Ancestral Trails Genealogy ~ Life in the Past Lane

An ongoing family history research project by David A. Walker

Person Page 998

Kevin David O' Rourke1

M, #49859, b. 23 September 1950, d. 25 September 1950

Parents

FatherKenneth Lewis O' Rourke, , Sr b. 24 March 1921
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
BirthKevin David O' Rourke was born on 23 September 1950, in Rapid City, Pennington County, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathHe died on 25 September 1950 in Rapid City, Pennington County, South Dakota, USAG.1
BurialHe was buried in Rapid City, Pennington County, South Dakota, USAG.2

Citations

  1. [S1017] Alice Agnes (Quick) & Kenneth O'Rourke, "Alice Agnes (Quick) & Kenneth O'Rourke, compiled family records", (Clearlake, California). . Hereinafter cited as "Alice Agnes (Quick) & Kenneth O'Rourke, compiled family records".
  2. [S1113] Edward Hirum & Eveleyn Mae Nilson, "Nilson Family Ancestry & History", 1993. . Hereinafter cited as "Nilson Family Ancestry & History".

Daniel 'Dan' Able Ruland1

M, #49869, b. 22 August 1857, d. 15 April 1945

Parents

FatherJackson Washington Ruland b. 14 September 1828
MotherMary Marie Dillon b. 5 July 1832
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NoteDaniel Able Ruland was born on the 22nd of August, 1857, to Jackson W.and Mary Marie Ruland (Mary Marie's parentage is not known at this time1997), pioneer mercantile business owners at Rock Port, Missouri. Aftergraduating from Rockport High School he worked for a time as a typesetterin a printing office. Dan said he smoked but the haze became so thick hecouldn't see the type by coal oil lamp so he switched to 'chewing'. When he was nineteen he and Jerrett Todd decided to see the world and setout for the west coast en route to Hong Kong. On the 4th of July, 1876,they arrived in Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado, where a celebration was inprogress. They witnessed a horse race between whites and Ute Indians. Here they learned of the Black Hills Gold Rush and decided to give up the ideaof Hong Kong, so headed north. Dan got a job in Cheyenne driving afreight wagon to Deadwood, arriving there in March 1877 with a four-horsewagon load of flour which sold for $22. cwt. from the wagon. Payment wasmade in gold dust. He also freighted from Sidney, Nebraska. In the summer of 1881, Dan worked for James A. Newland, father of JamesI. Newland, of Colony, on the first irrigation canal from Redwater Riverto Fruitdale, Dakota Territory. He later recalled that the horses wereknee deep in dust pulling the fresnos and scrapers and he would lookwestward to the Bear Lodge Mountains and see rain several days a week. He knew then wherehe was to eventually settle. Dan returned to Rock Port that late fall and on the 18th of May, 1882, heand two companions headed north with a herd of Shorthorn cattle. Theyarrived on False Bottom Creek, east of Spearfish, Dakota Territory, onthe 11th of July after a fifty-two day trip. The cattle were then trailedto Beaver Creek on the west side of the Bear Lodge Mountains (where his son Dillon now lives).There he cut 102 loads of wild hay with a scythe and cradle and stackedit. This he estimated would be one hay rack load for each head oflivestock, an ample amount for the winter ahead. He fenced the stack withAspen poles and built a dug-out for a cabin. His closest neighbor was Jess Lincoln Driskill onthe T+T Ranch at the mouth of Beaver Creek by the Belle Fourche River, adistance of about fifteen miles. Due to the extreme cold and deep snow that winter, Dan finally kicked thepoles from the stack fence and let the livestock eat their way into thehay for food and warmth. Even then many of the cattle were lost toexposure. Dan’s diary relates that on a fall day in 1883, he rode to a lake abouttwo and one half miles southwest to hunt deer. What he encountered was agrizzly bear which he shot with his .44 carbine rifle. The animal was solarge he couldn't’t move it to dress out. The next morning he rode toJohn Pearson’s sawmill for help. When his friend, Green Todd, a bearhunter saw the skin he declared it was the largest he had ever seen. In the spring of 1884 Dan filed on a pre-emption on Black Tail Creeksoutheast of the Hulett family. His brand was three lazy BBB’s. Otherbachelors named his cabin “The Guilt Edge” for reasons now unknown. Late one afternoon while hunting for meat Dan saw five buffalo on agrassy ridge with wall rock all around except to the northwest.Positioning himself at this entrance he knew his scent would drift towardthe buffalo. Soon they caught his scent and ran for the only escape. Heshot and dressed them and went back to the cabin, greased the wagon and got his tarps and blankets.Before daylight the next morning he left for Deadwood with the load ofmeat where he sold it to the miners for five cents a pound. On the 23rd of December, 1886, Dan married Lulu Belle French at Sundance,Wyoming Territory. They resided on Black Tail Creek until 1895. Theirson, Dillon Bacon was born on their pre-emption on the 25th of July,1894. A new house was constructed at the head of the southeast fork ofRed Canyon where they ranched until 1908. Then they purchased thetownsite of Alva from Ed McWilliams and built a large two story store andsold groceries, general merchandise, wagons, buggies, and farm machinery.Mrs. Ruland served as postmaster from 1908 to 1914. Dan and Lulu Belle retired in 1916 and moved into a new house in Alvawhere they lived the rest of their lives. Dan passed away in his sleepthe 15th of April, 1945, and was laid to rest in the Alva Cemetery. This account is stated in the book - 'Pioneers Of Crook County1876-1920', by the Historical Society of Crook County, Crook County,Wyoming, copyright 1981, Pages 436-437, pictures on page 436.
BirthDaniel 'Dan' Able Ruland was born on 22 August 1857, in Rockport, Atchison County, Missouri, USAG.1
MarriageHe married Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing daughter of Mahlon Birdsey Dewing and Amada Charlotte Bacon, on 23 December 1886, in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1
DeathDaniel 'Dan' Able Ruland died on 15 April 1945 in Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1
BurialHe was buried in Alva Cemetery North Side, Lot 173, Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.2

Child with Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946

SonDillon Bacon Ruland+ b. 25 July 1894, d. 14 August 1982

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S1034] More Hullett Area Past & Present, Hullet Area Senior Citizens, compiler, (Hullett, Ontario: Hullet Area Senior Citizens). Hereinafter cited as More Hullett Area Past & Present.

Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing1

F, #49870, b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946

Parents

FatherMahlon Birdsey Dewing b. 20 June 1833, d. 5 May 1879
MotherAmada Charlotte Bacon b. 4 January 1838, d. 4 July 1896
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameLulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing was also known as Lulu 'Belle' Belle Ruland.
NameShe was also known as Lulu 'Belle' Belle French.
NoteLulu Belle Dewing was born the 22 of January, 1857, at White Creek, AdamsCounty, Wisconsin to Mahon Dewing and Amanda Bacon. Their ancestors aretraced to Lord Bacon of England and to Benjamin Franklin. On the 6th of October, 1875 she married Charles Worthington French. Theymoved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where Lulu Amanda was born the 12th ofAugust, 1877. In 1878 they moved to Dakota Territory near Egan, where Charles’ parentshad filed on land by 'Squatters Right.' Charles also filed on land anda sod house was erected on the rolling prairie. Belle twisted tallprairie grass to use as fuel along with cow chips. Charles freighted fromFlandreau to Egan. Here two children were born, Lana, the 9th of July,1879 and Victor Mahon, the 1st of June, 1881. Their neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Louis M. Hulett and family decided to go onwest with California as their destination. However, the country west ofthe Black Hills proved very favorable after a three hundred fifty milejourney. With winter soon to be upon them, they decided to settle on whatwas later named Hulett Creek, northeast Wyoming Territory. They enlargeda trappers dugout in which they spent the winter. The next spring theymoved to Black Tail Creek, the first family to settle in the area. Huletts wrote to the Frenches about the wonderful opportunities here, andencouraged them to come where there was plenty of land for farming, goodstreams, plenty of timber for building and firewood, wild game and furbearing animals. In June 1883 the Frenches, accompanied by Charlie Pettit, an elderlyone-armed man, and twenty-seven year old Charlie Dunlap, started forWyoming in a covered wagon containing a large wall tent, cook stove, andother belongings, pulled by a span of large mules. Twice they encounteredIndians with whom they shared their food and were left to travel on. Theyarrived at the Huletts the 9th of June, 1883. Along the way they met DaveDerrickson and George Richards families, also going to the Black Hills. The tent served as their home while the men erected a log house near thepresent town of Hulett, Wyoming. The five large logs for each side wererolled up with the mules, small logs were split then hewed smooth as aboard, called puncheon, for the floor. Smaller logs were split for theroof, then covered with hay. A half window and lumber were purchased inSpearfish, South Dakota for one dollar and fifty cents. Wooden hingeswere made for the door. The next spring French, Pettit and Dunlap returned to Dakota Territorynever to head west again, taking the wagon, mules and tent. This leftMrs. French and the three children with only an old white horse boughtfrom the 'D' cattle ranch for ten dollars. With a garden and meatsupplied by the cowboys and others the family managed very well. Mrs.French also made gloves from tanned skins which she sold to the cowboysfor one dollar a pair. The following year the concern for a school resulted in a meeting withWilliam Draper of Sundance, Wyoming. He had been appointed to see aboutschool interests in what later became Crook County. The interview provedsatisfactory and they were allowed twenty five dollars for a schoolhouseand fifty dollars for a period of six months for a teacher. Mrs. Frenchconsented to teach, however, she was required to take an examinationbefore the nearest County Superintendent of Schools at Deadwood, DakotaTerritory. The journey was made on horseback. The papers were forwardedto the Superintendent of Schools at Cheyenne, Wyoming. Lulu Belle Dewing Frenchbecame the first school teacher in the Hulett, Wyoming area. Mr. Hulett, with the help of cowboys, built a log Schoolhouse withbenches and a table. Pupils were Attie, Tom and Morgon Hulett, Lulu andLana French and Billie St. John, sixteen year old who came from Texaswith a trail herd and was staying at the 'D' winter camp in Barlow Canyon. On the 23rd of December, 1886, Lulu Belle and Dan A. Ruland were marriedin Sundance and lived on his pre-emption on Black Tail Creek. Their son,Dillon, was born the 25th of July, 1894. Later they moved to a ranch southwest of Alva, Wyoming, where they madetheir home until 1908. Then they bought the present townsite of Alva fromMr. and Mrs. Edward McWilliams. Mr. Ruland was appointed postmaster whenMrs. McWilliams resigned to move to College View, Nebraska. Alva continued to be their home the rest of their lives. Dan Rulandpassed away in April 1945 and Lulu Belle in August 1946. Both were laidto rest in the Alva Cemetery. This account was copied from the book and compiled by Frances Olivia(Nilson) Ruland - 'Pioneers Of Crook County 1876-1920', by the CrookCounty Historical Society, Crook County, Wyoming, copyright. 1981 pages437-438, and pictures on page 436 and in Lulu's scrapbook. A poem written by Belle, BEAVER CREEK HOMEMAKERS CLUB We are glad the County Agent came out in sticks, To establish a Club for we poor country hicks. We've found we have brains though dormant they lay, Without an incentive to bring them into play. Our husbands who called it 'Homewrecking Club' Now make it convenient to come the 'Hub.' To bring in members, to meet with others. While they stick around to visit their brothers. They praise, too, the articles made without cost From material that would have been lost. If we had not found (now this is no pun) That two heads are always better than one. With twenty fertile brains combined When all are of one heart and mind. Just that, what twenty can complete By pooling ideas from brains so replete. We'll make Achievement Day a hummer When we meet at close of summer. Composed by Charter member Mrs. Dan (Belle) Ruland April 1937 for the Homemakers Messenger.
BirthShe was born on 22 January 1859, in White Creek, Adams County, Wisconsin, USAG.1
MarriageShe married Charles Worthington French on 6 October 1875, in Egan, Moody County, South Dakota, USAG.2
MarriageShe married Daniel 'Dan' Able Ruland son of Jackson Washington Ruland and Mary Marie Dillon, on 23 December 1886, in Sundance, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1
DeathLulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing died on 17 August 1946 in Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1
BurialShe was buried in Alva Cemetery North Side, Lot 173, Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.3

Children with Charles Worthington French

DaughterLulu Amanda French+ b. 12 August 1877, d. May 1976
DaughterLana French+ b. 8 July 1879, d. 1980
SonVictor Mahon French b. 1 June 1881, d. October 1967

Child with Daniel 'Dan' Able Ruland b. 22 August 1857, d. 15 April 1945

SonDillon Bacon Ruland+ b. 25 July 1894, d. 14 August 1982

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S1092] Mary Gertrude Morris (nee Seeley) Mahoney, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (Wyoming, U.S.A.: Crook County Historical Society, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  3. [S1034] More Hullett Area Past & Present, Hullet Area Senior Citizens, compiler, (Hullett, Ontario: Hullet Area Senior Citizens). Hereinafter cited as More Hullett Area Past & Present.

Charles Worthington French1

M, #49871
Last Edited 9 April 2023 00:00:00
NoteOn 06 October, 1875, Charles married Lulu Belle Dewing in Egan, MoodyCounty, South Dakota. They moved to Eau Claire, Eau Claire County,Wisconsin, where Lulu Amanda was born on the 12the of August, 1877. In 1878 they moved to Dakota Territory near Egan, where Charle's parentshad filed on land by 'Squatters Right.' Charles also filed on land and asod house was erected on the rolling prairie. Belle twisted tall prairiegrass to use for fuel along with cow chips. Charles freighted fromFlandreau, Moody County and Egan, Moody County. Here, two children wereborn, Lana, 09, July, 1879 and Victor Mahon, 01, June, 1881. Their neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Louis M. Hulett and family decided to gowest with California as their destination .... However, the country westof the Black Hills proved very favorable after a three hundred and fiftymile journey. With winter soon to be upon them, they decided to settleon what was later named Hulett Creek, northwest of the Litter MissouriButtes in northwest Wyoming Territory. They enlarged a trappers dugoutin which they spent the winter. The next spring they moved to Black TailCreek, the first family to settle in the area. Huletts wrote to the Frenches about the wonderful opportunities here, andencouraged them to come where there was plenty of land for farming, goodstreams, plenty of timber for building and firewood, wild game and furbearing animals. In June, 1883 the Frenches, accompanied by Charlie Pettit, an elderlyone-armed man, and twenty-seven year old Charles Dunlap, started forWyoming in a covered wagon containing a large wall tent, cook stove, andother belongings, pulled by a span of large mules. Twice theyencountered Indians with whom they shared their food and were left totravel on. They arrived at the Huletts on the 9th of June, 1883. Alongthe way they had met the Dae Derrickson and George Richards families,also going to the Black Hills. The tent served as their home while the men erected a log house near thepresent town of Hulett, Crook County, Wyoming. The five large logs foreach side were rolled up with the mules, smaller logs were split for theroof, the covered with hay. A half window and lumber were purchased inSpearfish, South Dakota for one dollar and fifty cents. Wooden hingeswere made for the door. The next spring French, Pettit, and Dunlap returned to the DakotaTerritory never to head west again, taking the wagon, mules and tent.This left Mrs. French and the three children with only an old white horsebought from the 'D' cattle ranch for ten dollars. With a garden and meatsupplied by the cowboys and others, the family managed very well. Mrs.French also made gloves from tanned skins which she sold to the cowboysfor one dollar a pair. The following year the concern for a school resulted in a meeting withWilliam Draper of Sundance. He had been appointed to see about schoolinterests in what later became Crook County. The interview provedsatisfactory and they allowed five dollars for a schoolhouse and fiftydollars for a period of six months for a teacher. Mrs. French consentedto teach, however, she was required to take an examination before thenearest County Superintendent of Schools in Deadwood Dakota Territory.The journey was made on horseback. The papers were forwarded to theSuperintendent of Schools in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Lulu Belle (Dewing)French became the first school teacher in the Hulett, Wyoming area. Mr. Hulett, with the help of cowboys, built a log Schoolhouse withbenches and a table. Pupils were Mattie, Tom and Morgan Hulett, Lulu andLana French and Billie St. John, sixteen year old who came from Texaswith a trail herd and was staying at the 'D' winter camp in Barlow Canyon. This account was contributed by Frances Olivia (Nilson) Ruland in thebook, 'Pioneers Of Crook County 1876-1920', by the Crook CountyHistorical Society, Copyright 1981.
MarriageCharles Worthington French married Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing daughter of Mahlon Birdsey Dewing and Amada Charlotte Bacon, on 6 October 1875, in Egan, Moody County, South Dakota, USAG.2

Children with Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946

DaughterLulu Amanda French+ b. 12 August 1877, d. May 1976
DaughterLana French+ b. 8 July 1879, d. 1980
SonVictor Mahon French b. 1 June 1881, d. October 1967

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S1092] Mary Gertrude Morris (nee Seeley) Mahoney, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (Wyoming, U.S.A.: Crook County Historical Society, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Lulu Amanda French1

F, #49872, b. 12 August 1877, d. May 1976

Parents

FatherCharles Worthington French
MotherLulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameLulu Amanda French was also known as Lulu Amanda Nielsen.
NoteLulu Amanda French was first born to Charles Worthington and Lulu Belle(nee Dewing) French on the 12th of August, 1877. She married GeorgeNielsen in Alva, Wyoming and had six children. Grandma Ruland attended atall these births, as well as many others in the area. Mrs. Nielsen alsowas on hand for many new infants. The closest doctor was in eitherSundance or Spearfish, 50 miles away. Later Hulett did acquire theservices of a doctor but even then most of the births were not attendedby him. George Nielsen died in 1928, leaving Lulu with four teenage children andthe responsibility of a ranch. She managed to hang onto the ranch duringthe depression when many around were unable to do so. All three sons andMerlin O'Haver were on hand at various times to help with the work. Sheremained there until the death of Ray's wife in 1951, when she moved intohis home to help with his young family. At that time, Eldon took overthe ranch. Mrs. Nielsen lived the remainder of her life in Alva near Lillian andfollowing her stroke at the age of 95 Lillian cared for her until herdeath in May of 1976 Alva, Crook County, Wyoming just before her 99thbirthday. Postmasters at the Alva post office have included several members of thisfamily; Lulu Belle (nee Dewing) Ruland, Ben Colvin, Grace (nee Coffey)French, Dillon Ruland and the present one (1981, Merlin O'Haver. This account is stated in the book -- 'Pioneers Of County 1876- 1920', byCrook County Historical Society, Crook County, Wyoming, copyright 1981.
BirthShe was born on 12 August 1877, in Eau Claire, Eau Claire County, Wisconsin, USAG.1
MarriageShe married George Nielsen in November 1901, in Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1
DeathShe died in May 1976 in Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG. Unknown GEDCOM info: Stroke.1

Children with George Nielsen b. 1861, d. 1928

DaughterAnnabelle Nielsen d. 1967
SonArlo Nielsen d. 1952

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Lana French1

F, #49873, b. 8 July 1879, d. 1980

Parents

FatherCharles Worthington French
MotherLulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameLana French was also known as Lana Colvin.
NoteLana (French) Colvin, the daughter of Lulu Belle (Dewing) and Charles W.French, was born 8 July, 1879 at Egan, Moody County, Dakota Territory. She had an older sister, Lulu, and a younger brother, Victor. The family lived on the prairie near Egan for about four years. During this time the mother and children were alone much of the time. About the only visitors were Indians who would stop by expecting a meal even though there was little to eat. However, before long they would be back with fresh game for their hostess. Prairie fires were a terror for settlers. One time a fire headed for the house where the Frenches lived. The mother took the children and wrapped them all in wet blankets and laid down directly in front of the flames.The fire quickly went over them without doing any harm to them. In 1883 the French family moved to Wyoming Territory by covered wagon and mule team. They settled near their former neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. L.M. Hulett, who had come to Wyoming in 1880 from Egan, Dakota Territory. Incidents of the journey as remembered by a little girl - The family had camped near a creek one evening with water only in the holes and Lana and Lulu went to wash their hands and faces in a nearby hole. Lana started to slip into the water, she grabbed onto Lulu and both girls fell into the water. Lana managed to get out and ran to the wagon all wet. Fortunately Lulu was rescued and all ended well. Another incident happened when the wagon tipped over going up a steep bank after crossing the belle Fourche River. A pail fell over Lana’s head and she was almost smothered before it was removed. Living in a tent, then a log house was different then living in a sod house in Dakota. Dirt didn't’t keep falling into everything. Other settlers soon began to arrive with large herds of cattle and, of course, cowboys. Entertainment consisted primarily of the Saturday night square dances. Many rode twenty to thirty miles on horseback and stayed all night. There were very few young ladies and many cowboys so the ladies did not lack escorts. The gentlemen furnished the saddle horses. The ladies wore long divided riding skirts and rode side saddle. Some of the settlers who were arriving were J.C. Ryan, Leander Ripley, Moore, Storms, Cunningham, and George and Ed Barnard. Ed later was shot by a 'D' ranch cowboy. On 9 April, 1899, Lana and Ben P. Colvin were married at his homestead in Red Canyon by the Reverend J.S.F. Wood. Those attending the wedding were her mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Ruland, and their son Dillon, Victor French, Ernest and Walt Willson, Mrs. Ella Pollock and Mrs. Sanderson of Deadwood, South Dakota. Lana Colvin became a charter member of the Beaver Creek Homemakers Club in July 1935 with eighteen members. Lana was always willing to lend her services to either relatives or neighbors in case of sickness or whenever help in any way was needed. She spent her life helping others. At the present time, 1978, Lana is living in the Dorsett Home in Spearfish, South Dakota. She will celebrate her ninety-ninth birthday this summer (1981). More on the life of Ben and Lana Colvin can be found in the history of Ben Pollock Colvin. Ben and Lana were parents of two daughters, Marjorie Ann, born 24 December, 1903, and Mildred, born 24 October, 1905. This account is listed on page 118 and 119 of the book - Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920, by Crook County Historical Society, Crook County,Wyoming, copyright 1981.
BirthShe was born on 8 July 1879, in Egan, Moody County, South Dakota, USAG.1
MarriageShe married Benjamin Russel Pollock Colvin son of Ezekle Colvin and Ella Willson, on 9 April 1899, in Red Canyon, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathLana French died in 1980 in Spearfish, Lawrence County, South Dakota, USAG.1
BurialShe was buried in Alva Cemetery North Side, Lot 99, Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.2

Children with Benjamin Russel Pollock Colvin b. 18 December 1877, d. July 1962

DaughterMarjori Ann Colvin b. 2 December 1903, d. January 1952
DaughterMildred Colvin b. 24 October 1905, d. May 1964

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S1034] More Hullett Area Past & Present, Hullet Area Senior Citizens, compiler, (Hullett, Ontario: Hullet Area Senior Citizens). Hereinafter cited as More Hullett Area Past & Present.

Victor Mahon French1

M, #49874, b. 1 June 1881, d. October 1967

Parents

FatherCharles Worthington French
MotherLulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NoteVictor Mahon French was born at Egan, South Dakota on the 1st of June,1881 to Charles Worthington and Lulu Belle (nee Dewing) French. He was third born and joined two sisters, Lulu Amanda and Lana. In early 1883,the family loaded their covered wagon, and headed west, for the Black Hills. Some very dear friends of theirs, the Hulett family, from Egan,had already decided to settle in the Black Hills, along the Belle Fourcheriver, and had written the French family to see if they would not jointhem. The covered wagon was pulled by two mules, named Bueguard andBonaparte. It took the family six weeks to make the journey. In July,1883, the French family set up their tent in the Hulett’s yard, and livedin it until their log cabin was built, nestled in the trees at the edgeof what now is Hulett. Mr. French set out in search of new frontiers,and the last that was heard of him, he was a guide in NorthernMinnesota. The family never knew what happened to him. Mrs. French rodehorseback to Deadwood, South Dakota, to take an examination, so that shecould teach school, and she became the first teacher in Crook County, in1884. She had to take the children to school with her, and they wouldride one horse, one child in front of her and two behind. Victor Frenchgrew up and attended school in the Hulett area. He was a sixteen yearold boy when he started as a cowboy. He rode for the 3V and the Doutfits, as well as other ranches in the area. He attended businesscollege in Grand Island, Nebraska. French homesteaded in Red Canyon,and in 1907 was married to Grace Coffey. They spent years on the ranch,and some time in Seattle, Washington before moving to Alva to make theirhome. They had three children, Russell, Celia (Mrs. Lee Howard), andGeraldine (Mrs. Willie Beard). Grace French passed away in 1917. In1921, Vic was married to Delia Foley, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota.She was the daughter of Morris and Jane Foley. Her parents had bothpassed away when she was young, and she was staying with the John Mahoneyfamily near Alva. Mr and Mrs. French continued to make their home inAlva, Wyoming, and two children were born to them, Eleanor (Mrs. RayEgan) and Jean (Mrs. Ted Rounds). The Frenches were very active in thecommunity, and were always ready to lend a helping hand. Many timesneighbors would call on Vic to help with veterinary problems, when theyhad sick or injured livestock, and he was always glad to help build thelittle community church at Alva. He was foreman on the construction ofthe Forest Service road into the Bear Lodge from the Gordon ranch, andhorse-drawn equipment was used to build the road. For many years, Mrs.French had the telephone exchange in their home and many people wereserved by this, as it was the only telephone in the area, and messageswere delivered this way. The Frenches farmed and ranched at Alva, usingthe brand IV on their horses and cattle. Mr. French passed away inOctober, 1967, in Rapid City, South Dakota. He had been active on theranch right up until the time of his death. Mrs. French passed away inSeptember, 1973, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where she had been hospitalized. This account was contributed by Russell French and is stated in thebook - 'Pioneers Of Crook County 1876-1920’, by the Crook CountyHistorical Society, Crook County, Wyoming, copyright 1981. See pages 10,177, 178, 438 and a picture on page 177. Picture of Victor and Delia isin their scrapbooks.
BirthVictor Mahon French was born on 1 June 1881, in Egan, Moody County, South Dakota, USAG.1
MarriageHe married Grace Coffey daughter of Rev. Thomas Coffey and Lillie May Hathaway, in 1907, in Red Canyon, South Dakota, USAG.1
MarriageVictor Mahon French married Delia Foley daughter of Morris Foley and Jane, in 1921, in Belle Fourche, Butte County, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathVictor Mahon French died in October 1967 in Rapid City, Pennington County, South Dakota, USAG.1
BurialHe was buried in Alva Cemetery North Side, Lot 100, Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.2

Partner with Grace Coffey b. 1884, d. 1917

Partner with Delia Foley b. 1900, d. September 1973

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S1034] More Hullett Area Past & Present, Hullet Area Senior Citizens, compiler, (Hullett, Ontario: Hullet Area Senior Citizens). Hereinafter cited as More Hullett Area Past & Present.

George Nielsen1

M, #49875, b. 1861, d. 1928
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NoteGeorge Nielson, was born in Denmark in 1861 and came to the United Statesat the age of 21. His first winter here was spent at Blair, Nebraskawhere he knew a family. He lived in a lean-to and frequently awoke tofind snow on his bed. The following year he moved on to Tilford, SouthDakota where there was a Danish settlement. En route, he bought a ticket on the stage linefor a part of the journey but as it turned out he walked most of the waybecause the roads were so muddy that the horses could not pull the heavyload. His first homestead was on Sour Dough Creek northwest of Hulettwhere he spent one winter cutting poles to fence it. He didn't see anyone during that longwinter and about the first of April two cowboys from the J H Ranch rodein to see what had happened to ‘Copenhagen’. He told the story that hewould have frozen that winter if his pet tom cat had not slept on thefoot of his bed and kept his feet warm. He had worked the range as a cowboy prior to taking upthe homestead and returned to the range for summer work and spend thewinters in Tilford. One of his sisters was living there by this time.He had taken up a ranch on the Belle Fourche River about ten miles northof Alva and when he married Lulu Amanda in Alva, he took his wife there to ranch. There were six Neilsen children, Grandma Ruland attended at all of thesebirths, as well as many others in the area. Mrs. Neilsen also was onhand for many new born infants. The closest doctor was in Sundance orSpearfish, 50 miles away. Later Hulett did acquire the services of adoctor but even then most of the births were not attended by him. George Nielsen died in 1928, leaving Lulu with four teenage children andthe responsibility of a ranch. She managed to hang onto the ranch duringthe depression when many around were unable to do so. All three sons andMerlin O’Haver were on hand to help with the work. This account is stated in the book on pages 362, 363 and 364 --'Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920', by Crook County Historical Society, Crook County, Wyoming, copyright 1981.
BirthGeorge Nielsen was born in 1861, in DenmarkG.1
MarriageHe married Lulu Amanda French daughter of Charles Worthington French and Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing, in November 1901, in Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1
DeathGeorge Nielsen died in 1928 in Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1

Children with Lulu Amanda French b. 12 August 1877, d. May 1976

DaughterAnnabelle Nielsen d. 1967
SonArlo Nielsen d. 1952

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Marjori Ann Colvin1

F, #49876, b. 2 December 1903, d. January 1952

Parents

FatherBenjamin Russel Pollock Colvin b. 18 December 1877, d. July 1962
MotherLana French b. 8 July 1879, d. 1980
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameMarjori Ann Colvin was also known as Marjori Ann Goodwin.
BirthShe was born on 2 December 1903, in Red Canyon, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathShe died in January 1952 in Rapid City, Pennington County, South Dakota, USAG. cause of death was cancer.1

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Benjamin Russel Pollock Colvin1

M, #49877, b. 18 December 1877, d. July 1962

Parents

FatherEzekle Colvin d. 1879
MotherElla Willson d. 17 April 1927
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
Biographical Note

Ben Russell Pollock Colvin was the son of Ella and Ezekle Colvin, born in Rock Port, Missouri on 18 December, 1877. His father was killed in a train accident in 1879 and in the fall of 1880, Ben and his mother, Ella, moved to Deadwood, South Dakota. There Ella ran a boarding house for miners at Strawberry Gulch. Ben first attended school in Deadwood. Then in 1890 his mother and stepfather moved to a ranch on the Bell Fourche River, three miles from Hulett, Wyoming. His teachers in the area were Libby Baxter and Nels Davis. In1893, Ben went to Spearfish, South Dakota for school, boarding with Mr. and Mrs. Bill Todds. In 1894 he attended the Spearfish Normal and the next year he went to Business School at Lincoln, Nebraska. In 1896 he attended Business School at Sioux City, Iowa, where he graduated. By 1897, Ben was back in Wyoming working for Driskills on the Round-up. During the roundup, Ed Wolfork, a Cross Anchor cowboy, shot Willie Gillanin an argument. Ben sat up with poor Willie for three nights before he finally died. Ben was determined to have a place of his own and in 1899 filed on a homestead in Red Canyon, between Alva and Hulett, Wyoming. Ben quickly built a home, for on 9 of April, 1899, Miss Lana French became his wife in a ceremony performed in the new house by Reverend J.S.F. Wood. Ben and Lana lived on the homestead for two years, then sold the place to George Morrison and moved to Deadwood, South Dakota. Ben went to work in the Round House of the Chicago Northwestern Railroad. In 1903 they moved to Chadron, Nebraska, and Ben was a fireman on the railroad from Chadron, Nebraska to Deadwood, South Dakota. Two daughters were born to the Colvins, Marjorie Ann, the 2nd of December, 1903 and Mildred, the 24th of October, 1905. In January 1908 railroad ties were being cut on Ben’s former homestead and on others. Vic French had the contract of skidding and hauling them to the Belle Fourche River bank. Vernon Powell and his father built a houseboat and had a contract to float the ties to Belle Fourche, when the ice went out of the river in the spring. Moving back to Wyoming about 1910 or 1911, Ben operated a sawmill in Red Canyon and on Little Beaver Creek. He sold the mill to Ed Willson and the family moved to Alva, Wyoming. They operated a dance hall and restaurant and later a hardware store. Ben was appointed postmaster at Alva 15, September, 1913, a position he held for one year. Later he served as assistant postmaster while the postmaster, Dillon B. Ruland served his country in World War I. In 1922, Ben and Lana moved to Lavoye, Wyoming, just south of Midwest. In partnership with Otto Lundblad, formerly of Aladdin, Wyoming, he operated a meat market during the boom days of that small oil town. This venture ended in tragedy. A gas explosion in their double apartment killed Mr. and Mrs. Lundblad and their two small sons in December 1927. About this time the Salt Creek Bank closed its doors and the Colvins lost all of their savings. Broke and disheartened they returned to their home in Alva, Wyoming. Ben continued to work off and on as a sawyer for Shrum and Jones Sawmills for several years. In November of 1936 Ben had a crew of WPA (Works Project Administration) men working on repairing the bridge south of Alva. In 1942 to 1944 he worked for the Belle Fourche Sugar Mill and 1945 to1947 he was employed by Kewitts Construction Company while they built anew road between Midwest and Casper, Wyoming. In 1951 Ben and Lana moved to Rapid City, South Dakota to care for their oldest daughter. When she died a year later, they returned to Alva. The next ten years were a peaceful time, spent with their family and friends in a quiet community. They celebrated their sixtieth Wedding Anniversary in 1959, just a few miles from where they had started their life together. Ben passed away July, 1962 and was laid to rest in the Alva Cemetery. Ben Colvin’s brand was B<>P.2

BirthBenjamin Russel Pollock Colvin was born on 18 December 1877, in Rock Port, Atchison County, Missouri, USAG.1
MarriageHe married Lana French daughter of Charles Worthington French and Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing, on 9 April 1899, in Red Canyon, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathBenjamin Russel Pollock Colvin died in July 1962 in Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.1
BurialHe was buried in Alva Cemetery North Side; Lot 99, Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.3

Children with Lana French b. 8 July 1879, d. 1980

DaughterMarjori Ann Colvin b. 2 December 1903, d. January 1952
DaughterMildred Colvin b. 24 October 1905, d. May 1964

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981), Pages 117 & 118. Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  3. [S1034] More Hullett Area Past & Present, Hullet Area Senior Citizens, compiler, (Hullett, Ontario: Hullet Area Senior Citizens). Hereinafter cited as More Hullett Area Past & Present.

Mildred Colvin1

F, #49878, b. 24 October 1905, d. May 1964

Parents

FatherBenjamin Russel Pollock Colvin b. 18 December 1877, d. July 1962
MotherLana French b. 8 July 1879, d. 1980
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameMildred Colvin was also known as Mildred Ripley.
NoteMildred Colvin was born 24th of October, 1905 to Ben and Lana (neeFrench) Colvin. Mildred graduated from the Belle Fourche high school andtaught schools in South Dakota and Wyoming. She married Leland Ripley onthe 3rd of January, 1934. They ranched near Colony, Crook County, Wyomingfor several years. They moved to Nebraska where Mildred died fromMultiple Sclerosis in May of 1964. Mildred and Leland had two children,Leland George and Majorie.
BirthShe was born on 24 October 1905, in Red Canyon, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathShe died in May 1964 in Nebraska, USAG. Unknown GEDCOM info: Mutiple Sclerosis.1

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Grace Coffey1

F, #49879, b. 1884, d. 1917

Parents

FatherRev. Thomas Coffey b. 1855, d. July 1930
MotherLillie May Hathaway d. November 1950
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameGrace Coffey was also known as Grace French.
BirthShe was born in 1884, in Hot Springs, Fall River County, South Dakota, USAG.1
MarriageShe married Victor Mahon French son of Charles Worthington French and Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing, in 1907, in Red Canyon, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathGrace Coffey died in 1917 in Red Canyon, South Dakota, USAG.1
BurialShe was buried in Alva Cemetery North Side, Lot 100, Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.2

Partner with Victor Mahon French b. 1 June 1881, d. October 1967

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S1034] More Hullett Area Past & Present, Hullet Area Senior Citizens, compiler, (Hullett, Ontario: Hullet Area Senior Citizens). Hereinafter cited as More Hullett Area Past & Present.

Delia Foley1

F, #49885, b. 1900, d. September 1973

Parents

FatherMorris Foley
MotherJane
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameDelia Foley was also known as Delia French.
BirthShe was born in 1900.1
MarriageShe married Victor Mahon French son of Charles Worthington French and Lulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing, in 1921, in Belle Fourche, Butte County, South Dakota, USAG.1
DeathDelia Foley died in September 1973 in Cheyenne, Laramie County, Wyoming, USAG.1
BurialShe was buried in Alva Cemetery North Side, Lot 100, Alva, Crook County, Wyoming, USAG.2

Partner with Victor Mahon French b. 1 June 1881, d. October 1967

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S1034] More Hullett Area Past & Present, Hullet Area Senior Citizens, compiler, (Hullett, Ontario: Hullet Area Senior Citizens). Hereinafter cited as More Hullett Area Past & Present.

Morris Foley1

M, #49886
Last Edited 24 January 2002 00:00:00
MarriageMorris Foley married Jane.

Child with Jane

DaughterDelia Foley b. 1900, d. September 1973

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Jane1

F, #49887
Last Edited 24 January 2002 00:00:00
NameJane was also known as Jane Foley.
MarriageShe married Morris Foley.

Child with Morris Foley

DaughterDelia Foley b. 1900, d. September 1973

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Mary Marie Dillon1

F, #49888, b. 5 July 1832
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameMary Marie Dillon was also known as Mary Marie Ruland.
BirthShe was born on 5 July 1832, in Hickory Grove, Warren County, Missouri, USAG.2
MarriageShe married Jackson Washington Ruland on 15 May 1853, in Lowell, Missouri, USAG.1

Children with Jackson Washington Ruland b. 14 September 1828

SonLindley Emmet Ruland+ b. 6 March 1855
SonDaniel 'Dan' Able Ruland+ b. 22 August 1857, d. 15 April 1945

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S989] Donald Coy, "Coy descendancy chart, from LDS data", July 1996 (Seattle, Washington). . Hereinafter cited as "Coy descendancy chart, from LDS data".

Jackson Washington Ruland1

M, #49889, b. 14 September 1828
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NoteJackson Washington Ruland moved to Washington, D.C. where he served asa private secretary for two terms, to the Honorable Samuel Dailey, thedelegate in Congress from the Territory of Nebraska. Following this hemoved to New York City where he became the owner of the famous AstorPlace Motel which he managed for many years. This account is found on page 437 & was compiled by Frances Olivia(Nilson) Ruland and copied from the book - 'Pioneers Of Crook County1876-1920', by Crook County Historical Society, copyright 1981.
BirthJackson Washington Ruland was born on 14 September 1828, in Carmichaels, Green County, Pennsyvania, USAG.1
MarriageHe married Mary Marie Dillon on 15 May 1853, in Lowell, Missouri, USAG.1

Children with Mary Marie Dillon b. 5 July 1832

SonLindley Emmet Ruland+ b. 6 March 1855
SonDaniel 'Dan' Able Ruland+ b. 22 August 1857, d. 15 April 1945

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Lindley Emmet Ruland1

M, #49890, b. 6 March 1855

Parents

FatherJackson Washington Ruland b. 14 September 1828
MotherMary Marie Dillon b. 5 July 1832
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NoteLindley Emmet Ruland, eldest of seven children, was born the 6th ofMarch, 1855, on the farm in Calhoun County, Illinois, to his parents,Jackson Washington Ruland and Mary Marie (at this time, his mother’smaiden name nor her parentage are not known 1997). Finishing school at Rockport, Missouri, where his parents moved, helearned the painting, paperhanging and decorating trade. Lindley lived with his father in New York for a time and plied hisdecorating trade. He met and married Minnie Davidson, a lass from Ireland. In 1898 Lindley, Minnie and four children, Birdie, Alexander, Emmet,and Marguerite arrived in Belle Fourche, South Dakota by train. They weremet by relatives and lived for a time near his brother, Dan and family.Later they filed on a homestead on Beaver Creek four miles east of Alva,Wyoming. Lindley's brand was a capital HT, the T had a bar under it.This area is still known as the Ruland Gulch. They erected a frame houseand their water came from a nearby spring. The children attended theBeaver Creek School, which was built in 1896 and is still standing. In 1910, they sold their ranch and moved to Moscow, Idaho. Later theymoved to Los Angeles, California, where they lived the rest of theirlives. This account was compiled by Frances Olivia (Nilson) Ruland, and copiedfrom the book - 'Pioneers Of Crook County 1876-1920, by the Crook CountyHistorical Society, Crook County, Wyoming, 1981 copyright 1981. Page437. Lindley's brand is pictured on page 16 in the book 'Hulett Area Pastand Present', compiled, Published & Distributed by Hulett Area SeniorCitizens, Inc., Printed by Sand Creek Pring, Belle Fourche, South Dakota.
BirthLindley Emmet Ruland was born on 6 March 1855, in on parent's farm, Calhoun County, Illinois, USAG.1
MarriageHe married Minnie Davidson in New York City, Manhatten County, New York, USAG.1

Child with Minnie Davidson

DaughterMary 'Birdie' Ann Ruland b. 12 May 1889, d. 21 December 1951

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Minnie Davidson1

F, #49891
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameMinnie Davidson was also known as Minnie Ruland.
BirthShe was born, in IrelandG.1
MarriageShe married Lindley Emmet Ruland son of Jackson Washington Ruland and Mary Marie Dillon, in New York City, Manhatten County, New York, USAG.1

Child with Lindley Emmet Ruland b. 6 March 1855

DaughterMary 'Birdie' Ann Ruland b. 12 May 1889, d. 21 December 1951

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Rev. Thomas Coffey

M, #49892, b. 1855, d. July 1930
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NoteThomas M. Coffey was born in Missouri in 1855 and graduated from theTheological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. He moved to Iowa and married Lillie May Hathaway on the 5th of July,1883. Reverend and Mrs. Coffey had their first church in West Grove,Iowa and had churches in Jessup and Dow City, Elk Point and Hot Springs,South Dakota. Six children were born to Thomas and Lillie. Grace Coffey French, AllenCoffey, Inez Coffey Noonan, Maud Coffey Hooper, Myna Coffey Meyer, andPaul Coffey. Maud lives in Sundance, Wyoming and Paul in Rapid City,South Dakota. In 1904 the ‘Coffey’ moved from Hot Springs, South Dakota to Hulett,Wyoming. They arrived in Aladdin by train and then on to Hulett by teamand wagon. They settled first on the Dick Bush place east of Hulett andlater filed on a homestead on the Belle Fourche river. Reverend Coffey and the parishioners organized the 'First BaptistChurch' of Hulett in 1904 and he preached there until 1908. The churchwas built in 1898-1899. (Reverend Coffey was a retired minister anddid missionary work. He came to Alva in 1905). The family moved to the homestead before the house was built and lived ina hastily constructed barn for a few months. The barn had a wood floorin a half of it, a dirt floor in the rest. The outside of the barn hadboards applied vertically with batten over the cracks to keep out thecold. The barn was heated with a wood burning stove and heater. Water was carried , by handfrom the Belle Fourche river, one-fourth mile away. The barn had nobathroom, of course, and the outside toilet was 'King of the Prairie'. Lillie was an accomplish cook and did sewing for many people in theneighborhood. Most of the time she was paid with fresh meat, vegetablesor whatever the customer could give her. She would spend a week at atime at each place making dresses and clothes for each family. Mrs. Coffey also was an Artist and took art course in Bloomfield, Iowabefore she was married. She did much China painting too. Many of herfriends received these as gifts. Grace, Inez, Maud and Myra all taught country schools in and around thearea. Inez taught in the Moorcroft school for many years. Paul and Allen were carpenters and remodeled and built many homes aroundBelle Fourche and Spearfish, South Dakota. While on the ranch the Bell Post Office was constructed by the Coffeyfamily. They operated it from the 18th of June, 1907 until the 25th ofSeptember, 1915. It’s interesting to note that the only money they received from theirwork was from the cancellation of the stamps. Sometimes they might makeas much as 10¢ a day and sometimes not. Post cards were a penny andletters were two cents. The Post Office was closed in 1918. The family moved to Spearfish, South Dakota in 1928. Reverend Coffeydied in July of 1930. Mrs. Coffey lived many years in Spearfish and diedin November of 1950. This account is found on page 113 & 114 and was compiled by Mrs. PaulCoffey and stated in the book - 'Pioneers Of Crook County 1876-1920',by the Crook County Historical Society, Crook County, Wyoming, copyright1981.
BirthRev. Thomas Coffey was born in 1855, in Missouri, USAG.1
MarriageHe married Lillie May Hathaway on 5 May 1883, in Iowa, USAG.1
DeathHe died in July 1930 in Spearfish, Lawrence County, South Dakota, USAG.1

Child with Lillie May Hathaway d. November 1950

DaughterGrace Coffey b. 1884, d. 1917

Citations

  1. [S1092] Mary Gertrude Morris (nee Seeley) Mahoney, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (Wyoming, U.S.A.: Crook County Historical Society, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Lillie May Hathaway

F, #49893, d. November 1950
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameLillie May Hathaway was also known as Lillie May Coffey.
MarriageShe married Rev. Thomas Coffey on 5 May 1883, in Iowa, USAG.1
DeathShe died in November 1950 in Spearfish, Lawrence County, South Dakota, USAG.1

Child with Rev. Thomas Coffey b. 1855, d. July 1930

DaughterGrace Coffey b. 1884, d. 1917

Citations

  1. [S1092] Mary Gertrude Morris (nee Seeley) Mahoney, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (Wyoming, U.S.A.: Crook County Historical Society, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.

Mahlon Birdsey Dewing1

M, #49894, b. 20 June 1833, d. 5 May 1879

Parents

FatherAddison Dewing b. About 1810
MotherDeborah b. About 1810
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NoteMahon Dewing's ancestors are traced to Benjamin Franklin. At this time Mahon's parentage is not known 1997.
BirthMahlon Birdsey Dewing was born on 20 June 1833, in Chautauqua, Chautauqua County, New York, USAG.1
MarriageHe married Amada Charlotte Bacon daughter of Noah Brockway Bacon and Charlotte York, on 25 June 1856.2
DeathMahlon Birdsey Dewing died on 5 May 1879 in White Creek, Adams County, Wisconsin, USAG.2

Child with Amada Charlotte Bacon b. 4 January 1838, d. 4 July 1896

DaughterLulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing+ b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S989] Donald Coy, "Coy descendancy chart, from LDS data", July 1996 (Seattle, Washington). . Hereinafter cited as "Coy descendancy chart, from LDS data".

Amada Charlotte Bacon1

F, #49895, b. 4 January 1838, d. 4 July 1896

Parents

FatherNoah Brockway Bacon b. 19 December 1799, d. 29 May 1902
MotherCharlotte York b. 7 September 1797, d. 11 May 1875
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
NameAmada Charlotte Bacon was also known as Amada Charlotte Dewing.
Note

Amanda Bacon's ancestors are traced back to Lord Bacon of England and

Benjamin Franklin as stated in the book - 'Pioneers Of Crook Country 1876-1920', by Crook County Historical Society, Crook County, Wyoming, copyright 1981.

BirthShe was born on 4 January 1838, in Bath, Steuben County, New York, USAG.2
MarriageShe married Mahlon Birdsey Dewing son of Addison Dewing and Deborah, on 25 June 1856.2
DeathAmada Charlotte Bacon died on 4 July 1896 in Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, USAG.2

Child with Mahlon Birdsey Dewing b. 20 June 1833, d. 5 May 1879

DaughterLulu 'Belle' Belle Dewing+ b. 22 January 1859, d. 17 August 1946

Citations

  1. [S993] Crook County Historical Society, Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920 (303 East Sioux, Pierre, South Dakota: State Publishing Company, 1981). Hereinafter cited as Pioneers of Crook County 1876-1920.
  2. [S989] Donald Coy, "Coy descendancy chart, from LDS data", July 1996 (Seattle, Washington). . Hereinafter cited as "Coy descendancy chart, from LDS data".

William Covington Scott1

M, #49896, d. 22 July 1883
Last Edited 24 January 2002 00:00:00
MarriageWilliam Covington Scott married Lucy M. Herold on 4 July 1881.2
DeathHe died on 22 July 1883.2

Child with Lucy M. Herold d. 27 November 1930

SonWilliam Ernest 'Ernie' Scott+ b. 19 February 1883, d. 23 November 1966

Citations

  1. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). . Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".
  2. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). , Grace W. (nee Scott) Streeter,2485 Jackson Hiway, Chehalis,WA. 98532, 1-360-748-7280 Donald R. Coy, 1995. Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".

Lucy M. Herold1

F, #49897, d. 27 November 1930
Last Edited 24 January 2002 00:00:00
NameLucy M. Herold was also known as Lucy M. Scott.
NameShe was also known as Lucy M. Knight.
MarriageShe married.2
MarriageShe married Otis E. Knight.2
MarriageShe married William Covington Scott on 4 July 1881.3
DeathShe died on 27 November 1930.3

Child with Otis E. Knight

DaughterLora Knight+

Child with William Covington Scott d. 22 July 1883

SonWilliam Ernest 'Ernie' Scott+ b. 19 February 1883, d. 23 November 1966

Citations

  1. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). . Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".
  2. [S1097] Grace W. (née Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (née Scott) Streeter, compiled records", 1995 (Chahalis, Washington, U.S.A.). . Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (née Scott) Streeter, compiled records".
  3. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). , Grace W. (nee Scott) Streeter,2485 Jackson Hiway, Chehalis,WA. 98532, 1-360-748-7280 Donald R. Coy, 1995. Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".

Charles Ramey1

M, #49898, b. 17 January 1910, d. 11 August 1972
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
BirthCharles Ramey was born on 17 January 1910.2
MarriageHe married Bessie Scott daughter of William Ernest 'Ernie' Scott and Nancie Victoria Nilson, on 22 July 1937, in Seattle, King County, Washington, USAG.2
DeathCharles Ramey died on 11 August 1972 in Seattle, King County, Washington, USAG.3

Child with Bessie Scott b. 18 August 1909, d. 10 April 1985

SonFrederick Dean Ramey b. 18 March 1943, d. 5 June 1966

Citations

  1. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). . Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".
  2. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). , Grace W. (nee Scott) Streeter,2485 Jackson Hiway, Chehalis,WA. 98532, 1-360-748-7280 Donald R. Coy, 1995. Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".
  3. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). , Grace W. (nee Scott) Streeter,2485 Jackson Hiway, Chahalis,WA. 98532, 1-360-748-7280 Donald R. Coy, 1995. Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".

Frederick Dean Ramey1

M, #49900, b. 18 March 1943, d. 5 June 1966

Parents

FatherCharles Ramey b. 17 January 1910, d. 11 August 1972
MotherBessie Scott b. 18 August 1909, d. 10 April 1985
Last Edited 13 April 2024 16:00:05
BirthFrederick Dean Ramey was born on 18 March 1943, in Seattle, King County, Washington, USAG.1
DeathHe died on 5 June 1966 in Culver City, Los Angeles County, California, USAG.1

Citations

  1. [S1080] Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records", (Jackson Highway, Chehalis, Washington). . Hereinafter cited as "Grace W. (Scott) Streeter, compiled records".