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Category Archives: Genealogy Research
A Case of Mistaken Identity? Mrs. Montran (or Montrose?) in Vicksburg, 1901.
Montran MondayBy Don Taylor As part of my ongoing Montran Monday series, I search historical newspapers for any mention of individuals bearing the Montran surname. Each brief reference is another clue in the larger puzzle of my maternal grandmother’s elusive … Continue reading
Joseph A. Holdsworth: A Tangle of Business, Bankruptcy, and Betrayal.
The story of great-grandma Ida’s third husband, Joseph A. Holdsworth, is a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century business and scandal. From managing a major paint company’s expansion to facing bank fraud charges and bankruptcy, Holdsworth’s tale is a lesson in ambition, deception, and downfall. Continue reading
Preserving Legacies: Blackstone, Bourgoin, Johnston, Skillings, & Stevens
Linwood Dyer Collection (Part 069)By Don Taylor Continuing with the Linwood Dyer Photo Collection, two photos are from “High School Graduation Portraits.” I have a handful of other pictures from that group that require further work to identify, because the … Continue reading
Donna Darling’s Surprise Appearance in Portland, Oregon – May 26, 1924.
An exciting discovery from The Oregonian (May 26, 1924)!
My grandmother, Madonna Montran—also known as Donna Darling—was a surprise addition to the vaudeville lineup that week, performing alongside her two male dance partners. Described as “a darling maid,” Donna’s act was full of lively steps and charming group songs. It’s always a thrill to uncover new stories from Donna’s 1910s-1920s showbiz days! Continue reading
Posted in 1924 - Donna Darling & Earle, Genealogy Research, In the news, Vaudeville
Tagged genealogy blog, Vaudeville, historic newspapers, Genealogy, 1920s entertainment, Family History, Portland Oregon, madonna montran, dance history, Donna Darling, show business, female performers, The Oregonian
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Montran Monday – A Watch Lost and Found in Pasadena, 1922
By Don Taylor As part of my ongoing “Montran Monday” series[i], I search historical newspapers for any mention of individuals bearing the Montran surname. Each small discovery helps me piece together the broader story of my maternal grandmother’s elusive father. … Continue reading
