Sunday, September 14, 2014
Martha Annie Turpin Smith (1876-1915)
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| William & Martha Smith w/child |
In the 1891 England census, she is age 14 and living in Bethal Green, London.
Martha married William Robert Smith on August 6, 1899, in St. James the Less, Parish of Bethnal Green, in the county of London, England. She was 23 years old and William was 21. William was a Grocer's Assistant and Martha, a Portmauteau maker, which is a large trunk or suitcase. Witnesses to the marriage were Herbert Turpin (Innkeeper) and Catherine Elizabeth Turpin (Bootmaker).[3]
In 1901, Mattie A. Smith was 24 years old, living in London, England with her husband, William, and son, William Herbert Smith.[4]
Eventually William and Martha had six children in 13 years. The 1910, the family immigrated to the United States, coming from Gravesend, England, bringing with them 4 of their children, William Herbert Smith, Edward Robert Smith, Lillian Martha Smith and Joseph Thomas Smith. Their daughter Annie Elizabeth Smith had been born and died in 1902 in England. They sailed from Liverpool on 18 June 1910 on the ship, Dominion, landing in Quebec, Canada. Their last residence in England is shown as Gravesend and their destination is Preston. William is 32 years of age; Martha, 33; William Herbert, 10; Edward Robert, 7; Lillian Martha, 5; and Joseph Thomas, 1.
Their last child, Harold Turpin Smith was born on 14 October 1912 in Preston, Oneida Co., Idaho. He died a few months later on 20 Jane 1913.
Their last child, Harold Turpin Smith was born on 14 October 1912 in Preston, Oneida Co., Idaho. He died a few months later on 20 Jane 1913.
In January of 1915, Martha traveled on the Oregon Short Line railroad enroute to the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake for medical treatment. It was a Wednesday and she died in transit on the train. Her death certificate shows the place of death as Salt Lake City, Salt Lake Co., Utah, but family group records show the place of death as Woods Cross, Davis Co., Utah. Her death certificate also states that she died 'near North Salt Lake'. Woods Cross is just north of that, which could very well be where the train was when she died. Martha was 38 years 6 months 12 days and she died on 20 Jan 1915. Cause of death was a pelvic absess, contributed by chronic appendicitis.
William Robert Smith was the informant at the time of her death and he resided in Preston, Idaho. Martha was buried in the Preston Cemetery. On her death certificate, the date of burial, 25 Jan 1915 is crossed out and it shows she will be buried upon 'arrival'. [5]
At the time of Martha's death, World War I was brewing and on Jan 19-20th, the first Zeppelin raid took place on Great Britain. Germany had employed three zeppelins in a two-day bombing mission against Britain. One encountered mechanical problems, but the other two zeppelins succeeded in dropping their bombs on English coastal towns.
SOURCES
[1] 1901 England Census shows her birthplace as B'friers, London, England
[2] London, England, Births and Baptisms, 1813-1906
[3] London, England, Marriages and Banns 1754-1921
[4] 1901 England Census
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Robert Willis Miller (1847-1924)
ROBERT WILLIS MILLER was born on 5 September 1847 in Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL. His parents were John Miller and Mary Kennedy.
Robert was married to Matilda M. Morrison on 1 August 1880 in Millbank, Grant County, SD.
____________________________________________________
TIMELINE
Robert Willis Miller
1850 - Saint Marie, Jasper County, IL
1860 - Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL
1870 - Auburn Township, Sangamon County, IL
1876 - Move to MN
1880 - Ortonville Township, Big Stone County, MN
1880 - moved to Northern California from MN
1900 - Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, CA
1904 - moved to Hanford, Kings County, CA
1910 - Hanford (Lucerne), Kings County, CA
--------------------
RECORDS
14 Dec 1850 census of Saint Marie Precinct, Jasper County, IL, found the Miller family living in dwelling #272:
John Miller 50 OH
Mary 42 KY
William 21 IL
Thomas 16 IL
Jane 18 IL
John 13 IL
James 9 IL
Robert 1 IL
--------------------
1860 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL found the Miller family living in dwelling #1361. Next door in dwelling #1360 was daughter Jane (28), her husband William Neal (28) and their son John T. (2). Neighbors included son John Miller and nephew Thomas K. Miller. Another neighbor was William Ping and family, including daughter Mary Elizabeth Ping (17):
John Miller 60 OH - Farmer
James 26 IL - Laborer
Nancy E. 17 IL
Belinda 13 IL
Robert 12 IL
Jesse 10 IL
Hiram 8 IL
--------------------
11 Aug 1870 census of Auburn Township, Sangamon County, IL, showed Jesse and Robert Miller living with the Thomas S. Park family in dwelling #94:
Thomas S. Park 45 IN - Farmer
Nancy 41 IN
Leuticia E. 13 IL
Samuel 11 IL
Minnie 4 IL
Mary 3 IL
Beaumont Park 87 CT
Jesse Miller 20 IL - Farm laborer
Robert Miller 22 IL - Farm laborer
--------------------
In a letter to his nephew, Robert W. Miller (son of James David Miller), Robert Willis Miller said that he moved away from his Illinois home in the spring of 1876.
-------------------
7 June 1880 census of Ortonville Township, Big Stone County, MN, found Robert living alone in dwelling #130. Big Stone County is just northwest of Chippewa County where brother Jesse Miller was living in 1880. There were two other lawyers listed on this same census page with Robert as well as several railroad workers:
R. W. Miller 31 IL OH KY - Single, Lawyer
--------------------
Robert was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1874, the Minnesota Bar in 1876, the Superior Court of California in 1880, and the Supreme Court of California in July 1885. He also served as a Notary Public in Del Norte County, CA, from 1886 to 1895.
--------------------
Listed in "The History of the Bench and Bar of California, 1912" by J.C. Bates, which stated that he practiced law in St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN from 1874 until 1880, when he moved to Northern California, where he practiced in Eureka for 2 years, Crescent City for 8 years, and Santa Rosa for 10 years. He then moved to Hanford, CA in 1904. He was working as a Deputy District Attorney of Del Norte County, CA, at the time of his death 5 November 1924.
--------------------
5 June 1900 census of Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, CA, found the Miller family living in dwelling #98 on Beaver Street. Robert and Matilda said that they had been married 20 years and all 7 of their children were still living:
Robert Miller 9-1848 51 IL IL IL - Lawyer
Matilda M. 7-1854 42 WI Ireland Ireland
Maud E. 5-1881 19 MN IL WI
Edgar H. 9-1883 16 CA IL WI
Frederick C. 10-1886 13 CA IL WI
Robert J. 11-1888 11 CA IL WI
James A. 2-1891 9 CA IL WI
Wayne L. 4-1894 6 CA IL WI
Lowell M. 9-1898 2 CA IL WI
--------------------
3 May 1910 census of Hanford (Lucerne), Kings County, CA, found the Miller family in dwelling #326 on East Ninth Street. Robert was listed as a lawyer. Matilda and children Robert J., James, Wayne and Lowell were living in dwelling #153 in Palo Alto, Santa Clara County, CA:
Robert Miller 66 IL NY NY - Lawyer
Justin Miller 20 CA IL IN
--------------------
The California Voter Registration for Crescent City, Del Norte County, in 1914 showed Robert W. Miller employed as an attorney at law, registered as a Progressive.
The California Voter Registration for Hanford, Kings County, in 1900-1918 showed Robert W. Miller employed as an attorney at law, registered as a Progressive.
--------------------
OBITUARY FOR ROBERT WILLIS MILLER
Aged Attorney Passes
R. W. Miller, who recently came here from Arkansas died Wednesday morning at 1 o'clock after a brief illness. The funeral was held Thursday morning, the Rev. N. A. Morrison conducting the services. The deceased was born at Newton, Jasper County, Illinois in 1849, came to Crescent City in 1882, was principal of the grammar school here and assisted in the organization of the high school. In 1883 he opened a law office here and practiced for a number of years. Since coming from Arkansas a few months ago he has been acting in the capacity of deputy district attorney.
(Del Norte Triplicate, Crescent City California, Nov 8, 1924)
--------------------
HISTORY of the BENCH AND BAR of CALIFORNIA
Edited by J. C. Bates
Bench and Bar Publishing Company, Publishers
San Francisco, CA 1912
ROBERT WILLIS MILLER
Residence and office, Hanford, Ca. Born September 5, 1847 in Willow Hill, Illinois. Son of John and Mary (Kennedy) Miller.
Moved to California in 1880. Married in 1880 to Mattie Morrison.
Educated in the public schools of Illinois. Attended University of Illinois. Admitted to the bar of Illinois in 1874, Minnesota in 1876, Superior Court of California 1880, Supreme Court of California, 1885.
Practiced law in Illinois until 1874 when he moved to Minnesota where for two years he taught in the schools of that state. Practiced law in Minnesota until 1880 when he moved to northern California practicing his profession in Eureka two years; Crescent City eight years and Santa Rosa 10 years. In 1904 he moved to Hanford where he continues the general pracitce of law to date. Member of Masonic Order. Republican.
http://books.google.com/books?id=ax0LAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA429&lpg=PA429&dq=crescent+california+%22robert+willis+miller%22&source=bl&ots=4O8t46eE3e&sig=nG2sM5vlyrkaX2Ln8Vvir-yGZkk&hl=en&sa=X&ei=TjDBT_GzOMWWiQLFg_HYBw&ved=0CFUQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=crescent%20california%20%22robert%20willis%20miller%22&f=false
--------------------
Robert W. MILLER was born in Jasper County IL on Sep 5 1847. He was orphaned at an early age and grew up in Crawford county under the care of a guardian who allowed him practically no educational advantages. At 19 he became a student in a public school in Sangamon County, IL and graduated at age 21 with a teacher's certificate. Teaching for the next two years, he prepared himself to enter the University of IL and in 1871 took the law course of that institution and in 1874 was admitted to the bar. He then went to
Minnesota and taught school for two years and also was admitted to practice in the Supreme court there. In 1879 he located in Humboldt County, CA. He practiced at Eureka for two years, then went into mining, and on Jun 17 1885 he became a member of the bar, admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of CA. He then located at Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and in 1904 went to Hanford. In 1889 he married Miss Mattie MORRISON, native of Wisconson.
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/NORCAL/2004-12/1103688352
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In 1882, Robert Willis Miller was listed as a Steward with the MEMBERS OF OAKLAND LODGE, NO. 188, (Oakland, Alameda County) GRAND LODGE OF CALIFORNIA - FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS.
http://www.sfgenealogy.com/caldatanook/msn82/msn188.htm
Robert was married to Matilda M. Morrison on 1 August 1880 in Millbank, Grant County, SD.
____________________________________________________
TIMELINE
Robert Willis Miller
1850 - Saint Marie, Jasper County, IL
1860 - Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL
1870 - Auburn Township, Sangamon County, IL
1876 - Move to MN
1880 - Ortonville Township, Big Stone County, MN
1880 - moved to Northern California from MN
1900 - Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, CA
1904 - moved to Hanford, Kings County, CA
1910 - Hanford (Lucerne), Kings County, CA
--------------------
RECORDS
14 Dec 1850 census of Saint Marie Precinct, Jasper County, IL, found the Miller family living in dwelling #272:
John Miller 50 OH
Mary 42 KY
William 21 IL
Thomas 16 IL
Jane 18 IL
John 13 IL
James 9 IL
Robert 1 IL
--------------------
1860 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL found the Miller family living in dwelling #1361. Next door in dwelling #1360 was daughter Jane (28), her husband William Neal (28) and their son John T. (2). Neighbors included son John Miller and nephew Thomas K. Miller. Another neighbor was William Ping and family, including daughter Mary Elizabeth Ping (17):
John Miller 60 OH - Farmer
James 26 IL - Laborer
Nancy E. 17 IL
Belinda 13 IL
Robert 12 IL
Jesse 10 IL
Hiram 8 IL
--------------------
11 Aug 1870 census of Auburn Township, Sangamon County, IL, showed Jesse and Robert Miller living with the Thomas S. Park family in dwelling #94:
Thomas S. Park 45 IN - Farmer
Nancy 41 IN
Leuticia E. 13 IL
Samuel 11 IL
Minnie 4 IL
Mary 3 IL
Beaumont Park 87 CT
Jesse Miller 20 IL - Farm laborer
Robert Miller 22 IL - Farm laborer
--------------------
In a letter to his nephew, Robert W. Miller (son of James David Miller), Robert Willis Miller said that he moved away from his Illinois home in the spring of 1876.
-------------------
7 June 1880 census of Ortonville Township, Big Stone County, MN, found Robert living alone in dwelling #130. Big Stone County is just northwest of Chippewa County where brother Jesse Miller was living in 1880. There were two other lawyers listed on this same census page with Robert as well as several railroad workers:
R. W. Miller 31 IL OH KY - Single, Lawyer
--------------------
Robert was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1874, the Minnesota Bar in 1876, the Superior Court of California in 1880, and the Supreme Court of California in July 1885. He also served as a Notary Public in Del Norte County, CA, from 1886 to 1895.
--------------------
Listed in "The History of the Bench and Bar of California, 1912" by J.C. Bates, which stated that he practiced law in St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN from 1874 until 1880, when he moved to Northern California, where he practiced in Eureka for 2 years, Crescent City for 8 years, and Santa Rosa for 10 years. He then moved to Hanford, CA in 1904. He was working as a Deputy District Attorney of Del Norte County, CA, at the time of his death 5 November 1924.
--------------------
5 June 1900 census of Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, CA, found the Miller family living in dwelling #98 on Beaver Street. Robert and Matilda said that they had been married 20 years and all 7 of their children were still living:
Robert Miller 9-1848 51 IL IL IL - Lawyer
Matilda M. 7-1854 42 WI Ireland Ireland
Maud E. 5-1881 19 MN IL WI
Edgar H. 9-1883 16 CA IL WI
Frederick C. 10-1886 13 CA IL WI
Robert J. 11-1888 11 CA IL WI
James A. 2-1891 9 CA IL WI
Wayne L. 4-1894 6 CA IL WI
Lowell M. 9-1898 2 CA IL WI
--------------------
3 May 1910 census of Hanford (Lucerne), Kings County, CA, found the Miller family in dwelling #326 on East Ninth Street. Robert was listed as a lawyer. Matilda and children Robert J., James, Wayne and Lowell were living in dwelling #153 in Palo Alto, Santa Clara County, CA:
Robert Miller 66 IL NY NY - Lawyer
Justin Miller 20 CA IL IN
--------------------
The California Voter Registration for Crescent City, Del Norte County, in 1914 showed Robert W. Miller employed as an attorney at law, registered as a Progressive.
The California Voter Registration for Hanford, Kings County, in 1900-1918 showed Robert W. Miller employed as an attorney at law, registered as a Progressive.
--------------------
OBITUARY FOR ROBERT WILLIS MILLER
Aged Attorney Passes
R. W. Miller, who recently came here from Arkansas died Wednesday morning at 1 o'clock after a brief illness. The funeral was held Thursday morning, the Rev. N. A. Morrison conducting the services. The deceased was born at Newton, Jasper County, Illinois in 1849, came to Crescent City in 1882, was principal of the grammar school here and assisted in the organization of the high school. In 1883 he opened a law office here and practiced for a number of years. Since coming from Arkansas a few months ago he has been acting in the capacity of deputy district attorney.
(Del Norte Triplicate, Crescent City California, Nov 8, 1924)
--------------------
HISTORY of the BENCH AND BAR of CALIFORNIA
Edited by J. C. Bates
Bench and Bar Publishing Company, Publishers
San Francisco, CA 1912
ROBERT WILLIS MILLER
Residence and office, Hanford, Ca. Born September 5, 1847 in Willow Hill, Illinois. Son of John and Mary (Kennedy) Miller.
Moved to California in 1880. Married in 1880 to Mattie Morrison.
Educated in the public schools of Illinois. Attended University of Illinois. Admitted to the bar of Illinois in 1874, Minnesota in 1876, Superior Court of California 1880, Supreme Court of California, 1885.
Practiced law in Illinois until 1874 when he moved to Minnesota where for two years he taught in the schools of that state. Practiced law in Minnesota until 1880 when he moved to northern California practicing his profession in Eureka two years; Crescent City eight years and Santa Rosa 10 years. In 1904 he moved to Hanford where he continues the general pracitce of law to date. Member of Masonic Order. Republican.
http://books.google.com/books?id=ax0LAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA429&lpg=PA429&dq=crescent+california+%22robert+willis+miller%22&source=bl&ots=4O8t46eE3e&sig=nG2sM5vlyrkaX2Ln8Vvir-yGZkk&hl=en&sa=X&ei=TjDBT_GzOMWWiQLFg_HYBw&ved=0CFUQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=crescent%20california%20%22robert%20willis%20miller%22&f=false
--------------------
Robert W. MILLER was born in Jasper County IL on Sep 5 1847. He was orphaned at an early age and grew up in Crawford county under the care of a guardian who allowed him practically no educational advantages. At 19 he became a student in a public school in Sangamon County, IL and graduated at age 21 with a teacher's certificate. Teaching for the next two years, he prepared himself to enter the University of IL and in 1871 took the law course of that institution and in 1874 was admitted to the bar. He then went to
Minnesota and taught school for two years and also was admitted to practice in the Supreme court there. In 1879 he located in Humboldt County, CA. He practiced at Eureka for two years, then went into mining, and on Jun 17 1885 he became a member of the bar, admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of CA. He then located at Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and in 1904 went to Hanford. In 1889 he married Miss Mattie MORRISON, native of Wisconson.
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/NORCAL/2004-12/1103688352
--------------------
In 1882, Robert Willis Miller was listed as a Steward with the MEMBERS OF OAKLAND LODGE, NO. 188, (Oakland, Alameda County) GRAND LODGE OF CALIFORNIA - FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS.
http://www.sfgenealogy.com/caldatanook/msn82/msn188.htm
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Anna Lee Duncan (1863-1922)
 |
| Anna Lee Callis |
Anna Lee married John Hamilton Callis in 1882 and they were the parents of the following children: twin girls, Dora Ann Callis and Cora Ann Callis, Clark Cleveland Callis, William Claude Callis, Ethel Callis, Arnold Callis and Orville Niles Callis.
In the 1900 census John and Annie said they had been married 18 years and all 5 of their children were still living. By the 1910 census, John and Anna said that they had been married 27 years and 5 of their 8 children were still living. If that statement is correct then there is still one child left to be found.
According to census records, John was a farmer.
Anna died on 18 March 1922 at the age of 58 in Bentonville, Benton County, AR. She is buried in the Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Hiwasee, Benton County, AR.
In 1924, many of the Miller/Callis family ventured to move to California and her husband John was among the group.
_________________________________________________________
RECORDS
26 June 1880 census of Dickson, Benton County, AR, found the Duncan family living in dwelling #131. Next door in dwelling #132 was son Randolph and family.
#131
Patrick L. Duncan 51 TN NC TN farmer
Juda L. 50 VA VA VA
George L. 20 TN TN VA
Ann L. 16 TN TN VA
William C. 13 TN TN VA
Floyd L. 10 TN TN VA
John C. 9 TN TN VA
Alva H. 7 TN TN VA
#132
Randolph L. Duncan 24 TN TN VA
Jane E. 23 NC NC NC
Amanda M. 7 AR TN NC
Albert 7/12 AR TN NC
--------------------
19 June 1900 census of Garland, Benton County, Ar, found the Callis family living in dwelling #186. John and Annie said that they had been married 18 years and all 5 of their children were still living. Next door in dwelling #187 was William Callis family:
John H. Callis 12/1855 40 AR TN AR Farmer
Annie L. 5/1864 36 TN TN TN
Dora A. 9/1883 16 AR AR TN
Cora A. 9/1883 16 AR AR TN
Clark 1/1888 12 AR AR TN
Leland 2/1890 10 AR AR TN
Ethal 5/1892 8 AR AR TN
--------------------
26 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Callis family living in dwelling #102, next door to father William Callis in dwelling #100. John and Anna said that they had been married 27 years and 5 of their 8 children were still living:
John H. Callis 50 AR TN TN - Farmer
Anna L. 46 TN TN TN
Clark C. 21 AR AR TN - Widowed, Farm laborer
Claude W. 19 AR AR TN - Farm laborer
Orville N. 9 AR AR TN
--------------------
31 January 1920 census of Garland Township, Benton County, AR, found the Callis family living in dwelling #123.
John Callas 60 AR TN AR - Farmer
Ann Callas 55 TN TN TN
Orval Callas 19 AR AR TN - Farm laborer
Winnie Callas 19 AR AR VA - Daughter-in-law
--------------------
SOURCES:
Refer to www.millerinfo.net/genealogy, family records and research.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
James David Miller (1839-1921)
JAMES DAVID MILLER was born on 10 December 1839 in Willow Hill, Jasper Co., Illinois. His parents were John Miller and Mary Kennedy.
During the Civil War, James served as a private in Company B, 155th Illinois Regiment of Volunteers. He joined 15 Feb 1865 in Olney, IL, and discharged 5 Aug 1865 in Murfreesboro, TN, by reason of unknown disability. He had spent May and June of 1865 in the hospital at Murfreesboro). Described as age 25, 5'7" tall, black hair, black eyes, dark complexion. Occupation was "farmer".
Austin T. Higgins, the first husband of James' wife Mary Elizabeth Ping, joined on the same date and served in the same outfit. UNION ILLINOIS VOLUNTEERS 155th Regiment, Illinois Infantry . The Regiment lost 71 during service by disease.
On 9 November 1871, James and Mary Elizabeth Ping married in Newton, Jasper Co., Illinois. They become the parents of Albert J. Miller, Alphon M. Miller, Robert William Miller, John Thomas Miller and Margaret Elizabeth Miller. James and Mary move their family to Benton Co., Arkansas around 1884, prior to the birth of son John.
James died on 3 January 1921 at home in Garland, Benton Co., Arkansas.
OBITUARY - Miller, G. D. - Centerton, Jan 17
"G. D. Miller, father of R. W. Miller of the Centerton Hardware Co., died at the supper table last Friday. He had been sick only a few days and was over 80 years of age. Mr. Miller came here from Illinois over thirty-five years ago and settled on the present Luther Fletcher farm on the Spavinaw creek northeast of town. Burial was made in the Mount Pleasant cemetery west of here."
(Rogers Democrat 1/20/1921)
_______________________________________________
RECORDS
14 Dec 1850 census of Saint Marie Precinct, Jasper County, IL, found the Miller family living in dwelling #272:
John Miller 50 OH
Mary 42 KY
William 21 IL
Thomas 16 IL
Jane 18 IL
John 13 IL
James 9 IL
Robert 1 IL
--------------------
1860 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL found the Miller family living in dwelling #1361. Next door in dwelling #1360 was daughter Jane (28), her husband William Neal (28) and their son John T. (2). Neighbors included son John Miller and nephew Thomas K. Miller. Another neighbor was William Ping and family, including daughter Mary Elizabeth Ping (17):
John Miller 60 OH - Farmer
James 26 IL - Laborer
Nancy E. 17 IL
Belinda 13 IL
Robert 12 IL
Jesse 10 IL
Hiram 8 IL
--------------------
During the Civil War, James served as a private in Company B, 155th Illinois Regiment of Volunteers. He joined 15 Feb 1865 in Olney, IL, and discharged 5 Aug 1865 in Murfreesboro, TN, by reason of unknown disability (he spent May and June of 1865 in the hospital at Murfreesboro). Described as age 25, 5'7" tall, black hair, black eyes, dark complexion. Occupation was "farmer". See http://www.itd.nps.gov/cwss for details. Refer also to Illinois web page http://www.iltrails.org/Jasper/militarycensus.html which notes that Austin T. Higgins, the first husband of James' wife Mary Ping, joined on the same date and served in the same outfit.
--------------------
UNION ILLINOIS VOLUNTEERS 155th Regiment, Illinois Infantry
Organized at Camp Butler and mustered in February 28, 1865. Moved to Louisville, Ky.; thence to Nashville and Tullahoma, Tenn., March 2-10, 1865. Attached to 2nd Brigade, Defences Nashville & Chattanooga R.R., Dept. of the Cumberland, to April, 1865. 2nd Brigade, 1st Sub-District, District of Middle Tennessee, to September, 1865.
SERVICE.-Guard Block Houses on Nashville & Chattanooga R. R. by Detachments from Nashville to Duck River till September. Mustered out September 4, 1865.
Regiment lost 71 during service by disease.
--------------------
20 July 1870 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL found the Miller family living in dwelling #73. Also in household was Acy Ping (12) and cousin James Miller (30). Next door in dwelling #74 was James' father John Miller and family:
Thomas Miller 44 IL - Farmer
Mary 38 TN
Rachael 16 IL
Ludusca 10 IL
Collumbus 8 IL
Jesse 6 IL
Kimble E. 3 IL
John P. 1 IL
William 1/12 IL - Born May 1870
Acy Ping 12 IL
James Miller 30 IL - Works on farm
--------------------
Marriage license issued to James D. Miller and Mrs. Mary E. Higgins (widow) on 11-9-1871 by Jasper County, IL (Vol B page 316).
--------------------
14 June 1880 census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL, found the Miller family living in dwelling #215. Also in the household were Mary's three daughter from her first marriage:
James Miller 39 IL OH OH Farmer
Mary 37 IN KY KY
Alwilda Higgins 18 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Minnie Higgins 16 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Nancy Higgins 12 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Albert Miller 7 IL IL IN
Alphon 3 IL IL IN
Robert 7/12 IL IL IN
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James moved his family to Arkansas around 1884, prior to the birth of son John in September.
--------------------
22 June 1900 census of Dickson, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #177. James and Mary said that they had been married 29 years and 8 of their 12 children were still living:
James D. Miller 12/1839 60 IL OH IL Farmer
Mary E. 3/1884 56 IN KY KY
Alphon 1/1877 23 IL IL IN Farm laborer
Robert W. 11/1879 20 IL IL IN Farm laborer
John 9/1884 15 AR IL IN Farm laborer
Maggie 10/1896 13 AR IL IN
--------------------
22 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #79. James and Mary said that they had been married 39 years and 7 of their 11 children were still living:
James T. Miller 70 IL OH IL - No employment
Mary E. 66 IN KY KY
Blanche Ping 3 IL IL AR - Granddaughter
--------------------
23 Jan 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found James David Miller living with his son Robert and family in dwelling #50 on Fourth Street:
R. W. Miller 40 IL IL IN Salesman - H.W.D.
Dora 36 AR AR TN
Hurbert 14 AR IL AR Twin
Herschell 14 AR IL AR Twin
Maggie 12 AR IL AR
Dick 9 AR IL AR
Donald 7 AR IL AR
Maxine 3 AR IL AR
Ruth 1 6/12 AR IL AR
Blanche Pitts 13 IL IL AR Niece
J. D. Miller 80 IL OH IL Father, Widowed
SOURCES
www.millerinfo.net/genealogyDuring the Civil War, James served as a private in Company B, 155th Illinois Regiment of Volunteers. He joined 15 Feb 1865 in Olney, IL, and discharged 5 Aug 1865 in Murfreesboro, TN, by reason of unknown disability. He had spent May and June of 1865 in the hospital at Murfreesboro). Described as age 25, 5'7" tall, black hair, black eyes, dark complexion. Occupation was "farmer".
Austin T. Higgins, the first husband of James' wife Mary Elizabeth Ping, joined on the same date and served in the same outfit. UNION ILLINOIS VOLUNTEERS 155th Regiment, Illinois Infantry . The Regiment lost 71 during service by disease.
On 9 November 1871, James and Mary Elizabeth Ping married in Newton, Jasper Co., Illinois. They become the parents of Albert J. Miller, Alphon M. Miller, Robert William Miller, John Thomas Miller and Margaret Elizabeth Miller. James and Mary move their family to Benton Co., Arkansas around 1884, prior to the birth of son John.
James died on 3 January 1921 at home in Garland, Benton Co., Arkansas.
OBITUARY - Miller, G. D. - Centerton, Jan 17
"G. D. Miller, father of R. W. Miller of the Centerton Hardware Co., died at the supper table last Friday. He had been sick only a few days and was over 80 years of age. Mr. Miller came here from Illinois over thirty-five years ago and settled on the present Luther Fletcher farm on the Spavinaw creek northeast of town. Burial was made in the Mount Pleasant cemetery west of here."
(Rogers Democrat 1/20/1921)
_______________________________________________
RECORDS
14 Dec 1850 census of Saint Marie Precinct, Jasper County, IL, found the Miller family living in dwelling #272:
John Miller 50 OH
Mary 42 KY
William 21 IL
Thomas 16 IL
Jane 18 IL
John 13 IL
James 9 IL
Robert 1 IL
--------------------
1860 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL found the Miller family living in dwelling #1361. Next door in dwelling #1360 was daughter Jane (28), her husband William Neal (28) and their son John T. (2). Neighbors included son John Miller and nephew Thomas K. Miller. Another neighbor was William Ping and family, including daughter Mary Elizabeth Ping (17):
John Miller 60 OH - Farmer
James 26 IL - Laborer
Nancy E. 17 IL
Belinda 13 IL
Robert 12 IL
Jesse 10 IL
Hiram 8 IL
--------------------
During the Civil War, James served as a private in Company B, 155th Illinois Regiment of Volunteers. He joined 15 Feb 1865 in Olney, IL, and discharged 5 Aug 1865 in Murfreesboro, TN, by reason of unknown disability (he spent May and June of 1865 in the hospital at Murfreesboro). Described as age 25, 5'7" tall, black hair, black eyes, dark complexion. Occupation was "farmer". See http://www.itd.nps.gov/cwss for details. Refer also to Illinois web page http://www.iltrails.org/Jasper/militarycensus.html which notes that Austin T. Higgins, the first husband of James' wife Mary Ping, joined on the same date and served in the same outfit.
--------------------
UNION ILLINOIS VOLUNTEERS 155th Regiment, Illinois Infantry
Organized at Camp Butler and mustered in February 28, 1865. Moved to Louisville, Ky.; thence to Nashville and Tullahoma, Tenn., March 2-10, 1865. Attached to 2nd Brigade, Defences Nashville & Chattanooga R.R., Dept. of the Cumberland, to April, 1865. 2nd Brigade, 1st Sub-District, District of Middle Tennessee, to September, 1865.
SERVICE.-Guard Block Houses on Nashville & Chattanooga R. R. by Detachments from Nashville to Duck River till September. Mustered out September 4, 1865.
Regiment lost 71 during service by disease.
--------------------
20 July 1870 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL found the Miller family living in dwelling #73. Also in household was Acy Ping (12) and cousin James Miller (30). Next door in dwelling #74 was James' father John Miller and family:
Thomas Miller 44 IL - Farmer
Mary 38 TN
Rachael 16 IL
Ludusca 10 IL
Collumbus 8 IL
Jesse 6 IL
Kimble E. 3 IL
John P. 1 IL
William 1/12 IL - Born May 1870
Acy Ping 12 IL
James Miller 30 IL - Works on farm
--------------------
Marriage license issued to James D. Miller and Mrs. Mary E. Higgins (widow) on 11-9-1871 by Jasper County, IL (Vol B page 316).
--------------------
14 June 1880 census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL, found the Miller family living in dwelling #215. Also in the household were Mary's three daughter from her first marriage:
James Miller 39 IL OH OH Farmer
Mary 37 IN KY KY
Alwilda Higgins 18 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Minnie Higgins 16 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Nancy Higgins 12 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Albert Miller 7 IL IL IN
Alphon 3 IL IL IN
Robert 7/12 IL IL IN
--------------------
James moved his family to Arkansas around 1884, prior to the birth of son John in September.
--------------------
22 June 1900 census of Dickson, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #177. James and Mary said that they had been married 29 years and 8 of their 12 children were still living:
James D. Miller 12/1839 60 IL OH IL Farmer
Mary E. 3/1884 56 IN KY KY
Alphon 1/1877 23 IL IL IN Farm laborer
Robert W. 11/1879 20 IL IL IN Farm laborer
John 9/1884 15 AR IL IN Farm laborer
Maggie 10/1896 13 AR IL IN
--------------------
22 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #79. James and Mary said that they had been married 39 years and 7 of their 11 children were still living:
James T. Miller 70 IL OH IL - No employment
Mary E. 66 IN KY KY
Blanche Ping 3 IL IL AR - Granddaughter
--------------------
23 Jan 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found James David Miller living with his son Robert and family in dwelling #50 on Fourth Street:
R. W. Miller 40 IL IL IN Salesman - H.W.D.
Dora 36 AR AR TN
Hurbert 14 AR IL AR Twin
Herschell 14 AR IL AR Twin
Maggie 12 AR IL AR
Dick 9 AR IL AR
Donald 7 AR IL AR
Maxine 3 AR IL AR
Ruth 1 6/12 AR IL AR
Blanche Pitts 13 IL IL AR Niece
J. D. Miller 80 IL OH IL Father, Widowed
Find A Grave Memorial
Sunday, July 6, 2014
John Hamilton Callis
 |
| John and Anna Callis Family |
He married Anna Lee Duncan in 1882 and they were the parents of the following children: twin girls, Dora Ann Callis and Cora Ann Callis, Clark Cleveland Callis, William Claude Callis, Ethel Callis, Arnold Callis and Orville Niles Callis.
In the 1900 census John and Annie said they had been married 18 years and all 5 of their children were still living. By the 1910 census, John and Anna said that they had been married 27 years and 5 of their 8 children were still living. If that statement is correct then there is still one child left to be found.
According to census records, John was a farmer.
Anna passed away on 18 March 1922. In 1924, many of the Miller/Callis family ventured to move to California and John was among the group. At the time, he was 64 years old when they arrived on their new ranch in Crescent City, Humboldt Co., California
Although John lived most of his life in Benton Co., Arkansas, he was had been living in California and was hit and killed by a car. This was in March of 1933.
and...
The body of John Callis, who lived in Ventura, Calif., arrived on Sunday morning, accompanied by his grandson, Donald Miller. Mr. Callis was knocked down by an automobile and died shortly afterwards without regaining consciousness. Funeral services were held for him at the Christan Church in Hiwasse Sunday morning. Burial was made in Mt. Pleasant cemetery. [Benton County Record & Democrat & Sun - Bentonville, Benton County, Arkansas - March 9, 1933]
_________________________________________________
RECORDS16 June 1860 census of Osage, Benton County, AR, found the Callis family living in dwellings #215 and #216:
#215
William Callis 50 VA
Elizabeth 50 TN
Amanda 18 TN
Andrew 16 TN
Benjamin 13 TN
#216
Henry Callis 26 TN
Polly 21 AR
Lydia 2 AR
John 3/12 AR
--------------------
5 Aug 1870 census of Round Prairie, Benton County, AR, found the Callis family living in dwellings #136 and #137:
#136
Henry Callis 60 VA Cabinet Maker
Eliza 59 TN
Andrew 27 TN Farmer
Benjamin 24 TN Farmer
Kate 20 TN
George 1/12 AR
#137
William Callis 35 TN Farmer
Mary 31 AR
Lydia 12 AR
John 10 AR
Mary 8 AR
Will 6 AR
--------------------
25 June 1880 census of Dickson, Benton County, AR, found the Callis family living in dwelling #113:
William H. Callis 46 TN VA KY Blacksmith
Polly 42 AR TN IL
John H. 20 AR TN AR
Mary J.S. 18 AR TN AR
William H. 15 AR TN AR
--------------------
19 June 1900 census of Garland, Benton County, Ar, found the Callis family living in dwelling #186. John and Annie said that they had been married 18 years and all 5 of their children were still living. Next door in dwelling #187 was William Callis family:
John H. Callis 12/1855 40 AR TN AR Farmer
Annie L. 5/1864 36 TN TN TN
Dora A. 9/1883 16 AR AR TN
Cora A. 9/1883 16 AR AR TN
Clark 1/1888 12 AR AR TN
Leland 2/1890 10 AR AR TN
Ethal 5/1892 8 AR AR TN
--------------------
26 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Callis family living in dwelling #102, next door to father William Callis in dwelling #100. John and Anna said that they had been married 27 years and 5 of their 8 children were still living:
John H. Callis 50 AR TN TN - Farmer
Anna L. 46 TN TN TN
Clark C. 21 AR AR TN - Widowed, Farm laborer
Claude W. 19 AR AR TN - Farm laborer
Orville N. 9 AR AR TN
--------------------
3 April 1930 census of Distrist 19, Ojai, Ventura County, CA found the Callis family) living in dwelling #10 on Ojai Road:
Claude W. Calis 40 AR AR TN - Fruit rancher
Arthula E. 36 AR AR AR - Packer, Packing house
Lewis B. 18 AR AR AR
John H. 76 AR AR AR - Father
Living nearby was son George G. Callis (45), his wife Grace (37), sons Vale (19) and St. Elmo (13) and daughter Pansy (10). George and Vale were both employed as laborers on county roads, Grace as an orange packer. Also living nearby was daughter Dora (Callis) Miller, wife of Robert W. Miller, and her family.
--------------------
THE TRIP TO CALIFORNIA (as remembered by Maxine Miller Mason and written by Margot Mason Stockstill)
On August 1, 1924, the family left Benton County, Arkansas, and headed for a ranch near Crescent City in Northern California that Robert's uncle and namesake, Robert William Miller, had given him. Mimi had only been out of Benton County once and then only a few miles into Oklahoma.
There were 24 people and a collie named Socrates in the moving party packed into a new Maxwell, a Ford, a Buick and a Ford Truck. They were: Mimi and Robert, Herbert and Hershel, Blanche, Margaret, Don, Dick, Maxine, Ruth, Bill, JK (just 7 weeks old), Uncle John Miller (Robert's brother) and his wife Aunt Dove and their 5 girls, Mimi's brother Uncle Claude Callis, Aunt Arthula and their son Louis, Mimi's father John Hamilton Callis, who was 64 years old, and Cora Nichols, Mimi's twin.
The first stop was Grove, Oklahoma, at Mimi's brother Uncle Clark's home. Aunt Cora only went that far. Uncle Clark had a big going away party for the family. Each night while traveling they stayed in campgrounds. The women would wash clothes and the men would work on the cars and truck.
In Colorado there was an inspection stop for boll weevils so the family had to empty all their boxes. the Rocky Mountains were too big for Robert so his sons Herbert and Hershel drove. The family drove down through Oregon and reached Crescent City on Don's birthday, August 30th. The trip had taken 30 days. When they first saw the Pacific Ocean Mimi said,"I think we've come too far."
On their new ranch they lived in tents. The children had fun playing in the river but Socrates, the collie, got ahold of a dead salmon and died. They wouldn't let Grandad (John Hamilton) Callis play his fiddle for fear it would attract bears and Indians.
In September it was time for school so the family moved into town. Uncle John Miller took his family to Smith River. That winter Uncle John's youngest girl died, their house and car burned, but they stayed on in Smith River. There was a hurricane which ruined part of Crescent City. Mimi was sick all winter because the damp weather caused her to have rheumatism. Uncle Claude and Aunt Arthula left Crescent City and moved to Ojai, writing back about the warm and beautiful valley.
As soon as school was out in 1925 the Millers headed south, stopped in Suisun and leased a ranch with apricots and peaches. Mimi always said that that was one of the happiest years of her life. Robert took Hershel and Margaret to Ojai and liked it so well they decided to move down in the Fall of 1926.
SOURCES
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
William Ping and Elizabeth Reid
WILLIAM PING was born 16 December 1808 in Somerset, Pulaski Co., Kentucky. He was the son of Robert Ping and Jemima Ann Smith.
William married Elizabeth Reid on 12 December 1828 in Pulaski Co., Kentucky. They were the parents of 10 children: Silas Ping, Thomas B. Ping, Lucy A. Ping, Robert W. Ping, William Ping, Mary Elizabeth Ping, Elisha Dadger Ping, Margaret Jane Ping and Zerua Ellen Ping.
William left Pulaski County sometime after 14 September 1830 with his wife and son, his father and family, and possibly others. They located somewhere in Illinois for 2-3 years before settling in Vigo Co., Indiana, where daughter Lucy was born in January 1834. They stayed until 1849 when the Pings, except for Elisha and his family, moved to Jasper Co., Illinois.
William was farming on 240 acres of land in 1849. In 1853 he served as Justice of the Peace for Jackson County, which was formed in September 1852. Three of his sons served in the Civil War: Thomas, Robert W. and William.
1860 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, Il, found the Ping family living in dwelling #1372. Neighbors included sons Silas (30) and Thomas (27). Another neighbor was John Miller (60) and family, including son James David Miller (20):
William Ping 51 KY - Farmer
Elizabeth 49 KY
William 19 IN - Laborer
Robert 21 IN - Laborer
Mary E. 17 IN
Elisha 13 IN
Margaret J. 10 IL
Zeru E. 6 IL
William Ping died in Willow Hill, Jasper Co., on 15 Sep 1867 intestate, owning 130 acres of land but with insufficient personal estate for the payment of his debts. Thomas Neal was appointed Administrator on 19 Nov 1867. William's widow, Elizabeth (also called Betty and Betsy), bought some of the land and sold 40 acres of it to son Elisha on 7 Oct 1871 for $200 with the reservation of a lifetime lease. Elizabeth continued to live on the land until at least June 1875.
_______________________________________________
William left Pulaski County sometime after 14 September 1830 with his wife and son, his father and family, and possibly others. They located somewhere in Illinois for 2-3 years before settling in Vigo Co., Indiana, where daughter Lucy was born in January 1834. They stayed until 1849 when the Pings, except for Elisha and his family, moved to Jasper Co., Illinois.
William was farming on 240 acres of land in 1849. In 1853 he served as Justice of the Peace for Jackson County, which was formed in September 1852. Three of his sons served in the Civil War: Thomas, Robert W. and William.
1860 Census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, Il, found the Ping family living in dwelling #1372. Neighbors included sons Silas (30) and Thomas (27). Another neighbor was John Miller (60) and family, including son James David Miller (20):
William Ping 51 KY - Farmer
Elizabeth 49 KY
William 19 IN - Laborer
Robert 21 IN - Laborer
Mary E. 17 IN
Elisha 13 IN
Margaret J. 10 IL
Zeru E. 6 IL
William Ping died in Willow Hill, Jasper Co., on 15 Sep 1867 intestate, owning 130 acres of land but with insufficient personal estate for the payment of his debts. Thomas Neal was appointed Administrator on 19 Nov 1867. William's widow, Elizabeth (also called Betty and Betsy), bought some of the land and sold 40 acres of it to son Elisha on 7 Oct 1871 for $200 with the reservation of a lifetime lease. Elizabeth continued to live on the land until at least June 1875.
_______________________________________________
SOURCES
www.millerinfo.net/genealogy, family records and research.
Monday, March 24, 2014
James Herbert Smith Bio
 |
| James Herbert and Gertrude Florence (Robinson) Smith Family Standing, L to R: Muriel, Charles, Florence, Harold, Gertrude. Center: Raymond, James and baby Leonard on his father's lap. |
Monday, March 10, 2014
Blanche Ping (1905-2001)
BLANCHE PING is the daughter of Otis Warren Ping and Margaret (Maggie) Elizabeth Miller. She was born on 17 October 1905 in Jasper Co., Illinois.
Her mother died on 23 September 1907 in Bentonville, Benton Co., Arkansas, when Blanche was a little over a year old. According to her obituary, Maggie had been sick for several months with typhoid fever, followed by consumption. She shares a headstone with her mother Mary Elizabeth (Ping) Miller in the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Benton Co., Arkansas.
Her father was left to the care of a young child, although he died soon after on 3 December 1909, a little over 2 years after his wife, Maggie. Blanche was left an orphan. She is shown in the 1910 census of Garland, Benton Co., AR as living with her grandparents, James and Mary Miller.
Otis was said to have contracted tuberculosis from his first wife Clara Skaggs, who died 18 months after they were married. He and a brother went to Arkansas to try to recover from the illness. While there, he married Margaret "Maggie" Miller, his first cousin. It is believed that both Otis and Maggie later died from tuberculosis, although her obituary said otherwise.
Sometime before 1920, Blanche came to live with her uncle, Robert William Miller, his wife Dora Ann and their children. She is shown in the 1920 Census as living with the R.W. Miller family, along with her grandfather, James, who was widowed.
She moved from Arkansas to California with the family and continued to live with the Miller's up until the time she married before 1930. She had one son, Albert Earle MacDonald (1930-1996) from her marriage to Maxwell Laurier MacDonald from Canada. She and Maxwell were divorced as he died in 1968.
After 1940, Blanche married Paul Clifford Coldeen who died in 1962. She and Coldeen were listed together in 1953 in the Monrovia city directory.
Blanche died on 7 April 2001 in Altadena, Los Angeles County, California at the age of 94. She is buried in the Live Oak Memorial Park in Monrovia, Los Angeles County, California.
___________________________________________________
RECORDS
Blanche Irene Ping
1910 - Garland, Benton County, AR
1920 - Garland, Benton County, AR
1930 - Ventura County, CA - can't find this census record, but son Albert Earle was born in this year and place
1935 - Montecito, Santa Barbara, CA
1940 - Monrovia, Los Angeles, CA
--------------------
22 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #79. James and Mary said that they had been married 39 years and 7 of their 11 children were still living:
James T. Miller 70 IL OH IL - No employment
Mary E. 66 IN KY KY
Blanche Ping 3 IL IL AR - Granddaughter
--------------------
23 Jan 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found Blanche living with the Robert Miller family in dwelling #50 on Fourth Street:
R. W. Miller 40 IL IL IN Salesman - H.W.D.
Dora 36 AR AR TN
Hurbert 14 AR IL AR Twin
Herschell 14 AR IL AR Twin
Maggie 12 AR IL AR
Dick 9 AR IL AR
Donald 7 AR IL AR
Maxine 3 AR IL AR
Ruth 1 6/12 AR IL AR
Blanche Pitts 13 IL IL AR Niece
J. D. Miller 80 IL OH IL Father, Widowed
--------------------
19 April 1940 census of Monrovia, Los Angeles County, CA, found the MacDonald family living at 448 South El Monte Road. They said that they lived in Montecito, Santa Barbara County, CA, on 15 April 1935:
Maxwell MacDonald 44 Canada - Completed 4 years of high school education, Chauffer - Private family, Earned $900 in past year
Blanche MacDonald 33 IL - Completed 2 years of high school education
Earl MacDonald 10 CA - 4 years of education
--------------------
"United States Social Security Death Index," Blanche P Coldeen, 2001
First name: Blanche
Middle name: P
Last name: Coldeen
Birth date: 17 October 1906
Social security number: 548-36-3673
Place of issuance: California
Last residence: Altadena, Los Angeles, California
Zip code of last residence: 91001
Death date: 7 April 2001
Estimated age at death: 95
Source Citation: "United States Social Security Death Index," index, FamilySearch
--------------------
THE TRIP TO CALIFORNIA (as remembered by Maxine Miller Mason and written by Margot Mason Stockstill)
On August 1, 1924, the family left Benton County, Arkansas, and headed for a ranch near Crescent City in Northern California that Robert's uncle and namesake, Robert William Miller, had given him. Mimi had only been out of Benton County once and then only a few miles into Oklahoma.
There were 24 people and a collie named Socrates in the moving party packed into a new Maxwell, a Ford, a Buick and a Ford Truck. They were: Mimi and Robert, Herbert and Hershel, Blanche, Margaret, Don, Dick, Maxine, Ruth, Bill, JK (just 7 weeks old), Uncle John Miller (Robert's brother) and his wife Aunt Dove and their 5 girls, Mimi's brother Uncle Claude Callis, Aunt Arthula and their son Louis, Mimi's father John Hamilton Callis, who was 64 years old, and Cora Nichols, Mimi's twin.
The first stop was Grove, Oklahoma, at Mimi's brother Uncle Clark's home. Aunt Cora only went that far. Uncle Clark had a big going away party for the family. Each night while traveling they stayed in campgrounds. The women would wash clothes and the men would work on the cars and truck.
In Colorado there was an inspection stop for boll weevils so the family had to empty all their boxes. the Rocky Mountains were too big for Robert so his sons Herbert and Hershel drove. The family drove down through Oregon and reached Crescent City on Don's birthday, August 30th. The trip had taken 30 days. When they first saw the Pacific Ocean Mimi said,"I think we've come too far."
On their new ranch they lived in tents. The children had fun playing in the river but Socrates, the collie, got ahold of a dead salmon and died. They wouldn't let Grandad (John Hamilton) Callis play his fiddle for fear it would attract bears and Indians.
In September it was time for school so the family moved into town. Uncle John Miller took his family to Smith River. That winter Uncle John's youngest girl died, their house and car burned, but they stayed on in Smith River. There was a hurricane which ruined part of Crescent City. Mimi was sick all winter because the damp weather caused her to have rheumatism. Uncle Claude and Aunt Arthula left Crescent City and moved to Ojai, writing back about the warm and beautiful valley.
As soon as school was out in 1925 the Millers headed south, stopped in Suisun and leased a ranch with apricots and peaches. Mimi always said that that was one of the happiest years of her life. Robert took Hershel and Margaret to Ojai and liked it so well they decided to move down in the Fall of 1926.
--------------------
SOURCES
Memories of Robert William Miller, Jr.
Census and other researched records
www.millerinfo.net/genealogy
Her mother died on 23 September 1907 in Bentonville, Benton Co., Arkansas, when Blanche was a little over a year old. According to her obituary, Maggie had been sick for several months with typhoid fever, followed by consumption. She shares a headstone with her mother Mary Elizabeth (Ping) Miller in the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Benton Co., Arkansas.
Her father was left to the care of a young child, although he died soon after on 3 December 1909, a little over 2 years after his wife, Maggie. Blanche was left an orphan. She is shown in the 1910 census of Garland, Benton Co., AR as living with her grandparents, James and Mary Miller.
Otis was said to have contracted tuberculosis from his first wife Clara Skaggs, who died 18 months after they were married. He and a brother went to Arkansas to try to recover from the illness. While there, he married Margaret "Maggie" Miller, his first cousin. It is believed that both Otis and Maggie later died from tuberculosis, although her obituary said otherwise.
Sometime before 1920, Blanche came to live with her uncle, Robert William Miller, his wife Dora Ann and their children. She is shown in the 1920 Census as living with the R.W. Miller family, along with her grandfather, James, who was widowed.
She moved from Arkansas to California with the family and continued to live with the Miller's up until the time she married before 1930. She had one son, Albert Earle MacDonald (1930-1996) from her marriage to Maxwell Laurier MacDonald from Canada. She and Maxwell were divorced as he died in 1968.
After 1940, Blanche married Paul Clifford Coldeen who died in 1962. She and Coldeen were listed together in 1953 in the Monrovia city directory.
Blanche died on 7 April 2001 in Altadena, Los Angeles County, California at the age of 94. She is buried in the Live Oak Memorial Park in Monrovia, Los Angeles County, California.
___________________________________________________
RECORDS
Blanche Irene Ping
1910 - Garland, Benton County, AR
1920 - Garland, Benton County, AR
1930 - Ventura County, CA - can't find this census record, but son Albert Earle was born in this year and place
1935 - Montecito, Santa Barbara, CA
1940 - Monrovia, Los Angeles, CA
--------------------
22 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #79. James and Mary said that they had been married 39 years and 7 of their 11 children were still living:
James T. Miller 70 IL OH IL - No employment
Mary E. 66 IN KY KY
Blanche Ping 3 IL IL AR - Granddaughter
--------------------
23 Jan 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found Blanche living with the Robert Miller family in dwelling #50 on Fourth Street:
R. W. Miller 40 IL IL IN Salesman - H.W.D.
Dora 36 AR AR TN
Hurbert 14 AR IL AR Twin
Herschell 14 AR IL AR Twin
Maggie 12 AR IL AR
Dick 9 AR IL AR
Donald 7 AR IL AR
Maxine 3 AR IL AR
Ruth 1 6/12 AR IL AR
Blanche Pitts 13 IL IL AR Niece
J. D. Miller 80 IL OH IL Father, Widowed
--------------------
19 April 1940 census of Monrovia, Los Angeles County, CA, found the MacDonald family living at 448 South El Monte Road. They said that they lived in Montecito, Santa Barbara County, CA, on 15 April 1935:
Maxwell MacDonald 44 Canada - Completed 4 years of high school education, Chauffer - Private family, Earned $900 in past year
Blanche MacDonald 33 IL - Completed 2 years of high school education
Earl MacDonald 10 CA - 4 years of education
--------------------
"United States Social Security Death Index," Blanche P Coldeen, 2001
First name: Blanche
Middle name: P
Last name: Coldeen
Birth date: 17 October 1906
Social security number: 548-36-3673
Place of issuance: California
Last residence: Altadena, Los Angeles, California
Zip code of last residence: 91001
Death date: 7 April 2001
Estimated age at death: 95
Source Citation: "United States Social Security Death Index," index, FamilySearch
--------------------
THE TRIP TO CALIFORNIA (as remembered by Maxine Miller Mason and written by Margot Mason Stockstill)
On August 1, 1924, the family left Benton County, Arkansas, and headed for a ranch near Crescent City in Northern California that Robert's uncle and namesake, Robert William Miller, had given him. Mimi had only been out of Benton County once and then only a few miles into Oklahoma.
There were 24 people and a collie named Socrates in the moving party packed into a new Maxwell, a Ford, a Buick and a Ford Truck. They were: Mimi and Robert, Herbert and Hershel, Blanche, Margaret, Don, Dick, Maxine, Ruth, Bill, JK (just 7 weeks old), Uncle John Miller (Robert's brother) and his wife Aunt Dove and their 5 girls, Mimi's brother Uncle Claude Callis, Aunt Arthula and their son Louis, Mimi's father John Hamilton Callis, who was 64 years old, and Cora Nichols, Mimi's twin.
The first stop was Grove, Oklahoma, at Mimi's brother Uncle Clark's home. Aunt Cora only went that far. Uncle Clark had a big going away party for the family. Each night while traveling they stayed in campgrounds. The women would wash clothes and the men would work on the cars and truck.
In Colorado there was an inspection stop for boll weevils so the family had to empty all their boxes. the Rocky Mountains were too big for Robert so his sons Herbert and Hershel drove. The family drove down through Oregon and reached Crescent City on Don's birthday, August 30th. The trip had taken 30 days. When they first saw the Pacific Ocean Mimi said,"I think we've come too far."
On their new ranch they lived in tents. The children had fun playing in the river but Socrates, the collie, got ahold of a dead salmon and died. They wouldn't let Grandad (John Hamilton) Callis play his fiddle for fear it would attract bears and Indians.
In September it was time for school so the family moved into town. Uncle John Miller took his family to Smith River. That winter Uncle John's youngest girl died, their house and car burned, but they stayed on in Smith River. There was a hurricane which ruined part of Crescent City. Mimi was sick all winter because the damp weather caused her to have rheumatism. Uncle Claude and Aunt Arthula left Crescent City and moved to Ojai, writing back about the warm and beautiful valley.
As soon as school was out in 1925 the Millers headed south, stopped in Suisun and leased a ranch with apricots and peaches. Mimi always said that that was one of the happiest years of her life. Robert took Hershel and Margaret to Ojai and liked it so well they decided to move down in the Fall of 1926.
--------------------
SOURCES
Memories of Robert William Miller, Jr.
Census and other researched records
www.millerinfo.net/genealogy
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Cliva Maxine Wolfe (1914-2010)
 |
| Cliva Maxine Wolfe |
She was married to Donald Robert Miller on 20 May 1934. As a note of interest, the Wolfe family was shown to be living nearby the Miller family residence in the 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR.
Maxine was a bookkeeper for the Village Florist in Ojai which was owned by her nephew, David Miller Mason.
Don passed away in 1969 and Maxine remained a widow for the remainder of her life.
She died on 31 March 2010 at the age of 95 in Ojai, Ventura County, CA.
OBITUARY - Wife of Donald R. Miller
Daughter of Charles Henry (Charlie) & Missouri Belle Carter Wolfe
MAXINE WOLFE MILLER passed away March 31, 2010, In Ojai. She was born September 16, 1914 in
Date: April 2, 2010
____________________________________________________
RECORDS
23 Jan 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Wolfe family living in dwelling #55. Maxine's Future husband, Donald Miller, lived in dwelling #50:
(illegible) Wolfe 40 VA VA VA Farmer
Missouri B. 37 TN TN TN
Audra 15 VA VA TN
Tola 13 VA VA TN
Maxine 5 OK VA TN
--------------------
2 April 1930 census of Centerton, Benton County, AR, found the Wolfe family living in dwelling #7:
Charley H. Wolf 50 VA VA VA Common labor - Farm
Missouri B. 47 TN TN TN
Loler 22 VA VA VA Salesman - General store
Cleva M. 16 OK VA TN
--------------------
9 April 1940 census of Centerton, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #43. They said that they both lived in Benton County, AR, on 1 April 1935:
Donald Miller 27 AR - Completed 2 years of high school education, Salesman - Feed
Maxine Miller 25 OK - Completed 3 years of high school education
--------------------
SOURCES
Refer to www.millerinfo.net/genealogy, family records and research.
Find A Grave Memorial
SOURCES
Refer to www.millerinfo.net/genealogy, family records and research.
Find A Grave Memorial
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Group Family Photos
 |
| About 1940. Front: Aunt Ruth holding Kathy Miller, Aunt Margaret holding Janice, Aunt Maxine holding David, Mimi sitting behind Maxine. Possibly the girl on right front is Valerie. Aunt Cora standing in back row, third from left. One of the women is possibly Aunt Arthula, maybe 2nd from back left. (Original photo in possession of Margot Mason Clarke) |
Robert William Miller (1879-1933)
 |
| Robert William "Bob" Miller |
At the age of 23, Robert married Dora Ann Callis on 10 January 1903. That ceremony also included the marriage of Dora’s twin sister, Cora Ann to Charles Elmore Nichols.
Robert and Dora Ann (Mimi), had 10 children, all born in
Arkansas. Elisha True Miller, James Herbert Miller and John Hershel Miller who
were twins, Cora Margaret Miller, Dick Clifford Miller, Donald Robert Miller,
Violet Maxine Miller, Winnie Ruth Miller, Robert William Miller and Jesse
Kennedy Miller. They also raised their niece, Blanche Ping, daughter of
Margaret Elizabeth Miller and Otis Warren Ping. Blanche’s mother had died
shortly after her birth and her father died 2 years later.
In August of 1924, Robert Miller and John Miller families
moved nearby to Crescent City, Del Norte County in Northern California and a year later, Robert and
Dora settled in Ojai, Ventura County, California.
Memories of his father by Robert William Miller Jr.: "Dad nearly always had a pipe in his mouth. He had three convenience stores/gas stations and one of them now has a pizza parlor in it."
Memories of his father by Robert William Miller Jr.: "Dad nearly always had a pipe in his mouth. He had three convenience stores/gas stations and one of them now has a pizza parlor in it."
Robert passed away on 30 January 1933 in Ojai at the age of
53 of heart failure and is buried in the Ivy Lawn Cemetery, Ventura County,
California.
From the booklet, Robert William Miller, Dora Ann Callis and their descendants; compiled in June 1980 by Margot Mason Stockstill: "The Millers came to America in the mid 1700's from Aberdeen, Scotland where they had married into the families of Gordon and Elliot. In America our line of Millers married with the Art, Kennedy and Ping families before our Robert William married Cora Ann Callis.
Robert William Miller was a hardworking man. He worked in a vinegar plant in Rogers, Ark. and later managed a plant in Centerton, Ark. For a while he and a neighbor, Mr. Perry, drilled water wells. He bought a half interest in the Centerton Hardware Store which he operated until the family moved to California.
While in Crescent City, Ca. he was a carpenter and he ran a fruit ranch while the family lived in Suisun. In Ojai he leased an apricot ranch and then later owned a little store with a service station at the foot of Dennison Grade.
Robert died in Ojai while he was working for the county during the Depression. He had "a good head for math" as my mother says, and a beautiful bass voice."
______________________________________________
RECORDS
Robert William Miller
1880 - Willow Hill, Jasper, IL
1900 - Dickson, Benton, AR
1910 - Garland, Benton, AR
1920 - Garland, Benton, AR
1930 - Ojai, Ventura, CA
James Miller 39 IL OH OH Farmer
Mary 37 IN KY KY
Alwilda Higgins 18 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Minnie Higgins 16 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Nancy Higgins 12 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Albert Miller 7 IL IL IN
Alphon 3 IL IL IN
Robert 7/12 IL IL IN
--------------------
James Miller moved his family to Arkansas around 1884, prior to birth of son John.
--------------------
22 June 1900 census of Dickson, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #177. James and Mary said that they had been married 29 years and 8 of their 12 children were still living:
James D. Miller 12/1839 60 IL OH IL Farmer
Mary E. 3/1884 56 IN KY KY
Alphon 1/1877 23 IL IL IN Farm laborer
Robert W. 11/1879 20 IL IL IN Farm laborer
John 9/1884 15 AR IL IN Farm laborer
Maggie 10/1896 13 AR IL IN
--------------------
"Arkansas, County Marriages, 1837-1957," R W Miller, 1903
name:R W Miller
Event:Marriage
Event date:11 Jan 1903
Event place:, Benton, Arkansas, United States
Age:23
Estimated birth year:1880
Residence:Hiwassee, Benton, Arkansas
Spouse:Dora Callis
Spouse's age:19
Spouse's estimated birth year:1884
Spouse's residence:Calis, Benton, Arkansas
Marriage license date:10 Jan 1903
Page:294
Film number:1034662
Digital folder number:004401667
Image number:00542
Source Citation: "Arkansas, County Marriages, 1837-1957," index and images, FamilySearch, R W Miller and Dora Callis, 1903.
--------------------
18 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton county, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #32. Robert and Dora said that they had been married 7 years and 4 of their 5 children were still living:
Robert W. Miller 30 IL IL IL Farmer
Dora N. 26 AR AR TN
Herbert J. 5 AR IL AR
Hershell J. 5 AR IL AR
Maggie C. 2 AR IL AR
Unnamed son 0/12 AR IL AR
--------------------
In his WWI Draft Registration Card dated 12 Sept 1918, Robert William Miller said that he was born 1 Nov 1879. He was living with his wife, Dora Miller, in Centerton, Benton County, AR, where he was a self-employed merchant.
"United States, World War One Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," Robert William Miller
Name:Robert William Miller
Event:Draft Registration
Registration date year range:1917-1918
Event place:Benton County, Arkansas, United States
Gender:Male
Birth date:01 Nov 1879
Birthplace:, , United States
Country of citizenship:United States
Nara publication title:World War I Selective Service System Draft Registration Cards
Nara publication number:M1509
Film number:1522737
Digital folder number:005150418
Image number:01444
Source Citation: "United States, World War One Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," index and images, FamilySearch, accessed 15 Aug 2012), Robert William Miller, .
--------------------
23 Jan 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #50 on Fourth Street:
R. W. Miller 40 IL IL IN Salesman - H.W.D.
Dora 36 AR AR TN
Hurbert 14 AR IL AR Twin
Herschell 14 AR IL AR Twin
Maggie 12 AR IL AR
Dick 9 AR IL AR
Donald 7 AR IL AR
Maxine 3 AR IL AR
Ruth 1 6/12 AR IL AR
Blanche Pitts 13 IL IL AR Niece
J. D. Miller 80 IL OH IL Father, Widowed
--------------------
Mildred Miller said that the John Miller and Robert Miller families all went to California together, leaving from Southwest City, MO, and traveling through Oklahoma, Kansas and eventually Oregon. They finally arrived in California in August of 1924. She said that Louoma's mother was a Callis, as was Robert Miller's wife.
--------------------
26 April 1930 census of District 19, Ojai, Ventura County, CA, found the Miller family living in dwelling #344. Robert and Dora said that they were first married at ages 23 and 19 respectively. Living nearby were Dora's father, John H. Callis (76) and brothers Claude (40) and George (45) and their families:
Robert W. Miller 50 IL IL IN Operator - Service station
Dora 46 AR AR TN
Herbert 26 AR IL AR Rancher - Fruit ranch
Dick 20 AR IL AR Rancher - Fruit ranch
Donald 18 AR Il AR Gardener - Private home
Maxine 14 AR Il AR
Ruth 12 AR IL AR
R. W. 9 AR IL AR
J. K. 5 AR IL AR
--------------------
Obituary - Robert W. Miller, a resident of Centerton for many years, died at his home in Ojai, Calif., January 30, 1933 of heart failure. He was 53 years of age. Burial was made at the Ivy Lane cemetery at Ventura. Mr. Miller was associated with Joe Rakes in the former Centerton Hardware Co. for several years. Besides his widow Dora C. Miller, he is survived by six sons, Richard, Donald, Robert W., Jr., and J. K. Miller of Ojai, California, Hershell Miller of Maryland, and Hubert Miller of Arkansas. Also by three daughters Mrs. Margaret Catterlin and Ruth and Maxine Miller of the home. He also raised a niece, Mrs. Blanche P. MacDonald whom he dearly loved. (Benton County Record & Democrat, Sun 2/23/1933)
--------------------
ROBERT MILLER - Obituaries and Funeral Program
Masonic funeral services for Robert W. Miller who died suddenly Monday noon of heart failure were held from the Reardon chapel in Ventura Wednesday afternoon with W. T. Frederick, worshipful master, and Berkeley Brandt, acting chaplain in charge. Mr. Miller was the past master of a lodge in Arkansas and had been prominent in the order in the South. The pall bearers were Lloyd T. Poplin, Frank H. De Line, M.L. McDonald, Keo Crowder and Elmer Friend of Ojai and W.H. Elam of Ventura. Masonic ceremonies also accompanied interment at Ivy Lawn.
Mr. Miller who was but 51 years of age, had been a respected resident of the Valley for many years. He had been working Monday morning although he had complained a little of a tightness in his chest, and after luncheon suddenly dropped dead.
Besides his widow Mr. Miller leaves his nine children most of them grown or nearly so: Mrs. Margaret Catterlin, Richard, Donald, Maxine, Ruth, Robert Jr., and Jessie, all of Ojai; and the twins Herbert of Texas and Hershel of Detroit.
Crossing The Bar
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the Bar
When I put out to sea.
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.
~Tennyson
--------------------
FUNERAL CONDUCTED FOR ROBERT MILLER
OJAI, Feb. 1. --Funeral services were conducted this afternoon for Robert Miller, prominent Mason, who dropped dead Monday of heart disease. Masons were in charge at Reardon chapel, Ventura, and burial in Ivy Lawn Cemetery. W.T. Frederick and Berkeley Brandt, Master and Chaplain, represented Ojai lodge. Pallbearers included Lloyd Poplin, Frank Deline, M.L. McDonald, Leo Crowder and Elmer Friend of Ojai, and W.H. Elom of Ventura.
--------------------
According to a booklet entitled "Robert William Miller, Dora Ann Callis and their decendents" by Margot Mason Stockstill - June 1980:
"The Miller's came to America in the mid 1700's from Aberdeen, Scotland where they had married into the families of Gordon and Elliot. In America the Miller's married with the Art, Kennedy & Ping families before the marriage of Robert William. The Callises were aristocrats in England and among the first settlers in Virginia, according to family tradition. They married into the Bannister, Ford and Duncan families before Mimi linked up with the Millers."
--------------------
ROBERT WILLIAM MILLER
By Maxine Miller Mason
b. 1 Nov. 1879 Willow Hill, Ill.
d. 30 Jan. 1933 Ojai, Ca.
The Millers came to America in the mid 1700's from Aberdeen, Scotland where they had married into the families of Gordon and Elliot. In America, our line of Millers married with the Art, Kennedy and Ping families before our Robert William married Dora Ann Callis.
Robert William Miller was a hard working man. He worked in a vinegar plant in Rogers, Ark. and later managed a plant in Centerton, Ark. For a while he and a neighbor, Mr. Perry, drilled water wells. He bought a half interest in the Centerton Hardware Store which he operated until the family moved to California. While in Crescent City, Ca. he was a carpenter and he ran a fruit ranch while the family lived in Suisun. In Ojai he leased an apricot ranch and then later owned a little store with a service station at the foot of Dennison Grade.
Robert died in Ojai while he was working for the county during the Depression. He had "a good head for math" as my mother says, and a beautiful bass voice.
--------------------
THE TRIP TO CALIFORNIA (as remembered by Maxine Miller Mason and written by Margot Mason Stockstill)
On August 1, 1924, the family left Benton County, Arkansas, and headed for a ranch near Crescent City in Northern California that Robert's uncle and namesake, Robert William Miller, had given him. Mimi had only been out of Benton County once and then only a few miles into Oklahoma.
There were 24 people and a collie named Socrates in the moving party packed into a new Maxwell, a Ford, a Buick and a Ford Truck. They were: Mimi and Robert, Herbert and Hershel, Blanche, Margaret, Don, Dick, Maxine, Ruth, Bill, JK (just 7 weeks old), Uncle John Miller (Robert's brother) and his wife Aunt Dove and their 5 girls, Mimi's brother Uncle Claude Callis, Aunt Arthula and their son Louis, Mimi's father John Hamilton Callis, who was 64 years old, and Cora Nichols, Mimi's twin.
The first stop was Grove, Oklahoma, at Mimi's brother Uncle Clark's home. Aunt Cora only went that far. Uncle Clark had a big going away party for the family. Each night while traveling they stayed in campgrounds. The women would wash clothes and the men would work on the cars and truck.
In Colorado there was an inspection stop for boll weevils so the family had to empty all their boxes. the Rocky Mountains were too big for Robert so his sons Herbert and Hershel drove. The family drove down through Oregon and reached Crescent City on Don's birthday, August 30th. The trip had taken 30 days. When they first saw the Pacific Ocean Mimi said,"I think we've come too far."
On their new ranch they lived in tents. The children had fun playing in the river but Socrates, the collie, got ahold of a dead salmon and died. They wouldn't let Grandad (John Hamilton) Callis play his fiddle for fear it would attract bears and Indians.
In September it was time for school so the family moved into town. Uncle John Miller took his family to Smith River. That winter Uncle John's youngest girl died, their house and car burned, but they stayed on in Smith River. There was a hurricane which ruined part of Crescent City. Mimi was sick all winter because the damp weather caused her to have rheumatism. Uncle Claude and Aunt Arthula left Crescent City and moved to Ojai, writing back about the warm and beautiful valley.
As soon as school was out in 1925 the Millers headed south, stopped in Suisun and leased a ranch with apricots and peaches. Mimi always said that that was one of the happiest years of her life. Robert took Hershel and Margaret to Ojai and liked it so well they decided to move down in the Fall of 1926.
SOURCES
Refer to www.millerinfo.net/genealogy, Memories of Robert William Miller Jr., Miller Family Reunion booklet compiled by Margot Mason Stockstill, family records and research.
Find A Grave Memorial
From the booklet, Robert William Miller, Dora Ann Callis and their descendants; compiled in June 1980 by Margot Mason Stockstill: "The Millers came to America in the mid 1700's from Aberdeen, Scotland where they had married into the families of Gordon and Elliot. In America our line of Millers married with the Art, Kennedy and Ping families before our Robert William married Cora Ann Callis.
Robert William Miller was a hardworking man. He worked in a vinegar plant in Rogers, Ark. and later managed a plant in Centerton, Ark. For a while he and a neighbor, Mr. Perry, drilled water wells. He bought a half interest in the Centerton Hardware Store which he operated until the family moved to California.
While in Crescent City, Ca. he was a carpenter and he ran a fruit ranch while the family lived in Suisun. In Ojai he leased an apricot ranch and then later owned a little store with a service station at the foot of Dennison Grade.
Robert died in Ojai while he was working for the county during the Depression. He had "a good head for math" as my mother says, and a beautiful bass voice."
______________________________________________
RECORDS
Robert William Miller
1880 - Willow Hill, Jasper, IL
1900 - Dickson, Benton, AR
1910 - Garland, Benton, AR
1920 - Garland, Benton, AR
1930 - Ojai, Ventura, CA
--------------------
14 June 1880 census of Willow Hill, Jasper County, IL, found the Miller family living in dwelling #215. Also in the household were Mary's three daughter from her first marriage:James Miller 39 IL OH OH Farmer
Mary 37 IN KY KY
Alwilda Higgins 18 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Minnie Higgins 16 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Nancy Higgins 12 IL KY IN Step-daughter
Albert Miller 7 IL IL IN
Alphon 3 IL IL IN
Robert 7/12 IL IL IN
--------------------
James Miller moved his family to Arkansas around 1884, prior to birth of son John.
--------------------
22 June 1900 census of Dickson, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #177. James and Mary said that they had been married 29 years and 8 of their 12 children were still living:
James D. Miller 12/1839 60 IL OH IL Farmer
Mary E. 3/1884 56 IN KY KY
Alphon 1/1877 23 IL IL IN Farm laborer
Robert W. 11/1879 20 IL IL IN Farm laborer
John 9/1884 15 AR IL IN Farm laborer
Maggie 10/1896 13 AR IL IN
--------------------
"Arkansas, County Marriages, 1837-1957," R W Miller, 1903
name:R W Miller
Event:Marriage
Event date:11 Jan 1903
Event place:, Benton, Arkansas, United States
Age:23
Estimated birth year:1880
Residence:Hiwassee, Benton, Arkansas
Spouse:Dora Callis
Spouse's age:19
Spouse's estimated birth year:1884
Spouse's residence:Calis, Benton, Arkansas
Marriage license date:10 Jan 1903
Page:294
Film number:1034662
Digital folder number:004401667
Image number:00542
Source Citation: "Arkansas, County Marriages, 1837-1957," index and images, FamilySearch, R W Miller and Dora Callis, 1903.
--------------------
18 April 1910 census of Garland, Benton county, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #32. Robert and Dora said that they had been married 7 years and 4 of their 5 children were still living:
Robert W. Miller 30 IL IL IL Farmer
Dora N. 26 AR AR TN
Herbert J. 5 AR IL AR
Hershell J. 5 AR IL AR
Maggie C. 2 AR IL AR
Unnamed son 0/12 AR IL AR
--------------------
In his WWI Draft Registration Card dated 12 Sept 1918, Robert William Miller said that he was born 1 Nov 1879. He was living with his wife, Dora Miller, in Centerton, Benton County, AR, where he was a self-employed merchant.
"United States, World War One Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," Robert William Miller
Name:Robert William Miller
Event:Draft Registration
Registration date year range:1917-1918
Event place:Benton County, Arkansas, United States
Gender:Male
Birth date:01 Nov 1879
Birthplace:, , United States
Country of citizenship:United States
Nara publication title:World War I Selective Service System Draft Registration Cards
Nara publication number:M1509
Film number:1522737
Digital folder number:005150418
Image number:01444
Source Citation: "United States, World War One Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," index and images, FamilySearch, accessed 15 Aug 2012), Robert William Miller, .
--------------------
23 Jan 1920 census of Garland, Benton County, AR, found the Miller family living in dwelling #50 on Fourth Street:
R. W. Miller 40 IL IL IN Salesman - H.W.D.
Dora 36 AR AR TN
Hurbert 14 AR IL AR Twin
Herschell 14 AR IL AR Twin
Maggie 12 AR IL AR
Dick 9 AR IL AR
Donald 7 AR IL AR
Maxine 3 AR IL AR
Ruth 1 6/12 AR IL AR
Blanche Pitts 13 IL IL AR Niece
J. D. Miller 80 IL OH IL Father, Widowed
--------------------
Mildred Miller said that the John Miller and Robert Miller families all went to California together, leaving from Southwest City, MO, and traveling through Oklahoma, Kansas and eventually Oregon. They finally arrived in California in August of 1924. She said that Louoma's mother was a Callis, as was Robert Miller's wife.
--------------------
26 April 1930 census of District 19, Ojai, Ventura County, CA, found the Miller family living in dwelling #344. Robert and Dora said that they were first married at ages 23 and 19 respectively. Living nearby were Dora's father, John H. Callis (76) and brothers Claude (40) and George (45) and their families:
Robert W. Miller 50 IL IL IN Operator - Service station
Dora 46 AR AR TN
Herbert 26 AR IL AR Rancher - Fruit ranch
Dick 20 AR IL AR Rancher - Fruit ranch
Donald 18 AR Il AR Gardener - Private home
Maxine 14 AR Il AR
Ruth 12 AR IL AR
R. W. 9 AR IL AR
J. K. 5 AR IL AR
--------------------
Obituary - Robert W. Miller, a resident of Centerton for many years, died at his home in Ojai, Calif., January 30, 1933 of heart failure. He was 53 years of age. Burial was made at the Ivy Lane cemetery at Ventura. Mr. Miller was associated with Joe Rakes in the former Centerton Hardware Co. for several years. Besides his widow Dora C. Miller, he is survived by six sons, Richard, Donald, Robert W., Jr., and J. K. Miller of Ojai, California, Hershell Miller of Maryland, and Hubert Miller of Arkansas. Also by three daughters Mrs. Margaret Catterlin and Ruth and Maxine Miller of the home. He also raised a niece, Mrs. Blanche P. MacDonald whom he dearly loved. (Benton County Record & Democrat, Sun 2/23/1933)
--------------------
ROBERT MILLER - Obituaries and Funeral Program
Masonic funeral services for Robert W. Miller who died suddenly Monday noon of heart failure were held from the Reardon chapel in Ventura Wednesday afternoon with W. T. Frederick, worshipful master, and Berkeley Brandt, acting chaplain in charge. Mr. Miller was the past master of a lodge in Arkansas and had been prominent in the order in the South. The pall bearers were Lloyd T. Poplin, Frank H. De Line, M.L. McDonald, Keo Crowder and Elmer Friend of Ojai and W.H. Elam of Ventura. Masonic ceremonies also accompanied interment at Ivy Lawn.
Mr. Miller who was but 51 years of age, had been a respected resident of the Valley for many years. He had been working Monday morning although he had complained a little of a tightness in his chest, and after luncheon suddenly dropped dead.
Besides his widow Mr. Miller leaves his nine children most of them grown or nearly so: Mrs. Margaret Catterlin, Richard, Donald, Maxine, Ruth, Robert Jr., and Jessie, all of Ojai; and the twins Herbert of Texas and Hershel of Detroit.
Crossing The Bar
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the Bar
When I put out to sea.
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.
~Tennyson
--------------------
FUNERAL CONDUCTED FOR ROBERT MILLER
OJAI, Feb. 1. --Funeral services were conducted this afternoon for Robert Miller, prominent Mason, who dropped dead Monday of heart disease. Masons were in charge at Reardon chapel, Ventura, and burial in Ivy Lawn Cemetery. W.T. Frederick and Berkeley Brandt, Master and Chaplain, represented Ojai lodge. Pallbearers included Lloyd Poplin, Frank Deline, M.L. McDonald, Leo Crowder and Elmer Friend of Ojai, and W.H. Elom of Ventura.
--------------------
According to a booklet entitled "Robert William Miller, Dora Ann Callis and their decendents" by Margot Mason Stockstill - June 1980:
"The Miller's came to America in the mid 1700's from Aberdeen, Scotland where they had married into the families of Gordon and Elliot. In America the Miller's married with the Art, Kennedy & Ping families before the marriage of Robert William. The Callises were aristocrats in England and among the first settlers in Virginia, according to family tradition. They married into the Bannister, Ford and Duncan families before Mimi linked up with the Millers."
--------------------
ROBERT WILLIAM MILLER
By Maxine Miller Mason
b. 1 Nov. 1879 Willow Hill, Ill.
d. 30 Jan. 1933 Ojai, Ca.
The Millers came to America in the mid 1700's from Aberdeen, Scotland where they had married into the families of Gordon and Elliot. In America, our line of Millers married with the Art, Kennedy and Ping families before our Robert William married Dora Ann Callis.
Robert William Miller was a hard working man. He worked in a vinegar plant in Rogers, Ark. and later managed a plant in Centerton, Ark. For a while he and a neighbor, Mr. Perry, drilled water wells. He bought a half interest in the Centerton Hardware Store which he operated until the family moved to California. While in Crescent City, Ca. he was a carpenter and he ran a fruit ranch while the family lived in Suisun. In Ojai he leased an apricot ranch and then later owned a little store with a service station at the foot of Dennison Grade.
Robert died in Ojai while he was working for the county during the Depression. He had "a good head for math" as my mother says, and a beautiful bass voice.
--------------------
THE TRIP TO CALIFORNIA (as remembered by Maxine Miller Mason and written by Margot Mason Stockstill)
On August 1, 1924, the family left Benton County, Arkansas, and headed for a ranch near Crescent City in Northern California that Robert's uncle and namesake, Robert William Miller, had given him. Mimi had only been out of Benton County once and then only a few miles into Oklahoma.
There were 24 people and a collie named Socrates in the moving party packed into a new Maxwell, a Ford, a Buick and a Ford Truck. They were: Mimi and Robert, Herbert and Hershel, Blanche, Margaret, Don, Dick, Maxine, Ruth, Bill, JK (just 7 weeks old), Uncle John Miller (Robert's brother) and his wife Aunt Dove and their 5 girls, Mimi's brother Uncle Claude Callis, Aunt Arthula and their son Louis, Mimi's father John Hamilton Callis, who was 64 years old, and Cora Nichols, Mimi's twin.
The first stop was Grove, Oklahoma, at Mimi's brother Uncle Clark's home. Aunt Cora only went that far. Uncle Clark had a big going away party for the family. Each night while traveling they stayed in campgrounds. The women would wash clothes and the men would work on the cars and truck.
In Colorado there was an inspection stop for boll weevils so the family had to empty all their boxes. the Rocky Mountains were too big for Robert so his sons Herbert and Hershel drove. The family drove down through Oregon and reached Crescent City on Don's birthday, August 30th. The trip had taken 30 days. When they first saw the Pacific Ocean Mimi said,"I think we've come too far."
On their new ranch they lived in tents. The children had fun playing in the river but Socrates, the collie, got ahold of a dead salmon and died. They wouldn't let Grandad (John Hamilton) Callis play his fiddle for fear it would attract bears and Indians.
In September it was time for school so the family moved into town. Uncle John Miller took his family to Smith River. That winter Uncle John's youngest girl died, their house and car burned, but they stayed on in Smith River. There was a hurricane which ruined part of Crescent City. Mimi was sick all winter because the damp weather caused her to have rheumatism. Uncle Claude and Aunt Arthula left Crescent City and moved to Ojai, writing back about the warm and beautiful valley.
As soon as school was out in 1925 the Millers headed south, stopped in Suisun and leased a ranch with apricots and peaches. Mimi always said that that was one of the happiest years of her life. Robert took Hershel and Margaret to Ojai and liked it so well they decided to move down in the Fall of 1926.
SOURCES
Refer to www.millerinfo.net/genealogy, Memories of Robert William Miller Jr., Miller Family Reunion booklet compiled by Margot Mason Stockstill, family records and research.
Find A Grave Memorial
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