Category Archives: Ancestor Features

Research into the four family Lines, Roberts, Brown, Howell, and Darling.

Howell’s in the Censuses – Henry, Gideon, and Peter

Posted on September 21, 2025 by Don Taylor

Exploring the census records of Henry, Gideon, and Peter Howell in Buckingham County, Virginia, to uncover clues about the father of Peter M. Howell (1805–1865). This research examines 1840–1870 census evidence, agricultural schedules, and possible family connections. Continue reading →

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Nancy Strain (1802-1844): A Link Between the Strain Line and the Listers of Ohio.

Posted on September 1, 2025 by Don Taylor

Roberts ResearchRoberts-Barnes-Lister-Strain LineBy Don Taylor Nancy Strain Lister lived during a time of transition and expansion in early 19th-century America. Born in 1802, likely in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Samuel Strain, a man whose four … Continue reading →

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Nancy Strain (1802-1844)

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Don Taylor

Nancy Strain (1802–1844) was likely born in Pennsylvania and married William Lister of Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1822. Together they had five children before her untimely death at 42. This ancestor sketch explores her life, conflicting birth records, and the research still needed to uncover her full story. Continue reading →

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Biography of Frank H. Raidt (1851-1931)

Posted on July 7, 2025 by Don Taylor

Frank H. Raidt (1871–1933), was born in Watertown, Wisconsin. A carpenter who moved to Minneapolis, MN, he became a building contractor, raised a family and contributed to his community. His life shows the migration of Midwestern families in the late 1800s. He rests today in a Minneapolis cemetery. 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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