Abbreviated Sketch –Thomas Valentine Rooney (1887-1960)

Posted on November 20, 2022 by Don Taylor

007-H(2) – The 2nd Husband of Madonna Mae Montran

Brown-Montran Line
Montran Married Roone
By Don Taylor

Photo of Don Taylor with cat Nasi.My research into my grandmother’s life has been filled with surprises. None so much as learning of her many marriages. She was married twice before she married my uncle’s father, Sammy Amsterdam. First, she married Chester Fenyvessey in 1911. Then she married Thomas Valentine in 1915. Neither marriage were known about by either my mother or my uncle. After her time with Chester in Rochester, New York, she headed to California to be one of Mack Sennett’s Bathing Beauties. In 1914 Donna was in the silent movie “Birth of a Nation,” which was filmed in California. After “Birth,” she located to Boston, Massachusetts, where she promoted the film through a Biplane Flight over Revere in July 1915. On 24 November 1915, Donna married Thomas Valentine Rooney in a ceremony performed by T. Brosnahaw in Waltham, Massachusetts.

The “Husbands” of Madonna Mae Montran

1st Husband – Chester Fenyvessey (1911)
2nd Husband – Thomas Valentine Rooney (1915)
3rd Husband – Samson Clark Amsterdam (1926) – Russell’s father.
1st Significant Other Clifford Brown (1931)- Sylvia’s father.
2nd Significant Other– Russell Harrison Kees (1936)
3rd Significant Other – Henry Rossburg (c. 1950)

Thomas Valentine Rooney (1887-1960)

BMD

Birth

Thomas Valentine Rooney was born on 29 January 1887 in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, the second child of Neil H and Mary E (Fahey) Rooney.

Marriage 1

Thomas’ first marriage was to my Grandmother, Madonna Mae Montran, on 24 November 1915. They were married at St. Mary’s Church in Waltham, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, by T. Brosnashaw, a priest. Witnesses were James Downey and Hazel McCary.

Cropped image of Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston Records, 1789-1920 - St. Mary (Waltham) Marriages, 1891-1920 showing the marriage of Thomas Rooney & Donna Montran.

Source: American Ancestors (NEHGS) – St. Mary (Waltham) Marriages, 1891-1920, Page 354. Thomas Valentine Rooney & Mae Donna Montran 24 Nov 1915.

The marriage record for Thomas and Madonna includes an entry I don’t quite understand. I’ve previously seen Catholic marriages with a Dispensatio: mixta religio (mixed religion dispensation) entries. In this case, there is a date entered of 1915-39. Thomas and Madonna were married in 1915. Does the 39 mean the mixed marriage dispensation lasted until 1939, suggesting the church recognized the marriage until then? Donna married Sammy in 1926, and Thomas married Daisy in 1928. Neither subsequent marriage was in the Catholic Church, so I suspect that Thomas and Donna weren’t formally divorced, and the Catholic Church still recognized their marriage until 1939. Very Interesting. I’d love to hear from you if you have a different interpretation of the record.

Marriage 2

Thomas’ second marriage was to Daisy Elizabeth Ford on 12 April 1928 in Manhattan, New York City, New York. Daisy was an actress, and Thomas was a theatrical manager. Although they were married at the Municipal Chapel at the City Clerk’s office, they planned to have a religious ceremony by Father Leonard of St. Malachy’s Church in Rochester, New York.

Death

Thomas died on 29 April 1960 of an aortic aneurysm. He was preceded in death by his wife, Daisy. His death certificate indicates he was buried at the San Fernando Mission Ceremony; however, he does not appear in the memorials at Find-a-Grave for that cemetery.

Censuses

1900 Census

13-year-old Thomas lived with his parents, Neil & Mary, his paternal grandmother, Annie Rooney, his three brothers (John, Neil & James), and his sister, Mary.

1910 Census

22-year-old Thomas lived with his widowed mother, Mary, his three brothers (John, Neil & James), his sister-in-law, Mary (Neil’s wife), and his nephew, Joseph (Neil’s son). Thomas was a commercial traveler in the root beer industry.

1920 & 1930 Censuses

I have not found Thomas in the 1920 or 1930 Censuses. On January 1st, 1920, Donna was with the “Chin Chin” show playing in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I doubt he and Donna made the tour together.

1940 Census

Thomas and Daisy were living at 22 Crescent Heights Blvd, Los Angeles. Thomas was a theatrical talent manager. Daisy was a motion picture actress.

1950 Census

Photo of 7515 De Longpal, Los Angeles Today

7515 De Longpal, Los Angeles – Today

Thomas and Daisy were living at 7515 De Longpal, Los Angeles. Thomas was an actor’s agent for motion pictures. Daisy doesn’t have an occupation listed.

Children

It does not appear that Thomas had any children with either Donna or Daisy.

Posted in Brown-Montran, Ancestor Features | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Ethel Wight Collection – Part 107

Posted on November 18, 2022 by Don Taylor

Photo Friday – Nicholson, Nickerson (née Wolfe), & Nielsen.

By Don Taylor

Photo of Don Taylor with cat Nasi.This week, for Photo Friday, I identify the people in five more envelopes from the Ethel Wight Studio Collection[i]. The envelopes typically contain the name of the person who paid for the photos, not necessarily of the individual portrayed in the image. As such, it is vital to analyze the pictures and information to identify the individual therein.[ii] Ultimately, my goal is to reunite the photos with family members who may have never seen the image.

 Anne D Nielsen, circa 1936.

The envelope this negative was in says, “Miss A. D. Nielson, State St Hospital #1037.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Photo of  Anne D Nielsen, circa 1936.

    Anne D Nielsen, circa 1936.

    No one named A. D. Nielson in the 1935-1938 Portland City directories.

  • However, the 1938 Portland City Directory lists Anna D Nielsen, as a telephone operator who resides at 45 Johansen. Also at 45 Johansen are Carl G, Christian, George Jr, Kay D, and Rigmor C Neilsen.
  • The 1937 Portland City Directory lists Anna Nielsen, as a dental assistant at 565 Congress, Room 204, residing at 45 Johansen.
  • Ancestry Family Trees indicate that Anna D Nielsen was born on 2 Dec 1911 in Portland. Her parents are Christian and Laurine Neilson. Her siblings include Kay, Rigmor, Carl, and Christian G (George), Jr.
  • Anna Damesholte Nielsen appears in the 1930 Portland High School yearbook. In it, she indicates her college preference is St. Barnabas Hospital, suggesting that she was interested in a medical profession. Additionally, the photo of her in the yearbook appears to be of the same young woman.

I believe this is Anna Damesholte Nielsen about 1936 when she attended school at the State Street hospital and became a dental assistant.

Ancestry has two public trees that refer to Anna D Nielsen. Family Search has profile GXYN-PYG for Anna D. Nielsen (1911-1980). I have uploaded two photos of Anna to her Family Search Memories.
 

Edith Nickerson, Nurse, circa 1935

 This negative envelope says, “Miss Edith Nickerson, Me Gen Hospital #620.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Photo of Edith Nickerson, Nurse, circa 1935

    Edith Nickerson, Nurse, circa 1935

    The 1935 Portland City Directory lists Edith Nickerson, a student nurse at 22 Arsenal (Maine General Hospital).

  • The 1940 US Census lists Edith Nickerson, a 24-year-old trained nurse in private duty living at 254 Spring St, a boarder with Martin and Annie Campbell. Edith was born in Canada and lived in Portland in 1935.
  • Edith Estella Nickerson, of 254 Spring St., a registered nurse, declared her intent to become a US Citizen. Edith was born on 31 Jul 1915 in Gardners Mills, Nova Scotia.

I am sure this is Nurse Edith Nickerson, circa 1935, when she was about 20 years old.

Ancestry has 40 public trees that refer to Edith Estella Nickerson (1915-2003). Family Search has profile LT77-5N6 for Edith Estella Nickerson. I have uploaded two photos of Edith to her Family Search Memories.

Helen Nicholson, circa 1935.

This negative envelope says, “Miss Helen Nicholson, 338 Danforth St #384.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Photo of Helen Nicholson, circa 1935.

    Helen Nicholson, circa 1935.

    The 1935 Portland City Directory lists Helen F Nicholson, a clerk who resides at 238 Danforth. Also at that address are Charles D and his wife, Nellie P Nicholson.

  • The 1940 US Census lists Charles and Philomena Nicholson living with their daughter, 27-year-old Helen, at 238 Danforth St.

I believe this photo is of Helen Nicholson, daughter of Charles and Philomena Nicholson.

Ancestry has one public tree that refers to Helen F. Nicholson, born on 4 Feb 1912 to Charles and Philoman (Perrin) Nicholson. Family Search has profile G811-QST for Helen Frances Nicholson (1912-1978). I have uploaded two photos of Helen to her Family Search Memories. 

Norman Grant and Mary Alice (née Wolf) Nicholson, circa 1935 (wedding photos).

This negative envelope says, “Mr. and Mrs. N G Nicholson, 209 Stevens Ave – Wedding pictures – #1076.”

Why I believe this to be these individuals:

  • Photo of Norman Grant and Mary Alice (née Wolf) Nicholson, circa 1935 (a wedding photo).

    Norman Grant and Mary Alice (née Wolf) Nicholson, circa 1935 (wedding photos).

    The 1936 Portland City Directory lists Norman G and Mary A Nicholson living at 209 Stevens.

  • Massachusetts Marriages indicate that Norman G Nicholson and Mary Alice Wolf married in 1935 in Winthrop, MA.
  • The 1940 US Census places Norman and Mary living in Freeport, Maine. Norman was 34, and Mary was 29 years old. Both were born in Massachusetts. Mary lived in Winthrop, MA, in 1935.
  • Ancestry Family Trees suggest these are Norman Grant Nicholson (1906-1983) and Mary Alice Wolf (1911-1997)

I believe these photos are of Norman and Mary, about 1935 when they married.

Photo of Mary Alice (née Wolf) Nicholson, circa 1935.

Mary Alice (née Wolf) Nicholson, circa 1935.

Norman Grant Nicholson appears in 35 Ancestry Public Trees. Family Search has profile LVKT-G79 for Norman Grant Nicholson (1906-1983).

Mary Alice “Babs” Wolf Nicholson appears in 9 Ancestry Public Trees. Family Search has profile LLMS-KGS for Mary Alice Wolf (1911-1997).

I have uploaded one photo of Norman and Mary to their Family Search Memories.

I uploaded one more photo of Mary alone to her Family Search Memories. I also uploaded one more photo of Mary and two more of the couple to my Flickr photostream.

 

Richard Nielsen, circa 1935 (age 7)

This negative envelope says, “Mrs. Harry Nielson, 17 Amhurst St, Woodfords #980.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Photo of Richard Nielsen, circa 1935 (age 7).

    Richard Nielsen, circa 1935 (age 7)

    The 1935 Portland City Directory lists Harry A and Addievilla Nielsen living at 17 Amherst.

  • The 1950 US Census lists Harry and Addivilla Nielsen living at 17 Amherst with their 22-year-old son, Richard J. Richard, who was born in Michigan.
  • The 1940 US Census lists Harry and Addivilla J Neilsen living at 17 Amherst with their 12-year-old son, Richard. There are no other children in the household.

I am confident this is a photo of Richard Jewett Neilsen, born 22 December 1927 to Harry Albert and Addievilla Dresser (Jewett) Neilson in Flint, Michigan.

Some Ancestry Public Trees suggest Richard Jewett Nielsen was born in Waterville, Maine, to Charles Henry Marcia and Lucy Elmie Jewett; however, I am confident Richard’s parents are Harry and Addievilla. Ancestry has 24 public trees that refer to Richard Jewett Nielsen; however, several of those 24 trees indicate different parents. Family Search has profile G4YL-19Q for Richard Jewitt Nielsen. I uploaded one photo of Richard to his Family Search Memories.

 Conclusion

  • I fully identified all five All of them have Family Search profiles, so I uploaded their images to their Family Search Memories
  • The one couple with wedding photos had three additional images, which I uploaded to my Flickr Photostream.

If any of these photos are of your family member, I would love to hear your reaction. Especially if this photo is of a loved one for whom you hadn’t seen this photograph before.

Due to software limitations, the images uploaded to Family Search, Dead Fred, and Flickr have a higher image quality than the images linked here.

For all postings of the Ethel Wight Collection, please see here.

Endnotes

[i] The Wight Studio was in Portland, Maine. Many thanks to Ethel Wight’s family for access to and permission to use the collection of their great aunt.

[ii] These images were converted to positives using a lightbox, a Nikon camera and computer software.

Posted in Ethel Wight Studio, Faces from the Past | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

James Walter & Ohio’s Revolutionary War Roster.

Posted on November 13, 2022 by Don Taylor

Part 3 of 3 – of my Margaret Ann Swann – Do Over.

Darling Research
Darling-Swayze-Walter Line
By Don Taylor

(Part 1 is here.)
(Part 2 is here.)

The third source I want to examine is The Official Roster of the Soldiers of the American Revolution Buried in the State of Ohio[i] – Page 385 – Walter, James (Fairfield Co.) The book indicates:

          WALTER, JAMES (Fairfield Co.)

Sgt “Forage Master.” Br Maryland, 1759. Mar Margaret Ann Levan, of Maryland, after the Revolutionary war, date not known. Children: Nancy, mar Leevir; Elkanah, mar Rachel Decker ; Catherine Ann Dent, mar David Levayzee;  Eliz, mar Chas Stockard 1, James Gurley 2; James, mar Polly ___; John, mar Belinda Reese. D May 10, 1838, Lancaster, O. Bur Old Methodist Cem and City Burial Plot Lancaster, O. Cem converted into park, bodies moved to new Cem in Lancaster, marking on head stone obliterated and identification impossible. MI: “James Walter, died May 10, 1838, aged 80 years, 2 mo, 23 da.” Jan 4, 1804, received transfer of 400 acres in Ky for serv in Rev War. Deeded in Frederick Co, Va. His name appears on a muster roll of a detachment of artillery commanded by Capt Lt Booker, belonging to the 1st Regt, dated Camp near Bacon Bridge, Apr 2, 1782, covering the months of Jan, Feb and Mch, 1782, which shows that he enlisted for the war. Ref: Natl No 12581 James Lincoln (Capt) Mass. Old Northwest Genealogical Quarterly Vol 3, p 74. Letter fr War Dept signed “Lutz Wahl, Brigadier Gen, Acting the Adj Gen, by E. W. M.” Fur infor War Dept The Adj Gen Office Washington.

This book entry has some transcription errors. It clearly was transcribed from other sources, and the original must have included S’s that looked like L’s and w’s that looked like ev’s. I note the following errors:

  • Margaret Ann Levan should be Margaret Ann Swan.
  • Nancy married Leevir should be Nancy married Lewis.
  • Catherine Ann Dent married David Levayzee should say she married David Swayze.

It also gave me 21 facts about James Walter, his wife Margaret, and their children. Other than the transcription errors, it is a great source.

The book also provides two other sources to review:

  • The Old Northwest Genealogical Quarterly Vol 3, p 74.[ii]
  • Letter fr War Dept signed “Lutz Wahl, Brigadier Gen, Acting the Adj Gen, by E. W. M.

Old Northwest Genealogical Quarterly

Title page – The “Old Northwest” Genealogical Quarterly – 1900 – Volume III.

The Old Northwest Genealogical Quarterly Vol 3, p 74, includes entries of “Monumental Inscriptions Within the Old Methodist Cemetery and City Burial Plat, in Lancaster, Ohio. Several of the Walter family members are mentioned, including:

  • John S. Walter – died May 17, 1849
  • James Walter – Died May 10, 1938, aged 86 yr. 2 mo. 23 da.
  • Mary Jane Water – dau. John S. & Bolinda[iii] Walter, d. Apr. 26, 1837 age 5 yr. 4 mo. 14 da.
  • Infant son of John S & Bolinda Walter d. Apr 20, 1827.

This source provided new information (to me) regarding John Walter’s death and two of his children. From the 1830 Census, I knew John had two daughters that were born before 1830. I now knew he also had a son (unnamed) and another daughter, Mary Jane, who was born 12 Dec 1831 and died at the age of 5.

Letter fr War Dept signed “Lutz Wahl, Brigadier Gen.

My initial searches have been unsuccessful in finding the Lutz Wahl letter from the War Department. I’ve added this search to my further research task list.

Conclusion

Now that I have had a chance to clean up some of my sources, I am ready to return to researching Margaret Ann (Swan) Walter.

Endnotes

[i] Available at the Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/officialrosterof1929ohiorich/page/385/mode/1up.

[ii] Available at the Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/oldnorthwestgene03oldn/page/n181/mode/2up.

[iii] Other sources suggest her name was spelled “Belinda.”

Posted in Darling-Huber | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Veteran’s Day – 2022

Posted on November 11, 2022 by Don Taylor

Updated for 2022
By Don Taylor

Don Taylor in uniform, Barracks, Naval Station Treasure Island (San Francisco) ca. May 1969.

Today, I remember my ancestors that served in the military. I served during Vietnam and my ancestors served during every generation and many of our wars – Korea, both World Wars, the Civil War, the War of 1812, Revolutionary War, the French and Indian War, and even peacetime. I know of seven ancestors who served during the Revolution and four who served during the Civil War for the Union.

To all veterans, “thank you” for taking the oath. It is one of the most life-changing events of your life, I remember mine, and I’m sure you remember yours. I encourage everyone to use Veterans Day as a motivation to learn more about your ancestors that have worn the uniform of the United States.

New

Flag of the United States (1795-1818)In the past year, I’ve learned of another ancestor that served, my 3rd great-grandfather, William Lister (1793-1848). He served in Capt. Alexander Robinson’s company during the War of 1812. He was a private in the Army. He also served in Capt. George Yocums Company of the Ohio Militia.

Korean War

My Uncle – Russell Kees (1927-2016) fought during the Korean War.

World War II

My stepfather, Edgar Jerome Matson fought in Europe during World War II

1928-1931 – Peacetime Service

Clifford (Dick) Brown – 3rd from left, back row – Corozal (Panama) Basketball Champions – 1928.jpg

My Grandfather – Richard Earl Brown (aka Clifford Durwood Brown, aka Richard Earl Durand) (1903-1990) My maternal grandfather “Dick” served in the Army. Little is known about his peacetime military service.
In 1928, he was in the army stationed in Panama. He was a member of the base’s champion basketball team (See: Article).
In 1930, he met my Grandmother in Panama.  It appears that he was discharged in 1931.

World War I

My step-grandfather Sammy Amsterdam served during World War I.

Civil War – Grand Army of the Republic

My 2nd great-grandfather, Franklin E Barber (1836-1917), enlisted for three years into  Company I, 6th Michigan Heavy Artillery on 22 February 1864. He mustered out on 20 August 1865 at New Orleans.

My 2nd great-grandfather – John William Manning (1846-1888).
On 29 Aug 1863, John enlisted in the GAR, at the age of 17, into the 45th Regiment of Kentucky. His father, Enoch Mannin, gave his consent for young John William to enlist. Sometime between May and June of 1864 he was captured by the South (Morgan).
He mustered out on 30 Dec 1864.

My 3rd great-grandfather – Enoch Mannin (1823-1907)
On 29 Aug 1863 – Enoch enlisted (at the same time as his son John) in the 45th Regiment of Kentucky.
Between May and June of 1864, he was captured by the South (Morgan)
He was discharged on 29 Dec 1864 at Catlettsburg, KY.

My 2nd great-grandfather – Asa Ellis Roberts (1835-1887)
On 15 Aug 1861, Asa Joined the Union – Company I, 31st Regiment, Illinois Volunteers for 3 years. He was discharged early due to chronic pericarditis.

War of 1812

15 Star flag War of 1812

My 3rd great-grandfather – John Calvin Roberts (1795-1873)
John C. Roberts was a veteran of the War of 1812, serving in Captain Chiles & Lieutenant Conway’s Company of Tennessee Militia. He enlisted Sep. 20, 1814 at Kingston, TN and was discharged there on May 1, 1815, serving 224 days. He received a pension for his War of 1812 military service.

My 3rd great-grandfather, William Lister (1793-1848) served in Capt. Alexander Robinson’s company during the War of 1812. He was a private in the Army. He also served in Capt. George Yocums Company of the Ohio Militia.

Revolutionary War

My 7th great-grandfather – Grover Buel (1732-1818)
Revolutionary War (DAR – Patriot # A016639
He was a soldier of the Dutchess Co. New York Militia 6th Regiment.
He received Land Bounty Rights after the war.

My 6th great-grandfather – John Maben (1753-1813)
(DAR – Patriot # A072838) Private – 1st Claverack Batt, 9th Regt.
Private – Capt Hawley, Col Van Ness; Albany Co. Mil/New York

My 6th great-grandfather – John Parsons, Sr (1737/1738-1821)
DAR – Patriot# A088240
Lieutenant – Second LT in Capt Samuel Wolcott, 10th Co, 1st Berkshire Cnty Regt of MA Militia.
Lieutenant – Also Lt. Cap. Elijah Daming, Col Ashley.

My 6th great-grandfather – Wicks Weeks Rowley (1760-1826)
(DAR – Patriot # A09932). Private – New York Militia.

Minute Man – Lexington, Massachusetts

My 6th great-grandfather – Stephen Taft (1710-1803).
Stephen was a Lieutenant of Massachusetts Militia. He was a Minute Man at the Lexington Alarm.

My 5th great-grandfather – Silas Taft (1744-1822)
Serviced under Capt. Bezaleel Taft and Col. Nathan Taylor. He responded to the “Lexington Alarm.”

My 6th great-grandfather – Samuel Wolcott (1736-1802)
(DAR Patriot # A127434)
Captain – 10th Co, 1st Regt, Berkshire Co Militia; Col Hopkins Regt to Highlands.

French and Indian Wars

Colonial Ensign

My 8th great-grandfather – Samuel Wolcott (1679-1734)
“He commanded a military company.”
According to “The Family of HENRY WOLCOTT” by Chandler Wolcott. See: https://archive.org/details/wolcottgenealogy00wolc “He probably served in either King Williams War 1688-1697 or Queen Ann’s War (1702-1713). These wars were the first two of the four French and Indian Wars, which pitted New France against New England.

I know I have more to discover and more to learn about their service, but 18 veteran ancestors is a great beginning.

Posted in Roberts-Barnes, Military | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Ethel Wight Collection – Part 106

Posted on November 11, 2022 by Don Taylor

Photo Friday – Neal, Neales, & Neily

By Don Taylor

Photo of Don Taylor with cat Nasi.This week, for Photo Friday, I identify the people in five more envelopes from the Ethel Wight Studio Collection[i]. The envelopes typically contain the name of the person who paid for the photos, not necessarily of the individual portrayed in the image. As such, it is vital to analyze the pictures and information to identify the individual therein.[ii] Ultimately, my goal is to reunite the photos with family members who may have never seen the image.

Nurse Lora Gertrude Neal, circa 1935.

This negative envelope says, “Miss Lora Neal, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Conn – 350 Congress Ave – #449.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Lora Gertrude Neal, circa 1935.

    The 1934 New Haven City Directory lists Lora G Neal as a nurse at NH Hospital and residing at 350 Congress av.

  • Delaware Death Records indicate Lora Gertrude Neal, a 29-year-nurse, died on 1 May 1936 of “Sarcoma of Stomach.”

I am confident this photo is of Lora Gertrude Neal (1906-1936), about 1935.

Ancestry has three trees that refer to Lora G Neal. Family Search has profile LRHQ-9P5 for Lora Gertrude Neal. I have uploaded this photo of Lora to her Family Search Memories. 

Nurse Lora Neal (Circa 1930)

This negative envelope says, “Lora Neal Copy – 1942.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Nurse Lora Neal (Circa 1930)

    This photo package contains a photo of a photo. The reproduction was done, per the envelope, in 1942. The picture is the same Nurse Lora Neal I looked at before. She appears a bit younger in this photo than she looked in the 1935 photo. So, I’ll date it circa 1930.

I am confident this photo is of Lora Gertrude Neal (1906-1936), probably about 1930.

Ancestry has three trees that refer to Lora G Neal. Family Search has profile LRHQ-9P5 for Lora Gertrude Neal. I have uploaded this photo of Lora to her Family Search Memories.

Rupert E Neily, circa 1934.

The negative envelope says, “Mr. E Rupert Neily, 562 Congress St – #40.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Rupert E Neily, circa 1934.

    The 1933 Portland City Directory lists Rupert E Neily as a treasurer and music teacher at 562 Congress, Room 517, and home at 48 Drew rd, South Portland. Rupert’s wife is named Anne.

  • The 1930 Census lists Rupert Neily, a 54-year-old music teacher living at 8 Stony Brook Road, Cape Elizabeth. With him are his 38-year-old wife, Ann, and his 12-year-old son, Rupert. Rupert (senior) was born in Nova Scotia.
  • Ancestry Trees suggest this is Rupert E. Neily, born 8 Feb 1876 in Williamstown, Nova Scotia. He married Fay Anne McAdams and had two sons, including Rupert E Neily, Jr.

I am confident this photo is of Rupert E. Neily, born 8 Feb 1876.

17 Ancestry public trees refer to Rupert E. Neily. Family Search has profile 9VV7-11C for Rupert E. Neily. I have uploaded two photos of Rupert to his Family Search Memories. There were five images of good quality of Rupert, so I also uploaded three photos of him to my Flickr Photostream.

Donald Neal, circa 1935 (age 5)

The envelope this negative was in says, “M. Donald Neal, Wilmington, Del, 433 Geddes St #451.

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Donald Neal, circa 1935 (age 5)

    The 1940 US Census lists Arthur M & Ruth C Neal living at 433 Geddes St, Wilmington, Delaware. Their ten-year-old son, Donald A Neal, is living with them.

  • This photo was taken about 1935 when Donald was about five years old.

This photo is of Donald Alfred Neal, born on 28 Nov 1929.

Ancestry has five public trees that refer to Donald Alfred Neal. Family Search does not appear to have a profile for the son of Arthur Morrison Neal and Ruth Evelyn Capstack. I uploaded this photo of Donald to Dead Fred.
 

Bert Edward Neales, circa 1936 (age 2).

This negative envelope says, “Mrs. Edmond Neales, 87 Franklin St #1020.”

Why I believe this to be the individual.

  • Bert Edward Neales, circa 1936 (age 2).

    The 1935 Portland City Directory lists six individuals with the Neales surname.

    • Ellen F Neales residing at 151 Franklin
    • James E, Rosa A, and James E jr. residing at 15 Smith.
    • John C and Jennie W, whose home was 82 Beckett.
    • At 87 Franklin, no Edmond or Neales were listed
  • The 1936 Portland City Directory lists James E Neales living in the Colby Apartments, 87 Franklin St. Apt 36.
  • The 1940 US Census lists two James E Neales living in Portland.
    • 54-year-old James E, his wife Rose, and his mother Mary live at 103 Lancaster Street.
    • 30-year-old James E jr., his wife Ellen, and four children live in Portland. The oldest, Bert E, is five years old.
  • Ancestry family trees suggest this is Bert Edward Neales, born 22 Jul 1934 in Portland, Cumberland County, Maine, to James E and Ellen F (Hight) Neales.

I believe this to be a photo of Bert about 1936 when he was about two years old.

Ancestry has four public trees that refer to Bert Edward Neales, born on 22 Jul 1934. Family Search does not appear to have a profile for Bert Edward Neales. However, his father, Edward James Neales, Jr, appears as profile GWQ4-72W. I uploaded a photo of Bert photo to Dead Fred.

 Conclusion

  • I fully identified all four individuals from five photo envelopes. Two of them have Family Search profiles, so I uploaded their images to their Family Search Memories. The other two did not have Family Search profiles but did appear in Ancestry trees, so I posted their pictures to Dead Fred.
  • One individual had five images in the package, so I uploaded three photos to my Flickr Photostream.

If any of these photos are of your family member, I would love to hear your reaction. Especially if this photo is of a loved one for whom you hadn’t seen this photograph before.

Due to software limitations, the images uploaded to Family Search, Dead Fred, and Flickr have a higher image quality than the images linked here.

For all postings of the Ethel Wight Collection, please see here.

Endnotes

[i] The Wight Studio was in Portland, Maine. Many thanks to Ethel Wight’s family for access to and permission to use the collection of their great aunt.

[ii] These images were converted to positives using a lightbox, a Nikon camera and computer software.

Posted in Ethel Wight Studio, Faces from the Past | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment