1.3.1.6 Andrew Kessler Jr. (1817-1896) – Kessler/Keslar/Kesler Family History (Johann George Bernhard)

1.3.1.6 Andrew Kessler Jr. (b: 3 Jul 1817-d: 7 Nov 1896 Frederick, Md.)

Andrew Jr. was the son of Andrew and May. He married Loretta Lamar (1817-1896) in 1837. The Lamars were a well-known and respected family. active in the Revolutionary War and founding of the country. Andrew and Loretta had seven children. He and his brothers Israel ‘Jerry’ and Absalom P. succeeded their father as family patriarchs and expanded the family’s land holdings and wealth in Jefferson County over his lifetime.

Before his father’s death, Andrew Jr. purchased a farm about a quarter mile south of the original family farm, at the intersection of Lander and Sigler roads. Later he was bequeathed land for a farm on the north side of Jefferson Pike by his father-in-law, Thomas Lamar, and he built a house, barn and farm at that location.

Andrew was a Maryland Legislator and at the beginning of the Civil War was arrested along with other legislators who had known southern sympathies. They were detained until they swore and oath of allegiance to the United States. Having visited his farmhouse in 2018, I could imagine him and other sympathizers holding meetings in his kitchen beside the big fireplace.

I distinctly remember as a child hearing family stories about some of our ancestors. My grandfather, Edgar F. Kessler Sr. was alive at the time and his father, William, was one of Andrew Kessler’s sons, so he had firsthand knowledge of what happened in Frederick during the late 1800s.

According to family lore, Andrew Jr. (Jul 3, 1817 – Nov 7, 1896) was very well-off because of the efforts of his grandfather and father and their farming and investment activities. He had had become ill in the 1890s and left the business dealings of the farms and real estate to his sons. However, over a period of many years they spent his fortune without his knowledge. Consequently, they mortgaged the properties to continue paying for operations. The legend has it that on the day Andrew Jr. died, he entered his bank in downtown Frederick, was informed of his insolvency, and subsequently died of a heart attack outside the bank. This story is confirmed in a newspaper article and the fact that his farms were sold by the bank in 1896.

My brother Ed and I investigated this rumor during a trip to Frederick and discovered newspaper and genealogical evidence that the story was true. Here is an excerpt we found in the Frederick News, dated Saturday, November 7, 1896:

Frederick News Saturday, November 7, 1896, Sudden Death in the Street

Mr. Andrew Kessler, a well-known farmer of Jefferson, this county, fell in front of Smith’s Temple of Fancy (a confectionery) a few minutes before twelve o’clock today and almost instantly expired.

He was picked up and carried into the store, where he died without regaining consciousness. The deceased was well and widely known and a farmer of considerable means. He owns two farms near Jefferson but has lately made his home with one of his sons in that village. He was also well-known in this city.

Mr. Kessler was a venerable man of probably 85 years of age and had led an active life. He was a member of the Maryland Legislature from Frederick County in the year 1860, during the time that Governor Hicks was Chief Magistrate of the State of Maryland.

Soon after Mr. Kessler was carried from the pavement to the store, Dr. Lewis A. Burch was called in, but death had already ensued. Magistrate Thomas Turner and Thaddeus M. Biser were notified and after hearing the circumstances of the death Mr. Smith concluded that a coroner’s inquest would be unnecessary and authorized the remains to be turned over to undertaker Hutchinson.

The deceased had four sons – Mssrs. Edward, Thomas, John and William Kessler and three daughters. Quite a number of people viewed the remains in the store, some of whom were well-acquainted with the deceased.

Frederick News Monday, November 9, 1896

Funeral of Mr. Andrew Kessler, who died suddenly took place this afternoon at 2 o’clock in Jefferson. Services were held in M.E. Church and interment was made in the burying ground adjacent to the church. The deceased made his home with his son, Thomas Kessler.

The story is reinforced by subsequent census data. My grandfather recounted that as a result of financial circumstances, he and his family (parents and siblings) were forced to live with one of William’s married sisters, Isabella and her husband William A. Figgins on their farm located in Buckeystown, Frederick County, Maryland. This is confirmed by the 1900 U.S. Census wherein William Figgins reports that his brother-in-law (William A. Kessler, age 41), sister-in-law (Alberta G., age 23) and their four children (Blanche, Edgar F., Nellie V., and Clara E.) were residing on his farm.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT – 1820 TO 1861

Andrew, Jr. was born in 1817 into an America that was poised for growth and expansion. By 1820 the U.S. population had grown to more than 10 million. Many were fiercely independent and strongly opposed to government control and interference and moving ever westward in search of opportunities and advancement. The Erie Canal opened in 1825, the Sante Fe Trail was opened from St. Louis, Missouri to Sante Fe, New Mexico, and the Oregon Trail opened in 1843. Gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill in California in 1848, causing a gold rush that prompted many Americans to head west in search of their fortune.

Railroads such as the Baltimore and Ohio were expanding in both the east and to western parts of the country. Cyrus McCormick invented the reaper which increased agricultural efficiency, and the sewing machine was invented in 1846.

But other events overshadowed the excitement of American expansion including economic disruptions and the slavery issue. The Kessler family’s primary source of income was from farming. Economic downturns influenced crop prices and consequently the income levels of farmers. But they were less impacted than those living and working in cities and the manufacturing sector. The family also owned and used slaves on their farms. But the family had mixed views about the issue of slavery, as was seen when the Civil War started in the early 1860s.

In an effort to preserve the balance of power in Congress between slave and free states, the Missouri Compromise was passed in 1820 admitting Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state. Furthermore, with the exception of Missouri, this law prohibited slavery in the Louisiana Territory north of the 36° 30´ latitude line. In 1854, the Missouri Compromise was repealed by the Kansas-Nebraska Act. Three years later the Missouri Compromise was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in the Dred Scott decision, which ruled that Congress did not have the authority to prohibit slavery in the territories.

Another major issue that likely shaped Andrew’s political views was how the country dealt with native Americans. The Indian Removal Act was signed into law by President Andrew Jackson on May 28, 1830, authorizing the president to grant unsettled lands west of the Mississippi in exchange for Indian lands within existing state borders. A few tribes went peacefully, but many resisted the relocation policy. During the fall and winter of 1838 and 1839, the Cherokees were forcibly moved west by the United States government. Approximately 4,000 Cherokees died on this forced march, which became known as the “Trail of Tears.”

The White House was occupied by many presidents during Andrew’s early years leading to the Civil War:

- 1816 and 1820 elections: The election came at the end of the two-term presidency of Democratic-Republican James Madison. With the opposition Federalist Party in collapse, Madison’s Secretary of State, James Monroe, won the nomination against a divided opposition and won the electoral college by the wide margin of 183 to 34.

The War of 1812 dominated the previous four years. While it had not ended in victory, the peace was nonetheless satisfactory to the American people, and the Democratic-Republicans received the credit for its prosecution. The Federalists had been discredited by their opposition to the war and secessionist rhetoric from New England. Furthermore, President Madison had adopted such Federalist policies as a national bank and protective tariffs, which would give the Federalists few issues to campaign on.

- 1824 election: John Quincy Adams was elected President on February 9, 1825. The election was the only one in history to be decided by the House of Representatives under the provisions of the Twelfth Amendment to the United States Constitution after no candidate secured a majority of the electoral vote. It was also the first U.S. presidential election where the popular vote was recorded, and the only presidential election in which the candidate who received a plurality of electoral votes (Andrew Jackson) did not become President, a source of great bitterness for Jackson and his supporters, who proclaimed the election of Adams a corrupt bargain.

Prior to the election, the Democratic-Republican Party had won six consecutive presidential elections. In 1824 the Democratic-Republican Party failed to agree on a choice of candidate for president, with the result that the party effectively ceased to exist and split four ways behind four separate candidates. Later, the faction led by Jackson would evolve into the modern Democratic Party in the 1828 election, while the factions led by Adams and Henry Clay would become the National Republican Party (not related to the current Republican Party) and then the Whig Party.

- 1828 & 1832 elections: Andrew Jackson was elected as the first Democratic president in 1829 and again in 1832. During Jackson’s time in office, a number of pivotal events occurred which Andrew Jr., who was a teenager, must have been acutely aware of. Jackson vetoed a bill renewing the Second National Bank of the U.S. in 1832. He then ordered funds withdrawn from the National Bank before it was closed, depositing them in state banks and depleting availability of funds and lending across state lines. This act set the stage for a major economic panic in 1837, which bankrupted many and created large numbers of unemployed.
- 1836 election: Martin Van Buren, another Democrat, succeeded Jackson in 1836.
- 1840 election: William Henry Harrison was elected in 1840. The election saw President Martin van Buren fight for re-election against an economic depression and a Whig Party unified for the first time behind war hero William Henry Harrison. Rallying under the slogan “Tippecanoe and Tyler, too,” the Whigs easily defeated Van Buren. President Harrison died one month after assuming office, making the Vice-President-elect John Tyler the President for the remainder of his term.
- 1844 election: James K. Polk was elected. He embraced American territorial expansionism, an idea soon to be called Manifest Destiny. His Democratic party called for annexation of Texas and asserted that the United States had a “clear and unquestionable” claim to “the whole” of Oregon. By informally tying the Oregon boundary dispute to the more controversial Texas debate, the Democrats appealed to both Northern expansionists who were adamant about the Oregon boundary and Southern expansionists focused on annexing Texas as a slave state.
- 1848 election: Zachary Taylor was elected, serving from March 1849 until his death in July 1850, when Millard Fillmore succeeded him.

After incumbent James Polk, having achieved his major objectives in one term and suffering from declining health, kept his promise not to seek re-election. The Whigs had focused all their energies on condemning Polk’s war policies but had to reverse course quickly. In February 1848 Polk surprised everyone by ending the Mexican-American War, giving the U.S. vast new territories including what are now the states of California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. This, of course, created significant friction over the issue of whether slavery could be banned from the new territories.

- 1856 election: James Buchanan was elected. James Buchanan, an experienced politician who had held a variety of political offices, was serving as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom and won the nomination instead.

Slavery was the omnipresent issue, while the Whig Party, which had since the 1830s been one of the two major parties in the U.S., had disintegrated. New parties such as the Republican Party (strongly against slavery’s expansion) and American, or “Know-Nothing,” Party (which ignored slavery and instead emphasized anti-immigration and anti-Catholic policies), competed to replace it as the principal opposition to the Democratic Party.[2] The Republican Party nominated John C. Frémont of California as its first presidential candidate. The Know-Nothing Party nominated former President Millard Fillmore, of New York.

Frémont condemned the Kansas–Nebraska Act and decried the expansion of slavery. Buchanan warned that the Republicans were extremists whose victory would lead to civil war. The Democrats endorsed popular sovereignty as the method to determine slavery’s legality for newly admitted states. Buchanan won a plurality of the popular vote, but a majority of the Electoral College, and defeated Fillmore and Frémont, with the latter receiving fewer than twelve hundred popular votes in the slave states, with all of these coming from Civil War border states. The results in the Electoral College indicated that the Republican Party could possibly win the next presidential election by capturing only two more states; indeed, 1856 proved to be the last Democratic presidential victory before 1884. The 1856 election also marks the last time that a Democrat had been elected to succeed a fellow Democrat as president without the previous president having died in office.

- 1860 election: Abraham Lincoln was elected, which effectively plunged the nation into civil war.

The slavery issue continued to divide the country. Nat Turner led a slave rebellion in southern Virginia in 1831, leading to the deaths of about 60 white people. Turner was executed for his role. The abolitionist movement gained strength in New England and other northern states. The famed underground railroad routes were established starting in 1838. The Compromise of 1850 and the Kansas-Nebraska Act were enacted, increasing pressure to abolish Slavery. The Dred Scott decision in 1857 ….. Mexico abolished slavery. in the 1820s and England did so in the 1830s across the British empire. In 1848, France abolishes slavery in its West Indies colonies.

Supreme Court rules that state laws prohibiting the capture and return of fugitive slaves are unconstitutional (Prigg v. Pennsylvania). 1843 Massachusetts passes law forbidding state officials from catching fugitive slaves. Sojourner Truth begins delivering abolitionist speeches across the nation. COMPROMISE OF 1850 allows residents of New Mexico and Utah territories to permit or ban slavery, admits California as a free state (31st), ends the slave trade (but not slavery) in the District of Columbia, and enacts a stricter fugitive slave law requiring citizens in free states to turn in runaway slaves. 1854 KANSAS-NEBRASKA ACT passed by Congress, repealing the Missouri Compromise and allowing Kansas and Nebraska settlers to decide status of slavery in the territories.

1855 “BLEEDING KANSAS”: Intense local warfare erupts between pro- and anti-slavery settlers. Walt Whitman anonymously publishes Leaves of Grass. 1857 DRED SCOTT DECISION: Supreme Court holds that Congress has no power to regulate slavery in the territories, that African Americans are not citizens, and that residence in free territory does not confer freedom on enslaved persons.

After a decade of political and cultural clashes between the Mexican government and the increasingly large population of American settlers in Texas, hostilities erupted in October 1835 with the Texas Revolution. Colonists (primarily from the United States) rebelled against the increasingly centralized Mexican government. The siege of the Alamo by Santa Ana occurred in 1836. The US recognized the Republic of Texas in 1837 and annexed it in 1845, which precipitated the Mexican-American War against Santa Ana from 1846 to 1848.

The United States continued to expand rapidly. Arkansas entered the Union as 25th state in 1836. Michigan became a state in 1837. In 1845 Florida enters Union as 27th state; Texas enters Union as 28th state. Iowa enters Union as 29th state in 1846. In 1848, Wisconsin enters Union as 30th state. In 1858 Minnesota enters Union as 32nd state and a year later, in 1859 Oregon entered the Union as 33rd state.

Irish potato famine begins; 1.5 million Irish emigrate to U.S. in the next decade.

1846 MEXICAN WAR begins; Congress declares war after Mexican troops attack U.S. troops in disputed territory north of the Rio Grande. 1847 U.S. forces defeat Mexican army at Veracruz and Mexico City. 1848 MEXICAN WAR ends officially by treaty. California Gold Rush begins.

By 1860 the U.S. population had increased to 31 million, about half of whom lived west of the Appalachian Mts. The population included 4.5 million African Americans, of whom 4 million are enslaved.

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION: Abraham Lincoln and Hannibal Hamlin are elected president and vice president (Republican). South Carolina secedes from the Union, the first state to do so.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT – 1861 TO 1865 – THE CIVIL WAR

Andrew, Jr. was directly involved in and witnessed the events that led to the Civil War. In fact, he played a significant role in the Civil War. According to the Maryland State Archives (The General Assembly Moves to Frederick, 1861), in early 1861, Maryland was walking a tightrope between the Union and the Confederacy. In addition to being physically located between the two sides, Maryland depended equally on the North and the South for its economy. Although Maryland had always leaned toward the south culturally, sympathies in the state were as much pro-Union as they were pro-Confederate. Reflecting that division and the feeling of many Marylanders that they just wanted to be left alone, the state government would not declare for either side.

Abraham Lincoln faced a series of crises within weeks of taking office in March 1861. When Virginia seceded from the Union on April 17, federal troops and supplies could reach Washington only through Maryland. For the Federal Government there was no question about which side Maryland had to take. If it seceded Washington D.C. would be surrounded by hostile states, effectively cut off from the rest of the Union. The situation came to a head on April 19, 1861, when the soldiers of the 6th Massachusetts Volunteers, moving through Baltimore on the way to Washington, were attacked by a pro-Southern mob. When the mob started shooting at the regiment, the soldiers returned fire, and when the smoke had cleared, four soldiers and twelve civilians had been killed.

Maryland’s governor authorized the destruction of bridges connecting Baltimore to the Northern states and called a special session of the Maryland Legislature. Lincoln responded by authorizing Winfield Scott, commanding general of the Union Army, to suspend habeas corpus “in the extreme necessity” to protect troop movements between Philadelphia and Washington.

To avoid further riots, it was decided to send troops through the Naval Academy at Annapolis. To ensure the safety of the troops and the loyalty of the state government, the Federal Government sent General Benjamin F. Butler to Annapolis to secure the city on April 22. That same day, Governor Thomas Holliday Hicks decided to call a special session of the General Assembly to discuss the crisis. At that time, the General Assembly met biannually, but popular outcry was so strong that the governor felt it necessary to call together the Assembly during an off year. However, he probably felt that anti-Union sentiment would run high in a city that had just been occupied by Northern troops, so Governor Hicks decided to convene the Legislature in Frederick, Maryland, a strongly pro-Union city.

The General Assembly first met in the Frederick County Courthouse on April 26. However, it was quickly found that the courthouse was too small, and so, on the second day, the Assembly moved to Kemp Hall the meeting hall belonging to the German Reformed Church in Frederick. On April 30, the weekly Frederick Herald reported: “The Legislature seems comfortable and well provided for in their new halls in the German Reformed Building. The Senate occupies the Red Men’s Hall, third story — the House, the hall in the second story. These halls have been tastefully and appropriately fitted up for their purposes.”

The main topic of discussion in those tastefully appointed halls was, of course, the question of whether or not to secede from the Union. As the General Assembly met throughout the long summer, a bill and a resolution were introduced calling for secession. Both failed because the legislators said that they did not have the authority to secede from the Union. Even many of the pro-Southern delegates and senators did not support the bills. At the same time, however, the legislators refused to reopen rail links to the Northern States; for fear that they would be used for military purposes and also by pro-Union agitators bent on revenge for the Baltimore riots. One of the few things the General Assembly did agree upon was a resolution sent to President Lincoln protesting the Union occupation of Maryland. It seems that the General Assembly was primarily interested in preserving Maryland’s neutrality, for they neither wanted to secede from the Union, nor to allow Union troops to cross its territory in order to attack the Confederacy.

On August 7, the General Assembly adjourned, intending to meet again on September 17. However, on that day Federal troops and Baltimore police officers arrived in Frederick with orders to arrest the pro-Confederate members of the General Assembly. Thus, the special session in Frederick ended, as did Frederick’s summer as the state capital, as Maryland found itself inexorably drawn further and further into the heart of the bloodiest war in American history. Andrew Kessler, Jr. was one of the arrested legislators. There were some accounts that Andrew was imprisoned at Fort McHenry, Maryland during his period of incarceration. He was held with the other legislators until they pledged loyalty to the United States Government, and they were then released and returned home.

OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS DURING THE CIVIL WAR

One of Andrew’s brothers, Absalom (1818-1898) was very active during the pre-Civil War and Civil War period, serving as Orphans Court Judge from 1859 to 1863, Register of Wills from 1863 to 1867, and Jefferson Post-Master starting in 1866. Based on records found during a visit to the Frederick County Courthouse in the 1980s, Absalom during the Civil War agreed to free his slaves, contingent on their enlisting and serving in the Union Army. This put him in direct opposition to his brother Andrew Jr. who, as noted above was a Southern sympathizer.

Lloyd Alexander Kessler (1814-1902), son of Jacob and Rachel Kessler and grandson of Andreas apparently owned and operated a show store in Frederick at the outbreak of the Civil War. The store was first robbed by the Union Army 11^th Corps. It was again robbed and destroyed in July 1864 by the Confederate Army commanded by Jubal Early which passed through Frederick a few days prior to the Battle of Monocacy Junction. According to one family account, “They destroyed and carried away everything that they could.” Family folklore has it that only two cherry drop-leaf tables were salvaged (those tables were in possession of Webb family members in Wilmington, Delaware as of 1987). According to relatives, “The loss resulting from Early’s raid was complete and financially ruinous. Claim for reimbursement from the government was made by Lloyd Kessler to the Congressional Court of Claims on August 30, 1888, and was pursued unsuccessfully by various family members for years thereafter.”

U.S. Census Data

1820: Election District 3, Frederick County, Md. (p. 14/14) Andrew Kesler, 1 male under 10, 1 male 10-15, 2 males 16-25, 1 male 45+, 1 female under 10, 1 female 10-15, 1 female 26-44, 3 slaves. Note: Hard to locate the 1820 Census record. When Census digitized, they listed his name as Ambrud Kuter (can you believe it – government employees!!!!), but the handwriting is crystal clear and says Andrew Kesler.
1830: Election District 1, Frederick County, Md. (p. 29/30) Andrew Kisler, 2 males 10-15, 2 males 20-29, 1 male 60-69, 1 female under 5, 1 female 5-9, 1 female 15-19, 1 female 40-49, 3 slaves.
1840: Andrew Kesler – Age 20-30, 2 females age <5, 20-30 & 80-90. Neighbor to brother Israel Kessler
1850: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (16/24 7 Aug) Andrew Kessler 32 (farmer), Lauretta S. 34, Isabella 12, Amelia 8, Edwin M. 5, Thomas A. 2
1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, )13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edmin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (17/33 15 Jul) Andrew Kessler 63 (farmer), Lauretta 63, Thomas 30, John 24, William 21, William Figgins 44, Isabel Figgins 40, Jemima Celice 59, Charles Davis 20, Cora Speaks 6

Andrew and Loretta’s children

1.3.1.6 Andrew Kessler Jr. (b: 3 Jul 1817-d: 7 Nov 1896 Frederick, Maryland)
1.3.1.6a Loretta ‘Laura’ Smith Lamar 9 May 1837 (b: 20 May 1816-d: 2 Dec 1895)

- 1.3.1.6.1 Isabella T. Kessler Figgins (no children b: 12 May 1838 Jefferson, Md-d: 31 Dec 1920 Doubs, Frederick Cty, Md.)
- 1.3.1.6.2 Mary Aurelia ‘Laura’ Kessler Specht (b: 27 May 1842, Jefferson, Md-d: 23 Jul 1908)
- 1.3.1.6.3 Edwin M. Kessler (b: Jan 1845, Jefferson Township, Md-d: 1909 Jefferson, Md)
- 1.3.1.6.4 Thomas Andrew Kessler (no children b: 2 Oct 1849 Jefferson Township, Md-d: 2 Mar 1906)
- 1.3.1.6.5 Virginia Eugenia Ellen Kessler Walter (b: 1851, Jefferson Township, Md-d: 18 Jan 1943 Catonsville, Md.)
- 1.3.1.6.6 John Franklin Kessler (never married b: 29 Sep 1855, Jefferson, Md-d: 26 Dec 1892)
- 1.3.1.6.7 William Andrew Kessler (b: 29 May 1869, Jefferson Township, Md- 19 Jun 1925)

1.3.1.6.1 Isabella T. Kessler Figgins (12 May 1838-31 Dec 1920) was born and died in Frederick County. She married William Figgins (10 May 1834-21 Oct 1908), a farmer. Isabella’s younger brother 1.3.1.6.3 Edwin married one of William Figgins’ cousins, Albina.

The two did not have children. However, when the family finances fell apart in 1896 after Andrew Jr.’s death, as noted earlier, Isabella and William let Andrew Jr.’s youngest son, William Kessler, and his family live with them until they were able to make their own way. My grandfather was one of William Kessler’s sons.

- 1840: Andrew Kesler – Age 20-30, 2 females age <5, 20-30 & 80-90. Neighbor to brother Israel Kessler
- 1850: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (16/24 7 Aug) Andrew Kessler 32 (farmer), Lauretta S. 34, Isabella 12, Amelia 8, Edwin M. 5, Thomas A. 2
- 1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
- 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, (13/38 29 Jul) William Figgins 35 (farmer), Isabella 31, Ann Whalen 18 (domestic servant), James Rollins 20 (farm laborer)
- 1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (17/33 15 Jul) Andrew Kessler 63 (farmer), Lauretta 63, Thomas 30, John 24, William 21, William Figgins 44, Isabel Figgins 40, Jemima Celice 59, Charles Davis 20, Cora Speaks 6
- 1900: District 0026 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (18/30 Jun 16) William A. Figgins 65 (May 1835 farmer), Isabella 62 (Mar 1838), William A. Kessler 41 (brother-in-law May 1859), Alberta G. 23 (Oct 1876), Blanche M. 6 (Nov 1893), Edgar F. 3 (Feb 1897), Nellie V. 2 (Mar 1898), Clara E. 1 (Apr 1899)
- 1910: District 0047 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (24/32 April 23) Charles F. M. Walker 57 (railroad carpenter), Eugenia E. 56 (sister of Isabella), Isabella 72
- 1920: District 0054 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (11/24 Mar 3) C. F. M. Walker 69 (railroad carpenter), Eugenia E. 68, Isabella 81

1.3.1.6.2 Mary Aurelia ‘Laura’ Kessler Specht (27 May 1842-23 Jul 1908) married David Specht (30 Oct 1833-2 Mar 1923) sometime before 1870 – Mary is listed with David in the 1870 U.S. Census as “Rely” (short for Aurelia). They had six children, all of whom remained Marylanders throughout their lives.

- 1850: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (16/24 7 Aug) Andrew Kessler 32 (farmer), Lauretta S. 34, Isabella 12, Amelia 8, Edwin M. 5, Thomas A. 2
- 1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
- 1870: District 1, Frederick County, Md. (18/61 Jun 14) Michael E. Specht 39 (farmer), Elizabeth 32, Betty 5, Virginia 3, George J. 1, David L. 33 (farm laborer), Rely 26
- 1880: District 078 Urbana, Frederick County, Md. (4/56 Jun 3) David Specht 46 (farmer), Uralia 37, Cavey M 8, Mary W. 4, Robert T. 2, Joseph 17 (nephew – works on farm)
- 1900: District 0082 Election District 03, Howard County, Md. (1/30 Jun 1) David Specht 66 (farmer Oct 1833), Mary 58 (May 1842), Mary 28 (Aug 1876), Robert T. 22 (1877), Arthur J. 18 (Aug 1881), Edna W. 12 (Dec 1887), Lena I. 12 (1887)
- 1910: District 0052 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (13/29 Apr 30) David Specht 76 (farmer), Arthur J. 27, Edna 22, Lena I. 22
- 1920: District 0060 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (11/13 Jan 20) Joseph Mullinix 39 (farmer), Mary A. 42, Bessie 16, Mildred 14, Mary 13, Carroll 13, Thomas 9, David Specht 87 (father-in-law)

1.3.1.6.2.1 Carrie May Specht Oland (8 Nov 1872-26 Dec 1961) married Jacob Luther Oland (24 Oct 1858-29 Feb 1920) on 9 Sep 1897. They had eight children: Frederick David Oland (27 Oct 1898-29 Sep 1988), Carlton Edward Oland (10 Dec 1899-14 May 1970), Anna May Oland (23 Apr 1901-25 Nov 1901), Theodore Parker Oland (6 Aug 1904-30 Oct 1989), Ida Etta Virginia Oland (30 Nov 1906-24 Jun 1942), Margaret Marie Oland Howes (3 Mar 1909-27 Jul 2002), and Charles Specht Oland (14 Jan 1912-14 Jan 1994).

- - 1880: District 078 Urbana, Frederick County, Md. (4/56 Jun 3) David Specht 46 (farmer), Uralia 37, Cavey M 8, Mary W. 4, Robert T. 2, Joseph 17 (nephew – works on farm)
  - 1900: District 0042 Laytonsville, Montgomery County, Md. (12/41 Jun 8) Jacob L. Oland 38 (farmer Oct 1861), Carrie L. 27 (Nov 1872), Frederick D. 1 (Oct 1898), Carlton 5/12 (Dec 1899)
  - 1910: District 0101 Laytonsville, Montgomery County, Md. (30/38 May 6) Jacob L. Oland 51 (farmer), Carrie L. 37, Frederick D. 12, Carlton E. 10, Paul J. 9, Parker 6, Ida V. 4, Margaret M. 1 1/12
  - 1920: District 0118 Laytonsville, Montgomery County, Md. (6/24 Jan 6) Jacob L. Oland 61 (farmer), Carrie M. 47, Frederick D. 21, Carlton E. 20, Paul J. 17, Theodore Parker 14, Ida E. 12, Margaret M. 9, Charles S. 7
  - 1930: District 0002 Laytonsville, Montgomery County, Md. (16/31 Apr 15) Carrie M. Oland 57, Paul J. 27, Virginia 23, Margaret M. 21, Charles Specht 18
  - 1940: District 16-2 Montgomery County, Md. (21/44 Apr 2) Carrie M. Oland 67, Virginia 30

1.3.1.6.2.2 Mary Aurelia Specht Millinix (1876-1960) married Joseph Alexander Mullinix (17 Feb 1879-7 Jul 1963 Glenelg, Maryland), a farmer, and they had five children: Bessie M. Mullinix Sullivan (19 Feb 1903-28 Mar 1987 Howard County, Md), Mildred Lee Mullinix Britton (9 Nov 1905-15 Aug 1985 Carroll County, Md), Mary Aurelia Mullinix Brown (3 Nov 1906-11 Jan 1991), Charles Carroll Mullinix (3 Nov 1906-29 Oct 1968 Howard County, Md), and Thomas Henry Mullinix (1 Apr 1910-Aug 1978 Baltimore, Md).

- - 1880: District 078 Urbana, Frederick County, Md. (4/56 Jun 3) David Specht 46 (farmer), Uralia 37, Cavey M 8, Mary W. 4, Robert T. 2, Joseph 17 (nephew – works on farm)
  - 1900: District 0082 Election District 03, Howard County, Md. (1/30 Jun 1) David Specht 66 (farmer Oct 1833), Mary 58 (May 1842), Mary 28 (Aug 1876), Robert T. 22 (1877), Arthur J. 18 (Aug 1881), Edna W. 12 (Dec 1887), Lena I. 12 (1887)
  - 1910: District 0016 Election District 4, Baltimore, Md. (45/50 May 12) Joseph Mullinix 30 (farmer), Mary A. 32, Bessie M. 6, Mildred 4, Mary 3, Charles C 3, Thomas 7/12
  - 1920: District 0060 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (11/13 Jan 20) Joseph Mullinix 39 (farmer), Mary A. 42, Bessie 16, Mildred 14, Mary 13, Carroll 13, Thomas 9, David Specht 87 (father-in-law)
  - 1930: District 0008 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (4/37 Apr 28) Joseph Mullinix 50 (farmer), Mary A. 52, Thomas H. 20, Mildred L. Britton 24 (daughter), Albert Britton 24 (son-in-law)
  - 1940: District 14-11, Howard County, Md. (15/30 Apr 24) Joseph Mullinix 61 (farmer), Mary A. 62

1.3.1.6.2.3 Robert Kessler Specht (22 Oct 1878-7 Feb 1958 Annapolis, Md.) married Bessie L. Brengle Specht (15 May 1881-15 Jun 1966 Arnold, Md.). Robert and Bessie had six children: Vergie J. Specht Ruppert (20 Mar 1907-12 Oct 2000), Grace Rebecca Specht Nichols (22 Apr 1909-17 Apr 2006), Ruth S. Specht Fairall (28 Jan 1911-Aug 1987), Carroll Robert Specht (21 Mar 1913-17 Dec 1992), Earl Edwin Specht (11 Jun 1915-27 May 1983), and Helen Specht (1918-?).

- - 1880: District 078 Urbana, Frederick County, Md. (4/56 Jun 3) David Specht 46 (farmer), Uralia 37, Cavey M 8, Mary W. 4, Robert T. 2, Joseph 17 (nephew – works on farm)
  - 1900: District 0082 Election District 03, Howard County, Md. (1/30 Jun 1) David Specht 66 (farmer Oct 1833), Mary 58 (May 1842), Mary 28 (Aug 1876), Robert T. 22 (1877), Arthur J. 18 (Aug 1881), Edna W. 12 (Dec 1887), Lena I. 12 (1887)
  - 1910: District 0053 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (1/15 Apr 15) Robert K. Specht 32 (farmer), Bessie 28, Virgie 3, Grace 11/12
  - 1920: District 0060 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (5/13 Jan 9) Robert K. Specht 41 (farmer), Bessie 38, Vergie J. 13, Grace R. 11, Ruth S. 9, Carroll 6, Earl E. 4, Helen 2
  - 1930: District 0004 Ellicott City, Howard County, Md. (23/24 Apr 16) Robert K. Specht 50 (farmer), Bessie L. 48, Carroll R. 16, Earl E. 14, Helen 12
  - 1940: District 2-16B Anne Arundel County, Md. (16/32 May 2) Robert K. Specht 61 (farmer), Bessie L. 58, Ruth S. 28, Earl E. 24, Helen P. 22 (Next door:
    Robert C. Specht 27 (laborer), Ida P. 25, Robert C. 7)

1.3.1.6.2.4 Arthur Jacob Specht (1881-1931) married Maud Mayfield Amoss (29 Mar 1895-1 Sep 1979). They had two children: Mazel Mae Specth Parks (21 Jan 1917-12 Jun 2008) and Margaret Lorraine Specht Moore (18 Nov 1928-30 May 2003). There is an Arthur J. Specht listed as a U.S. Marine and stationed at Parris Island, SC in 1931, the same year that Arthur died. It is not known if there is a relationship between his military service and his death.

- - 1900: District 0082 Election District 03, Howard County, Md. (1/30 Jun 1) David Specht 66 (farmer Oct 1833), Mary 58 (May 1842), Mary 28 (Aug 1876), Robert T. 22 (1877), Arthur J. 18 (Aug 1881), Edna W. 12 (Dec 1887), Lena I. 12 (1887)
  - 1910: District 0052 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (13/29 Apr 30) David Specht 76 (farmer), Arthur J. 27, Edna 22, Lena I. 22
  - 1920: District 0059 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (17/25 Jan 9) Arthur J. Specht 38 (farmer), Maud M. 24, Hazel 2 11/12
  - 1930: Name: Arthur J Specht Muster Date: Jan 1931 Rank: Private Station: ”D” Company, Recruit Battalion, Recruit Depot, Mb, Parris Island, S C

1.3.1.6.2.5 Edna Eugenia ‘Elinor’ Specht Rugemer (21 Dec 1888-1982) married Raymond John Rugemer (29 Sep 1890-23 Nov 1975). She and her sister 1.3.1.6.2.6 Lena were twins. Edna and Raymond had three children: Lena Elaine Rugemer Arbutis (2 Sep 1923-16 Aug 2000), Edna Lucille Rugemer Seeley (18 Oct 1924-26 Mar 1952), and Mary Dolores Rugemer Shepley (19 Jul 1929-20 Nov 2000).

- - 1900: District 0082 Election District 03, Howard County, Md. (1/30 Jun 1) David Specht 66 (farmer Oct 1833), Mary 58 (May 1842), Mary 28 (Aug 1876), Robert T. 22 (1877), Arthur J. 18 (Aug 1881), Edna W. 12 (Dec 1887), Lena I. 12 (1887)
  - 1910: District 0052 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (13/29 Apr 30) David Specht 76 (farmer), Arthur J. 27, Edna 22, Lena I. 22
  - 1920: Spring Grove State Hospital District 0006 Catonsville, Baltimore, Md. 1/19 Jan 2) Edna Specht 31 (attendant)
  - 1930: District 0054, Election District 12, Baltimore, Md. (47/58 Apr 26) Raymond Rugemer 39 (R.R. boilermaker), Edna E. 39, Elaine 7, Lucille 6, Dolores 9/12
  - 1940: Not found.

1.3.1.6.2.6 Lena I. Specht Brown (21 Dec 1888-1966) married Warren Custer Brown (11 Feb 1890-8 Sep 1964). They lived in Howard County, Maryland and had one daughter: Ruth Edna Brown Arrington (28 May 1918- Nov 1939).

- - 1900: District 0082 Election District 03, Howard County, Md. (1/30 Jun 1) David Specht 66 (farmer Oct 1833), Mary 58 (May 1842), Mary 28 (Aug 1876), Robert T. 22 (1877), Arthur J. 18 (Aug 1881), Edna W. 12 (Dec 1887), Lena I. 12 (1887)
  - 1910: District 0052 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (13/29 Apr 30) David Specht 76 (farmer), Arthur J. 27, Edna 22, Lena I. 22
  - 1920: District 0005 Catonsville, Baltimore, Md. (23/40 Feb 7) Custer W. Brown 30 (auto garage), Lenia E. Brown 28, Ruth E. 1 7/12
  - 1930: District 0008 West Friendship, Howard County, Md. (7/37 Apr 8) Warren B. Brown 40 (auto mechanic), Lena A. 41, Ruth E. 12
  - 1940: District 14-7 Howard County, Md. (7/52 Apr 4) Warren C. Brown 50 (auto mechanic), Lena A. 50, Robert Arrington, Jr. 22 (son-in-law)

1.3.1.6.3 Edwin M. Kessler (Jan 1845-1909) married Albina Ann Figgins (Apr 1842-15 Jun 1925) on 26 Feb 1874 in Loudoun County, Virginia. Albina was likely a cousin of William Figgins, husband of Edwin’s older sister, 1.3.1.6.1 Isabella.

Edwin (sometimes referred to as Edward) was Andrew Jr’s oldest son and is likely the one responsible for mishandling family finances during Andrew Jr’s final years. There is a newspaper article dated 1897 that lists Edwin and his wife in the sale of Andrew Jr’s farm located northwest of Jefferson. After sending the family into bankruptcy, Edwin held a number of positions including constable and letter carrier, before dying in 1909.

- 1850: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (16/24 7 Aug) Andrew Kessler 32 (farmer), Lauretta S. 34, Isabella 12, Amelia 8, Edwin M. 5, Thomas A. 2
- 1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
- 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, (13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edwin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
- 1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (22/33 15 Jul) Edward Kessler 35 (farmer), Albina 37, Nettie 13, Lavia 12, Elizabeth Figgins 66 (mother-in-law)
- 1900: District 0026 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (3/30 Jun 2) Edward M. Kessler 55 (Jan 1945, day laborer), Albinah A. 58 (Apr 1842)
- 1910: District 0071 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (5/29 Apr 20) Albinah A. Kessler 67, Roland L. Shaff 10 (grandson)
- 1920: District 0081 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (6/28 Jan 6) McKendree Etchinson 55 (undertaker), Anna J. 53, Julia E. 22, Arthur H. 20, Mary C. 18, Eugene F. Wiles 4 11/12 (ward), Albina A. Kessler 77 (mother-in-law)

Edwin and Ann had two daughters:

1.3.1.6.2.1 Anna Jeanette ‘Nettie’ Kessler Etchinson (23 Jun 1866-4 May 1962) married McKendree Riley Etchinson (15 Sep 1864-3 May 1952) on 17 Feb 1891 in a double-wedding with her sister Lavvie. She and McK had five children: Page M. Etchinson (15 Nov 1892-2 Jun 1952), Julia Elizabeth Etchinson Hanna (25 Feb 1897-27 Oct 1994), Arthur Hart Etchinson (4 Apr 1899-10 Jun 1982), Mary C. Etchinson McDonald (22 Mar 1901-3 Mar 1978), and Gene Wiles Etchinson (2 Jan 1915-20 Nov 1972). Gene was adopted.

- - 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, (13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edwin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
  - 1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (22/33 15 Jul) Edward Kessler 35 (farmer), Albina 37, Nettie 13, Lavia 12, Elizabeth Figgins 66 (mother-in-law)
  - 1900: District 0026 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (1/30 Jun 1) McKendree R. Etchinson 35 (Sep 1864 undertaker), Janet 33 (Jul 1866), Page M. 7 (Nov 1892), Julia E. 3 (Feb 1897), Arthur H. 1 (Apr 1899)
  - 1910: District 0071 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (3/29 Apr 9) McKendree R. Etchinson 45 (undertaker), Janet 43, Page M. 17, Julia E. 13, Arthur H. 11, Mary C. 9
  - 1920: District 0081 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (6/28 Jan 6) McKendree Etchinson 55 (undertaker), Anna J. 53, Julia E. 22, Arthur H. 20, Mary C. 18, Eugene F. Wiles 4 11/12 (ward), Albina A. Kessler 77 (mother-in-law)
  - 1930: 303 W College Terrace District 0011 Frederick, Frederick County, Md. (6/48 Apr 4) M. Riley Etchinson 65 (undertaker), Anna J. 63, Julia E. 31 (teacher-high school), Gene 15 (Eugene F. Wiles-ward), Robert M. Unger 23 (high school teacher)
  - 1940: 303 W College Terrace District 11-12 Frederick, Frederick County, Md. (7/24 Apr 18) M. Riley Etchinson 75, Anna J. 73, Julia E. 42 (English teacher-high school), Gene 15 (Eugene F. Wiles-ward), Robert M. Unger 23 (high school teacher)

1.3.1.6.2.2 Lavenia Isabella ‘Lavvie’ Shaff (20 Aug 1867 Virginia-18 Apr 1906 Maryland) married Charles Kurtz Shaff (14 Mar 1866-31 Aug 1934) on 17 Feb 1891. They had four children: Lee Lamar Shaff (3 Feb 1892-20 Mar 1892), Harry Melvin Shaff (21 Jan 1894-15 Oct 1919), Roland Luther Shaff (2 Oct 1898-30 May 1931), and Mabel Fay Shaff (1 Sep 1900-27 May 1924).

This was a tragic union. Lavenia died at age 39, leaving three children behind. She and Charles had lost their first child after only six weeks, in 1892. Of the remaining three children, Harry Shaff died unmarried at age 25, Roland died unmarried at age 31, and daughter Mabel, also unmarried, died at age 23. Lavenia’s husband, Charles survived until age 68, but his life likely was a tormented one, given his many loses.

Note: My grandfather, Edgar Franklin Kessler Sr. was born in 1897, and was very close in age to Lavenia and Charles’ children, Harry (b. 1894) and Roland (b. 1898). They likely went to school and played together in Jefferson. Charles and his sons are listed in the U.S. census’ as painters, which was the life-long occupation of my grandfather. I wonder if my grandfather was encouraged to be a painter because of his interactions with the Shaff family. There is no way to know, but the coincidence of the ages and occupations certainly suggest that there was a close connection.

- - 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, (13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edwin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
  - 1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (22/33 15 Jul) Edward Kessler 35 (farmer), Albina 37, Nettie 13, Lavia 12, Elizabeth Figgins 66 (mother-in-law)
  - 1900: District 0026 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (5/30 Jun 4) Charles K. Shaff 34 (Jan 1866), Lavie I. 32 (Aug 1867), Melvin 6 (Jun 1894), Roland L. 1 (Oct 1898)

1.3.1.6.4 Thomas Andrew Kessler (2 Oct 1849-2 Mar 1906) was still living at home in 1880. In 1886 he was appointed constable of Frederick County District 15. He married Elizabeth C. ‘Lizzie’ Whalen Kessler (Nov 1853-2 Jul 1928) in 1890. They resided at 113 East Patrick Street in Frederick and had no children. He died of “consumption” (tuberculosis) at the age of 56.

- 1850: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (16/24 7 Aug) Andrew Kessler 32 (farmer), Lauretta S. 34, Isabella 12, Amelia 8, Edwin M. 5, Thomas A. 2
- 1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
- 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, )13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edmin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
- 1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (17/33 15 Jul) Andrew Kessler 63 (farmer), Lauretta 63, Thomas 30, John 24, William 21, William Figgins 44, Isabel Figgins 40, Jemima Celice 59, Charles Davis 20, Cora Speaks 6
- 1900: 123 E. Patrick Street District 0007 Frederick, Frederick County, Md. (37/44 Jun 15) Mary E. Whalen 43 (Feb 1857), Ellen A. 52 (sister Dec 1847), Hannah N. 33 (sister Mar 1867) …. Thomas Kessler 49 (Dec 1849), Lizzie C. 46 (Nov 1853), Joseph Jones 13 (black, servant) Note: There were three Whalen sisters, close in age. Mary E. was born in 1856, Lizzie in 1858, and Hannah N. in 1862.
- 1910: 301 E. Patrick Street District 0052 Frederick, Frederick County, Md. (18/23 Apr 25) Mary Hobbs Whalen 40, Elizabeth C. Kessler 38 (sister-dressmaker), Hanna N. Whalen 36 (sister) Note: Ages are too young compared to 1910 Census, but these are the right people. Not sure how this happened.
- 1920: Montevue Asylum, District 0056 Frederick, Md. (8/32 Jan 20) Lizzie Whalen 68 (inmate)

1.3.1.6.5 Virginia Eugenia Ellen Kessler Walter (Feb 1851-18 Jan 1943) married Charles Fenton Mercer Walter (Jun 1850-9 Feb 1923). They had seven children: Mable L. Walter Allnutt (15 Oct 1871-9 Aug 1937), Helen V. ‘Nellie’ Walter Bruchey (23 Sep 1873-24 Jan 1939), Albert William Walter (13 Nov 1875-15 Oct 1955), Charles Andrew Walter (1 Aug 1878-22 Dec 1972), Laura Lucinda Walter Hobbs (May 1883-15 Feb 1982), Mary Edith Walter Smith (8 Dec 1888-18 Sep 1952), and Pearl B. E. Walter (25 Sep 1890-15 Nov 1890). Most of the family lived in the Catonsville area of Baltimore County.

- 1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
- 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, )13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edmin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
- 1880: District 066 Flag Pond Village, Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (8/26 Jun 4) Charles F. Walter 30 (carpenter), Eugenia 29, Mabel L. 8, Helen V. 6, Albert W. 4, Charles A. 1
- 1900: District 0002 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (8/32 Jun 6) Charles F. Walter 50 (carpenter Jun 1850), Eugenia 49 (Feb 1851), Charles A. 21 (Aug 1878), Laura L. 17 (May 1883), Mary E. 10 (Dec 1889)
- 1910: District 0047 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (24/32 April 23) Charles F. M. Walker 57 (railroad carpenter), Eugenia E. 56, Isabella 72
- 1920: District 0054 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (11/24 Mar 3) C. F. M. Walker 69 (railroad carpenter), Eugenia E. 68, Isabella 81
- 1930: District 0003 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (12/28 Apr 11) Eugenia E. Walter 79
- 1940: District 11-2 Adamstown, Frederick County, Md. (9/38 Apr 16) Charles A. Walter 61 (retired farmer), Nellie 61, Charles C. 19, Eugenia E. 89, Myrtle J. Stoneburner 60 (sister-in-law)

1.3.1.6.6 John Franklin Kessler (29 Sep 1855-26 Dec 1892) never married. He died at age 32. His obituary was published in the Frederick News on 18 Jan 1893:

A correspondent at Jefferson sends the following: Our community is frequently visited by the reaper Death, who has again thrust his sickle and garnered from among us one from whom all were loath to part. John F. Kessler, son of Andrew and Lauretta Kessler, departed this life, after a brief illness of pneumonia, on December 26, 1892, aged 37 years, 2 months, and 28 days. A young man of sterling worth, industry, and devout Christian character, this community has lost one of its most exemplary members. The funeral services were conducted by the junior pastor, Rov. Barnes, who spoke words of consolation from Prov. 14-32 to a large concourse of relatives and friends. Upon the hearts of those who mourn the loss of son, brother, and friend falls the consolation that “the righteous hath hope in hia death.”

- 1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
- 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, )13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edmin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
- 1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (17/33 15 Jul) Andrew Kessler 63 (farmer), Lauretta 63, Thomas 30, John 24, William 21, William Figgins 44, Isabel Figgins 40, Jemima Celice 59, Charles Davis 20, Cora Speaks 6
- 1.3.1.6.7 William Andrew Kessler (29 May 1869-19 Jun 1925) married Alberta Gertrude Castle (16 Oct 1875-1 Jan 1934) likely in 1893. They had eight children. As Andrew Jr’s youngest child, William was “caught up” in the financial scandal that rocked the family after Andrew Jr’s death in 1896. William and Alberta moved in with William’s oldest sister Isabella and her husband, William Figgins and helped them operate their farm.
- 1860: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 20 Jul) Andrew Kessler 42 (farmer), Laura 44, Isabella 22, Laura 18, Edwin 15, Thomas 11, Ugenia 9, Franklin 5, William 1, Darnell William 23 (laborer)
- 1870: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md, )13/38 29 Jul) Andrew Kessler 53 (farmer), Loretta S. 54, Edmin M. 25, Thomas A. 21, Virginia E. 18, John F. 15, William A. 11, Emma Lighter 19, Jacob Martial 64 (plus four blacks – Mima 45, Joanna 18, Mountjoy 15, & Charles 13
- 1880: Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (17/33 15 Jul) Andrew Kessler 63 (farmer), Lauretta 63, Thomas 30, John 24, William 21, William Figgins 44, Isabel Figgins 40, Jemima Celice 59, Charles Davis 20, Cora Speaks 6
- 1900: District 0026 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (18/30 Jun 16) William A. Figgins 65 (May 1835 farmer), Isabella 62 (Mar 1838), William A. Kessler 41 (brother-in-law May 1859), Alberta G. 23 (Oct 1876), Blanche M. 6 (Nov 1893), Edgar F. 3 (Feb 1897), Nellie V. 2 (Mar 1898), Clara E. 1 (Apr 1899)
- 1910: District 0047 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (21/32 April 21) William A. Kessler 45 (laborer-odd jobs), Alberta G. 33, Blanche M. 16, Edgar F. 13, Nellie V. 12, Charles L. 9, Mabel L. 7, Anna L. 6, Paul 5/12
- 1920: District 0054 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (11/24 Mar 3) William A. Kessler 60 (painting), Alberta G. 43, Edgar F. 23 (painting), Charles L. 19, Mabel L. 16, Anna L. 15, Paul 10, William 6

1.3.1.6.7.1 Blanche Mae Kessler Shaeffer (21 Nov 1893-30 Aug 1969) married Wesley Franklin Shaeffer (5 Sep 1893-7 Feb 1963) and they had 11 children: Ridgely Sylvester Shaeffer (23 Jan 1916-28 Jul 1917), Mary E. Schaeffer (3 Dec 1916-7 Feb 2008), Howard Franklin Schaeffer (12 Jan 1919-2 Oct 2002), Richard Levere Schaeffer (9 Jun 1921-19 Jun 1972), Helen Irene Schaeffer Renner (2 Feb 1923-8 Feb 2003), Clyde Irving Schaeffer (26 Feb 1924-22 Jun 1981), Wesley Francis Schaeffer (9 Aug 1925-10 Dec 1974), John Hamilton Schaeffer (23 Feb 1928-10 Apr 1987), Thomas Lee Schaeffer (14 Mar 1932-29 Mar 2009), Margaret J. Schaeffer White (16 Feb 1936-4 Apr 1995), Alleine Grace Schaeffer Schultz Wildoner Mills (8 Aug 1936-18 Jul 1997).

1900: District 0026 Jefferson, Frederick County, Md. (18/30 Jun 16) William A. Figgins 65 (May 1835 farmer), Isabella 62 (Mar 1838), William A. Kessler 41 (brother-in-law May 1859), Alberta G. 23 (Oct 1876), Blanche M. 6 (Nov 1893), Edgar F. 3 (Feb 1897), Nellie V. 2 (Mar 1898), Clara E. 1 (Apr 1899)

1910: District 0047 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (21/32 April 21) William A. Kessler 45 (laborer-odd jobs), Alberta G. 33, Blanche M. 16, Edgar F. 13, Nellie V. 12, Charles L. 9, Mabel L. 7, Anna L. 6, Paul 5/12

1920: District 0054 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (11/24 Mar 3) Wesley Shafer 26 (laborer at creamery), Blanche 26, Mary 3, Howard 11/12

1930: District 0003 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (6/28 Apr 8) Wesley Shafer 36 (salesman retail store), Blanche M. 36, Mary E. 13, Howard F. 11, Richard L. 9, Helen I. 7, Clyde I. 6, Frances S. 4 8/12, John H. 2 2/12, Paul K. 20 (brother-in-law)

1940: District 11-2 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 Apr 8) Wesley F. Shafer 46, Blanche M. 46, Howard F. 21, Clyde I. 16, Frances W. 14, John H. 12, Thomas L. 8, Margaret J. 6, Allene 3

1.3.1.6.7.2 Edgar Franklin Kessler Sr (5 Feb 1897-5 Dec 1962 Baltimore, Md) married Elizabeth Moore (9 Jan 1906-5 Dec 1962) when she was only 16 years old, in 1922. They had seven children: Clara Elizabeth Kessler DeWitt (b: 7 Aug 1923-d: 9 Nov 1978), Edgar Franklin Kessler Jr. (b: 3 Dec 1924-d: 14 Apr 1978), Margaret Gertrude Kessler Tracey (b: 5 Jul 1929-d: 22 Jun 1979), Helen Mae Kessler Seelhorst (b: 7 Aug 1923-d: 9 Nov 1978), Dorothy Marie Kessler Huth Whetzel (b: 7 Mar 1931-d: 4 Apr 2009), George Leroy ‘Bud’ Kessler (b: 13 Aug 1935-d: 17 Jul 1993), and Charles Lee Kessler (b: 21 Dec 1937-d: 15 Aug 1984. For more information about Edgar Sr., visit KesslerFamilyHistory.Wordpress.Com

1920: District 0054 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (11/24 Mar 3) William A. Kessler 60 (painting), Alberta G. 43, Edgar F. 23 (painting), Charles L. 19, Mabel L. 16, Anna L. 15, Paul 10, William 6

1930: 1824 W. Raynor Ave, District 0259, Baltimore City 251-500, Md. (14/38 Apr 8) Edgar Kessler 33 (painter), Elizabeth 24, Clara 7, Edgar Jr. 5, Margaret 3, Helen 8/12, Annie E. Steward 72 (grandmother)

1940: 829 W. Cross Street, District 4-650, Baltimore City, Md. (14/24 Apr ?) Edgar Kessler 40 (paperhanger), Elizabeth 32, Clara 17, Edgar Jr. 16, Margaret 13, Helen 10, Dorothy 9, George 4, Charles 2

1.3.1.6.7.3 Nellie V. Kessler Miss (b: Mar 1898 Jefferson, Md-d: 25 May 1967 Buckeystown, Md) married Earnest P. Miss ( (b: 13 Sep 1888 Buckeystown, Md-d:24 May 1966 Buckeystown, Md) and they had seven children: Richard Edward Miss (b: 13 Apr 1917-d: 8 Jan 1975), Ernest Martin Miss (b: 8 Sep 1918-d: 25 Jul 1974), Ira William Miss (b: 7 Sep 1920-d: 9 Aug 1983), Alice May Miss Jenkins (b: 2 Sep 1922-d: 22 Nov 1989), Charles Roy Miss (b: 24 Nov 1924-d: 23 Jun 1976), Albert Lee Miss (b: 21 Sep 1930-d: 22 Jul 1952 Korea), and Gail Virginia Miss Stockman (b: 2 Jun 1933-d: 8 Mar 2015 Frederick, Md). Albert was killed in action during the Korean War.

1920: Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (20/24 Mar 10) Earnest Miss 30 (laborer at lime kiln), Nellie 22, Richard 2 9/12, Earnest 1 9/12

1930: District 0002 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (4/15 Apr 14) Earnest P. Miss 40 (laborer at brickyard), Nellie 32, Richard 13, Earnest 11, Ira 9, May 7, Roy 5, Charles E. Hargett 1 8/12 (nephew)

1940: District 11-2 Buckeystown, Frederick County, Md. (19/38 Apr 8) Earnest P. Miss 53 (steam shovel fireman), Nellie 42, Richard 22, Ira W. 19, Alice May 17, Roy C. 15, Albert L. 9, Gail N. 6

1.3.1.6.7.4 Charles Lee ‘Charlie’ Kessler (b: 29 Nov 1900 Jefferson, Md-d:21 Jan 1949 Baltimore, Md) married Goldie Alice Harvey (b: 25 Nov 1903-d:31 Aug 1972) and they had six children: Irene Anna Kessler Dilworth (b: 22 Jan 1924-d: 12 Dec 1994), Doris Virginia Kessler Hill (b: 25 Apr 1926 Baltimore, Md-d: 30 Dec 2004), Charles Lindberg Kessler (b: 10 Jan 1928 Balto., Md.-15 Feb 2009), Gilbert Lee Kessler (b: Abt. 1930-d: ?), Gertrude Kessler Dorosz (b: Abt. 1931-d: ?), and Jeanne Alice Kessler Frazier (b: 13 Jun 1937 Balto., Md-d: 2 Mar 2001).

1930: 4527 Finley Avenue, District 0654, Baltimore City 501-673, Md. (26/55 Apr 9) Charles Kessler 28 (clerk, recruiting), Goldie 27, Irene 6, Doris 2 11/12, Charles L. 2 2/12, Gilbert 7/12, William 18 (brother)

1940: 4802 Walnut Avenue, District 4-772, Baltimore City, Md. (36/40 Apr 30) Charles Kessler 39 (office, U.S. Army recruiting), Goldie 37, Irene 16, Doris 14, Charles L. 12, Gilbert 10, Gertrude 9, Jean 2

1.3.1.6.7.5 Mabel Lauretta Kessler Diller (b: 20 Aug 1902 Jefferson, Md-d:18 Mar 1968 Md) married Charles Emory Diller (11 May 1892-20 Feb 1986) on May 9, 1923 in Feagaville, Frederick County. They had two children: Mary Lauretta Diller Cutsail (1926-2016) and Roland E. Diller (1929-2010). Mabel suffered from mental illness issues and was institutionalized in Springfield State Hospital in Carroll County in 1940. Her husband, Charles, served in the U.S Army during World War I, serving in 1918 and 1919. He was awarded the Order of St. Sava, awarded by Serbia for war contributions.

1930: District 0012, Clarksville, Howard County, Md. (16/22 Apr 23) Charles E. Diller 37 (farmer), Mabel L. 27. Mary L. 4, Roland E. 9/12

1940: Springfield State Hospital District 7-9, Other Places, Carroll County, Md. (16/22 Apr 23) Mabel Diller 37

1.3.1.6.7.6 Anna Laura ‘Annie’ Kessler Hargett Florey (b: 4 Apr 1904 Jefferson, Md-d:22 Nov 1947 Baltimore Md) was married twice, first to Earl Fenton Hargett (15 Jun 1896-30 Oct 1984) on 27 Jul 1920. Annie and Earl had five children before divorcing in 1930, although Earl disputed this number. In divorce papers that he filed on 20 Sep 1930, he claims to be the father of: Anna Elizabeth Hargett Hooper (21 Aug 1922-30 Nov 2016), Mary Catherine Hargett Main (4 Feb 1922-23 Jul 1995), and Irene Gertrude Hargett Leatherman (16 May 1925-25 Nov 2012).

Florey Burgess (31 Dec 1941-23 May 2015).

1930: District 0217, Baltimore City 1-250, Md. (4/39 Apr 5) Anna Hargett 25 (restaurant waitress) Note: Son Charles E. Hargett 1, living with Anna’s sister, Nellie Miss

1940: 733 N. Fulton Avenue District 4-499, Baltimore City, Md. (37/45 Apr 27) Lewis J. Florey 33 (stock yards), Annie L. 34, Charles E. Hargett 11, Lewis J. Florey Jr. 3, Herbert Florey 23 months

1.3.1.6.7.7 Paul Kenderson Kessler (b: 20 Nov 1909-d:16 May 1972 Baltimore, Md) married Estella Kessler (b: 1916 Md-d: 2008 Md) and they had three children: June E. Kessler Borger (b: 21 Feb 1936 Baltimore-d: Halifax, Pa.), James L. Kessler (b: 2 Feb 1937 Baltimore-d: 15 Jul 1986 W. Va.), and Donnell R. Kessler (b: Abt. 1939-d: ?). Paul lived in Baltimore and worked for and retired from the B&O Railroad.

1940: 66 King Avenue District 3-96, Baltimore City, Md. (8/24 Apr 5) Paul K. Kessler 30 (railroad carpenter), Estella 23, June E. 4, James L. 3, Donnell R. 7/12

1.3.1.6.7.8 William Lawrence Kessler (b: 15 Jan 1914 Jefferson, Md-d:23 Sep 1975 Frederick, Md) married Ethel Lewis (b: Abt. 1916-d: ?) and they had three children: William L. Kessler Jr. (b: 15 Sep 1931 Baltimore-d: Jan 1978 Baltimore),
Alberta Gertrude Kessler (b:18 Jul 1935 Baltimore-d: 2 May 1996 Baltimore) and Charles E. Kessler (b: Abt. 1937-d: ?). William served in the Army during World War II, enlisting on 27 Mar 1944 and serving until 6 Dec 1945.

1940: 814 Cedarcroft Road District 4-786, Baltimore City, Md. (14/40 Apr 5) William L. Kessler 26 (mechanic-furniture factory), Ethel 24, William L. Jr. 8, Alberta G. 4, Charles E. 3, William S. Lewis 48 (father-in-law), Mamie M. 42, William S. Jr. 19, Ida M. 18

Legal Filing – Sale of Properties after Andrew Jr. Death

Frederick Co, MD – Equity Court Abstracts

JLJ-6, 240-284 – KESSLER, FIGGINS, WHALEN, SPECHT, WALTERS, CASTLE, BRUBAKER, HINDS, etc – #FC – Jefferson

Central Bank of Frederick vs Edward M. KESSLER & Others
– Sale of Real Estate – Equity #6644 – Nov 1896

Andrew KESSLER d/ 7 Nov 1896, intestate
w/ Lauretta S.

s/ Edward M. KESSLER & w/ Albina FIGGINS
s/ Thomas A. KESSLER & w/ Elizabeth A. “Lizzie” WHALEN
d/ Isabella w/o William A. FIGGINS
d/ Mary Aurelia w/o David L. SPECHT – Howard County
d/ Eugenia Ellen w/o Charles F.M. WALTERS
s/ William A. KESSLER & w/ Alberta G. CASTLE

Adm/ William A. KESSLER

LAND:
A – parts of “Betsey’s Delight”, “Cut Knee”, “Fielderia Manor”, 141 acres, in Jefferson District, on road from Jefferson to Catoctin Switch.
Improved with a new 7-room frame house, log barn, corn house, grainery, carriage house, stone spring house.
Then occupied by Isaac BRUBAKER.

To Andrew KESSLER Jr. and Israel KESSLER from John SOUDER & w/ Mary M. of Loudoun Co, VA at $8,000 in Apr 1855 [ES-5, 560-561].
Previously to Anthony SOUDER from John NELSON, trustee in May 1826 [JS-25, 555]; then to John SOUDER in Aug 1830 [JS-34, 606-608].
EXCEPTION: 46 perches to trustees of the Union School of Middletown Valley in May 1831 [Deed 36, 470].

…also, “Fielderea”, Lot #29 of 35 acres, two miles south of Jefferson, near Jefferson to Point of Rocks Road; adjoins lands of M.F. CULLER
and J.W. Pearl. (except part to heirs of Abraham LAKIN). NOTE – Israel KESSLER & w/ Sarah conveyed their share to Andrew at $3,600 in Mar 1861 [BGF-7, 27].

B – 8 acres, adjoined other tracts; land started at corner of lands to Henry COCHRAN, Sebastian REMSBURG and Andrew KESSLER to centre
of Jefferson/Point of Rocks Road.
To Andrew KESSLER from Serena SIMMONS at $510 in May 1860 [BGF-6, 16].
SOLD to:
– Colored Methodist Episcopal Church trustees for cemetery for a half-acre at $50 in Apr 1881 [AF-3, 244].
Lying east of road from Jefferson to Point of Rocks, at corner of Columbus DADE’s and west to Daniel CULLER’s.
Trustees then were Fenton JACKSON, George NICHOLS, Dudley MORE, John PARKER, Jacob MACINNY, George JONES and Charles DAVIS.
– Dudley MOORE for a half-acre at $30 in May 1885 [AF-11, 182].
Located on road from Jefferson to Catoctin Switch of the B & O Railroad to south side of stream.

C – “Resurvey on Well’s Invention” and “Daughter’s Portion”, 278 acres, 1.5 miles west of Jefferson, on Jefferson to Burkittsville
road; adjoined Robert H. BOTELER’s part of the ‘Weaver Farm’, NW end of bridge and Joseph EASTERDAY’s land.
Improved with an 8-room, weatherboarded front and brick back house, stable, double corn house, wagon shed, grainery, carriage house,
covered hog house and spring house. Then occupied by Emanuel HINDS.

To Andrew KESSLER from William B. LAMAR and Albertis SPENCER, trustees (Equity #3181 – Thomas LAMAR), at $12,357 in Apr 1866 [JWLC-3, 691].
Previously to Thomas LAMAR from William Bishop LAMAR for 124.25 acres in Sep 1811; and from Jacob HOFF for 158 acres in Aug 1811.
SOLD to:
– Perry G. RICE for 23 acres at $1,157 in Apr 1866 [JWLC-3, 737].
– Joseph RODERICK for 61 acres at $2,785 in Apr 1866 [JWLC-4, 359].

D – Lot #8 of “Fielderea”, 10-acre wood lot; two miles south of Jefferson, on road from there to Adamstown; adjoined lands of M.F.
CULLER and Ezra M. THOMAS.

To Andrew KESSLER from James F. WOOD, Anthony A. HERST and Thomas C. YEARLEY, trustees*, at $109.75 in Sep 1880 [AF-2, 427].
(Allotted to Louisa Catharine, Duchess of Leeds, in division of estate of Charles CARROLL of Carrollton.)
*(Baltimore City Will of Louisa Catharine, Duchess of Leeds dated 19 Nov 1873; filed 12 Aug 1874; devised her estate to Rev. Dr. James
F. WOOD of Philadelphia, Roman Catholic Bishop, but now Archbishop, & others in trust)

Mortgages to:
– Susan THOMAS on the remaining 190 acres at $1,600 in Apr 1887; but assigned to John C. MOTTER, esquire. (C)
– Central National Bank at $490 & $160; sureties were Edward M. KESSLER and Thomas A. KESSLER.
– Charles W. ROSS at $1,000 in Aug 1889. (A&B)
– Charles W. ROSS at $1,000 in May 1893. (A, B&D)
– Noah E. CRAMER at $1,478 in Apr 1895 (A, B, C&D), however, he assigned it to A. Adelaid HORINE (w/o Ezra J. HORINE).

Trustees were Charles W. ROSS, John C. MOTTER and Richard P. ROSS.
SALE was held 13 Feb 1897 at the Court House door; high bidders were:
– Cephas E. LAKIN and Henry D. LAKIN for (A) 148 acres at $40/acre
– Edward M. KESSLER for (A&B) 17 acres at $6.35/acre; however, he resold it to Samuel M. KEFAUVER.
– Edward M. KESSLER for (C) 192 acres at $18/acre
– William E. CORUM for (D) Lot #8, 10 acres at $.25/acre (per previous agreement with decedent).
Total Sales, $9,511.79.

Edward KESSLER wasn’t able to comply with the sale of (C), so SALE was held 17 May 1897 to resell the 192 acres; high bidder was:
– W. Irving PARSONS at $10.55/acre, $2,032.38

Filed 18 Jun 1897.