 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of William Bricker. His name appears as Harold Bricker. He is 11 years old and was born in Ohio, May 1888. His parents were also born in Ohio.⁷

     Harold A. Bricker married Nola May Klinger in 1910. In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of William H. Bricker. His name appears as Herald Bricker. He is 20 years old, married and was born in Ohio, as were his parents.⁸ In the census of 3 January 1920 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, Harold A. Bricker, shown as Harold Bricker, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Nola Bricker . He is 30 years old, a marmer, married and was born in Ohio.⁹ Harold A. Bricker was living in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, at the death of his mother, Ella Bricker, on 16 April 1926.² He survived the death of his father, William Henry Bricker, who died on 8 May 1929.

     When his mother died, he got the house. Everything in the house was sold in an auction. Everyone in the family gathered in one room and sold the house to Harold for $1.00. Lena remembers that it was very unsetting and felt that no one had respect for the things in the house that were being sold. Lean and the relatives she came with, did not buy anything.¹⁰ ; Harold and Nola. In the census of 11 April 1930 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, Harold A. Bricker, shown as Harold Bricker, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Nola Bricker . He is 41 years old and was first arriedat the age of 20. He was born in Ohio, as were his parents. He is working as a cashier in a bank. Also living in his household are three roomers, Ivan Agates, age 26, Lucile Agates, age 20, and Keith Agats, age 11 months.¹¹

     Harold A. Bricker's second wife was Helen Jones. They married on 4 May 1933.¹²

     Harold A. Bricker died in 1951.⁶ He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.⁶ ; gravestones.

     Nola May Klinger was born in 1888 in Ohio.^2,3

     Nola May Klinger married Harold A. Bricker, son of William Henry Bricker and Ella Landis, in 1910. In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter-in-law of William H. Bricker. Her name appears as Nola May Bricker. She is 21 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents. She is married and does not have any children.⁴ In the census of 3 January 1920 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of Harold A. Bricker. Her name appears as Nola Bricker. She is 31 years old, married and was born in Ohio, as were her parents.⁵ ; Harold and Nola. In the census of 11 April 1930 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of Harold A. Bricker. Her name appears as Nola Bricker. She is 41 years old and was first married at the age of 20. She was born in Ohio, as were her parents.⁶

     Nola May Klinger died on 19 July 1932 in Defiance County, Ohio; She is remembered as being very nice, wonderful.^3,7,8 She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.³

     Kathleen Leone Grier was born on 17 January 1909 in Ohio.¹ She was the daughter of William Ray Grier and Lena B. Bricker.¹ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Carryall Township, Paulding County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter of William Gravis. Her name appears as Catherine Gravis. She is one and a half years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents.² In February 1912, Kathleen Leone Grier moved with her parents to Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.³ She survived the death of her father, William Ray Grier, who died on 22 October 1913 in Muncie, Indiana.⁴ ; Wendell and Kathleen. ; by car. In the census of 6 January 1920 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, she is listed as the daughter of Lena Grier. Her name appears as Kathleen Grier. She is 10 years old and single. The rest of the information on the census is unclear.⁵ In the census of 8 April 1930 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, she is listed as the daughter of Lena B. Grier. Her name appears as Kathleen L. Grier. She is 20 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents. She is working as a stenographer in the automovbile industry.⁶

     Kathleen Leone Grier married Kenneth Fritz Burris, son of Henry Burris and Bertha Clay, on 1 September 1932 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.^7,8

     Kathleen Leone Grier died on 1 March 1990 at age 81.^8,9

     OBITUARY: Kathleen L. Burris, 81, died Thursday at home. The Antwerp, Ohio, native was a member of Trinity English Lutheran Church and its Women's Prayer Group and Pi Chaptr of Psi Iota Xi. Her husband, Kenneth, died in 1967. Surviving are daughter nancy Johnson of Evanston, Ill; son Robert of Fremont; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Services are 10 a.m. Monday in the Trinity English Lutheran Church. Calling is noon to 5 p.m. tomorrow in Klaehn's Wayne Street Chapel, 420 W. Wayne St., whre a Psi Iota Ximemorial service will be held at 4:30 p.m. Burial will be in Forest Home Cemetery, Hicksville, Ohio. Preferred memrials are gifts to Trinity English Lutheran Church Foundation, Golden Years Memorial Fund, or Psi Iota Xi Memorial Fund.⁸ She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in.

     Kenneth Fritz Burris was born on 31 December 1899 in Van Buren County, Indiana.¹ He was the son of Henry Burris and Bertha Clay.¹

     Kenneth Fritz Burris married Kathleen Leone Grier, daughter of William Ray Grier and Lena B. Bricker, on 1 September 1932 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.^1,2

     Ken and Kathleen Burris had a cabin in Mac Gregory Bay, Canada with another couple the Muellers. It was on an island, so one had to go in on the mail boat. They enjoyed fishing for pike and bass and picking wild blueberries. There was no running water and they cooked on a wood stove. They really enjoyed their visits there.³

     Kenneth Fritz Burris died on 29 September 1967 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, at age 67. He grew up on a farm near Hicksville and his family moved into town later. He played in a band. He played the clarinet and the saxaphone. When he went into the US Army during World War I, he was in the band. He went to the University of Akron, didn't graduate, but worked for an architect in Ft. Wayne. His next job was with S. F. Bowser Co., working as a draftsman. His future wife, Kathleen, worked in the office at Bowsers and that is where they met. In 1936 he was transfered to Detroit with Bowsers. He had been selling for them in Ohio, but now his territory was Michigan. During World War II, he worked for the Air Force in Detroit.^1,2,3 He is buried in an unknown cemetery in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹

     Henry Burris married Bertha Clay in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.

     Bertha Clay married Henry Burris in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.

     Robert Kenneth Burris was born on 15 December 1938 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.¹ He was the son of Kenneth Fritz Burris and Kathleen Leone Grier.¹

     Robert Kenneth Burris married Alice Ann Drage, daughter of Harold Drage and Clover Bright, before 1964.¹ Robert Kenneth Burris is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in.

     Alice Ann Drage was born on 10 May 1939 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana.² She was the daughter of Harold Drage and Clover Bright.^2,1

     Alice Ann Drage married Robert Kenneth Burris, son of Kenneth Fritz Burris and Kathleen Leone Grier, before 1964.¹

     Alice Ann Drage died on 10 December 2006 in Auburn, DeKalb County, Indiana, at age 67.²

     OBITUARY: ALICE ANN BURRIS, 67, of Auburn, died Sunday, Dec. 10, 2006, at Dekalb Memorial Hospital. Born May 10, 1939, in Fort Wayne, she was a Registered Nurse. She was a member of Clear Lake Lutheran Church, the church choir, and the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Chorus; and was a 1960 graduate of Parkview School of Nursing. Surviving are her husband, Robert K; sons, David M. (Dawn) Burris of Waterloo and Brent A. (Nancy) Burris of Auburn; grandchildren, Malorie, Grace, Madison, Jacob, Graham, Mary, Daniel and Luke Burris; sisters, Rebecca J. (James) Miller of Fort Wayne and Janet S. (Michael) Lewinski of Auburn; and sister-in-law, Nancy K. Johnson of Madison, Wis. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Clover (Bright) Drage. Funeral service is 11:30 a.m. Thursday at Clear Lake Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, Ind., with visitation one hour prior to service. Visitation also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Road. Burial in Clear Lake Lutheran Church Cemetery, Clear Lake, Ind. Preferred memorials to Learning & Development Center at Trinity English Lutheran Church or Clear Lake Lutheran Church.² She is buried in the Clear Lake Lutheran Church Cemtery located in Clear Lake, Steuben County, Indiana.²

     Albert James Richards II was born on 17 June 1892 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^1,5,6,7,8 He was the son of Albert James Richards and Kate Elmira Conner.^2,3,4 In the census of 16 June 1900 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, he is listed as the son of Albert J. Richards. Albert is seven years old and was born June 1892 in Michigan.⁹ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, he is listed as the son of Albert J. Richards. His name appears as Albert J. Richards Jr.. He is 17, single, and working in a store. He was born in Michigan.¹⁰ At age 18, Albert James Richards II survived the death of his father, Albert James Richards, who died on 7 January 1911 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.³

      Albert James Richards II is a veteran of the World War I. He served as 1st Lt. in the Dental Corps, U. S. Army.¹¹ ; Albert J. Richards in uniform. Circa 1918, Albert graduated from the University of Michigan Dental School, Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, Michigan.¹² In the census of 5 January 1920 in Wayne County, Michigan, Albert appears in the household of Kate Richards as Albert J. Richards. He is 27 years old, single and working as a dentist.¹³

     Albert James Richards II married Agnes Eloise Carter, daughter of John Gilbert Carter and Agnes Eloise Cross, on 9 August 1921 in Jonesville, Hillsdale County, Michigan. They were married at Grace Episcopal Church, one of the oldest framed church in the state of Michigan. It is a combination of Greek and Gothic structure and was erected in 1844. Agnes and Albert met on a double date. Agnes tells of Al secretly passing a note under the table asking her if she would go out with him.^2,14,15,16 On 28 March 1923 their son, Albert James Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.¹⁷ ; Al, Agnes, Jim, and Bob. ; Al and Agnes.

     Albert James Richards II was listed as the head of household on the 1930 Census recorded 11 April 1930 at Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Also living in the household were his wife, Agnes Richards, his sons, Albert James Richards . He is 37 years old, working as a dentist in his own office and living at 16201 Warrick Road. He owns his home and it is valued at $18,000. His household owns a radio set and Albert is a Veteran of the World War.¹⁸

     As a dentist, Albert was hard working, working six days a week most of his life. During the depression, patients who didn't have the cash would given him household items in payment for services. The family still has a mirror and an oil painting received in those days. He specialized in denture prodontics. Al was a jolly fellow; he did a fine imitation of W. C. Fields. His patients loved him; when he retired they gave him a retirement dinner. That was very appropriate because both Agnes and Al loved to eat. They planned trips around meals. For holidays, all five kids would get together. They would rotate houses and have a ball. They would see each other, at least twice a year. When he retired, he would follow Agnes around. She finally made him join the men's club. Agnes would drop him off. He had lots of nervous energy.^19,20,21,22 ; Richards - siblings and spouses.²³ ; Al and Agnes' house on Radnor Circle, Grosse Pointe, Michigan. ; Al an Agnes, with grandkids.

     Albert Richards was a Detroit dentist for more than 50 years with offices in the David Whitney Bldg. He was a member of the American Dental Associate, the Michigan State Dental Society, and the Detroit District Dental Society. He was a life diplomat of the American Board of Prosthodontics, a life fellow of the American College of Dentists, the Delta Sigma Delta Dental fraternity, the American Prosthodontics Society, past director and life member of the Detroit District Dental Club, a retired Staff member of Harper Hospital and former consultant at Fort Custer VA hospital. He was a member of the Grosse Pointe Memorial Church, the Senior Men's Club of Grosse Pointe, and a life member of the Detroit Yacht Club.²⁴

     Albert James Richards II died on 5 June 1968 in Harper Hospital, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, at age 75. Earlier in year, Al had talked Agnes into buying a condominium in Fort Lauderdale. She didn't want to move because she preferred Michigan's cold to Florida's heat, but Al prevailed. While in Florida settling the final details, Al became very ill and they were forced to return to Detroit. Al died a few weeks later and Agnes sold the condominium.^2,12,25,20 He was survived by his wife, Agnes, two sons, Dr. A. James Richards and Dr. Robert D. Richards; nine grandchildren, and three sisters, Mrs. Herbert Munro, Mrs. Ralph Garber and Mrs. Gilbert Purse.¹² He is buried in the Woodlawn Cemetery located in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Services were held at the Verheyden Funeral Home given by Rev. Richard W. Mitchell.^12,25,5

     OBITUARY: Richards - January 7, at his late residence, 452 Trumbull avenue, Albert J. Richards, beloved husband of Kate E. and father of Annabelle, Albert, Jr., Helen, Marguerite and David. Funeral from residence Monday at 2 p.m.¹²

     Agnes Eloise Carter was born on 28 March 1898 in Elmspring, Washington County, Arkansas.^2,3 She was the daughter of John Gilbert Carter and Agnes Eloise Cross.¹ Agnes Eloise Carter survived the death of her mother, Agnes Eloise Carter, who died on 8 November 1899 in Davis, South Dakota.

     She was only one and a half when her mother died and her father was then left with four children; Ruth, Charlie, Lorna (who died at a young age) and Agnes. Grandmother and Grandfather Carter kept the three older children, but Great Aunt Lilla wanted Agnes, the baby. Agnes was brought to Michigan where she was adopted by Daniel and Lilla Culver. Not much is known of her girlhood, other than that she attended "finishing school".^4,5 In the census of 6 June 1900 in Scipio Township, Hillsdale County, Michigan, she is listed as the adopted daughter of Daniel Culver. Her name appears as Aggie Culver. She is two years old and was born in Arkansas. Her father birth location is given as New York and her mother's as Michigan.⁶ Agnes Carter survived the death of her adopted father, Daniel Franklin Culver, who died on 8 January 1902. In the census of 23 April 1910 in Scipio Township, Hillsdale County, Michigan, she is listed as the adopted daughter of Lilla Culver. She is 12 years old and was born in Arkansas. Her father's birth location is given as US and her mother's as Michigan. Her brother, Charles, is also living in this household.⁷ ; Ruth and Agnes.

     Her biological father, John Gilbert Carter, used to come to see her, but Agnes said she never really knew him. Her father and her siblings lived in Mississippi, so she seldom saw them; but, through the years, she did keep in touch with her older sister, Ruth, who taught in a one room schoolhouse on the prairies of North Dakota. Ruth was the heronine of Losi Lenski's book for children, Prairie School.^4,5 ; graduation.

      Agnes Eloise Carter appears on the census on 6 January 1920 at Wayne County, Michigan, as Agnes Culver. She is living as a boarder at 1031 Cass Ave. She is 21 years old and working as a saleslady at a retail dry goods store. Her birth location is listed as Arkansas, her father' birth location is given as the US and her mother's as South Dakota. The head of the household is Blanch Shadrack, age 32, and enumberated with her are her two sons and 14 boarders, including Agnes..⁸

     Agnes Eloise Carter married Albert James Richards II, son of Albert James Richards and Kate Elmira Conner, on 9 August 1921 in Jonesville, Hillsdale County, Michigan. They were married at Grace Episcopal Church, one of the oldest framed church in the state of Michigan. It is a combination of Greek and Gothic structure and was erected in 1844. Agnes and Albert met on a double date. Agnes tells of Al secretly passing a note under the table asking her if she would go out with him.^9,10,11,4 On 28 March 1923 their son, Albert James Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.¹²

      Agnes Eloise Carter survived the death of her adopted mother, Lilla Culver, who died on 14 April 1928 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.¹⁰ ; Al and Agnes. In the census of 11 April 1930 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the wife of Albert J. Richards. Her name appears as Agnes Richards. She is 32 years old and was first married at age 24. She is the mother of two children and both are still living. Her birth location is given as South Dakota and her parents as Connecticut. It is unknown why she listed South Dakota as her birth place, but her adopted mother was born in Connecticut, so it is assumed that is why Connecticut is given. From previous information it is known that Agnes' adopted father was born in Michigan, but Agnes was only three years old when he died and perhaps she didn't know where he was born.¹³ ; 30s or 40s.

     Agnes was very proper but gracious, warm, and friendly. Her daughter-in-law, Betsy, remembers never seeing Agnes in slacks. When invited to go out for lunch with her, Agnes wore a hat and gloves. Agnes loved to go to the Detroit Women's City Club for lunch, she particularly liked their celery seed salad dressing and someone managed to get her the cook's recipe. Agnes was a very cheerful, loving person with a sizable group of good friends, most of whom loved to play bridge as she did. They entertained each other at luncheon and spent the afternoon playing bridge.⁵ ; Richards - siblings and spouses.¹⁴ ; Al an Agnes, with grandkids.

      Agnes Eloise Carter survived the death of her husband, Albert James Richards II, who died on 5 June 1968 in Grosse Pointe, Wayne County, Michigan.¹⁵ In 1989, Agnes moved to Bellingham, Whatcom County, Washington. Agnes said, "The cook here has quit and most of my friends are gone. I've got one last move in me." After over 90 years in Michigan she very bravely moved to a retirement facility in Bellingham, made new friends, and continued her bridge. Her daughter-in-law, Shirley, writes.^16,5 ; Betsy Richards and Agnes.

     "Grandma Goes West: Gram is ninety-one. She has nine Grandchildren and ten-an-a-half Great Grandchildren and still makes the best chocolate sodas and roasted pecans of anyone I know. She can play a crafty game of Bridge while regaling her opponents with up-to-the-minute episodes of her ever-expanding family....If you want to know the latest scoop on just about anything in the Entertainment world, ask Gram. What she doesn't absorb from Talk Shows she reads in PEOPLE magazine. Her apartment in the Retirement Home where she's been living for the past five years is brimming over with her treasures of a lifetime. The glass coffee table my infant daughter bumped her head on years ago. The tea cart that always had a candy dish and still does. The mahogany breakfront, filled with rare books and porcelain figurines. And her Gallery of pictures, from almost life-size portraits to small prints in exquisite frames. There are the pillows my boys used to fling at one another, and there is a cranberry-glass lamp the two of us bought in Canada one time and struggled to get through Customs. But best of all are the Photo Albums, stacked under the coffee table where they can be easily reached as soon as the chocolate sodas are consumed.....
     And now, Gram and her treasures are going West. She has decided to live near her son who went West a year ago. "When I fall on my face," she says, "I think I should be near him. The rest of you have enough to do without the burden of an old lady." The Movers came two weeks ago. The sofa and chairs and tea cart and tables and photo albums and cranberry lamp are on their way to the State of Washington, to a little town called Bellingham.....We think she'll love it there. Two Grandsons, Two Great Grandsons, and a Great-great granddaughter await her arrival. They'll want to take her White-river rafting, I think, and she'll say, "No, dear, my rafting days are over but do you know any good restaurants?" When Flight 475 prepared for Take-off last week from Detroit's Metro Airport, the lady who said she had "one more big challenge" in her, fastened her seatbelt and settled back for the new life that was about to begin three-thousand miles away.
     At ninety-one Grandma was heading West."^16,5

     Agnes Eloise Carter died in December 1992 in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Washington, at age 94; Her son Jim writes, "Agnes Richards died quietly in her sleep, just as she had wished to without suffering or a prolonged stay in a nursing home. In a way it was a fitting end to a very fine life and she looked serene peaceful and beautiful even after her spirit had left her body.

     She was a truely good person never knowingly hurting another, gossiping or expressing anger or complaining. She was even-tempered, considerate and dependable to a fault. She tried only to please others much of the time even as her eyes and hearing were letting her down.

     She was continually making friends and well liked and loved by all. She became a very gracious lady, well dressed and poised until the end. She never wanted to appear less than her best and managed to do it quite well.

     She was ready to go on to whatever was ahead and hoped to see her husband and my brother, Bob. She was a courageous spirit and her mind was remarkable til the last day. Only in the last month after we moved her to the first floor at her request was there any evidence that she was losing ground. We expected her to make it to the 100 year mark.

     Since the quality of life is the important thing and she said that she had already lived a full life, we should celebrate it and be glad we all knew her as a friend and companion who added much to our lives. May we all remember and encourage her best qualities where-ever we can. She is probably smiling down on all of us now wishing us the very best in our futures. She was cremated.¹⁷

     Albert James Richards was born on 28 March 1923 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.² He was the son of Albert James Richards II and Agnes Eloise Carter.¹

     On the census dated 11 April 1930 at Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Albert James Richards, shown as Albert J. Richards Jr., was listed as a son in the household of Albert J. Richards. He is seven years old and was born in Michigan.³

     Albert James Richards married Shirley Suzanne Spike. Years later, they divorced. They had four children; Suzie, Ronny, Bob, and Jack. Albert James Richards survived the death of his father, Albert James Richards II, who died on 5 June 1968 in Grosse Pointe, Wayne County, Michigan.⁴

     Albert James Richards died on 2 September 2017 in Bellingham, Washington, at age 94.⁵

     OBITUARY: A. James Richards A. James Richards passed away on Sept, 2, 2017 at the age of 94. He attended U of M Dental School where he obtained his Dental degree. He was a veteran in WWII. He served as 1st lt. in the dental core U.S. Navy. He is survived by four children: Susan Richards- Staples, Ronald Richards, Robert Richards, and Jack Richards; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. His favorite place to go was the Senior Center for lunch. He will be greatly missed. His best friend is Elizabeth Lorenzo in Bellingham, WA.⁵

     Harold Foote Driscal was born on 23 July 1901 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan.^1,8 He was the son of Fred E. Driscal and Clarissa Sylvia Foote.^3,4,5,6,7 ; Grandmother, mother, and son. ; Clara and her son, Harold. Harold Foote Driscal survived the death of his mother, Clarissa Sylvia Foote, who died on 8 May 1906 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. Harold Foote Driscal witnessed the marriage of Fred E. Driscal and Myrtie Emma Aylworth on 28 July 1908 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan.^9,10,11 In the census of 19 April 1910 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, he is listed as the son of Fred E. Driscal. He is eight years old and was born in Michigan, as were his parents. This household is living next to Ray and Leone Aylworth.¹² In the census of 9 January 1920 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, he is listed as the nephew of Raymond E. Aylworth. His name appears as Harold Driscal. In this census, Harold is 18, single, and was born in Michigan, as were his parents.⁸

     When his father remarried and the younger Driscal children started coming along, Uncle Ray and Aunt Leone Aylworth, who only lived two doors down the street from the Driscal family, invited Harold and his sister, Ione, to move in with them. Harold spent most of his growing up years with them. He had red curly hair, lots of freckles, and everyone called him "Red." He was a football player in high school and his football team worked with shovels helping to build Houseman Field, Central High School's football stadium. He was on the first football team at Grand Rapids Junior College and at one time broke his nose while playing.¹³

      In February 1924, Harold attended Yale Art School. He was awarded a Term Scholaship for 1923-24 school year. He also played the drums in a jazz band to support himself while in school.^14,15 ; Harold Driscal on drums.

     

     Harold Foote Driscal married Esther Marie Forsner, daughter of Michael Bernard Forsner and Johanna Margareta Holm, on 2 September 1926 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. Esther's brother, Harold Forsner, worked with Harold Driscal and introduced them to each other.^6,16,13 In 1926, Harold was working as a commercial artist in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. In May 1949, he was promoted to general manager at the Wallace-Lindeman, Inc, a Grand Rapids advertising agency. He eventually managed several advertising agencies. His job was very stressful and he always had at least one cigarette going, which was probably why he developed angina pectoris.^6,2,17,18

      They were renting an apartment on Cass Avenue when Betsy was born and about three years later, they built a house on Kalamazoo street. Harold then build a copy of their new house for his daughter, as a doll house. They lived in many different places. Harold was an artist during the Depression and had a hard time finding work.^13,19 In the census of 18 April 1930 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, Harold Driscal appears as a head of household which include his wife, Esther Driscal . He is 28 years old, and was 25 when he first married. He was born in Michigan along with his parents and is working as a artist in advertising. His house is valued at $5,200 and his household owns a radio.²⁰ ; Aylworth backyard picnic.²¹

     The Wall-Street stock-market crashed in 1929 and by 1932, a quarter of the work force was unemployed. In the height of the depression there was little work for a commerical artist and Harold and Esther couldn't keep up the payments on their new home, so the house was taken by the bank and they were forced to move. This began years of moving from one house to another, each house a little better than the last. With each move they hauled Harold's drum, xylophone, and a large upright piano. Their daughter, Betsy, doesn't remember being troubled about the many moves. They lived on Nelson Avenue, Madison Avenue, and on James Street in the city of Kalamazoo and on Union, Prince, and Cooper streets in Grand Rapids.¹³

      Before 1940, Harold and Esther moved with their family to Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. They moved often. During the depression there was little work for artists. They moved to Kalamazoo and to several homes in Grand Rapids. Eventually they found to their way to Morris Avenue, where they stayed for a few years and where they were living when Betsy, their daughter, graduated from high school.

     From the Office of Director of Civilian Defense, Certificate of Award for Service issued to Harold F. Driscal for 1000 hours service as a volunteer in Civilian Defense activiites which materially assisted in the prosecution of the war. Signed Gerald R. Ford. Harold's daughter, Betsy, remembers how her father walked up and down the streets to check that all windows were covered - no lights shining out and watching for enemy aircraft.²² Harold Foote Driscal was living at Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, at the death of his father, Fred E. Driscal on 17 January 1948.²³ He suffered a a heart attack on 24 August 1949. This was the day after his daughter was married. After the heart attack, he lived a pretty normal life, though he always carried and often took, nitro glycerin tablet.¹³

     Harold's relatives were very devoted to their church and didn't approve of drinking. They would hide the booze when Grandma and Granpa were coming. As Betsy recalls, they were told not to discuss liquor when the grandparents were around. When Betsy was married, her grandmother told all the relative children not to drink the punch because there was liquor in it; there was no liquor served.¹³ ; Their house in Grand Rapids.

     He loved projects, often had two or three going at a time. Betsy remembered when he decided the pump at the cottage should be in a basement and they didn't have a basement. So he dug one, with a shovel, under the front porch. She had a wonderful time helping him put shingles on the roof of the cottage. Years later, when Betsy told her Dad's doctor, that he worked too hard; up on the roof, under the house, or at the drawing board, the doctor said he was just fine, that he needed that activity. When he retired he stayed home a few weeks but soon was bored; he went back to work doing layouts for a friend's printing company. His daughter, Betsy, remembers visiting him and asking him how he could stand all the noise of the presses. He was it was fine because he couldn't hear anyhow. He was getting quite deaf.¹³ ; Harold drawing.

     Harold loved to watch football on television. He sat in a barrel chair with wheels and moved all over the living room with the plays. He took lots of pictures and developed them in his own dark room. He didn't do much oil or water color painting until after he retired.Then he began to paint wonderful pictures, many landscapes and a few portraits. He often exhibited at art shows and fairs. He was wonderful about using his drawing talents to illustrate letters to his children and grandchildren and help his children with homework projects.

     He had a lust for learning and an insatiable curiosity. He carried some computer chips, sent to him by his son, in his pockets for months, pulling them out periodically and marveling at them. He was truly, as they said in those days, "born 30 years too soon"! He was a tireless worker both at the office and at home, but always had time to pay attention to his children and grandchildren. He had a nickname for everyone. The Richards children were "Fed" (David), "Liver Boy" (Paul, whom he always asked, "How's your liver?"), "Annie Pie", "Rhubarbie", and "Marcus". His son, Bob, was "Sliver" and his daughter, Betsy was "Shrimpy." He called her "Shrimp" until the day he died.¹³

     In 1970, Harold and Esther moved to Tarpon Springs, Pinellas County, Florida. Later they moved to Largo, Florida.¹³ ; Harold and Esther Driscal.

     Harold Foote Driscal died on 8 January 1977 in Clearwater, Pinellas County, Florida, at age 75 of cardiac failure due to carcinoma of the lung. He had learned he had lung cancer a few years after he had moved to Florida. He refused to give into the sickness, but the cancer, his bad heart, radiation and chemotherapy weakened him. He was admitted to Morton Plant Hospital for dehydration and was left on a stretcher for a very long time. Becoming impatient, he tried to get off, fell and broke his hip. He was too weak for the needed surgery and he died the next day. His obituary states he was a native of Grand Rapids, was retired from Wallace Blakelee Advertising Co., and was living in Largo, Florida. His address is given as 403 Imperial Pams Drive. He was a well known artist in the area, a member of the Masonic Columbian chapter and a former High Priest. Contributions were requested to be made to the American Cancer Society or the Heart Fund.^24,2 He was survived by his wife Esther of Largo, a son Robert in San Jose, Calif, a daughter Mrs. Betsy Richards of Grand Rapids; a brother Floyd of Charlotte, Michigan; three sisters Miss Ione Driscal of Comstock Park, Michigan, Mrs. Mildred Stancliff and Mrs. Louise Zuidema both of Grand Rapids.²⁴

     OBITUARY: Driscal, Harold F., 75 of 403 Imperial Palms Drive, Largo, died Saturday (Jan. 8, 1977). Born in Grand Rapids, Mich., he came here two months ago from Holiday, and was a retired commerical artist and advertising man with Wallace-Blakeslee Advertising Co. He was a Mason. He is survived by his wife Ester, a son, Robert, San Jose, Calif., a daughter, Betsy Richards, Grand Rapids; a brother, Floyd, three sisters, Ione Driscal, Mildred Stancliff, and Louise Zuidema all of Michigan and eight grandchildren. National Cremation Society.²⁵ He was cremated on 10 January 1977.²

     Esther Marie Forsner was born on 15 June 1906 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. At the time of her birth, her parents were living at 233 Seventh Street.^2,6 She was the daughter of Michael Bernard Forsner and Johanna Margareta Holm.^{1,5,6,7,8,9,10} Esther Marie Forsner survived the death of her mother, Johanna Margareta Holm, who died before 1910. In the census of 19 April 1910 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Michal Fornsner. Her name appears as Ester Fornsner. She is three years old and was born in Michigan. Her parents were born in Sweden.¹¹ ; Forsner Family with stepmom. In the census of 22 January 1920 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Mike Forsner. She is 13 years old and was born in Michigan.¹²

     Esther was a typical 20's "Flapper". She had bobbed hair, loved to sing and dance, and was full of fun. She won a Japanese tea set in a Charleston contest.¹³

     Esther Marie Forsner married first Nelson Hagbom, son of Herman August Hagbom and Lydia, on 13 April 1925 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. At the time of their marriage, Nelson was living in Gary, Indiana and Esther was lviing in Grand Rapids.^13,14,15 In 1926, Esther was working as a stenographer in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. She also worked as a sales lady and at one time at the Tanglefoot Flypaper Company as a secretary. She loved to tell how the "boys" at Tanglefoot gave her a telescope so she could see that the moon was made of green cheese. The eye piece had been dipped in black ink.^1,13 She survived the death of her husband, Nelson Hagbom, who died sometime in 1925 after their marriage in April 1925 from tuberculosis.

     Esther Marie Forsner's second husband was Harold Foote Driscal, son of Fred E. Driscal and Clarissa Sylvia Foote. They married on 2 September 1926 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. Esther's brother, Harold Forsner, worked with Harold Driscal and introduced them to each other.^1,3,13 They were renting an apartment on Cass Avenue when Betsy was born and about three years later, they built a house on Kalamazoo street. Harold then build a copy of their new house for his daughter, as a doll house. They lived in many different places. Harold was an artist during the Depression and had a hard time finding work.^13,16 In the census of 18 April 1930 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, she is listed as the wife of Harold Driscal. She is 23, born in Michigan, and was married at the age of 20. Her parents were born in Sweden.¹⁷ ; Aylworth backyard picnic.¹⁸

     The Wall-Street stock-market crashed in 1929 and by 1932, a quarter of the work force was unemployed. In the height of the depression there was little work for a commerical artist and Harold and Esther couldn't keep up the payments on their new home, so the house was taken by the bank and they were forced to move. This began years of moving from one house to another, each house a little better than the last. With each move they hauled Harold's drum, xylophone, and a large upright piano. Their daughter, Betsy, doesn't remember being troubled about the many moves. They lived on Nelson Avenue, Madison Avenue, and on James Street in the city of Kalamazoo and on Union, Prince, and Cooper streets in Grand Rapids.¹³

     

     Before 1940, Harold and Esther moved with their family to Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. They moved often. During the depression there was little work for artists. They moved to Kalamazoo and to several homes in Grand Rapids. Eventually they found to their way to Morris Avenue, where they stayed for a few years and where they were living when Betsy, their daughter, graduated from high school.

      In 1942, Esther was working making parachutes at Glabe Knitting Works. She quit because they kept promoting her. She just wanted to make parachutes. Her daughter Betsy recalls, that she was glad her mother had quit because she had been responsible for cooking and doing the dishes, while her mom worked.¹³ She survived the death of her father, Michael Bernard Forsner, who died on 13 January 1944 in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. ; Esther's glass works.

     Esther collected antique colored cut glass and later worked with stained glass. She always had shelves of glass objects in the windows. She knitted and sewed; making many of her own clothes. She was a maniac with a paint brush, painting anything that could use some "sprucing up". She was a "Gray Lady", a volunteer at local hospitals. She played bridge, loved to play Canasta, and taught her children how to play Rummy. You really couldn't trust her at cards, she was a rascal. Her pride and joy was a certificate from Walter Hagen for having a hole-in-one on a local golf course.

     Both her and Harold loved to sing. They sang in the choir at Plymouth Congregational Church when their children were young. They always sang in the car. Esther enjoyed playing the piano and worked hard at it.¹³

     In 1970, Harold and Esther moved to Tarpon Springs, Pinellas County, Florida. Later they moved to Largo, Florida.¹³

     Letter to the Editor by Esther Driscal. Buses Would Help Gas-Short Shoppers. The gasoline shortage make many suggestions possible that might not apply at other times. Living along U.S. 19 in Southwest Pasco in the new developments and mobile home parks from the county line north to Southgate are many thousands of people who would like to go shopping more often at the various malls in the area. It is hard to find gas even at Zayre's or Holiday Mall or Pappa Plaza. So, why not a bus? Perhaps a mini-bus that makes stops on the main street of these developments, and mobile home parks, and each of the main shopping centers. Many people can afford the small fare necessary to pay the cost of the operation. There are about 4,000 persons in the Holiday Lake Estates area alone, and the develoments gets larger as you go north along U. S. 19. A lot of us have the money to spend but not the gas. Perhaps someone can suggest who could sponsor such a bus. Esther M. Driscal, Tarpon Springs.¹⁹ ; Harold and Esther Driscal. She was living in Largo, Pinellas County, Flordia, at the death of her husband, Harold Driscal on 8 January 1977.²⁰ In 1977, Esther moved to Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan. She moved into an apartment on Eastern Avenue. She had a friend named Adolph who squired her around and entertained her with records from operas; their favorite performer was Pavoratti. She loved to move and moved again into an apartment building for seniors on Burton Rd. near Breton. She made many new friends there.¹³

     Esther Marie Forsner died on 20 June 1981 in Kent Community Hospital, Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, at age 75 of cerebrovascular thrombosis with extensions due to arteriosclerosis heart disease for years.. Her blood pressure had been high and she had a difficult time keeping it under control. While playing bridge three months earlier, she suffered the stroke that lead to her death. Her obituary stated that she was 75 years old and that she passed away on a Saturday. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, June 23rd, at 3pm in the Klise Chapel of the East Congregational Church. Dr. Seymour VanDyken officiated.^4,21 She was cremated on 22 June 1981 at Graceland Crematory, Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan.⁴ She was survived by her daughter, Betsy, and her son, Bob.

     Albert James Richards was born on 9 April 1863 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. He was born at home which was at the corner of 2nd Blvd. and Jones Street. In 1982 the Edison Company's building stood in that spot.^3,4 He was the son of Israel R. Richards and Anna Parr.^1,2 In the census of 1 June 1870 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Albert appears in the household of Israel R. Richards as Albert Richards. He is seven years old and was born in Michigan.⁵ Albert James Richards survived the death of his mother, Anna Parr, who died on 17 March 1876 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.

      Albert James Richards survived the death of his father, Israel R. Richards, who died on 27 January 1877 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. His father commited suicide and an article in the Detroit News implied that the reasons were financial and the fact that his first wife had passed away within the last year.² On 16 February 1877, the probate court documents for the guardianship of Albert, indicate that David Hill is appointed guardian. He is also listed as principal and Thomas Adams as surety.⁶ On 26 February 1877 the estate of Israel R. Richards was probated in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan; Benjamin F. Stamm and David Hill were executors. The Will was dated 01 Feb 1877. Items listed in inventory included a featherbed, bed lounge, coal stove and pipe, wash stand basin and cover, books, chairs, a black horse and many other household goods, totaling $434.25. An additional $94.48 was received from goods sold and another $71.12 from the meat shop. Various dispersements brought the balance to zero with an additional $308.06 still due to various individuals. The mortgage as of 18 Nov. 1878 was listed as $411.11 and a loan of $400 was discussed in order to meet the interest and pay the balance of debts due. It is not known if the house was sold or if a loan was resorted to.² In 1879, Albert was working as a printer for Free Press in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.⁷ As of 1879, Albert James Richards and David Hill lived at 286 4th street, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.⁷

     On the census dated 1 June 1880 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Albert James Richards, shown as Alfred R. Richards, was listed as other in the household of David Hill. Albert is single, 17, born in Michigan, and was working as a printer.⁸ 10 April 1884, court documents state that Albert is above the age of 21 and that he has received full settlement from David Hill, his late guardian.⁶

     Albert James Richards married Kate Elmira Conner, daughter of Horace Harvey Conner and Harriette Hancock Holloway, on 25 September 1889 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^9,10 On 29 August 1890 their daughter, Anna Parr Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^3,11,12 On 17 June 1892 their son, Albert James Richards II, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^{13,14,15,16,17} On 1 September 1898 their daughter, Helen Conner Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. At the time of her birth, they were living at 452 Trumbull in Detroit.^3,18,19 In the census of 16 June 1900 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Albert J. Richards, shown as Albert J. Richards, appears as a head of household, which include his wife, Kate Elmira Conner, his son, Albert James Richards II, his daughters, Anna Parr Richards and Helen Conner Richards. He is 37, has been married for 11 years, and is working as an advertising agent. He was born in Michigan in April 1863 and his parents were born in England.²⁰ Their fourth child, Marguerite, was born on 21 February 1904 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^3,21 Their fifth child, David Hill, was born on 5 September 1906 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^3,22,23 In the census of 18 April 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Albert J. Richards, shown as Albert J. Richards, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Kate Elmira Conner, his sons, Albert James Richards II and David Hill Richards, his daughters, Anna Parr Richards, Helen Conner Richards and Mary M. Richards . He is 47 year old and working at a shoe store. He has been married for 20 years and was born in Michigan. His parents were born in England.²⁴

     Albert James Richards died on 7 January 1911 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, at age 47.^3,25 He was survived by his wife, Kate, his daughters Anna, Helen, and Marguerite, and his sons Albert and David.¹⁰ He is buried in the Woodland Cemetery located in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.³

     OBITUARY: Richards - January 7, at his late residence. 452 Trumbull avenue. Albert J. Richards, beloved husband of Kate E. and father of Annabelle, Albert, Jr., Helen, Marguerite and David. Funeral from residence Monday at 2 p. m.²⁶

     Kate Elmira Conner was born on 21 September 1869 in Adrian, Lenawee County, Michigan.^5,6,1,3 She was the daughter of Horace Harvey Conner and Harriette Hancock Holloway.⁴ In the census of 27 June 1870 in Adrian, Lenawee County, Michigan, Kate appears in the household of Horace Conner as Katy Conner. She is nine months old and was born in Michigan, September 1869.⁷ Circa 1871, Kate Elmira Conner moved with her parents to Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. In the census of 1880 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Horace H. Connor. Her name appears as Kate E. Connor. She is 10 years old and attending school.⁸

     Kate Elmira Conner married Albert James Richards, son of Israel R. Richards and Anna Parr, on 25 September 1889 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^9,10 On 29 August 1890 their daughter, Anna Parr Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^4,11,12 On 17 June 1892 their son, Albert James Richards II, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^{13,14,15,16,17} On 1 September 1898 their daughter, Helen Conner Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. At the time of her birth, they were living at 452 Trumbull in Detroit.^4,18,19

      In the census of 16 June 1900 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the wife of Albert James Richards. Her name appears as Kate E. Richards. Kate is 30, was born September 1869 in Michigan, and has been married 11 years. She has 3 children, all presently living. Her mother was born in England and her father in Michigan.²⁰ Kate Elmira Conner survived the death of her father, Horace Harvey Conner, who died on 24 August 1903 in Pontiac, Wayne County, Michigan.²¹ Their fourth child, Marguerite, was born on 21 February 1904 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^4,22 Their fifth child, David Hill, was born on 5 September 1906 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^4,23,24 Kate Elmira Conner survived the death of her mother, Harriette Hancock Holloway, who died on 27 March 1909 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.²⁵ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the wife of Albert James Richards. She is 40 years old and was born in Michigan. She has been married for 20 years and had five children; all of them are living. Her father's birth location is given as Michigan and her mother's as England.²⁶ ; Quilt - Grandmother's Flower Garden.

     Kate was a quilt maker. Two of her quilts are still in the family and as of 2015 were owned by Barbara (Richards) Malloure.

      Kate Richards survived the death of her husband, Albert James Richards, who died on 7 January 1911 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.¹⁰ In the census of 5 January 1920 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Kate Richards, shown as Kate Richards, appeared as a head of household which included, her sons, Albert J. Richards and David H. Richards, her daughters, Helen Richards and Marguerite Richards She is 50 years old and is shown as a widow.²⁷ In the census of 16 April 1930 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Kate Richards, shown as Kate E. Richards, appears as a head of household which include, her son, David Hill Richards. She is listed as a widow, 60 years old, and is currently renting her home for $75 per month. Her father was born in Michigan and her mother in England.²⁸

      ; Quilt - Postage Stamp Pattern.

     Kate Elmira Conner died on 11 June 1958 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, at age 88.^4,29 She is buried in the Woodlawn Cemetery located in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.⁴

     OBITUARY: Kate (Richards) June 11th of 18043 Stansbury, beloved mother of Mrs. Herbert (Annabelle) Munro, Dr. Albert J. Richards, Mrs. Ralph (Helen) Garber, Mrs. Gilbert (Marguerite) Purse and Dr. David H. Richards; dear sister of Mrs. John Turk; twelve grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchldren. Services Friday 3 p.m. Sawyer Funeral Home 2125 12 Mile Berkley. Please omit Flowers.³⁰

     According to her daughter, Helen, Kate was a generous woman. She paid the funeral expenses of her brother, George. When one of their neighbors, the Pritchard family, were down financially because Mr. Pritchard's health failed, Kate took Bessie Pritchard into their house on Dexter Blvd, so she could continue her school year at Northwestern. Then Kate paid Mrs. Pritchard's expenses to take her husband to Kentucky to be with his parents.

     Kate's daughter Helen writes that every time her mother made any financial gain, she would send it to the Christian Science Church. Yet when she wasn't able to send in money in later years, she received a letter about how privileged she should feel to make contributions and expense her gratitude thereby. Helen wrote the Board of Directors of the church and stated that gratitude worked both ways and that in all the years that Kate had given so generously, never once had any letter of gratitude come from the Board members. From then on, in every check Kate had Helen send, she received a glowing Thank-You.³¹

     Anna Parr Richards was also known as Annabelle Richards.^4,3

     Anna Parr Richards was born on 29 August 1890 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^2,1,5 She was the daughter of Albert James Richards and Kate Elmira Conner.^2,3,4 In the census of 16 June 1900 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Albert James Richards. She is 9 years old and was born August 1890 in Michigan.⁶ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Albert James Richards. Her name appears as Anna P. Richards. She is 19 years old, single, and was born in Michigan. She is a cashier in a shoe store.⁷

     Anna Parr Richards married Herbert E. Munro in 1911.^2,4,8

      Anna Parr Richards survived the death of her father, Albert James Richards, who died on 7 January 1911 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.³ Anna Parr Richards adopted Donald Eugene Munro; It is believed that Donald never knew he was adopted. The 1920 Census shows that his mother was born in Ohio, which is where Della McManus was born. Anna Munro was born in Michigan. In the census of 2 January 1920 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the wife of Herbert E. Munro. Her name appears as Anna Munro. She is 29 years old and was born in Michigan, as were her parents.⁹ In the census of 11 April 1930 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the wife of Herbert E. Munro. Her name appears as Anna P. Munro. She is 39 years old and was born in Michigan, as were her parents. She was 21 years old at the time of her marriage. ; Richards - siblings and spouses.¹⁰ Anna Parr Richards survived the death of her brother, Albert James Richards II, who died on 5 June 1968 in Grosse Pointe, Wayne County, Michigan.¹¹

     Anna Parr Richards died on 27 November 1976 in Royal Oak, Wayne County, Michigan, at age 86.^5,12 She is buried in the Woodlawn Cemetery located in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.²

     OBITUARY: Annabelle Munro, 86, Life long Detroiter: Funeral services for Annabelle R. Munro, a lifelong resident of the Detroit area, will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Vasu-Lynch funeral Home, 4375 N. Woodward in Royal Oak.

     Mrs. Munro, 86, died at home in Royal Oak Saturday. She was a resident of Royal Oak for nine years, and a member of the Eastern Star in Detroit. She was the widow of Herbert E. Munro, a former Wayne County assistant prosecutor who died in 1950.

     She is survived by a son, Donald E. Munro, a daughter, Mrs. Frances M. Knight; two sisters; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. The body will be at the funeral home after 4 p.m. Monday. Burial will be a Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit.

     Helen Garber would memorize poetry, give reading, and had a phtographic memory.⁵

     Helen Conner Richards was born on 1 September 1898 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^2,6,1 She was the daughter of Albert James Richards and Kate Elmira Conner.^2,3,4 In the census of 16 June 1900 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Albert James Richards. Her name appears as Helen C. Richards. Helen is one year old and was born September 1898 in Michigan.⁷ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Albert James Richards. She is 11 years old and was born in Michigan.⁸

      Helen Conner Richards survived the death of her father, Albert James Richards, who died on 7 January 1911 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.³ In the census of 5 January 1920 in Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Kate Richards. Helen is 21 and was born in Michigan.⁹

     Helen Conner Richards married James Ralph Garber, son of James Noble Garber and Anna Lou Meeker, on 24 June 1920.^2,10,4 In the census of 9 April 1930 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the wife of James Ralph Garber. Her name appears as Hellen Garber. She is 31 years old, married at age 21, and was born in Michigan, as were her parents.¹¹ ; Richards - siblings and spouses.¹² Helen Conner Richards survived the death of her brother, Albert James Richards II, who died on 5 June 1968 in Grosse Pointe, Wayne County, Michigan.¹³

     Helen Conner Richards died on 22 August 1997 in Plymouth, Wayne County, Michigan, at age 98.^6,14

     OBITUARY: Garber, Helen C., Age 98, August 22, 1997, of Plymouth. Beloved wife of the late Ralph; dear mother of Barbara Jean Cato, Lou Ann (John) Seely, James N. (Marianne) Garber and the late David Garber; dear mother-in-law of the late George A. Cato; dear sister of Marguerite Purse; dear grandmother of nine; great grandmother of 20; great great grandmother of one. Funeral service Tuesday 2 p.m. at Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 S. Main St., Plymouth. Visitation Tuesday 1 p.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, family suggests contributions to a charity of one's own choosing.¹⁴

     Marguerite Richards was born on 21 February 1904 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^2,4 She was the daughter of Albert James Richards and Kate Elmira Conner.^2,1,3 In the census of 18 April 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Albert James Richards. Her name appears as Mary M. Richards. She is six years old and was born in Michigan.⁵ Marguerite Richards survived the death of her father, Albert James Richards, who died on 7 January 1911 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.¹ In the census of 5 January 1920 in Wayne County, Michigan, she is listed as the daughter of Kate Richards. Her name appears as Marguerite Richards. She is 15 years old and was born in Michigan, as were her parents.⁶

     Marguerite Richards married Gilbert A. Purse on 25 November 1926.^7,4,8,3 In the census of 9 April 1930 in Toledo, Lucas County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of Gilbert A. Purse. Her name appears as Marguerite M. Purse. She is 26 years old, born in Michigan, and was first married at the age of 22. Her parents were also both born in Michigan.⁹ ; Richards - siblings and spouses.¹⁰ Marguerite Richards survived the death of her brother, Albert James Richards II, who died on 5 June 1968 in Grosse Pointe, Wayne County, Michigan.¹¹

     Marguerite Richards died on 14 August 2000 in Oakland County, Michigan, at age 96.⁴

     David Hill Richards was born on 5 September 1906 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.^2,1,5 He was the son of Albert James Richards and Kate Elmira Conner.^2,3,4 In the census of 18 April 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, he is listed as the son of Albert James Richards. He is three years old and was born in Michigan.⁶ David Hill Richards survived the death of his father, Albert James Richards, who died on 7 January 1911 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.³ In the census of 5 January 1920 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, he is listed as the son of Kate Richards. He is 13 years old and was born in Michigan.⁷ In the census of 16 April 1930 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, he is listed as the son of Kate Richards. His name appears as David Hill Richards. He is a single male, age 23, and working as a Dentist.⁸

     David Hill Richards married Virginia Bush on 23 June 1934 in Saginaw, Saginaw County, Michigan.² ; Richards - siblings and spouses.⁹

     David Hill Richards died on 31 July 1965 at age 58.^2,5 He is buried in the Woodlawn Cemetery located in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.²

     Israel R. Richards was born in July 1828 in Tiverton, Devon County, England.^3,4,5,6,7 He was the son of William Richards and Sarah Thompson.^1,2 Israel R. Richards was baptized on 6 July 1828 at Tiverton, Devon, England.⁷ In the census of 1841 in Tiverton, Devon County, England, Israel appears in the household of Sarah Thompson as Israel Richards. He is 13 years old and working as a lacehand. He was born in the Borough of Tiverton.² On 28 March 1849 in Tiverton, England, a person by the name of Israel Richards charges a James Williams with theft of 3 half crowns, 2 sixpences, a pair of scissors, and the scissor's case. Elizabeth Richards was a witness. It is mostly likely that this is our Israel Richards and that Elizabeth is probably a relative. A week later, on April 5th, Israel Richards is charged with begging on Sidwells Street by William Dalgleish.⁸

      In the census of 1851 in Burgess Court; Leat Street, Tiverton, Devon, England, he is listed as a boarder in the household of Robert Marshall. His name appears as Israel Richards. He is 29 years old, working as a silk twister, and was born in Tiverton, Devonshire, England.⁹ Tiverton is an ancient borough and market town, formerly a principal seat of the woolen manufacture. It is pleasantly situated on the sloping banks where the Exe River meets the Loman rivulet, 13 miles from Exeter. The Grand Western Canal extends northwards from this town to Taunton. The Parish of Tiverton is co-extensive with the Borough, and comprises no less than 16,790 acres of fertile land. Its total population amounted in 1841 to 10,770, of whom 7769 were in the town, and the others in the four Quarters of the parish. Some of the small villages in the Quarters were Chettescombe, Bolham, Chevithorne, West and East Mere, Craze-Loman, Manley Palmer, Withleigh, and Ashely. The Parish Church (St. Peter) is one of the largest and handsomest parish churches in the county.^10,5

      Israel R. Richards immigrated on 12 June 1851 to New York. The port of departure was Bristol, England and the name of the ship was the Queen of the Ocean. Also on this same ship was Samuel Ricketts, age 19. Samuel was Israel's bestman in his wedding a year later.¹¹

     Israel R. Richards married Anna Parr on 28 July 1852 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Israel was 25 years old and Ann Parr was 29 and they were both from Detroit. Samuel Ricketts and Ann Warren witness their wedding and they were married by John Russell. In 1852, John Russell was Pastor of the Congress Street Methodist Episcopal Church in Detroit. This church was located on Congress street at the corner of Randolph Street. In the 1862 Detroit Directory, the church is listed, but by 1871 it is no longer showing.^12,13,14,15

      In 1852, Israel was working as a blacksmith. He was living on the south side of Michigan Avenue, 3 streets below Shelby. In 1853 he is still working as a blacksmith, but living on the south side of Elizabeth Street between Antoine and Beaubien. By 1859 he is working for the Great Western Railway as a brakeman and living at 20 Jones Street in Detroit. Two years later he is living a few doors down at 54 Jones Street and by 1864 at 59 Jones Street and working as a conductor for the G. W. Railroad. So far he has lived at three different locations on Jones Street and in 1870 his address is given as 70 Jones Street, a fourth address, and now he is working as a baggage man or baggage manager for the Michigan Central Depot. In 1874, his address and job are the same.^{16,17,18,14,19,20,21}

      In the census of 6 June 1860 at Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Israel R. Richards appears as a head of a household which include the following household member; Anna Parr. He is 30 years old and working as a brakeman for the railroad. He has real estate valued at $800 and his personal estate at $100. His name appears as Israel Richards.²² Israel R. Richards was living in 1862 at 54 Jones, Detroit, Michigan, according to the Detroit directory. He is shown as brakeman.²³ He witnessed the marriage of Mary Ann Wreford and Frederick Moore on 15 January 1863 in Wayne County, Michigan; Israel Richards and William Smith witness their wedding.²⁴ Israel R. Richards witnessed the marriage of Sarah Richards and James Dela Rue on 22 March 1863 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan; They were married by Jacob C. Wortley, Minister of Gospel. In 1865, J. Wortley was the Pastor at the Methodist church on the corner of Lafeyette & Fourth. Sarah's brother, Israel Richards, witness the wedding.^25,19 On 9 April 1863 their son, Albert James Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan; He was born at home which was at the corner of 2nd Blvd. and Jones Street. In 1982 the Edison Company's building stood in that spot.^26,27 In the census of 1 June 1870 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Israel R. Richards, shown as "Isreal" Richards, is listed as the head of household which included the following household members; Anna Richards and Albert J. Richards. He is 43 years old, a baggageman for the railroad and has real estate valued at $3000. His personal estate is valued at $700. He was born in England and his parents were of foreign birth.²⁸

      On 4 September 1871 the estate of William Thorn was probated in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Israel was a witness, along with a John Crook; Israel Richards and John Crook are listed as Executors. Emily Ayers is listed as daughter of his late wife.²⁹ Sometime in 1876, Israel lost his job. He was one of the old employees who was discharged from the Great Western Railway Company.¹⁸ Israel R. Richards survived the death of his wife, Anna Parr, who died on 17 March 1876 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.

     Israel R. Richards's second wife was Elizabeth Redwood. They married in May 1876. Within six weeks of the death of Israel's first wife, Israel and Elizabeth were married which surprised Israel's son and their neighbors. Elizabeth, also known as Bessie, had been employed as domestic help in the Richards' family before their marriage. Since their marriage, their life was a continued siege of trouble and dispute. On one or two occasions Israel expressed fears that his wife would kill him, but he often made threats to take his own life also. This marriage was not a happy one. There was incompatibility of temperament and the couple quarreled violently at times.^30,31,5 Around Novemeber 1876, Israel opened a meat market, but he was not accustomed to the business and it did not do well.⁵ Israel R. Richards was survived by his son Albert James Richards and his wife, Elizabeth. In his will 1/3 of his property was left to his wife after paying $300 to his son. The remaining 2/3 was left to his son. David Hill was appointed guardian of Albert J. Richards.³⁰

     Israel R. Richards died on 27 January 1877 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, at age 48. He committed suicide shortly after 10 o'clock in the morning by cutting his throat with a razor. According to the local newspaper, his son, Albert, was awakened by loud words of dispute between his father and mother and when he called his father to breakfast, the old man answered that he "wouldn't eat with that thing, as he was afraid she would poison him." After breakfast, the boy asked his father to go down to the market at 174 Michigan avenue, but the father had wanted to shave and couldn't go just then. The son then left without him.

     Israel's wife said that her husband came into the kitchen after breakfast, having a razor in his hand and ordered her to go into the other room because he did not wish her to be observing him as he shaved. She did as directed; employing herself at the sewing machine. He still complained of her noting his movements and therefore she moved her machine out of range. The last movement she saw was Israel washing himself at the waist stand. Shortly after, the sound of a fall was heard in the kitchen, she hastened in and saw her husband prone on the floor, staring and bleeding. She asked him what had he done and he answered by swinging his two hands to his throat, then moved his head slightly, made a deprecatory motion with his hands, and kicked violently with his feet. She went for assistance and rushed out of the house to the neighbors. Doctors were summoned, but nothing could be done; he had cut his jugular vein and died within two minutes.

     He had lost his first wife about a year ago and also his job. So much misfortune seemed to beat heavily on him and he rapidly sought to drown his sorrow in temperance. That self-destruction was not unpremedated is indicated by the fact that on the evening before his death, he gave his son, Alfred, a sealed package with instructions not to open it. This was subsequently found to contain a receipt from the Judge of Probate showing that Israel Richards' will and testament had been deposited there. Coroner Oakes held an inquest and the jury returning a verdict in accordance with the above facts.

     Israel Richards possessed many genital and companionable qualities, which endeared him to a large circle. He was known as an upright and kind man.³² Funeral services were held at his late residence.^33,5 He was buried in the Elmwood Cemetery in Detroit, but when his son died in 1911, his daughter-in-law had him and his deceased wife, Anna, moved to the Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit to be near their son.³³

      His estate was probated on 26 February 1877 at Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Benjamin F. Stamm and David Hill were executors. The Will was dated 01 Feb 1877. Items listed in inventory included a featherbed, bed lounge, coal stove and pipe, wash stand basin and cover, books, chairs, a black horse and many other household goods, totaling $434.25. An additional $94.48 was received from goods sold and another $71.12 from the meat shop. Various dispersements brought the balance to zero with an additional $308.06 still due to various individuals. The mortgage as of 18 Nov. 1878 was listed as $411.11 and a loan of $400 was discussed in order to meet the interest and pay the balance of debts due. It is not known if the house was sold or if a loan was resorted to.³⁰

     OBITUARY: Shocking Suicide Richards Severs the Thread of Life With an Old Razor. Misfortunes and Domestic Troubles, the Probable Cause. Shortly
after (?) o’clock Sunday morning citizens residing on Jones street, between Second and Third, were startled by hearing that Israel Richards , who lived at No. 70 Jones street, had taken his own life by cutting his throat with a razor and in a very few minutes a score of men and women stood in the kitchen of Mrs. Richards’ house idly satisfying their curiosity by looking unto the form of the dead man who’s distorted features told too plainly the terrible secret which was covered by the (?) thrown over the body and wrapped closely over the mutilated neck. Chroner Oakes took charge of the case and after examining Mrs. Richards and the son, Albert Richards, adjourned the inquest until Monday.
to the testimony taken the history of the tragedy is about as follows: Mr. Richards came to this country in 1877 and found employment in the service of the Great Western Railway. Gradually he was promoted until he held the position of baggage master for said company and the Michigan Central depot. About a year ago, he was one of the old employees who was discharged and about the same time his wife died leaving him alone to care for the boy, who is about fourteen years old. So much misfortune ensued to beat heavily on the unfortunate man, and with (?) rapidly he sought to drown his sorrow in temperance. Not many months after the death of his wife, he surprised his son and neighbors by wedding Miss Bessie Redwood, and since that time his life has been a continued siege of trouble and dispute. On one of two occasions, he has expressed fears that his wife would kill him and as often did he make threats to take his own life. 
morning, about six o’clock, the boy, Albert Richards, says he was awakened by loud words of dispute between his father and mother, and when he called his father to breakfast, the old man answered, "that he wouldn’t eat (?) that thing, as he was afraid she would poison him.” After breakfast, he asked his father to go down to the market - Mr. Richards kept a meat market at No. 174 Michigan avenue - and the father told him he wanted to shave and couldn’t go just then. Young Richards drove around with the horse and wagon and returned. His father still not being ready, the lad went down to the market and he the next report received by him was that his father had cut him throat. 
Richards, who is scarily twenty years old; says that her husband came into the kitchen after breakfast, having a razor in his hand and ordered her to go into the other room, as he did not want her to be observing him in his shaved. She did as directed, and employing herself at the sewing machine. He still complained of her noting his movements and thereupon she moved her machine out of range. The last movements she was was his washing himself at the wash stand.  
after the sound of a fall was heard in the kitchen. She hastened in and saw her husband phoned on the floor, staring and bleeding.

“Oh, What have you done?” she screamed. He answered by raising his two hands to his throat.

“Killed yourself?” Oh, Heavens! Can you not speak!” He moved his hand slightly (?) a deprecatory motion with his hands and kicked violently with his feet, which she (?) for assistance. Then she rushed out of there to the next neighbors. Drs (?) (?) and (?) were summoned, but of course nothing could avail. The man had severed his jugular vein and died within two minutes.
grief and distraction of the boy Albert were pitfall to behold. He up himself with having left his father and with many (?)  declared if he had remained with him his death would never have been attempted. 
Richards possessed many genial and companionable qualifies which endeared him to a large circle of friends. He was known to be upright and kind man.
Richards was possessed of real estate valued as is said at $30,000 and in a package given by him to his son, Friday evening revealed a receipt from the Regulator of Probate for the deposit of his last Will and testament. The deceased was a native of Tiverton, England and was fifty five years of age.⁵ 

     Anna Parr was born in 1827 in England.^2,3

     Anna Parr married Israel R. Richards, son of William Richards and Sarah Thompson, on 28 July 1852 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Israel was 25 years old and Ann Parr was 29 and they were both from Detroit. Samuel Ricketts and Ann Warren witness their wedding and they were married by John Russell. In 1852, John Russell was Pastor of the Congress Street Methodist Episcopal Church in Detroit. This church was located on Congress street at the corner of Randolph Street. In the 1862 Detroit Directory, the church is listed, but by 1871 it is no longer showing.^2,4,5,6

      In the census of 6 June 1860 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Anna appears in the household of Israel R. Richards as Ann Richards. She is 33 and was born in England. No children are shown.³ On 9 April 1863 their son, Albert James Richards, was born in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan; He was born at home which was at the corner of 2nd Blvd. and Jones Street. In 1982 the Edison Company's building stood in that spot.^7,8 In the census of 1 June 1870 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, Anna appears in the household of Israel R. Richards as Annie Richards. She is 45, born in England, and is keeping house. Her parents were of foreign birth.¹

     Anna Parr died on 17 March 1876 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, after a long illness.^9,10,11 She was survived by her husband, Israel and her son, Albert. The funeral took place from her late residence.¹² She was buried in the Elmwood Cemetery in Detroit, but when her son died in 1911, her daughter-in-law had her and her deceased husband moved to the Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit to be near their son.¹²

     John Gilbert Carter was also known as Gilbert J. Carter.^6,5

     John Gilbert Carter was born on 18 March 1856 in Patchogue Long Island, Suffolk County, New York.^3,7,2,5 He was the son of Ichabod Gararas Carter and Amanda S. Carter.^3,4,2,5 In the census of 7 August 1860 in Brookhaven Township, Suffolk County, New York, John appears in the household of Ichabod Gararas Carter as John G. Carter. He is four years old and was born in New York.³ In the census of 10 August 1870 in Brookhaven Township, Suffolk County, New York, John appears in the household of Ichabod Gararas Carter. He is 15 years old and was born in New York.⁸ In 1876, John Gilbert Carter moved with his parents to Delevan, Faribault County, Minnesota; They operated a farm for about three years around Delevan.^9,10,11

      In 1878, John Gilbert Carter moved with his parents to Dakota Territory. There was not a town near where they first lived, but years later the place was called Canistota; When they first settled in the area, there wasn't a town around them, but years later the place was called Canistota, McCook County, South Dakota.¹⁰ He survived the death of his mother, Amanda S. Carter, who died on 17 October 1878 in Dakota Territory.¹² In the census of 7 June 1880 in McCook County, Dakota Territory, he is listed as the son of Ichabod Gararas Carter. He is 24 years old and was born in New York. Also living in this household are his four brothers.¹³ On 4 March 1882 at McCook County, South Dakota, John Gilbert Carter purchased 160 acres of land.¹⁴

     John Gilbert Carter married Agnes Eloise Cross, daughter of Andrew Jackson Cross and Lucy Jane Weston, on 27 November 1887 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota.¹⁵ On 29 January 1890 their daughter, Ruth Augusta Carter, was born in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota.^16,17,18 Their second child, Charles Ellsworth, was born on 25 August 1891 in Turner County, South Dakota.^19,20 Their third child, Lorna May, was born on 27 August 1893 in South Dakota.^21,22

     John and Agnes moved with their family to Springdale, Washington County, Arkansas. They probably moved to Elm Spring in 1894 or early 1895. John's father, Ichabod Carter, also moved to Arkansas sometime in 1895, probably late 1895 and John and Agnes were already there. Ichabod purchased a farm 5 miles from John's farm in Springdale. They stay in Arkansas for at least three years.^9,23 Their fourth child, Agnes Eloise, was born on 28 March 1898 in Elmspring, Washington County, Arkansas.^24,25 John Gilbert Carter survived the death of his wife, Agnes Eloise Carter, who died on 8 November 1899 in Davis, South Dakota.

     It is not known when they moved back to South Dakota or why, but it is known that the children were split up after John's wife died. It was always thought that John and his mother kept the three oldest children and great Aunt Lilla adopted the baby. However John's mother had died in 1878. His father had married several time afterwards, but was living in Delaware in 1900. In 1900, John's three oldest children were living with John's brother-in-law, William Cross and William's mother. This would have been John wife's brother and his wife's mother. John Gilbert, who had previous used the name John G. seemed to now go by Gilbert J. He is found living with his father in Delaware in 1900.²⁶

      In the census of 20 June 1900 in Dover, Kent County, Delaware, he is listed as the son of Ichabod Gararas Carter. His name appears as Gilbert Carter. He is 42 years old and his birth date is given as March 1858. He was born in New York as were his parents. He is shown as single and working as a carpenter. The only two in this household are his father and himself.²⁷ John Gilbert Carter survived the death of his daughter, Lorna May Carter, who died on 18 September 1903 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota. Between 1905 and 1910, Gilbert moved to Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He left his daughter, Ruth, to teach in South Dakota, and his son, Charles, with his brother-in-law, William Cross. His daughter, Lorna had died and his daughter, Agnes, was already living with her great Aunt Lillie Culver in Michigan.¹⁵ John Gilbert Carter has not been found on the census of 1910.

     In the census of 8 January 1920 in Forrest County, Mississippi, John Gilbert Carter, shown as Gilbert J. Carter, is listed as a head of household, living alone. He is 63 years old, a widow, and was born in New York, as were his parents. He is working at a saw mill and living next to Allise Carter, age 53, who may or may not be a relative. He owns his own home and does not have a mortgage.⁶

     John Gilbert Carter married Alice between 1920 and 1930 in Mississippi.²⁸

     On 14 August 1925, Gilbert J. Carter, gave a deposition concerning his father's military pension. He stated that he was 69 years old, a farmer and a mill man and that he lived three miles east of Hattiesburg, Mississippi on the Hattiesburg and Augusta road.⁵ In the census of 23 April 1930 in Forrest County, Mississippi, John Gilbert Carter, shown as Gilbert J. Carter, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Alice. He is 74 years old, married, and was born in New York, as were his parents. No occupation is given. The age of his first marriage is given as 28.²⁹

     John Gilbert Carter died in March 1934 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.^26,15

     Agnes Eloise Cross was born on 26 August 1861 in Pulaski, Jackson County, Michigan.^1,2 She was the daughter of Andrew Jackson Cross and Lucy Jane Weston.¹ Agnes Eloise Cross survived the death of her father, Andrew Jackson Cross, who died on 19 October 1862 in the Civil War, Oakhill, Ohio. In the census of 7 July 1870 in Pulaski, Jackson County, Michigan, Agnes appears in the household of George C. Weston as Agnes Weston. She is eight years old and was born in Michigan. It is unknown why she is living with her mother's brother. Lucy Cross, her mother, appears in a 1870 census dated three weeks earlier in Tolland County, Connecticut.³ In the census of 9 June 1880 in Coventry Township, Tolland County, Connecticut, she is listed as the daughter of Lucy Jane Weston. Her name appears as Agnes E. Cross. Agnes is 18 years old and was born in Michigan. She is working in a silk mill.⁴

      In May 1881, Agnes Eloise Cross moved with her mother and brother to Sun Prairie Township, McCook County, South Dakota.^5,6,7,8 On 22 March 1889, a land patent is granted to Agnes Cross for 160 acres in McCook County, South Dakota. The section number, lot number, and range, are all the same as her mother's land record, which was recorded five months earlier. The governing authority granting the patent was dated April 20, 1820 and appears to be an act by Congress, making provisions for sale of public land. Assuming that this act was similar to the Homestead Act, which is how Agnes' mother received her land patent, then Agnes had to settle on her land for five to seven years before receiving the patent. Also Agnes would have to be at least 21 years old before starting her claim. She probably started her claim in 1882, shortly after arriving in South Dakota. This would agree with the fact that Agnes received her patent in her maiden name and not her 1889 married name.^9,10

      On 11 October 1884, she received her Teacher's Certificate from the Department of Education in McCook County and began teaching at the Sun Prairie School. Her teachers contract dated July 1888, uses her maiden name, calls her Ms. Cross, and shows that she received the sum of $30 a month for teaching.^11,12,13

     Agnes Eloise Cross married John Gilbert Carter, son of Ichabod Gararas Carter and Amanda S. Carter, on 27 November 1887 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota.⁹ On 29 January 1890 their daughter, Ruth Augusta Carter, was born in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota.^14,15,16 Their second child, Charles Ellsworth, was born on 25 August 1891 in Turner County, South Dakota.^17,18 Their third child, Lorna May, was born on 27 August 1893 in South Dakota.^19,20

     John and Agnes moved with their family to Springdale, Washington County, Arkansas. They probably moved to Elm Spring in 1894 or early 1895. John's father, Ichabod Carter, also moved to Arkansas sometime in 1895, probably late 1895 and John and Agnes were already there. Ichabod purchased a farm 5 miles from John's farm in Springdale. They stay in Arkansas for at least three years.^21,22 Their fourth child, Agnes Eloise, was born on 28 March 1898 in Elmspring, Washington County, Arkansas.^23,24

     Agnes Eloise Cross died on 8 November 1899 in Davis, South Dakota, at age 38.^25,26,27 She was survived by her husband, her mother, and four children; Ruth, Charles, Lorna, and Agnes. She is buried in the Rosehill Cemetery located in Parker, Turner County, South Dakota.²⁷

     Ruth Augusta Carter was born on 29 January 1890 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota.^1,3,4 She was the daughter of John Gilbert Carter and Agnes Eloise Cross.² Ruth Augusta Carter moved with her parents to Springdale, Washington County, Arkansas. They moved back to South Dakota by the end of 1899; They probably moved to Elm Spring in 1894 or early 1895. John's father, Ichabod Carter, also moved to Arkansas sometime in 1895, probably late 1895 and John and Agnes were already there. Ichabod purchased a farm 5 miles from John's farm in Springdale. They stay in Arkansas for at least three years.^5,6 She survived the death of her mother, Agnes Eloise Carter, who died on 8 November 1899 in Davis, South Dakota.

      In the census of 4 June 1900 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota, she is listed as a neice of William Herbert Cross. Her name appears as Ruth A. Carter. She is 10 years old and was born in January 1890 in South Dakota. Frederick Carter is her father's brother. Ruth's father's birth location is given as New York and her mother's as Michigan. She is in school and can read and write. Also living in this household is her grandmother Lucy Cross, her sister, Lorna, and her brother, Charles. Her father is living in Delaware with his father, Ichabod Carter.⁷ In the census of May 1910 in Sturgis, Meade County, South Dakota, she is listed as a neice of Fredrick Carter. Her name appears as Ruthe A. Carter. She is 20 years old, single, and was born in South Dakota. Her father was born in New York and her mother's place of birth is given as unknown.⁸ ; Ruth and Agnes. In the census of 2 January 1920 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota, she is listed as a neice of William Herbert Cross. Her name appears as Rose Carter. She is 29 years old, single, and was born in South Dakota. Her parents were born in Connecticut.⁹ Ruth was working as a teacher in McLaughlin, South Dakota. The story of her school was made into a movie entitled "Prairie School." She retired from teaching in 1953 and lived at Humboldt and Harford since.¹⁰

     Ruth Augusta Carter died on 7 September 1958 in Sioux Falls, Minnehaha county, South Dakota, at age 68.^11,4 She is buried Wildwood Cemetery, Salem, McCook County, South Dakota. Services were held at the Congregation Church in Humboldt, South Dakota, given by Rev. Alvin Ricklif.^3,11,4

     OBITUARY: Humboldt, S.D. - Carter, Miss Ruth A., 68. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Congregational Church. Died Sunday at a Sioux Falls hospital. Body will lie in state at the Kinsley Funeral Home until 1 p.m. Tuesday. Born Jan. 29, 1890 at Salem. Taught several years near McLaughlin. The story of the school is now being made inot a movie entitled "Prairie School." She retired from teaching in 1953 and had lived at Humboldt and Hartford since.¹⁰

     Charles Ellsworth Carter was born on 25 August 1891 in Turner County, South Dakota.^2,1 He was the son of John Gilbert Carter and Agnes Eloise Cross.² Charles Ellsworth Carter moved with his parents to Springdale, Washington County, Arkansas. They moved back to South Dakota by the end of 1899; They probably moved to Elm Spring in 1894 or early 1895. John's father, Ichabod Carter, also moved to Arkansas sometime in 1895, probably late 1895 and John and Agnes were already there. Ichabod purchased a farm 5 miles from John's farm in Springdale. They stay in Arkansas for at least three years.^3,4 He survived the death of his mother, Agnes Eloise Carter, who died on 8 November 1899 in Davis, South Dakota. After his mother died, he was raised by his Uncle, William Cross, but returned often to Michigan to visit relatives; her husband, her mother, and four children; Ruth, Charles, Lorna, and Agnes.

      In the census of 4 June 1900 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota, he is listed as the nephew of William Herbert Cross. His name appears as Chas. E. Carter. He is eight years old and was born in August 1891 in South Dakota. His father's birth location is given as New York and his mother's as Michigan. Also living in this household is his grandmother Lucy Cross and his sisters, Ruth and Lorna. His father is living in Delaware with his father, Ichabod Carter.^5,6 In the census of 23 April 1910 in Scipio Township, Hillsdale County, Michigan, he is listed as a boarder in the household of Lilla Culver. His name appears as Charles E. Carter. Lila Culver is his grandmother's sister and also the person who raised and adopted his sister, Agnes, after their mother died. Charles is 18 years old, was born in South Dakota, and is working in the railroad industry. His father's birth location is given as the US and his mother's as Michigan. His sister, Agnes Culver, is also living in this household.⁷

     Charles Ellsworth Carter married Lula Ann Moon on 9 June 1913 in Bendon, Jackson County, Michigan.⁸

     Charles Ellsworth Carter died on 21 September 1961 in Lakeland, Florida, at age 70.⁸

     Lorna May Carter was born on 27 August 1893 in South Dakota.^1,2 She was the daughter of John Gilbert Carter and Agnes Eloise Cross. Lorna May Carter moved with her parents to Springdale, Washington County, Arkansas. They moved back to South Dakota by the end of 1899; They probably moved to Elm Spring in 1894 or early 1895. John's father, Ichabod Carter, also moved to Arkansas sometime in 1895, probably late 1895 and John and Agnes were already there. Ichabod purchased a farm 5 miles from John's farm in Springdale. They stay in Arkansas for at least three years.^3,4 She survived the death of her mother, Agnes Eloise Carter, who died on 8 November 1899 in Davis, South Dakota.

      In the census of 4 June 1900 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota, she is listed as a neice of William Herbert Cross. Her name appears as Lorna M. Carter. She was born in South Dakota and her birth month is given as August. The census list her age and year of birth, but the writing is smudged and unreadable. Her father's birth location is given as New York and her mother's as Michigan. Also living in this household is her grandmother Lucy Cross, her sister, Ruth, and her brother, Charles. Her father is living in Delaware with his father, Ichabod Carter.^5,6

     Lorna May Carter died on 18 September 1903 in Salem, McCook County, South Dakota, at age 10. She was survived by her two sisters, her brother, and her father. She is buried in the Rosehill Cemetery located in Parker, Turner County, South Dakota.²

     Darlene Ann Cunningham was born on 2 October 1936.¹

     Darlene's husband was working as an electrical engineer. He eventually began a career working with computers and they moved around; living in Honolulu, Minneasota and finally setting down in San Jose, California.² In 1998.

     Darlene Ann Cunningham died on 3 February 2003 in Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico, at age 66 of a heart attack. She died while on vacation.³ She was survived by her husband Bob and their three children.