Entries from the 1953 school year have been added to the database Hendricks County Students Attending Indiana Colleges, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a listing of some of the students from Hendricks County who were either attending or graduating from various colleges in Indiana, as compiled from information sent by college officials to area newspapers. The list was comprised of the student's name, hometown and class, and sometimes included their major or the degree they were receiving.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information at one time or another.
The database is an ongoing project. It currently covers the period of 1944-1948 and 1953-1961.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Marriage Index Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Marriage Book Volume 32 (3 February 1970 - 14 May 1971) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Marriage Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It includes the names of the bride and groom, their date of marriage and the corresponding book and page number.
This index is in progress - so far it covers the period of 1904-1971, as well as 1824-1848.
This index is in progress - so far it covers the period of 1904-1971, as well as 1824-1848.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Surname Index to Probate Order Books Updated
Entries from the surname index included at the front of Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 12 (12 June 1884 - 3 July 1886) have been added to the database Surname Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The surname index was compiled by the clerk at the time they were writing the entries. It includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.), and the corresponding book and page number.
It is an ongoing project - currently the surname index covers the years 1880-1886.
It is an ongoing project - currently the surname index covers the years 1880-1886.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: North Salem Boy Named For An Indian Chief (1935)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, June 13, 1935 - page 1, column 3:
WAS NAMED FOR INDIAN CHIEFTAIN
Centennial Committee Brings Out Zimmerman Family History
In making researches for the North Salem Centennial celebration to be held in that town July 25 to 28, many interesting stories are being brought to light. Among them is the story of Te-go-re-tan-ico Zimmerman, the nineteen year old lad who lies buried in the wayside cemetery west of North Salem, known as the Zimmerman graveyard. This Indian name was given to him in honor of an Indian chief who saved the life of John Zimmerman, the lad's father.
According to the story handed down, when John Zimmerman was a youth of sixteen, he [along] with another youth was captured by hostile Indians. They were kept for many months by the tribe and were well-treated. The boys were young daredevils who enjoyed all kinds of sports and never lost an opportunity to engage in battle with clubs, fists or any other weapons, so they furnished the Indians with much enjoyment.
Their utter disregard of danger and extreme courage aroused the admiration of the old chief, Te-fo-re-tan-ico [sic], who wished to adopt them. They refused to go into the tribe and the chief gave them their freedom at the risk of arousing the resentment of the tribe. In gratitude, Zimmerman promised to name his first male offspring for the Indian.
Later he married, left North Carolina, migrated to Indiana and secured a vast acreage. The original boundaries of his land extended from the present Frank Waters' farm south to the Mahoney hills. In rearing his family he remembered his promise and gave his son the Indian name. When the youth was nineteen he became ill and died from milk sickness, a disease quite prevalent in Indiana at that time. He was laid to rest on a hillside of his father's farm, and a simple monument bearing his epitaph marks his grave.
John Zimmerman was the great uncle of our local townsman, George Zimmerman, whose father came here to operate a distillery for his uncle. The still was located at the foot of the hill by the Zimmerman graveyard. Whiskey was sold at thirty cents a gallon and kept at the home to accommodate settlers.
The vast acreage secured by John Zimmerman was made possible by land selling as low as $1.25 per acre. One forty acre tract, now owned by Charles Clay, was sold for the consideration of one wagon and team of horses.
[NOTE: According to Plainfield library's Hendricks County cemeteries index, Taco Retanico Zimmerman (1824 - 1844) is buried at Zimmerman Cemetery, which is listed as being near County Road 675N and County Road 775W.]
WAS NAMED FOR INDIAN CHIEFTAIN
Centennial Committee Brings Out Zimmerman Family History
In making researches for the North Salem Centennial celebration to be held in that town July 25 to 28, many interesting stories are being brought to light. Among them is the story of Te-go-re-tan-ico Zimmerman, the nineteen year old lad who lies buried in the wayside cemetery west of North Salem, known as the Zimmerman graveyard. This Indian name was given to him in honor of an Indian chief who saved the life of John Zimmerman, the lad's father.
According to the story handed down, when John Zimmerman was a youth of sixteen, he [along] with another youth was captured by hostile Indians. They were kept for many months by the tribe and were well-treated. The boys were young daredevils who enjoyed all kinds of sports and never lost an opportunity to engage in battle with clubs, fists or any other weapons, so they furnished the Indians with much enjoyment.
Their utter disregard of danger and extreme courage aroused the admiration of the old chief, Te-fo-re-tan-ico [sic], who wished to adopt them. They refused to go into the tribe and the chief gave them their freedom at the risk of arousing the resentment of the tribe. In gratitude, Zimmerman promised to name his first male offspring for the Indian.
Later he married, left North Carolina, migrated to Indiana and secured a vast acreage. The original boundaries of his land extended from the present Frank Waters' farm south to the Mahoney hills. In rearing his family he remembered his promise and gave his son the Indian name. When the youth was nineteen he became ill and died from milk sickness, a disease quite prevalent in Indiana at that time. He was laid to rest on a hillside of his father's farm, and a simple monument bearing his epitaph marks his grave.
John Zimmerman was the great uncle of our local townsman, George Zimmerman, whose father came here to operate a distillery for his uncle. The still was located at the foot of the hill by the Zimmerman graveyard. Whiskey was sold at thirty cents a gallon and kept at the home to accommodate settlers.
The vast acreage secured by John Zimmerman was made possible by land selling as low as $1.25 per acre. One forty acre tract, now owned by Charles Clay, was sold for the consideration of one wagon and team of horses.
[NOTE: According to Plainfield library's Hendricks County cemeteries index, Taco Retanico Zimmerman (1824 - 1844) is buried at Zimmerman Cemetery, which is listed as being near County Road 675N and County Road 775W.]
Monday, December 6, 2010
College Students Database Updated
Entries from the 1948 school year have been added to the database Hendricks County Students Attending Indiana Colleges, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a listing of some of the students from Hendricks County who were either attending or graduating from various colleges in Indiana, as compiled from information sent by college officials to area newspapers. The list was comprised of the student's name, hometown and class, and sometimes included their major or the degree they were receiving.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1948 and 1954-1961.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1948 and 1954-1961.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: Couple Separated 19 Years To Divorce (1936)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, July 2, 1936 - page 2, column 5:
SEPARATED 19 YEARS
After being separated for nineteen years, Mrs. Margaret Miles filed suit in the local circuit court, Tuesday, for a divorce from her husband, John Miles. She claims that he struck her and was frequently intoxicated. According to the complaint, the Miles were married in 1915 and have not lived together since 1917. The plaintiff is a resident of Danville.
SEPARATED 19 YEARS
After being separated for nineteen years, Mrs. Margaret Miles filed suit in the local circuit court, Tuesday, for a divorce from her husband, John Miles. She claims that he struck her and was frequently intoxicated. According to the complaint, the Miles were married in 1915 and have not lived together since 1917. The plaintiff is a resident of Danville.
Friday, December 3, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: Burial Plot Mix-Up At North Salem Cemetery (1936)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 16, 1936 - page 1, column 2:
TWO GRAVES OPENED WHEN NUMBERS ARE DUPLICATED
Two cemetery lots, both being numbered ninety-eight caused no little confusion at the North Salem cemetery, Sunday, when Scott Plasters and A.E. Alexander dug a grave on the wrong lot.
Dr. Charles Trotter, who is secretary of the [Fairview] cemetery, received word of the death of Mrs. Scott Smith at Wilkinson, Ind. He found their lot number was ninety-eight and Plasters and Alexander dug the grave there.
When the funeral cortege arrived, a relative of the Smith family looked for a marker of a Miss Nora Smith who died in 1909. Not finding it, an investigation was made and they found two lots with the same number. The mistake was rectified to the satisfaction of the family.
The Smith family lived near New Winchester twenty-five years ago and had difficulty in making anyone remember them.
[NOTE: According to Plainfield library's Hendricks County cemeteries index, Mrs. Scott Smith may be Love Smith (1866-1936), and the Miss Nora Smith who died in 1909 may be Nora Bell Smith (1885-1909).]
TWO GRAVES OPENED WHEN NUMBERS ARE DUPLICATED
Two cemetery lots, both being numbered ninety-eight caused no little confusion at the North Salem cemetery, Sunday, when Scott Plasters and A.E. Alexander dug a grave on the wrong lot.
Dr. Charles Trotter, who is secretary of the [Fairview] cemetery, received word of the death of Mrs. Scott Smith at Wilkinson, Ind. He found their lot number was ninety-eight and Plasters and Alexander dug the grave there.
When the funeral cortege arrived, a relative of the Smith family looked for a marker of a Miss Nora Smith who died in 1909. Not finding it, an investigation was made and they found two lots with the same number. The mistake was rectified to the satisfaction of the family.
The Smith family lived near New Winchester twenty-five years ago and had difficulty in making anyone remember them.
[NOTE: According to Plainfield library's Hendricks County cemeteries index, Mrs. Scott Smith may be Love Smith (1866-1936), and the Miss Nora Smith who died in 1909 may be Nora Bell Smith (1885-1909).]
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: Wedding Ring Found in Clayton 18 Years Later (1936)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, June 4, 1936 - page 1, column 5:
WEDDING RING LOST 18 YEARS FOUND IN GARDEN
Mrs. Henry Rodenbeck of Clayton, reports the finding of her wedding ring which she lost about eighteen years ago. She lost the ring from her finger while attending to her household duties during the fall of 1917. A complete search was made of the house and premises but it could not be found.
The house where she resided at that time has [since] been moved and the ground has been ploughed and planted in potatoes.
Monday, while Mr. Rodenbeck was planting some watermelon seeds in the hills where the potatoes did not come up, he noticed the ring on the ploughed ground. The ring is in 18k gold, and engraved inside were the initials H.R. to G.C. and [it] is in perfect condition.
WEDDING RING LOST 18 YEARS FOUND IN GARDEN
Mrs. Henry Rodenbeck of Clayton, reports the finding of her wedding ring which she lost about eighteen years ago. She lost the ring from her finger while attending to her household duties during the fall of 1917. A complete search was made of the house and premises but it could not be found.
The house where she resided at that time has [since] been moved and the ground has been ploughed and planted in potatoes.
Monday, while Mr. Rodenbeck was planting some watermelon seeds in the hills where the potatoes did not come up, he noticed the ring on the ploughed ground. The ring is in 18k gold, and engraved inside were the initials H.R. to G.C. and [it] is in perfect condition.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Clayton Students & Teachers Databases Added
A list of Clayton High School's students in 1920, as well as a list of its teachers in 1920, have been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. Both lists were compiled from the school's 1920 yearbook, Claytonian.
Friday, November 26, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: Tombstone Error in Danville East Cemetery (1936)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, June 4, 1936 - page 8, column 2:
WE ALL MAKE 'EM
While attending the Memorial [Day] services at the [Danville] East cemetery, Sunday afternoon, our attention was called to an old grave stone that bore a strange legend. The inscription read "Lutitia Melogue, born June 7, 1827; died July 29, 1818." Thus she died nine years before she was born. Later, someone had taken a nail and tried to make a 4 out of the 1, to make the date of her death read 1848, but without much success.
WE ALL MAKE 'EM
While attending the Memorial [Day] services at the [Danville] East cemetery, Sunday afternoon, our attention was called to an old grave stone that bore a strange legend. The inscription read "Lutitia Melogue, born June 7, 1827; died July 29, 1818." Thus she died nine years before she was born. Later, someone had taken a nail and tried to make a 4 out of the 1, to make the date of her death read 1848, but without much success.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: Couple Marries In Sheriff's Office (1925)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, August 20, 1925 - page 1, column 5:
SENTENCED IN SHERIFF’S OFFICE
After getting their marriage license from Clerk Woodward, Monday, Wallace L. Jarrett, of Jamestown, and Ethie A. Stewart, of North Salem, didn’t know where to go to use the license. When F.M. Sageser arrived to tie the knot, they were waiting in the sheriff’s office, and after a little discussion, the ceremony was performed there.
SENTENCED IN SHERIFF’S OFFICE
After getting their marriage license from Clerk Woodward, Monday, Wallace L. Jarrett, of Jamestown, and Ethie A. Stewart, of North Salem, didn’t know where to go to use the license. When F.M. Sageser arrived to tie the knot, they were waiting in the sheriff’s office, and after a little discussion, the ceremony was performed there.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Marriage Index Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Marriage Book Volume 31 (1 November 1968 - 2 February 1970) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Marriage Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the names of the bride and groom, their date of marriage and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1904-1970, as well as 1824-1848.
Friday, November 19, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: Severed Hand Buried In Lizton Cemetery (1935)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 14, 1935 - page 1, column 4:
LOSES RIGHT HAND
Word has been received here that Oscar Eugene Holman, age 19, recently suffered the loss of his right hand when it was severed in machinery while at work in an automobile tire plant at Akron, Ohio. The hand was buried in the cemetery at Lizton. Young Holman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer Holman and the family formerly lived here. The father was a meat cutter here for a number of years and the family often visits Mr. and Mrs. John Graham of this place.
LOSES RIGHT HAND
Word has been received here that Oscar Eugene Holman, age 19, recently suffered the loss of his right hand when it was severed in machinery while at work in an automobile tire plant at Akron, Ohio. The hand was buried in the cemetery at Lizton. Young Holman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer Holman and the family formerly lived here. The father was a meat cutter here for a number of years and the family often visits Mr. and Mrs. John Graham of this place.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Surname Index To Probate Order Books Updated
Entries from the surname index included at the front of Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 11 (13 June 1882 - 10 June 1884) have been added to the database Surname Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The surname index was compiled by the clerk at the time they were writing the entries. It includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.), and the corresponding book and page number.
Friday, November 12, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: First Women in County As Petit Jurors (1937)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 28, 1937 - page 1, column 3:
TWO WOMEN SERVE ON DAMAGE SUIT JURY
First in History of the Hendricks Circuit Court
For the first time in the history of Hendricks County women have served on the jury. Two women who made Hendricks County history were Mrs. Walter E. Hadley of Plainfield and Mrs. Abigail Durham of North Salem. Both were impaneled on the jury last Thursday for the trial of A.E. Lowe vs. Steward Pritchett and Jewell Pritchett. The trial was on a damage suit arising from an automobile wreck north of Danville. Lowe was awarded $300 damages.
Only one other time has a woman's name been drawn for jury duty and this was due to a mistake as Clerk Walter E. Hadley thought that Leo Halfaker of Middle township was a masculine name. Mrs. Halfaker came to Danville to see why she had been chosen for jury duty and the mistake was found. Mrs. Halfaker was excused. However, Mrs. Hadley and Mrs. Durham seem to enjoy the fact that they were the first women to serve on a Hendricks County jury.
TWO WOMEN SERVE ON DAMAGE SUIT JURY
First in History of the Hendricks Circuit Court
For the first time in the history of Hendricks County women have served on the jury. Two women who made Hendricks County history were Mrs. Walter E. Hadley of Plainfield and Mrs. Abigail Durham of North Salem. Both were impaneled on the jury last Thursday for the trial of A.E. Lowe vs. Steward Pritchett and Jewell Pritchett. The trial was on a damage suit arising from an automobile wreck north of Danville. Lowe was awarded $300 damages.
Only one other time has a woman's name been drawn for jury duty and this was due to a mistake as Clerk Walter E. Hadley thought that Leo Halfaker of Middle township was a masculine name. Mrs. Halfaker came to Danville to see why she had been chosen for jury duty and the mistake was found. Mrs. Halfaker was excused. However, Mrs. Hadley and Mrs. Durham seem to enjoy the fact that they were the first women to serve on a Hendricks County jury.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Avon Students & Teachers Databases Added
A listing of Avon High School's students (grades 7-12) in 1945, as well as its teachers in 1945, have been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. Both lists were compiled from the school's 1945 yearbook.
Friday, November 5, 2010
NEWSPAPER TIDBIT: First Woman in County As Grand Juror (1938)
An item found in The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 3, 1938 - page 1, column 5:
IT'LL JUST BE TOO BAD
Now, you men, watch your step. This county is going to be different. Some things may be brought to light that men have always overlooked. We are tellin' you, this is a serious proposition. Three women have been named for service on the grand jury for the March term of court. Women have been named on petit juries in this county before, but as far as we know, these are the first to be named on the grand jury. The three women named are Mrs. Beulah Mitchell and Mrs. Mabel C. Thompson, both of Center Township, and Mrs. Ruth B. Wilson, Guilford Township. The complete list of jurymen can be found in another column of this issue.
IT'LL JUST BE TOO BAD
Now, you men, watch your step. This county is going to be different. Some things may be brought to light that men have always overlooked. We are tellin' you, this is a serious proposition. Three women have been named for service on the grand jury for the March term of court. Women have been named on petit juries in this county before, but as far as we know, these are the first to be named on the grand jury. The three women named are Mrs. Beulah Mitchell and Mrs. Mabel C. Thompson, both of Center Township, and Mrs. Ruth B. Wilson, Guilford Township. The complete list of jurymen can be found in another column of this issue.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Probate Records - Samples
The Indiana Genealogical Society has a photo album on Facebook showing examples of some of the records they've found while working on the Hendricks County probate records. You do not have to be a Facebook member to view the photo album.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Teachers Database Updated
Entries from the 1948 school year have been added to the database Index to Teachers in Hendricks County Schools, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a list of all of the teachers in the county's schools, as published in area newspapers at the beginning of each school year by the county's schools superintendent. The list was comprised of the teacher's name and their location, and sometimes included the subjects they were teaching.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1948-1963.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1948-1963.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Marriage Index Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Marriage Book Volume 30 (5 August 1967 - 30 October 1968) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Marriage Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the names of the bride and groom, their date of marriage and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1904-1968, as well as 1824-1848.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Surname Index to Probate Order Books Added
Entries from the surname index included at the front of Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 10 (27 September 1880 - 13 June 1882) have been added to the database Surname Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The surname index was compiled by the clerk at the time they were writing the entries. It includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.), and the corresponding book and page number.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Probate Order Books Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 16 (4 May 1891 - 10 November 1892) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.), the case number (if given) and the corresponding book and page number.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844, 1891-1892 and 1894-1918.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844, 1891-1892 and 1894-1918.
Monday, October 4, 2010
College Students Database Updated
Entries from the 1947 school year have been added to the database Hendricks County Students Attending Indiana Colleges, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a listing of some of the students from Hendricks County who were either attending or graduating from various colleges in Indiana, as compiled from information sent by college officials to area newspapers. The list was comprised of the student's name, hometown and class, and sometimes included their major or the degree they were receiving.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1947 and 1954-1961.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1947 and 1954-1961.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Marriage Index Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Marriage Book Volume 29 (21 February 1966 - 5 August 1967) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Marriage Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the names of the bride and groom, their date of marriage and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1904-1967, as well as 1824-1848.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Teachers Database Updated
Entries from the 1949 school year have been added to the database Index to Teachers in Hendricks County Schools, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a list of all of the teachers in the county's schools, as published in area newspapers at the beginning of each school year by the county's schools superintendent. The list was comprised of the teacher's name and their location, and sometimes included the subjects they were teaching.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1949-1963.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1949-1963.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Hendricks County Community Foundation Awards Grant For Probate Records Project
The Hendricks County Community Foundation has been working to improve the quality of life in our community since 1996. It manages a $7 million collection of funds that are created by individuals, families, businesses and organizations for charitable purposes. In 2009, the Hendricks County Community Foundation awarded over $320,000 in grants to local organizations and causes and scholarships to local students.
Monday, September 13, 2010
College Students Database Updated
Entries from the 1954 school year have been added to the database Hendricks County Students Attending Indiana Colleges, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a listing of some of the students from Hendricks County who were either attending or graduating from various colleges in Indiana, as compiled from information sent by college officials to area newspapers. The list was comprised of the student's name, hometown and class, and sometimes included their major or the degree they were receiving.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1946 and 1954-1961.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1946 and 1954-1961.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Center Township Delinquent Tax List 1875
This 1876 newspaper clipping is a listing of landowners in Center Township, Hendricks County, Indiana who did not pay their property taxes in 1875. It was found in Hendricks County probate packets. [Click on the photo to enlarge]
Monday, September 6, 2010
Probate Order Books Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 18 (7 May 1894 - 24 December 1895) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.), the case number (if given) and the corresponding book and page number.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1894-1918.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1894-1918.
Monday, August 30, 2010
College Students Database Updated
Entries from the 1946 school year have been added to the database Hendricks County Students Attending Indiana Colleges, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a listing of some of the students from Hendricks County who were either attending or graduating from various colleges in Indiana, as compiled from information sent by college officials to area newspapers. The list was comprised of the student's name, hometown and class, and sometimes included their major or the degree they were receiving.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1946 and 1955-1961.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1946 and 1955-1961.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Probate Records Database Updated
The Indiana Genealogical Society has updated their database of Hendricks County probate records (1824-1930). The database is part of their project to preserve and digitize a collection of Hendricks County probate packets; there are 215 digital files online so far.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Plainfield Library To Host Genealogy After-Hours
The Local History/Genealogy Department of the Plainfield Public Library will hold a "Genealogy After Hours" on Friday, September 17 from 6:30 to 9 pm. You'll be able to use the library's resources (including access to genealogy databases), consult with genealogy staff, and meet fellow researchers.
Registration is required--register online or phone (317) 838-3800.
Registration is required--register online or phone (317) 838-3800.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Teachers Database Updated
Entries from the 1950 school year have been added to the database Index to Teachers in Hendricks County Schools, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a list of all of the teachers in the county's schools, as published in area newspapers at the beginning of each school year by the county's schools superintendent. The list was comprised of the teacher's name and their location, and sometimes included the subjects they were teaching.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1950-1963.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1950-1963.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
LOOKUPS: Hendricks County Churches Book
Gail Tharp has compiled a book, Churches of the Past, which includes information on over 2,3000 ministers and other people associated with some 530 former churches in Boone County, Hendricks County, Marion County, Montgomery County, Morgan County, Parke County and Putnanm County. She is willing to do lookups from the book - please contact her at Drgmtharp@aol.com
Monday, August 16, 2010
Central Normal College Database Added
A database of graduates of Central Normal College in Danville for 1935 to 1946 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This database was compiled from lists of the graduates that were published annually in Danville newspapers. These lists sometimes included the students' hometowns and what degrees they were receiving.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
FOR SALE: 1830 & 1840 Census Records Book
S-K Publications is having an inventory sale for their 1 remaining book copy of the 1830 and 1840 Hendricks County censuses. The spiral-bound book normally sells for $25, but will go for $5 (including shipping) to the first person who orders it. Visa/Mastercard orders can be accepted at https://ssl5.pair.com/jschunk/genie/CensusOrder.html, or contact John Schunk (john@SKcensus.com) for more information.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Marriage Index Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Marriage Book Volume 28 (11 July 1964 - 21 February 1966) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Marriage Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the names of the bride and groom, their date of marriage and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1904-1966, as well as 1824-1848.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Probate Order Books Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 19 (6 January 1896 - 30 January 1897) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.), the case number (if given) and the corresponding book and page number.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1896-1918.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1896-1918.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Photo: Lizton High School Class of 1932
Clara Baire, Loleta Clifton, Harold Crodian, Mary Eloise Ginn, Mary Elizabeth Hendricks, Barbara Leach, June Leak, Mary Mahan, Zola Montgomery, Woodrow Ogden, Herrin Phelps, Glendon Reeves, Edwin Scott and Emert Smith.
(Also pictured: class sponsor Helen H. Davis)
Monday, July 26, 2010
Danville Library Hosts Research Trip To Fort Wayne
The Danville Public Library's Indiana Room is organizing a research trip to the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne. The trip will be September 16-17, with an orientation session to be held at the Danville library on Saturday, August 28 at 10 am. The orientation session is recommended, as Indiana Room Manager Cindy Rutledge will discuss what genealogy materials are available at ACPL and what you should do to prepare to research there.
Pre-registration for the research trip is required. For more information, contact the Indiana Room - e-mail dplind@dpl.lib.in.us or phone (317) 718-8008 ext. 14.
Pre-registration for the research trip is required. For more information, contact the Indiana Room - e-mail dplind@dpl.lib.in.us or phone (317) 718-8008 ext. 14.
Rural Residents Database Added
Directory of Rural Residents of Hendricks County, Indiana (1918) has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is an index of the entries from Hendricks County Rural Route Directory November 1918. The index includes their name, post office, rural route, and the number of acres they were farming.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Teachers Database Updated
Entries from the 1951 school year have been added to the database Index to Teachers in Hendricks County Schools, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a list of all of the teachers in the county's schools, as published in area newspapers at the beginning of each school year by the county's schools superintendent. The list was comprised of the teacher's name and their location, and sometimes included the subjects they were teaching.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1951-1963.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1951-1963.
Monday, July 12, 2010
College Students Database Updated
Entries from the 1961 school year have been added to the database Hendricks County Students Attending Indiana Colleges, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a listing of some of the students from Hendricks County who were either attending or graduating from various colleges in Indiana, as compiled from information sent by college officials to area newspapers. The list was comprised of the student's name, hometown and class, and sometimes included their major or the degree they were receiving.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1945 and 1955-1961.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1945 and 1955-1961.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Historic House in Guilford Township Gutted By Fire
(photo from Indiana Landmarks website - see http://www.historiclandmarks.org/ForSale/Pages/ForSaleDetails.aspx?ForSaleID=90)
The Horace Reeve House on Orly Drive in southeastern Guilford Township (north of Friendswood, near the Hendricks County - Marion County line) was gutted by a fire (suspected to be arson) at about 3 am on the morning of July 5 (see news story). The homestead was built in 1853 by Horace Reeve's father, Charles Reeve. It was purchased by the Indianapolis Airport and had long been vacant. The Indiana Landmarks organization had it listed for sale for $1.
Horace Reeve (born November 7, 1853; died March 20, 1934) was married to Flora E. Allen and Olma Hadley. His parents, Charles Reeve (born 1816; died 1897) and Melinda Jessup, came from Cumberland County, New Jersey and settled in the area in November 1839. Charles Reeve was a teacher and farmer and the family was Quaker. Horace Reeve was known for his dairy business, and the 1914 edition of the History of Hendricks County noted: "The family residence is one of the most charming homes in the community, being substantially built of brick and surrounded by a spacious and well-kept lawn and beautiful forest trees."
Probate Order Books Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 20 (1 March 1897 - 5 February 1898) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.), the case number (if given) and the corresponding book and page number.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1897-1918.
It is an ongoing project--currently it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1897-1918.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Help Needed: Malta School
If you have any information about where in the county the Malta School was located, or if you can identify any of the students in this photo, please contact them.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Hendricks County Historian Appointed
Parsons is well known to local history researchers for his efforts to digitize the county's records, which began when he was the systems administrator for the county (he retired last year). In the words of his wife Phyllis, "he enjoys most old things," and really knows the history of Hendricks County, including the early settlers, as well as old roads and towns that no longer exist.
He has also been a minister at the Belleville Bible Church (formerly Salem Methodist Church) for the past 37 years. He and Phyllis (who is well-known in her own right for her work with the Hendricks County Museum) have been married for 50 years. They have 5 children and 15 grandchildren (with another on the way).
John Parsons' contact information is available here.
Monday, June 28, 2010
High School Graduates Database Added
The database Graduates of Hendricks County High Schools (1904-1907) has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a list of all of the graduates of the county's high schools for the years 1904-1907, as published in Hendricks County Schools 1906 - 1907- 1908, a manual written by G.M. Wilson, the county's superintendent of schools.
The high schools included in this list are: Amo, Avon, Brownsburg, Clayton, Lizton, North Salem, Pittsboro, Plainfield and Stilesville.
The high schools included in this list are: Amo, Avon, Brownsburg, Clayton, Lizton, North Salem, Pittsboro, Plainfield and Stilesville.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
RESEARCH TIP: Digital Books
A reader recently reminded me of one of the most promising avenues for genealogy researchers - the digitizing of books and putting them online, often with no cost to access. Two of the best-funded of these digitization efforts are Google Books and the Texts section of Internet Archive.
Both of these projects are focusing a lot of their attention on older books, which are not as likely to be subject to any copyright issues. For genealogy researchers, that means they are digitizing of a lot of the county histories, directories and official government reports that can contain nuggets of information about our ancestors and the communities they lived in. Some of these books have even had OCR (Optical Character Recognition) done during the digitizing process, so that you can easily search the pages for a particular word or name.
Libraries around the globe are participating in these digitizing efforts, including the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne. Among the items of interest to Hendricks County researchers are copies of the 1885, 1895 and 1914 histories of the county, as well as the 1904 atlas.
Internet Archive also is adding copies of the censuses - the 1860, 1870, 1900, 1910 and 1930 Hendricks County population schedules are among the Indiana items I found in their collection. You have to browse through these censuses - OCR could not be done on them to make them searchable - but it's free!
Both of these projects are focusing a lot of their attention on older books, which are not as likely to be subject to any copyright issues. For genealogy researchers, that means they are digitizing of a lot of the county histories, directories and official government reports that can contain nuggets of information about our ancestors and the communities they lived in. Some of these books have even had OCR (Optical Character Recognition) done during the digitizing process, so that you can easily search the pages for a particular word or name.
Libraries around the globe are participating in these digitizing efforts, including the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne. Among the items of interest to Hendricks County researchers are copies of the 1885, 1895 and 1914 histories of the county, as well as the 1904 atlas.
Internet Archive also is adding copies of the censuses - the 1860, 1870, 1900, 1910 and 1930 Hendricks County population schedules are among the Indiana items I found in their collection. You have to browse through these censuses - OCR could not be done on them to make them searchable - but it's free!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Teachers Database Updated
Entries from the 1952 school year have been added to the database Index to Teachers in Hendricks County Schools, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a list of all of the teachers in the county's schools, as published in area newspapers at the beginning of each school year by the county's schools superintendent. The list was comprised of the teacher's name and their location, and sometimes included the subjects they were teaching.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1952-1963.
The database is in progress--it currently covers 1952-1963.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
RESEARCH TIP: Crawfordsville Library
When searching for your Hendricks County ancestors, don't forget to check the records of neighboring counties. One online resource that shouldn't be overlooked is the Crawfordsville District Public Library. Their Local History section has various Montgomery County databases, many of which also contain digitized records. Especially helpful are their database of the county's marriage licenses (which goes up to 2001) and their databases of vital events (births, marriages & deaths) that are mentioned in area newspapers.
Crawfordsville, located along Interstate 74, was often a destination for Hendricks County residents - particularly those from the northwestern part of the county. Its newspapers frequently published news items from Hendricks County, including obituaries which may not be found elsewhere.
Crawfordsville, located along Interstate 74, was often a destination for Hendricks County residents - particularly those from the northwestern part of the county. Its newspapers frequently published news items from Hendricks County, including obituaries which may not be found elsewhere.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Database of 1878 Atlas Added
A database of the biographical entries from Atlas of Hendricks County, Indiana (1878) has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The database includes the subject's name, township and a transcription of their biographical entry.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
RESEARCH TIP: Marriage Records
Under Indiana law, counties were required beginning in 1818 to keep a record of their marriages (with some keeping records even before then). Hendricks County was officially formed in 1824, so its marriage records exist from 1824 onward.
In the beginning, marriage records did not contain much information that we as researchers find helpful - just the name of the bride and groom, the date of the marriage, and the name of the person who performed that marriage. The earliest marriage books contained only handwritten entries (pictured: an example from 1839).
By the 1850's, the county began using books that had pre-printed forms (pictured: an example from 1852), which helped standardize the presentation of the information.
In the 1860's and 1870's, in addition to the marriage books, there was the (scattered) usage of marriage affidavit books, which sometimes listed the name of a parent or the age of the bride or groom (if they were under 18). Pictured: an example from 1871.
Handwritten notes were sometimes attached to the marriage affidavit form. Pictured: an 1871 note signed by Thomas C. Sheets stating that he gives permission for his daughter Josephine Sheets to marry.
In 1882, the use of marriage affidavit books was replaced by marriage supplement books. They contained numerous columns of additional information on the bride and groom, including how many previous marriages, their occupation, their birthplace, their residence, their age, the names of their parents and where the marriage took place.
In May 1905, a change in Indiana law took effect, which included the use of marriage application books in addition to the marriage license books. These applications had to be filled out for both the bride and groom, and asked several questions of them, including their parents' residences and birthplaces. Pictured: an example of a marriage application from 1914.
In May 1950, Indiana law consolidated the marriage application and marriage license books into one book. Pictured: an example from 1953.
In 1958 a new set of marriage books was used. The application portion of the marriage record now asked for some proof of the bride or groom's birthdate and proof of medical examination (blood test). Pictured: an example from 1958, where both the bride and groom's birthdates were verified by birth certificates.
The couple would receive the completed marriage license after the marriage had been performed. This document often included information that was not listed in the marriage license books - such as the names of the witnesses and where the marriage took place.
Usually you will only find these papers if they were handed down through the family. However, the Plainfield library has a collection of marriage licenses, which were found in the Hendricks County courthouse. The Indiana Room section of their website has an index in progress (pictured).
In the 1930's, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) indexed Hendricks County's marriage license books for 1824 through 1920. That WPA marriage index (pictured) consisted of the name of the bride, the name of the groom, the date of the marriage, and the corresonding book and page number. The WPA marriage index has been converted into a searchable database, available in the Data section of the Hendricks County GenWeb site. NOTE: There are some flaws in the WPA marriage index - it does not include any entries from Book 1 1/2 (which covered 1831-1837), and errors have been found in the names and book and page numbers.
The WPA also did an index of Hendricks County's marriage supplements books for 1882 through 1920. That WPA marriage supplements index (pictured) consisted of the name of the bride or groom, their father's name, their mother's maiden name, their age as of their next birthday, the date of the marriage, and the corresonding book and page number. The WPA marriage supplements index has been converted into a searchable database, available in the Data section of the Hendricks County GenWeb site.
The Hendricks County Clerk's office has Hendricks County's marriage records. They are on the 2nd floor of the Hendricks County courthouse in Danville.
Hendricks County's marriage license books for 1824-1950, marriage affidavits for 1866-1879, marriage supplements for 1885-1906, and marriage applications for May 1905-1947 have been microfilmed. That microfilm is available at the Family History Library and the Indiana State Library. The Plainfield library also has some (but not all) of this microfilm collection - their marriage license books microfilm covers 1824-1925 and their marriage applications microfilm covers May 1905 - January 1922.
The Archives on the Hendricks County Government website includes digital files of the Hendricks County marriage license books for 1824-2003.
The Hendricks County GenWeb site has an index to the Hendricks County marriage license books in their Data section. This searchable index (pictured) includes the names of the bride and groom, their date of marriage and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far it covers 1824-1848 and 1904-1964.
The WPA also did an index of Hendricks County's marriage supplements books for 1882 through 1920. That WPA marriage supplements index (pictured) consisted of the name of the bride or groom, their father's name, their mother's maiden name, their age as of their next birthday, the date of the marriage, and the corresonding book and page number. The WPA marriage supplements index has been converted into a searchable database, available in the Data section of the Hendricks County GenWeb site.
Hendricks County's marriage license books for 1824-1950, marriage affidavits for 1866-1879, marriage supplements for 1885-1906, and marriage applications for May 1905-1947 have been microfilmed. That microfilm is available at the Family History Library and the Indiana State Library. The Plainfield library also has some (but not all) of this microfilm collection - their marriage license books microfilm covers 1824-1925 and their marriage applications microfilm covers May 1905 - January 1922.
The Archives on the Hendricks County Government website includes digital files of the Hendricks County marriage license books for 1824-2003.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Probate Order Books Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 21 (7 March 1898 - 20 April 1899) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.) and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1898-1918.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
College Students Database Updated
Entries from the 1955 school year have been added to the database Hendricks County Students Attending Indiana Colleges, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a listing of some of the students from Hendricks County who were either attending or graduating from various colleges in Indiana, as compiled from information sent by college officials to area newspapers. The list was comprised of the student's name, hometown and class, and sometimes included their major or the degree they were receiving.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1945 and 1955-1960.
The colleges that submitted information to the newspapers varied from year to year. Ball State University, Butler University, DePauw University, Earlham College, Indiana State University, Indiana University and Purdue University are among those who submitted information.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1944-1945 and 1955-1960.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
RESEARCH TIP: Probate Records - Estates
[NOTE: For more general information about probate records, please see earlier post]
Estates are the most common kind of case in probate records. Estate cases deal with the aftermath of someone's death--the paying off of any debts they had and then the distribution of any assets that are left over.
An estate case usually started with someone stating to the probate court that the person had died; thus, estates are a great way for researchers to verify someone's death, particularly when dealing with the period before death records were kept in Indiana. Pictured: an affidavit stating that someone had died in 1855 (bonus information: the person making the affidavit even states what their relationship was to the deceased).
Sometimes the person had written a will before they died, declaring how they wanted their real estate and personal assets to be distributed and often naming someone to take care of the distribution. This person is known as the executor (male) or executrix (female). Even if there was a will, those cases still had to go through probate court--their will would be entered as part of the probate record and if no one contested the will's validity, the executor/executrix would start the distribution of assets and make a report to the court of the final settlement.
If the person did not write a will before they died, someone would have to petition the court to be appointed as the administrator (male) or administratrix (female) of their estate. They had to swear an oath to the court to perform their legal obligations, and take out a bond for double the amount of the estate's estimated worth (so if the estate was valued at $500, the bond would be for $1000). At least one other person had to be the "surety" on the bond, assuming legally responsibility for paying that money if the administrator/administratrix was found to be derelict in their legal duties. The administrator was then granted Letters of Application. [Note: Sometimes in an estate case you may see a reference to an administrator "de bonis non"--this is someone who has taken over as administrator due to the death, resignation, etc. of the previous administrator].
An inventory was taken of all of the deceased's personal property, as well as any real estate that they owned. The Inventory included an estimate of the value of each item and can also give you some clues about their profession (for example, ladders and paintbrushes for someone who was a house painter). The administrator would then arrange a public sale, and present a Sale Bill to the court, showing how much each item had sold for and who had bought it (often neighbors and relatives bought the items). The widow had the right to take 1/3 of her husband's assets and the Sale Bill would reflect which of the items had been taken by the widow. Pictured: an inventory from 1870.
Indiana law established a minimum value that an estate had to be in order to go through the probate process. For example, in 1866 it was $300; by the 1870's, it was $500. If the value of that estate was below that minimum, the widow could receive all the assets directly. When someone petitioned to have this law applied to an estate, an appraisal of all the deceased's real estate and personal property was taken, to verify the value. Pictured: a widow's application from 1879.
In a time when people rarely had ready access to cash, IOUs were a common form of currency, and thus are often found in estate cases, as all the people that the deceased owed money to submitted their claims for payment to the probate court. Conversely, any IOUs the deceased had in their possession from other people are also part of the estate. Pictured: an IOU from 1832, where the deceased had promised to pay $30 at 12.5% interest.
A bill from a doctor for their care during the last sickness can also be found in the estate case. The dates of their visits and the medicines they prescribed can give you an insight into their patient's health. Pictured: a doctor's bill from 1828 [NOTE: the patient has "Dr" after their name; this is not an indication of a medical profession, but of them being the Debtor--the person who owes money].
A bill for the purchase of a tombstone (usually months or even years after the death) is also a common part of the estate case. Sometimes the bill would include the details of the inscription to be added - a wonderful detail particularly since that tombstone may not be legible or even still exist today. Pictured: a bill for a tombstone purchase in 1859, complete with the sad verse to be added (at 2 cents extra per letter).
If the deceased own land, it would go through partition--a legal term for the equitable division of the land among the heirs. Inheritance laws, not the court, determined who was considered an heir. Pictured: an entry from an 1897 probate order book showing how a parcel of land had been partitioned.
If the land could not be divided, or if there was not enough cash on hand to pay all the debts, the administrator could petition the court to sell the land. If that still wasn't enough to pay all the debts, the court would label the estate as "insolvent" and pay each of the creditors a fraction of what they were owed.
If there was something left over after all the debts had been paid, the administrator would distribute the remaining assets among the deceased's heirs before making a final report to the court and being discharged from their duties.
Some estate cases took years to settle, leaving behind a large paper trail. Volunteers who are working on the Indiana Genealogical Society's project for Hendricks County probate records have already discovered an estate case that began in 1872 and did not end until 1897.
Estates are the most common kind of case in probate records. Estate cases deal with the aftermath of someone's death--the paying off of any debts they had and then the distribution of any assets that are left over.
Sometimes the person had written a will before they died, declaring how they wanted their real estate and personal assets to be distributed and often naming someone to take care of the distribution. This person is known as the executor (male) or executrix (female). Even if there was a will, those cases still had to go through probate court--their will would be entered as part of the probate record and if no one contested the will's validity, the executor/executrix would start the distribution of assets and make a report to the court of the final settlement.
If the person did not write a will before they died, someone would have to petition the court to be appointed as the administrator (male) or administratrix (female) of their estate. They had to swear an oath to the court to perform their legal obligations, and take out a bond for double the amount of the estate's estimated worth (so if the estate was valued at $500, the bond would be for $1000). At least one other person had to be the "surety" on the bond, assuming legally responsibility for paying that money if the administrator/administratrix was found to be derelict in their legal duties. The administrator was then granted Letters of Application. [Note: Sometimes in an estate case you may see a reference to an administrator "de bonis non"--this is someone who has taken over as administrator due to the death, resignation, etc. of the previous administrator].
If the land could not be divided, or if there was not enough cash on hand to pay all the debts, the administrator could petition the court to sell the land. If that still wasn't enough to pay all the debts, the court would label the estate as "insolvent" and pay each of the creditors a fraction of what they were owed.
If there was something left over after all the debts had been paid, the administrator would distribute the remaining assets among the deceased's heirs before making a final report to the court and being discharged from their duties.
Some estate cases took years to settle, leaving behind a large paper trail. Volunteers who are working on the Indiana Genealogical Society's project for Hendricks County probate records have already discovered an estate case that began in 1872 and did not end until 1897.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Probate Order Books Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Probate Order Book Volume 22 (21 April 1899 - 20 April 1900) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the subject of the probate case, the type of case (estate, guardianship, etc.) and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far it covers the years 1825-1844 and 1899-1918.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
RESEARCH TIP: Probate Records
When Indiana formally became a state in 1816, it did so with a circuit court in each county. That court had jurisdiction for probate cases. Then in 1829, state law provided for the creation of a probate court in each county, separate from the circuit court. These probate courts remained in existence until 1853, when Indiana law replaced them with a Court of Common Pleas in each county. This court was responsible for hearing probate cases, but could also handle divorces, naturalizations, and criminal cases for small infractions.
Courts of Common Pleas existed in Indiana until 1873, and were then abolished. In most counties, the responsiblity for probate cases then reverted back to the circuit courts, where it is unchanged to this day. However, Marion County (Indianapolis), Vanderburgh County (Evansville) and St. Joseph County (South Bend) have established their own probate courts over the years to help with the caseloads.
The most common types of probate cases are estates and guardianships. Estates are about someone who has died (or been declared dead)--the payment of any debts they had and then the distribution of any remaining assets among their legal heirs. Guardianships are often about minors (children under the age of 21) who are legal heirs to an estate, but they can also be about adults, especially if the person has been found to be of an "unsound mind" or "insane," thus legally incapable of managing their own affairs. Like other kinds of court records, probate records are a great way for researchers to prove relationships between people, especially female ancestors who may otherwise be "missing" from records.
There are different kinds of probate records:
Probate Order Books contain a brief summary written by the court clerk of what happened each time the probate case came to court. Entries in the order books are in chronological order by the court term (with some probate cases continuing for several terms). Pictured: a 1903 entry from a probate order book.
Complete Probate Books contain a summary of the probate case from beginning to end, as written by the court clerk. This summary was made only after the case was finished and was done for an additional court fee.
Probate Packets—also known as “loose papers,” they contain the original documents that were submitted to the court during the probate case—IOUs, receipts, affidavits, newspaper notices, etc. Pictured: a probate packet from 1844.
The Hendricks County Clerk's office has a Microfilm Department, located on the ground floor of the Hendricks County courthouse in Danville (next door to the Self-Service Legal Center--take the west entrance to the courthouse and then turn left). It has microfiche of Hendricks County court records (including probate packets) from the 1900's.
The Microfilm Department has an index to the microfiche on a card file, which they will search for you. NOTE: After the court records were put on microfiche, the papers were destroyed. Unfortunately, the images on the microfiche are not always clear. Pictured: an administrator's application from a 1924 estate case.
Hendricks County's probate packets for 1824 through the early 1900's are kept in the basement of the Hendricks County courthouse. The Indiana Genealogical Society has a project where volunteers are unfolding and organizing these papers, then digitizing them so they can eventually be put online as a free database for the public. The project is in progress--currently there are digital files for about 100 cases.
Hendricks County's Probate Order Books for 1825-1918 and Complete Probate Books for 1826-1905 have been microfilmed. That microfilm is available at the Family History Library, the Indiana State Library and also at the Plainfield library.
NOTE: Hendricks County's probate order books were numbered beginning with volume 1 in 1825, but when the Court of Common Pleas was created in 1853, that numbering started over again. So it's important to know not only the volume number, but what time period it referred to. For example, volume 1 covers 1825 to 1835, and volume 2 covers 1835 to 1839, but then there is the volume 1 that covers 1853 to 1856, the volume 2 that covers 1856 to 1860, etc.
The Archives on the Hendricks County Government website includes digital files of the probate order books for 1825-1847 and a partial file of the order book for 1850-1852. They are in the Judicial Archive section. Pictured: a page from an order book for 1839.
Many of the probate order books have an index at the front (see example). These indexes are separated by the letter of the last name but are not alphabetical--entries were made in the index at the time that the case went to court, so you may need to browse through all the entries under that letter in order to find the case you need.
The Hendricks County GenWeb site has a searchable Index to Hendricks County Probate Order Books. The index is in progress; it currently covers the volumes for 1825-1844 and 1900-1918.
Courts of Common Pleas existed in Indiana until 1873, and were then abolished. In most counties, the responsiblity for probate cases then reverted back to the circuit courts, where it is unchanged to this day. However, Marion County (Indianapolis), Vanderburgh County (Evansville) and St. Joseph County (South Bend) have established their own probate courts over the years to help with the caseloads.
The most common types of probate cases are estates and guardianships. Estates are about someone who has died (or been declared dead)--the payment of any debts they had and then the distribution of any remaining assets among their legal heirs. Guardianships are often about minors (children under the age of 21) who are legal heirs to an estate, but they can also be about adults, especially if the person has been found to be of an "unsound mind" or "insane," thus legally incapable of managing their own affairs. Like other kinds of court records, probate records are a great way for researchers to prove relationships between people, especially female ancestors who may otherwise be "missing" from records.
There are different kinds of probate records:
Complete Probate Books contain a summary of the probate case from beginning to end, as written by the court clerk. This summary was made only after the case was finished and was done for an additional court fee.
Hendricks County's Probate Order Books for 1825-1918 and Complete Probate Books for 1826-1905 have been microfilmed. That microfilm is available at the Family History Library, the Indiana State Library and also at the Plainfield library.
NOTE: Hendricks County's probate order books were numbered beginning with volume 1 in 1825, but when the Court of Common Pleas was created in 1853, that numbering started over again. So it's important to know not only the volume number, but what time period it referred to. For example, volume 1 covers 1825 to 1835, and volume 2 covers 1835 to 1839, but then there is the volume 1 that covers 1853 to 1856, the volume 2 that covers 1856 to 1860, etc.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Teachers Database Updated
Entries from the 1953 school year have been added to the database Index to Teachers in Hendricks County Schools, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. It is a list of all of the teachers in the county's schools, as published in area newspapers at the beginning of each school year by the county's schools superintendent. The list was comprised of the teacher's name and their location, and sometimes included the subjects they were teaching.
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1953-1963. 1963-1964 was the end of the Hendricks County schools system and the position of Hendricks County schools superintendent. Beginning in 1962, schools began dropping out of the county system in order to form their own school corporations. When the 1963 school year began, only 3 schools were left in the county system--Lizton, North Salem and Pittsboro (they would later form the Tri-West school corporation).
The database is an ongoing project--so far it covers the period of 1953-1963. 1963-1964 was the end of the Hendricks County schools system and the position of Hendricks County schools superintendent. Beginning in 1962, schools began dropping out of the county system in order to form their own school corporations. When the 1963 school year began, only 3 schools were left in the county system--Lizton, North Salem and Pittsboro (they would later form the Tri-West school corporation).
Monday, May 17, 2010
Avon Library Adds Heritage Room
The Avon-Washington Township Public Library recently finished construction on their Huron Heritage Room. The room is open Mondays 2 to 4 pm, Wednesdays 5:30 to 7:30 pm, and by appointment. It will focus on the history of Avon and Washington Township. They will hold a dedication/open house on Saturday, June 12 from 1 to 3 pm. The public is welcome.
Materials that relate to Avon or Washington Township are welcome, as are volunteers. For more information, please contact Susan Truax--phone (317) 272-4818, ext. 250.
Materials that relate to Avon or Washington Township are welcome, as are volunteers. For more information, please contact Susan Truax--phone (317) 272-4818, ext. 250.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
RESEARCH TIP: Divorce Records
Divorce may have been more common than we realize. This headline from the November 18, 1909 issue of The Republican, a Danville newspaper, decried the prevalence of divorce. The article was about the results of a 5-year study done by the Census Bureau (at the behest of Congress) to report on the country's marriage rate.
Hendricks County was not immune to the divorce danger. Each year the county clerk issued a report of how many marriage licenses had been issued vs. how many divorce cases had been filed, and from that compiled a divorce rate. According to the January 4, 1912 issue of The Republican, 134 marriage licenses had been issued the previous year, and 27 divorce suits filed, for a divorce rate of over 20%. The newspaper called the figure "appalling" and blamed the law for allowing a boy to marry at 18 and a girl at 16 if they had their parents' consent--ages when they should just be finishing high school.
At some point, Hendricks County court records from the 1800's (including divorce records) were sent to the Indiana State Archives in Indianapolis. The Archives reportedly did not keep all of these records.
The Hendricks County Clerk's office has a Microfilm Department, located on the ground floor of the Hendricks County courthouse in Danville (next door to the Self-Service Legal Center--take the west entrance to the courthouse). It has Hendricks County court records (including divorce records) from the 1900's.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Marriage Records Database Updated
Entries from Hendricks County Marriage Book Volume 27 (27 August 1962 - 7 July 1964) have been added to the database Index to Hendricks County Marriage Books, which is on the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index includes the names of the bride and groom, their date of marriage and the corresponding book and page number. It is an ongoing project--so far there are over 28,000 entries, covering the period of 1904-1964 as well as 1824-1848.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
RESEARCH TIP: Land Records
Much of Indiana's land was surveyed using the rectangular survey system--a grid made up of a Township (which is numbered North or South from a fixed point, called the baseline) and a Range (which is numbered East or West from a fixed point, called the principal meridian). The baseline and principal meridian intersected at a point in Orange County (which is in the southern part of the state).
Each Township (not to be confused with a civil township, which was named--for example, Brown Township in Hendricks County) was made up of 36 numbered Sections. The Sections were numbered beginning in the northeast corner of the Township and then snaking left and right until ending in the southeast corner (see diagram, courtesy of Bureau of Land Management website).
A Section was 1 mile square and contained 640 acres. It was divided into quarter sections of 160 acres each. These quarter sections were referenced according to their direction on a compass--Northwest (NW), Northeast (NW), Southwest (SW) and Southeast (SE). The quarter section could also be further divided--for example, a half of it would be 80 acres; a quarter of it would be 40 acres.
When Indiana became a state in 1816, its land could be purchased from the federal government. These tracts of land were then subsquently bought and sold between individuals. The purchases from the federal government were made at General Land Offices (GLOs), with the nearest one to Hendricks County being in Crawfordsville. The Bureau of Land Management's website has a searchable database at http://www.glorecords.blm.gov/ which includes the Indiana land sales.
In a description of land, you usually work from right to left, as the description goes from the most specific to the most general. For example, a piece of land might be described as being
"The NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 16 in T16N R1E"
First you would locate on a map where in Hendricks County Township 16 North and Range 1 East intersect. From this grid that is overlaid with the civil townships of the county, you can see that it is an area around Brownsburg, in the northeast part of the county.
Next, you would locate Section 16 within that grid. Find the southeast quarter of that section, and then focus on the northeast quarter of that.
The Hendricks County Recorder (located on the top floor of the Hendricks County Government Center in Danville, pictured) has the land records for 1825 to present. The records are in ledger-size (11 x 17) white books, which are hard to maneuver onto a photocopier. Luckily, at one point they went through and created a set of photocopies from these ledger-size books, at the same time reducing them to legal size (8 1/2 x 14). These legal-sized copies are in red binders whose numbers correspond exactly to their white ledger book counterparts. Also, these reduced pages can be easily detached from the red binders for copying.
Deed books do not have an index; rather, there is a separate set of books, called Grantee/Grantor indexes (see sample pages). A Grantee was the person buying the land; a Grantor was the person selling the land. Each land transaction is therefore listed twice in the Grantee/Grantor indexes--once under the buyer's name and once under the seller's name. These indexes are separated by the letter of the last name but are not alphabetical--entries were made at the time that a deed was recorded, so you may need to browse through all the entries under that letter in order to find the transaction.
Hendricks County's grantee/grantor indexes for 1826 through 1889, and Hendricks County deed books for 1825 through 1886, have been microfilmed.That microfilm is available at the Family History Library, the Indiana State Library and also at the Plainfield library. The County Seat Genealogical Society (now defunct) typed up the grantee/grantor indexes for 1826 through 1853--the Danville library and the Plainfield library have copies of this book, and you can also request a lookup from it in the Lookups section of the Hendricks County GenWeb.
Plat maps are a great visual tool for showing who owned a parcel of land at a particular time. For example, Family Maps of Hendricks County, Indiana by Gregory A. Boyd (part of Arphax Publishing's Family Maps series) shows the location of all the parcels that were purchased through the federal government, and then shows the location of those parcels on a modern road map. J.H. Beers & Co. of Chicago published Atlas of Hendricks County, Indiana in 1878, whichn included plat maps of each town and township (see example, showing part of their plat map for Center Township).
The Archives on the Hendricks County Government website includes digital copies of plat maps from the Hendricks County Assessor's office. These plat maps cover various dates from 1880 through 1940, and include a map of each section, as well as a listing of all the owners and the location and assessed value of their land. See examples of a plat map from 1880.
Unfortunately, deed books are only a transcription of the land transaction, done by a government official--it does not include the actual signatures of the buyer or seller. For that, you would need to get a hold of the original deed, which may have gotten passed down through the family. See example of an original deed from 1865--note how the signatures and the name of the buyer have been precisely cut out of the page (perhaps similar to how mortgages were mutilated or burned once the obligation had been met?).
One reason why genealogists like land records (besides the fact that they can help you locate where your ancestor lived and when exactly they moved into the area) is that they are a good source for finding out about female ancestors when they may otherwise not be named in records. For example, if a man was married when he sold his land, his wife also had to sign on the deed, because it meant she was legally giving up her right to what she would otherwise inherit if her husband died (known as "dower").
A Section was 1 mile square and contained 640 acres. It was divided into quarter sections of 160 acres each. These quarter sections were referenced according to their direction on a compass--Northwest (NW), Northeast (NW), Southwest (SW) and Southeast (SE). The quarter section could also be further divided--for example, a half of it would be 80 acres; a quarter of it would be 40 acres.
When Indiana became a state in 1816, its land could be purchased from the federal government. These tracts of land were then subsquently bought and sold between individuals. The purchases from the federal government were made at General Land Offices (GLOs), with the nearest one to Hendricks County being in Crawfordsville. The Bureau of Land Management's website has a searchable database at http://www.glorecords.blm.gov/ which includes the Indiana land sales.
In a description of land, you usually work from right to left, as the description goes from the most specific to the most general. For example, a piece of land might be described as being
"The NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 16 in T16N R1E"
Hendricks County's grantee/grantor indexes for 1826 through 1889, and Hendricks County deed books for 1825 through 1886, have been microfilmed.That microfilm is available at the Family History Library, the Indiana State Library and also at the Plainfield library. The County Seat Genealogical Society (now defunct) typed up the grantee/grantor indexes for 1826 through 1853--the Danville library and the Plainfield library have copies of this book, and you can also request a lookup from it in the Lookups section of the Hendricks County GenWeb.
The Archives on the Hendricks County Government website includes digital copies of plat maps from the Hendricks County Assessor's office. These plat maps cover various dates from 1880 through 1940, and include a map of each section, as well as a listing of all the owners and the location and assessed value of their land. See examples of a plat map from 1880.
One reason why genealogists like land records (besides the fact that they can help you locate where your ancestor lived and when exactly they moved into the area) is that they are a good source for finding out about female ancestors when they may otherwise not be named in records. For example, if a man was married when he sold his land, his wife also had to sign on the deed, because it meant she was legally giving up her right to what she would otherwise inherit if her husband died (known as "dower").
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