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Johann Rudolph "Ralph" Younkin was born on on July 7, 1766 in Bedminster Township, Bucks County, PA, the son of German immigrants Johannes "Heinrich" and Catharina (Scherer) Junghen. A record of his birth was written, in the German script, in the Keller's Lutheran Church documents.

When baptized as an infant, Rudolph's sponsors were Rudolph and Eve Ackerman.

Record of Rudolph's birth, in German, Keller's Church

In about 1788, at the age of about 22, he married 19-year-old Elizabeth Hockman (June 7, 1769-1831), also spelled “Hackman,” the daughter of Rudolph and Elizabeth Hockman.

Their nine known children were Elisabeth Jungken, Squire John Younkin Sr., Henry Younkin, Jacob Younkin, Samuel Younkin, Abraham Younkin, Mary Magdalena Younkin, Joseph Younkin and Sarah "Sally" Younkin.

Perhaps in preparation for a move south and then west, Rudolph is known to have sold 118 acres of Hancock Township property to George Deal on May 13, 1796. That same day, he sold 87 acres of his Bedminister Township farm to Deal for £500.

Rudolph found himself the target of a legal inquisition in Bucks County in January 1797 when he was accused of keeping, maintaining a "certain ill-governed, disorderly House" frequented by "Men and Women of evil name" who had conducted "dishonest conversation." The adults were further said to have met on the Lord's Day (Sunday) to engage in drinking, tippling and misbehaving themselves" which was considered a "common nuisance."

In about 1798, the couple migrated to Loudoun County, VA. Their son Joseph was born in Lovettsville, Loudoun County in August 1806. Rudolph was enumerated in Loudoun in the 1810 census, written as "Ralph Younkin." Six of the family were in the household that year.

The family later moved into Somerset County, PA where three of Rudolph's brothers had settled - John (circa 1795), Frederick (1786) and Jacob (mid-1780s) They may have shuttled back and forth from Virginia and Pennsylvania during that time.

Research by the late Olive Duff shows that Rudolph’s name appears in a 1799 Somerset County court docket for the December term 1799, case no. 26, where Rudolph’s assignee George Swartz sued DeWalt Schneider over an unpaid debt of $72.

As Ohio opened to more orderly, safe settlement, they relocated again in about 1816, settling in Corning, Perry County, OH, where they lived the remainder of their lives. Rudolph is known to have sued "John Younkin" (relationship unknown) in a trespass case. When John paid for the court costs, the case was dismissed, No. 21 September Term 1823.

He likely is the same "John Younkin" enumerated among 11 family members in the 1820 census of Bearfield Township. When the census again was made in 1830, only three people lived in their dwelling.

Elizabeth died in Corning on May 24, 1831 at the age of 61.

Rudolph also spent his final years in Corning. The details of his final fate are not yet known.

In the 1930s, researcher Otto Roosevelt Younkin made an entry in his notebook saying that the Rudolph Younkins were buried in a family cemetery in Fultonham, Perry County.

Rudolph is named in a profile of his grandson Rufus Henry Younkin in the 1914 book Story of Lee County, Iowa, by Nelson Cummins Roberts and Samuel W. Moorhead.

Elisabeth's grave marker in German, 1797

~ Daughter Elisabeth Junghen ~

Elisabeth Junghen (1789-1797) was born on June 21, 1879 in Bucks County.

Her grandmother, the widow Elizabeth Hockman, was her sponsor at the christening held at Keller's Church on Aug. 29, 1789.

She spent her early years on her parents' farm in Bedminster Township, Bucks County.

Sadly, at the age of seven years, six months and 17 days, she passed away in Bedminster Township.

Her remains were placed into repose directly beside her grandfather Johannes “Heinrich” Junghen at Keller’s Church.

Her stone stands erect and legible today. It is inscribed: “Hier Ruhan Die Bebeine Des Ver Storbene Elisabeth Jungken. In Sie Ist Gebohren Im Uahr 1789 Den 21 Julius und 1 Gestoben Den 8 Jenuaruis im iahr 1797.”

~ Son "Squire" John Younkin Sr. ~

Graves of John and Margaret

"Squire" John Younkin (1791-1881) was born July 27, 1791 in Loudoun County, VA.

During the War of 1812, he lived in Frederick County, MD and was drafted into Capt. Samuel Dorsey's regiment of Maryland Militia. He served in the militia for seven weeks and then hired a substitute to fill his place. He then returned to Frederick County and remained for two years, until about 1816, when he migrated to Loudoun County, VA.

In 1816, he and Barbara Alexander bore a child, possibly out of wedlock, named John Younkins. Perhaps this is what triggered his move to Virginia.

John spent a year in Loudoun and in 1817 relocated again to Perry County, OH. He and his brother Samuel are considered among the earliest settlers near Porterville, Bearfield Township. Said a newspaper, "He entered the farm on which he resided until his death when it was all in woods; not a stick of timber cut until he went to build himself a log cabin to live in."

On Feb. 8, 1820 or 1821, in York Township, Morgan County, OH, he was united in matrimony with Anna Margaretha “Margaret” Trout (Nov. 13, 1800-1892), a native of Loudoun County and the daughter of Casper and Mary Ann (Ament) Trout. She had been baptized in infancy in Loudoun and as a child relocated to Rockingham County, VA. At the age of 15, in about 1815, she and her family moved again to Muskingum County, OH, where she joined the Lutheran Church. Then in 1818, the Trouts pushed into Morgan County, OH.

Fourteen children were born to the couple -- Mary Ann Younkin, Jacob Younkin, George Younkin, Susannah Younkin, Elizabeth Younkin, William Younkin, Lydia Jane Younkin, John Younkin Jr., James Younkin, Amos Younkin, Isaac Younkin, Ephraim P. Younkin, Eli Younkin and Margaret Black.

Sadly, they lost their eldest daughter Mary Ann in infancy. The baby’s tender remains were placed into rest in Holcomb's Church Cemetery, also known as Fletcher Chapel, two miles northwest of Portersville.

In his role as a justice of the peace, he is known to have performed the 1823 marriage ceremony for his sister, Sarah to John Trout. Other marriages he officiated in the 1822-1825 time period were Thomas Foreacre to Ruhanna Zartman - William Fickel to Sara Zartman - and Adam Goodlove to Suzannah Zartman.

The 1830 and 1850 censuses show the family in Bearfield Township, Perry County.

During the Civil War, in July 1863, the Younkins worried when word approached them that a band of mounted Confederates, led by General John Hunt Morgan, invaded eastern Ohio, heading toward Perry County and destroying anything in their path. Recalled a daughter, "Everybody near us wanted to hide, but I kept on with my chores around the house. After secreting the stock in the woods near our home, the neighbors came in and hid at our house, but the raiders were orderly and didn't bother us." More than 70 years afterward, in reporting on the Younkins' experience in the raid, a Zanesville newspaper commented that it was "a topic which is still discussed as the biggest event in parts of Perry, Morgan and Muskingum County during the war."

Morgan's Raiders invading eastern Ohio during the Civil War

Margaret's obituary, 1892

In 1880, still in Bearfield, John was age 88 and Margaret was 80. That year, he filed for a pension as a former American soldier. The claim was denied, as it was shown he provided "sufficient" service. (See File #30.744)

John died at the age of 89 on July 12, 1881, with burial in Holcomb's Church Cemetery. Under the terms of his will, Margaret was to receive an inheritance of cash and 20 bushels of wheat but no cow, household goods or sheep.

Margaret outlived her spouse by a decade. She joined him in death at the age of 91 on Jan. 11, 1892 in her home about 2.5 miles south of Deavertown, Perry County. An obituary in the New Lexington Tribune said that "She was a kind mother, loving wife and good neighbor. She never lost an opportunity to attend the church of her choice as longas her health would permit. She leaves a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn their loss."

Another obituary in the Tribune said that "She lived to see home after home and churches and school houses and towns grow up, and the wild forests disappear as well as the wolves that used to howl around their cabin. It was a great pleasure to her to tell of early times. She was the oldest lady in Bearfield township."

John is briefly described in the 1883 book History of Fairfield and Perry Counties, Ohio. The couple also were named in the Younkin Family News Bulletin obituary of their son Eli in 1937. Also in the 1930s, their twin children Margaret and Eli were considered "one of the oldest sets of twins in the nation."

Christ Reformed Church in Middletown, Maryland

Son John Younkins (1816-1901) was born on June 10, 1816 in Middletown, Frederick County to parents who were not married. Despite his illegitimate status, he was christened in the German Reformed Church, later known as the United Church of Christ, in Middletown. On June 18, 1840, in nuptials held in the Middletown Lutheran Church, he wedded Sarah Jane Fish (July 5, 1921-1901). The minister was paid $2 for his services. They were the parents of Frances Ann Catharine Kephart, Carlton Melanchton Younkin, Martin Luther Younkin, John William Taylor Younkin, Charlotte Elizabeth “Etta” O'Neal, Oliver Melvin Columbus Younkin, Emory Calvin Younkin, Claretta L.J. Klink and Mary Celesta “Mollie” Jones.  All of their children were baptized as babies in two Middletown churches, Zion Lutheran and German Reformed United Church of Christ. The 1850 Census lists him as head of the household, with 50-year-old Maryland-born Barbara Yonkins in the household. At some point he acquired land from Peter Schlosser. Sarah Jane died in New Baltimore, Frederick County on Jan. 25, 1901, age 79. John only outlived his wife by a few months. He died at the home of his son, John W. Younkin in New Baltimore, Frederick County at the age of 84 on April 23, 1901. Burial was in Middletown Lutheran Church Cemetery in Frederick. Rev. M.L. Beard officiated at the funeral, and pallbearers were S.E. Remsburg, H.C. McBride, John H. Routzahn, John C. Castle and C.S. Miller. An obituary in the Frederick News said that he was "an aged and highly respected resident of Middletown valley" and that "His was the third death to occur in the family during the present year." Two of the daughters married Isaac T.C. Long of New Baltimore and Amos O'Neall of Frosttown (Frostburg?), MD.

• Granddaughter Frances Ann Catharine Younkins (1841-1901) was born on Feb. 26, 1841 in Middletown, Frederick County. She was christened as a baby in the Zion Lutheran Church in Middletown on July 29, 1841. She married Henry Kephart ( ? - ? ). They resided on the Palmer farm on South Maintain in 1893. She died at the age of 59 on Jan. 29, 1901, a week after her mother's death.

• John and Sarah named two of their sons after famous German leaders of the Reformation -- Martin Luther (left) and Philip Melanchthon

  Grandson Carlton Melanchthon Younkins (1843-1925) was born on May 13, 1843 in Middletown, Frederick County. He was named for Philip Melancthon, a famed leader in the German Reformation movement. Carlton married Margaret "Ellen" Sigler ( ? - ? ). The family resided at New Baltimore, Frederick County, MD circa 1889. They made news that year in the Frederick News when they were "made sick last week by eating apple butter which had been packed in new crocks." He was mentioned in the News in July 1891 when he remarked that "he raised this season sixty bushels of potatoes on a patch of ground less than a quarter of an acre in size." Carlton passed away on Sept. 5, 1925 in Middletown.

• Grandson Martin Luther Younkins (1846-1890) was born in 1846 in Middletown, Frederick County. On Sept. 20, 1866, when he was 20 years of age, he married Caroline S. Koogle ( ? - ? ). F.A. Rupley officiated at the nuptials held in Middletown. Their offspring included a son, William Z. Younkins. Sadly, Martin died three days after Christmas 1890. Interment was in New Baltimore. Caroline survived him by a number of years and maintained a home in New Baltimore. On New Year's Eve 1901, she endured the death of 27-year-old son William to typhoid fever. His remains were placed into eternal repose in the Reformed Church Cemetery in Middletown, with Rev. M.L. Beard preaching the funeral service, and an obituary appearing in the Frederick News.

• Grandson John William Taylor Younkins (1848-1930) was born on Sept. 28, 1848 in Middletown, Frederick County. At the age of 19, on Feb. 10, 1868, he was united in matrimony with Indiana "Elizabeth" Reeder ( ? - ? ). Rev. A.M. Kester officiated at the wedding. The Younkinses resided in New Baltimore, Frederick County. The offspring they produced were Lillie May, Charles Walter Younkins, John David Younkins, William Edward Younkins, Sarah Elizabeth Ruth Younkins, Minnie Alice Younkins, Zella Elizabeth Younkins, Jasper Philhower Younkins and Lewis E. McComas Younkins. John died in New Baltimore on Aug. 19, 1930. Their son William corresponded with Younkin National Home-coming Reunion officials in the 1930s. In response to a postcard he had received, William wrote: "You asked about the Younkins well all I can tell you is this. My dad name is John Younkins, my mother's is Elizabeth Younkins. My Grand father name was John Younkins and grandmother Sara Younkins and her name was Fish before marriage. That is all I can tell you. I guess there is 50 or more Younkins down there all related." [View the letter.]

William Edward and Mary Bessie (Shank) Younkins of Middletown, MD. Right: portion of William's letter to the Younkin National Home-coming Reunion committee.

• Granddaughter Charlotte Elizabeth “Etta” Younkins (1851- ? ) was born on Feb. 3, 1851 in Middletown, Frederick County. On March 11, 1874, in a ceremony held near Mt. Tabor, Frederick County, she was joined in wedlock with Amos C. O'Neal ( ? - ? ).

• Grandson Oliver Melvin Columbus Younkins (1853-1936) was born on June 29, 1853 in Middletown, Frederick County. He was christened as an infant on April 11, 1854 in Zion Lutherran Cemetery in Middletown. At the age of 20, on Nov. 13, 1874, he wedded Charlotte "Elizabeth" Kaetzel ( ? - ? ). The nuptials were held in Washington County, MD. Oliver lived in Washington County in 1901. The Grim Reaper of Death cut him away on March 10, 1936 in Brownsville, Washington County.

• Grandson Emory Calvin Younkins (1856- ? ) was born on March 15, 1856 in Middletown, Frederick County. As a newborn, he was baptized in the Zion Lutheran Church in Middletown on April 10, 1856. On Christmas Eve 1876, when he was age 20, he married Laura Olivia Jones ( ? - ? ) in nuptials held in Frederick, Frederick County, MD. His home in 1901 was in Washington County, MD.

• Granddaughter Claretta L. J. Younkins (1858- ? ) was born on March 9, 1858 in Middletown, Frederick County. She was christened on June 30, 1858 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Middletown. She was united in marriage with (?) Klink ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Mary Celesta “Mollie” Younkins (1861- ? ) was born on March 6, 1861 in Middletown, Frederick County. In infancy, on Nov. 25, 1861, she was christened in the Zion Lutheran Church in Middletown. At the age of 23, on New Year's Day 1885, she was joined in matrimony with Isaac Jones ( ? - ? ). The wedding was held in her parents' home. She lived near Broad Run, MD in 1901.

Son Jacob Younkin (1822-) was born on Aug. 31, 1822. On Oct. 27, 1843, at the age of 21, he wedded Sarah Fickle (or “Tickle”) (1824- ? ). Their two known sons were Erastus Younkin and George Younkin. The family is shown in the Bearfield Township censuses of 1850 and 1860.

• Grandson Erastus Younkin (1843- ? ) was born in 1843.

• Grandson George Younkin (1847- ? ) was born in 1847.

Son George Younkin (1824- ? ) was born in 1824. At the age of 25, unmarried, he lived at home with his parents and earned his living as a farmer in Bearfield Township. He migrated to Iowa and earned a living as a school teacher. He never married.

Susannah and John Iden

Daughter Susannah Younkin (1826-1902) was born on March 19, 1826 in Morgan County, OH. At the age of 32, on Oct. 14, 1858, she was united in matrimony with John Iden (Aug. 10, 1827-1907), a native of Loudoun County, VA and the son of Alfred and Mary Ann (Bell) Iden. The wedding ceremony was held in Perry County. Some dozen years prior to their marriage, John made his first trip to Iowa and then in 1853 acquired a farm there. The newlyweds thus settled on a farm in Section 5 near Riverside, Washington County. Their seven children were Minerva "Minnie" Iden, DeWitt Iden, Julia May Iden, Margaret Ann Iden, Luella Belle Iden, JoAnn "Josie" Iden and Mary Catherine Iden. In 1880, when the History of Washington County, Iowa was published, John was featured in a biographical profile:

Iden, Joh, farmer; Sec. 5, P.O. Riverside; was born in Louden county, Virginia, and is the son of Alfred and Mary A. Iden; the family moved to Perry county, Ohio, where the subject of this sketch was raised on a farm; he came to this county first in 1846, and entered his land in 1853; he came to this county without means, and to use his own language he was "bareheaded and barefooted"; he now owns a fine farm of 480 acres, well improved; he was present at the organization of the township and voted at the first election; he married Miss Susanna Younkin in 1858; she was a native of Perry county, Ohio; they have a family of seven children: Minerva J., D.W., G.M., Margaret A., Luella B., Joanna, and Mary C.

History of Washington County, Iowa

Susannah died in Washington at the age of 76 on Nov. 4, 1902.

John outlived her by five years and joined her in death on Dec. 9, 1907 at the age of 80.

• Granddaughter Minerva "Minnie" Iden ( ? - ? )

• Grandson DeWitt Iden ( ? - ? ) was born on (?). On March 15, 1887, he wedded Mary Ann Pigg ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Julia May Iden ( ? - ? ) was born on (?). On Aug. 12, 1887, she married Harvey Kirk ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Margaret Ann Iden ( ? -1910) was born in (?). Her final years were spent in Arkansas in the town of Carlisle. She died on Sept. 29, 1910.

• Granddaughter Luella Belle Iden (1867-1945) was born on Jan. 10, 1867 in Washington County, IA. At the age of 22, on Dec. 16, 1889, she was united in matrimony with Theodore Raymond Benn (April 27, 1867-1949). Their four children were Glenn iden Benn, John Harold Benn, Elda Lea Benn, Doris Lucille Benn, Ronald Raymond Benn, Fern Belle Benn and Esther Maurine Woods. Achingly, the three eldest children did not survive into adulthood. Luella passed into eternity in Washington County on Feb. 8, 1945. He joined her in death four years later on June 23, 1949.

• Granddaughter JoAnn "Josie" Iden (1869-1956) was born on May 26, 1869 in Washington County, IA. On Nov. 14, 1893, when she was 24 years of age, she was joined in holy wedlock with John R. McCreedy ( ? - ? ). The Angel of Death swept her away in Washington County on April 18, 1956.

• Granddaughter Mary Catherine Iden (1871-1968) was born on Aug. 9, 1871 in Riverside, Washington County, IA. When she was 24 years of age, on March 24, 1896, she married James Edgar Gallagher ( ? - ? ). She died in Washington County on Feb. 18, 1968.

Daughter Elizabeth Younkin (1827-1918) was born on Christmas Eve 1827 in Ohio. She apparently did not marry. At the age of 46, in 1880, she lived with her parents in Bearfield Township, Perry County. She is believed to have succumbed to the Grim Reaper at the age of 90 years, eight months and 20 days on Sept. 17, 1918. Interment was in Holcomb Church Cemetery in Deavertown, OH. Nearly two decades after her passing, she was remembered and named in the obituary of her sister Margaret Black published in the Younkin Family News Bulletin.

Son William Younkin (1830- ? ) was born on Jan. 8, 1830 in Morgan County, OH. On Jan. 22, 1848, when William was age 18, he married Balinda Sisler ( ? - ? ). The wedding was held in Perry County, OH and registered in Marriage Book 2-3, page 179.

Daughter Lydia Jane Younkin (1832-1901) was born on March 10, 1832 in Ohio. As with her sister Elizabeth, she did not marry but chose to remain in her parents’ household in Bearfield Township. At the age of 69, on April 21, 1901, she passed into eternity. Burial was in Holcomb's Church Cemetery in Deavertown, OH.

Son John Younkin (1834- ? ) was born on March 7, 1834. According to research in the mid-1930s by Otto Roosevelt Younkin, John never married.

Obituary, 1910

Son James Younkin (1835-1910) was born on Jan. 20, 1835 in Perry or Morgan County, OH. When he was 25 years of age, he was joined in holy wedlock with Elizabeth Jane Patterson (1839- ? ) on Nov. 13, 1860. The couple migrated to Iowa and established roots on a farm in Ottumwa, Wapello County. They produced six children -- Mrs. W.L. Pritchard, Luella Belle Younkin, James Younkin Jr., Anna Jane Younkin, Robert W. Younkin and Hattie Stone. On Feb. 13, 1910, suffering from intestinal nephritis and heart problems, the 75-year-old James passed away at home in Ottumwa and was laid to rest in the Ottumwa Cemetery. Funeral services were led by Rev. E.J. Shook of the Willard Street Methodist Episcopal Church, with interment in Ottumwa Cemetery. Elizabeth survived her husband, but her final details are not yet known.

• Granddaughter (?) Younkin married W.L. Pritchard and lived in Kansas City in 1910.

• Granddaughter Luella Belle Younkin (1867- ? ) was born in about 1867. On Oct. 4, 1888, in a ceremony held in Wapello County, IA, she married Emerson M. Whitney. They were in Oklahoma City in 1910.

• Grandson James Younkin Jr. resided in New York City in 1910.

• Granddaughter Anna Jane Younkin (1875- ? ) was born in about 1875. At the age of 15, on Oct. 23, 1890, she wedded William W. Rankin ( ? - ? ), with the nuptials held in Ottumwa, Wapello County.

• Grandson Robert W. Younkin (1882-1911) was born on July 30, 1882. At the age of 29, in 1910, he lived with his parents in Ottumwa. He never married. Over the years, Robert earned a living as a teamster. His final address was 522 South Sheridan Avenue in Ottumwa, Wapello County. He died on June 25, 1911. Funeral services were held in the family home, led by Rev. E.J. Shook of Willard Street Methodist Episcopal Church. Burial was in Ottumwa Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Hattie Younkin married Hamiliner S. Stone. They were the parents of Eva Stone. The Stones were in Chicago in 1910.

Obituary, 1918

Son Amos Younkin (1838-1918) was born on Feb. 9, 1838 in Perry County, OH. He was married and had a family. Circa 1867, he relocated to Washington County, IA. At the age of 36, on Aug. 18, 1874, he wedded Rachel L. Benson (Nov. 17, 1857- ? ). They produced this family of children -- John Leroy Younkin, Elizabeth "May" Younkin, Harvey Clyde Younkin, Belle Younkin and Luella Belle Younkin. After spending a baker's dozen years in Washington County, they pushed again in 1880 to Nodaway Township, Page County, IA, settling on a farm six miles southwest of New Market. The family grieved at the deaths of their young son John Leroy in 1877 and daughter Belle Younken in 1885. At some point they retired and purchased a home in New Market. Amos suffered a debilitating stroke in early 1918. He lingered for six weeks "and has been confined to his bed since that time," said a news obituary. Unable to recover, he died in New Market at the age of 80 on March 22, 1918, with burial in Memory Cemetery. Rev. Douglass officiated at the funeral service held in the local Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1938, his obituary was reprinted in the Younkin Family News Bulletin.

• Granddaughter Elizabeth "May" Younkin (1877- ? ) was born in about 1877 in Washington County. She married (?) Jones ( ? - ? ). She is believed to have died in New Market, IA.

• Younkin Family News Bulletin

  Grandson Harvey Clyde Younkin (1879-1959) was born in Nov. 1879. He wedded Mary A. Dugan (Sept. 18, 1885-1957). The couple's seven children were Bertram "Bert" Younkin, Marie Sutton, Paul Edward Younkin, Max Younkin, Alice Webster, George Amos Younkin and Kenneth Younkin. They relocated from Iowa to South Dakota in 1909 and made a home in the town of Huron, Beadle County, where all of their children were birthed. In the mid-1920s, they gave a mortgage to Huron College for a tract of land in the northwest quarter of Section 12, Township 111, Range 62. When he received an invitation in 1940 to attend the Younkin National Home-coming Reunion in southwestern Pennsylvania, Harvey sent his regrets, writing: "I cannot attend this year but hope to someday. Would like to hear more about the Younkin Association. Do you have a 'Who's Who' of the Younkins? I have never met but four of my father's relatives but am sure there must be hundreds. I am 60 years old, carpenter by occupation. Can send you more information about myself and family if you wish. My present address is at the top of page. Have lived here 31 years." The letter was published in the 1940 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin. Their address in 1952-1953 was 1018 Ohio Avenue Southwest. On New Year's Day 1953, a small fire broke out in their home which was the result of a faulty chimney, but no serious damage was done. Sadly, Mary is believed to have died in December 1957, and on New Year's Eve 1957, the family published a card of thanks in the Huron Daily Plainsman. Harvey died in Huron in late March 1959. His pallbearers, according to the Daily Plainsmen, were O.E. Anderson, Earl Almond, William Ferguson, Iver Benson, James Webster and Paul Webster.

Great-grandson Bertram H. Younkin ( ? -1961) was born on Feb. 13, 1910 in Huron, Beadle County, SD. He moved to Fairmont, MN, where for 18 years he was employed as a movie projector operator. He died in Fairmont on Dec. 8, 1961, with funeral services led by Rev. Cecil Miller and an obituary printed in his old hometown newspaper, the Huron Daily Plainsman. Burial was in Riverside Cemetery (where?).

Great-granddaughter Marie Younkin married Alfred Sutton. Their residence in 1961 was in Wessington and in 1982 in St. Lawrence.

Great-grandson Paul Edward Younkin made his home in 1961 in Great Falls, MT and in 1982 in Huron.

Great-grandson Max Younkin lived in Yankton in 1961 and in Huron in 1982.

Great-granddaughter Alice Younkin wedded Charles Webster and dwelled in Huron.

Great-grandson George Amos Younkin resided in Huron.

Great-grandson and Kenneth J. Younkin (1922-1982) was born on Jan. 24, 1922 in Huron. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, from February 1942 to December 1945. On June 15, 1952, in Huron, he married Helen Evans ( ? - ? ). They were the parents of Vicki Ericsson, Rhonda Sampoll and Crystal Younkin. The couple moved to Belle Fourche, SD, in 1956, where he worked for Newberger Building Materials and then for more than 25 years by Belle Fourche Sawmill. Kenneth died at home on April 11, 1982. Rev. Fred Hallstrom officiated at the funeral, followed by burial in Black Hills National Cemetery. An obituary was printed in the Rapid City (SC) Journal.

• Granddaughter Luella Younkin ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She was joined in marriage with (?) Bix and dwelled in 1918 in Clarinda, IA.

Isaac's and Susan's marriage certificate, 1864

YFNB, April 1938

Son Isaac Younkin (1840-1938) was born on April 21, 1840 in Hancock County, OH. On March 17, 1864, at the age of 23, he was joined in matrimony with 17-year-old Susan Wilson Curry (Oct. 5, 1846-1925), a native of Virginia. Their wedding was held in Morgan County, OH by the hand of Rev. U.L. Jones. (Her maiden name has been misspelled as "Currin.") The couple produced six children -- Francis Ulissus "Frank" Younkin, William O. Younkin, Lewis E. Younkin, Chancey C. Younkin, Della Richards and Ralph B. Younkin. When the federal census enumeration was made in 1870, the Younkins were in Bearfield Township, Perry County, residing next door to Isaac's brother and sister-in-law, Eli and Martha Alcinda (Skinner) Younkin. Isaac's occupation that year was farm laborer.

Sometime between 1876 and 1880, they made the decision to push westward and relocate to Kansas, where they settled in Nessho Township, Coffey County. The United States Census of 1880 shows the family in Neosho, with Isaac continuing his work as a farm laborer. The Younkins moved again prior to 1900 to a farm in Rock Creek Township, Coffey County. In 1900, bachelor sons William (age 33), Lewis (31) and Chauncey (24) helped Isaac on the farm.

The census of 1910 shows Isaac and Susan in Key West Township, Coffey County, with sons William and Chauncey and daughter Della in the household. Again in the 1910s the family moved to a farm in Hampden Township, Coffey County. The 1920 census shows Isaac, Susan and 52-year-old son William, 50-year-old son Lewis and 40-year-old son Chauncy living together on a farm.

YFNB, August 1939

Sadly, Susan died in Halls Summit, KS at the age of 78 on Feb. 21, 1925. Isaac outlived her by a baker's dozen years. He was retired when listed in the 1930 census, still in Hampden Township, with his bachelor sons still in the home. They eventually relocated into the town of Burlington, at a home at South Sixth Street. In March 1938, local real estate dealer William Phillipi "collected money from a number of friends of the family and bought a radio for them," said the Emporia (KS) Gazette. "Isaac Younkin and his two sons, all aged men, live together and have been sick several years. The father is 97 years old, and the sons are more than 70." At 98 years of age in 1938, he was considered the oldest known living Younkin in the United States, and as such, he was pictured and profiled in the April 1938 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin. He also was one of the oldest men in Coffey County. He died in his home on Dec. 19, 1938 at the age of 98 years, seven months and 25 days. Rev. Harry O. Ritter, of the local Methodist Church, led the funeral service, with burial in Graceland Cemetery. His obituary was published in the Aug. 10, 1939 edition of the News Bulletin.

• Grandson Francis Ulissus "Frank" Younkin (1865-1948) was born on Jan. 28, 1865 in Perry County, OH. When his parents and younger siblings migrated to Kansas between 1876 and 1880, Frank joined them in the voyage, although he ultimately returned to Ohio. On Sept. 3, 1890, at the age of 25, he was united in marriage with Harriet Elizabeth Foster (March 26, 1869-1952), a native of Kansas and the daughter of Lewis and Roxania A. (Knapp) Foster. The nuptials were held in Burlington, Coffey County, KS. The Younkins are known to have been in Waverly, KS circa 1891-1896 -- in Tracy, MN in 1902 -- and in Valley City, ND in 1903-1911. Their offspring were Homer Albert Younkin, Clarence Milton Younkin, Earl Orlando Younkin, Walter Erwin Younkin, Raymond Lewis Younkin, Francis Foster Younkin and Everett Edward Younkin. Sadness cascaded over the family in 1911 when youngest son Everett died in infancy while the family was in Enderlin, ND. At some point, Frank and Harriet returned to Ohio. Circa 1938, they resided in Amherst, OH and in about 42 moved to 143 Lincoln Street in Wellington, Lorain County, OH. Suffering from an enlarged heart, difficulty in breathing and paralysis, he underwent surgery to remove his prostate gland. He died in Lodi Hospital on Oct. 29, 1948 at the age of 83. Son Raymond of Wellington signed the Ohio death certificate. Harriet survived her husband by four years. She passed away in Wellington at the age of 83 on Dec. 4, 1952.

Great-grandson Homer Albert Younkin (1891-1964) was born on Aug. 8, 1891 in Waverly, KS. He was twice married. His first bride, whom he wed in March 1913, was Susan Jones ( ? - ? ). His second spouse was Vera L. Smith (July 24, 1902- ? ). Homer passed into eternity at the age of 73 on Oct. 26, 1964.

Great-grandson Clarence Milton Younkin (1893-1942) was born on New Year's Eve 1893 in Waverly, KS. He migrated to Minnesota and set down roots in Paynesville, Stearns County. When he was 20 years of age, in 1914, he was joined in holy wedlock with Otillie Hartman ( ? - ? ), with the nuptials held in Paynesville. Sadly, he died in Paynesville at the age of only 48 on May 19, 1942. On Father's Day 2004, his branch held its seventh annual Minnesota Younkin Reunion. Dee Scott reported at that time that "The family currently has 272 living members on the family tree. About seventy-five attend each year's reunion." The date of the 2019 reunion is Sept. 7, and an updated family history book is in preparation.

Youngest to oldest -- the Clarence Milton Younkin family of Paynesville, MN. L-R: Lois, Kenneth, Robert, Margorie, Luverne, Donald, Dorothy, Herbert, Helen, Vernice, Georgia, Evelyn and Leo.

Y2K family cookbook compiled by Dee Scott

Great-grandson Earl Orlando Younkin (1896-1918) was born on Jan. 26, 1896 in Waverly, KS. His time on earth was relatively short. At the age of 22, he was cut away by the Grim Reaper, while in Livingstone, MT on Oct. 14, 1918.

Great-grandson Walter Erwin Younkin (1902- ? ) was born on Jan. 12, 1902 in Tracy, MN. In Sept. 1923, when he was 21 years of age, he wedded his first wife, Rae Mae ( ? - ? ) in nuptials held in Minneapolis. Then on Feb. 9, 1935, now in Erie, Erie County, PA, he was united in matrimony with Ruth Adelina Gutowski (July 3, 1911- ? ), a native of Lorain, OH. They produced two children -- Walter Erwin Younkin Jr. and Wilda Ruth Younkin.

Great-grandson Raymond Lewis Younkin (1903-1983) was born on Nov. 10, 1903 in Valley City, ND. He waited until middle age to marry. At the age of 41, on May 26, 1945, he was joined in marital union with Carlotta M. Fisher (May 26, 1910-1987). The wedding was held in Wellington, OH, and the couple lived there for many years. Carlotta was carried away by the Angel of Death at the age of 77 on Sept. 29, 1987.

Great-grandson Francis Foster Younkin (1909-1981) was born on Oct. 14, 1909 in Valley City, ND. He wedded local girl Gladys Bushy (Jan. 27, 1911-1978) in Sept. 1935, when he was 25 and she 24. Gladys passed away at the age of 67 on Oct. 9, 1978. Francis outlived her by three years and died in Oct. 1981 at the age of 71.

• Grandson William O. Younkin (1867- ? ) was born on Nov. 14, 1867, presumably in Perry County, OH. He never married. He was a longtime farmer and resided with his father and brothers Lewis and Chauncey in Coffey County, KS.

• Grandson Lewis E. "Lew" Younkin (1869- ? ) was born on Oct. 16, 1869 in Ohio. He was a bachelor and longtime farmer and made a home with his father and brothers William and Chauncey in Coffey County, KS.

• Grandson Chancey C. Younkin (1876-1930) was born o Oct. 16, 1876 in Ohio. As a young boy, he migrated with his parents and older brothers to Kansas. He never married but was a farmer and lived with his parents and bachelor brothers. Circa 1902, he is known to have lived temporarily in Westphalia, KS where he labored on a railroad project, as reported in the gossip columns of the Waverly (KS) Gazette. Then again in June 1915, he and his brother Lewis and friend H.B. Davidson left Burlington "for Western Kansas where they will work in the wheat fields," said the Burlington Daily Republican. Chauncey was cut down by the Grim Reaper at the age of 53 on the Fourth of July 1930 in Burlington.

• Granddaughter Della Younkin (1883- ? ) was born on April 2, 1883 in Nessho Township, Coffey County, KS. She wedded Frank Richards ( ? - ? ). Their only known child was Donald Richards. Della lived in 1938 at 528 Rose Mead Boulevard in Burlington.

• Grandson Ralph B. Younkin (1886-1927) was born on March 3, 1886 in Nessho Township, Coffey County, KS. He wedded Eva May Craig (June 24, 1897-1974), daughter of Robert and Rosa Belle (Adams) Craig and a native of Junction City, Geary County, KS. The two sons born to this union were Ralph Craig Younkin and Donald Robert Younkin. The Younkins moved to Kansas City, Jackson County, MO. Sadly, at the age of 40, Ralph died on Jan. 5, 1927, in Kansas City. Burial was in Mt. Washington Cemetery in Fairmont Station. Eva lived as a widow for almost half a century. She passed into eternity in Kansas City at the age of 76 on Jan. 20, 1974.

Neosho Street looking west, Burlington, Kansas

Son Ephraim P. "E.P." Younkin (1842-1933) was born on Sept. 17, 1842 in Morgan County, OH. After growing to manhood on the family farm, he set his sights westward and made the long trip to Illinois, where he spent 19 months working, and then pushed into Iowa. With three years in the "west" under his belt, he returned to Perry County and spent a year there before establishing a permanent home in Moxahala, Pleasant Township, Perry County. On June 7, 1873, he was united in marriage with 26-year-old Agnes McCall (May 11, 1847-1933), daughter of Matthew and Levina (Gaddis/Geddes) McCall of Morgan County. The Younkins are not known to have reproduced. The federal census of 1880 shows the couple in Morgan County. He was a longtime carpenter and was profiled in the 1883 book History of Fairfield and Perry Counties, Ohio. His final residence was in Malta Township. Morgan County. Both Agnes and Ephraim were burdened with heart valve disease and died within six months of each other. She passed first, on Feb. 6, 1933. Ephraim died in Malta on Aug. 4, 1933 at the age of 90 years, 10 months and 20 days. His remains were interred in Malta. Howard Glass of Malta signed both of their death certificates. Agnes' will left bequests to a host of siblings, nieces and nephews. Four years after Ephraim's passing, he was remembered and named in the obituary of his sister Margaret Black published in the Younkin Family News Bulletin.

Ephraim's profile, 1883 History of Fairfield and Perry Counties, Ohio

YFNB, Christmas 1937

Eli Younkin

Son Eli Younkin (1845-1937) was born on April 21, 1845, a twin with his sister Margaret as the youngest of 14 children.. When he was 21 years of age, immediately after the Civil War ended, Eli found himself in the Deep South in the vicinity of Chapel Hill, NC. What took him there remains a mystery. He later told a newspaper reporter that "reports came by stage coache messages that Lincoln had been shot,... [and] ministers in the vicinity had church bells run and called the people together to pray that Lincoln's life might be spared." He appears to have been thrice married. His first spouse was Ann M. Bailey ( ? - ? ). Their only child was Mary F. Younkin, born in 1867. Ann's precise fate is not known, but she apparently died young. Then at the age of 23, on Jan. 7, 1869, Eli was joined in wedlock with his second bride, Martha Alcinda Skinner (Aug. 22, 1847-1880), daughter of James R. and Catherine (Reid) Skinner of Perry County. The wedding ceremony was held in Salt Lick Township, Perry County. They were the parents of Eva Frances Thompson, William H. Younkin and Edwin Lee Younkin. Grief blanketed the family when sons William (Dec. 13, 1874) and Edwin (July 18, 1878) died in infancy. Further heartache returned when the 32-year-old Martha succumbed in Bearfield Township on April 9, 1880. Her remains were lowered into eternal rest in the soil of Holcomb's Church Cemetery, also known as Fletcher Chapel, two miles northwest of Portersville. Eli mourned for two years and then on March 26, 1882, when he was age 36, he wedded his third bride, Mary L. (Smith) Cooper (Nov. 1855-1928), daughter of Annie E. Smith of Morgan County. Mary had been married once before, to Charles Cooper, and brought a son to the union, Henry J. Cooper. The couple bore another three children of their own -- Carl Younkin, Clarence "Burl" Younkin and Harry Theron Younkin. They lived in the 1920s in the Sayre community near Crooksville. In August 1926, and then again in June 1935, daughter Eva Thompson is known to have traveled from her home in the Iowa City area for extended visits.

Sadly, Mary died in Corning at the age of 72 on July 13, 1928. An obituary published in the Zanesville Times Recorder said that death occurred "following an illness due to complications." Eli survived her by nine years. At his joint birthday with sister Margaret in April 1935, they were pictured together in a feature story in the Cleveland Plain Dealer, with Eli telling the reporter that he "had been sick but once in his life and shops wood every day. 'My wind isn't what it used to be, though,' Younkin admitted. 'I'm not bragginb, but I used to bind all the wheat one man could cradle, while other cradlers had two men behind them. I'm still pretty spry at it'." On New Year's Day 1937, at his home near Corning, Eli succumbed to the grasp of the Angel of Death at the age of 81 years, eight months and 10 days. His remains were lowered into repose in Zion Christian Union Church Cemetery in Porterville, Bearfield Township, with Rev. E.C. McCormick officiating at the funeral sevice. Eli's obituary appeared in the Times Recorder, which noted that he was survived by 11 grandchildren and a dozen great-grandchildren. Because he and his twin sister Margaret were widely considered among the oldest sets of twins in the country, the news of his death was published in a number of Ohio newspapers statewide. The obituary was reprinted in the inaugural edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin, Christmas 1937, and he also was mentioned in the obituary of his sister Margaret Black in the same issue.

• YFNB, August 1939

  Granddaughter Mary F. Younkin (1867- ? ) was born on Nov. 2, 1867 in Deerfield, Morgan County, OH.

• Granddaughter Eva Frances Younkin (1870-1941) was born on Feb. 24, 1870 in Corning, Perry County, OH. As a young woman of 22 or 23, in 1893, she migrated from Ohio to Iowa, the only one of her siblings to do so. At the age of 26, on April 7, 1896, she wedded Iowa native Grant Thompson (July 1865-1930), a native of Louisa County, IA. Their 10 children were Myrtle Schwab, Ruth Schnoebelen, Dorothy Safourek, Elsie Wieland, Maude Cray, Ethel Nicola, Oren Thompson, Lloyd Thompson, Marion Thompson and Harry Thompson. In 1900, the family was enumerated in the federal census as making a home in Highland Township, Washington County, IA, with Grant earning a living as a day laborer. The family's worries when son Harry joined the U.S. Army in World War I were turned to grief when he died in the service. Eva was active as president of the American Legion Auxiliary and a member of theWomen's Society of Christian Servers of the Trinity Methodist Church and a Gold Star Mother. For many years, Grant suffered from diabetes. On the fateful day of April 29, 1930, he traveled into Riverside and then returned to his home south of town. He died suddently that evening while seated in a rocking chair. The widowed Eva made a home on the south side of Riverside, Washington County. She was in active communication with double cousin Charles Arthur Younkin, the secretary of the Younkin National Home-coming Reunion of southwestern Pennsylvania who also published theYounkin Family News Bulletin. In a letter to Younkin National Home-coming Reunion secretary Charles Arthur Younkin, dated Riverside, Aug. 9, 1938, she wrote: We were very sorry that the Mrs. Mamie Prather didn't get to our reunion. We were expecting her. The papers were delivered to different members of the family and some of them seem to wait it but will let you know. We had 117 members with us and a very nice time. We wish some of this crowd could attend your reunion the 21st, but think it will be impossible. I am sending the heads of families as you desired." The letter was published in the Dec. 20, 1938 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin.In the newspaper's Aug. 10, 1939 edition were printed birth announcements for three of her grandchildren -- Lucille Joyce Thompson, Robert Eugene Nicola and Marilee Lynn Cray. Just a few days before her 71st birthday, having been very ill for a week, she passed away as a patient in Mercy Hospital in Iowa City. She was pictured in her obituary printed in the June 30, 1941 edition of the family News Bulletin.

• Grandson Carl C. Younkin (1883-1964) was born in May 1883. He wedded Dorothea Leah Yahn (1896-1944). They had a family of two known sons, Howard Younkin and Russell O. Younkin. He made a residence in 1928 in Sayre near Crooksville, Perry County, OH. Dorothea passed into eternity in 1944 in Crooksville, with burial in the local cemetery. Carl outlived her by two decades. Heartbreak cascaded over his world again in 1945 when son Russell, in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, lost his life while on duty in Manila in the Philippines. Carl lived in 1956 in Corning. Carl died in Crooksville in 1964. In his will, he left his assets to his four grandchildren -- William C. Younkin, Raymond F. Younkin, Bonnie K. Phillips and Nina L. Younkin.

• Grandson Clarence "Burl" Younkin (1886-1957) was born on July 22, 1886. During World War I, he served in the American Expeditionary Force. He never married but spent his long life as a farmer. He dwelled on  a farm near Crooksville and Deavertown. Suffering from a long illness, he was admitted to Bethesda Hospital, where he passed into eternity at the age of 70 on Jan. 21, 1957. The funeral service was led by Rev. J.F. Brown, with interment in the Zion Cemetery near Portersville. An obituary in the Zanesville Times Recorder noted that he was survived by his brothers Carl and Harry and nephew Hayward Younkin of rural Corning.

• Grandson Harry Theron Younkin (1889-1963) was born on May 21, 1889. In 1928, at the age of about 39, he lived with his parents in the Sayre community near Crooksville, Perry County, OH. After his parents both died, he remained in Sayre where he farmed. On June 15, 1945, at the age of 56, he was joined in marriage with Dorothy Marie Longstreth ( ? - ? ), daughter of John R. Longstreth of Deavertown, Morgan County. The wedding was held in Greenup, KY, with Rev. W.H. Muncy of the Methodist church officiating and the ceremony held in the church parsonage. News of their wedding was printed in the Zanesville Times Recorder, which said that "The bride wore a rose crepe dress with white accessories. Following the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Younkin spent a few days with friends in Cincinnati. The groom is a farmer of Sayre." Harry died in Crooksville, Perry County in 1963. A provision in his will stated that if Dorothy preceeded him in death, all of his assets were to be bequeathed to her cousin Nettie Holcomb in Newark, OH.

Margaret and James Black. Courtesy Robert Steele.

Daughter Margaret Younkin (1845-1937) was born on April 21, 1845, a twin with her brother Eli as the youngest of 14 children. She grew up in Bearfield Township, Perry County. During the Civil War, in July 1863, she and her family feared when Confederate troops led by General John Hunt Morgan invaded eastern Ohio, destroying anything in their path. Later in life, she recalled to a news reporter with the Cleveland Plain Dealer that "I was 18 when Morgan's Raiders crossed into Ohio. Don't believe all you hear about how they terrorized everybody. They came right into our farmyard and I went right on with my work. They never bothered me." On July 19, 1866, when she was age 21, Margaret was united in wedlock with James Black (Sept. 18, 1839-1925), the son of James Black. The couple produced 10 children -- Lucetta Black, William Ellsworth Black, Oscar J. "Ott" Black, Jesse Dillon Black, John Iden Black, Calvin William Black, Elmer Ray Black, Frank Black, Charles Black and George Sidney Black. The made a living over the years as farmers. During their child-bearing years, they lived in Sayre, Perry County and at Misco Mine in Morgan County. The family grieved when youngest son George died at the age of 15 years, three months and five days on March 8, 1889. Then in 1901, they relocated to White Cottage, Muskingum County. Sadly, stricken with cancerous tumors known as sarcoma, James died five days before Christmas 1925 at the age of 87. Son John, living in Fultonham, OH, signed the death certificate. Interment was in the Fultonham Cemetery. Margaret survived him by a dozen years as a widow, residing in East Fultonham, Muskingum County. She was injued in a fall in about 1930 and thereafter used a wheelchair to get about. At her joint birthday with brother Eli in April 1935, they were pictured together in a feature story in the Cleveland Plain Dealer. In September 1936, at the age of 91, she received a visit from cousin Marcus W. Younkin from Paris, TN and was photographed by Marcus' wife Azalea. The image is preserved today in the Minerd.com Archives.

Margaret was interested that the extended family history was being re-discovered and that the clan at large was convening each year in Somerset County, PA. Despite being very feeble, Margaret in August 1937 traveled to Kingwood, Somerset County, PA to attend the Younkin National Home-coming Reunion, in company with her sons John, Calvin and William. They first stopped in Charleroi, PA to visit with reunion secretary Charles Arthur Younkin, and then pushed into Somerset County, arriving on the Sunday of the event. Observers said that she was "enjoying good health," and a day or two later made the return trip home. But the long drive must have taken its toll. Six days after her reunion visit, she was stricken while seated in her chair, and she died the next day, Aug. 29, 1937 at the age of 92. Interment was in Fultonham Cemetery. An obituary published in the Younkin Family News Bulletin said she was "the last surviving member of the famous Younkin Twins.... Had she lived until April 21, 1938, she would have been 93 years of age.... Mrs. Black comes from a family of long-lived Younkins...., being a granddaughter of Rudolph "Ralph) Younkin, one of the pioneer Younkins who migrated from Bucks County, Pa., to Somerset County, eventually settling in Ohio."

The year after Margaret's death, her sons Jesse, Calvin, William and Oscar attended the 1938 Younkin Reunion. On their return trip home, they stayed overnight with Nancy (Younkin) Forsythe and her daughter Carmie Earle in Vanderbilt near Connellsville, PA.

Left: Margaret Black, 1936. Right, seated with her family, May 1937, front, L-R: Lucetta Stanbery, Mrs. Frank Younkin, Margaret Black, Patty Younkin. Back, L-R: S.M. Stanbery, Ray Younkin, Jesse Black, John Black, nephew Frank Younkin, Walter Younkin, Owen Stanbery. Courtesy Owen Stanbery.

• YFNB, Christmas 1937

  Granddaughter Lucetta "Cetty" Black (1867-1952) was born on Jan. 20, 1867. On Aug. 22, 1906, she was united in matrimony with Sherman Stanberry ( ? - ? ). The wedding ceremony was held in New Lexington, Perry County. Their only known son was Owen Stanbery. Lucetta passed away on Jan. 13, 1952.

• Grandson William Ellsworth Black (1877-1953) was born on Nov. 18, 1877 in Perry County. At the age of 24, on Jan. 22, 1902, he was joined in wedlock with Carrie Edith Tatman ( ? - ? ). The nuptials were held in Crooksville, Perry County. They were the parents of a daughter, Hilda Mae Steele. In 1937, they made a home in Beloit, OH. William died on June 16, 1953 in Alliance, Stark County.

• Grandson Oscar J. "Ott" Black (1879-1951) was born in 1879. He was in Columbus, Franklin County, OH in 1937. Death swept him away in 1951.

• Grandson Jesse Dillon Black (1882-1962) was born on Feb. 12, 1882 in Misco Mine Terr., Perry County. On Jan. 9, 1910 or Sept. 1, 1910, he married Mary Alice Hooper (Oct. 2, 1889-1980). One daughter was born to this marriage, Evelyn Elmore. He resided in 1937 with his widowed mother in Fultonham. He was cut down by the Grim Reaper on March 22, 1962 in Zanesville. Mary Alice lived for another 17 years and passed into eternity in Zanesville on Jan. 29, 1980.

• Grandson John Iden Black (1887-1959) was born on June 12, 1887. He wedded Gertrude ( ? - ? ). John lived with his widowed mother in Fultonham in 1937. He passed into eternity in 1959.

• Grandson Calvin William Black ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). He was united in wedlock with Julia Hammond ( ? - ? ) and dwelled in Delta, OH. Their offspring were Lois Black, Arthur Black, Phillip Black and Ruth Black.

• Grandson Elmer "Ray" Black (1885-1970) was born on April 13, 1885. His home in 1937 was in Pennsville, OH. Two offspring were born to this marriage -- James Frank Black and Mary Woodyard Black. Elmer died in Pennsville or in Chesterhill, Morgan County, OH in 1970.

• Grandson Frank Black

• Grandson Charles Black

~ Son Henry Younkin ~

Henry Younkin (1795-1877) was born in about 1795.

Henry purchased land in Muskingum County, OH in 1819 with his presumed brother John Younkin.

On Feb. 15, 1821, in nuptials held in Muskingum County by the hand of J. Crooks, the 26-year-old was united in wedlock with Sarah Ann Bartlett ( ? -1846).

The produced six children -- Robert T. Younkin, Hester Anne Boling, Caroline M. Younkin, Charles Henry Younkin, Mary Elizabeth Younkin and one who died unnamed in infancy in 1846. Evidence suggests that another son was Mason Younkin who served in the War with Mexico circa 1846-1848.

Sadness enveloped the family when Sarah Ann died on Aug. 11, 1846 in Zanesville, Muskingum County. Evidence hints that her demise was in childbirth as the couple also lost an unnamed baby that same year.

The widowed Henry traveled to Iowa in 1856 where he was a pioneer of Keokuk.

At some point Henry lived in Chariton, Iowa, where he died at the age of 82 on June 16, 1877.

Son Robert T. Younkin ( ? -1892) was born in Fultonham, Muskingum County. He died in 1892, with burial in Chariton Cemetery.

Sen. Sanford Boling Courtesy Iowa.gov

Daughter Hester Anne Younkin ( ? -1927) was born in (?). In the mid-1850s, she is believed to have migrated with her parents and family to Iowa. On Jan. 17, 1865, in a wedding held in Fairfield, Jefferson County, IA, she married Senator Sanford M. Boling (Dec. 30/31, 1834-1893), a Muskingum County native and the son of William and Julia (Grimsley) Boling. The one known daughter born to this couple was Bessie Millikin. As a boy of 10, Sanford "received his education in the old subscription schools common at that early day and at the age of ten years began working at the plasterers trade with his father," said a profile in the Iowa Official Register. Then after the Civil War broke out, he joined the Union Army in August 1862 and was assigned to the 122nd Ohio Infantry, Company F with the rank of second lieutenant. He then was sent with his men to Virginia and was assigned to fortify the town of Winchester. Unfortunately, he contracted typhoid fever and became nearly blind, and was sent home for medical care. During his time away, his regiment fought at Gettysburg. After making a partial recovery, he rejoined his unit at Martinsburg, WV and "started on the Mine Run campaign, but after marching a time through mud and enduring untold hardships, the project was abandoned," said a biography in an Iowa county history book. He at that time was an acting adjutant and was selected to be detailed to Columbus, OH, where he helped recruit soldiers for duty in the South. He resigned his position on Dec. 30, 1864, and then made an overland trip to Iowa to begin his future with our Hester Anne. Upon his arrival in Fairfield, they were wed. And then, said the Register:

During the first five years after his arrival [in Iowa] he was in the employ of the American Express Company, but his health so failed him that he was compelled to change his occupation and for a time he worked at the plasterer's trade. This was followed by one year spent as a contractor and in January, 1874, he entered upon the duties of the office of Auditor of Jefferson County, in which capacity he served the people acceptably for six years, his worth and ability having been tested and found to be in merit even above what his friends had anticipated. In 1879, he was honored with an election to the State Senate and served in that body during the sessions of 1880 and 1882. In the first Assembly, he was Chairman of the Committee on Penitentiaries, which originated a bill creating the office of warden in the penitentiary at Anamosa. He was the active spirit in securing an amendment to equalize the good time earned by convicts. Up to this time counties could vote on public improvements only at general elections, and as a result when one party championed any public enterprise, the other felt bound to oppose. It thus became difficult for a county even to erect a courthouse, and it was through the instrumentality of Mr. Boling that an amendment was passed permitting such questions to be voted upon either at general or special elections. During the session of 1882, he was Chairman of the Committee on Public Buildings and secured the passage of a bill appropriating a half million to complete the State Capitol. Former appropriations had been so small that they were largely consumed in paying the salaries of those selected to look after their expenditure and in the passage of this bill Mr. Boling performed an important work. Socially, he belonged to the Masonic and Odd-Fellows fraternities and to the Grand Army Post of Fairfield, of which he is a charter member.

Sanford's biography in the Portrait and Biographical Album of Jefferson and Van Buren Counties, Iowa., published in 1890.

In May 1888, Sanford was awarded a military pension as compensation for his wartime injuries. [Invalid App. #653.158 - Cert. #464.339]. In 1890, he was featured in a lengthy profile in the Portrait and Biographical Album of Jefferson and Van Buren Counties, Iowa, published by Lake City Publishing Company of Chicago. Sanford was in ill health circa 1892 and had to leave his job as an agent with the United States Express Company. Family friend Rev. E.L. Schreiner observed that the patient "has been a patient, quiet sufferer, anticipating all the time the probability that he might not recover." As reported in the Weekly Journal, Sanford confided to Schreiner that:

...during his life he had been troubled with doubts and had been skeptical about Christian religion, but since his sickness he had reviewed the whole ground, and fel that he could not set up his reason and judgement against God, and his Word, and he had come to a cordial acceptance of them, and he desired to yield to every requirement that God made of him, asking me to read from the Bible and pray with him. "I returned in a few days and during this and subsequent inter views he made a complete surrender of himself to God and case himself on the mercy of Christ, and soon found peace in believing. Shortly after this he united at his own request, with the Church, and with a few intimate friends received the sacrament of the Lords supper, manifestly discerening by faith the shed blood and broken body of Christ, his only hope. From this time on his progress in spiritual discernment was great and rapid. On my return from Conference while with him one day, when he had so declined in strength that he could only speak in a whisper, he took my hand and drawing me close to him, he said "the doctor has just told me that there is no possible chance for me to get well, and I want to say that it is all right. I am perfectly happy! happy, Glory to God."

William Scott Millikin's obituary, 1904

Sanford passed away on Oct. 18, 1893 in Fairfield. An obituary printed in the Weekly Journal said that the funeral was held in the Boling home. "There was a good attendance of friends of the family. The service was impressively conducted by Rev. E.L. Schreiner of the M.E. Church." The following day, his remains were taken by his fellow friends to the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad depot for transport to Chariton for burial. Pallbearers included T.F. Higley and W.H. Neibert from the Masons, Robert Israel and John W. Quillan from the Odd Fellows and Thomas Bell and Charles Gift from the GAR. After Sanford's death, Hester Anne was awarded her husband's pension and received monthly government checks for the rest of her life. [Widow App. #589.593 - Cert. #428.441]. Hester Anne passed away in Chariton, Lucas County, IA in 1927. Her obituary appeared in the Ledger.

• Granddaughter Bessie Boling (1865?- ? ) was born in about 1865 in Fairfield, Jefferson County, IA. On March 12, 1890, she married civil engineer William Scott Millikin (1864-1904), son of John C. and Elizabeth (Evans) Millikin of Washington County, PA who had migrated to Iowa in about 1873. The nuptials were led by Rev. J. Hochuly of the Episcopal Church. The Millikens did not reproduce. They lived in Fairfield, Jefferson County. In 1893, at the death of her father, Bessie was so ill and bedfast that she could not attend the funeral and out-of-town burial. Reported a newspaper in 1904, "For sometime past he has been located at Houston, Texas, where he was chief engineer for the Bonham & McKinney Electric railway. He also had an office there from which he conducted a large amount of work for his services were always in great demand." His brother joined the consulting business in late summer of 1904. William suffered a stroke and died a few days later on Nov. 13, 1904. His remains were shipped to Fairfield to lie in repose in Evergreen Cemetery, with Rev. Alex Corkey officiating at the funeral service.

Daughter Caroline M. Younkin ( ? -1890) was born in (?). The Angel of Death carried her away in about 1890 in Chariton, Lucas County, IA.

Son Charles Henry Younkin (1836-1922) was born on June 22, 1836 in Fultonham, Muskingum County. He migrated to Iowa in 1859 when he was 23 years of age and settled first in Toledo, Tama County. He was married three times. His first bride was Matilda McKinnis (1843-1868). They produced two sons, Claude H. Younkin and Charles Younkin. Sadness enveloped the young family when Matilda died at the age of 24 on March 16, 1868 in Chariton, Lucas County, IA. Within a short time, he wed again to Emily ( ? - ? ). The Grim Reaper of Death took her away quickly, at the age of 18, on Feb. 1, 1870, in Chariton. He spent three years grieving before marrying again. On Oct. 27, 1873, at the age of 37, he was united in wedlock with his third wife, Nancy Ann Newcomer (Jan. 29, 1855-1923), a native of Connellsville, Fayette County, PA and the daughter of (?) and Martha (Galley) Newcomer. The couple's nuptials were held in Toledo, Tama County, IA. Their children were Lloyd A. Younkin, Frank B. Younkin and Marcus Warland Younkin. The family relocated to Ottumwa in 1899 and were members of the Ottumwa Methodist Church. He also belonged to the Masons and Knights Templar. Then in 1913, he became a partner in Younkin Bros. business located at 306 East Main Street, which is believed also to have been known as the Younkin News Agency. Their home in the early 1920s was 415 East Fourth Street. Suffering from coronary heart disease, known as "angina pectoris," Charles died on the next-to-last day of 1922, with burial in Ottumwa Cemetery. Nancy Ann only lived for a little more than a month. She was stricken with cardiac asthma and passed away on Feb. 7 or 9, 1923. In the early 1990s, Loretta (Adams) Kelldorf, of the family of Col. John C. Younkin, photographed the Younkin graves.

• Grandson Claude H. Younkin (1862? - ? ) was born in about 1862. Circa 1922-1923, he dwelled in Ottumwa.

• Letter from Marcus Younkin to Otto Younkin, 1936

  Grandson Charles Younkin ( ? - ? )

• Grandson Marcus Warland Younkin (1874-1955) was born on Oct. 3, 1874 in Iowa. On Christmas Eve 1895, in Chariton, Lucas County, IA, he was married to Anna "Azalea" Adams (Jan. 13, 1874-1957). Their only child was Margaret Thompson. As an adult, the Younkins resided in Nashville circa 1912 and in Paris, TN in the 1930s. Marcus was employed over the years with Kentucky-Tennessee Clay Company. In September 1936, they traveled to Ohio where they visited 91-year-old cousin Margaret (Younkin) Black, and Azalea took a photograph portrait. Upon arriving home, he sent a letter reporting his travels and discoveries to Otto Roosevelt Younkin, of Masontown, PA, president of the Younkin National Home-coming Reunion. Then in 1938, they took a driving tour of Pennsylvania and New England, with a stop to tour the Gettysburg battlefield and attending the Younkin reunion. In June 1941, they took another driving vacation and spent time visiting with reunion president Otto Roosevelt Younkin in Masontown, PA. Marcus died on July 11, 1955. Azalea outlived him by nearly two years and passed into eternity in Paris on July 1, 1957. Daughter Margaret (1912- ? ) married Lorenzo Dare Thompson and in October 1992 corresponded about Younkin genealogy with Laurel Posey of the family of Col. John C. Younkin.

• Grandson Dr. Lloyd Albert Younkin (1884-1969) was born on May 9, 1884. He never married. He was a chiropractor and made a home in 1922 in Ottumwa. He was fascinated with the Younkin genealogical research and reunion initiatives of the 1930s. On July 21, 1937, he authored a letter to the secretary of the Younkin National Home-coming Reunion which was published under the headline "Ottumwa Note" in the inaugural 1937 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin:

Father has often told me that our family emigrated from Germany -- some going to Ohio -- some to Pennsylvania and others to Virginia -- and that the name was spelled Jounkin or some such wording. Too bad he is not now living -- what a "kick" he would get out of all this -- as well as his Sisters -- if they were living today. All his family was born at Fultonham, Ohio -- close to Zanesville. They left for Iowa about 1856 -- Grandfather Younkin, Father and his brother Robert, and sisters Hester Anne, Mary Elizabeth, and Caroline. Those left behind were the Mother, who died in 1846 -- also another Sister -- both are buried at Zanesville. They probably came down the Ohio River to Cairo, Illinois, where the Mississippi meets it, then came up the latter to Keokuk, Iowa, for I have pictures taken of Grandfather Younkin in this town. Grandfather Younkin died in 1878 (name Henry) and is buried at Chariton, Iowa. My father died in 1923 and is buried here, his 3 sisters spoken of, Caroline, passed in about 1890; Mary Elizabeth in 1922 and Hester Anne in 1927 -- they are all buried at Chariton, Iowa, and brother Robert died about 1892 -- buried at Chariton also.

It might prove interesting reading to other members how we Younkins' of Iowa came to know of "The Younkin Family Asslciation," for had not heard of it previous to 1935. In the local Daily in April, 1935, appeared 2 cuts of Twins (brother and sister), named Eli and Margaret Younkin Black -- aged 90, at that time -- living in Zanesville, Ohio -- or close by. A letter was written and found out that their father and the writer's grandfather were brothers -- a pleasant correspondence has been carried on since -- tho Eli Younkin passed on in January, 1937. I have the picture of Margaret Younkin Black, taken by my brother, Marcus W. Younkin, and his wife, when they visited Mrs. Black in September, 1936 -- whe must be a wonderfully fine lady -- from this picture -- which has Whistler's "Mother" beat all hollow. The only ones left of this branch of the Iowa Younkin's -- are my brother, Mr. M.W. and daughter Margaret of Paris, Tenn., my nephew, Mr. Charles N. and his sister, Martha Eloise and the writer -- too bad -- it was a large family back in Ohio -- my twin brother (father of Charles and Martha), Frank B., died in 1923. He was captain of the local "G" Company of the 168th regiment infantry, 42 division (Rainbows) during the World War.

He lived to the age of 85 and died in Bettendorf, IA on Aug. 13, 1969.

• Frank's prominent obituary, 1923

  Grandson Frank B. Younkin (1884-1923) was born on May 9, 1884 in Chariton, IA. He moved to Ottumwa with his parents and family in 1899, when he was age 15. He joined the Iowa National Guard in 1903. On May 22, 1906, in Ottumwa, IA, the 23-year-old Frank was united in matrimony with 25-year-old Ella Cain (April 25, 1881-1959), daughter of Charles Cain of Cedar Rapids, IA. Rev. Henry W. Hargett, of the First Methodist Episcopal Church, officiated. They bore two known children, Charles Newcomer Younkin and Martha Eloise Watson. During World War I, Frank served as company commander of the 168th Iowa Infantry, seeing action in Belgium and France. While in battle in the woods north of Chateau Thierry, he was wounded by shrapnel in the right wrist, left foot and left shoulder and slightly gassed as well on July 26, 1918. A profile of Frank in the Annals of Iowa said that he also "saw service in the Champaign area, the St. Mihiel district, the Argonne forest, and was with the army of occupation in Germany." After returning home, Frank and his brother Lloyd earned a living as proprietors of Younkin Bros., a news agency and cigar store. Their address in the early 1920s was 756 North Green Street. With Frank suffering from acute pneumonia, he was admitted to St. Joseph Hospital, where he underwent surgery for intestinal problems. He did not recover, and the Angel of Death cut him away on March 24, 1923. Funeral services were held in the First Methodist Church, with Rev. Leonard A. Swisher in charge. Hymns sung included "It Is Well With My Soul," "When Life's Work Is Ended" and "Nearer, Still Nearer." The sermon was based on 2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Pallbearers were fellow American Legion members William M. Osler, William H. Scott, Dr. L.A. Hammer, W.C. Wyman, Henry Blizzard and H.G. Barnard. Honorary pallbearers included Iowa Auditor of State Col. Glenn C. Haynes, Adjustant General Lasher, Col. Claude M. Stanley, Lieut. Maurice DaBoer, C.G. Merrill of the local Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce President E.G. Emery. In reporting on the funeral, a local newspaper said that "The city of Ottumwa paused for an hour this afternoon to pay tribute to one of its best known and beloved men -- Frank B. Younkin, who led the local infnatry company through the world war. Flags were at half mast all over the city, and by the mayor's proclamation, business houses, professional and industrial activities through the municipality's length and breadth ceased out of respect to the war hero and peace time community worker." Ella lived for another 36 years, including the last eight with her son. Burdend with hardening of the heart arteries, she died in Des Moines' Lutheran Hospital on March 15, 1959. Burial was in Ottumwa Cemetery, with Rev. H. Vance Laird of the Unity Lutheran Church officiating. Their son Charles made his home at 3257 Indianapolis Avenue in Des Moines, while daughter Martha lived in California in 1959. Frank is named in volume 1 of John Huddleston Taber's 1925 book The Story of the 168th Infantry and in the 1923 book Ottumwa Yesterday and Today.

Frank's biography in the 1923-1925 Annals of Iowa, Vol. 14, 3rd Series.

Daughter Mary Elizabeth Younkin (1838-1922) was born in June 1840 in Fultonham, Muskingum County. She died in Chariton, Lucas County, IA in 1922.

~ Son Jacob Younkin ~

Jacob Younkin (1796- ? ) was born on April 6, 1796 in Bedminster Township, Bucks County. He was christened in Keller's Lutheran Church on June 16 of the year of his birth, with Jacob Hockman serving as sponsor of the baptism.

Nothing more is known.

Samuel and Catherine (Godlove) Younkin Courtesy Alice A. Younkin, Glendale, AZ

~ Son Samuel Younkin ~

Samuel Younkin (1798-1895) was born on Sept. or Nov. 2, 1798 in Harper's Ferry, Jefferson County, VA (in what today is West Virginia). At the age of about seven months, on March 31, 1799, he was baptized in the Reformed Church of Loudoun County. His uncle and aunt, Johannes "John" and Catharina (Dorscheimer) Junghen were the baby's sponsors.

At the age of 17, in about 1816, he moved with his family into Ohio.

He and his brother John are considered among the earliest settlers near Porterville, Bearfield Township, Perry County, OH, with John coming there in about 1817. Samuel was an early teacher there as acknowledged in the book History of Fairfield and Perry Counties, Ohio, Their Past and Present. He also learned the trade of tailoring.

On Oct. 3, 1822, in Perry County, Samuel was joined in holy matrimony with Catherine Godlove (March 3, 1797/1803- ? ), daughter of John Godlove. Rev. Allen Goff performed the nuptials..

They were the parents of 11 known offspring -- Joseph Younkin, Mary A. Tener, Henry A. Younkin, Abner Younkin, Elizabeth Iden, Nancy Younkin, William Younkin, Margaret Younkin, John Franklin Younkin, Samuel Younkin and Dr. George Wesley Younkin.

History of Washington County, Iowa

The couple made a home in Bearfield Township, Perry County, where Samuel "cleared up two large farms," said an 1887 history book of Washington County. "He was an official of his township from the earliest recollection of [his son Henry] and taught school before, and for many years after his marriage was engaged in that profession. His wife was a great weaver, and to this day has one of the old style looms in her house, and her nimble fingers yet fashion the stripes in homewoven carpets, and the click-clack of the flying shuttle is heard inthe old farm house where they have lived so many years. Samuel, too, understood weaving well, and in the early days wove large quantities of woolen goods, but as a weaver his crowning glory consisted in the manufacture of those old coverlets which will last a lifetime."

They kept a family Bible printed in the German language, and inscribed in writing a record of births, marriages and deaths. The Bible was said to have been loaned to a friend who could only read in German, and that her house burned, consuming the Bible in the flames. The Younkins then acquired an English Bible and the family records were transferred therein. As the names and dates were being rewritten, Catherine thought them placed a year earlier than they actually occurred. In fact, an analysis of the material shows "Nov. 2" as the date of birth for Samuel and children Mary, Henry and Abner, which seems questionable, and may have been a guess on the family's part without the original record with which to compare.

Samuel was sued by the State of Ohio on behalf of Bearfield Township for the March Term 1844. John Godlove and Jeremiah Godlove provided bail. He was found guilty and ordered to pay $67.71 in damages. The payment was made on Dec. 15, 1845, by the hand of John Younkin.

In 1844, after 28 years in Ohio, when Samuel was age 46 and Catherine 47, they migrated to Iowa. They lived for awhile in Keokuk and later put down roots in Riverside, Washington County. He went on to acquire an 80-acre tract of land in Iowa Township and paid $400 to Nixon Scott for a claim which he later bought as well. Said the 1887 history, "A little round log cabin with a clapboard roof stood upon the eighty-acre tract, and into this the family moved." Son Henry, a boy of about 17, recalled that  "The eaves were not over five feet high, and we had to stoop to get in at the door."

A sod house addition was built at once, and in this the family passed a fairly comfortable winter. The second winter was passed in a nice double-log cabin, covered with a shingle root, and this was for many years known as "Younkin's Hotel;" the stage line from Iowa City to Fairfield passed this pioneer inn, and a post office w3as established there in 1856, with Samuel Younkin as Postmaster. The "Younkin Hotel" was a stage office, and frequently three or four stages would stop at one time. The hotel did quite a large transient trade for many years, and the post-office was continued until 1859. The old military road was a meandering one, and in fact passed many of the houses in the new country. Nathaniel McClure, a wealthy man who resided within what is now the limits of Riverside, concluded to open a hotel, and to make it profitable, petitioned the State Legislature to have the old military road resurveyed, and the bill was passed, which authorized the line from Keokuk to Dubuque to be opened and bridged at the expense of the State. This practically stopped traffic on the oldline, and the "Younkin Hotel" was discontinued. McClure's inn flourished a short time, until railroads put an end to stage travel. Samuel Younkin would not accept any official position after coming to Washington County, and his whole life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits, in which he and his children have been remarkably successful.

When Samuel was profiled in the 1880 book History of Washington County, Iowa, the narrative said that he "owns 305 acres of land, most of which he entered; his land is well improved, has a good house and barn besides a good bearing orchard." They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the Riverside community.

YFNB, April 1938

The family grieved when son Samuel Younkin died at the age of about nine or 10 in 1851. Heartache cascaded over the family when married daughters Elizabeth Iden (1862) and Margaret Tansey (1863) died untimely deaths.

In 1887, the couple received significant amounts of ink in a profile of their son Henry, the Portrait and Biographical Album of Washington County, Iowa. The biography said that they were the "oldest couple in Iowa Township. They have long since passed their golden wedding anniversary, but to-day at their advanced age, he in his eighty-ninth, and she in her eighty-fifty year, their health is remarkably good, and both do as much work upon the farm as almost any couple in the neighborhood. The longevity of the family is also remarkable, eighty odd years being the average; some of them have reached the advanced age of one hundred, and Samuel and his wife bid fair to reach that ripe old age. They are both of German origin, born in Virginia, and their marriage was celebrated in Perry County, Ohio...."

As he neard his 90s, Samuel continued to weave coverlets as gifts for his children and grandchildren and in total made about 53. He once showed one of these creations to a visitor, who responded that "to say that no present couild be more highly esteemed, would hardly express their sentiments."

Samuel was gathered in by the Angel of Death on July 15, 1895 at the age of about 91. Nearly a half century after his death, Samuel was profiled in the article "Younkins of the 4th Generation" in the April 30, 1938 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin.

Catherine survived as a widow for another year. She passed away in Riverside on July 15, 1896 at the age of 93.

Samuel E. and Gelissa Mary Ann Allin

Son Joseph Younkin (1823-1891) was born on July 5, 1823 in Ohio. He migrated to Iowa as a bachelor in 1844. Then on Nov. 14, 1849, the 26-year-old Joseph was united in holy matrimony with 24-year-old Eliza Jane Iden (Nov. 10, 1825-1908), a native of Virginia, and the daughter of Alfred and Mary Ann (Bell) Iden. When Eliza Jane was six years old, she moved with her parents into Ohio and then in 1846, at the age of 20, migrated with them to Iowa, settling in Iowa Township, Washington County. Upon arrival, said the Davenport Quad-City Times, Joseph "purchased land from the government at $1.25 an acre." In all, he acquired an 80-acre tract which stayed in the family until 1962. The Younkins bore at least seven children -- Gelissa Mary Ann Allin, Laura Smith, Samuel E. Younkin, Elsie May Allin, Alfred H. Younkin, John H. Younkin and J. Morris Younkin. The family made its longtime home near Davenport and belonged to the local Methodist Episcopal Church, with Eliza Jane's membership lasting for 65 years. When the No. 1 School District was formed in Iowa Township near Riverside, Joseph was elected secretary and served until retirement in 1888, at which time his son John succeeded him. "The district is usually known as the 'Y,' because it is located near the 'Y' formed by the Rock Island Lines," said the Times. "The first school building, a log structure, was erected a mile west of the present building, two miles east of Riverside." On the fateful day of Feb. 12, 1891, while working on a roof, Joseph fell and was badly injured, dislocating the shoulder and breaking the blade. He suffered for five days before death mercifully carried him away on Feb. 17, 1891, at the age of 67 years. An obituary was printed in a Washington County newspaper. Eliza Jane outlived her spouse by 16 years. At the age of 82, while at the home of her son A.H. in Riverside, she passed into eternity on July 26, 1908. An obituary was printed in the Iowa City Press-Citizen, which reported that "Her pastor, Rev. H.F. Pugh conducted the funeral services on Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 after which her body was placed beside her husband in our beautiful cemetery." Pallbearers were W.G. Cress, William Tener, B.J. Godlove, B.F. Flynn, A.D. Craig and George Craig. A printed eulogy said that "For nearly sixty-five years she has endeavored to live and walk in the way of the better life. Her life has been fruitful of good results. She was a loving and dutiful companion, a kind and indulgent mother and a good neighbor and citizen. She has answered the summons of Hkim who said, 'Be though faithul unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life'."

Great-granddaughter May Allin ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She married (?) Brownfield and lived in Los Angeles. Their two known children were Violet Esterman and Allen Harry Brownfield. Violet is believed to have attended the 1991 Younkin Reunion-East. Allen (Nov. 2, 1904-1992), a native of Los Angeles, was a longtime supervising structural engineer employed by the State of California. Said a newspaper, he "was intrinsically involved with the construction of the San Francisco Bay Bridge." He also was a member of several professional associations. He died in Sacramento on Sept. 10, 1992. Burial was in East Lawn Memorial Park in Sacramento, with services led by Rev. Dr. Maurice Marcus, of the Fremont Presbyterian Church.

San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, opened Nov. 12, 1936, for which Allen Brownfield was a supervising structural engineer. Considered a triumph of modern engineering, the double-deck bridge is 4.46 miles in length. and carries Interstate 80 with daily traffic of about 260,000 vehicles.

• Granddaughter Laura Younkin ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). In Johnson County, IA, on Christmas Day 1885, she was joined in marital union with Harry Lyle Smith (April 27, 1864-1945) of Riverside. They produced two children, a son who died in infancy and a daughter who married Thomas Darnell. The Smiths resided in Iowa City and Des Moines, IA and in 1913 moved to Texas, where they made a home in Plainview for many years. Harry in his prime was considered by Littlefield community as "one of its most prominent citizens." Said a newspaper, "He came to Littlefield to sell land, and was connected in the sale of farms and real estate with the late Senator A.P. Duggan for a number of years. He also farmed on Oklahoma Avenue a number of years, which farm he owned at his death." The family were members of the First Methodist Church, and Harry belonged to the Masons. They left the farm and moved into Littlefield, TX in about 1943. After a long heart illness, Harry died at the age of 81 on Jan. 12, 1945. Rev. C. Frank York of the family church preached the funeral sermon. His remains were shipped to Riverside, IA, where the Masons held additional rites. Laura then sold their property and moved into the home of her married daughter in South Bend, IN.

• YFNB, April 1938

  Grandson Samuel Edward Younkin (1853- ? ) was born on March 29, 1853 near Riverside, Washington County, IA. On Dec. 14, 1886, at the age of about 33, he wedded his childhood friend Alice McKnight (1863- ? ), daughter of James and Margaret Elisabeth (Posten) McKnight. The nuptials were held in the home of his sister Mrs. J.H. Parnham. Alice was a native of Fayette City, Fayette County, PA, who, after the accidental death of her father, had migrated with her mother to Riverside at the age of 11, in about 1874. Alice's mother earned a living as a seamstress while Alice was hired out as a type of nanny for the family of W.H. Cress. Samuel and Alice did not reproduce but, said the Cedar Rapids Gazette, "Mrs. Younkin is thoroughly familiar with rearing a family as the Cress' had nine children and Mrs. Younkin as a girl assisted Mrs. Cress in their care." The newlyweds first tried their luck in California. They spent two years on the west coast but eventually returned to Iowa and put down permanent roots. Samuel initially obtained work building bridges for Washington County, IA. Then in 1894, he joined the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad and was employed there for 32 years as Rock Island Bridge foreman. Reported the Gazette, "Mr. Younkin had a part in the construction of the Rock Island bridge over the Cedar river and also the bridge over the Cedar at Linn which the bridge builders had to be constantly repaired and Mr. Younkin recalled one job on which the bridge builders had to work with the mercury skidding to 36 below! Steel structures have done away with much of the old-time repair work," he said. After retirement, in about 1901, the couple moved from Riverside to Cedar Rapids, IA, with an address of 1224 Sixth Avenue Southeast. They enjoyed spending their winters in California and by the mid-1930s had been on the west coast eight times. "As there were no streamline trains, it required five days and nights to make the trip," said the Gazette. "Both Mr. and Mrs. Younkin are active for their years and are thoroughly modern in their tastes and ideas." Samuel belonged to the Knights of Pythias and was involved in the lodge even in his later years. Alice was an active volunteer with St. Paul's Methodist Church and a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Pythian Sisters and the Ladies Auxiliary of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. When Samuel and Alice celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in December 1936, in their home, a story was printed in the Davenport Quad-City Times. He was pictured and profiled on the front page of the Younkin Family News Bulletin edition of Aug. 5, 1938. He passed away at the age of 89 on Feb. 12, 1943. His remains were interred in Riverside Cemetery. The widowed Mary Alice survived her husband by seven-plus years. She was carried away by the Angel of Death at the age of 86 on June 15, 1950.

News feature about Samuel E. and Alice Younkin's 50th wedding anniversary

• Granddaughter Elsie May Younkin (1855-1940) -- also spelled "Elcy" -- was born on May 28, 1855 in Riverside. On Aug. 31, 1870, she was united in matrimony with Jabez Wesley "Jabe" Allin (1855-1932). The couple produced six known children -- William Joseph Allin, Jessie May Bacon Pedley, John Herbert Allin, Florence Letitia Parker, Velma Allin and George Donald Allin. he couple in March 1884 relocated to Southern California and were considered pioneers of the city of Pasadena. They belonged to the Lincoln Avenue Methodist Church and lived at 609 North Orange Grove Avenue. Sadly, their daughter Velma died in infancy in Pasadena in 1889. Their nephew T.D. Allin was a well known authority on the early history of Pasadena. Elsie May died in Pasadena on Jan. 31, 1940. Her obituary was printed in the Sept. 25, 1940 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin.

Great-grandson William Joseph Allin (1880-1941) was born on July 1, 1880 in Riverside. He married Adella Mary Williams on July 23, 1903 in nuptials held in Highland Park, CA. He resided in Porterville, Tulare County, CA and died there on Aug. 20, 1941.

Great-granddaughter Jessie May Allin (1882-1971) was born on April 16, 1882. She was twice married. Her first spouse was Claude B. Bacon, and they made a home in Pasadena. She later wedded George Pedley. She passed into eternity on June 12, 1971.

Great-grandson John Herbert Allin (1884- ? ) was born on Oct. 4, 1884. He wedded Jennie Johnston ( ? - ? ). was employed as Pasadena Deputy City Engineer in 1940.

Great-granddaughter Florence Letitia Allin (1887-1913) was born on Sept. 30, 1887 in Pasadena. In June 1912, she was joined in marriage with Walter D. Parker.

Great-grandson George Donald Allin (1893-1950) was born on July 3, 1893. On June 23, 1933, he was united in wedlock with Ruth Branson. They dwelled in Pasadena. George was swept away by the Angel of Death on Oct. 25, 1950.

• Grandson Alfred H. Younkin (1857- ? ) was born in about 1857. He was joined in wedlock with Louisa Godlove ( ? - ? ). They bore these children -- Joseph Omar Younkin and Velma J. Whitlock. Alfred made his home in Riverside, IA for many years. He died in Riverside in 1957 at the age of about 100, with interment in Riverside Cemetery.

Great-grandson Joseph Omar Younkin

Great-granddaughter Velma J. Younkin (1897- ? ) was born on July 27, 1897. On Feb. 24, 1925, she was married to Cloyd Ernest Whitlock (Dec. 19, 1897- ? ), son of Charles Wesley and Nancy A. (Green) Whitlock of Riverside. Cloyd was employed over the years as a trucker and mechanic, making a home in Riverside. Their five children were were Donna Grace Whiting, Daris Whitlock, Doran Whitlock, Velma Whitlock and Cloyd Whitlock.

• John H. Younkin's obituary

  Grandson John H. Younkin (1859-1940) was born on July 30, 1859 on his father's farm east of Riverside, and spent his entire life on that farm. At the age of 41, on Dec. 5, 1900, John was united in marriage with Anna E. Ford (1882- ? ). The bride was 23 years younger than the groom. Their family of children were Everett L. Younkin, Verne Younkin, Allan L. Younkin, Harold Younkin and Glenn Archie Younkin. When John was 29 years of age, in about 1888, his father retired as secretary of the local school board for the No. 1 School District in Iowa Township near Riverside, and John became his successor. Remarkably, he held that position for half a century, retiring in July 1938. An article about John's school board retirement in the Davenport Quad-City Times said that for 90 years, "the secretary of the district has been a member of the Younkin family.... It is doubtful if this record of a father and son holding the same school office over a period of nearly a century is equalled anywhere in the United States." He was pictured in another related story in the Times on July 31, 1928, which noted that "Mr. Younkin's oldest record book is the attendance book of 1875 when T.J. Palmer was instructor of the rural school. Two of the students were 21 years old and W.T. Coe, now an attorney in Minneapolis, was the youngest scholar, being five years old." John died at the age of 80 on April 1, 1940. Anna remained on the farm until 1962, when she sold the tract to Charles Strabala. She served as secretary of the Iowa state branch of the Younkin Family Association circa 1938. In a letter to Younkin National Home-coming Reunion secretary Charles Arthur Younkin, dated Riverside, Aug. 9, 1938, she wrote: We were very sorry that the Mrs. Mamie Prather didn't get to our reunion. We were expecting her. The papers were delivered to different members of the family and some of them seem to wait it but will let you know. We had 117 members with us and a very nice time. We wish some of this crowd could attend your reunion the 21st, but think it will be impossible. I am sending the heads of families as you desired." The letter was published in the Dec. 20, 1938 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin. On Aug. 4, 1940, Anna helped organize the 13th Annual Iowa Reunion of the Younkin and Godlove families, held at City Park, with an attendance of 110 relatives and friends. Maggie Cress of Cedar Rapids was elected president; Wil Sims of Riverside vice president; Anna as secretary; Mary Sallady of Washington treasurer. Plans swere made to hold the 14th reunion at Lone Tree Park on Aug. 10, 1941. In another letter dated Oct. 31, 1940, she wrote: "Everything is fine in your little paper and every item should be read and taken to heart. The Younkin Family sure are a long life people. Uncle George Younkin of Mason City is OK as far as we know. Was sorry not to see in print an account of our reunion of Aug. 4th. I suppose during your sickness it was mislaid. Better luck next time. I gave a birthday party for my boy Glenn who was 27 years old Oct. 22nd. Corn husking is the chief occupation at present, and Iowa came in 2nd for the National corn husking contest at Davenport. Iowa is where the tall corn grows."

Invitation to the 1941 Iowa Reunion of the Younkin/Godlove families

• Granddaughter (?) Younkin ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She married J.H. Parnham ( ? - ? ). Nothing more is known.

• Grandson J. "Morris" Younkin (1863- ? ) was born in Aug. 1863. He wedded Maud (1873- ? ). They initially made a home near Riverside. By 1940, he was in Eugene, OR.

Daughter Mary A. Younkin (1825-1916) was born on Nov. 2, 1825 near Zanesville, Muskingum County, OH. She was about 19 years old when she and her family settled in Iowa, coming "in a covered wagon, before Iowa was a state," said a newspaper. On St. Patrick's Day 1846, the 20-year-old Mary was joined in matrimony with Frederick "Fred" Tener (March 10, 1814-1897), also known as "Ferdinand," a resident of Washington County but a native of Carroll County, MD. The couple bore four known children -- William Tener, Kate Tener, Huldah Jane "Jennie" Kaye and John W. Tener as well as Mrs. Tim Sim and Mrs. Charles Wood. Sadly, at the age of 83, Fred died in Riverside on June 18, 1897. Mary lived for another 18 years and succumbed to la grippe at the age of 91 on Jan. 14, 1916. Her remains were placed into eternal repose in the Catholic Church Cemetery in Riverside.

• Grandson William M. Tener (1853-1949) was born in 1853. After the death of their father, William and his brother John purchased the family's 300-acre farm, one mile east of Riverside, for $100 per acre. He made a longtime home in Riverside and in 1921 was elected president of the Riverside Bank. He died in 1949 at the age of about 95 or 96 and rests in Riverside Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Catherine "Kate" Tener (1849-1936) was born on May 1, 1849 in Iowa. She was joined in marriage with widower Carlton Pierce Schell (April 14, 1852-1929). Carlton had been married once before, to Sarah M. Hay (1856-1880), and brought two sons to the second union, Alvin Ailer Schell and Clarence Edward Schell. They relocated to Kansas and in the 1920s and '30s made a home in Iola, Allen County. Carlton died in Iola at age 77 on Nov. 5, 1929. At the age of 86, she died on Jan. 26, 1936. She rests in the mausoleum of Oak Hill Cemetery in Lawrence, Douglas County, KS.

• Granddaughter Huldah Jane "Jennie" Tener (1860- ? ) was born in 1860. In 1888, she married George D. Kaye (1861-1939). Their children were Mrs. Earl Farmer, George T. Kaye and Helen Rowher. They lived in Boulder, CO. Jennie wrote several letters to the editor of the Younkin Family News Bulletin which were printed in the 1940 and 1941 editions. One of the letters noted that she was "anxiously awaiting my copy of the F.N.B. I feel I could hardly spare the price of the complete set of back numbers. In these days of uncertainty I find it necessary to watch. By my son from Alliance Nebr., came to visit me and when he got into the meaning of it all, and became very much interested, so handed me a dollar bill to send for the complete set of back numbers, and I am delighted to think they will soon come to me. When he met Dr. Noble Younkin at Indianapolis this summer and was invited to go to the reunion, it did not come to him that he belonged to the clan, and was very much chagrined when he found out, or rather it came to him, that he did, for he found the doctor to be a fine fellow. All my friends to whom I have mentioned the facts of the family organization think it a most wonderful idea carried to the extend you have it." Also in 1940, she received a brief visit from another distant cousin, Grover Cleveland Younkin of Wichita, of the family of Thaddeus Younkin. She died at about age 92 on July 12, 1953. Interment was in Green Mountain Cemetery in Boulder.

• Grandson John Wesley Tener (1863-1943) was born in 1863. In 1904, when he was age 41, he was united in marriage with Bertha Mabel Carr (1879-1955). The couple resided in Riverside and bore fouir known children -- Helen Irene Tener, Marie Eleanor Havel, John Edward Tener and Wilma Jane Slawson. John was cut away by the Grim Reaper in 1943, with burial in Riverside Cemetery. Bertha made survived another dozen years. She passed away in 1955.

• Granddaughter Elizabeth Tener (1847-1929) was born on Jan. 28, 1847. In nuptials held near Riverside, on Aug. 10, 1869, Elizabeth wedded Thomas L. "Tim" Sims (April 13, 1845-1933), son of Charles W. and Frances (Young) Sims. As a young man, living in Yatton, IA during the Civil War, Thomas enlisted in the Union Army on Aug. 16, 1862. He was assigned to the 24th Iowa Infantry, Company D. While in battle at Champion Hill, MS on May 16, 1863, he received a wound in action. After nearly three years of military service, Thomas was discharged in Savannah, GA on July 17, 1865. After returning home to Riverside, Timothy joined the Masons. If he received a military pension as compensation for his Civil War wound, the record has not yet been found. The couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with an informal lunch at their home on Aug. 10, 1949. They received $25 in gold in gifts. A news story about the event reported that "The bride of a half-century ago was daintily constumed; her eyes shone with happiness; and her hair, which Nature is making soft and white, was especially becoming in its coiffure." At the age of 81, Elizabeth passed away on Jan. 7, 1929. Thomas lived for another three years and succumbed at the age of 87 on April 4, 1933.

• Granddaughter Margaret Caroline "Maggie" Tener (1851-1928) was born on July 27, 1851. She was united in wedlock with Charles D. Wood (Sept. 11, 1866-1928). She was 15 years older than the groom. The couple dwelled in Riverside, where he belonged to the Masons and she to the Order of Eastern Star. On the fateful day of Aug. 24, 1928, the couple both died, she at age 77 and he at 61. They are interred in Riverside Cemetery in Washington County, IA.

Henry A. Younkin's profile, Portrait and Biographical Album of Washington County

Son Henry A. Younkin (1827-1920) was born on Nov. 2, 1827 in Ohio. At the age of 17, in 1844, he migrated west with his parents and siblings to Washington County, IA. When he reached the age of 21, in 1849, Henry left his parents' home and ventured out on his own. He spent a winter in Arkansas and Mississippi, and the next winter in Wisconsin, lumbering pine along the Chippewa River. He later returned to Iowa where he spent the rest of his years. Henry waited until he was age 33 to marry. On Dec. 6, 1860, he was united in wedlock with Mary Ann Iden (Jan. 1, 1831-1912), daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Harring) Iden and a native of Deavertown, Morgan County, OH. She was a cousin of Eliza J. Iden who married Henry's brother Joseph. Mary Ann was only two months old when her mother died, and she was raised by her Harring grandparents near Fosterville, Perry County. She then came to Iowa in 1856 to reside with an uncle, Alfred Iden. Their two children were Wilbur Younkin and Emma C. Younkin. The first house in which the Younkins lived was still standing as of 1887, but had been moved to make way for a more modern farm home. They remained on that farm for 52 years, located two miles east of Riverside, Washington County. Henry was active in the community and served as assessor of Iowa Township and as a trustee for three years. He also spent 14 years as treasurer of the local school district, and he and Mary Ann were said to be "earnest advocates of everything pertaining to the advancement of educational interests. In 1887, Henry was profiled in the book Portrait and Biographical Album of Washington County, Iowa. Mary Ann died on June 12, 1912 at the age of 81. Rev. H.F. Pugh, of the local Methodist Episcopal Church, officiated at the funeral service. Eight years later, Henry was carried away by the Angel of Death at the age of 92 on Sept. 16, 1920.

• Granddaughter Emma C. Younkin (1862-1937) was born in 1862 in the old farm house on her parents' farm two miles east of Riverside, Washington County, IA. She attended several semesters of the Iowa City Academy, receiving what then was known as "a liberal education." On Nov. 28, 1894, she wedded Dayhart S. Hardy (July 1870-1959). They made a home with Emma's parents and bore a son, Walter L. Hardy. She died in Riverside in 1937.

Birthday postcard sent to Henry A. Younkin by cousin Mary L. Iden, Nov. 1909

Abner and Martha Jane Younkin

Son Abner Younkin (1829-1896) was born on Nov. 2, 1829 in Perry County, OH. At the age of about 17, in 1844, he may have stayed behind hen his family migrated to Iowa. Abner was twice married. His first bride was Martha Jane Young (1835-1876), whom he wed in 1855 in Perry County. They were the parents of Cyrus Lorenzo Dow Younkin, Francis Asbury "Frank" Younkin, Ida J. Younkin, Uretta A. Younkin, Samuel Younkin, Effa "Effie" Stella Vail Tallon Bettis, Abner "Evans" Younkin Sr. and Katrine Minnie Younkin. Sadly, daughter Uretta died at the age of about one in 1864 and was placed into repose in Riverside Cemetery. Heartache cascaded through the family when Martha Jane died of tuberculosis ("consumption") at the age of 41 on March 29, 1876. After two years of grieving, Abner wed his second bride, Rebecca Fesler (Aug. 12, 1844-1923), daughter of Samuel and Fanny Fesler of Liberty Township, Johnson County. Their wedding was held in 1878. The couple produced two children of their own -- Fannie Younkin and Mary Ruth Younkin. Abner resided in Riverside and was taxed on his ownership of 110 acres in 1894. He also was a member of the Iowa Township board of supervisors in 1876.

Stricken with kidney disease, he passed away in Riverside on May 21, 1896 at the age of 66. He rests for all time in Riverside Cemetery. Rebecca spent her final years in Iowa City at 213 South Capitol Street and was considered "one of the beloved pioneers of Southeastern Iowa," said the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She "was a devoted mother, and her greatest enjoyment was to live and do for her children. She had made her home with her daughter, Miss Mary Younkin, for the last 12 years, and in that home and elsewhere grief has come to those who esteemed and loved her." She died on Oct. 8, 1923. In an obituary, the Press-Citizen remarked that "She has been ill for the last two months, and in a critical condition during the last fortnight." Burial was in Riverside Cemetery following funeral services held at the local Methodist Church. The epitaph on their red barre granite grave marker reads: "God giveth, God taken away, our Mother." Their daughter married H.J. Vail of Pasadena, CA.

Top headline obituary, Washington (IA) Evening Journal, 1896

• Cyrus' postcard to Uncle Henry A. Younkin, 1910

  Grandson Rev. Cyrus Lorenzo Dow Younkin (1855-1925) was born in 1855. He was named for a famed traveling American preacher, Lorenzo Dow (1777-1834), who was never ordained but is said to have made sermons to more people than anyone in his time. He was united in holy wedlock with Anna May Mitchell (1862-1920), a native of Dixfield, Maine and the daughter of William Wallace and Sarah Mason (Eustis) Mitchell. They are believed to have been the parents of three offspring -- Edith Frances Younkin, Conrad Younkin and Kenneth "Mitchell" Younkin. Sadly, the youngest died an untimely death on Christmas Eve 1896. Cyrus received his ordination in 1879. He studied at Boston University and received a bachelor's degree in 1882 and a master of arts degree in 1885. Early in his career, he was assigned to Wollaston Methodist Church near Boston. In the mid-1880s, he was pastor of the Bromfield Church of Boston. Then in February 1885, he accepted a transfer to the Halifax Congregational Church "to supply the pulpit and the church continues to struggle with the support of the ministry," said The History of the Halifax Congregational Church of Halifax, Massachusetts. When the congregation celebrated its 150th anniversary in 1891, he presented "a very interesting historical address," said the Halifax History. He left Halifax on May 1, 1885 and is believed to have moved to Park Street Congregational Church in Boston. Circa 1892, he made his home in Boston at 201 North Street. He then became superintendent of the North End Mission, a Boston home for children, and in 1889 is known to have petitioned to be named guardian of young John E. Reardon. In October 1899, said the Boston Globe, a reunion was held in the Mission's meeting room, with Anna May's uncle W.W. Mitchell returning after a long time away. Anna May was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (No. 38098) based on the service of two men, Corporal Chamberlain Eustis and Sergeant Samuel Trask of Massachusetts. Cyrus in April 1910 traveled to Texas to visit his brother Abner Evans Younkin and then a postcard photo of Abner and his son Abner Jr. to their uncle Henry A. Younkin in Riverside, IA. The note read: "Dear Uncle: We leave Laredo tonight. Have enjoyed our visit with brother Evans. Our next stop will be at the Grand Canyon of Arizona. Will reach there Sunday. Thence we go to Los Angeles and Passadena. Health good. Love to you and all. C.L.D. Younkin." Anna May died in 1920 and was buried at Greenwood Cemetery in Maine. Cyrus outlived her by five years and circa 1922 was pastor of Byfield Church, with a membership of 70. He joined his wife in death in 1925.

Great-granddaughter Edith Frances Younkin (1889- ? ) was born in March 1889 in Boston.

• Grandson Francis Asbury "Frank" Younkin (1857-1940) was born on Dec. 8, 1857 in Riverside, Washington County, IA. He married Helen Seaton (1857-1888) on Nov. 28, 1883 in What Cheer, Keokuk County, IA. They moved to Cameron, a Missouri community encompassing the three counties of Clinton, DeKalb and Caldwell. In the five short years they were married, the couple bore two children, Floy Parker and Francis Asbury Younkin Jr. Sadly, Helen died in Feb. 1888 at the age of just 30 in 1888, and their infant son also died that year. After a grieving period of five years, Frank married a second time on June 1, 1893 in New Sharon, Mahaska County. His second bride was Cora (Martin) Cowles (Dec. 14, 1866-1940), daughter of William and Emily (Nash) Martin of Lacey, IA. Cora had been married previously and brought a son to the second union, three-year-old Leonard Cowles. The produced a son of their own, Raymond Albert Younkin. Frank and Cora dwelled for years in New Sharon. Frank died there on May 14, 1940. Burial was in Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa, Mahaska County, IA. Cora only survived him by less than six months and joined him in death on Dec. 4, 1940.

Above left: Francis Asbury Younkin with his daughter Floy, photographed at Wheelers Gallery, What Cheer, IA. Above right: one of Floy's prized bulls,

Great-granddaughter Floy Younkin (1884-1967) was born on Oct. 22, 1884 in Cameron, MO. She was united in holy matrimony with Omar Parker ( ? - ? ). Photographs suggest that Floy became a nurse. She was in Pasadena, CA in 1948. She passed away in Sept. 1967.

Great-grandson Raymond Albert Younkin (1900-1986) was born on Aug. 24, 1900 in New Sharon, Mahaska County. On May 1, 1921, when he was age 20, Raymond wedded Alice Anna Potheven (Oct. 22, 1900- ? ). The produced three children -- Harriet Corinne Lowell, Francis Albert Younkin and Carol Ann Younkin. Raymond died at the age of about 86 on April 14, 1986. Alice survived and moved to Glendale, AZ. She was in contact with Donna (Younkin) Logan, founder of the Younkin Reunion East of the 1990s, and a photograph of Raymond's family was published in Vol. #3 of the modern Younkin Family News Bulletin.

Step-great-grandson Leonard Cowles (1890- ? ) was born in Sept. 1890. He married Edna Duffus ( ? - ? ). Nothing more is known.

Above left: Floy (Younkin) Parker. Above right: Raymond and Carol (Petheven) Younkin with their children Harriet, Carol and Francis. Below, Floy Parker.

• Granddaughter Ida J. Younkin (1861- ? ) was born in July 1861 in Iowa Township, Washington County, IA. In about 1880, when she was age 19, she married George H. Barbour (Aug. 1853- ? ), an Ohio native. They were the parents of five daughters -- Laura June Barbour, Ida Florence Barbour, twins Edith Barbour and Edna Barbour, and Nellie Gladys Barbour. In 1900, census records show that the couple dwelled in Prairie Township, Mahaska County, IA, where George worked as a lumber and grain dealer. Sadness blanketed the family when Ida died sometime during the decade between 1900 and 1910. Then in about 1910, George wedded his second bride, Mary J. (1860- ? ), a native of Pennsylvania. George earned a living in 1910 with interests in lumber and banking in New Sharon, Mahaska County.

Great-granddaughter Laura June Barbour (1881- ? ) was born in June 1881. At the age of 28, on June 22, 1909, she was united in matrimony with Francis A. Mather ( ? - ? ), son of Peter S. and Annie E. (Thompson) Mather. They dwelled in 1948 in Van Nuys, CA.

Great-granddaughter Ida Florence Barbour (1883- ? ) was born in Nov. 1883. At the age of 27, she lived at home and worked as a bookkeeper for a real estate firm in New Sharon.

Great-granddaughter Edith Edna Barbour (1885- ? ) was born in Oct. 1885, a twin with her sister Edna. As with her twin sister, Edith was employed as a teacher in the city schools of New Sharon in 1908-1910. When she was age 25, on Oct. 5, 1910, she wedded Harry A. Wilson ( ? - ? ), son of A.C. and Libbie (Darrah) Wilson. Evidence suggests that it was a double wedding with her twin Edna and Carl L. Ranger.

Great-granddaughter Edna Edith Barbour (1885- ? ) was born in Oct. 1885, a twin with her sister Edith. As with her twin sister, Edna was employed as a teacher in the city schools of New Sharon in 1910. On Oct. 5, 1910, in Mahaska County, she was joined in wedlock with Carl L. Ranger ( ? - ? ), son of Clark W. and Viola S. (Lee) Ranger. Clues hint that it was a double wedding with her twin Edith and Harry A. Wilson. She was in Los Angeles in 1948.

Great-granddaughter Nellie Gladys Barbour (1893- ? ) was born in March 1893.

• Grandson Samuel Younkin (1866- ? ) was born in April 1866 in Iowa Township, Washington County, IA. At the age of 31 in about 1897, he was joined in wedlock with 25-year-old Abigail "Abby" (?) (April 1870- ? ), daughter of Harriet Gunn and a native of Michigan. They bore two children -- Harriet Lucille Younkin and Ruth Colynn. Sadly, daughter Harriet was deceased by 1910. The family was in Iowa when their eldest daughter was born in 1898 and in Washington County, IA in 1900 as shown by the census, with Samuel earning a living as a lumberman. Evidence suggests that they were in Canada circa 1901 when their daughter Ruth was birthed. They relocated to the Pacific Northwest and were in Spokane, Spokane County, WA in 1910-1930 when the federal census enumerations were made. In Spokane, Samuel was employed as a florist, with Abby and Ruth assisting him in the business in 1930. Abby died during the early 1930s, and by 1935 Samuel had married a second time to Leona (1876- ? ), a native of Oregon. Samuel and Leona remained in Spokane in 1940. Their paper trail ends here.

Great-granddaughter Ruth Younkin married (?) Colynn ( ? - ? ). In 1948, they lived in South Laguna, CA.

• Effie and Hervey Vail

  Granddaughter Effa Stella "Effie" Younkin (1869- ? ) was born on May 10, 1869 in Iowa. In about 1898, when she would have been age 29, she was wedded to 52-year-old Hervey J. Vail (1846- ? ), who was 24 years older than she. The couple did not reproduce. In the years prior to marriage, Hervey had moved to Pasadena, Los Angeles County, CA, where he established the Pasadena Weekly Star newspaper and was its owner/publisher for about nine years. as such, he was considered a "pioneer newspaper editor of this city" said the Los Angeles Times. He sold the Star and returned to New Sharon, IA, where he married our Effie. He brought a son to the marriage, William L. Vail. When the United States Census was taken in 1910, the couple lived in New Sharon, Mahaska County, IA, with Hervey working as postmaster and Effie as a postal clerk. That year, city schools teacher Della K. Moberly and New Sharon Star editor Ray B. Duboe boarded in their home. Their dwelling-place was on High Street. Then in 1911, the Vails relocated to Pasadena, making a home at 962 East Villa Street. The 1920 federal census enumeration shows Hervey's occupation as journalist-newspaper. He died at the age of 77 on Nov. 30, 1922. His passing created headline news in the L.A. Times. At the time of Hervey's death, his son was in Mexico City. Later, on June 30, 1928, the 58-year-old Effie married her second spouse, 67-year-old widower George M. Tallon (Feb. 18, 1866-1939), a native of Union Mills Mahaska County, IA. News of their marriage was published in a listing in the L.A. Times. George brought children to the second union, among them son Fred DeVern Tallon. The Tallons established a home in Pasadena. Sadly, their marriage was short-lived, as George died in Pasadena in February 1939, with a short obituary appearing in the Davenport Quad-City Times and Iowa City Press Citizen. Word of his death was transmitted to Effie's half-sister Fannie Meeks in Davenport, IA. The funeral was held in Pasadena, with burial in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale. Effie wed a third time, on June 26, 1940 to Wilbur Oren Bettis (May 27, 1877-1958), the son of John C. and Electa A. (Dike) Bettis of Vermont. She was age 71 at the time. Wilbur worked as a night watchman at Pasadena Junior College, and they lived at 1475 Locust Street. In April-May 1948, Effie's half-sister Fannie Meeks spent six weeks' visit in their home, the first time the sisters had seen each other for 38 years. A dinner was held in honor of the guests, and visitors included Glenn Meeks, John L. Younkin and wife of Culver City, Dudley Ranger and wife of Los Angeles, Ruth Younkin Colynn and husband of South Laguna, June and Francis Mather of Van Nuys, Edna Ranger of Los Angeles and Floy Younkin Parker of Pasadena. The Bettis marriage union lasted for 15 years until Effie's death on June 15, 1955. Wilbur outlived her by three years. On New Year's Day 1958, as a resident in Elwood Rest Home, Wilbur suffered a heart attack and died in Pasadena. His remains were placed into repose with Effie's in Mountain View Cemetery and Mausoleum in Altadena, CA. Effie's niece, Floy (Younkin) Parker, was the informant Wilbur's death certificate.

Above left: brothers Samuel and Frank Younkin. Above right: Dr. Abner "Evans" Younkin Sr. with his son Abner Jr. in Laredo, Texas, 1910.

• Grandson Dr. Abner "Evans" Younkin Sr. (1870-1946) was born the day after Christmas 1870 in Riverside, Washington County, IA. Abner was joined in wedlock with Nell Mudd (April 5, 1880-1962), daughter of William Ambrose and Naomi (Sparks) Mudd. Their two known offspring were Abner Evans Younkin Jr. and John Younkin. Abner Sr. received a doctorate in dentistry and initially established a practice in Corpus Christi, TX. They eventually moved to Laredo, Webb County, TX and were there circa 1910-1946. He received a visit from his brother Cyrus in April 1910, who in turn sent a postcard photo of Abner and his son Abner Jr. to their uncle Henry A. Younkin in Riverside, IA. The note read: "Dear Uncle: We leave Laredo tonight. Have enjoyed our visit with brother Evans. Our next stop will be at the Grand Canyon of Arizona." The Waco (TX) News-Tribune once reported that Abner "for a number of years [was] a foremost Bermuda onion grower on his two irrigated farms near here..." Abner suffered a heart attack and died in Laredo on Dec. 23, 1946, just three days shy of his 76th birthday. His remains rest in Laredo City Cemetery. Nell outlived her husband by 16 years and remained in Laredo. There, she succumbed on Dec. 19, 1962, at the age of 82. Their son Abner Jr. (1908-1972) died on May 1, 1972 and is interred in Laredo.

• Granddaughter Katrine Minnie Younkin (1873- ? ) was born in 1873 in Iowa Township, Washington County. She was united in matrimony with John Willson ( ? - ? ). They produced these known sons -- Scott Willson and Lawrence Willson. She is believed to have passed into eternity in Pasadena, CA.

• Five generations of Younkin women -- Rebecca (Fesler) Younkin with her offspring. But who?

  Granddaughter Fannie Younkin (1881- ? ) was born in Aug. 1881 in Washington County, IA. In 1901, she wedded James L. Meeks ( ? - ? ). They were the parents of 10 and made a home in Riverside in 1907-1923. The children from this marriage were Mabel McLeod, Grace Yeggy, Ferne Perkins, Dorothy Harrison, Donald Meeks, Ivan Meeks, Elmer Meeks, Glenn Meeks and two others. Active socially, Fannie was elected Noble Grand and Treasurer over the years with the Rebekahs Lodge. In April-May 1948, she and her sister Mary traveled to California to see their elder half-sister Effie Bettis for the first time in 38 years. Son Glenn, who also was in California during that time, joined the visiting party at the Bettis residence. Upon their return home, they took a train to Denver, where they spent a few days and thence to Riverside, IA. Fannie spent her final years in Iowa City and died at the age of 90 and passed away in mid-Nov. 1971. She was survived by 19 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

• Granddaughter Mary Ruth Younkin (1884-1975) was born on July 22, 1884. Circa 1923, unmarried, she resided with her widowed mother and was employed in the Extension Division of the University of Iowa. Then in 1948, she was in Mobile, AL, where she worked in a railroad office. Mary and her sister Fannie traveled to Pasadena, CA in April 1948 to see their elder half-sister Effie Bettis for the first time in 38 years. Fate intervened, however, when Mary was forced to abort the trip after only five days when an emergency called her back to work in Alabama. Mary lived in Iowa City in 1971. She died on July 8, 1975.

Daughter Elizabeth Younkin (1830-1862) was born on June 22, 1830 in Ohio. At the age of 14, she and her family became pioneer settlers of Iowa. In nuptials held in or near Riverside, Washington County, IA, she was married on Dec. 3, 1857 to Thomas H. Iden (April 1829- ? ), son of Alfred and Mary Ann (Bell) Iden. In their short five years of marriage, the couple bore four sons -- Charles H. Iden, Chris Iden, William W. Iden and George W. Iden. Sadly, she died at the age of about 32 on Nov. 14, 1862, possibly due to the after-effects of childbirth with her son George. Thomas married a second time to Ohio native Harriet "Hattie" Holmes (1837- ? ) and produced offspring of their own, Kate Iden, Frank iden and John Iden. When the federal census enumeration was made in 1870, Thomas and Hattie lived on a farm in Iowa Township, Washington County. Then during the 1870s, they pulled up stakes and moved to Kansas, making a home in Houston Township, Smith County, as shown in the 1880 census. Living under their roof in 1880 was Thomas' 18-year-old sister-in-law Martha Holmes. Evidence suggests that Harriet died between 1880 and 1900. When the U.S. Census again was taken in 1900 of Harvey Township, Smith County, Thomas was shown as widowed, with 38-year-old sister-in-law Martha Holmes still in the residence, along with 14-year-old servant James Chapman.

• Grandson Charles H. "Charley" Iden (1858- ? ) was born in 1858 near Riverside in Washington County, IA. At the age of 21, he lived with his father and stepmother on a farm in Houston Township, Smith County, KS.

• Grandson Chris Iden (1859- ? ) was born in 1859 near Riverside in Washington County, IA.

• Grandson William W. Iden (1860- ? ) was born on Jan. 3, 1860 near Riverside in Washington County, IA. Unmarried at age 19 in 1880, he dwelled with his father and stepmother and provided labor for their fam in Houston Township, Smith County, KS.

• Grandson George W. Iden (1862- ? ) was born on Nov. 11, 1862 near Riverside in Washington County, IA. As a boy, he moved with his family to a new home in Houston Township, Smith County, KS. He is believed to be the same "George W. Iden" named in a Nov. 1898 article in the Smith County (KS) Journal, saying he was "one of the hard working and prosperous farmers of Houston township [and] was in town last Saturday and found time to make this office a pleasant call. He saysthey are short on corn down his way this season, but did fairly well with wheat. He has 60 acres of wheat that is up and looking fine for next year's crop."

Daughter Nancy Younkin (1832-1920) was born on June 15, 1832 in Ohio, as written in the family Bible. She came to Iowa at about age 12 and never married. For many years, she lived with her bachelor brother, Civil War veteran John Franklin Younkin, and served as his cook and housekeeper. She died in 1920.

Son William R. Younkin (1834-1876) was born on Nov. 22 or 23, 1834 in Ohio. At the age of about 10, he joined his family in a cross-country migration to Iowa. In nuptials held in Washington County, IA, he was united in matrimony with Mary Adaline Bray (April 6 or 8, 1846-1905). The couple bore four children -- Franklin Savanah Younkin, M. Ella J. Younkin, William Henry Younkin and Leon George Younkin. William earned a living as a harness-maker and was proprietor of shops in Ainsworth, Yalton and Riverside. But sadly, at the age of only 42, he died in Riverside on Jan. 12, 1876. Widowed at the age of 30, Mary Adaline survived for nearly another three decades and married again to Samuel Wood ( ? - ? ). She was a member of the Lone Tree Methodist Episcopal Church. She joined him in death in Lone Tree, IA, in the home of her son William, on April 3, 1905 at the age of 58.

Frank and Henrietta (Scott) Younkin and family of deaf-mute offspring

• Grandson Franklin Savanah "Frank" Younkin (1867-1955) was born on Jan. 16, 1867 in Iowa. His wife was Henrietta "Etta" Scott (July 26, 1869- ? ), a native of Riverside, Washington County, IA and the daughter of Thomas Carson and Catharine Jane (Marling) Scott. Their three known children were Georgia Etta Barritt, Lyle William Younkin and Homer Cal Younkin. They made a home in Lorimor, Union County, IA. Heartache enveloped the young family when Henrietta at age 34 passed away two days before Christmas 1903. Frank remained in Lorimor for the rest of his life. He may have married again to Effie A. (?) (June 22, 1868-1939). Effie died two days before Christmas 1939 at the age of 71. In Aug. 1940, Frank attended the 13th annual Younkin-Godlove Reunion held at Iowa City. He is believed to have died in Lorimer at the age of 88 in Aug. 1955. A short obituary was printed in the Iowa City Press Citizen, which said he was survived by his granddaughter Mrs. Kenneth Temple and his sister Mellie Lingo. Frank and Henrietta rest in Hamblin Cemetery in Macksburg, Madison County, IA.

Great-granddaughter Georgia Etta Younkin (1890-1973) was born on May 24, 1890 in Washington County, IA. She was stricken with scarlet fever as a child and and was rendered deaf and unable to speak. She studied at the School for the Deaf in Council Bluffs. As an adult, on Feb. 4, 1914, she was joined in marriage with a fellow deaf-mute, widower William Oliver Barritt (1873-1923), a resident of Council Bluffs, IA and the son of Oliver Lindsay and Emma Carolina (Staffansson) Barritt. Their wedding was conducted with a primitive type of sign language which allowed the minister to ask both groom and bride for their consent to marry. William had been married once before to Jennie M. (1875-1904). Georgia and William bore a daughter of their own, Bessie Mae Temple. Sadly, William was carried away by the Angel of Death in 1923 after only a few years of marriage. Georgia lived a long life in Council Bluffs. As a resident of Woodlawn Convalescent Home in Waterloo, IA, she passed into eternity on July 15, 1973 at the age of 83. A short death notice appeared in the Waterloo Courier. She rests in Calvary Cemetery in Waterloo, Black Hawk County, IA. Their daughter Bessie was joined in marriage with Corp. Kenneth F. Temple of Portsmouth, VA in Sept. 1937.

Great-grandson Homer Carl "Cal" Younkin (1896-1939) was born on June 11, 1896 in Oakland, IA. As a boy, he was stricken with scarlet fever as a child and and was rendered deaf and unable to speak. He never married. Circa 1930, clues hint that he worked in Madison, WI. At the age of 47, he may have lived in the Salvation Army facility of Davenport, IA in 1938, with a complaint made that he was there despite status as a non-resident of the town. He earned a living as a laborer with the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression. Stricken with degeneration of his spinal cord, leading to paralysis, he was admitted to Broadlawns General Hospital in Des Moines. He died there on Jan. 5, 1939 at the age of 42. His remains were buried in Hamblin Cemetery in Macksburg, Madison County, and his father had the sad task of signing the death certificate.

Great-grandson Lyle William Younkin (1894-1969) was born on Sept. 10, 1894 in Iowa. Stricken with scarlet fever as a young boy, he became deaf and not able to speak. He grew up in Lorimor. In 1901, at the age of seven, he was admitted to the Iowa School for the Deaf in Council Bluffs. Said the Marshalltown Evening Times-Republican, in a June 1914 article, "His industrial work has been in the printing and book binding department, and the subject chosen for his essay is appropriately 'Printing'." When the 1920 census was taken, Lyle boarded in the home of Mary Rowe in Muskogee, Muskogee County, OK. He earned a living that year as a "carpenter-general work." At the age of 28, in about 1922, he was joined in wedlock with 22-year-old Anna B. ( ? - ? ). They dwelled in Des Moines, with him working as a carpenter and her as a seamstress for an overalls factory. The couple relocated to Dallas during the 1930s where he continued his carpentry work, focusing on building construction. Death took him away in Dallas, TX on Sept. 26, 1969.

• Granddaughter M. Ella J. "Mellie" Younkin (1869- ? ) was born in 1869 in Iowa. At the age of 29, on Aug. 30, 1898, she married Dr. John H. Lingo (Nov. 11, 1867-1939), a veterinarian of Lone Tree and the son of Milton and Sarah (Marling) Lingo of Washington County, IA. The couple made a home in Lone Tree and were the parents of one daughter, who sadly died in infancy. They also adopted a daughter, Zelda Lintner. Early in his working career, John was employed in a Lone Tree hardware store. Then in 1912, he graduated from the Chicago Veterinary College and built a popular practice in Johnson, Louisa, Muscatine and Washington Counties. He also was a member of the local lodge of the Masons. Sadly, he died on Aug. 26, 1939, with funeral rites provided his Masonic friends. Pallbearers included Otto Joens, Walter Lennabaugh, Walter E. Shoquist, William Pearson, Cloyce J. Loehr and Harry W. Sievers. Among the hymns sung at the funeral were "In the Sweet By and Bye" and "When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder." Mellie underwent surgery for a serious issue in May 1941 in Iowa City's Mercy Hospital but was released and returned home. Circa 1944, she moved to a new home in Washington, IA. She died in her residence on Oct. 23, 1955 from the effects of a heart problem. An obituary was published in the Muscatine (IA) Journal, with burial in the Riverside Cemetery.

History of Johnson County, Iowa

• William's residence, Lone Tree, Iowa

  Grandson William Henry Younkin (1872-1942) was born on Feb. 2, 1872 in Riverside, Washington County, IA and grew up learning the farming trade. He left home to go out on his own at the age of 15 with his education "gained mainly in the 'college of hard knocks,' where he developed into a man of strong purpose and high ambition," said the book Leading Events in Johnson County, Iowa. As an adult, was praised as an "enterprising business man ... and is a fine example of a self-made man.... He early learned the lessons of life and believes he has gained most of his friends by dealing fairly in business and by extending a ready sympathy and friendship." On Sept. 10, 1895, when he was 23 years of age, William wedded Mary E. Underwood (1875-1946), daughter of Addis Emmet and Catherine C. (Jayne) Underwood. The wedding was held in Johnson County, IA. They were the parents of Howard William Younkin and Helen M. Lindsay. At some point in young adulthood he clerked in a local hardware store. Circa 1897, their son was born in Broome County, NY, the home region of the Underwood family. The couple eventually returned to Iowa and settled in Lone Tree, Johnson County, IA. Starting in about 1894, and for 25 years, William was employed as editor of the local ewspaper. He and Hattie Underwood ran the paper as the Lone Tree Branch, which grew from a six-column folio to seven columns, with the name changed to the Reporter. Hattie sold her interest to William in 1898 but continued to sell advertising. Said the History of Johnson County, Iowa, "In 1898 the paper was again enlarged to a five column quarto and later, in 1900, to a six column quarto, in which form it is still issued. During the seventeen years W.H. Younkin has edited and published the paper he has never missed an issue and has given each issue his personal attention. By his close association to business, he has built up one of the best paying newpaper propositions in the county and has prospered as few have in his chosen occupation. The Reporter is now and has been for many years one of the official papers of the county." He owned a farm in Fremont Township and several tracts of land in Lone Tree. Said Leading Events, "He has helped build up various successful local enterprises and is one of the most successful editors in his part of the state." A Democrat, he held office as councilman of the town of Lone Tree and on the board of education for the Independent District of Lone Tree. He belonged to the Lone Tree Methodist Church, the Abner Lodge of the Masons, the International Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Rose Temple of Pythian Sisters. Circa 1901, he was a director of the Farmers and Merchants Savings Bank of Lone Tree, a financial institution founded with $20,000 in capital. He also was an original stockholder of the Lone Tree Telephone Company and the Lone Tree Live Stock Sale Pavilion Company. He also earned income selling insurance. Later in life, he is believed to have relocated to Arkansas and made a home in Hot Springs. He died in Hot Springs at the age of 69 on March 7, 1942. An obituary was published in the Muscatine Journal and News-Tribune. Mary followed him to the grave in 1946 at the age of 71. They are interred in Lone Tree Cemetery.

• Grandson Leon George Younkin (1875- ? ) was born in 1875 in Iowa. He was joined in holy wedlock with Pearl Hayes (1883- ? ), a native of Iowa. They produced three offspring -- Millard M. Younkin, Myra C. Kuhn and Ronald Younkin. He is listed in the Iowa City Director of 1899-1900 as working in a restaurant. In August 1937, living in Fairfield, IA, Leon is known to have attended the funeral of his bachelor uncle, Civil War veteran John Franklin Younkin. His home in 1942 was in Burlington, IA.

Daughter Margaret Younkin (1837-1863) was born on Nov. 27, 1837 in Ohio, as inscribed in the family Bible. Margaret came to Iowa as a girl of about seven. In nuptials held in Washington County, IA on March 19, 1862, the 24-year-old Margaret married William P. Tansey ( ? -1917?), also spelled "Temsey." About the time they married, William served in the Union Army during the Civil War as a member of the 24th Iowa Infantry, Company D. Tragically, the marriage was doomed. Heartbreak enveloped the family when Margaret died just 11 months later, on Feb. 1, 1863, at the age of 25. William was away in the Army at the time. Just four-and-a-half years after the war ended, on Christmas Eve 1869, William was awarded a military pension as compensation for wartime injuries. [Invalid App. #151.094 - Cert. #105.338] A story in the April 12, 1936 edition of the Davenport (IA) Quad-City Times suggests that he may have wed again in 1866 to Rachel Craig ( ? -1936), daughter of Robert and Sarah (Godlove) Craig, and relocated to Pawnee, OK. After William's death circa 1917, Rachel then began receiving the monthly pension checks. [Widow App. #1093.769 - Cert. #826.440]

Riverside, Iowa news story, 1930s -- playing cards with local high school girls and lighting up a 10-cent cigar

Son John Franklin Younkin (1840-1937) was born on Nov. 29, 1839/1840 in Ohio. He was but a boy of four when he and his family relocated from Ohio to Iowa. He stood 5 feet, 7 inches tall, with dark hair, dark complexion and hazel-colored eyes. After the outbreak of the Civil War, John joined the Union Army as a member of the 24th Iowa Infantry, Company D. A feature story about him in a local newspaper said that he was "one of three volunteers of the original 110 members of Company D of the 24th Iowa Infantry who marched through six hard battles and a hundred skirmishes in the south without a scratch from sword or bullet." Among the known battles in which he took part were Magnolia Hill and Champion Hill, MS and Black River. The Iowa City Press-Citizen once reported that after Black River,

Company D traveled to New Orleans following the siege of Vicksburg and later to Virginia where it joined the forces of Sherman. With that army he fought in the battles of Berryville, Winchester, Cedar Creek and Bull Head Mountain. They then crossed to Goldsburg where they joined Sherman's army. They were preparing for battle in Carolina with Sherman's forces when word reached them that the war had ended. Following this the army was sent to Georgia and later to Pennsylvania and then to Davenport for demobilization.

Another newspaper noted that once the war ended, "In '65, with the other Boys in Blue, this eligible young bachelor marched home. First it seemed a glamorous picture of heroic romance. But John Younkin soon thought otherwise. 'The fact is, that there were so many girls around that I got sick of them,' Mr. Younkin said. That is the only explanation he cares to give for his celibacy." As an adult, he lived east of Riverside with his unmarried sister Nancy, who cooked and kept house for him. Then in about 1907, they relocated into Iowa City. John secured a military pension as compensation for his wartime service and received monthly government checks for the rest of his life. [Invalid App. #461.553 - Cert. #250.053] John was mentioned in a Davenport Quad-City Times article of Dec. 20, 1936 about his nephew Samuel's 50th wedding anniversary, which noted that John was "the only local Civil war veteran." After his sister's death in 1920, said the newspaper, "he lives entirely alone in the 10-room house that stands beneath four giant oak trees on a hill in Riverside. He splits wood and carries in each day three heavy buckets of coal." To pass the time, he smoked 10-cent cigars and played cards with local teenage girls. His brother George, a local physician, served as his "constant" medical advisor and at one point instructed a dentist to pull all of John's teeth, at which point his health improved. John was said to be the oldest automobile owner in the county but gave up driving in 1931. A 1936 article in a local newspaper was headlined "A Hero, with 'Plenty of Girls,' Yet Never Wed in His 96 Years," authored by staff writer George Shane. He died in Mercy Hospital in Iowa City on Aug. 14, 1937 at the age of 96. Rev. C.E. Fitzsimmons, John's former pastor, officiated at the funeral service, with assistance from Rev. Judson T. Perkins. Mrs. L.R. Bates and Mrs. R.I. Marner sang hymns, accompanied by pianist Mrs. Harold Cress. Pallbearers included American Legion members Henry Manasmith, Clarence Rummelhart, Norval Flynn, Hubert E. Doud, Andrew Birrer and Cloyd Whitlock. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery, with taps played at graveside. His obituary was republished in the inaugural edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin at Christmas 1937.

Left: YFNB, April 1938 -- right: Riverside news story photo

Son Dr. George Wesley Younkin (1946-1943) was born on Sept. 5, 1846 in Washington County when Iowa was still a territory of the United States. He was the only child in the large family to be born in Iowa. On Dec. 6, 1876, he married Sarah Alice Anderson (Dec. 1856/1858- ? ). They were the parents of five -- Gordon H. Younkin, Mabel M. Younkin, G. Dwight Younkin, Ernestine Younkin and Alsie Younkin. As a young man, George desired to become a Methodist missionary and studied for the ministry. As a pastor, in the Methodist-Episcopal Church, he was pastor of a congregation in Wapello, IA and in 1887 in Kellogg, IA. Later, in 1876, he graduated from Iowa State University with a medical degree. He thus was an ordained Methodist minister and physician and worked in both fields for many years. The family made a home in Riverside, IA. A teetotaler, he "never drunk an ounce of liquor in his life," his brother John once said. In the community, he was a member of the Middle Link Lodge of the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF). The federeal census enumeration of 1880 shows that nephew Frank A. Younkin and brother-in-law Joseph T. Anderson in the household. When his brother John was profiled in a 1936 story in the Des Moines Register, George was said to be an "Iowa country doctor and one of the state's veteran physicians. For approximately 50 years he has practiced medicine in eastern and southern Iowa." The towns in which he practiced were Richmond, Lone Tree, Wapello and Riverside. He maintained an office in the second floor of a building on Riverside's Main Street, with his living space on the same floor. He was pictured in the April 30, 1938 edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin. Later that year, in August 1938, he was named in an Iowa City Press-Citizen article about the annual Younkin-Godlove Reunion, saying he was too infirm to attend. He once told an inquiring newspaper reporter that "Really, you want to know why we live so long, sir,?... It is because the name is Younkin, sir!" He was admitted to the IOOF Hospital in Mason City where he died at the age of 96 on May 16, 1943. Rev. G.H. Bamford, pastor of the Grace Evangelical Church, officiated at the funeral held in the IOOF Home chapel.

• Grandson Gordon H. Younkin (1877- ? ) was born in Nov. 1877 in Iowa. He made a home circa 1940 in Billings, MT.

• Granddaughter Mabel M. Younkin (1881- ? ) was born in May 1881 in Iowa. She lived in Denver, CO in 1943.

• Grandson G. Dwight Younkin (1883- ? ) was born in Oct. 1883 in Iowa. He dwelled in Denver in 1943.

• Granddaughter Ernestine Younkin (1894- ? ) was born in Jan. 1894 in Iowa.

• Granddaughter Alsie Younkin ( ? - ? ) -- also spelled Alice at times -- resided in 1943 in Denver.

~ Son Abraham Younkin ~

Abraham Younkin (1800?- ? ) was born in about 1800.

When a young man, Abraham relocated to the burgeoning town of Lancaster, Fairfield County, OH. He acquired lot 10 in town from Abraham Ruger in 1821.

When a Presbyterian Church was constructed in 1822-1823, Abraham traded tailoring services in return for a $10 credit as a subscriber to the fund. This was recorded in Charles M.L. Wiseman's 1898 book Centennial History of Lancaster, Ohio, and Lancaster People.

The U.S. Census of 1830 shows that 12 people lived under the Younkins' roof in Fairfield County.

Abraham joined the Masonic lodge in Lancaster. Among the other members were Gotlieb Steinman, John Noble, Thomas H. Cushing and George Sanderson.

Then in 1834, Abraham sold his lot 10 to Tunis Cox. The Younkins relocated to Hancock County, OH, settling in or near the town of Findlay. There, Abraham continued to earn a lliving as a tailor.

In 1846, Abraham was a charter member of the Hancock Lodge of the International Order of Odd Fellows.

When the federal census was taken in Findlay in 1850, Abraham headed a household which also included physician Jesse Beeson, his wife Susan, their children Sarah and Jerome, and 20-year-old Mary Stuart.

On Oct. 22, 1852, a charter was granted to form a Masons lodge in Findlay, with Abraham as an original member and holding the initial office of Master. Others in the original group were Abel F. Parker, Edwin Parker, David Patton, J.M. Coffinberry, George Arnold, Adolphus Morse, E.S. Reed and C.B. Wilson. The lodge grew, and Abraham helped obtain another charter to form a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, where he held the office of King. Said Daniel B. Beardsley's 1881 book History of Hancock County From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, "The chapter has always held its meetings in same room with the Lodge. Its membership is now about forty."

Abraham was elected Mayor of Findlay serving during the 1847-1852 period, succeeded by George W. Galloway.

His fate will be added here when learned.

Abraham is named in the 1910 book by Jacob A. Kimmell, Twentieth Century History of Findlay and Hancock County Ohio and Representative Citizens, and in the 1961 book by William Depue Humphrey, Findlay: The Story of a Community.

In its edition of Sept. 6, the Lancaster Eagle-Gazette named Abraham as one of Lancaster's original settlers in Square 12 on the south side of Mulberry Hill.

~ Daughter Mary Magdalena (Younkin) Atkins ~

Mary Magdalena Younkin (1804- ? ) was born in on Jan. 16, 1804 in Loudoun County, VA. She was baptized in the Reformed Congregation, with John George and Elisabeth (?) serving as the christening sponsors.

In Perry County, OH, on April 4, 1822, the 18-year-old Mary wedded Elijah Atkins ( ? - ? ). John Wilson officiated. This marriage is recorded in a compilation by Calvin L. McClintock of New Lexington, OH and published in Vol. XIV, No. 1 of Ohio Records and Pioneer Families published by Esther Weygandt Powell (Jan.-March 1973).

This couple has not yet been found on the 1850 United States Census. More will be added here when learned.

~ Son Joseph Younkin ~

Ohio River flatboat heading west Ballou's Pictorial, 1856

Joseph Younkin (1806-1899) was born on Aug. 24, 1806 in Lovettsville, Loudoun County, VA, described by family years later as "near Fortress Monroe," a famed Civil War supply installation. As an infant, with his name spelled "Junkin," he was christened on Oct. 2, 1806 in the nearby New Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church. His sponsors were Conrad and Elisabeth Roller.

Joseph moved with his parents to Ohio, and in 1830 he purchased acreage in Muskingum County.

At the age of 26, on Aug. 18, 1833, Joseph wedded Susan Meek (March 20, 1810-1876). The Younkins initially made a home in the mid-1830s in Gratiot, a village straddling the border of Licking/Muskingum Counties, OH.

The couple bore eight known children -- Erastus Scott Younkin, Rufus Henry Younkin, Samuel Glass Younkin, David Chambers Younkin, Moses Meek Younkin, Joseph Younkin, Edward C. Younkin and Caroline Matilda Younkin.

The family was plunged into grief when losing five children age six or under during the span of years 1840 to 1853. Sons Erastus (1840) and David (1844) died during their years in Gratiot.

Obituary, 1899

In 1846, the Younkins relocated to Iowa, "most of the journey being made by boat by way of St. Louis and Peoria, Illinois," said the 1914 book Story of Lee County, Iowa, by Nelson Cummins Roberts and Samuel W. Moorhead. Their first home was in Farmington, Van Buren County, circa 1848, where they stayed for 15 years. During that period, sons Moses (1847), Joseph Jr. (1849) and Edward (1853) died in young childhood.

Then in 1864, the family pulled up stakes and made a move to a farm in Montrose, Lee County, IA.

Susan died in Montrose at the age of 65 on Feb. 1, 1876.

Joseph outlived his bride by 23 years. He retired from farming and moved into the town of Keokuk, where he spent about seven years. Burdened by Iowa's hard winters and their effect on his health, he migrated to Southern California in about 1892 and made a home in Los Angeles.

He died there at the age of 92 on Feb. 8, 1899. His remains were shipped back to Iowa to rest in Montrose. An obituary in the the Gate City said that he "was one of the pioneers of Lee county.... He was a man of sterling character and was possessed of good business ability. His many years of life far exceeding the number allotted to man were but the harvest of his spent days."

Joseph's baptismal records today are on deposit in the Lutheran Theological Seminary Library in Gettysburg, PA.

Rufus' profile in the 1914 book, Story of Lee County, Iowa

Son Rufus Henry Younkin (1836-1928) was born on Aug. 15 or 17, 1836 in Gratiot, Licking/Muskingum Counties, OH. He was profiled in the book Story of Lee County, Iowa, by Nelson Cummins Roberts and Samuel W. Moorhead, which said that he "began his education in one of the old-time log schoolhouses common in frontier districts. When ten years of age he accompanied his parents to Iowa, most of the journey being made by boat by way of St. Louis and Peoria, Illinois." Their first home was in Farmington, Van Buren County, where they stayed for 15 years. Said the Story, "He completed his education in the public schools of Farmington, which he attended through the winter seasons to the age of nineteen years, devoting the summer months to work in the fields upon his father's farm." Then in 1864, Rufus joined his parents in another move to Montrose, Lee County, IA. While in Montrose, on March 31, 1870, the 33-year-old Rufus was joined in wedlock with Blanche A. Sawyer ( ? - ? ), daughter of Thomas and Eliza (Snodgrass) Sawyer of Montroe. The couple's five children were Joseph Samuel Younkin, Thomas S. Younkin, Katy Younkin, Ralph A. Younkin and Susan "Susie" Younkin. "Following their marriage," the Story said, "the young couple began their domestic life upon a farm in Montrose township and for thirty-five years Mr. Younkin continued to devote his energies to general agricultural pursuits and became the owner of an excellent farm of two hundred acres, which is still in his possession. He brought the fields to a high state of cultivation and added all modern accessorities and equipments to his farm." In 1902, he helped organize the Montrose Savings Bank and eventually was elected president. It was founded with $10,000 in capital which by 1911 increased to $20,000. The Story said that the bank "is now in a flourishing condition and is regarded as one of the strong financial enterprises in the county." He also owned property in Los Angeles and is known to have visited the Southern California property in July 1901 as chronicled in the Los Angeles Herald. Rufus also was a town councilman and was Republican in his politics. He also was an active leader with the local Presbyterian Church. Rufus retired in 1905, and he and Blanche moved into the town of Montrose. He passed away in Montrose on June 5, 1928. In summing up Rufus' profile, the Story said that "His life has been guided by high and honorable principles, and upon his industry and his pereseverance he has builded the success which now crowns his efforts."

• Grandson Joseph Samuel Younkin (1871- ? ) was born in 1871.Joseph married Katherine A. (1873-1941). They were the parents of Margaret Younkin, Herbert Younkin, Allan Younkin, Chester Younkin and Gavin Younkin. In 1910-1914, their home was in Arkansas City, KS. When he and his family traveled to visit his parents in July 1910, the news was printed in the gossip columns of the Keokuk Daily Gate City. The Younkins left Arkansas City and moved to Wichita in 1925. They were members of the Wichita Presbyterian Church. In 1941, their address was 908 Spaulding. Katherine passed away in Wichita on March 7, 1941, with burial in Wichita Park Cemetery. Her obituary was printed in the final edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin in 1941.

• Grandson Thomas S. Younkin (1874- ? ) was born in 1874. He was deceased by 1914.

• Granddaughter Katy Younkin (1876- ? ) was born in 1876. She was deceased by 1914.

• Grandson Ralph A. Younkin (1881- ? ) was born in 1881. He migrated to the Pacific Northwest and in 1914 was in Tacoma, WA.

• Granddaughter Susan "Susie" Younkin (1883- ? ) was born in 1883. She was united in matrimony with Harry Wardlaw ( ? - ? ). They dwelled in 1914 in Montrose.

Portrait and Biographical Album of Lee County

Son Samuel Glass Younkin (1839-1919) was born on Sept. 11, 1839 in Gratiot, a village straddling the border of Licking/Muskingum Counties, OH. He was age seven when he accompanied his parents and siblings to Iowa. On Nov. 29, 1866, at the age of 27, he was joined in wedlock with Lucretia Curtis (July 12, 1840-1927), a native of Flint, Genessee County, MI and the daughter of Daniel and Emily (Woodford) Curtis of Montrose, Lee County, IA. The couple produced four offspring -- Henry Albert Younkin, Cora Belle Fisher, Samuel Curtis Younkin and William Younkin. Heartache blanketed the family in 1872 when eldest son Henry died at the age of about one on March 16, 1872. When the 1887 book Portrait and Biographical Album of Lee County was published, Samuel was featured in a lengthy biographical profile. The bio noted that he was "an honored pioneer of the Hawkeye State [and] is a prominent and successful farmer and stock-breeder, and occupies a fine homestead on section 4, Montrose Township."

He came to the State of Iowa when it was in its infancy, and has marked its development and progress with gratified interest. He has also aided materially in the opening up of this section, having been one of its most energetic and enterprising settlers. His own early example of industry and economy not only stimulated his neighbors to their best exertions, but he has given cheerfully and liberally of his time and means for the encouragement of every good work and purpose whose object has been to advance the interests of his county and township. He has met with difficulties and discouragements like most other men, but has suffered nothing to move him from his purpose of becoming a man among men and a useful and worthy citizen. That he has succeeded in this is clearly indicated by the esteem in which he is held among his fellow-citizens.

The family homestead is one of the attractive spots of Lee County. Mr. Younkin is quite extensively engaged in the breeding of high-grade stock, consisting of Short-horn cattle and Berkshire hogs. He occupies a fine farm dwelling, has a good barn, and everythign necessary for the convenient storing of grain, and the shelter of stock.

Obituary, 1919

Samuel was elected to several offices in the Montrose Township governance body. He and Lucretia were active members of the local Presbyterian Church. Samuel passed away in Montrose at the age of 80 on Sept. 14, 1919. His remains were interred in Montrose Cemetery, with Rev. Alva S. Covert officiating. An obituary was printed in the local newspaper, which said that "Mr. Younkin was of that class of men who make communities worth while and who are the strength of the state and the nation and who stabilize society. He was honest and straightforward. he believed in men and in the best things and he went about the tasks of life with such heartiness that it gave him success. While never physically strong, yet he so managed his farming as to keep always ahead of the job. He was therefore one of the model farmers of the community. No boy or young man ever came in touch with him that if they took the advice kindly given were better for it. Mr. Younkin was a model husband and father, for his insight into the needs of his family, made him very attentive to every obligation of the home, and his home was one of the happy ones in which it visit to live and grow up. Mr. Younkin will be missed in the church. While not on the church roll yet he read and believed his bible, he trusted in the atonement Jesus the Christ has made and was one of those who gave the larger gifts. He will be missed in the business life of the community and especially in his home and by his large circle of relatives and intimate friends." Lucretia survived as a widow for eight years. She died in Montrose at age 86 on July 7, 1927.

• Granddaughter Cora Belle Younkin (1876-1937) was born on Oct. 5, 1876 in Montrose. In Sept. 1900, when she was 23 years of age, she was joined in marriage with New York native Rev. William Edward Fisher 1872 1937 ), who at the time was pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Montrose. News of the marriage was reported in the Montrose (IA) Journal. The couple made a home in 1919 in Ackley, IA.

• Grandson Samuel "Curtis" Younkin (1878-1967) was born on Sept. 11, 1878 in Montrose. On Dec. 27, 1900, in nuptials held at the bride's residence in Montrose, he wedded Ruth Grimes ( ? - ? ). A story about the wedding in the Montrose (IA) Journal said that the couple would live on the farm of Curtis' father. Circa 1919, their home was in Montrose. He died in 1967.

• Grandson William Younkin (1880-1947) was born on March 28, 1880 in Montrose. He appears to have spent most or all of his life in the town where he was birthed. On June 5, 1907, William was united in wedlock with Mary Elizabeth Carrick ( ? - ? ). They produced three known offspring -- Glenn Younkin, Stuart G. Younkin and Ida Ruth Miller. He died in Montrose on March 14, 1947. Mary Elizabeth outlived her husband by 35 years. She passed into eternity in Montrose on Aug. 30, 1982. Their son Stuart, a longtime employee of Campbell Soup company and vice president of its agricultural research was profiled in Who's Who in America (1978-1979).

Daughter Caroline Matilda Younkin (1852-1898) was born on Christmas Day 1852, likely in Farmington, Van Buren County, IA. She is known to have died at the age of 45 on Sept. 14, 1898.

~ Daughter Sarah “Sally” (Younkin) Trout ~

Sarah “Sally” Younkin (1801- ? ) was born in 1801 near Lovettsville, Loudoun County, VA, presumed by researcher Donna (Younkin) Logan to be of this family.

On Nov. 28, 1823, in Perry County, OH, at the age of 22, she was joined in holy wedlock with 25-year-old Johannes "John" Trout (March 13, 1798-1836), also a native of Lovettsville and the son of Casper and Mary Ann (Ament) Trout. Her brother "Squire" John Younkin, a local justice of the peace -- who was married to John Trout's sister Margaret -- performed the nuptials ceremony.

The couple initially made their home in Ohio. Their children were Eli Trout, Harrison Trout, Mary Jane Trout and William Trout.

Sadly, John died young -- age about 37 or 38 -- in 1836. His remains were placed into eternal rest in Holcomb Cemetery in Yellowtown, Perry County..

Then in the Spring Term 1845, in Perry County Court of Common Pleas, the widowed Sarah along with Harrison Trout, Mary Jane Trout and William Trout were sued by John Younkin and Isaac Bennett in a legal move to partition the family farm so that its proceeds could be divided equally among heirs.

Eli and Charlotte Trout Courtesy Jerry Coffman

The widowed Sarah set her sights on her future and decided that her prospects in the West were appealing. Sometime in the late 1840s, she and her children relocated to Iowa, settling on a farm in Mahaska County. She is shown there in the 1850 and 1860 federal census enumerations. Her farm in 1860 was in Madison Township, and her post office was Oskaloosa.

Charlotte's fate is not yet known.

Son Eli Trout Sr. (1823-1903) was born on March 28, 1823 in Beaver City, Perry County, OH. During the 1850s, he married New York native Charlotte Mettler (Sept. 1823/1828-1901). They initially lived near Oskaloosa, Mahaska County, IA and were the parents of Sodema (?) Trout, Ira Trout, George Trout, Eli Trout Jr., John W. Trout, Lusetta M. Dunsmoor and Irvin Ellis Trout. Eli successfully obtained a patent on 40 acres of "Des Moines River Land" in Mahaska County. When the federal census enumeration was made in 1880, Eli and Charlotte resided in Madison Township, Mahaska County, near to the homeplace of his brother Harrison. During the period between 1880 and 1900, the couple pushed into Nebraska and settled in Western, Johnson County. During the winter of 1893, wrote S.B. McVey in the Religious Telescope newspaper, Eli "was converted and joined the United Brethren Church ... and remained an esteemed and faithful member until the day of his death." The 1900 U.S. Census shows them as boarders in the home of their married daughter Lusetta Dunsmoor and family. are known to have been in Lewiston, Johnson County, NE. Sadly, Charlotte passed into eternity in Crab Orchard, Johnson County on Jan. 7, 1901. Eli outlived her by about two years and died at the age of 78 on Jan. 20, 1903. Burial was in Vesta Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Sodema (?) Trout (1852- ? ) was born in about 1852 in Mahaska County, IA.

• Grandson Ira Trout (1854- ? ) was born in about 1854 in Mahaska County, IA. Unmarried at the age of 26 in 1880, he worked as a farmer on his parents' farm in Mahaska County.

• Grandson George Trout (1855-1936) was born on Dec. 29, 1855 in Oskaloosa, Mahaska County, IA. When he was 23 years of age, on Jan. 9, 1879, he wedded Mary Margaret Pickrell (April 26, 1858-1930), daughter of Jacob and Rachel (Marmon) Pickrell. The wedding ceremony was held in Oskaloosa, Mahaska County, IA. They relocated to Nebraska after the birth of their eldest son circa 1881-1882 and dwelled in Johnson County. Their home in 1900 was in close proximity to the residences of George's parents, married sister Lusetta Dunsmoor and brother Irvin. They produced three known children, Linneaus Trout, Dora Trout and Clarence Gilbert Trout. Then in about 1905, they moved to York, NE. George and his brother Irvin are known to have traveled to Crested Butte, NE in August 1921 to spend a week visiting with their nephew Carlton "Carl" Dunsmore. Mary Margaret died at the age of 72 in York on July 26, 1930. An obituary in the Lincoln Nebraska State Journal said she had lived in York for 24 years. George lived for another five-plus years and was carried away by the Angel of Death at the age of 78 on Dec. 8, 1936. They are buried in Vesta, NE.

Great-grandson Linneaus "Lineous" Trout (1880- ? ) was born in Dec. 1880 in Iowa. Circa 1930, he dwelled in Lincoln, NE.

Great-granddaughter Dora Trout (1883- ? ) was born in April 1883 in Nebraska. She married (?) Manning and lived in York, NE in 1930. Then by 1936, she was wedded to Elmer Monnismith of York.

Great-grandson Clarence Gilbert Trout (1885- ? ) was born in Jan. 1885 in Nebraska. He resided in Hayes Center in 1930 and in Culbertson in 1936.

• Grandson Eli Trout Jr. (1860- ? ) was born in about 1860 near Oskaloosa, Mahaska County, IA.

• Grandson John W. Trout (1860-1938) was born in about 1860 in Iowa. He grew up on his parents' farm and in 1880, at the age of 26, lived at home and earned a living as a farmer. He was married to (?) Stevens ( ?- ? ). She had been married previously and brought two sons to the union -- Ray Stevens and Lee Stevens. The couple bore two sons of their own -- Myron Trout and Byron Trout. They lived in Blue Springs near Beatrice, NE in 1911 and in October that year attended the county fair. Their residence in 1928 was Wymore, NE. Sadly, John's wife died on Jan. 22, 1928 "after suffering with cancer for more than a year," said the Beatrice (NE) Daily Sun. Funeral services were held in the Methodist Church, preached by Rev. Trowbridge. Said the Daily Sun, "The large number of friends present and the many floral offerings showed the deep respect in which the deceased was held in the community." In late December 1936, John and Mr./Mrs. Ray Stevens and Myron Trout traveled to Vesta, NE to attend the funeral of John's brother George. John succumbed at the age of 78 on Feb. 28, 1938. An obituary in the Daily Sun noted that he had been a Wymore resident for 25 years. In addition to his son Byron, those who traveled to attend John's funeral were Mr. and Mrs. C.O. Trout, Mr. and Mrs. Laverne Trout, Mrs. Alice Whitehead and Mr. and Mrs. Lane.

Great-grandson Byron Trout ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). He was married. Byron made his home in 1923 in Bloomfield, Knox County, NE and in 1938 in Bloomington, Franklin County, NE. When his father died in the winter of 1938, Byron and his wife traveled to Wymore for the funeral.

Great-grandson Myron Trout lived at home in Wymore, NE in 1928.

Step-great-grandson Ray Stevens dwelled in Wymore in 1938.

Step-great-grandson Lee Stevens resided in 1938 in Grand Island, NE.

• Granddaughter Lusetta M. Trout (1862- ? ) was born in May 1862 in Iowa. In about 1884, when she was age 21, she wedded Albert M. Dunsmoor (April 1863- ? ) of Iowa. The couple were the parents of Eleanor Dunsmoor, Etta Dunsmoor, Carlton "Carl" Dunsmoor, Edna Dunsmoor, Harry Dunsmoor, Chester A. Dunsmoor, Myrtle Dunsmoor and Wilbur Dunsmoor. Sadly, three of the children died prior to 1910. Sometime between 1883 and 1885, they migrated to Nebraska and settled on a farm in Western District, Johnson County. In 1892, at the birth of their son Harry, they were in South Dakota, but soonafter returned to Nebraska. The 1900 U.S. Census shows this family in Western, with Lusetta's parents boarding under their roof. During the decade between 1900 and 1910, the Dunsmoors migrated to Colorado and in 1910 are listed as living there in Fowler Township, Otero County. In Fowler, Albert was proprietor of a grocery store, while son Carl was a salesman at the store and son Harry the driver of a delivery wagon. By 1920, in Otero County's Precinct 26, he had given up the store and was listed as a farmer in the U.S. Census, with his married son Chester living next door. Sadly, Lusetta died during the 1920s. Census records for 1930 show the widowed Albert heading a farming household in Fowler with 24-year-old son Wilbur under his roof.

Great-granddaughter Eleanor Dunsmoor (1883- ? ) was born in Dec. 1883 in Iowa.

Great-granddaughter Etta Dunsmoor (1885- ? ) was born in Aug. 1885 in Nebraska.

Great-grandson Carlton L. "Carl" Dunsmoor (1887-1981) was born in Nov. 1887 in Nebraska or South Dakota. (Sources differ.) At the age of 21, in 1910, he lived with his parents in Fowler, CO and worked as a salesman in his father's grocery store. He married Laura (1897- ? ), a native of North Carolina. The couple's known children were Agatha K. Dunsmoor and Marion F. Dunsmoor. They dwelled on a farm in Precinct 26, Otero County, CO in 1920 and at Crested Butte, CO in 1921. In late August 1921, Carl hosted a visit from his uncles George and Irvin Trout of Nebraska City, as noted in the gossip columns of the Nebraska State Journal. When he was age 48, in 1935, he married again to Eva Violet Porter (July 17, 1893-1955). In Jan. 1981, at the age of 93, Carlton died in Colorado. Burial was in New Hope Cemetery in Fremont County.

Great-granddaughter Edna Dunsmoor (1889- ? ) was born in Oct. 1889 in Nebraska.

Great-grandson Harry Dunsmoor (1892- ? ) was born on Oct. 9, 1892 in South Dakota. When he was 17, in 1910, he drove a delivery wagon for his father's retail grocery store in Fowler, CO. In 1919, he was united in marriage with Sallie Pearl Bevard (1895-1975). Their home in 1920 was in Fowler, Otero County, CO, where he made a living as a driver with an automobile livery. At the age of 87, he was cut down by the Grim Reaper in Florence, Fremont County, CO on Oct. 23, 1979. Burial was in Fowler Cemetery in Otero County.

Great-grandson Chester Olas Dunsmoor (1895-1979) was born on March 30, 1895 in Nebraska. At the age of 23, in about 1918, Chester wedded 18-year-old Gladys "Fay" Crites (1899-1985), a native of Oklahoma. Their one known son was Donald L. Dunsmoor. Chester served as a private in the U.S. Army during World War I. The couple dwelled next to his parents in Precinct 26, Otero County, CO in 1920. By 1930, Chester had secured employment as janitor of a public school in Fowler, Otero County. He died on April 21, 1979 and is buried in Fowler Cemetery in Otero County.

Great-granddaughter Myrtle Dunsmoor (1900- ? ) was born in 1900 in Nebraska.

Great-grandson Wilbur Dunsmoor (1905- ? ) was born in 1905 in Nebraska. In 1920, at 14 years of age, Wilbur assisted his father with work on the home farm in Otero County, CO. He died at the age of 36 on March 23, 1942 in Fowler, Otero Couinty. An obituary was published in the Fowler Tribune, and burial took place in Fowler Cemetery.

• Grandson Irvin Ellis Trout (1864-1932) was born on Nov. 28, 1864 near Oskaloosa, Mahaska County, IA. In about 1888, when he was age 24, he was united in matrimony with Minnie Alta Pickrell (Jan. 24, 1868-1936), daughter of William Henry and Katherine Alma McKee (Michael) Pickrell. The couple bore these known sons -- LeRoy E. Trout, Orville Trout, Harold Harvey Trout and Hubert LaVerne Trout. Within a few years of marriage, the Trouts left Iowa and relocated to Nebraska, putting down roots on a farm next to his sister Lusetta Dunsmoor in Western District, Johnson County. Irvin and his brother George are known to have traveled to Crested Butte, NE in August 1921 to spend a week visiting with their nephew Carlton "Carl" Dunsmore. At the age of 67, Irvin died in Crab Orchard, Johnson County on March 23, 1932. His remains were lowered into eternal repose in Vesta Cemetery in Johnson County. As a widow, Minnie survived for another four years. She joined her husband in death on Feb. 1, 1936. Rev. Murdock preached the funeral, and a male quartet provided vocal music, among them Rev. Smitheram and Messrs. Bryson, Marshall and Shelley. In reporting on her funeral, the Beatrice Daily Sun said that "Relatives from a distance to attend were John Trout and son Myron of Wymore. The roads were badly drifted and extra work was necessary to open them."

Great-grandson Leroy E. Trout ( ? - ? ) may have died young.

Great-grandson Orville Trout (1891- ? ) was born in Oct. 1891 in Nebraska.

Great-grandson Harold Harvey Trout (1895- ? ) was born in Jan. 1895 in Nebraska.

Son Harrison Trout (1827-1910) was born on March 10, 1827 or 1830 in Ohio. He never learned to write. At the age of 33 in 1860, unmarried, he lived with his widowed mother near Oskaloosa, Mahaska County, IA and earned a living as a farmer. Then in about 1866, he was joined in holy wedlock with widow Elizabeth J. (Cruzen) McLean (March 8, 1939-1918). She appears to have been married before to Jonathan McClean (1839-1863) and brought offspring to the second union, Charles H.M. McClean and Jennie G. McClean. When in 1880 the United States Census was taken, the family lived near Harrison's brother Eli and family and Elizabeth's relatives James and Jerome Cruzen in Madison Township, Mahaska County. They made a longtime home in Mahaska. Harrison entered eternity on Oct. 5, 1910. Elizabeth passed away on New Year's Day 1918. They are buried in Madison Cemetery in Mahaska County.

• Step-grandson Charles H.M. McClean

• Step-granddaughter Jennie G. McClean

Presumed daughter Mary Jane Trout ( ? - ? ) is only known from when she was named in a lawsuit where her mother and siblings were sued to force a division of the family farm in Perry County, Ohio.

Son William Trout (1831- ? ) was born in about 1831.