Author Archives: Don Taylor

Willis Skillin Graduation Photo Album – Part 01

Posted on April 18, 2025 by Don Taylor

Adams, Coffin, James, Russell, & Stevens Photo FridayLDC Part 063Portland, MaineScarborough, MaineBy Don Taylor This treasured artifact from the Linwood D. Dyer Photo Collection[i] contains 32 pages of historical photographs, primarily cabinet cards, plus one loose photograph. Not all pages … Continue reading →

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Using mtDNA to Tackle a Maternal Brick Wall:

Posted on April 16, 2025 by Don Taylor

Exploring mtDNA matches to solve the mystery of Fanny Taylor’s maternal origins, I traced several exact matches but found no direct link—yet. This post outlines recent findings, including surnames from match lines and next research steps. The goal: to break through the maternal brick wall that is Fanny Taylor (1806–1889). Continue reading →

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Photo Friday – The Linwood Dyer Collection, Part 062

Posted on April 11, 2025 by Don Taylor

Dyer, Purington 2025.02.10By Don Taylor I returned to reviewing the white, 3-ring binder labeled “South Portland” (2025.02.10) from the Linwood Dyer Photo Collection. These people lived in Cape Elizabeth & South Portland, Maine. I hope to connect these historical photos … Continue reading →

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Chin-Chin in the News – 9 April 1920.

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Don Taylor

The Zanesville Signal (Zanesville, OH) Weller TheaterVaudeville/Chin-ChinBy Don Taylor My grandmother was a vaudeville star. I am following her career and learning about her many performances. In October 1919, she joined the cast of the Charles Dillingham production of “Chin-Chin” … Continue reading →

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Donna in Noblesville, Indiana, at the Wild Opera House, April 6-7, 1925

Posted on April 6, 2025 by Don Taylor

Donna Darling VaudevilleCalifornia Bathing GirlsBy Don Taylor Thanks to my Uncle Russ’s research, we know Donna played in Rushville, IN, on March 26th, but we do not know where she was for the 10 days from the 27th to April … Continue reading →

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