My Dad's grandparents' grave at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. I came across this headstone by accident when I was looking for the Bolands' grave. Frank C. was born in 1888 and died in 1949. His wife Mary A. was born in 1890 and died in 1955. (More information on the Maier Family at a later date)
Friday, March 30, 2007
Frank C & Mary A Maier
My Dad's grandparents' grave at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. I came across this headstone by accident when I was looking for the Bolands' grave. Frank C. was born in 1888 and died in 1949. His wife Mary A. was born in 1890 and died in 1955. (More information on the Maier Family at a later date)
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Public Service Message To Jo Schwartz
If you get this message, you will know that I had no way of contacting you. Please post again and leave me an email address so I can contact you. Thanks
Monday, March 26, 2007
James Silverthorn's Census Records
1930
1920
1910
1900, Click to enlarge & view all records individually. Please note the 1900 record is difficult to read.Henry B. Ritter Census Records
Henry B. & Mary Voigt Ritter
Click to enlarge & view 1870 Census Record.
Click to enlarge & view 1880 Census Record. Friday, March 23, 2007
And There Once Was A Dog Named Puggles
Never buy a dog that is half beagle and half pug.
REPEAT.
NEVER BUY A DOG THAT IS HALF BEAGLE AND HALF PUG.
Unless you wish to spend the better part of the evening chasing the escapee around in your neighbor's yard.
In the rain.
In the mud.
Slipping and sliding all over the place because the dog is small.
RUNS FAST.
And resists any form of discipline available.
Just ask Bill & Josh.
Beagles and Pugs are the most difficult of breeds to train.
Something, we did not find out until AFTER the dog was given to us by my sister.
If I did not know better, I would have thought she researched these two breeds and gave me this dog on PURPOSE.
YOU KNOW FOR GETTING BACK AT ME FOR BEING THE "GOOD SISTER".
REPEAT.
NEVER BUY A DOG THAT IS HALF BEAGLE AND HALF PUG.
Unless you wish to spend the better part of the evening chasing the escapee around in your neighbor's yard.
In the rain.
In the mud.
Slipping and sliding all over the place because the dog is small.
RUNS FAST.
And resists any form of discipline available.
Just ask Bill & Josh.
Beagles and Pugs are the most difficult of breeds to train.
Something, we did not find out until AFTER the dog was given to us by my sister.
If I did not know better, I would have thought she researched these two breeds and gave me this dog on PURPOSE.
YOU KNOW FOR GETTING BACK AT ME FOR BEING THE "GOOD SISTER".
History of Roxborough Memorial Hospital
Opened on June 7th, 1890 under the name of "The Memorial Hospital and House of Mercy of Saint Timothy's Church, Roxborough". By 1896, the name was changed to St. Timothy's Memorial Hospital and House of Mercy, Roxborough" and in 1920 to "The Memorial Hospital, Roxborough". Today, we simply know the hospital by its name, "Roxborough Memorial Hospital".
This hospital has a history within our family. Many of us were born here, Uncles Billy, Jack, Gene and all my siblings including myself to name a few. My great grandmother Mary (Keller) Gallagher and grandmother Anna Marie (McCaffery) Gallagher worked here. In addition, some of us died here such as my great grandmothers Agnes (Bridget Boland) McCaffery, Mary (Keller) Gallagher up to and including my great Aunt Anna Marie (Gallagher) McCaffery.
So it not surprising that I would include the hospital's history in my research.
The hospital was built on land donated by Mr & Mrs. Vaughan Merrick with 10,000 dollars in funds as a tribute to their parents. In the beginning, the hospital was under the control of St Timothy's P. E. Church's rector, churchwardens and vestrymen until 1920 when financial distress necessitated the church cut its ties with the hospital.
Over the years, the hospital expanded its buildings to include a laundry, nurses' residences and steam-heating plant in 1891. In 1894, the Eugene Nugent Ward was opened. In 1896, the Merrick Building was opened. The two buildings then were connected in 1897. The Percival Roberts Ward was opened in 1901. By 1905, the hospital had added a laboratory and isolation ward. In 1914, the hospital began delivering babies in its new maternity ward. From 1890 to 1916, ambulances were horse-drawn carriages. Another extension in the Percival Roberts Ward was completed in 1928.
Today, the above buildings and extensions cease to exist and have been replaced with new structures. Whereas, the corners of Jamestown & Ridge Avenues thu to Houghton Street were once filled with houses are now replaced with physician offices and a parking lot.
The hospital is no longer independently owned and operated but is part of a nation-wide corporation. Rumor has it the hospital is now up for sale.
This hospital has a history within our family. Many of us were born here, Uncles Billy, Jack, Gene and all my siblings including myself to name a few. My great grandmother Mary (Keller) Gallagher and grandmother Anna Marie (McCaffery) Gallagher worked here. In addition, some of us died here such as my great grandmothers Agnes (Bridget Boland) McCaffery, Mary (Keller) Gallagher up to and including my great Aunt Anna Marie (Gallagher) McCaffery.
So it not surprising that I would include the hospital's history in my research.
The hospital was built on land donated by Mr & Mrs. Vaughan Merrick with 10,000 dollars in funds as a tribute to their parents. In the beginning, the hospital was under the control of St Timothy's P. E. Church's rector, churchwardens and vestrymen until 1920 when financial distress necessitated the church cut its ties with the hospital.
Over the years, the hospital expanded its buildings to include a laundry, nurses' residences and steam-heating plant in 1891. In 1894, the Eugene Nugent Ward was opened. In 1896, the Merrick Building was opened. The two buildings then were connected in 1897. The Percival Roberts Ward was opened in 1901. By 1905, the hospital had added a laboratory and isolation ward. In 1914, the hospital began delivering babies in its new maternity ward. From 1890 to 1916, ambulances were horse-drawn carriages. Another extension in the Percival Roberts Ward was completed in 1928.
Today, the above buildings and extensions cease to exist and have been replaced with new structures. Whereas, the corners of Jamestown & Ridge Avenues thu to Houghton Street were once filled with houses are now replaced with physician offices and a parking lot.
The hospital is no longer independently owned and operated but is part of a nation-wide corporation. Rumor has it the hospital is now up for sale.
Schools in Manayunk & Roxborough
Assumption of B.V.M. (St Mary of Assumption) founded in 1867 for the German speaking congregation.
Holy Family founded in 1911.
Immaculate Heart of Mary founded in 1953 and was built on the old Houston Estate of Chestnut Hill.
St John the Baptist Grade School founded in 1878.
St John the Baptist High School founded in 1921 and was located in the old Schofield Mansion. The High School closed its doors in 1956.
St Josaphat was founded in 1912 and was built on the Old Reformed Churchyard/Cemetery in 1912.
St Lucy was founded in 1953 for the Italian speaking congregation.
St Timothy was founded in 1868 for the free education of the children and adults forced by economic necessity to work in the mills of Manayunk. This was founded by the Episcopal Church and the area's first night school.
Andorra School was founded in 1870 also called Shawmont School.
Crease School was founded in 1873 and was built on the Isacc and Patience Rittenhouse Estate.
Fairview School founded in 1878 also called Cook School.
Levering School was founded in 1748.
Manatawna School founded in 1851.
Manayunk School founded in 1844 also called Green Lane School.
Roxborough High School was founded in 1922.
Roxborough Grade School founded in 1846 also called Dickinson Grammar School.
Schuylkill School founded in 1849 also called James Dobson School.
Washington School founded in 1854 also called Charles Thompson Jones School.
Wissahickon School founded in 1888 also called Cook-Wissahickon School.
Yellow School House founded in 1812.
Holy Family founded in 1911.
Immaculate Heart of Mary founded in 1953 and was built on the old Houston Estate of Chestnut Hill.
St John the Baptist Grade School founded in 1878.
St John the Baptist High School founded in 1921 and was located in the old Schofield Mansion. The High School closed its doors in 1956.
St Josaphat was founded in 1912 and was built on the Old Reformed Churchyard/Cemetery in 1912.
St Lucy was founded in 1953 for the Italian speaking congregation.
St Timothy was founded in 1868 for the free education of the children and adults forced by economic necessity to work in the mills of Manayunk. This was founded by the Episcopal Church and the area's first night school.
Andorra School was founded in 1870 also called Shawmont School.
Crease School was founded in 1873 and was built on the Isacc and Patience Rittenhouse Estate.
Fairview School founded in 1878 also called Cook School.
Levering School was founded in 1748.
Manatawna School founded in 1851.
Manayunk School founded in 1844 also called Green Lane School.
Roxborough High School was founded in 1922.
Roxborough Grade School founded in 1846 also called Dickinson Grammar School.
Schuylkill School founded in 1849 also called James Dobson School.
Washington School founded in 1854 also called Charles Thompson Jones School.
Wissahickon School founded in 1888 also called Cook-Wissahickon School.
Yellow School House founded in 1812.
Lutheran Churches of Manayunk & Roxborough
Bethanien German Lutheran Church was founded in 1845 and located at Martin & Pechin Streets. Church records can be researched at the German Lutheran Archive Center and Theological Seminary on Germantown Avenue in the Germantown Section of Philadelphia. Please note that all records are in the German Language.
Epiphany Lutheran Church was founded in 1889 and located on Green Lane & Silverwood Street.
Grace Lutheran Church was founded in 1905 and located on Ridge & Roxborough Avenues.
Epiphany Lutheran Church was founded in 1889 and located on Green Lane & Silverwood Street.
Grace Lutheran Church was founded in 1905 and located on Ridge & Roxborough Avenues.
Roman Catholic Churches of Manayunk & Roxborough
St John The Baptist (Irish Church) founded in 1831 and located at Cresson & Rector Streets.
St Mary of the Assumption (German Church) founded in 1849 and located at Silverwood & Conarroe Streets.
Holy Family ( Irish Church) founded in 1885 and located at Hermitage & Wilde Streets.
St Josaphat (Polish Church) founded in 1898 and located at Silverwood & Cotton Streets.
St Lucy (Italian Church) founded in 1927 and located at 146 Green Lane.
Immaculate Heart of Mary ( no specific nationality) was founded in 1952 and located at Cathedral & Tiona Streets.
St Mary of the Assumption (German Church) founded in 1849 and located at Silverwood & Conarroe Streets.
Holy Family ( Irish Church) founded in 1885 and located at Hermitage & Wilde Streets.
St Josaphat (Polish Church) founded in 1898 and located at Silverwood & Cotton Streets.
St Lucy (Italian Church) founded in 1927 and located at 146 Green Lane.
Immaculate Heart of Mary ( no specific nationality) was founded in 1952 and located at Cathedral & Tiona Streets.
Grand Army of the Republic (G. A. R.)
The Grand Army of the Republic was founded as a Fraternal Military Society for the Union Veterans of the Civil War in Decatur, Illnois on April 6th, 1866 in order to preserve the Union, honor the War Dead, provide relief for the Veterans' Children and Widows and to defend the Constitution of the United States of America. It's last member died in 1956.
Post Number 12 was founded in the Roxborough Section of Philadelphia in 1874 by Col. John Harper and John F. Parker. The very first meeting was held in the "Old Fellows Hall" at Lyceum & Ridge Avenues The G. A. R. Hall was then located at 422 Fountain Street on the site of an old fire house.
Our great great grandfather John G. Keller was a member.
Post Number 12 was founded in the Roxborough Section of Philadelphia in 1874 by Col. John Harper and John F. Parker. The very first meeting was held in the "Old Fellows Hall" at Lyceum & Ridge Avenues The G. A. R. Hall was then located at 422 Fountain Street on the site of an old fire house.
Our great great grandfather John G. Keller was a member.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
James Silverthorn
Born in the state of Pennsylvania in the year 1878, he married Grace (Gallagher) and had three sons, Charles, Raymond and Edward.
According to the 1900 Census Records, his wife Grace was born in Scotland. (Grace was the eldest child of Patrick & Hannah Gallagher) She was born in route from Ireland in Scotland before immigrating with her parents to Philadelphia in 1880.
According to the 1910 Census Records, James was listed as a Crane Operator in an Iron Mill (most probably Pencoyd).
In the 1920 Census Records, John & Sally Keller (Grace's brother-in-law & sister) lived with the family.
The latest Census Records available to date are the 1930 records which lists James living with sons Raymond & Edward on 3925 Terrace Street in the Manayunk Section of Philadelphia. Grace died in 1930 before the Census was taken.
Future posts will include the 1900, 1910, 1920 and 1930 Census Records of James Silverthorn.
According to the 1900 Census Records, his wife Grace was born in Scotland. (Grace was the eldest child of Patrick & Hannah Gallagher) She was born in route from Ireland in Scotland before immigrating with her parents to Philadelphia in 1880.
According to the 1910 Census Records, James was listed as a Crane Operator in an Iron Mill (most probably Pencoyd).
In the 1920 Census Records, John & Sally Keller (Grace's brother-in-law & sister) lived with the family.
The latest Census Records available to date are the 1930 records which lists James living with sons Raymond & Edward on 3925 Terrace Street in the Manayunk Section of Philadelphia. Grace died in 1930 before the Census was taken.
Future posts will include the 1900, 1910, 1920 and 1930 Census Records of James Silverthorn.
James & Grace (Gallagher) Silverthorn's Three Sons
Charles Silverthorn was born July 16th, 1900 and died February 1972. Charles was a resident of Lafayette Hill, Pa. at the time of his death. His wife Mary was born November 29th, 1899 and died November 1972 and was also a resident of Lafayette Hill, Pa. at the time of her death.
Raymond Silverthorn was born August 15th, 1902 and died December 1966. He was a resident of Roxborough at the time of his death. He was also a very good friend of my grandfather William Gallagher II as well as a cousin.
Edward Silverthorn was born July 3rd, 1909 and died January 1988. he was a resident of Roxborough at the time of his death.
All three sons were born and raised in Manayunk. At this time I do not know if Raymond or Edward were married.
Raymond Silverthorn was born August 15th, 1902 and died December 1966. He was a resident of Roxborough at the time of his death. He was also a very good friend of my grandfather William Gallagher II as well as a cousin.
Edward Silverthorn was born July 3rd, 1909 and died January 1988. he was a resident of Roxborough at the time of his death.
All three sons were born and raised in Manayunk. At this time I do not know if Raymond or Edward were married.
Records Of Charles Silverthorn
1880 Census Record
1870 Census Record
Civil War Pension Record
Click to Enlarge & View
Charles Silverthorn
In the 1890 Special Census of Surviving Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Widows of the Civil War in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania lists Charles Silverthorn (e) as being in Company A, 119th Pa. Infantry.
Charles Silverthorn was born in Philadelphia Pa (1826), son of Charles & Rebecca Silverthorn. He was married to Elizabeth (Chayner). According to the 1870 Census Records, he lived with his wife and seven children along with his mother-in-law, (Ann Chayner) in the Manayunk Section of Philadelphia. His children were listed as Kate, Charles, Elizabeth, Maria, Joseph, Rebecca and John. In the 1880 Census Records, he was listed as living at 218 Fountain Street with his family, the previous census record (1870) did not have an address listed.
Charles Silverthorn was born in Philadelphia Pa (1826), son of Charles & Rebecca Silverthorn. He was married to Elizabeth (Chayner). According to the 1870 Census Records, he lived with his wife and seven children along with his mother-in-law, (Ann Chayner) in the Manayunk Section of Philadelphia. His children were listed as Kate, Charles, Elizabeth, Maria, Joseph, Rebecca and John. In the 1880 Census Records, he was listed as living at 218 Fountain Street with his family, the previous census record (1870) did not have an address listed.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
A Small World Indeed
3907 Ridge Avenue (red brick house left of the white stucco house) View taken from Laurel Hill Cemetery.I received the below comments on some of my blog posts from Marijane, a woman who shares some family history background with our family. Not only did her ancestors live in the 3907 Ridge Avenue house as the Schroeders then Gallaghers once did but her ancestor worked at Laurel Hill Cemetery and even lived on the cemetery grounds itself.
It is a small world indeed, is it not?
I am thrilled to have met Marijane "via" interent and when she comes down to Philadelphia to photograph the South grounds of Laurel Hill for her own family records, we hope to meet up.
"I loved your history of East Falls. My ggrandfather raised his kids at 3907 ridge Avenue. He worked at Dobson & his kids went to St. Bridgets. His father-in-law lived and worked at Laurel Hill Cemetery until his death in 1881. Thanks"
"My gggrandfather started to work at Laurel around 1840. He was in charge of the South Gate... While he helped Hugh Scott clear his land he met Drennam who became the first supt. Then his son became the next super. I don't know how it came about that my John Conway ended up living in the house on the grounds. His daughter, Louise Conway Denby, played the piano and organ for the funerals at the Chapel before it was pulled down. I have lots of family buried in the old section.I have to come down (I live in Doylestown) and take pictures of the South gate and the house for my Conway family history.It would be fun to meet you and share the history of the area. Your history is fabulous!! "
The Fountain Inn & Saloon
This was the name of our ancestor Henry B. Ritter's hotel, saloon and stable. As a matter of fact on November 19th, 1870, there was a fire which destroyed the hotel's stable that was caused by an arsonist. The establishment was located on Main Street just below Shurs Lane in the Manayunk Section of Philadelphia.
In the 1870 & 1880 Census records, it appears Ritter & his family lived next to the place of business on Main Street. I will list those records at a later date.
For further information about Manayunk & Roxborough, refer to the book "Bygones, A Guide to Historic Roxborough-Manayunk" by John Charles Manton. On pages 69 thur 81, it lists all the fires in the area from 1870 to 1975. The listing for the fire at The Fountain Inn is on page 69.
In the 1870 & 1880 Census records, it appears Ritter & his family lived next to the place of business on Main Street. I will list those records at a later date.
For further information about Manayunk & Roxborough, refer to the book "Bygones, A Guide to Historic Roxborough-Manayunk" by John Charles Manton. On pages 69 thur 81, it lists all the fires in the area from 1870 to 1975. The listing for the fire at The Fountain Inn is on page 69.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
World War I & II Records Of William Joseph Gallagher I
Click to enlarge & view. World War I Record of William J. Gallagher, son of Patrick & Hannah (Dougherty) Gallagher, brother of Grace (Gallagher) Silverthorn, Mary (Gallagher) Cannon and Sally (Gallagher) Keller, husband of Mary (Keller) Gallagher, father of William J. Gallagher II and Anna Marie (Gallagher) McCaffery, grandfather of William J. III, John, Eugene, Mary and Ann Marie. Record indicates home address, place of employment, next of kin, date of birth, date of draft and physical characteristics.
Click to enlarge & view. World War II Record of William J. Gallagher I. See above for further information in regards to the record.Monday, March 19, 2007
World War I & II Records of John Gotleib Keller II
Click to enlarge & view, World War I Record of John G. Keller, son of John & Elisabeth (Voigt) Keller, brother of Mary (Keller) Gallagher and husband of Sally (Gallagher) Keller. Please note that Sally was also known as Sarah (legal name) and Sadie (nickname). Document states home address at time of draft along with physical characteristics and place of employment.
Click to enlarge & view. World War II Record of John G. Keller II. See above for further record information.Saturday, March 17, 2007
Genealogy Update
I know it has been a few a weeks since I researched and/or posted anything about our "family history". I have talked about everything from baby showers to girl's clothing to the weather.
Where is the history?
It is "a coming".
The article in the local neighborhood newspaper was published a week earlier than expected so I need to scan and share it with all of you. The article is about our great great grandfather John Keller and his cousin Henry Voigt.
In addition to the article, I have the remaining history of the Ritter Family to share with you along with the name, address, ect. of the Hotel & Saloon, our ancestor Henry & Mary (Voigt) Ritter owned in Manayunk.
And of interest to all of you, I received a comment from a Marijane who I would love to hear from again because it appears her ancestors lived at 3907 Ridge Avenue before our Schroeder then Gallagher ancestors. Her great great grandfather worked at Laurel Hill Cemetery in 1881. So, if you read this Marijane, please contact me. I would love to know what your grandfather's name was.
Where is the history?
It is "a coming".
The article in the local neighborhood newspaper was published a week earlier than expected so I need to scan and share it with all of you. The article is about our great great grandfather John Keller and his cousin Henry Voigt.
In addition to the article, I have the remaining history of the Ritter Family to share with you along with the name, address, ect. of the Hotel & Saloon, our ancestor Henry & Mary (Voigt) Ritter owned in Manayunk.
And of interest to all of you, I received a comment from a Marijane who I would love to hear from again because it appears her ancestors lived at 3907 Ridge Avenue before our Schroeder then Gallagher ancestors. Her great great grandfather worked at Laurel Hill Cemetery in 1881. So, if you read this Marijane, please contact me. I would love to know what your grandfather's name was.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Final Segment Of the March Storm For Those Who Are Not Bored Too Tears "7:28pm"
Yeah, it is still raining ice. However, Bill & I decided to spend this March Winter Ice Storm around the corner at our local Irish pub where I ate Ham & Cabbage (one day early) and had a couple of vodka & cranberry drinks.
I was going to take a picture of this latest storm. However, the battery in my camera decided to die so there is not any proof that this storm even existed today.
Just take my word on it. OK?
Bill just informed me that vodka was made from potato juice. Could that be remotely true because I did not know Russia had an abundance of potatoes. True Irish form would have meant that I would have chosen "beer" tonight instead of vodka.
Oh well, tomorrow is St. Patty's Day. I guess I can drink beer tomorrow.
I was going to take a picture of this latest storm. However, the battery in my camera decided to die so there is not any proof that this storm even existed today.
Just take my word on it. OK?
Bill just informed me that vodka was made from potato juice. Could that be remotely true because I did not know Russia had an abundance of potatoes. True Irish form would have meant that I would have chosen "beer" tonight instead of vodka.
Oh well, tomorrow is St. Patty's Day. I guess I can drink beer tomorrow.
Yet Another Storm Update "3:07pm"
This has got to be a bad joke. It is now "pouring ice", not rain but ice.
Hmmm, is anyone listening up there? Hello?
My flowers are crying as in really sobbing.
My dog will still not go outside.
It is cold here.
Hmmm, is anyone listening up there? Hello?
My flowers are crying as in really sobbing.
My dog will still not go outside.
It is cold here.
Second Storm Update 2:08pm
Oh, the ice keeps "a falling" from the heavens above as to place at least two inches of frozen stuff on the street, sidewalk and most importantly my car thus far. There will be some serious scraping tomorrow, I am sure.
And doesn't God know it is St. Patty's Day tomorrow? That is my day. A day which I watch QVC for the simple fact that I must and I mean must add some more Galway crystal to my collection among other things of Irish. I also enjoy all the Irish folks and music they have on each year. Then there is that simple fact that yes my name is Pat and yes I am Irish among other things like German and Polish.
Tomorrow, Bill & I have a party to attend so listen here "oh rotten weather of mine, knock it off now".
And doesn't God know it is St. Patty's Day tomorrow? That is my day. A day which I watch QVC for the simple fact that I must and I mean must add some more Galway crystal to my collection among other things of Irish. I also enjoy all the Irish folks and music they have on each year. Then there is that simple fact that yes my name is Pat and yes I am Irish among other things like German and Polish.
Tomorrow, Bill & I have a party to attend so listen here "oh rotten weather of mine, knock it off now".
Storm Update 11:55am
This weather is all my son Shaun's fault. He wanted to drive up to Rhode Island this weekend to buy a boat he saw. He decided to buy this boat when the weather was in the high 70's in the beginning of the week.
He jinxed us all. Because he wanted to buy a boat, the heavens decided to play a game and open up to pour an icy mess upon our city today and let me just say so far the sleet has been non-stop. Doesn't God know that my dog will not go outside to do her business in this type of weather, that I must force her little doggy ass outside while she is kicking and screaming, "hell no, I won't go", that she whimpers while clawing the back door just to come in without the benefit of pottying first.
Ok, we get it. You can stop the sleet now and return us to the warm breeze of spring.
He jinxed us all. Because he wanted to buy a boat, the heavens decided to play a game and open up to pour an icy mess upon our city today and let me just say so far the sleet has been non-stop. Doesn't God know that my dog will not go outside to do her business in this type of weather, that I must force her little doggy ass outside while she is kicking and screaming, "hell no, I won't go", that she whimpers while clawing the back door just to come in without the benefit of pottying first.
Ok, we get it. You can stop the sleet now and return us to the warm breeze of spring.
It Must Be March
This morning, we are in the middle of an ice storm. Yesterday, it was nice enough outside to wear sandals. Two days ago, the flowers in the garden began to bloom.
I guess they call this March in the Northeast Section of the country.
Did I mention, I cannot wait until summer?
I guess they call this March in the Northeast Section of the country.
Did I mention, I cannot wait until summer?
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Recovering
Poor Puggles lost her womanhood this past week. However, she got to rest and recover in the comfort of our bed. That is what a few abdominal sutures will get you around here.
This also may be the first and last time, we ever get to see her this calm.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Neighborhood Newspaper
There was an article in last week's Manayunk/Roxborough neighborhood newspaper about some of the local small forgotten graveyards/cemeteries. The reporter announced he was going to do a series of articles over the next few weeks about these forgotten cemeteries which prompted me to contact this reporter on whether he would be interested or not on an article about some of my own family members especially those who are interred in the tiny German Lutheran Bethany Churchground.
I mentioned writing an article about my great great grandfather John Gotlieb Keller who fought in the Civil War's 24th Pa and 15th Ny Regiments and who survived the Battle of Gettysburg only to die as a result of burns obtained later on in a steel mill accident.
He was interred in Bethany along with his wife Elisabeth, mother Susannah, brothers Jacob & Frederick and their Voigt cousins.
This reporter emailed me the other day and "yes" he was interested in an article that profiled John G. Keller. I wrote the article and sent it "via" email yesterday. Hopefully, we will all be able to see it in print in the next few weeks.
I remember my mother telling me how a reporter many years ago wanted to write a profile about the Keller/Voigt families because of their relationship to the Civil War/Gettysburg/Little Big Horn. He approached my great grandmother Mary Keller Gallagher about writing such an article but my great grandmother was too modest and preferred not to brag about the military histories of both her father (John G. Keller) and cousin (Henry C. Voigt). Needless to say, the article was never written. My great grandmother died in 1959. Therefore, I never had the chance to meet her. However, my grandfather, her son, William J. Gallagher II talked openly and proudly about his family for the many years I did know him and it is his words/memories I shall never forget and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to tell the story of my family because I am so very proud of who they were and how they chose to live their lives.
Today, we hear so much anti-government anti-military talk in the news and in the general conversation of others that I cannot help but think how it must have been for our ancestors during the time of the Civil War, Indian Wars, World War I & II, Korean and Vietnam Wars, all which members of our family served proudly not to mention the current Iraq War which my youngest son served in.
While in Florida, I sat and listened to many conversations all which were very anti-government anti-military. I said and I quote "Unless you served in the military, you do not have an opinion". I really meant that statement because all those who spoke had never served in the military nor even had a father, brother or son who had served.
Seriously, what gave them the right to judge?
I was especially "taken aback" on the comment of the 18 yr old (who shall remain nameless) involved in that conversation when he turned around and made the following reply to my statement, "Why do you like war? Would you like one of your sons killed in one? "
Wow, how naive and stupid, I thought. I can only conclude that I am glad it was not the character or cowardliness of someone like him whom this country needed to lean on & trust to defend our freedom because if it were we would still be a subject of Britain.
And for the record, I never served in the military and though I may not agree on all the current polices of this administration, I firmly believe that we should have a certain amount of respect for our elected officials because not to do so only reinforces the behaviors of our enemies.
And we must always support our troops.
And that is my two-cents worth of Gallagher Preaching.
I mentioned writing an article about my great great grandfather John Gotlieb Keller who fought in the Civil War's 24th Pa and 15th Ny Regiments and who survived the Battle of Gettysburg only to die as a result of burns obtained later on in a steel mill accident.
He was interred in Bethany along with his wife Elisabeth, mother Susannah, brothers Jacob & Frederick and their Voigt cousins.
This reporter emailed me the other day and "yes" he was interested in an article that profiled John G. Keller. I wrote the article and sent it "via" email yesterday. Hopefully, we will all be able to see it in print in the next few weeks.
I remember my mother telling me how a reporter many years ago wanted to write a profile about the Keller/Voigt families because of their relationship to the Civil War/Gettysburg/Little Big Horn. He approached my great grandmother Mary Keller Gallagher about writing such an article but my great grandmother was too modest and preferred not to brag about the military histories of both her father (John G. Keller) and cousin (Henry C. Voigt). Needless to say, the article was never written. My great grandmother died in 1959. Therefore, I never had the chance to meet her. However, my grandfather, her son, William J. Gallagher II talked openly and proudly about his family for the many years I did know him and it is his words/memories I shall never forget and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to tell the story of my family because I am so very proud of who they were and how they chose to live their lives.
Today, we hear so much anti-government anti-military talk in the news and in the general conversation of others that I cannot help but think how it must have been for our ancestors during the time of the Civil War, Indian Wars, World War I & II, Korean and Vietnam Wars, all which members of our family served proudly not to mention the current Iraq War which my youngest son served in.
While in Florida, I sat and listened to many conversations all which were very anti-government anti-military. I said and I quote "Unless you served in the military, you do not have an opinion". I really meant that statement because all those who spoke had never served in the military nor even had a father, brother or son who had served.
Seriously, what gave them the right to judge?
I was especially "taken aback" on the comment of the 18 yr old (who shall remain nameless) involved in that conversation when he turned around and made the following reply to my statement, "Why do you like war? Would you like one of your sons killed in one? "
Wow, how naive and stupid, I thought. I can only conclude that I am glad it was not the character or cowardliness of someone like him whom this country needed to lean on & trust to defend our freedom because if it were we would still be a subject of Britain.
And for the record, I never served in the military and though I may not agree on all the current polices of this administration, I firmly believe that we should have a certain amount of respect for our elected officials because not to do so only reinforces the behaviors of our enemies.
And we must always support our troops.
And that is my two-cents worth of Gallagher Preaching.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
1880 Census Record John & Elisabeth Keller
Click to enlarge & view. John G & Elisabeth Keller with their three daughters in a 1880 Census Record. They lived at 128 Walnut while his brother Jacob and his wife also named Elizabeth lived next door at 126 Walnut with their two sons and one daughter.1860 Census Record for John G Keller & Family
Click to view and enlarge. Take note that John was the second born son of Susanna. As per German custom, he was known by his middle name of Gottleib. He had an older brother by the name of Jacob and a younger brother by the name of Frederick.John G Keller Civil War Pension Record
Click to enlarge & view. Take notice that John served in both the 24th PA and 15th NY regiments. I have the discharge papers for the 15th NY. His wife Elisabeth (Voigt) Keller received his pension on Nov 4th, 1897.Ship "British Prince"
Patrick Boland, brother of Martin and John Boland travelled to America from England after leaving Ireland. He arrived in Philadelphia on May 3, 1887. He was 21 yrs old and resided in the East Falls section of Philadelphia. 
Martin Boland, brother of Patrick and John Boland travelled to America from England after leaving Ireland. He arrived in Philadelphia on April 30, 1888 and resided in the East Falls section of Philadelphia. He was 35 yrs old.Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Thinking Spring While The Snow Is Falling
If you have not guessed by the title of today's post, it is snowing here again. Pretty as it may be I cannot help but wish for the warmer weather of Springtime. So much so that I placed an order this morning for a few things I wish to plant this Spring/Summer from an on-line nursery.
I am a gardener at heart. I love to plant a variety of things in my garden and sit back and watch them bloom. This past Fall, one hundred bulbs were planted in the front and side gardens of my house. It is sort of a hit or miss thing and I will not know my success until they begin to bloom sometime next month.
This morning I ordered three Lemon Grass Plants which I plan to plant in containers in the back yard. Lemon Grass is an excellent source of natural citronella which I hope helps repel some of the mosquitoes we get in abundance during the Summer months around here. They are great plants because they can be placed in either the sun or shade and survive. I can also bring them indoors during the Winter months.
Another thing I ordered was a Blueberry Plant complete with pot and soil which will be a project for my grandsons Shaun and Nikolas. I am going to teach them to plant and grow their own Blueberries this Summer. Shaun loves to eat Blueberries so what better way to eat them then to grow them yourself.
I ordered a Climbing Shell Plant for the shepherds hook in the front yard that proudly holds the Bird-house Shaun made two years ago. I thought the flowers would look pretty climbing up the pole and around the Bird-house.
Of course, I cannot forgot the Cascadia Petunias for the three hanging baskets that will be placed on the front porch. I decided this year I would try the magenta-red blossoms.
Finally, I ordered what it called an Arctic Flame Red Rose Bush to plant in honor of Bill's recently deceased mother because she loved Red Roses. I am not sure where we will plant it yet but I am sure we will find the perfect place. It is one of those Sub-Zero Rose Bushes that is suppose to be hardy in all types of weather and resists most Rose problems. I decided to go with this type because I have other Rose Bushes that seem to have a problem with spots/insects since we moved in this house last Summer. Needless to say, the Arctic Rose will not be planted near these Roses. Hopefully, I will be able to get a handle on these Rose problems this year or I will need to remove them.
I am a gardener at heart. I love to plant a variety of things in my garden and sit back and watch them bloom. This past Fall, one hundred bulbs were planted in the front and side gardens of my house. It is sort of a hit or miss thing and I will not know my success until they begin to bloom sometime next month.
This morning I ordered three Lemon Grass Plants which I plan to plant in containers in the back yard. Lemon Grass is an excellent source of natural citronella which I hope helps repel some of the mosquitoes we get in abundance during the Summer months around here. They are great plants because they can be placed in either the sun or shade and survive. I can also bring them indoors during the Winter months.
Another thing I ordered was a Blueberry Plant complete with pot and soil which will be a project for my grandsons Shaun and Nikolas. I am going to teach them to plant and grow their own Blueberries this Summer. Shaun loves to eat Blueberries so what better way to eat them then to grow them yourself.
I ordered a Climbing Shell Plant for the shepherds hook in the front yard that proudly holds the Bird-house Shaun made two years ago. I thought the flowers would look pretty climbing up the pole and around the Bird-house.
Of course, I cannot forgot the Cascadia Petunias for the three hanging baskets that will be placed on the front porch. I decided this year I would try the magenta-red blossoms.
Finally, I ordered what it called an Arctic Flame Red Rose Bush to plant in honor of Bill's recently deceased mother because she loved Red Roses. I am not sure where we will plant it yet but I am sure we will find the perfect place. It is one of those Sub-Zero Rose Bushes that is suppose to be hardy in all types of weather and resists most Rose problems. I decided to go with this type because I have other Rose Bushes that seem to have a problem with spots/insects since we moved in this house last Summer. Needless to say, the Arctic Rose will not be planted near these Roses. Hopefully, I will be able to get a handle on these Rose problems this year or I will need to remove them.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
December 13, 1934 - February 26, 2007
Marlene (Molly) Agnes Cannon lost her battle with Lung Cancer on Feb 26, 2007 at 12:15am.
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