Myrtle?!?!

This is a baptism certificate for the daughter of Gustav Leutz & Maria "Warsha". Let's review for a moment here. Gustav Leutz and Mary Theresa Washa were married June 11, 1881 in Ottawa County, Ohio. They had five children:

• Oscar N. Leutz, born March 22, 1882.
• Myrtle R., born November 18, 1883.
• Lorenz, born December 18, 1887.
• Leon, born November 6, 1890.
• Berlin L., born December 1, 1893.

Just to be sure, I double checked and in the 1900 & 1910 census Mary is listed as the mother of five children with four of them living. (Lorenz died in 1889.) Therefore it would stand to reason that all of the children are listed. So, who is this baptism record for? Well, they only had one daughter and so this baptism record is for . . . . Martha Rebecca? According to the record Martha Rebecca was born on November 18, 1883 in Oak Harbor to the spouses Gustav Leutz and Maria Warsha and was baptized at the Evangelical St. Paul's Church in Oak Harbor on June 8, 1884. (Although when I looked through the records of the Evangelical St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Oak Harbor there is no record of this baptism.) My guess is Myrtle is actually a nickname for Martha but I had never even heard it implied that Myrtle wasn't her given name, have you?

Timeframe: Since it is dated I am going to go out on a limb and say 1884.

Where It Fits: Martha Rebecca is the daughter of Gustav Leutz & Mary Theresa Washa. Obviously she is the sister of Oscar, Lorenz, Leon & Berlin. Martha is the wife of Peter Madison and the mother of Bethel. I believe the sponsors, Carl & Louise Leutz, are the siblings of Gustav Leutz. Gustav has a brother Charles that was in the area and Carl was a very common nickname/translation of Charles. Gustav and Charles also had a sister, Louise. Louise was born in Oak Harbor and I don't believe she was married until late 1884 - early 1885 making her still a Leutz.

Scholar program to honor surgeon

I know it has been a long time since I have posted so I am hoping to get back into the routine. Please feel free to "nag" me a little if I start slacking off again.

My aunt was lovely enough to give me a copy of this article in Indiana back in August at Woody & Brenda's wedding. Sadly I have just now gotten around to sharing it but better late than never so without further ado and with a giant thank you to De Ila . . .

Scholar program to honor surgeon

Scientist will study skeletal disorders

By Liv Osby

STAFF WRITER

The Greenwood Genetic Center is launching a new scholar program to honor the late Dr. Leslis C. Meyer, a Greenville orthopedic surgeon and founder of the Meyer Center for Special Children.

The program was kicked off by the center's board of directors at the Poinsett Club on Thursday with $150,000 in gifts from Meyer's friends.

"Through his many scientific publications and training of several generations of orthopedic scientists, Les Meyer's devotion to scholarship was evident," said Dr. Roger Stevenson, director of the center.

"The Leslie C. Meyer Senior Genetics Scholar position is created as an extension of Dr. Meyer's scholarly pursuits as an international authority on the genetics of skeletal disorders," he said. "The major focus of the scholar's work will be to develop strategies to prevent and cure disabling genetic disorders of the skeleton."

Meyer, who joined the genetic center's Board of Directors in 1995, died in October.

The Meyer Scholar will be a scientist with broad experience in skeletal genetics and will be in residence at the center for a portion of each year offering consultations, teaching and research into skeletal disorders with a focus on treatment. He also will participate in clinics at the Shriner's Hospital, where Meyer was chief of staff.

The Greenwood Genetic Center that provides clinical genetic services and testing, develops education programs and materials, and conducts research in medical genetics.

This was taken from page 2B of The Greenville News; Friday, July 30, 2010.

Where It Fits: Dr. Leslie Meyer was the husband of De Ila Rudes.

**UPDATE** Mr. & Mrs. Hopfinger & Miss Alta

UPDATE: Attention all Christiansen/Johannsen relatives. This update is for you. As you can tell by the post below this image was found among the belongings of Mary Caroline Leutz-Rudes and has been identified as a relative of the same. Upon further research and some e-mails back and forth with Diane Bennett we have confirmed that the girl in this picture is Alta Hopfinger, the Alta Hopfinger that married Neils Christiansen Schmidt a.k.a. Nelson Smith. Neils/Nelson is the son of Carl Schmidt & Augusta Johanna Ketelsen. Augusta is the daughter of Johann Ketelsen & Anna Marie Christiansen. Anna Marie Christiansen is the sister of Marie, therefore Anna is the aunt of Julius & August Johannsen. Augusta & Julius would have been cousins so Alta married the 1st cousin once removed of Julius Johannsen. Obviously mom and dad are not the first branches of the Hopfinger's & Christiansen's to cross paths.

This picture is labeled as "Mr & Mrs Mike Hopfinger" "Mrs. Rose Tilton" "Mrs Caroline Fritsches brother" and last but not least "Miss Alta -Mrs Nelson Smith". While there are a lot of names they are all for the same people. They just made sure there was no mistaking the family.

Timeframe: C.P. Haas a.k.a. Charles P. Haas operated a studio in Fremont, Ohio between 1886 & 1913. 1888 to 1899 he operated on Front Street but there is no address on this card so we have to stick with 1886 - 1913. Alta was born December, 1880 or there abouts and they added another child to the family in November of 1891. Since the youngest child isn't in the picture we can assume it was taken between 1886 & 1891. If you look at Rose her bodice extends below the waist; she has a high with low stand collar; tight sleeves & a draped overskirt that is apron like in shape. That narrows the field to 1883-1889. That would make Alta somewhere between 3 & 9. I am guessing closer to the nine then the three.

Where It Fits: Michael Hopfinger is the brother of Caroline Hopfinger-Fritsche. Caroline & Michael are two of the nine children born to Charles Hopfinger & Friederika Richardson. Michael married Rosella Tilton, the daughter of Levi Tilton. Michael and Rosella had two daughters, Elta/Alta & Laura. Elta/Alta married Nelson Smith. Nelson Smith a.k.a. Neils Schmidt is the son of Carl Schmidt & Augusta Ketelsen. Augusta is the daughter of John Ketelsen & Anna Christiansen.

Ottawa County gun experts mostly happy with concealed carry

For those of you that are not local or just didn't see it, Richard & Terrence Rudes were recently interviewed for the Port Clinton News Herald. Sadly Richard wasn't mentioned but Terry made the front page.

Ottawa County gun experts mostly happy with concealed carry

By James Proffitt

PORT CLINTON --Attorney Terrence Rudes sometimes defends people who commit crimes with guns. Other times, he teaches people how to use and conceal them.

"I've taught concealed-carry classes since 2006," Rudes said. Although he's glad Ohio passed the law that allows citizens to carry guns, he does have issues with it.

"It's the only constitutional right that requires a permit," he said. "It would be like telling someone they have to get a permit to write newspaper articles."

Ottawa County Sheriff Bob Bratton said he had issues about the law when the Ohio legislature passed it in 2004.

"I had concerns at first," Bratton said, "but since then we've had no issues."

According to Bratton, the state's sheriffs, who are responsible for issuing permits, were ill-prepared for the onslaught of paperwork the new law required them to complete.

In 2004, Ottawa County issued 391 permits. Sandusky County issued 187.

But seven years later, Bratton said the process has gone well and he supports the law.

"I've always been big on the second amendment," he said. "I think you should have the right to have guns."

In 2009 Ottawa and Sandusky counties issued 333 and 473 permits, respectively. The counties also renewed a total of 136 permits.

Although many Ohio law enforcement officials made their reservations about Ohioans carrying concealed guns known, most concerns never panned out.

"We've had no problems that I can speak of," Bratton said. "We've never had to go after a card."

Bratton said if a concealed-carry permit holder is arrested for domestic violence or certain other qualifying offenses, they must turn in their permit and weapons.

"They always come in," he said.

In 2009 Ottawa County denied, revoked or suspended a total of 23 permits, and Sandusky County seven.

But retired Ottawa County Common Pleas Court Judge Paul Moon said he thought in 2004 and still thinks it's a terrible idea.

"People shouldn't be carrying around weapons on their person or in their cars," he said.

Moon said during his time on the bench, he didn't have any concealed-carry permit-related cases in his courtroom. Bruce Winters, current common pleas court judge, said he's had just one, and that involved a man who obtained a permit without taking the required 12 hours training.

Dale Ottney, owner of Ottney's Guns in Fremont, said he thinks everyone should carry a weapon.

"A lot of people worry about being broken into and not being able to defend themselves," he said. "And when Obama was elected a whole lot of people came in."

Ottney said many Americans fear that government will curtail second amendment rights.

Both men and women come in, said Ottney.

"A lot of guys come in and buy for their women," he said. "I think I've had three or four couples come in together."

Ottney said 9-mm and .40 caliber are the most popular choices for customers buying guns for concealed carry.

According to Rudes, of the 142 people who have completed his concealed carry courses, 31 were female.

"We get a lot of women that come through," Bratton said. "Not that they're going to carry, but they always have the option."

Since 2004, Ohio sheriff's have issued more than 200,000 concealed-carry permits to its citizens, with more than 56,700 in 2009.

He even managed to have a picture and everything. The original can be found at: http://www.portclintonnewsherald.com/article/20101012/NEWS01/10120305

Five Mystery Men

Okay, I have mentioned before that men are rather hard to date but with five this should be easy. Right? lol I wish! I think the problem with this one is overload of information. According to the 1850's fashion for men the wider, looser fashions were introduced in 1854. Since these men look like they were playing dress-up rather than wearing their everyday clothes I would assume this was after the looser fashions were introduced. Shawl collared vests are evident for the time frame (see the man on the left in the back, the man in the middle of the front row and the man on the right in the front row, POSSIBLY on the back right but I can't tell). Most of the vests of the time were black wool and matched the coats, which looks like a fit to me. The man on the front right is wearing a lighter colored pant which might mean it is starting to get warmer so they would switch from wool pants to a cotton or linen blend. The ties that all the men are wearing, except the man in the middle in the front row, dates from 1857. The softer silk ties (guessing that is what the man in the middle is wearing) are seen through-out the time period. A wide variety of hats were popular in the 1850's BUT the Bowler hat was introduced in the 1850's and that is what appears to be on the knee of the man in the front row, right and on the lap of the man in the middle. The hair is parted at the side and combed back away from the face in a wave. Earlier in this period the wave was HUGE but after about 1855 it started to get smaller. Since they all appear to have a wave I am assuming this was taken closer to the 1857's date of the ties.

I am not sure when or where this was taken but since you can see a wooden floor and drapes in the background I am guessing it was taken by a traveling photographer that had set up a temporary studio or in the subject home (or friend's home). The bench is rather plain and backless, nothing like the fancy furnishing of a photographer's studio. I would also like to point out that all three men in the front row have a cigar or cigarette of some sort. I am not sure that has any effect on identifying this image but it is a piece of trivia I find interesting. Somebody also had painted the cheeks on all the men so there is a nice pink tint on the original image. Does anybody recognize this group? Anybody in this group?

Today's Birthdays are Ada McRitchie-Snitzer, Alissa Fearing, Andrew Hopfinger, Bonnie Schoenfeld-Fearing, Gertrude Zehner-Rohda and Johann Brodehoft.

Leutz Family

This picture was identified for me by Uncle Bob. On the far left we have Myrtle Leutz-Madison. Next one is Leon Leutz, beside him is Berlin, then Oscar, Mary Washa-Leutz and Gustav.

Timeframe: Berlin died in 1919 so obviously it was taken before then since he seems rather lively looking to me. My guess is closer to 1913.

How It Fits: Gustav is the son of Johann Frederick Luetz & Louise Frederica Zink. Mary Leutz is the daughter of John Joseph Washa & Mary Moeureau. Gustav & Mary are the parents of Oscar, Myrtle, Lorenz, Leon & Berlin. Oscar married Myrtle Long, Clara Newton, Bertha Woods and Louise Witt. He is the father of Ivan (with Myrtle) and Grace (with Louise). Myrtle married Peter Madison and is the mother of Bethel Leutz/Madison. Lorenz died in 1889 leaving no spouse or children. Leon married Merle Fritsche and he is the father of Mary Caroline, Robert Leon & A.J. Berlin married Lilly Scholt and he is the father of Beetrice & Monabell.

Todays birthdays are Sadie Stevens-Bay, Mildred Boger, William Kalk and Mary Washa-Leutz would have turned 148 today.

Bird watching?

This is an undated picture of Grandma Mary Cary. Can anybody tell me about when this was taken or where?

Where It Fits: Mary Caroline is the daughter of Merle Rose Fritsche & Leon Leutz. She married Merrill Rudes and they had Merrill, Terrence, Diane & De Ila.

We only have one birthday today so . . . Happy Birthday Eric Gregg! Eric was the son of John Gregg & Cora Rudes.

Isaac M. Floro

ISAAC M. FLORO is numbered among the native sons of Ottawa county, his birth having occurred in Erie township, April 28, 1848, a son of John and Lydia Floro, well known and esteemed people of the community. In the usual manner of farmer lads he was reared, obtaining his education in the district schools of the neighborhood, and aiding in the labors of the farm as soon as he had reached a sufficient age. The occupation to which he was reared he has made his life work, and to-day he is ranked among the progressive and prominent farmers of the township. He is thorough and painstaking in all his work, and his home place, with its neat appearance and good improvements, indicates the sagacious supervision of a careful owner.

On June 6, 1873, at Locust Point, Ohio, was celebrated the marriage of Isaac M. Floro and Miss Mary Finkin, who was born in Erie township, March 16, 1854, and is a daughter of Martin and Elizabeth (Sinclair) Finkin. Her father has now departed this life, but her mother is still living in Carroll township, Ottawa county. Mr. and Mrs. Floro are the parents of children, as follows: Martin, born April 12, 1874; Henry, born June 8, 1876; Nana, born September 25, 1878, now the wife of William Dewitt, a resident of Carroll township, Ottawa county; Hattie, born June 12, 1881; George W., born December 27, 1886; and Calvin L., born July 8, 1892, died August 21, 1893.

Mr. Floro is a justice of the peace in Ottawa county, and has efficiently filled various township offices, discharging his duties with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents. His political support is given to the Democracy, and he is an enterprising citizen, deeply interested in all that pertains to the welfare of the community. He was deputy master of the Ohio State Grange fro Ottawa county for twelve years, having been appointed by Col. J. H. Brigham, then master of the Ohio State Grange.

Source: Commemorative Biographical Record of the Counties of Sandusky and Ottawa, Ohio, containing BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF PROMINENT AND REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS, AND OF MANY OF THE EARLY SETTLED FAMILIES printed by J. H. Beers & Co., Chicago, 1896. Taken from page 665

Where It Fits: Isaac M. Floro is the son of John Floro and Lydia Dear/Deer. Isaac's sister, Anna, married Daniel St. Clair. Daniel & Anna St. Clair and the parents of Jacob, grandparents of Clayton and great-grandparents of Beverly. Beverly married James Johannsen and they are the parents of Cynda, Lynda & Kyle.

Todays birthdays are Anna Danklefsen-Johannsen, Julianer Christiansen, Isaac M. Floro, Franz Godeman, Pauline Neff, Dale Potter & Dorothea Tadsen.

Merle, Florence, Caroline and Who?

I took this picture to Uncle Bob and between the two of us we think we know who three of the five women are. According to Uncle Bob the woman on the left side of the image, first in the row of four, is Florence Hopfinger-Thierwechter. The woman on the complete right of the image is Merle Fritsche-Leutz. Assuming the woman on the porch is the same as this woman her name is Caroline Hopfinger-Fritsche.

Timeframe: Assuming that the oldest woman is in fact Caroline, this picture must have been taken before December, 1910. Looking at the girls dresses you will notice the skirts are smooth at the hips, their belts are moderately wide and the hair is puffed out at the sides dating this image to 1904-1907. Keeping that in mind can anybody ID the other women?

Where It Fits: Caroline Hopfinger-Fritsche is the daughter of Charles Hopfinger and Friedericka Richardson. Caroline is the mother of Merle Fritsche-Leutz. Caroline is the aunt of Florence Hopfinger-Thierwechter. Florence is the daughter of August Charles Hopfinger, a son of Charles Hopfinger & Friedericka Richardson.

Todays birthdays are Carl Leutz, Edward Reif, Justin Rofker and Justina Rofker-Lafer.

Mystery Monday: Graduation or confirmation?

This picture comes from about 1908-1914. If you enlarge the picture you will see a dickey like effect, her skirt is straight with no gathers and her feet show (which started about this time period), her hair is puffed and as I mentioned before the big bow in her hair really narrows the date down a lot. It has been brought to my attention that with the corsage and the white dress it was probably taken for a special event such as a confirmation or a graduation. This was taken at Andrews Studio in Port Clinton, Ohio. Can anybody name this girl?

Todays birthdays are Oscar Bice, Ahrend Kihlken, George Rice, George Taylor, Sarah Short-Golden, Mary Wolf-Riese, Kyle Johannsen & Michelle Fearing-Bannworth. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KYLE & MICHELLE!

Martha McMurray-Taylor

UPDATE:  Lisa Taylor was awesome enough to identify the location of this for us.  In a comment on the original post, she identifies the location as Church Hill, Tennessee in what is now Ruth King's driveway.  Martha was her father's grandmother, her fathers dad was Norman Taylor.  Thank you Lisa!!  

This is a picture of Martha Matilda Alemedia McMurray, the wife of Walter Taylor.

Timeframe: All I know is this was taken before January, 1987. Can anybody else narrow this down a little?

Where It Fits: Martha is the daughter of James McMurray & Mary Blair. She married Walter Taylor and they are the parents of Virgie, William, Lloyd, George, Gladys, Mary, Charles, Edward, Engle, Lawrence, Ruth, Norman & Marjorie.

Todays birthdays are George Avers, Lavina Easterday-Brown, Edward Gates, Mary Lou McRitchie and . . . Martha McMurray-Taylor. Today Martha would have turned 123, she was three months shy of her 100th birthday at the time of her death.

Harold & Gladys Schoenfeld and George & Mildred Taylor

This picture was supplied by Joyce Johannsen-Allen. This is a picture of the wedding of George Taylor & Mildred Beggs, they are the couple on the right. The couple on the left is Harold Schoenfeld & Gladys Taylor. Gladys & George Taylor are sister and brother.

Timeframe: George & Mildred were married on November 11, 1944.

Where It Fits: Mildred Beggs is the daughter of Leo Beggs & Lydia Ohlinger. George & Gladys are the fourth and fifth children of George Taylor & Martha Matilda Alemedia McMurray. Harold Schoenfeld is the son of Charles Schoenfeld & Clara Swanitz.

Todays birthdays are Charles Fritsche, Jack Hardesty, Nelle Meyer, Eveline Kihlken-Nielsen & Roy Rounds.

Scarlett O'Hara?

This image is labeled but still leaves some questions. The back says "Me and Scarlet had a good time that day". Does anybody know who Scarlet is? How about me?

Timeframe: That looks like some rather modern farm machinery so I am guessing it isn't that old.

Where It Fits: GOOD QUESTION!

Todays Birthdays are Caroline Japsen-Johannsen & Clara Robel.

DON'T FREAK!

Today we have a rather odd picture. This is Julius Johannsen, in Lakeview Cemetery, Port Clinton, Ohio. Behind him you see a very cool car and Mathew's Boat Company. Julius is at the headstone of his wife, Caroline Japsen.

Timeframe: Caroline died April 19, 1933 at her home on Sixth Street. She was buried April 22nd so I assume it was right around that time.

Where It Fits: Julius & Caroline are the children of Wilhelm Johannsen & Marie Christiansen and Niels Carsten Japsen & Maria Lorenzen. Julius & Caroline are the parents of William, Marie, Adele, August, John, Nelson, Lilly, Paul and Lawrence.

Today In History: Frieda Christiansen-Deal turns 90, Margaret Kleinhans-Bailey turns 161, John Block turns 145, Amalie Bredbeck turns 152, Perinthia Floro turns 116, Victoria Hopfinger-Quisno turns 141 and Norman Taylor turns 80!

Recipes from the Past - Part VII

Today we have "Lemon Sponge Custard" as found in the Oak Harbor, Ohio Personal Recipes by CIRCLE No. 1, Woman's Society Christian Service, Oak Harbor Methodist Church. It was submitted by Esther St. Clair. Enjoy!

LEMON SPONGE CUSTARD

3/4 c. sugar
3 Tbsp. flour
3/4 tsp. salt
3 egg yolks
1 1/2 c. milk
4 Tbsp. lemon juice
3 egg whites

Mix dry ingredients. Beat egg yolks lightly, add milk, and lemon juice. Beat egg whites stiff and fold into mixture. Pour into casserole and bake in shallow pan of water at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Add whipped cream when serves. Serves six.

Where It Fits: Esther St. Clair is the daughter of Walter Rice & Alpha Humphrey. Esther married Clayton St. Clair and they had four children; Jean, Beverly, Dennis & Karen. Beverly married James Johannsen. James & Beverly are the parents of Kyle, Cynda & Lynda.

Today In History: Julius Jessen and Otto Witt both have birthdays today.

Peter Japsen & Ottiellie Laurens/Lawrence/Lorenz

This is the wedding picture of Peter Japsen & Ottiellie Lawrence.

Timeframe: I do not have the exact date of marriage for Peter & Ottielle but according to the 1900 census they have been marred five years so I assume the wedding took place sometime in 1895 or close there to.

Where It Fits: Peter is the son of Niels Carsten Japsen & Maria Lorenzen. He is the brother of Adele Kadow, Boy, Caroline Johannsen, Christina Olofthausen (or she is the wife of Oloft Hansen, I have seen it both ways) and Louise Christiansen. Ottiellie is the daughter of Ferdinand & Caroline Laurens although their last name can be found as Lorenz, Lawrence and Laurens. She is the sister of Richard & Amelia Steffenhager. Together Peter and Ottiellie are the parents of ten children; including Alma Joss, Laura Wineland, Caroline Weseloh, Mary Weis, Norman, Edward, Arthur, Ruth Burckle & Dorothy.

Todays Birthdays are Mary Van Eman-Allen, Kelly Beggs-Boreman, Gladys Carter-Millard & Mikell Nelson.

Mystery Familie

This is one of those pictures that while not labeled can supply a wealth of information. If we look at the oldest children the girls sleeves and the boys tie date this image to 1893-1896. Specifically the girls sleeves as they were progressively getting bigger and bigger at the top until they were bloused all the way down to their elbows. As you can see from the right hand side of the image it was taken by Bernh. Lassen, Nordseebad, Westerland, a/Sylt. Does anybody recognize this family?

Todays birthday are Marilyn Below-Jennings, Wilhelmina Eybsen & Burton Schwochow.

Grandma Johannsen

This is a picture of Velma.

Timeframe: Taken after 1975 or so as Kymberly Allen's graduation picture is in the background.

Where It Fits: Velma is the daughter of Martha Matilda Alemedia McMurray & Walter Taylor. She married Lorenz/Lawrence Johannsen and they had James & Joyce. After the death of Lorenz/Lawrence she married Alvin Short.

Todays birthdays are Eliza Good-Carter, Myrtle Allen-Jarrett & George McMurray.

A Lieutenant, a Private & Me

This picture is labeled as "Lt. Rise, Pfc. Mardel, Me". I believe the me to be Merrill Rudes. Does anybody know any more information on Lt Rise or Pfc Mardel?

Timeframe: I am guessing pretty much anytime after February 25, 1942, his enlistment date. Especially since this doesn't give a location so I can't narrow it down by that.

Where It Fits: Merrill Rudes is the son of Merrill Rudes & Della Meyer. He is the father of Diane, De Ila, Terrence & Merrill.

Todays birthdays are Mary Davis-Dutton, Henry Finken, Sarah Roberts and Edna Schmidt/Smith-Rullison.

The Whole Rudes Gang

In the most recent batch of photographs I scanned there were a couple group pictures. Boy was I pleased to find these as I was rummaging through things. This is from the water damaged box so I apologize for the shabby copy and if anybody has a better copy or a way of fixing this one I would be much obliged. From what I can make out I believe this to be Della Meyer-Rudes in the back row on the far right side. I believe she has her arm around Diane Rudes. The next row is Merrill in the back, Mary Cary Leutz-Rudes and then Merrill the younger. Terrence is between Merrill & Randy. Behind Randy is his mother, Marian Bringe. Behind Marian is George. Marian appears to be holding on to Connie & De Ila who are the two girls standing on the pillars by the stairs.

Timeframe: I think De Ila and Connie look to be about the same size in this picture as they do in yesterdays so I am guessing it was taken in the 1960's, pre-1963. Correction: There is a date on the bottom of the image that says Sep. 59 so I guess that makes it closer to 1959 than yesterday's 1961. :-) Thanks for pointing that out De Ila.

Where It Fits: Randolph & Connie are the children of George Rudes & Marian Bringe. Diane, Merrill, Terrence & De Ila are the children of Merrill Rudes & Mary Cary Leutz. Merrill & George are the sons of Merrill Rudes & Della Meyer. Della is the daughter of George Harlow Meyer & Marguerite Schnackenberg.

Today's Birthdays are Elizabeth Johannsen, John Meyer, Malinda Disher-Rahm and Kathy Cash.

Happy Birthday Connie!

Today we have a picture that I can tell you A LOT about. In this picture is Merrill Rudes, his daughter (De Ila), his niece (Connie Rudes) and Walt Waggoner. This is at the swearing in of Merrill Rudes as the Municipal Court Judge of Ottawa County, Ohio.

Timeframe: According to the date on the back this was taken November 27, 1961. That makes Connie Rudes 6.5 and De Ila 9 years old.

Where It Fits: Connie is the daughter of George Rudes. De Ila is the daughter of Merrill Rudes. Merrill & George were the sons of Merrill Rudes & Della Meyer.

Today's Birthdays: Herman Ohlinger, Floyd Stoner, Lillian Ohlinger-Nielsen, Angeline Thompson-Caldwell & Connie Rudes. HAPPY BIRTHDAY CONNIE!

Congratulations Woody & Brenda

The surprise went well. Now I am engaged man. Changes lie ahead. - A Wedding in my Future haiku

Facebook status message, April 6th

Look at life's changes. Could August 1st be the day? Only time will tell... - A haiku of wondering

Facebook status message, April 6th

About 8 hours later a response was posted by Brenda:

Wedding date is set. August first we'll say "I do". Much excitement waits! - A confirmation haiku.

Over the Easter holiday weekend, I proposed to my girlfriend, Brenda, while we were on a nature walk. Essentially, I set it up so that on our walk we would be seeking out the nesting site of the very rare "Ruby-hearted gleamcatcher." It turned out that the "gleamcatcher" was actually a ruby and diamond pendant, and the "nest" was its box, which I had previously nestled in a tree.

After I gave it to her, I figured she would be a little disappointed, since we had been discussing the idea of marriage for a while. So, I mentioned that the reason I chose that particular pendant was that it went along so nicely with the ring I had in my pocket (pictured at the start of this article). I took it out and placed it on her finger, asking her to join me forever on that great nature walk of life (OK, those weren't quite the words I used, but they should have been).

To make a long story short, she said "Yes!", so on August 1st...

We're Getting Married!

Taken from the blog of Woodrow Windischman, April 13

CONGRATULATIONS WOODY & BRENDA!

Recipes from the Past - Part VI

Today we have "Apple Dumplings" as found in the Oak Harbor, Ohio Personal Recipes by CIRCLE No. 1, Woman's Society Christian Service, Oak Harbor Methodist Church. It was submitted by Mary Carey Rudes. Enjoy!

APPLE DUMPLINGS

6 apples
1 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. butter
2 c. water
3 c. flour
1 c. lard
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking powder
6-8 Tbsp. ice water

Sift flour and salt and baking powder. Cut in lard. Add water and press into ball. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into six squares. Pare and core the apples. Slice one apple in center of each square. Sprinkle with sugar. Fold corners to center and pinch edges together. Place in greased baking dish. Pour over syrup made by boiling sugar, water, cinnamon and butter together 5 minutes. Bake at 375 degrees for about 40 minutes.

Where It Fits: Mary Cary is the daughter of Leon Leutz & Merle Fritsche. Mary Cary married Merrill Rudes and they are the parents of Diane, Merrill, Terrence & De Ila.

Today In History: Laura Caldwell, Baby Christiansen, Rachel Ogden-Humphrey, Danielle Schoenfeld, Susan Bleher-Snider and Caroline Perry-Winnie all get a year older today.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT JEANNE!

This is a picture of Jeanne Easton and even though the image is slightly water damaged I still think she looks ravishing.

Timeframe: I haven't a clue. She looks to be in her late-teens or early twenties which means it was taken somewhere in the 19_ _'s.

Where It Fits: Jeanne is the daughter of Carlton & Betty Easton. Jeanne married Merrill Rudes and is the mother of Neenah Rudes-Godfrey.

Today's Birthdays: Besides Aunt Jeanne we have Anna Christiansen, James Gamel, Mary Taylor-Milne-McMurray & Josephine Johannsen-Trafalet.

Mystery Monday: Lovely Couple

This picture is almost too easy to date. Looking at the female please note how the bodice is just below her waist and rather tight, the collar is a high stand, the sleeves are tight with three quarter length sleeves and trim at the bottom and she has a draped overskirt which means 1883-1889. Does anybody recognize these faces?

Today's Birthdays: Marie Christiansen-Johannsen, Johann Brodehoft, Christ Christiansen, Martin Floro, Percy Jansen, August Semon, Otto Steffens and Adelheid Schnackenberg-York.

The Three Musketeers

As you can see this picture was taken at Sanders in Chicago, Illinois. This picture is interesting for a couple of reasons. First, I will give you the whole picture. This is a picture I received from Richard Budd. The woman on the right is Marie Christiansen-Johannsen, my great-great-great grandmother.


The woman in the second picture on the right is very obviously Marie. As a matter of fact, if you look at this image she is wearing the same dress or at least the same bodice. It looks like she just modified the sleeves to fit the fashion but the bodice is very much the same. This has given me several questions. Is the woman on the right in both images Marie? Is the woman pouring the beverage the same woman? What was so special about the women in the first image that they decided to repeat the same pose in the second sitting? Did one of the woman live in Chicago and repeat the pose with her Ohio friends/family on a visit? Assuming the first image was taken at the beginning of the puff sleeves and the second image at the end there could be as much as a 10 year aging between the two. Are they the same women or is this just a redo? Obviously the image from Chicago held some importance as Marie had it in her photo album yet she appears in the second image. Any suggestions? How does it strike you, that might give me some ideas?

Today's Birthdays: Eleanor Ball-Debo, Joseph Hunt, August Johannsen, William E. Johannsen, Gordon Joss, Marcia Lemmerman, Mildred Zura-Wolfe.

OFF DAY!

Since I posted twice yesterday . . . OFF DAY!

Today's Birthdays: Earl Christiansen, Martin Ketelsen, Eva McRitchie-Kleinhans & Rollie Quisno

Reversed negative - revisited

After talking to Grandpa today and reading the e-mail from De Ila I decided to stop trying and flip it in my brain. This is what the image should have looked like. That means you can't see Mary Cary's left hand at all so I don't know when it was taken, although Grandma does look rather slender so I am guessing it was before having children. The question still remains, does anybody know who Mich is?

Reversed negative

This is identified, yet a mystery. Amazing how that can happen but . . . I can recognize at least two people in this image. Playing the piano would be Mary Cary. The woman singing beside the piano would be her mother, Merle Fritsche. I am assuming the man in the bibs would be Leon but I can't see his face so I can't be positive. Then we have the young man off to the side. Who would he be? It looks like it could be one of Mary's brothers but is it Bob or A.J.? How about Mich?
That would be the back of the photograph. If you click on it you will see a bigger version in a new tab but if you still can't read it the text says:

P.S. - this is an idea for a new arrangement for the furniture - with the piano on the other side of the room & Mich as a left-handed flutist (negative got in backward)

Can anybody tell me who Mich is? Please and thank you! Can the same person or somebody else explain to me how having a reversed negative would make Mich a left handed flutist?

Timeframe: Since Mary Cary is wearing a ring on her left hand I am assuming this was taken after November, 1941. I don't have anything to narrow it down further. Sorry.

Where It Fits: Mary Caroline is the daughter of Leon Leutz and Merle Fritsche. She is the mother of Diane, De Ila, Merrill & Terrence.

Today In History: Today is the birthday of Herman Carroll, Johan Eybsen, Alice Stevens-Kihlken & Richard Monnett.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT DIANE!

Just a couple things to point out today.

Item Number 1: It is Aunt Diane's birthday
Item Number 2: I now have over 2,000 scanned images with no end in sight.
Item Number 3: It is Aunt Diane's birthday.

Okay, I think I took care of all the business. I believe today's image is Diane playing with her baby sister, De Ila.

Timeframe: The back of this image says "5/15/53". That would mean Diane is 9 and De Ila would be 8 months old.

Where It Fits: Diane and De Ila are the daughters of Merrill Rudes & Mary Leutz. They are the granddaughters of Merrill Rudes & Della Meyers and Leon Leutz & Merle Fritsche.

Today In History: Also having a birthday today are Mary Taylor-Frazer, Paul Hansen, Estella Floro-O'Leary and Elsie Reitz-Smith.

Recipes from the Past - Part V

Today we have "Cranberry Ice" as found in the Oak Harbor, Ohio Personal Recipes by CIRCLE No. 1, Woman's Society Christian Service, Oak Harbor Methodist Church. It was submitted by Esther St. Clair. Enjoy!

CRANBERRY ICE

1 can Ocean Spray cranberry sauce

Bring to boil:
1 c. water
3/4 c. sugar

Cool - add
juice of 2 oranges
juice of 2 lemons

Mix together cooled syrup, cranberry sauce, juice of oranges and lemons, put all through sieve. Freeze in cups or tray. Needs no stirring.

Where It Fits: Esther St. Clair is the daughter of Walter Rice & Alpha Humphrey. Esther married Clayton St. Clair and they had four children; Jean, Beverly, Dennis & Karen. Beverly married James Johannsen. James & Beverly are the parents of Kyle, Cynda & Lynda.

Today In History: Joseph Finken, Leonard Finken and Mary Gallagher-Hunt all get a year older today.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY UNCLE JIM!

Today we have a picture of James Johannsen. Today is his 81st birthday.

Timeframe: This was dated as 1932.

Where It Fits: James Johannsen is the father of Kyle, Cynda & Lynda. James is the son of Lorenz Johannsen & Velma Taylor. He is the grandson of Julius Johannsen & Caroline Japsen and Walter Taylor & Martha McMurray.

Today In History: Those also having a birthday today are Joseph Jeremy, Amy Fox-Brown, Lewis Carnicom, Peter Carstens, Cornelius Fox, Angus Joss, Karoline Eisemann-Leutz, Roy McMurray, Mary Dutton-Pierce, Michael Schoenfeld and Dorothea Knudsen-Tadsen.

Mystery Monday: Oval Man!

This man was found in an oval frame at Grandma Mary Cary's house. As I have explained before dating a picture of a single man is very difficult as their fashions didn't change much. Add to the fact that you can't see much of the mans clothing and I am in a real bind but here goes . . .

According to "Uncovering Your Ancestry through Family Photographs" the descriptions for men that include the collar turned up under the tie would be 1840-1850. Also included in the description for men's clothing of the time are extra long, narrow sleeves (can't be seen), a necktie in a horizontal bow knot (although usually dark colored) and the hair is "ear-length, parted high at one side; clean shaven but fringe beards." I do believe this is the closest fit to his attire, or at least what can be seen of it. For 1850-1870 the collars are folded down over the tie. Nothing after that is even remotely close. In hopes to narrow the era down further I started looking through "Dressed for the Photographer". I found a picture dated from 1849-1851 that consisted of a slightly shorter hair cut (his ears are showing) but it has a pale colored & patterned tie. He also has the same collar "with the standing points of the forties". That collar is seen into the 1850's but the tie disappears after 1852 or 1853. I am guessing that we could safely adjust the time frame to 1845 to 1855, possibly only 1851. The cut of the coat appears to be from the early 1850's assuming that is a seam on the edge of his shoulder. Roughly the same time the ambrotype I posted back in November was taken. This could be a reprint/enlargement made at a later date but I am 98% sure this was taken in the 1840's or 1850's. Is this possibly a couple?

Today In History: Today is the birthday of Tommy Cash, John Christiansen & Rhea Miller.

HAPPY EASTER!

So, no picture today. Just a review on the April Fool's post. How many of you investigated Mr. Stratton? Mr. Stratton was a member of the Barnum and Bailey circus. He is known by his stage name, General Tom Thumb. In case you didn't notice, Mr. Stratton is rather diminutive in size. He was 3.35 foot tall and weighed 71 pounds. How is he related? I haven't a clue. Is he even related? Not that I have figured out. Why was this image at Grandma's house? Good question! I am guessing somebody picked it up when they went to the circus. Even if this isn't Mr. Stratton the only known pictures taken by Mr. Eisenmann were of "circus freaks" including P.T. Barnum himself. Sadly this copy of the image doesn't have the labels on it like some of the other images sold by the circus. I guess that would make things just a little too easy. :-) So, if any of you guys think somebody else in the digital library looks a little more like our subject please let me know! Who knows, I might figure out where I got my height from after all. I hope you all enjoyed your April Fool's and I hope you have a beautiful Easter.

Today In History: Today is the birthday of Mary Johannsen-Boldt, Kay Lytle-Carsten, General McMurray and Sinke Johannsen.

Mother and Baby

Today we have a picture that was not only among the pictures found at Grandma Mary Cary's house but Uncle Bob also had a copy. This is a picture of Grandma Mary Cary with her mother, Merle Fritsche.

Timeframe: Grandma looks to be about a year or so about 1918 or thereabouts.

Where It Fits: Mary Caroline Leutz was the wife of Merrill Rudes and the mother of Diane, Merrill, Terrence & De Ila. Mary Cary is the daughter of Leon Leutz & Merle Fritche. Merle is the daughter of Robert John Fritsche & Caroline Hopfinger.

Today In History: Today is the birthday of Milford Floro & Marion Morse.

Gladys Taylor-Schoenfeld

Today we have a picture of Gladys Taylor and her husband, Harold Schoenfeld. Please keep Glady in prayer today, she broke her ankle yesterday and they are doing surgery on it today. This is her 92nd birthday.

Timeframe: I am guessing this was taken in the late 1930's, early 1940's.

Where It Fits: Gladys is the daughter of Walter Taylor and Martha McMurray. She married Harold Schoenfeld, the son of Charles Schoenfeld & Clara Swanitz. Harold & Gladys are the parents of Robert, Bonnie Fearing, Thomas and Velma Kay Kohlman.

Today In History: Gladys shares her birthday with Kathryn Jacobsen-Budd, Eleanore Godeman, Karoline Kalk, Clara Leutz and Therese Eybsen-Nissen.

Chas. Eisenmann

This is a picture that hasn't been identified or labeled but I believe I know who this is. The back of this photograph says it was taken by Chas. Eisenmann, photographer, No. 229 Bowery, Bet Rivington & Stanton Sts., New York. In order to help narrow down the time this picture was taken I did a Google search for Mr. Eisenmann. It seems he was a very famous photographer in the 1880's. Even more notable is he only took photographs of other famous people. Even better the Syracuse University has a digital library with over 1,411 images taken by Mr. Eisenmann most of which are highly fascinating. So after scrolling through a couple hundred images I think I have finally figured out who our subject is . . . *drum roll please* . . . Charles Sherwood Stratton.

Timeframe: Charles Stratton was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on January 4, 1838 and he died in 1883 at the age of 45.

Where It Fits: Charles Stratton is the son of Sherwood Edward Stratton and Cynthia Thompson. He is the grandson of Seth Sherwood Stratton & Amy Sharpe and Joseph Thompson & Mary Ann Sharpe. Charles married Mercy Lavinia Warren Bump and the couple had no children.

Today In History: Catherine Kromer-Hopfinger is 188 today.

Recipes from the Past - Part IV

Today we have "Pear Pie" as found in the Oak Harbor, Ohio Personal Recipes by CIRCLE No. 1, Woman's Society Christian Service, Oak Harbor Methodist Church. It was submitted by Mrs. Leon Lentz. I am assuming Mrs. Leon Leutz & Mrs. Leon Lentz are one and the same. Enjoy!

PEAR PIE

1 crust, unbaked

Fill crust with finely sliced ripe pears. Mix through pears:
1 c. sugar
1 Tbsp. flour
1/8 tsp. cloves
pinch salt

Dot with butter, lemon juice and 3 Tbsp. cream. Cover while baking. Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes; turn to 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until pears are tender. Remove cover last few minutes.

Where It Fits: Mary Cary is the daughter of Leon Leutz & Merle Fritsche. Mary Cary married Merrill Rudes and they are the parents of Diane, Merrill, Terrence & De Ila.

Today In History: Today Harold Johannsen turns 89 and Peter Madison turns 136.

Matches

This post was delivered to my doorstep yesterday, literally. Jeff Streng was at his step-daughters apartment/house where they had just torn out a wall. It seems inside the wall was a collection of matchbooks and he scarfed this one up and brought it to us. THANK YOU JEFF!

Timeframe: Good question. If you look at the back of the matchbook it was printed after World War II.
Where It Fits: Merrill is the father of Diane, Merrill, Terrence & De Ila. He is the son of Merrill Rudes & Della Meyer. He is the grandson of Carlos Rudes & Lillie Hatch and George Meyer & Marguerite Schnackenberg.

Today In History: Today Rachel Laing turns 16! HAPPY BIRTHDAY RACHEL!

Mystery Monday: 1904-1907

This beautiful young lady has a pouched front, high collar to chin, slight puff on the sleeve of the coat and the hair is puffed out at the sides to help hold up her lovely hat. She is wearing a ring on her right hand that almost comes up to her first knuckle but that appears to be the only jewelry. She is almost picture perfect from 1904-1907 but most certainly the early 1900's. Can anybody identify the lovely lady?

Merrill Rudes

This is Merrill Rudes. I am assuming this is his senior picture but that is simply because of the pose and his age.

Timeframe: If this is a senior picture he graduated from Genoa High School about 1938 or 1939.

Where It Fits: Merrill is the father of Diane, Merrill, Terrence & De Ila. He is the son of Merrill Rudes & Della Meyer. He is the grandson of Carlos Rudes & Lilly Hatch and George Meyer & Marguerite Schnackenberg.

Today In History: Today Friederika Richardson-Hopfinger would be 183.

Joyce Johannsen Allen

Today we have a picture of Joyce Johannsen-Allen.

Timeframe: The back says it was taken October 18, 1938 which would make Joyce five years old.

Where It Fits: Joyce it the mother of Kymberly Allen. She is the daughter of Lorenz Johannsen & Velma Taylor. She is the granddaughter of Julius Johannsen & Caroline Japsen and Walter Taylor & Martha McMurray. She is also 77 years old today! HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMA!

We're goin' to the chapel . . . or house

This picture is labeled as "Flossie Windisch & William Michle Wedding" with "Merle Fritsche bridesmaid" and "Edward Michel bestman". I am assuming the rest of the people in this photograph are probably family, I just need to figure out who is who.

Timeframe: Sadly I don't have the marriage date for William & Flossie but the large hairbow that Merle seemed to be so fond of was popular in the mid-1910's. Think between 1913-1917 or so. Since Merle is listed as a bridesMAID I assume it was taken before October, 1913. After October, 1913 and it would be Merle Leutz, matron of honor. :-)

Where It Fits: Christian Fritsche & Dorothea Langschwanger had ten children; two of which were Robert & Emilie. Robert married Caroline Hopfinger and they had Merle, the bridesmaid. Emilie married Frank Michel and they are the parents of William & Edward Michel.

Recipes from the Past - Part III

Today we have "Quick Beef Stroganoff" as found in the Oak Harbor, Ohio Personal Recipes by CIRCLE No. 1, Woman's Society Christian Service, Oak Harbor Methodist Church. It was submitted by Mary Carey Rudes. Enjoy!

QUICK BEEF STROGANOFF

1 lb. ground beef
2 c. chopped onions
1/3 c. Mazola salad oil
3 1/2 c. uncooked noodles
3 c. tomato juice
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. celery salt
1/2 c. water
1/2 c. sour cream

Saute beef and onions in hot Mazola oil. Place uncooked noodles on top of meat mixture. Mix remaining ingredients, pour over noodles, moistening noodles well. Do not stir. Bring to boil, then turn heat low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until noodles are tender. Use a 3 or 4 quart kettle. Makes 6 servings.

Where It Fits: Mary Cary is the daughter of Leon Leutz & Merle Fritsche. Mary Cary married Merrill Rudes and they are the parents of Diane, Merrill, Terrence & De Ila.

Dale Blair Allen

This is one of my Grandpa's favorite pictures, he even has pictures of my brothers in the same pose at about the same age. This is a picture of my Grandpa's father, Dale Allen. Today he would have turned 106.

Timeframe: I am guessing two or three so roughly 1906 or 1907.

Where It Fits: Dale is the son of Joseph Blair Allen & Sadie Geneva Golden. He married Helen Naomi Stoner and they had nine biological children and one adopted daughter; LeDonna, Donald, Ralph, Richard, Thomas, Virginia, Robert, Carol, Margaret & Deborah.

Robert R. Fritsche

This picture is labeled to the gills. According to the back this is a picture of Robert Fritsche, 3 years, 6 months. According to the front he is "ready for the hay field".

Timeframe: Assuming that the date on the back was very literal this picture was taken in September/October of 1909 as Robert was born March 23, 1906.

Where It Fits: Robert R. Fritsche is the son of Edward Fritsche & Adell Minier. Edward is the son of Christian Fritsche & Dorothea Langschwager making him the brother of Robert J. Fritsche. That makes Merle Fritsche-Leutz the cousin of Robert R. Fritsche.

Mystery Monday: Schultz & Co.

Okay, this is one of the unlabeled but that isn't the only reason this is a mystery. In all of Grandma Johannsen and Grandma Rudes' pictures I have seen this photographer mentioned all of twice. Once on this image and once on an image of an older man, both from Grandma Rudes. There is no mention made of them in Ohio Photographers so I can't narrow the date by their information. You can't see very much of her outfit but I am going to give this my best. Judging by the tie, the hair, the shoulders/sleeves and the earrings this picture was taken in the early 1870's.

Where It Fits: Homemade cookies for the person who can tell me who this is and why they believe it to be them!

Mary Cary, Della, Diane & Merrill

This is another one of those water damaged pictures but I believe I can make everybody out. This appears to be Della Meyer-Rudes, Mary Cary Leutz-Rudes, Diane & baby Merrill.

Timeframe: Looks like the Spring/Summer of 1946 to me.

Where It Fits: Della Meyer married Merrill Rudes. They had Merrill Rudes & George Rudes. Their son Merrill married Mary Caroline Leutz and they had four children. The oldest two children are in this picture, Diane & Merrill.

Merle & the Graduate

Some of you might remember a post with A.J. from last month. For those of you that don't you can see it again here. This is another picture from the same set. I believe this is Mary Cary with her mother, Merle.

Timeframe: Mary Cary graduated from Ohio State University in 1939. I do believe these are some pictures from that event.

Where It Fits: Mary Cary is the mother of Diane, Merrill, Terrence and De Ila Rudes. She is the daughter of Merle Fritsche & Leon Leutz.

Ervin P. Johannsen

UPDATE:  Darla Johannsen's comment on the original post confirms that this is Ervin Paul Johannsen, her father.  She also added "He married Gurneth Schultze, daughter of John Schultze and Alma Blausey."  Thank you very much Darla!  


This is a picture of Ervin Johannsen. Today would have been his 91st birthday.

Timeframe: I am guessing it was taken about the time of his high school graduation so roughly 1937 or 1938. Just a hunch.

Where It Fits: Ervin is the father of Lowell & Darla. He is the son of John Johannsen & Marie Margaret Steffens. He is the grandson of Julius Johannsen & Caroline Japsen and Otto Steffens and Theresa Shilling. He is the great-grandson of Wilhelm Johannsen & Marie Christiansen, Niels Japsen & Maria Lorenzen and Otto Steffens & Adella Gerkan.