Pane-Joyce Genealogy
George M. Hitchcock (65252) & Keziah Jane McComb
67795. Charles Americus Hitchcock. Born ca 1848 in Ohio. Charles Americus died in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1864. Buried in Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Civil War Records
Charles Hitchcock, age 18, enlisted in Company Batty C, Ohio 1st LA Batty C Light Artillery Battery on 27 Jan 1864. Mustered out on 09 Jun 1864 at Hospital, Chattanooga, TN.

Civil War Pension - Application number 28820 on 17 July 1863. He faught with the 1 Ohio Light Artillary. On 7 February 1884, George M. Hitchcock also applied as his father for a pension for Charles A. a., buried on battle field.
Medina County Gazette (Medina, Ohio) 31 December 1875, Page 4.

Medina Gazettee, May, 28, 1886 ”Listing of Soldiers who died in the Civil War from Medina County, Ohio,” says, “Chas. Americus Hitchcock 1st Ohio Lt. Art., shot at Chattanooga, Tenn.; buried on battlefield.”

Chattanooga National Cemetery, Chattanooga, Hamilton County, Tennessee
    Pvt. Charles Americus Hitchcock, d. 9 Jun 1864
Plot: E, 11229
67796. Ruthana Hitchcock. Born ca 1848 in Medina, Medina County, Ohio. Ruthana died in Medina, Medina County, Ohio in Feb 1857. Buried in Medina Cemetery.

A brief article in the Western Reserve Chronicle, on 18 February 1857 states:
“Hitchcock, female, Montville Township, Friday last, burned to death, nine years, little daughter of George.” The Chronicle indicates the story was first written in the Medina Gazzette. Abstract appeared in the Trumball County Ohio Newspaper Obituary Abstracts 1812-1870, Edited by Michael Clegg. Volume 1, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, 1984.

Medina Cemetery, Medina, Medina County, Ohio
    Ruthana Hitchcock, d. 1857, age 6, daughter of [G]M & JH Hitchcock.
67797. Erastus W. Hitchcock. Born on 13 May 1853 in Medina, Medina County, Ohio.

Birthdate from Pension Application of George M. Hitchcock as the father of Charles A. Hitchcock.

1870 Federal Census. Monroe Township, Logan County, Ohio
Roll 1234, page 192A
Post Office West Liberty
    Elizabeth Stewart, 60, keeping house, $1000 personal estate, b. VA
    Susan Stewart, 40, b. OH
    Erastus Hitchcock, 17, farm laborer, b. OH
Erastus working as a farm laborer for the Stewarts. Next door, Nicholas Stewart is 30, Carrie is 29, and Ida Mae is 3. Real estate is worth $3900 and personal property $1760. All but Elizabeth were born in Ohio. She was born in Virginia.

LAWLESSNESS IN MEDINA!
Shooting with Intent to Kill
JOSEPH RENO SHOT!
BY Erastus Hitchcock, a Boy
PARTICULARS OF THE AFFAIR
——-
    Following closely upon the heels of the Chatham murder, we have to report another attempt to take human life —- this time in Medina. On Thursday evening of last week, June 20th, Joseph Reno, a colored man, known far and wide as an attach of the American House in this village, was shot with a Colt’s navy revolver by Erastus Hitchcock, a lad about nineteen years of age, and severely if not fatally wounded.
THE CIRCUMSTANCES.
    The family of Reno live up stairs in the frame building north of Empire Block opposite the American House. On the evening mentioned, some member of the family being sick was disturbed by pistol shots coming from the lot in the rear and to north of the building, and word was sent to Joe at the hotel to have him put a stop to it. This was about ten o’clock. Joe took a stick —- a piece of a broom handle used as a cane — in his hand, and stepped across the street to the vacant lot between Hays’ blacksmith shop and Warren’s feed store, where he found Erastus Hitchcock and John Struschucker (otherwise known as the the Briggs boy), young men of about 19 years of age, who were employed as hostlers in the American House barn, and who were then lying on a buffalo robe spread on the ground. Joe told them to stop their noise and go away; that they had no business there; and then started to go back to the hotel, when he heard them make some threats that they would shoot as much as they pleased, or something to that effect, upon which he turned on them to make them go away, and struck young Hitchcock with the stick. At this Hitchcock — who afterwards said the blow did not hurt him, but only made him mad — told Joe he would shoot him, and did fire at him but missed him. He fired again, and Joe fell. They were about 10 or 12 feet apart.
    It seems that Joe got up, himself, and walked to the sidewalk, where he sat down on the steps of the feed store.
    Several people were standing at Empire corner and about the hotel and heard the shots; among them, John Rounds, J.F. Hobart, E.J. Fenn, Drs. Hudson and Murray, Wm. Shildrick, and others. They thought nothing of it, particularly, until it was discovered that a man had been shot. Joe was carried into the hotel, and medical assistance at once rendered. Young Hitchcock was arrested and put in jail.
    THE WOUND.
    Blood was flowing profusely from the wound, and his way from where he fell to the hotel was marked with puddles of blood. The ball, which was a conical lead bullet fired from a ten-inch Colt’s revolver, had entered his face under the right nostril, passed through the upper jaw and wound around behind the arteries to the back of the neck, where it lodged about half an inch from the surface. It was extracted the next morning by Drs. Murray, Hard and Hudson, Joe being too much exhausted by the loss of blood to have the operation performed that night.
    RENO’S STATEMENT
    After being taken to the hotel and somewhat quieted, Joe’s statement of the affair was taken down and he was sworn to it. It was with difficulty he could talk, and his statement was broken and disconnected.
We give it as follows:
        The State of Ohio,
        Medina County, ss.
    I went out just north of my house; heard some one was shooting: I went to see who it was and what they were doing. I struck at “Rack” Hitchcock with a little stick, and he said: “Take care, or I will shoot you.” I started away, but went back again and told him he must go away, that he had no business there; when he said he would shoot me and he did shoot at me but did not hit me; and then he shot again and this time hit me in the face just on the right and under my nose ……My little girl came to get me to go and see who was there…… After the first fire “Rack” Hitchcock said he would kill me, and immediately shot. He shot at me the first time. I was about 10 to 12 feet from him when he shot me. …..The Briggs boy was with him, but it was Hitchcock that had the pistol and who shot me. ……..This was in the evening of the 20th day of June, 1872………. They were shooting and annoying my family, and I went over to get them away. I told Hitchcock when I first went over there. He commenced swearing at me and told me he would shoot me. This was before I struck him.
        The above statement taken and sworn to before me this 20th day of June, A.D., 1972.
        Wm. H. Alden, J.P.
YOUNG HITCHCOCK’S STATEMENT
        While Erastus Hitchcock was being taken to jail, in reply to the questions of those who had him in charge, he said it was his time to watch the barn and attend to horses arriving; that Struschucker came over to stay with him and brought a pistol, which Struschucker had fired once; and Joe Reno came across to where they were with a club to drive them away; that when Joe started to go back to the hotel Struschucker told him he needn’t come back again, and Joe turned around and said “What!”; that Hitchcock then said it was not him who spoke; Joe said he knew it was him, he knew his voice, and threatened to “smash his mouth” if he didn’t stop, and did hit him. Hitchcock said he took the pistol and fired at Joe. He said he fired twice —— guessing he did not hit him the first time. Said Reno “did not hurt him much when he struck him, but it made him as mad as the devil.”
EXAMINATION BEFORE THE MAYOR.
        The prisoner as taken before Mayor Bostwick on Monday morning at 10 o’clock for preliminary examination. His attorney is John B. Young, Esq. The attorneys for the State are Blake, Woodward & Codding, and H.J. Walker, Esq.
        John Rounds and J.F. Hobart were called as witnesses by the State, and testified to hearing the shots, to finding Reno wounded, and to taking the accused to jail. Dr. Hard testified as to the nature of the wound and the probability of death from such a wound with a bullet of that size. The defense called no witnesses and waived further examination.
        The court thereupon held the accused to answer to the charge of shooting with the intent to kill, placing the bail at $3000. Not being able to procure bail he was placed in jail to await trial by the court of common please.
“OLD JOE”
has been a well-known character in Medina for nearly half a century. For about twenty years he has been a valuable and trustworthy employee of the American House. It is impossible to state his age, as he does not know himself how old he is. Those who knew him thirty o forty years ago say he looked no younger or older than than now; and when asked his age, any time for the past twenty-five years, he has answered; “I don’t know, sir; but about fifty-six or fifty seven.” Everybody knows “Joe;” and this dreadful calamity creates a great sensation. His condition at present is as comfortable as could be expected, and he is likely to recover —— though there is a critical stage yet to be passed over.
Medina County Gazette (Medina, Ohio) 28 June 1872, Page 3.

Murder and Conviction:
5) 1872........"Following upon the heels of the Chatham murder we have to report another attempt to take human life, this time in Medina. On Thursday evening June 25, Joseph Reno, a colored man known far and wide as the Attache of the American House, was shot by Erastus Hitchock, a lad about 19 years of age. The cause in the affair was an attempt by Joe to quiet two boys who were firing a pistol in the neighborhood of his home, thereby disturbing a sick child. He requested them to stop which they refused to do. He had in his hand a broom handle used as a cane with which he struck young Hitchcock. At this, Hitchcock, who afterwards said the blow did not hurt him, only made him mad, fires on Joe, but missed. He fired again, and Joe fell. After lingering for a few days he died. During his sickness he was the recipient of the best care and kindest attention of Mr. and Mrs. Warren at the American House, the most comfortable quarters being provided for him. The funeral was largely attended."
6) 1875....."Erastus Hitchcock, who was sentenced to the Penitentiary for six years for shooting Joe Reno, was pardoned last week." AfriGeneas Genealogy and History Forum: “Some Family History,” by Art Thomas, 18 March 2007. http://www.afrigeneas.com/forum/index.cgi/md/read/...story-my-reno-lines/

Information about the life of Jospeh Reno 1812 -1872
Joseph Reno1812-1872J Joseph Reno was born in Champaign County, Ohio circa 1812 to Francis & Rachel (Magee) Reno. He married Anna King in Springfield, Clark County, Ohio on 11 Aug. 1830 and moved to Medina by 1840.
    In the 1840 census for Medina, Ohio, Joseph Reno's household includes 2 Black people: a male, 24-35 years old, most likely Joseph and one female, aged 10-24 years old, probably Anna.
    In the 1850 Census, Joseph is entered as a Mulatto; age 36, born in Ohio; Occupation, barber; personal property valued at $1600; Rhoda, aged 34; born in Ohio; race not indicated, and Abram Reno, aged 27, listed as mulatto; barber; $800 in personal property.
    In the May 22, 1855 Medina County Gazette: "J.H. Maxell and Alex McClure have purchased the space next to the Exchange Buildings formerly occupied by Jo. Reno, and intend to erect a splendid store, three stories high, immediately."
    For the 1860 census in Medina County, Joseph is listed as 45 years old (no race indicated). He is a barber, with property valued at $1500. "Roda" is age 43.
    Joseph's mother, Rachel (Magee) Reno, died in Medina on 22 May 1864 at his home.

In the History of Medina County and Ohio (1881) on page 248:
        "At another time a larceny had been committed in Medina, and Joseph Reno, a colored man, had ferreted out the thief and arrested him, and fearing that he might not be allowed to testify on account of his color, so induced the criminal to confess in the presence of a white witness as to effect his conviction. Reno was offered as a witness and the State offered to show he was more than half white, but Judge Dean would not hear any such proof and decided that, by "inspection" Reno was a "negro" and refused to allow him to testify. At that time, by the laws of Ohio "negroes and mulattoes" were not competent witnesses where a white man was a party."
       
        In a March 1870 Gazette -- "Joe" Reno an old colored man at the American House, known to all the world and the rest of mankind as just the best fellow in the world to have around a hotel, and whose jovial countenance is never invisible, though under a cloud, celebrated the adoption of the 15th Amendment by taking a trip to Cleveland, stopping with his old friend Terrell of the Forest City House. We trust he had a pleasant visit."   Terrell was a previous manager of the American House.And just a month later, also in the Gazette:

"FIRST VOTE UNDER THE 15TH AMENDMENT"
    "At the election in this village last Monday, Mr. Joseph Reno - everybody knows "Joe" - cast his first vote. Sixty years old, and a taxpayer for may years, he now comes into the exercise of a right which all men are bound to respect. It is needless to say that Joseph voted a straight Republican ticket."  During this time period, the Republican party, the party of Abraham Lincoln, was considered favorably by the African American Community.
    For the 1870 Medina County Census, Joseph was listed as a Mulatto, but now his occupation was listed as "Domestic Servant". In the house with him, is Hannah, aged 40 with Personal Property worth $4380. Also listed is May, aged 15, Mulatto, Mandy age 9, Mulatto and Elena, age 1, Mulatto.
    The relationship between Joseph and the people he lived with is never defined. His wife, Anna, never shows up by name in the census records with him. Joseph Reno is not listed in the index for marriage or divorce records for this time period.

Joe Reno Dead.—
    Joeseph Reno, who was shot by young Hitchcock, died last Tuesday morning at 10 o’clock. From the first he did not believe he should recover, although physicians and others supposed he would. He seemed to be doing well until Saturday last, when his symptoms became worse; on Sunday he was paralyzed in his left side; and from that time till Tuesday had frequent spasms, but retained consciousness up to the moment of death.
    A post mortem examination made by the physicians showed that both the upper and lower jay-bones were broken, an artery cut, and the upper portion of the spinal column fractured, a would recovery from which was impossible. A portion of the bullet was also found in the wound.
    Probably no person in Norther ohio was more widely known than “old Joe.” He came to Medina in 1836, and was employed at the Chidister House as barber and porter, where he remained for years, until Wm. L. Terrell went into the American House, when Joe was employed there, and has remained there ever since; the successive proprietors not being willing to dispense with his services. He was always a quiet, useful man; and although he could neither read nor write, kept well posted on public matters. He knew everything that ever happened in Medina, and was th safe custodian of a vast real of local and private history. He was liberal and made no blow about it; and as honest as the day was long. His objection to having people of his own color lying around loose was to heath that he generally influenced them to make themselves useful or seek another residence. It was a wonder to everybody when he ever slept, for he was “up and dressed” and on duty at the hotel at any hour of the night or day. His age and his religion were mysteries to himself as well as to everybody else; yet he was in the habit of calling himself a Catholic and putting his age at fifty-seven. He was, at near as we can learn, about sixty-five years old — though it is possible he may have been ten or fifteen years older or younger than that. He was born in this state, near Columbus, and his mother died a few years ago at the advanced age of one hundred and four years.
    He was the recipient of the best care and kindest attentions on the part of Mr. and Mrs. Warren of the American House, where the most comfortable quarters were provided for him; and he had the sympathy of hosts of friends in town and country. The funeral was largely attended on Wednesday morning at 9 o’clcock.
Medina Gazette (Medina, Ohio). 5 July 1872.
67798. Dora Etta Hitchcock. Born on 20 May 1856 in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana. Dora Etta died in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, on 30 Dec 1915; she was 59. Buried on 2 Jan 1916 in Newaygo Cemetery.

Notes from Alice Hope Race Joyce indicate Dora was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. However, other sources say she was born in Medina, Ohio. 1880 census says she was born in Indiana. Kent County death records state she was born in Ohio.

George Hitchcock’s pension application states that Dora E. was born 20 May 1857, not 1856.

Dora was not listed as living with her family in Medina in 1870. She may have been the 15 year-old Dora Hitchcock listed in this census:

1870 Federal Census. Benton Township, Berrien County, Michigan
Roll 663, page 84A
    Washington Hunter, 43, fruit grower, $15,000 real estate, $2000 personal estate, b. NY
    Agnes Hunter, 36, b. OH
    Conklin Hunter, 17, b. OH
    Arthur Hunter, 13, b. OH
    Wilber Dual, 19, farm laborer, b. OH
    Dora Hitchcock, 15, domestic servant, b. MI
[Washington C. Hunter (b. 15 Sep 1827, d. 18 Jan 1911 Benton Harbor, son of John & Jane (Humphries) Hunter) m. Agnes Dual (dau. of Wilbur & Mariah (Conklin) Duel, also spelled Deuel), both of Salem, Champaign Co., OH]

In 1880 Dora was living her family in Medina, age 24.

Newaygo Republican 24 April 1902, “School News”:
“May Joslin and Geo. Harden are both enjoying a double expansion this week. They hope however to return to their normal size soon. Two other children of Mr. Harden are also having the mumps.”

30 November 1905, “Local News,” Newaygo Republican:
“Dr. Dodge of Big Rapids, and Dr. Long of Fremont assisted by Dr. Massey of this village performed a critical surgical operation of Mrs. D. L. Harding on Tuesday last. At this writing the operation seems to have been successful.”

7 December 1905, “Local News,” Newaygo Republican:
“The operation upon Mrs. D. L. Harden which was made ten days ago appears to have been entirely successful. While the patient is suffering consideralbe pain, temperature and respiration are normal and no doubt is felt of her entire recovery.”

Kent County Death Records indicate Dora died of Myocarditis on 30 Dec. 1915 in Grand Rapids. She was 59 years 7 months and 10 days old. She was married, a housewife and born in Ohio. Her parents were George Hitchcock and Jane K. Mc Comb. Both of their birthplaces were unknown.

Death Certificate: State of Michigan, Department of State - Division of Vital Statistics, Grand Rapids, Kent County. Register Number 1704.
Dora E. Harden died 30 December 1915 of Myocardio Endocarditis. She was born 20 May 1856 in Ohio and was 59 years, seven months and ten days old at death. The death certificate states she was married at the time of her death, although the divorce was already final. Dora was a housewife and her parents were George Hitchock and Jane K. McComb. Their birthplaces were unknown. David Harden of 1860 Worden St. was the informant. Dora was buried 2 January 1916 in Newaygo, Michigan.

Obituary - unknown source

    Mrs. Dora E. Harden was born near Indianapolis, Indiana, May 20, 1856., and died at Butterworth hospital in Grand Rapids, December 30, 1915, at the age of 59 years, 7 months and 10 days.
    She moved with her parents to Medina, Ohio, where she lived until she was married to D. L. Harden September 25, 1880. In 1882 she came with her husband to Newaygo, where she has spent the most of her life.
    There were born to Mr. and Mrs. Harden six children, two girls and four boys, three of the boys and one of the girls having preceeded the mother to the great beyond. The two children remaining to mourn the loss of a kind and loving mother are George of Grand Rapids and Mrs. Irving Race of Newaygo.
    Mrs. Harden was a life long member of the Episcopal church and lived and died in the triumphs of a living faith in her Saviour, whom she found an ever present comfort during the heavy burdens of life and awful hours of suffering which she endured.
The remians were brought to Newaygo and funeral services, conducted by Rev. G. K. Fairbank, were held Sunday. Interment in Newaygo cemetery.

Cards of Thanks

We desire to thank the nurses of Butterworth hospital for their kindness during the recent illness of our beloved wife and mother; also themotormen and conductors of Hall street car barns for their sympathy and beautiful floral offering.

        David. L. Harden,
        Mr. and Mrs. George Harden
        Mr. and Mrs. Erwin Race


WORDS COMPOSED ON THE DEATH OF MRS. DORA HARDEN, IN LOVING MEMORY

Mother has gone and left me lonely,
    Made a void which none can fill,
But the Saviour sayeth calmly,
    “Troubled heart, oh! peace be still.”

Mother’s words of love and truth
    Are now hushed forever more,
But we know she dwells with Jesus
    On that happy, blissful shore.

Though we miss her form and presence
    In this land of toil and strife,
But she has crossed Death’s silent river,
    She hath gained eternal life.

I will follow this blessed Savior
    That dear mother lived to love,
And the ties of earth are broken,
    Still she lives and reigns above.

Jesus, Saviour, keep me faithful
    ‘Till my soul has reached the goal,
Then I’ll meet my darling mother
    In that homeland of the soul.

There no parting words are spoken,
    There no tear bedims the eye,
There no ties are ever broken
    In that haven beyond the sky.

Every one who trusts in Jesus
    And obeys the Lord’s commands,
You can meet the long-lost loved ones
    Who have gone to happy lands.

Jesus Christ, the world redeemer,
    Has invited all to come;
Now, dear children, serve Him truly,
    You shall gain a heavenly home.

Ferry, Mich. -- Mrs. Belle Van Camp
Unattributed newspaper clipping found in the Harden bible owned by Erwin Race, Jr.
On 26 Sep 1880 when Dora Etta was 24, she married David Louis Harden (66488) , son of Samuel Harrison Harden (64253) (11 Jan 1836-16 Aug 1901) & Sarah Ann Grubaugh (64547) (28 Aug 1835-12 Jul 1917), in Medina, Medina County, Ohio. Born on 22 Jul 1857 in Loudenville, Ashland County, Ohio. Buried on 11 Jan 1927 in Newaygo Cemetery. David Louis died in Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan, on 9 Jan 1927; he was 69. Occupation: Paper hanger. They were divorced on 21 Apr 1913 in Newaygo, Newaygo County, Michigan.

Medical: Died of Myocarditis.

Marriage License Records from Medina County, Ohio:

        Marriage License
David L. Harden of Richland County having made application for a MARRIAGE LICENSE for himself and Dora E. Hitchcock of said county, and being duly sworn, on his oath, says he is of the age of twenty-one years, that he has no wife living, and that said Dora E. Hitchcock is of the age of 18 years, that she has no husband living, and that the parties are not nearer than second cousins, as he verily believes.
        Subscribed and sworn to, the 25th day of September, 1880,
        Albert Mason, Probate Judge
        David L. Harden

1884 Census, Brooks Township, Newaygo County, Michigan, David and Dora are living next to his parents Samuel H. and Sarah Harden. Both are 26. George is seven months old and was born in Michigan. Both David and Dora are listed as having been born in Ohio. David’s parents were born in Pennsyvania. Dora’s mother was born in Ohio and her father in Vermont or Virgina.

According to daughter Ida Frances Harden’s obituary, the Harden family moved from Newaygo to Medina Ohio from about 1890 to 1899.

22 February 1900, “Local and General News,” Newaygo Republican:
“Get Harden’s prices on wall paper before you buy, at Gauweiler’s.” and, “See Harden and get prices on wall paper, window shades, room molding and paints.”

1900 Federal Census. Brooks Township, Newaygo County, Michigan
David was 45, born in July 1857, and a house painter. Dora was 44 and was born in May, 1856. He was born in Ohio and she in Indiana. His father was born in Pennsylvania and his mother in Virginia. Her parents were both born in Ohio. They have been married 19 years and own their own home. George J. was born December 1883, Ida F. in July 1887, Donna J. in June 1892 and Carl b. at February 1898. George and Ida were born in Michigan and Donna and Carl in Ohio.
David’s sister Sylvia Daniel’s family is listed on the same census page

Newaygo Republican, “Local and General News,” 2 May 1901:
“D.L. Harden is repapering Gleason’s drug store and making it shine like a bottle.”

Newaygo Republican, “Local and General News,” 18 July 1901:
”D.L. Harden is suffering with a severe attack of la grippe.”

6 March 1902, Newaygo Republican, “Local and General News”:
“D. L. Harden is in Big Prairie township this week, finishing the inside of Township Treasurer Charles P. Dunham’s splendid new house with paint and paper, and also doing some decorating in Supervisor Haight’s new home.”

29 May 1902, Newaygo Republican, “Real Estate Transfers”:
“Fred W. Riblet and wife to David L. Harden blk 101 Newaygo -- $204.”

17 July 1902, Newaygo Republican, “Additional Local News”:
“D. L. Harden is painting the residence of Spafford Shear of Everett this week.”

15 June 1905, “Local News,” Newaygo Republican:
“George F. Cook of Grove was in town on Tuesday last and took D. L. Harden home with him to do some paper hanging and painting. Mr. Cook is looking in much better health.”

22 March 1906, Newaygo Republican, “Local News”:
“D. L. Harden made a business trip to Grand Rapids Tuesday, returning yesterday.”

23 August 1906, “Local News,” Newaygo Republican:
“D. L. Harden went to Grand Rapids Monday and returned Tuesday, accompanied by his mother, Mrs. Sara A. Harden who will remain here for some time.”

18 October 1906, “Local News,” Newaygo Republican:
“D. L. Harden has just completed the painting and paper hanging on the interior of Mr. McPhail’s house. Mr. McPhail has been making extensive repairs and when he gets the cement on the exterior of his house he will have as comfortable a residence as there is on the pike from here to Croton.

1910 Federal Census. Brooks Township, Newaygo County, Michigan
Roll T624_666, page 8A
East Street, Newaygo Village
    David L. Harden, head, 52, m. 29 years, b. OH, parents b. PA, paper hanger, general work
    Dora E. Harden, wife, 53, m. 29 years, 6 children, 3 living, b. IN, father b. OH, mother b. PA
    Donna Harden, daugheter, 17, b. OH, father b. OH, mother b. IN
    Carl H. Harden, son, 12, b. ditto
    Sarah A. Harden, mother, 74, widowed, 8 children, 6 living, b. PA, parents b. PA

1912 and 1913 Newaygo County Circuit Court Records. These Records indicate that Dora E. Harden began divorce proceedings against David Harden on 9 February, 1912. David was served with a supeona at that time. He did not appear. Circuit court records for 26 April 1912 state, “Personal service of a Supeona was made upon defendant Feby 9, 1912 by R. B. Hall deputy Sherriff of said County as appears by the return of said officer now on file in this Court, and Cause that the default of said defendant for want of an appearance was entered April 26, 1912. That defendent Stated to Affiant that he would never live with complainant again and would give her one half of all his real estate for her support. That the witnesses for complainant are sacattered some living in Newaygo and some in Grand Rapids and all are busy at work and there fore it would be not only very inconvenient for them to attent a session of Court in White Cloud, but also expensive.”

Three depositions were taken, all three indicated David was verbally abusive, one indicated he was also physically abusisve. Donna June Harden, testified as follows,: (Note, the stenographer taking notes is an uncertain speller).

    “My age is twenty years. My Brother Carl is fifteen year’s old, my occupation is school teacher. I am now teaching school in the township of Ensly, Newaygo Co. Mich. I have a vacation this week, next week I will commence teaching again and will busy for the next twelve weeks and could not get away to testify. My testimony must be taken this week if (it) is to be used.
    “The parties in this case are my Father and my Mother. I have been away from home most of the time for the last three years part of the time teaching part of the time going to school before that I lived at home all of the time. I know as far back as I can remember my Father has ben verry unreasonable toward my Mother and for the past four or five years he has been growing worse scolding her without cause. I have heard him use rough and violent language toward her I prefer not to use the language he did. I frequently remanstrated with and told him he was wrong in his actions it wasent often he would listen to me sometimes he would say it was my Mother’s fault.
    “It was verry seldam I cold see where she was to blame he is verry overbaring and tirnical tauward my mother and has ben so for five or six years (maybe longer) or as long as I can remeber and seams to bee growing worse they cirtenly can not live togather unless he changes his disposition.”
    Question from the Judge: “Do you know of eny fact matter or circumstance whitch would in enyway tend to wreak complaints case for Divorce if so State the same partickulary and fuly.”
    Answer: “I do not. I think she had ought to have a Divorce.” Signed, Donna J. Harden

On 14 April 1913, Albert G. Day, Dora’s attorney, writes to the Hon. Joseph Barton the Circuit Court Judge in Big Rapids who will decide the divorce case:

Dear Sir.
In (the) above case (Harden vs. Harden) I enclose the decree which I think the evidence justifies and think is proper.
Would you please examine proofs taken and submitted at last term, and I think you will say that his decree is proper.
        Yours,
        A. G. Day
P.S. I think the evidence and certificate cover every objection and suggestion that could be offered and I say, candidly, that oil and water cannot mix, and it is so with these parties.


FINAL DIVORCE DECREE: (D-356)
STATE OF MICHIGAN
THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF NEWAYGO IN CHANCERY

Dora E. Harden, complaintant

        vs.

David L. Harden, Deft.

At a session of said court held at the Court House in the Village of White Cloud in said County on the 21 st day of April A.D. 1913:

Present, Hon. Joseph Barton, Circuit Judge

    This cause came on to be heard upon the Bill of Complaint taken as conferred, after personal service of a supoena to appear and answer for want of such appearance, and proofs taken before a special Commplainer appointed by the court, and after duly considering the same, it appearing to the Court now here that the defendant is guilty of the various acts charged in the bill of Complaint and that it is impossible to effect a reconciliation between the parties to this case, and that it is for the best interests of both parities that they should be divorced, it is ordered, adjudged and decreed, and this court by virtue of the power and authority therein visited doth order, adjudge and decree as follows:
First:
    That the marriage between the complainant Dora E. Harden and the defendant David L. Harden be dissolved and the same is hereby dissolved accordingly and each of said parties is forever freed from the obligations of said marriage.
Second:
    That the said Dora E. Harden shall be and is hereby visited with a sure and indefeaseable title, in fee simple, of all those pieces of land in the County of Newaygo State of Michigan known and described as the East half of the West half of the South East Quarter of the South West Quarter of Section Nineteen (19) in town Twelve (12) North of Range Twelve (12) west, containing Ten acres of land, also Block One hundred and Nine (109) of the Village of Newaygo in said County, except a strip six rods in width of the South Westerly side thereof, which property and the title thereto shall be taken and received by her in full satisfaction of all claim she may now have or may hereafter have for dower, or alimony against said David L. Harden, in any property which said David L. Harden now owns, or may hereafter own, or in which he now had, or may hereafter have any interest.
Third:
    All the household furniture and other personal property now in the house upon said premises shall by the sole property of said Dora E. Harden.
Fourth:
    That the said David L. Harden shall pay the mortgage now upon the real estate above mentioned in order that the said complainant may have an unincumbered title thereto.

Marriage License Announcement: Grand Rapids Press, 22 September 1916, Page 22.
David L. Harden, Ida R. Miner. He was 59 and she was 43.

Kent County Marriage License records have David L. Harden marrying Ida R. Bailey Miner on 28 Sep 1916 in Grand Rapids. He was born in Loudenville, Ohio and she in Kent County, MI. He is 59 and a paperhanger, she is 42 and not employed. He has been married once and she twice. His parents are Samuel H. Harden and Sarah A. Grubaugh and hers are Ansel E. Bailey and Rilla A. Patterson. They were married by Roy C. Lord, clergyman, with Mr. and Mrs. William Barlow as witnesses.

1920 Federal Census. Grand Rapids, Kent County, Michigan.
Roll 778, page 2B
517 1/2 Jefferson Avenue
    David Harden, head, 62, b. OH, parents b. MI, paper hanger
    Ida Harden, wife, 45, b. MI, father b. NY, mother b. MI
    Hazel Minor, daughter, 13, b. MI, parents b. MI
    Dorothy Minor, daugher, 7, b. ditto
    Olive Minor, daughter, 4, b. ditto
    Arthur Harden, son, 2 years 5 months, b. MI, parents b. MI

Says Local Men Heirs to Fortune
Henry Harrison, Agent of English Estate, States Hardens Get $160,000
Grand Rapids Press, March 18, 1922, page 1
    That two Grand Rapids residents, D.L. Harden and S.J. Harden and also Harold H. Harden of Sparta have come into a fortune rated at approximately $160,000, is the statement made by Henry Harrison, whose home is near Sault Ste. Marie and who is an agent interested in the settlement of estates. The other heirs, according to Mr. Harrison, are Inez Zolver of Craigmon, Ida., Rose B. Kincaid, Mabton, Wash., and Sylvia Daniels whose address is not know but it is believed she lives in Detroit.
    The estate comes from great-uncles in England. Two of them are dead. There are two others living. It is expected the inheritance left by the two dead uncles will be apportioned to the heirs in a short time.

Brothers Take Calmly News of English Fortune
Grand Rapids Press, March 20, 1922, page 2
 Stories of English fortunes to which they may be heirs, as told in a story in the Press Saturday, failed to excite Samuel J. Harden 815 Oakdale-av., and David L. Harden, 517 1/2 Jefferson -av, brothers, when they were informed of the fact.
    “I’m going out on my regular lodge work trip as usual and let English fortunes take care of themselves until I receive official notice to collect my share,” said Samuel Harden who is district deputy of the Modern Woodmen of America. “Our ancestors left England nine generations ago,” he said, “I have heard tales of paternal anger which drove out a son and his unwelcome bride. The couple and their descendants lived in Ireland, Switzerland and Germany. My grandfather and father came from Germany to Pennsylvania.”
    David Harden, who engages in the wallpaper business, likewise was calm when informed of the news that he would get a fortune from England. A third brother, Harold H. Harden of Sparta, admitted he felt somewhat excited over prospects of a fortune, but he said he guessed he’d keep on with his job in the factory until he knew something more definite.”

Grand Rapids City Directory 1924
 David L. Harden, decorator, h 517 1/2 Jefferson av SE

Death certificate number 38 Kent County, Michigan states that David Lewis Harden died of uremia on January 9, 1927 in Grand Rapids. He was born in Ohio, a painter and his parents were Samuel Harden and Sarah Grubeck. He was 69 years, five months and eight days old at his death.

Newaygo Cemetery
    Dora E. Harden, buried 1/2/1916. Plot: Section H, Lot 179, Grave 5
    David Harden, buried 1/19/1927. Plot: Section H, Lot 179, Grave 1
    Baby Harden. Plot: Section H, Lot 179, Grave 1
    Raymond Lewis Harden. Plot: Section H, Lot 179, Grave 1
Their children include:
68458i.
Raymond Louis Harden (Died young) (13 Aug 1881-23 Sep 1883)
68459ii.
George Harrison Harden (1 Dec 1883-25 Jul 1956)
68460iii.
Infant Son Harden (Died soon) (5 Dec 1885-5 Dec 1885)
68461iv.
Ida Frances Harden (Died unmarried) (25 Jul 1887-18 Nov 1904)
68462v.
Donna June Harden (27 Jun 1892-20 Apr 1973)
68463vi.
Carl Brewster Harden (Died unmarried) (20 Feb 1898-17 Jul 1915)
67799. Ida Ruth Hitchcock. Born on 29 Aug 1859 in Medina, Medina County, Ohio. Ida Ruth died in Medina Township, Medina County, Ohio, on 3 Apr 1922; she was 62. Buried on 5 Apr 1922 in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina.

Ida Ruth, also known as Ruth Ida. Mentioned in the Pension Application of George M. Hitchcock as the father of Charles A. Hitchcock

1871
The names of the students who stood highest in their respective grades after testing included Ida Hitchcock.
Medina County Gazette (Medina, Ohio) 18 October 1878, Page 7.

Marriage Record. Summit County Ohio
Volume 38, page 615
    8 Mar 1921. Jo. W. G. Fast, minister of Akron, Ohio
    George Franklin Presley, 60 years on 28 Feb 1921, b. Medina, residing in Medina, Mason, son of David Presley & Susan Brown, once previously married now divorced
    Ida Ruth Presley, 62 years on 21 Aug 1921, b. Medina, residence 1614 Malasia Rd, Akron, daughter of George Hickock & Jane McComb, once previously married, her married name being Ida Ruth Presley

Ohio Deaths
Ida Ruth Pressley, b. 29 Aug 1859, d. 3 Apr 1922 in Medina Township, married, housekeeper, b. Medina, Ohio, daughter of George Hitchcock (b. MI) & Jane McComb, informant Frank Pressley

Obituary, Medina Sentinal, April 6, 1922
        Ida Ruth HItchcock was born in Medina, August 29, 1859, died at her home in Medina Township, April 3, 1922, at the age of 62 years, 7 months and 5 days.
        She was the second youngest of seven children born to Geo. and Jane Hitchcock. She being the last surviving. She was married to Geo. F. Presley in 1895. To this union three children were born, Mrs. Geo. F. Lind, Edward W. Presley of Cleveland and Dora at home.
        She was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. She loved her home and her delight was to be with and care for her loved ones. Her kind and cheerful disposition won the love and respect of all who knew her. She was cheerful through all her sickness.
        She leaves to mourn her loss her husband, three children, two grandchildren, one niece, one nephew and many friends.
        A kind and loving wife, mother and neighbor has gone to her reward.
Ca 1893 Ida Ruth married George Franklin Presley, son of David Presley (2 Jun 1820-10 Feb 1907) & Susan Rounds (ca 1821-Jan 1889). Born on 15 Jan 1862 in Ohio. George Franklin died in Medina, Medina County, Ohio, on 12 Jun 1952; he was 90.717 Buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina. They were divorced. Divorced and remarried.

1870 Federal Census. Lafayette Township, Medina County, Ohio
Roll M593-1241, page 318A
Post Office Whittlesey
    David Presley, 48, farm laborer
    Susan Presley, 48, keeping house
    Alfred Presley, 25, laborer
    David Presley, 18
    Louisa Presley, 16
    Mary H. Presley, 11
    Franklin Presley, 7
All were born in Ohio except Susan who was born in New York

1880 Federal Census. York, Medina County, Ohio
Roll 1047, pages 451C-D
    David Presley, 60, laborer, b. OH, parents b. PA
    Susan Presley, 60, wife, keeping house, b. NY, father b. PA, mother b. MA
    Alfred Presley, 35, son, laborer, b. OH, father b. Oh, mother b. NY
    David Presley, 28, son, laborer, b. ditto
    N.A. Presley, 20, daughter, at home, b. ditto
    Franklin Presley, 17, son, b. ditto

1900 Federal Census. Medina, Medina County, Ohio
Roll 1302, page 22A
    George F. Pressley, head, b. Feb 1862, 38, m. 7 years, b. OH, father b. OH, mother b. NY, mail carrier U..
    Ida R. Pressley, wife, b. Aug 1859, 40, m. 7 years, 2 children, both living, b. OH, father b. OH, mother b MD
    Violet Pressley, b. Oct 1894, 5, b. OH, parents b. OH, at school
    Edward W. Pressley, b. Jul 1889, 10 months, b. ditto

1910 Federal Census, Montville, Medina County, Ohio
Roll T624_1205, page 1A
    George Franklin Presley, head, 47, m. 16 years, b. Ohio, parents b. CT, mason, brickwork
    Ida Ruth Presley, wife, 50, m. 16 years, 3 children, all living, b. Ohio, parents b. Ohio
    Violet Presley, daughter, 15 b. Ohio, parents b. Ohio
    Elward Walter Presley, son, 10, b. ditto
    Dora Pearl Presley, daughter, 9, b. ditto

1920 Federal Census, Medina, Medina County, Ohio
Roll 1417, page 2B
    Geo. F. Pressley, head, 58, divorced, b. Ohio, parents b. CT, mason, housebuilding
    Ida Pressley, housekeeper, 60, divorced, b. Ohio, parents b. Ohio, housekeeper, private home
They are divorced, however she is still his housekeeper and it states on the form that she is “living with a friend.” George is a mason. He owns his own home. None of the children are ennumerated with them.

Spring Grove Cemetery, Medina, Medina County, Ohio
Row 2
 David Presley, b. 1821, d. 1907
 Frank G. Presley, b. 15 Jan 1862, d. 12 Jun 1952
    Ida R. Presley, b. 1861, d. 1922
Their children include:
69246i.
Violet Presley (3 Oct 1894-1 Jul 1962)
69247ii.
Edward Walter Presley (23 Jul 1899-20 Mar 1986)
69248iii.
Dora Pearl Presley (26 Aug 1900-Jan 1994)
67800. Catherine May Hitchcock. Born on 9 Apr 1865 in Medina County, Ohio. Catherine May died in Newaygo, Newaygo County, Michigan, on 26 Dec 1902; she was 37. Buried in Newaygo Cemetery.

Medical: Cause of death was acute insanity.

Ohio Marriages
 25 Mar 1883, Medina
    John Moore & Katie May Hitchcock

Medina Co. Gazette; Transfer of Real Estate Week ending March 12 1887:
Keziah J. Hitchcock to Katie M. Moore vil lot Medina $600. Medina Co. Pioneer Surnames: M - The Life and Times Births and Deaths of Our Ancestors, Compiled by Beverly Elizabeth, Masthof Press, Morgantown, PA. 2003. page 110

1900 Federal Census. Medina, Medina County, Ohio
Roll 1302, pabe 6B
    Catherine M. Hitchcock, b. Apr 1868, 21, b. OH, parents b. NY, dress maker

Newaygo County Death Certificate indicates she died of acute insanity. Catherine was a dressmaker, was born in Ohio, died in the village of Newaygo and was 36 years, eight months and 17 days old at the time of death. Her parents were George Hitchcock and Jane Mc Comb; both were born in Ohio.

Obituary - unattributed

    On Christmas day, Mrs. May Hitchcock Harden, wife of Harry Harden, aged 37 years.
    Mrs. Harden had been an invalid for several years and had undergone several surigical operations in the hope of having her health restored, but failed. She was married on Thanksgiving day and was seized with the illness that proved fatal on the same day. Her husband and relatives desire to return their thanks to the friends who so kindly assisted them in their hour of need.
On 25 Mar 1883 when Catherine May was 17, she first married John Moore in Medina, Medina County, Ohio.
On 27 Nov 1902 when Catherine May was 37, she second married Harold H. Harden (66494) , son of Samuel Harrison Harden (64253) (11 Jan 1836-16 Aug 1901) & Sarah Ann Grubaugh (64547) (28 Aug 1835-12 Jul 1917), in Newaygo, Newaygo County, Michigan. Born on 16 Mar 1874 in Loudenville, Ashland County, Ohio.671 Harold H. died in Sparta, Kent County, Michigan, on 14 Feb 1955; he was 80. Buried on 16 Feb 1955 in Newaygo Cemetery, Section G, Lot 350, Grave 1. Occupation: Laborer.

Medical: Died of Myocardial failure.

Harold first married Catherine (Hitchcock) Moore, widow of John Moore; second Beatrice All; third Mary Smith; and fourth Elizabeth Kauffman.

Samuel Harrison Harden’s Civil War Pension Record has Harold born 16 March 1875.

Newaygo County Marriage License states that Harold and Catherine Hitchcock were married on 27 November 1902 in Newaygo. He is a laborer and she is a dressmaker. She has been married before to someone named Moore. Both were born in Ohio. He is 27 and she is 34. His parents are Samuel Harden and Sarah Grubaugh. Hers are George M. Hitchcock and Kizah J. Hews. They were married by Lewis J. Crawford with W. N. Brown and Hattie Stickney of Newaygo as witnesses.

Newaygo County marriage records state that Harold and Beatrice married on 2 Sep 1907 in Newaygo. He is 32, was born in Ohio and is a farmer. She is 19, born in Michigan, residing in Lowell, MI and is a domestic. His parents are Samuel H. Harden and Sarah Grubaugh, and hers are Lewis All and Mary E. Mosher. George Van Wingarden, minister, marries them with witnesses Clinton A. and Bertha M. Tresler.

1910 Federal Census. Grant Township, Newaygo County, Michigan
Roll T624_666, page 7B
    Harry Harding, 35, m2. 2 years, b. OH, parents b. unknown, farm laborer, working out
    Beatrice Harding, 22, m1. 2 years,, b. MI, father b. NY, mother b. MI
    Kathryn Harding, 3, b. MI, father b. OH, mother b. MI
Harry was unemployed for 27 weeks of the previous year.

Michigan Marriages702
Return of Marriages in the County of Mecosta
    28 Apr 1913, Big Rapids. Thos. J. Delanty, pastor St. Mary’s Church. Witnesses Andrew Smith and Eva Favercam of Big Rapids
    Harold H. Harden, 38, of Newaygo Co., b. Ohio, laborer, son of Samuel H. Harden & Sarah A. Grobach, m. once before
    Marie E. Smith, 24, of Big Rapids, b. Michigan, daughter of Andrew Smith & May Lester

8 May 1913, Newaygo Republican, “Local News”:
“Harold H. Harden of this village and Miss Elizabeth Smith of Big Rapids were united in marriage Monday evening of last week, at the home of the bride’s parents.”

World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918
Registered Ionia, MI. 12 Sep 1918
    Harold H. Harden. Clarksville, Ionia Co., MI
    Age 43. b. 16 Mar 1875
    Occupation: farm help, Clarence Trowbridge, Clarksville
    Nearest relative: Elizabeth E. Harden (wife), Clarksville
    Medium height, medium build

Newaygo County Marriage Licences indicate that Harold married Elizabeth Kauffman Birman on 4 Sep 1918 in Newaygo. Both have been married twice. She is a domestic and 46. He is a farmer living in Lake Odessa. His parents are Samuel Harden and Sarah Grubaugh, and her father is ??? Kauffman. Douglas King, clergyman, marries them with Esther L. and O. E. King as witnesses.

1920 Federal Census. Campbell Township, Ionia County, Michigan
Roll 772, page 7A
North half of the township
    Harold Harden, head, 44, b. OH, parents b. OH, laborer, general work
    Elizabeth Harden, wife, 48, b. PA, parents b. PA
    Estaven Berman, step-son, 9, b. MI, parents b. PA

1930 Federal Census. Clarksville Village, Ionia County, Michigan
Roll 992, page 3A
Campbell Township
    Harold H. Harden, head, 55, m. age 17, b. OH, parents b. US, day laborer, odd jobs
    Elizabeth Harden, wife, 58, m. age 16, b. PA, parents b. PA

Kent County Death Records state that Harold died on 14 February 1955 in Sparta, Michigan. Death was caused by Hypostatic Pneumonia (one day) and Myocardial Insuffiency (two days). He had lived in Sparta seven years at 168 Cherry Street. He was a widower, a farm laborer and was born March 16, 1874 in Loudenville Ohio. His parents were Samuel John Harden and Elizabeth Graubaw. His wife was Elizabeth Harden. The informant was Phyllis Strauss of Grand Rapids. He was buried at the Newaygo Cemetery 16 February 1955 from the Hessel Funeral Home in Sparta. # 64118

Newaygo Cemetery
    Catherine C. Harden, 1865-1902.
    Harold H. Harden. 1875-1955. Plot: Section G, Lot 350, Grave 1
Previous · Next