Since my last two posts have focused on the new search for my biological family, I thought it appropriate to focus on my parents (my real parents). This is the story of my adoption, and what family and family history mean to me.
#52Ancestors: My Great Grandmother Agnes Viola Elizabeth Maud Mara Died 43 Years Ago Today
My 48th ancestor is my great grandmother Agnes Viola Elizabeth Maud Mara (1893-1971), who went by the name Viola. I have mentioned Viola in posts about her father, mother, brother, and mystery half-brother, but I have never actually profiled my great grandmother. Today marks the 43rd anniversary of her death.
#52Ancestors: 2nd Great Grandmother Annie Sophia Allen Charged with Fraud and Deception in Divorce
My 2nd great grandmother Annie Sophia Allen (b. 1871) was charged with divorce from husband John Carr on the grounds of fraud and deception. I am not sure Allen ever legally divorced her first husband Thomas Mara. Was this the fraud? She also committed at least one lie on her marriage record to Carr.
#52Ancestors: 2nd Great Grandfather Thomas Mara Charged with Extreme Cruelty in Divorce
My 2nd great grandparents Thomas Mara and Anna Sophia Allen, married in 1892, divorced in 1902 on the grounds of extreme cruelty. The divorce took place one day after Anna was already remarried. Was she a bigamist?
#52Ancestors: Dorland Eugene Buddy Hayes, the Brother Grandma Never Really Knew
Buddy was the sibling born immediately prior to my grandmother, Elsie Charlotte Hayes. They were just a little over a year apart in age. Neither I, nor Mom, nor Grandpa ever met Uncle Buddy. Because, sadly, Buddy died at just four years old
#52Ancestors: WWI And PFC William James Mara
My 24th entry in Amy Johnson Crow’s “52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks” family history blogging challenge. The challenge: have one blog post each week devoted to a specific ancestor. It could be a story, a biography, a photograph, an outline of a research problem — anything that focuses on one ancestor. My 24th ancestor is […]
#52Ancestors: Mom, Keeper of Grandma’s Awesome Pumpkin Pie & Pie Crust Recipes
Let me proclaim here and now that my Mom makes THE BEST pumpkin pie and THE BEST pie crust in the world. Hands down. Even people who don’t like pumpkin pie like hers. Mom learned how to make her perfect pumpkin pie and perfect pie crust from her mother, my grandmother Elsie Charlotte HAYES (1926-1992). Grandma was a terrible cook (terrible is an understatement)! But, the lady could bake…especially pie!
