John McClelland Athya

John McClelland Athya, son of Isaac Athya and Elizabeth McClelland, was born on February 20, 1898, in Bellshill, Lanarkshire, Scotland. He was one of 11 children born to Isaac and Elizabeth: Elizabeth (Lizzie) Athya, Isaac James Athya, Andrew McClelland Athya, Jane (Jeannie) Wylie Athya, William McClelland Athya, Robert McClelland Athya, Mary Ann Galbraith Athya, John McClelland Athya, Margaret “Peggy” (twin) Athya, Hugh McClelland (twin) Athya, and one unnamed child.

John is my husband’s 1st cousin 2x removed. Their closest shared ancestors are James Athya and Jane Wylie, who were my husband’s second great-grandparents. Another family connection will appear later in the sketch.

At the time of John’s birth, his father Isaac was employed as a lampman at a colliery—a coal mine. A lampman was responsible for maintaining and distributing safety lamps to miners, a critical role in preventing underground accidents. Given the family’s location near Orbiston, Isaac likely worked at the Orbiston Colliery, operated by the Mossend Iron Company. Prior to this, he had worked as a coal miner.

Birth register for John (1898)

Tragedy struck the Athya family before John was born. On Christmas Day 1891, his brother William died in Bellshill from bronchitis after suffering for 14 days. His burial location remains unknown. The informant listed on the death register was Jemima (Durie) Athya, William’s aunt-in-law—wife of James Wylie Athya, who were my husband’s great-grandparents.

Another devastating loss followed when John was just 18 months old. On September 22, 1899, his six-year-old brother Robert was fatally struck by a train on the Caledonian Railway line near the Bellshill police station. Two months shy of his seventh birthday, Robert suffered a compound skull fracture. It’s believed he was walking along the tracks when a passing train hit him, the wind preventing him from hearing its approach. His body was moved to the Bellshill station waiting room and then returned to the Athya home. His burial location is also unknown.

By 1901, the Athya family was living at 59 New Orbiston Rows in Bellshill. Isaac continued working as a colliery lampman, while his wife Elizabeth was listed as a lampman’s wife. Lizzie worked as a domestic servant, and Andrew was employed as a pit pony driver—a demanding job guiding ponies through underground tunnels to haul coal. The family lived in a two-room home with one or more windows.

New Orbiston Rows, built in 1892, housed coal miners and their families. The community included one three-room dwelling and 74 two-room homes, rented annually for £9 19s, roughly equivalent to $48 to $50 USD at the time. These single-story stone structures had brick backs and lacked damp-proofing, though the walls were generally sound. Interiors featured wood flooring and ventilation, and while there were no gardens, residents had access to shared wash houses, coal cellars, and basic sanitation facilities—four ashpits and eight privies. Water came from four standpipes, and outdoor sinks served every four homes in the front row. Drainage channels ran behind the buildings, and the area was cleaned daily as part of a designated sanitary district.

1901 Scotland census

In 1911, the Athya family remained at New Orbiston. Isaac was still a lampman, and Mary worked as a pit head worker—one of the “pit brow lasses” who sorted coal and removed debris at the mine’s entrance. John, Hugh, and Margaret were attending school. Isaac and Elizabeth had been married for 29 years; Elizabeth was listed as having had 11 children, with 8 still living.

1911 Scotland census

Athya children, circa early 1900s: John is the second boy
from the right; the smaller child beside him is his younger brother Hugh.
(Image used with permission from John Sproat.)

On May 27, 1918, John’s sister Mary married her first cousin George Durie Athya, son of James Wylie Athya and Jemima Durie and my husband’s grandfather. George, was a 25-year-old riveter and Corporal with the Cameron Highlanders. The marriage later ended in divorce, and George immigrated to the U.S., where he married my husband’s grandmother, Bertha Edna Smith.

By 1921, John (age 23) was living in a two-room home at 13 Mauldslie Place in Bellshill with his parents, brother Isaac (age 37), and sister Mary (age 26). John worked as a coal miner for the Wilson and Clyde Coal Company. His father and brother were employed there as a lampman and boiler foreman, respectively. Mary and Elizabeth maintained the home. Interestingly, Mary was listed as single despite her earlier marriage to George.

1921 Scotland census

On July 14, 1922, John departed Scotland aboard the RMS Tyrrhenia, bound for Quebec and Montreal. He traveled alone. The ship had just completed its maiden voyage a month earlier and was later renamed Lancastria in 1924 due to pronunciation difficulties. 

RMS Tyrrhenia (back center with tall dark stack).
Photo from Marine Photo Service (Waterline Collection), public domain,
via Wikimedia Commons.

John declared himself Protestant and intended to settle in the U.S. He was a miner seeking work as a farmer, had never lived in Canada, and paid for his own passage. He listed his father at Mauldslie Place as his nearest relative and confirmed he was not tubercular or physically impaired.

John’s entry on the RMS Tyrrhenia passenger list

John’s youngest sister Margaret (Peggy) married Robert Bryson Curran in Toronto on July 31, 1925. The ceremony was held at the Church of God on Albion Street and officiated by Elder Robert Murray.

In May 1928, John traveled third class aboard the S.S. Letitia from Montreal to Glasgow, arriving on May 14. He listed his address as 55 Bain Street in Glasgow, his father’s home. He was employed as a laborer and was 30 years old. His country of last permanent residence was Canada. 

Passenger manifest for the Letitia (May 1928)

He returned to Canada aboard the same ship on August 10, arriving in Quebec on August 18. Records show he had lived in Canada from July 1922 to July 1928, residing in Brantford, Ontario with his sister Mrs. Jean Law at 41 Laurence Street. He listed his father Isaac at 55 Bain Street in Calton, Glasgow as his nearest relative. He had no physical or mental impairments and was not infected with tuberculosis. His passport had been issued in Ottawa on February 5, 1928, and he arrived with $200 in hand.

John’s mother Elizabeth died on June 7, 1928, at age 68, at their Bain Street home. Her cause of death was pernicious anaemia—a fatal condition caused by the body’s inability to absorb vitamin B12. Her burial location remains unknown.

On August 25, 1929, John crossed the border into Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. He listed his sister Mrs. Law as his Canadian contact and his brother Hugh as his U.S. contact. He was traveling alone, recorded his nationality as Canadian, and his race as Scotch. His last permanent residence was Brantford, and he was destined for Detroit. He paid his own passage and had never been in the U.S. before. He was joining Hugh at 2550 Bewick Avenue and planned to stay permanently. He was 5’8”, with a medium complexion, brown hair, and gray eyes, and worked as an underground linesman.

Manifest card the Port of Detroit, Michigan

On October 4, 1929, John filed a Declaration of Intention in Detroit. He was living with Hugh on Bewick Street and was still employed as an underground linesman. He was 31 years old, single, and weighed 145 pounds. His last foreign residence was Brantford, and he had entered the U.S. via the Detroit & Windsor (D & W) Ferry under the name of John Athya (spelled Athaya on the form).

Certificate of Arrival (September 1929)

On June 15, 1929, Hugh married Mary Ellen “Nellie” Balfour in Detroit. John was one of two witnesses. Hugh had also reversed his name, using McClelland as his surname and Athya as his middle name.

John was in the wedding party for his brother Hugh
(image used with permission from John Sproat)

John does not appear in the 1930 U.S. Census, though the Detroit city directory lists him, Hugh, and Mary all living at 2550 Bewick Avenue. John was employed as an electrician, and Hugh as a sub-foreman at Detroit Edison Company. John continued using the surname Athya.

John’s sister Jeannie died on June 15, 1933, at age 44, at her home at 41 Abigail Avenue in Brantford. She likely died from a stroke caused by a cerebral embolism linked to chronic rheumatic heart disease. Her funeral was held at home and conducted by Rev. G. Deane Johnston of Central Presbyterian Church. She was buried at Mount Hope Cemetery on June 17. John and Hugh were among the six pallbearers.

Just three months later, on September 19, 1933, John’s father Isaac died at age 76 at his Bain Street home. He had retired from work as a colliery lamp cleaner. His cause of death was gangrene of the feet and broncho-pneumonia. His burial location is unknown.

By 1934, John, Hugh, and Mary had moved to 4721 Belvidere Avenue in Detroit. John worked as an electrician, and Hugh continued at Detroit Edison. By 1935, they had relocated to Ward Street.

On March 25, 1937, John formally declared his intention to become a U.S. citizen. He stated he had lived continuously in Michigan since August 25, 1929, and was residing at 13217 Ward Avenue, working as an auto worker. He was 39 years old, single, and childless, with gray eyes, brown hair, and a fair complexion.

In the 1940 U.S. Census, John (age 43) was living with his brother Hugh (age 39) and Hugh’s family at their home on Ward Street in Detroit. Hugh’s household included his wife Mary (age 39), daughters Mary (9) and Jean (8), and son Hugh (5). At the time of the census, John was unemployed and had reportedly been out of work for 140 weeks. He was seeking employment as a punch press operator in wheel manufacturing. In 1939, John had worked only 12 weeks and earned $270, while Hugh had worked the full year and earned $1,800. Both brothers had completed four years of high school, suggesting they had graduated. All three children were attending school.

By February 16, 1942, John had moved to 14400 Lauder Street in Detroit and registered for the World War II draft. He listed Hugh, still residing on Ward Street, as his next of kin. At the time, John was employed by Detroit Edison Company, located at 2000 Second Avenue in Detroit. He was described as 5’ 8½”, weighing 150 pounds, with gray eyes, gray hair, and a light complexion.

World War II draft registration card

In March 1942, while still living at the Lauder Street address, John petitioned for U.S. citizenship in Detroit. He was single and had no children. His petition was supported by two witnesses—Leland Yost and Charles Cummings—who attested to his good character and continuous residence since 1937.

That same year, on April 24, 1942, John’s sister Margaret (Peggy) passed away in Victoria, British Columbia. Her burial location remains unknown.

On May 12, 1942, John formally swore the Oath of Allegiance and renounced prior loyalties. 

Oath of Allegiance (1942)

On that same day, he legally changed his name from John McClelland Athya to John Athya McClelland, reversing his middle and surname in a manner like his brother Hugh, who had done so as early as 1930. John’s naturalization petition was approved in open court.

Naturalization Certificate Stubs certifying John’s name change

 

Naturalization Petitions Recommended to be Granted (May 1942)

Despite extensive searches, John does not appear in the 1950 U.S. Census. His brother Hugh was still living at 13217 Ward Avenue in Detroit—the same address John listed as his residence on an air passenger manifest later that year. However, John was not recorded in the household; only Hugh, his wife, and their three children were enumerated. Since the census was conducted in April, it’s possible John was in Scotland at the time.

Supporting this theory, John appears on an air passenger manifest dated June 29, 1950, traveling from Prestwick, Scotland to Montreal aboard Trans-Canada Air Lines flight 2211-29. He listed his home address as 13217 Ward Avenue—the same address he had used in 1929.

John passed away in Michigan on December 30, 1965. He was laid to rest at Glen Eden Memorial Park in Livonia, Wayne County, Michigan. No evidence has been found that John ever married.

Image used with permission of S. L. Iglesias,
Find a Grave member 46812202

John’s story was particularly challenging to research due to his name change and the many variations in spelling across records. Searches must include Athya, McClelland, McClellan, McLelland, and McLellan, and span records from Scotland, Canada, and the United States.

References

• 1137682, RG 21, Naturalization Petition and Record, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern Division, Detroit: Wayne. Petitions for Naturalization 1942, images 442–446, FamilySearch.
• 18222300, RG-21, Naturalization Certificate Stubs, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern Division, Detroit: Wayne. Naturalization Final Certificates, 1942, image 1133, FamilySearch.
• 18462267, RG-21, Naturalization Court Order Books, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern Division, Detroit: Wayne. Naturalization Records Sep 16, 1941–May 29, 1942, image 707, FamilySearch.
• Boy Killed on the Railway, Daily Record, Glasgow, Strathclyde, Scotland, September 23, 1899.
• Deaths, Curran, The Expositor, Brantford, Ontario, Canada, May 2, 1942.
• Detroit, Michigan, City Directory, 1930, 1934.
• Elizabeth Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/3 239, National Records of Scotland, 1928.
• Fatal Accident on Caledonian Railway, Hamilton Advertiser, Hamilton, Strathclyde, Scotland, September 23, 1899.
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/183324329/john_athya-mcclellan: accessed September 3, 2025), memorial page for John Athya McClellan (20 Feb 1898–30 Dec 1965), Find a Grave Memorial ID 183324329, citing Glen Eden Memorial Park, Livonia, Wayne County, Michigan, USA; maintained by S. L. Iglesias (contributor 46812202).
• George Durie Athya/Mary Ann Athya marriage, Statutory Registers Marriages 644/10 1036, National Records of Scotland.
• Housing Conditions of Miners, Bothwell Parish, Scottish Mining Website; http://www.scottishmining.co.uk/236.html. 
• Hugh A. McClelland, Michigan, U.S., Marriage Records, 1867–1952. 
• Isaac Athya, Census 098/33/13, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• Isaac Athya, Census 625/112/124, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• Isaac Athya, Census 625/310/2, National Records of Scotland, 1911.
• Isaac Athya, Census 625/311/26, National Records of Scotland, 1921.
• Isaac Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/1 45, National Records of Scotland, 1884.
• Isaac Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 644/3 227, National Records of Scotland, 1933.
• Isiac Athya, Census 625/314/16, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• Jane Wyllie Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/1 555, National Records of Scotland, 1887.
• Jeannie Wylle Law, Province of Ontario, Certificate of Registration of Death no. 306, 1933.
• John Athya McLelland, Border Crossings: From Canada to U.S., 1895–1956.
• John Athya, Canada, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1865–1935.
• John Athya, Canada, Ocean Arrivals (Form 30A), 1919–1924.
• John Athya, Canadian Passenger Lists, 1865–1935.
• John Athya, Detroit Border Crossings and Passenger and Crew Lists, 1905–1963.
• John Athya, Detroit, Michigan, U.S., Border Crossings and Passenger and Crew Lists, 1905–1963.
• John Athya, Michigan, U.S., Federal Naturalization Records, 1887–1931.
• John Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/3 107, National Records of Scotland, 1898.
• John Athya, U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940–1947.
• John Athya, UK and Ireland, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878–1960.
• John Athya, UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890–1960.
• Lizzie Athya, Census 625/314/17, National Records of Scotland, 1901.
• Married, Curran-Athya, The Expositor, Brantford, Ontario, Canada, August 1, 1925.
• Mrs. John D. Law, The Expositor, Brantford, Ontario, Canada, June 16, 1933.
• National Coal Mining Museum for England, “Pit Ponies and Their Drivers,” accessed September 2, 2025; https://www.ncm.org.uk/news/voices-in-the-coalshed-pony-drivers/.
• New Orbiston Rows, Housing Conditions of Miners, Scottish Mining Website; http://www.scottishmining.co.uk/236.html. 
• Our Records: Irregular Marriage in Scotland, ScotlandsPeople; https://www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk/article/irregular-marriage-scotland. 
• RMS Lancastria; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RMS_Lancastria. 
• Robert McClelland Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 625/3 193, National Records of Scotland, 1899.
• To the Grave: Mrs. John Law, The Expositor, Brantford, Ontario, Canada, June 19, 1933.
• U.S. Federal Census, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, 1940.
• Victoria Genealogical Society Burial Index Part 2, Royal Oak Burial Park, Victoria BC, 2016; https://www.interment.net/data/canada/bc/van_island/vancouver-island-burial-records-royal-oak-burial-park.pdf?highlight=WyJKYW1lcyBEZWFyaW5nIl0=.
• William McClelland Athya, Statutory Registers Births 625/1 313, National Records of Scotland, 1891.
• William McClelland Athya, Statutory Registers Deaths 625/1 453, National Records of Scotland, 1891. 

Nathan Atkinson gifts Annecha to daughter, Rhoda Rowland

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records.

Be it known to all persons whom these presents may or shall concern that I Nathan Atkinson of the County of Greene and State of Georgia and for the love and affection I bear unto my daughter Rhoda Rowland by these presents do give, grant, and confirm unto my daughter Rhoda Rowland one Negro girl named Annecha which said Negroe [sic] I the said Nathan Atkinson do give unto my daughter Rhoda Rowland and her heirs forever which I the said Nathan Atkinson do forever warrant and defend all rights, titles, claims against the said Negroe unto my daughter Rhoda Rowland and her heirs forever. As witness I hereunto put my hands and seal this 29th day of December 1810. – Nathan Atkinson (seal)

Test. Sterling Northington, Benjamin Futral, James Stallions

Georgia, Greene County This day came before me, Sterling Northington and being sworn saith that he was a subscribing witness to the above deed of gift and that he did see Nathan Atkinson sign the same for the above mentioned purpose.

Sterling Northington

Sworn to before me this 9th February 1811. 
Wm. Johnson, J.P. 
Recorded 23rd March 23 1812, John Bethune, Clerk

Reference

Greene County, Georgia, Deeds 1816–1818, 1811–1815, 1810–1811, image 153, FamilySearch. 

Mary Jennie Horne

Mary Jennie Horne was born around 1863 in Pennsylvania, the second of eight children born to Moses Horne and Elizabeth Larimer. Her siblings were: Amanda Larimer Horne, Mary Jennie Horne, Lydia Enna (or Etta or Emma) Horne, Josephine “Jo” B. Horne, Olean (or Olena or Ollie) R. Horne, George Richard Horne, William Alexander Horne, and Keziah “Kizzie” Chambers Horne. 

Mary is my husband’s 2nd great-aunt; their closest shared ancestors are her parents, who are also my husband’s 2nd great-grandparents.

In 1860, the Horne family lived in Peebles Township, Allegheny County. By 1870, they had relocated to Washington Township in Westmoreland County, making either location a possible birthplace for Mary.

On July 8, 1870, the family was recorded in the Manor Dale community of Washington Township. Mary’s father, Moses, worked as a carpenter, with real estate valued at $1,200 and a personal estate of $500. Her mother Elizabeth managed the household, which included six of their eight children. Mary, Amanda, and Lydia were attending school, while Josephine, Olean, and baby George (just five months old) remained at home. Also living with them was Mary’s 75-year-old paternal grandmother, Mary (Brown) Horne.

Finding this census record was a challenge due to a transcription error—“Worn” instead of “Horn” or “Horne.” Mary was listed as Mary J., age 9.

Mary’s brother, William, born November 23, 1871, likely died in infancy. Around 1875, the family moved to Apollo in Armstrong County, where her father Moses became active in local politics and the family joined the Apollo United Methodist Church.

By June 25, 1880, the Hornes were settled in Apollo. Mary was enumerated as “Jennie,” age 17. Her father had shifted careers and was now a dealer in groceries, likely assisted by 10-year-old George, who worked as a store clerk. Her mother continued her role as housekeeper, and sister Amanda had become a dressmaker. My husband and I are in possession of a dress made by Amanda. Mary, Lydia, Josephine, Olean (listed as “Ollie”), and George were all attending school.

This 1880 census is the last online record I have found for Mary.

Mary does not appear in the 1900 census. That year, her mother Elizabeth reported having had eight children, with only five still living. I have documented the deaths of Amanda (1943), Lydia (1923), Josephine (1941), George (1915), and Keziah (1953), which suggests that Mary, Olean, and William were the three children who had passed away by 1900.

Although a death notice for a Jennie Horne appeared in the Pittsburg Dispatch on May 10, 1892, the age discrepancy—nearly nine years—raises doubts about whether it refers to the same individual. The notice mentions St. John’s Church in Pittsburgh, which seems inconsistent with her family’s known affiliation with Apollo United Methodist Church in Apollo. Given the distance and the family’s local ties, it is unlikely her funeral would have been held in Pittsburgh, suggesting this may be a different person altogether.

Pittsburg Dispatch, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 10, 1892

Mary’s parents and sister Josephine are buried in Apollo’s Riverview Cemetery, leading me to believe that Mary may be buried there as well—perhaps in an unmarked grave or one lost to time.

References

• Died, Horne, Pittsburg Dispatch, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 10, 1892.
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/192286191/moses-horne: accessed September 2, 2025), memorial page for Moses Horne (6 Apr 1833–11 Apr 1910), Find a Grave Memorial ID 192286191, citing Riverview Cemetery, Apollo, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, USA; maintained by Danica Jack (contributor 48068126).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/192285915/josephine-horne: accessed September 2, 2025), memorial page for Josephine “Jo” Horne (15 Dec 1864–24 Mar 1941), Find a Grave Memorial ID 192285915, citing Riverview Cemetery, Apollo, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, USA; maintained by Danica Jack (contributor 48068126).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/192286127/elizabeth-horne: accessed September 2, 2025), memorial page for Elizabeth Larimer Horne (12 Nov 1831–1 May 1913), Find a Grave Memorial ID 192286127, citing Riverview Cemetery, Apollo, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, USA; maintained by Danica Jack (contributor 48068126).
• George R. Horne, Certificate of Death no. H5054, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics, 1915.
• Miss Josephine Horne, Certificate of Death no. 25609, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics, 1941.
• Mrs. Amanda Smith, Certificate of Death no. 10335, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics, 1943.
• Mrs. Keziah C. Shepler, Certificate of Death no. 9961, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics, 1953.
• Mrs. Lydia Henry, Certificate of Death no. 91353, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics, 1923.
• U.S. Federal Census, Apollo, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, 1880.
• U.S. Federal Census, Apollo, Armstrong, Pennsylvania County, 1900.
• U.S. Federal Census, Peebles Township, Alleghany County, Pennsylvania, 1860.
• U.S. Federal Census, Washington Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, 1870.
• William Alexander Horne, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, U.S., Church and Town Records, 1669-2013, PA – Armstrong, Apollo United Methodist Church. 

Samuel Baldwin gifts Judy, Julian, and Letitia to his sister, Patsey Rains

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records.

Whereas I, the undersigned Samuel Baldwin of the County of Greene and State of Georgia, on the 31st day of December 1816, did loan to my sister Patsey Rains of Franklin County, Tennessee, during her lifetime, a negro woman named Judy and her increase, and at her death did give to the children of Patsey Rains the said negro woman and her increase by a writing under my hand and seal of that date and for the consideration therein expressed. Now therefore in confirmation of said loan to Patsey and gift to her children, and to support the uses expressed in said deed of 31 of December 1816 and for the consideration of natural love and affection toward my said sister Patsey Rains in said writing and still existing and in consideration of the sum of one dollar to me in hand paid by William Wilson of the county of Franklin and state of Tennessee, I have and by their presence doth give, convey, and confirm to the said William Wilson the legal title (which has heretofore since the making of said writing of the 31st of December 1816 until this time remained in me) to the said negro woman Judy and her present increase (Julian and Letitia and her future increase if any to have and to hold the same William Wilson, his heirs and assigned forever in trust for the sole use and benefit of my said sister Patsey Rains during her lifetime and after her death, to the sole use and benefit of her children agreeable to the uses and purposes mentioned in said writing of 31st December 1816. Which this deed is by no means to change, alter, or avoid so far as it relates to the use of the negroes by the said Patsey Rains during her life and of the interest of her children after her death, but which uses and interest this deed is intended more effectively to provide for and protect and for that purpose I have conveyed the legal title to said negroes out of myself and vested it in said Wilson as trustee aforesaid. Given under my hand and seal this 15th day of January 1823.

Samuel Baldwin (Seal)
In presence of Robert Findley, John Foster, Thomas Rasbury

Reference

• Greene County, Georgia, Deeds 1821–1826, 1818–1821, image 360, FamilySearch.

Margaret Lou Roberts

Margaret Lou Roberts was born in Sevierville, Sevier County, Tennessee on February 15, 1897. She was the daughter of James Jonathan Roberts and Appie Ellen McCarter, and the third of nine children: Daniel Nathaniel Roberts, Mary Jane Roberts, Margaret Lou Roberts, John Earnest Roberts, Rhoda Ellen Roberts, James Isaac Roberts, Virgie Lee Roberts, Ray Cates Roberts, and Stella Mae Roberts. Margaret married my 2nd great-uncle, though we share no common relative.

On June 21, 1900, the Roberts family lived in a rented home in the 5th Civil District, northeast of the Pigeon River in Sevier County. At that time, Margaret’s parents had been married for eight years. Her father, James, was six and a half years older than her mother, Appie, who had given birth to four children, all of whom were living. Margaret’s youngest brother was 11 months old. James worked as a farm laborer and was literate, while Appie could read but not write. Living next door were Margaret’s paternal grandparents, John (73) and Nancy (59) Roberts, along with an adopted son, Napolian King (11).

By May 2, 1910, the Roberts family had grown and relocated to a rented farm in the 4th Civil District of Sevier County. James continued working as a farmer on a general farm, and his son Daniel assisted as a farm laborer. Given the rented status of the farm, James may have been a tenant farmer. Appie had given birth to 11 children, with seven still living. Her youngest daughter, Virgie, was five months old. Margaret was now able to write as well as read. Daniel, age 17, could read but not write and was not attending school. Margaret, her sisters Mary and Rhoda, and brothers John and James were all attending school. Margaret and Mary were literate, while John could read but not write.

When the U.S. entered World War I on April 6, 1917, men registered for the draft. Margaret, then 20 years old, married James “Jim” Daniel Rhinehart on July 15, 1917, in Sevier County. Jim was the son of William Dearnald Rhinehart and Roda Elizabeth Sneed.

He had registered for the draft on June 5, and the couple likely anticipated his departure for military service. They had three months together before Jim was ordered to report on October 23, 1917. During the war, Jim served as a Wagoner in the Supply Company of the 318th Field Artillery. His duties included caring for and driving wagons, feeding and grooming animals, cleaning stables, repairing equipment, and harnessing horses. Though the war ended in November 1918, demobilization took time, and Jim did not return to the U.S. until June 1919. On his return voyage aboard the U.S.S. Siboney, he listed Margaret as his emergency contact, spelling her name as “Margerite.” Her address was recorded as R.F.D. #3 in Sevierville.

Margaret and Jim, who was seven years her senior, had two daughters: Anna “Ruth” Roberts, born in 1920, and Jean Roberts, born in 1930. 

On January 20, 1920, the couple lived in a rented home in the 4th Civil District of Sevier County. Margaret, age 22, had not yet had children. Jim worked as a merchant in a general store, while Margaret maintained the household. Both were literate.

By April 4, 1930, the family lived in a rented home on Emert Avenue in Sevierville, paying $8 per month. Jim was employed as a laborer in a flour mill, and their daughter Anna was nine years old.

Margaret’s mother, Appie, passed away on June 8, 1935, at age 59 from amoebic dysentery—a serious intestinal infection caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica, often spread through contaminated water or food. Without treatment, it can lead to dehydration, organ failure, or infection of vital organs. Appie was buried at Roberts Methodist Church Cemetery in Richardson Cove in Sevier County on June 10.

By April 4, 1940, the Rhineharts remained on Emert Avenue. Jim was employed as a carpenter for a lumber manufacturer. Three lodgers—Hazel Whaley (20), Gladys Lafoltette (24), and Ruth Loveday (19)—lived with them. The Rhineharts had connections to both the Whaley and Loveday families, suggesting Hazel and Ruth may have been distant relatives. All three lodgers worked in a hosiery mill.

Margaret’s sister Rhoda died on January 19, 1945, in Sevierville after battling tuberculosis of the lungs for five years. She was buried at Roberts Methodist Church Cemetery in Richardson Cove.

On April 7, 1950, Margaret and Jim lived on Park Road in Sevierville. Jim was marked as “U” (unable to work), while Margaret was listed as “H,” presumably indicating housewife. Neither was seeking employment.

Jim was a great support to my mother during a few turbulent years in the early 1950s. He could not have done this without Margaret’s support. I am thankful to both for that.

In October 1956, Margaret obtained a delayed birth certificate. At the time, she lived on Prince Street in Sevierville. Her 86-year-old father certified the information on the application in August 1956. A little over a year later, he passed away in November 1957 at age 87. James Roberts was buried at Roberts Methodist Church Cemetery in Richardson Cove following a service at Rawlings Chapel officiated by Rev. Walter Clabo.

In March 1959, Margaret was recognized in the Tri-County News for her devoted work in the kitchen at the Church of God Home for children on Park Road. Known for her warm hospitality and exceptional baking—especially her chocolate pies and cakes—Margaret took pride in preparing meals the children loved, including her famous spaghetti and meatballs, which the newspaper printed a recipe for.

Tri-County News, Sevierville, Tennessee,
March 20, 1959

On September 14, 1959, Margaret’s home on Prince Street was filled with the spirit of generosity and fellowship as she hosted the final meeting of the Lingerfelt B.W.C.—a Baptist Women’s Circle devoted to service, study, and spiritual growth. The gathering resembled a festive Christmas party, featuring Secret Pal gift exchanges, donations of clothing for a family in need, and a cake sent from Nashville by her daughter. Twenty members attended, and the meeting included the election of new officers and a study of Oklahoma Indian culture.

Margaret’s brother James died on December 5, 1963, after battling pancreatic cancer for two years. Her brother Daniel passed away on October 26, 1965, from bladder cancer. Both died at Baptist Hospital in Knoxville and were buried at Roberts Methodist Church Cemetery. Her sister Stella died on June 7, 1968, at Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville and was buried at Sherwood Chapel and Memorial Gardens in Alcoa following a service at Wildwood Baptist Church.

Margaret and Jim continued living on Prince Street until Jim’s death at age 80 on January 29, 1971, at the VA Hospital in Mountain Home—a special area located within Johnson City, Tennessee. Mountain Home includes the National Cemetery and several buildings used by East Tennessee State University’s medical school. Though it has its own postal zone, it is officially part of Johnson City. He was buried at Shiloh Memorial Cemetery in Pigeon Forge following a service at Rawlings Funeral Home officiated by Revs. David C. Sharp and Grant Jones.

After Jim’s death, Margaret moved to High Street in Sevierville, where she lived until her passing at Baptist Hospital on June 11, 1975. She was buried on June 13 at Shiloh Memorial Cemetery beside her husband, following a service at Rawlings Chapel officiated by Rev. Melvin Lonas. Margaret was survived by her daughters Ruth and Jean, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, two sisters, and two brothers. At the time of her death, she was a member of the First Baptist Church in Sevierville.

Tombstone photos by Liz Olmstead, Find a Grave ID 46772820

References

• Aunt Beth’s Corner, Tri-County News, Sevierville, Tennessee, March 20, 1959.
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/117567771/stella_mae-mcmahan: accessed August 23, 2025), memorial page for Stella Mae Roberts McMahan (10 May 1914–Jun 1968), Find a Grave Memorial ID 117567771, citing Sherwood Chapel and Memorial Gardens, Alcoa, Blount County, Tennessee, USA; maintained by pcarney (contributor 47051010).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/26112077/margaret_lou-rhinehart: accessed August 23, 2025), memorial page for Margaret Lou Roberts Rhinehart (15 Feb 1897–11 Jun 1975), Find a Grave Memorial ID 26112077, citing Shiloh Memorial Cemetery, Pigeon Forge, Sevier County, Tennessee, USA; maintained by Michelle Hamlin Peterson (contributor 47364888).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/29451831/nancy_jane-roberts: accessed August 23, 2025), memorial page for Nancy Jane Clabough Roberts (25 Nov 1830–31 Dec 1912), Find a Grave Memorial ID 29451831, citing Roberts Cemetery, Richardson Cove, Sevier County, Tennessee, USA; maintained by icedobe (contributor 46868126).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/109543185/daniel_nathaniel-roberts: accessed August 23, 2025), memorial page for Daniel Nathaniel Roberts (9 Sep 1892–26 Oct 1965), Find a Grave Memorial ID 109543185, citing Roberts Cemetery, Richardson Cove, Sevier County, Tennessee, USA; maintained by Victor E. Everhart, PhD (contributor 47774451).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/117519537/rhoda_ellen-king: accessed August 23, 2025), memorial page for Rhoda Ellen Roberts King (21 Jan 1902–19 Jan 1945), Find a Grave Memorial ID 117519537, citing Roberts Cemetery, Richardson Cove, Sevier County, Tennessee, USA; maintained by pcarney (contributor 47051010).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/88474913/virgie_lee-roberts: accessed August 23, 2025), memorial page for Virgie Lee Roberts Roberts (12 Dec 1909–9 Oct 1997), Find a Grave Memorial ID 88474913, citing Middle Creek Cemetery, Sevierville, Sevier County, Tennessee, USA; maintained by Helen Collins (contributor 47660252).
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/125246912/ray_cates-roberts: accessed August 23, 2025), memorial page for Ray Cates Roberts (10 May 1912–Sep 1980), Find a Grave Memorial ID 125246912, citing Grandview Cemetery, Maryville, Blount County, Tennessee, USA; maintained by Kimberly Jo Smith (contributor 47803638).
• James D. Rhinehart, The Knoxville News-Sentinel, Knoxville, Tennessee, January 31, 1971.
• James I. Roberts, Certificate of Death no. 63-34762, State of Tennessee, Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Statistics, December 1963.
• James I. Roberts, The Knoxville Journal, Knoxville, Tennessee, December 6, 1963.
• James Isaac Roberts, U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940–1947.
• James J. Roberts, The Knoxville Journal, Knoxville, Tennessee, November 26, 1957.
• John Earnest Roberts, D-478446, Tennessee, Delayed Birth Records, 1869–1909.
• Margaret L. Roberts, U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936–2007.
• Margaret Lou Roberts, no. D-478438, Tennessee, Delayed Birth Records, 1869–1909.
• Margaret Rhinehart, Social Security Death Index.
• Margaret Roberts Rhinehart, The Knoxville News-Sentinel, Knoxville, Tennessee, June 12, 1975.
• Mary Jane Roberts, D-485428, Tennessee, Delayed Birth Records, 1869–1909.
• Mostly About Seviervillians, Tri-County News, Sevierville, Tennessee, September 18, 1959.
• Mountain Home, Tennessee; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountain_Home,_Tennessee. 
• Mrs. Appie Ellen Roberts, Certificate of Death no. 13804, State of Tennessee, Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Statistics, October 1935.
• Mrs. Margerite Rhinehart, U.S., Army Transport Service, Passenger Lists, 1910–1939.
• Obituaries, Mrs. Clay McMahan, The Knoxville News-Sentinel, Knoxville, Tennessee, June 9, 1968.
• Rhoda King, Certificate of Death no. 3482, State of Tennessee, Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Statistics, January 1945.
• Rite of Matrimony, James Rhinehart and Margaret Roberts, July 1917.
• U.S. Federal Census, Civil District 4, Sevier County, Tennessee, 1910, 1920.
• U.S. Federal Census, Civil District 5, Sevier County, Tennessee, 1870, 1900.
• U.S. Federal Census, Sevierville, Sevier County, Tennessee, 1930, 1940, 1950. 

12 slaves sold, 8 named: Property of Samuel Baldwin's estate

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records. 

The estate of Samuel Baldwin, deceased

A schedule of property belonging to the Estate of Samuel Baldwin, deceased, sold on the first Tuesday in January 1842, on credit until December of the same year, as returned by the executor:

• Land: 380 acres, more or less, sold to Mrs. Nancy Baldwin – $1,000.00
• Negro man Dennis, Jas. K. Daniel – $85.00
• Negro man Cain, Mrs. N. Baldwin – $515.00
• Negro man Abram, Catlett Campbell – $540.00
• Negro man Jacob, William Watson – $725.00
• Negro woman Peggy and child, S. B. Baldwin – $435.00
• Negro woman Eay and her three children, Catlett Campbell – $1040.00
• Negro woman Maria, Catlett Campbell – $500.00
• Negro girl Adaline, Catlett Campbell – $540.00

Total amount of sale: $5,381.00

Greene County, Georgia

Personally came into office James M. Porter, Executor of Samuel Baldwin, deceased, and made oath, that the above sales of land and enslaved persons belonging to the estate of said Samuel Baldwin are just and true.

James M. Porter

Sworn to January 21, 1843 
William L. Strain, Clerk

Examined and approved, 21 Jan. 1843

March Term 1843. Examined and admitted 
J. R. Hau, Chin.

Recorded, 18 April 1843

W. L. Strain, Clerk

Reference

• Greene County, Georgia, Probate Records 1842–1851, image 50, FamilySearch.

Essie Lee Murphy

Essie Lee Murphy, daughter of Martin William Murphy and Sarah Elizabeth Anderson, was born in Littleton, Wetzel County, West Virginia, in July 1889. Although no official birth record has been located, her Find a Grave memorial lists her birthdate as July 3. Essie was the 4th of 11 children, born into a large family: Cora Belle Murphy, Edward “Ed” Francis Murphy, Charles Homer Murphy, Essie Lee Murphy, William “Willie” H. Murphy, Ella Mae Murphy, Arliff Barow Murphy, Tabitha M. Murphy, Cecil Pearl Murphy, Addie Opal Murphy, and Olive Ruby Murphy.

Essie is my husband’s great-aunt. Their closest shared ancestors are her parents—my husband’s great-grandparents.

In 1898, when Essie was just nine years old, her younger sister Tabitha passed away. She was laid to rest at Anderson Bethel Cemetery in Littleton.

By June 23, 1900, the Murphy family was living in a rented home in the Clay District of Wetzel County. Martin and Sarah had been married for 16 years, and Sarah had given birth to nine children, eight of whom were still living. Martin worked as a teamster, likely driving a team of horses, mules, or oxen to haul timber, coal, farm goods, or supplies between towns—a demanding and essential job in rural West Virginia.

Essie, her parents, and brother Charles were literate, while her older brothers Edward (16) and William (11) were not. The youngest child in the household, Cecil, was just two years old. The family was surrounded by relatives: her grandparents Lewis and Mariah (Eckelberry) Anderson, aunts Dora and Emma, and cousin Earl Bissett (Dora’s son) lived three doors down. Her uncle Henry Anderson, his wife, and four children lived two doors away, next to her grandparents.

On September 23, 1907, Essie married Frank Oscar Grimm, son of Eldoras “Oscar” Grimm and Sarah “Armenia” Gossett, in a ceremony officiated by Rev. D. H. Reid, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church in New Martinsville. Essie was 21; Frank, 24. He was born in Marshall County, West Virginia.

Soon after their wedding, Essie and Frank moved to Warwood, in Ohio County, where they welcomed three children:

• Harry Lee Grimm (1908)
• Elsie Mae Grimm (1910)
• Ruth Louise Grimm (1912)

By April 25, 1910, the family was renting a home in the Richland District of Ohio County. The census recorded two years of marriage and one living child. At the time, Essie was just 10 days away from giving birth to their second child, Elsie. Frank worked as a house carpenter, and a 27-year-old divorced woman named Flora McGill lived with them, employed as a servant. Flora had four children, all living. Essie, Frank, and Flora were all literate.

Tragically, Essie passed away on May 25, 1915, at the age of 27, in Warwood, following a battle with septic endometritis—a severe infection of the uterine lining. Her children—Harry (6), Elsie (5), and Ruth (2)—were left motherless at a tender age. Her burial location remains unknown.

Around 1920, Essie’s husband Frank remarried—this time to her sister, Cecil Pearl Murphy.

References

• Essie Lee Grim, Ohio County, West Virginia, Death Index, West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture & History, Vital Records (Interactive), 1915; https://dach-image-proxy.digital-relativity.workers.dev/?film=857524&frame=00307. 
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/143800652/essa_lee-grimm: accessed August 18, 2025), memorial page for Essa Lee “Essie” Murphy Grimm (3 Jul 1887–25 May 1915), Find a Grave Memorial ID 143800652; Burial Details Unknown; maintained by: Find a Grave.
• Ohio County, West Virginia, Birth Records 1889–1914, images 410, 456, and 562, FamilySearch.
• Personal visit to Anderson Bethel Cemetery, Littleton, West Virginia.
• U.S. Federal Census, Clay, Wetzel County, West Virginia, 1900.
• U.S. Federal Census, Richland, Ohio County, West Virginia, 1910. 
• Wetzel County, West Virginia, Marriage Records 1904–1908, image 499, FamilySearch. 

12 negroes sold, property of John Stephens’ estate

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records. 

The Temperance Banner, December 17, 1853

Administrator’s Sale.

Will be sold on the first Tuesday in January 1854, before the Court House door in Greenesboro’, under an order of the Court of Ordinary of Greene county, four hundred acres of Land, more or less; (sold under an incumbrace of the widow’s dower,) adjoining the Lands of W. A. Corry, R. G. Carlton, and A. H. Randle. Also, twelve Negroes, viz: Tom, 50 years of age; Dinah, 54; Cealey, 50; Suvy, 45; Absalom, 60; Willie, 28; Moses (a blacksmith), 30; Aesop, 10; Tom, Jr., 15; Jake, 12, Catharine, 10, and Sam, 7. All sold as the property of the Estate of John Stephens late of Greene county, deceased. Terms on the day.

HENRY STEVENS, Adm’r.

Nov. 19th, 1853 47.-td

Reference

Administrator’s Sale, The Temperance Banner, December 17, 1853.