1.3.1.4 Emanuel Kessler (1812-1853)

1.3.1.4 Emanuel Kessler (b: 27 Oct 1812-d: 9 Jul 1853)

Emanuel was the first child born to Andrew and May Kessler after Catherine died in 1810.

We know that Andrew had a son named Emanuel and left him $2,000 when he died in 1860. But Emanuel is not listed in the U.S. Census in 1850 or 1860 in Maryland. There is an Emanuel Kessler living in Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio in 1850 according to the U.S. Census and the entry states that he was born in Maryland.

But there are some contradictions that create doubt about whether this is actually Andrew’s son: 1) My records indicated that Emanuel was born about 1809, but the Census record indicates that he was born about 1812 or 1813; 2) the “Ohio” Emanuel died in 1853, but 3) Andrew Kessler left $2,000 to his son Emanuel in 1860, which does not make sense. Perhaps his will was prepared before Emanuel passed and was never updated.

In the US Census, some of Emanuel’s daughters stated that he was born in Maryland. Other sons and daughters stated Pennsylvania and the youngest reported that he was born in Ohio, even though many of his children were very young at the time he passed.

So, we are left to wonder why we can find no evidence of Emanuel living in Maryland in 1850 or 1860 and how to explain the contradictions if the “Ohio” Emanuel is actually Andrew’s son. Perhaps someday we can resolve this question using DNA testing. Until other evidence is located, I will proceed with the assumption that the “Ohio” Emanuel is Andrew’s son.

Emanuel (b: 27 Oct 1812-d: 9 Jul 1853) was the fourth born son. It is not known when he traveled from Maryland to Richland County, Ohio, which is located northeast of Columbus and west of Canton.

He married Sarah (b: abt. 1815-d: bef. Aug 1850 Richland, Ohio) sometime before 1834. They had seven children. Sarah died before the 1850 U.S. Census was taken on 21 Aug 1850 as she is not included with the family.

Mary ‘Polly’ Sigler (b: 21 Feb 1822-d: 12 Jan 1892) lived nearby — her family is listed in the same 1850 U.S. Census and she is listed in that census as Mary Sigler, age 24. She and Emanuel married on 27 Aug 1850. They had one daughter, Lodema Almarine, born in 1853.

US Census Information: Emanuel, Sarah (1st wife) & Polly (2nd wife) Kessler
  • 1810: Frederick County, Md. (p. 74/105) Andrew Kepler (Kessler), 3 males under 10, 1 male 10-15, 1 male 16-25, 1 male 26-44, 1 female 45+. 2 slaves.
  • 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 this 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: Not found.
  • 1850: Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio (19/27 Aug 21) Emanuel Kessler 37 (farmer), Jackson A. 16 (Ohio), Sarah A. 15 (Ohio), Maria 13 (Ohio), Mary 11 (Ohio), Catherine 9 (Ohio), Washington 7 (Ohio)
Children and Descendants:

1.3.1.4.1 Andrew Jackson Kessler (abt. 1834 Ashland, Ohio-d: 11 Oct 1895 Clark County, Ohio) married Lena Anna Kessler (2 Nov 1835-d: 26 Feb 1908 Clark County, Ohio) on 3 Jun 1854 in Ohio. Andrew had an adopted daughter, Emma. It is not known if Emma was Anna’s daughter from a prior marriage or if Andrew and Anna adopted Emma together.

  • 1840: Not found.
  • 1850: Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio (19/27 Aug 21) Emanuel Kessler 37 (farmer), Jackson A. 16 (Ohio), Sarah A. 15 (Ohio), Maria 13 (Ohio), Mary 11 (Ohio), Catherine 9 (Ohio), Washington 7 (Ohio)
  • 1880: District 034 Bethel, Clark County, Oh (31/47 Jun 26) Andrew Kesler 40 (carpenter), Anna 44, Emma 8 (daughter), Jacob King 85 (father), Anna King 79 (mother)
  • 1900: District 0077 Bath, Green County, Oh (9/38 Jun 5) Anna Kessler 64 (Nov 1835), Emma Semler 27 (Jun 1872 daughter), William Semler 33 (Feb 1867), Anna R. 5 (Oct 1894), Fannol L. 1 (Feb 1899)

1.3.1.4.2 Sarah Ann Kessler Charlton (abt. 1835-19 Nov 1889) was born in Ashland, Ohio and died in Michigan. She married Thomas Henry Charlton (b: 27 Aug 1828 Mi-d: 15 Apr 1895 Michigan). They were farmers and had six children.

  • 1840: Not found.
  • 1850: Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio (19/27 Aug 21) Emanuel Kessler 37 (farmer), Jackson A. 16 (Ohio), Sarah A. 15 (Ohio), Maria 13 (Ohio), Mary 11 (Ohio), Catherine 9 (Ohio), Washington 7 (Ohio)
  • 1860: Crane Township, Wyandot County, Ohio (4/33 Jul 8) Thomas Henry Charlton 32 (farmer), Sarah A. 25 (Kessler Charlton), Mary E. 5, Eli F. 3, Elveretta Jane 2
  • 1870: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (12/75 Aug 29) Thomas H. Charlton 42 (farmer), Sarah A. 34, Mary E. 15. Frank E. 12, June 10, Henry (Calvin) 8, William E. 2
  • 1880: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (6/26 Jun 5) Thomas H. Charlton 51 (farmer), Sarah A. 45, William E. 12, Clarence E. 5 Nearby: Frank E. Charlton 23 (farmer), Rosana 22 …. Eli Charlton 36 (farmer), Jennie 32, William Forrest 8 … Calvin H. Charlton 18 (farm laborer)

1.3.1.4.2.1 Mary E. Charlton Patten (b: 17 Jun 1855 Wyandot, Oh-d: 5 Jan 1935 Barry, Mi) married William Patten on 10 Apr 1873 at the age of 18 in Hastings, Barry County, Michigan. William was a carpenter and later a cabinet maker.

  • 1860: Crane Township, Wyandot County, Ohio (4/33 Jul 8) Thomas Henry Charlton 32 (farmer), Sarah A. 25 (Kessler Charlton), Mary E. 5, Eli F. 3, Elveretta Jane 2
  • 1870: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (12/75 Aug 29) Thomas H. Charlton 42 (farmer), Sarah A. 34, Mary E. 15. Frank E. 12, June 10, Henry (Calvin) 8, William E. 2
  • 1880: District 042 Castleton, Barry County, MI (27/30 Jun 23) William Patten 31 (laborer), Mary 24, Elveretta 6
  • 1900: District 0038 Castleton, Barry County, MI (10/26 Jun 11) William Patten 52 (carpenter Oct 1947), Mary 45 (Jun 1855), Stella 17 (Oct 1882), Roy A. 13 (Jan 1887)
  • 1910: District 0040 Castleton, Barry County, MI (9/21 Apr 27) William Patten 61 (carpenter, Mary 54, Roy 23, Ethel 23 (daughter-in-law), Liam 1 9/12 (grandson)
  • 1920: District 0049 Hastings, Ward 1, Barry County, MI (8/23 Jan 6) Alvin R. Patten 32 (cabinet maker), Ethel 32, Leon A. 10, Hugh A. 1/12, William F. 72, Mary E. 64
  • 1930: District 0008 Hastings, Barry County, MI (1/25 Apr 2) Roy Patten 43 (cabinet maker), Ethel 43, Mary E. 74

1.3.1.4.2.2 Eli Frank Charlton (b: 8 Jun 1857-d: 9 Mar 1928 Mi) married Rosanna Althouse on 31 Oct 1878 at age 20. They had one son, Irving Delos Charlton (28 Aug 1882-17 Jun 1963). Frank, like his father, was a farmer and spent his years living and working in Barry County, Michigan. Irving Delos Charlton donated property for “Historic Charlton Park” in 1936 to Barry County. The Barry County Museum was started in 1944 but not completed until 1950. This first building in the park is now known as the Irving D. Charlton Memorial Museum. Charlton was an avid collector and dreamed of having a museum. He collected old objects so that future generations might understand the difficult tasks early inhabitants of Barry County performed without the benefit of powered equipment.

  • 1860: Crane Township, Wyandot County, Ohio (4/33 Jul 8) Thomas Henry Charlton 32 (farmer), Sarah A. 25 (Kessler Charlton), Mary E. 5, Eli F. 3, Elveretta Jane 2
  • 1870: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (12/75 Aug 29) Thomas H. Charlton 42 (farmer), Sarah A. 34, Mary E. 15. Frank E. 12, June 10, Henry (Calvin) 8, William E. 2
  • 1880: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (6/26 Jun 5) Frank E. Charlton 23 (farmer), Rosana 22
  • 1900: District 0038 Castleton, Barry County, MI (10/26 Jun 11) Frank E. Charlton 42 (farmer, Jun 1857), Rosanna 42 (Feb 1858), Irving D. 17 (Aug 1882)
  • 1910: District 0043 Hastings, Barry County, MI (7/22 Apr 29) Frank E. Charlton 52 (farmer), Rosanna 52, Irving D. 28
  • 1920: District 0053 Hastings, Barry County, MI (10/18 Feb 6) Frank E. Charlton 62 (farmer), Rosanna 61

1.3.1.4.2.3 Elveretta Jane ‘Jennie’ Charlton Harry (b: 24 Feb 1859 Oh-d: 17 Mar 1947 California) married Theodore Finley Harry (26 Jun 1848 Oh-4 Jan 1932 OR), a farmer, and they had five children: Howard Emerson Harry (3 Dec 1877-7 Apr 1953), Maude Dorella Harry Wilcox (28 May 1879-6 Feb 1950), Clyde Eldridge Harry (17 Aug 1882-22 Jun 1962), Earl Logan Harry (5 Apr 1885-18 Nov 1974), and Olive Mary Harry Copple Cook (20 Sep 1891-3 Jan 1977).

  • 1860: Crane Township, Wyandot County, Ohio (4/33 Jul 8) Thomas Henry Charlton 32 (farmer), Sarah A. 25 (Kessler Charlton), Mary E. 5, Eli F. 3, Elveretta Jane 2
  • 1870: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (12/75 Aug 29) Thomas H. Charlton 42 (farmer), Sarah A. 34, Mary E. 15. Frank E. 12, June 10, Henry (Calvin) 8, William E. 2
  • 1880: District 042 Castleton, Barry County, MI (27/30 Jun 23) Theodore Harry 31 (wife), Alverretta 23, Howard 2, Maud 1
  • 1900: District 0018 Dublin, Boone County, NE (6/10 Jun 7) Theodore Harry 51 (farmer, Jun 1845), Elveretta J. 39 (Feb 1861), Maud D. 21 (May 1879), Clyde E. 17 (Aug 1882), Earl L. 15 (Apr 1885), Olive M. 8 (Sep 1891)
  • 1910: District 0094 Fruitland, Canyon County, ID (17/30 Apr 28) Theodore Harry 62 (farmer), Elveretta J. 50, Olive M. 17, Maude Aldridge 28 (boarder)
  • 1920: Not found
  • 1930: District 0407 Portland, OR (7/16 Apr 4) Theodore Harry 81, Elveretta J. 70
  • 1940: District 19-848 Los Angeles, Ca (32/54 Apr 17) Arthur L. WIlcox 63 (assistant foreman, street maintenance), Maude D. 61, Wesley O. 16, Jane 81 (mother-in-law)

1.3.1.4.2.4 Calvin Henry Charlton (b: 10 Aug 1861 Oh-d: 25 May 1932 Mi) married Helen Althouse (22 Aug 1862-28 Apr 1921). Calvin was a farmer and the family lived in Barry County, Michigan. They had two children: John Robert Charlton (18 Apr 1896-13 Jul 1954) and Zeda Symilla Charlton Bennett Smacy (adopted daughter-8 Jun 1902-19 Jan 1983).

  • 1870: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (12/75 Aug 29) Thomas H. Charlton 42 (farmer), Sarah A. 34, Mary E. 15. Frank E. 12, June 10, Henry (Calvin) 8, William E. 2
  • 1880: District 039, Hastings, Barry County, MI (6/26 Jun 5) Andrew Shaffhauser 40, Anne 30, Albert 10, Emma 8, Ella 6, Effie 3, Calvin H. Charlton 18 (farm hand)
  • 1900: District 0045 Maple Grove, Barry County, MI (13/26 Jun 14) Calvin H. Charlton 39 (farmer, Jul 1860), Helen 37 (Aug 1862), John R. 4 (Apr 1826)
  • 1910: District 0047 Maple Grove, Barry County, MI (11/30 Apr 27) Calvin H. Charlton 48 (farmer), Helen 47, John R. 14, Zeda A. 8
  • 1920: District 0057 Maple Grove, Barry County, MI (9/11 Jan 17) Calvin H. Charlton 58 (farmer), Helen 57, Zeda S. 17
  • 1930: District 0012 Hastings, Barry County, MI (17/19 Apr 2) Roseana Charlton 72, Calvin H. 69 (brother-in-law)

1.3.1.4.2.5 William E. ‘Will’ Charlton (b: 14 Apr 1869 Mi-d: 25 Jan 1915 Barry, Mi) married Nellie Isabella Holmes (3 Oct 1876-1 May 1960). Will was a farmer and the family lived in Barry, Michigan. Will and Nellie had two children: Maude ‘Maudie’ Charlton Cook (16 Feb 1899-29 Aug 1982) and Clarence Joseph Charlton (29 Oct 1904-1 Jan 1977).

  • 1870: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (12/75 Aug 29) Thomas H. Charlton 42 (farmer), Sarah A. 34, Mary E. 15. Frank E. 12, June 10, Henry (Calvin) 8, William E. 2
  • 1880: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (6/26 Jun 5) Thomas H. Charlton 51 (farmer), Sarah A. 45, William E. 12, Clarence E. 5
  • 1900: District 0038 Castleton, Barry County, MI (23/26 Jun 23) William Charlton 31 (Apr 1869), Nellie 23 (Oct 1876), Maud 1 (Feb 1899)
  • 1910: District 0040 Castleton, Barry County, MI (11/21 Apr 28) Will Charlton 41 (farmer), Nellie 33, Maudie 11, Clarence 6

1.3.1.4.2.6 Clarence Edgar Charlton (2 Dec 1874 Mi-d: 19 Jul 1898 Barry, Mi) was a farmer. He never married and died at age 23 when he was struck by lightening.

  • 1880: Hastings Township, Barry County, MI (6/26 Jun 5) Thomas H. Charlton 51 (farmer), Sarah A. 45, William E. 12, Clarence E. 5

1.3.1.4.3 Maria Kessler (Abt. 1837-?) was born in Ashland, Ohio. 1.3.1.4.3 Maria Kessler (b: Abt. 1837 Ashland, Ohio-d: Aft. 1850 Ohio?). Little information about Maria could be located. She is in the 1850 U.S. Census, likely married after that, but we have no way of tracking her without a married name.

  • 1850: Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio (19/27 Aug 21) Emanuel Kessler 37 (farmer), Jackson A. 16 (Ohio), Sarah A. 15 (Ohio), Maria 13 (Ohio), Mary 11 (Ohio), Catherine 9 (Ohio), Washington 7 (Ohio)

1.3.1.4.4 Mary Anna Kessler Ebersole (b: Sep 1840 Ashland, Ohio-d: 10 Apr 1905 Ohio) married Peter S. Ebersole (2 May 1831-7 Dec 1909). Peter was a farmer and the family lived in Wyandot County, Ohio. They had five children: William Henry Ebersole (Jun 1860-17 Oct 1930), Albert E. Ebersole (11 Jun 1862-11 May 1908), Emma Harriet Ebersole Mease Armstrong (Jul 1864-aft. 1926 Illinois), David Milton Ebersole (15 Oct 1867-9 Apr 1931), and Cora Ebersole Dupuy (15 Oct 1874-25 Jun 1950).

  • 1850: Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio (19/27 Aug 21) Emanuel Kessler 37 (farmer), Jackson A. 16 (Ohio), Sarah A. 15 (Ohio), Maria 13 (Ohio), Mary 11 (Ohio), Catherine 9 (Ohio), Washington 7 (Ohio)
  • 1860: Crane Township, Wyandot County, Ohio (2/33 Jul 5) Peter Eversall 26 (farmer), Mary Anne 21, William H. 1, Olive E. 6, Catherine Kessler 18 (1842)
  • 1870: Crane, Wyandot, Oh (6/33 Jul 25) Peter Ebersole 38 (farmer), Mary A. 32, William H. 11, Albert E. 9, Harriett Emma 6, Melton David 2
  • 1880: District 0164 Crane, Wyandot, Oh (1/30 Jun 1) Peter Ebersole 48 (farmer), Mary A. 41, William H. 20, Albert E. 18, Harriett 16, David 12, Cora 5
  • 1900: District 0134 Upper Sandusky, Wyandot, Oh (6/43 Jun 2) Peter Ebersole 66 (retired, May 1834), Mary K. 59 (Sept 1840), Cora 4 (granddaughter, Oct 1895) Next door: Milton Eversole 32 (farmer, Oct 1867), Mary 27 (Aug 1872), Loyd 5 (Jun 1894), Ray 4 (Oct 1895), Minnie 1 (Nov 1898)

1.3.1.4.5 Catherine Lodema Kessler Shriner Ogden (abt. 1841-d: 10 Feb 1920 St. Joseph, IN) was born in Ashland, Ohio married Darius Shriner (b: abt. 1839 Ohio-d: 31 Aug 1870 Barry County, MI) on 30 Oct 1862 in Upper Sandusky, Wyandot, Ohio. They had three children before he died at age 31, in 1870, the first was born in Ohio and the other two were born in Barry County, Michigan. There is a record of Catherine Shriner (born in Richland County, Ohio, marrying Joseph Adison Ogden on 18 Mar 1872 in Nashville, Barry County, Michigan and then moving with him to Maple Grove, Michigan. The 1880 U.S. Census entry for Joseph A. Ogden, however, states that he was divorced when the census was taken in 1880.

  • 1850: Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio (19/27 Aug 21) Emanuel Kessler 37 (farmer), Jackson A. 16 (Ohio), Sarah A. 15 (Ohio), Maria 13 (Ohio), Mary 11 (Ohio), Catherine 9 (Ohio), Washington 7 (Ohio)
  • 1860: Crane Township, Wyandot County, Ohio (2/33 Jul 5) Peter Eversall 26 (farmer), Mary Anne 21, William H. 1, Olive E. 6, Catherine Kessler 18 (1842)
  • 1870: Maple Grove, Barry County, MI (17/36 Jun 17) D. W. Shriner 31 (farmer, b: Ohio), Catherine K. 26 (b: Ohio), William A. 6 (b: (Ohio), Cora E. 3 (b: Michigan), John S. 1 (b: Michigan)
  • 1880, 1900 and 1910: Not found.

1.3.1.4.5.1 William Anderson Shriner (b: 29 Apr 1864 Ohio-d: 8 Jul 1920 Alabama) married Mary Rosanna Kurtz (20 Jul 1866-3 Apr 1948). William was a carpenter and then became a contractor later in life. William and Mary had six children: Ralph Wesley Shriner (30 Jul 1890-3 Jan 1984 naval officer), Wilbur Leslie Shriner (7 Sep 1892-24 Dec 1953 naval officer), Gladys Loleta Shriner Dryer (19 Jul 1895-4 Nov 1992), Carlos Everett Shriner (5 Jul 1900-22 Mar 1994), Esther Mary Shriner Hanson (4 Oct-1902-19 Mar  1986), and Vernon Kurtz Shriner (12 Aug 1907-27 Jan 1995).

  • 1880: District 093 Smith, Whitley County, IN (22/23 Jun 29) William Coverstone 28 (farmer), Martha 30, Corah A. 3 (daughter), Moses E. 1 (son), William A. Shriner 16 (boarder, farm laborer)
  • 1900: District 0100 Mobile Ward 1, AL (1/46 Jun 1) William A. Shriner 35 (carpenter, July 1864), Mary R. 34 (Apr 1866)
  • 1910: Not found.
  • 1920: District 0008 Daphne, Baldwin, AL (21/47 Jan 17) William A. Shriner 55 (building contractor), Mary R. 53, Carlos E. 19 (teacher), Esther M. 17, Vernon K. 12

1.3.1.4.5.2 Cora Elvira Shriner Grant (b: 9 Oct 1866 Michigan-d: 13 Jan 1952 LA, California) married Elmer Franklin Albert (28 Feb 1865-21 Sep 1939) on 28 Sep 1887 in Kosciusko County, Indiana. Elmer (Frank?) worked in various jobs including as a telegraph operator for the railroad and an accountant for an oil company. Elmer and Cora had two children: Ethel Lenora Albert Goss (26 Dec 1888-11 Feb 1947) and Mable L. Albert Kinzly (1890-1971).

  • 1880: District 093 Smith, Whitley County, IN (22/23 Jun 29) William Coverstone 28 (farmer), Martha 30, Corah A. 3 (daughter), Moses E. 1 (son), William A. Shriner 16 (boarder, farm laborer)
  • 1900: District 067 Wayne, Kosciusko, Indiana (28/33 Jun 29) Elmer Albert 34 (Feb 1866, telegraph operator), Cora 33 (Oct 1866), Ethel L. 11 (Dec 1888), Mabel L. 9 (Aug 1890)
  • 1910: District 0004 Precinct 5 Chaffee, Colorado (1/13 Apr 15) Elmer F. Albert 44 (Feb 1866, telegraph, railroad), Cora 43, Ethel 21, Mabel 19
  • 1920: District 0204 Mishawaka, St. Joseph, IN (4/20 Jan 5) Elmer F. Albert 52 (traffic operator, factory), Cora 50, Elmer Bowers 22 (roomer), Dwight Blackman 19 (roomer)
  • 1930: District 0588 Los Angeles, CA (9/62 Apr 35) Elmer F. Albert 57 (accountant, oil company), Cora 57
  • 1940: District 60-1272 Los Angeles, CA (20/36 Apr 11) Cora Albert 73

1.3.1.4.5.3 John Shelton Shriner (b: 4 Oct 1868 Michigan-d: 1 Feb 1886 Whitley, IN)

  • 1870: Maple Grove, Barry County, MI (17/36 Jun 17) D. W. Shriner 31 (farmer, b: Ohio), Catherine K. 26 (b: Ohio), William A. 6 (b: (Ohio), Cora E. 3 (b: Michigan), John S. 1 (b: Michigan)
  • 1880: District 097 Union, Whitley County, IN (22/23 Jun 9) David Eisler 42 (farmer), Rebecca 35, Daisy 3, Delpha 1, Shelton Shriner 11 (hired boy)

1.3.1.4.6 William Washington Kessler (b: 5 Sep 1844 Ashland, Ohio-d: 16 Oct 1918 Whitley, Indiana) was born in Ashland, Ohio and died in Waitley, Indiana. He married Mary Ann Waterfall Kessler (b: 18 Mar 1849 Licking, Oh-d: 19 May 1938 Whitley, Indiana). William served in the Civil War. Afterwards, he was a shoemaker and then a brick and tile dealer. William and Mary Ann had five children.

  • 1850: Mifflin Township, Richland County, Ohio (19/27 Aug 21) Emanuel Kessler 37 (farmer), Jackson A. 16 (Ohio), Sarah A. 15 (Ohio), Maria 13 (Ohio), Mary 11 (Ohio), Catherine 9 (Ohio), Washington 7 (Ohio)
  • 1860: Not found (Civil War soldier during 1860s)
  • 1870: Columbia Ward 4, Whitley, Indiana (2/6 11 Jul 1870) William W. Kessler 25 (shoemaker), Mary A. 21, Lodema 2 (b: Indiana)
  • 1880: Columbia City District 096, Whitley, Indiana (14/44 3 Jun) William W. Kessler 34 (shoemaker), Mary A. 30, Lodema 12, Eddy 9, Irvine 3, Chester 1
  • 1900: Columbia District 113, Whitley, Indiana (23/60 9 Jun) William W. Kessler 55 (brick & tile dealer), Mary A. 51 (Mar 1849), Vern 18 (Mar 1882), Mary E. Koontz 14 (niece Jul 1885)
  • 1910: Columbia District 143 Ward 2, Whitley, Indiana (15/22 29 Apr) William W. Kessler 65 (retail merchant … father born in Maryland ….!), Mary A. 61

1.3.1.4.6.1 Lodema Faye Kessler Houtzer (b: 3 May 1869 In-d: Apr 1969 Whitley, Indiana) married William H. Houtzer (2 Jun 1864-30 Nov 1913) on 25 Dec 1892. William was a stone mason and worked in the family brick and tile business. Lodema and William had three children: Paul Valentine Houtzer (6 Jun 1895-25 Sep 1980), William Dewey Houtzer (6 Jul 1898-28 Jun 1979), and his twin brother Erven S. Houtzer (6 Jul 1898-1 Feb 1977).

  • 1870: Columbia Ward 4, Whitley, Indiana (2/6 11 Jul 1870) William W. Kessler 25 (shoemaker), Mary A. 21, Lodema 2 (b: Indiana)
  • 1880: Columbia City District 096, Whitley, Indiana (14/44 3 Jun) William W. Kessler 34 (shoemaker), Mary A. 30, Lodema 12, Eddy 9, Irvine 3, Chester 1
  • 1900: District 0089, Van Wert Ward 4, Van Wert, In (18/38 Jun 8) William Houtzer 35 (Jun 1864, stone mason), Lodema 32 (May 1868), Paul 5 (Jun 1894), William 1 (Jul 1898), Erven S. 1 (Jul 1898), Chester Kesler 22 (Jan 1878)
  • 1910: District 0102, Van Wert Ward 4, Van Wert, In (3/20 Apr 16) William Houtzer 45 (salesman, marble & granite), Lodema 41 (dressmaker), Paul V. 14, William S. 11, Irvin D. 11
  • 1920: District 0042, Houston, Tx (1/31 Jan 2) Lodema Houtzer 51, Ervin S. 21, William D. 21, Inez 17 (daughter-in-law), Mary A. Kessler 70 (mother)
  • 1930: Not found
  • 1940: District 92-14, Thorn Creek, Whitley, In (31/37 Apr 29) Paul V. Houtzer 44 (hauling salesman), Irene O. 45 (telephone operator), Elizabeth F. 21, Kathleen F. 15, Paul V. Jr. 11, Lodema 71 (mother)

1.3.1.4.6.2 Samuel Edward ‘Eddy’ Kessler (b: 13 Aug 1872 In-d: 14 May 1947) married Arta Maselle Myers Kessler (b: 24 Oct 1876 In-d: Sep 1965 Sarasota, Fl). They had four children, listed below.

  • 1880: District 096, Columbia City, Whitley, Indiana (14/44 3 Jun) William W. Kessler 34 (shoemaker), Mary A. 30, Lodema 12, Eddy 9, Irvine 3, Chester 1
  • 1900: District 0113, Columbia, Whitley, In (29/60 Jun 12) Samuel E. Kessler 28 (stone cutter, Aug 1871), Arta M. 23 (Oct 1876), Irene L. 4 (May 1896), Catherine M. 1 (Oct 1898)
  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 3, Whitley, In (6/20 Apr 20) Edward S. Kessler 37 (cement contractor), Arta M. 33, Irine L. 13, Mary C. 11, David E. 6, Arta E. 4
  • 1920: District 0172, Columbia, Whitley, In (6/20 Jan 7) Samuel E. Kessler 46 (building contractor), Arta M. 42, David E. 16, Arta E. 14
  • 1930: District 0009, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (38/43 Apr 16) Samuel E. Kessler 57 (none), Arta M. 53
  • 1940: Not found

1.3.1.4.6.2.1 Irene L. Kessler Plummer (b: 19 May 1896 In-d: 7 Jun 1981 Orange County, Ca) married Lawrence Leroy Plummer (9 Oct 1892-25 Apr 1958) on 21 Jun 1915 in St. Joseph, Michigan. They had three children: Arta Kathleen Plummer Hickey (5 Aug 1917-26 Feb 2006), Edward L. Plummer (22 Apr 1921-15 Aug 1948), and Audrey I. Plummer Lutmer (24 Feb 1926-25 Dec 1999).

  • 1900: District 0113, Columbia, Whitley, In (29/60 Jun 12) Samuel E. Kessler 28 (stone cutter, Aug 1871), Arta M. 23 (Oct 1876), Irene L. 4 (May 1896), Catherine M. 1 (Oct 1898)
  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 3, Whitley, In (6/20 Apr 20) Edward S. Kessler 37 (cement contractor), Arta M. 33, Irine L. 13, Mary C. 11, David E. 6, Arta E. 4
  • 1920: District 0032, Ft Wayne Ward 1, Allen, In (11/21 Jan 8) Lawrence Plummer 27 (laborer, electric company), Irene 23, Catherine 2
  • 1930: District 0007, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (42/46 Apr 17) Lawrence L. Plummer 37 (foreman, insulated wire), Irene L. 33, Kathleen A. 12, Edward L. 8, Audrey I. 4 3/12
  • 1940: District 94-10, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (17/31 Apr 17) Lawrence L. Plummer 48 (foreman), Irene L. 44, Edward L. 17, Audrey 13

1.3.1.4.6.2.2 Mary Catherine Kessler Davis (b: 9 Oct 1898-d: 31 Aug 1990 Manatee, Fl) married Harley George Davis (19 Sep 1895-16 Jun 1993) on 18 Oct 1919 in Whitley, Indiana. Harley worked as a draftsman and a production manager at a glass company in Whitley, Indiana. Mary Catherine and Harley had three children: Katherine Ann Davis Dukes (3 Sep 1920-6 Dec 1999), David Edward Davis (1924-1953 Manatee, Fl), and Robert Kenneth Davis (abt. 1932-28 Jan 1959 Manatee, Fl).

  • 1900: District 0113, Columbia, Whitley, In (29/60 Jun 12) Samuel E. Kessler 28 (stone cutter, Aug 1871), Arta M. 23 (Oct 1876), Irene L. 4 (May 1896), Catherine M. 1 (Oct 1898)
  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 3, Whitley, In (6/20 Apr 20) Edward S. Kessler 37 (cement contractor), Arta M. 33, Irine L. 13, Mary C. 11, David E. 6, Arta E. 4
  • 1920: District 0172, Columbia, Whitley, In (6/20 Jan 7) Harley G. Davis 24 (draftsman, garment company), Mary K. 21
  • 1930: District 0007, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (19/46 Apr 9) Harley G. Davis 34 (production manager, glass factory), Catherine M. 31, Catherine A. 9, David E. 6
  • 1940: District 94-10A, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (2/31 Apr 2) Harley G. Davis 44 (production manager, glass factory), Katherine M. 41, David E. 16, Robert 7

1.3.1.4.6.2.3 David Edward Kessler (b: 29 May 1903 In-d: 20 Nov 1976 Cincinnati, Oh) married Pauline Hilda Schumach (8 Jan 1903-12 Dec 1978) on 27 Aug 1927 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. David worked as a salesman in Ohio and he and Pauline had two children: Jon Kessler (abt. 1933-?) and Ann Kessler (abt. 1935-?).

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 3, Whitley, In (6/20 Apr 20) Edward S. Kessler 37 (cement contractor), Arta M. 33, Irine L. 13, Mary C. 11, David E. 6, Arta E. 4
  • 1920: District 0172, Columbia, Whitley, In (6/20 Jan 7) Samuel E. Kessler 46 (building contractor), Arta M. 42, David E. 16, Arta E. 14
  • 1930: District 0311, Norwood, Hamilton, Oh (37/59 Apr 22) David E. Kessler 26 (salesman, longshore boxes), Pauline 26
  • 1940: District 91-54, Cincinnati, Hamilton, Oh (17/30 Apr 11) David E. Kessler 36 (salesman, corrugated paper), Pauline 36, Jon 7, Ann 5, Veda Thompson 23 (servant)

1.3.1.4.6.2.4 Arta Clara Kessler Samsen (b: 14 Jan 1905 In-d: 18 May 1992 In) married John E. Samsen. They had three children: John Richard ‘Dick’ Samsen (b: 1927), and twins, Paula Jean ‘Jeanne’ Samsen Gilpin (b: 1932) and Arta Jeannette Samsen (b: 1932).

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 3, Whitley, In (6/20 Apr 20) Edward S. Kessler 37 (cement contractor), Arta M. 33, Irine L. 13, Mary C. 11, David E. 6, Arta E. 4
  • 1920: District 0172, Columbia, Whitley, In (6/20 Jan 7) Samuel E. Kessler 46 (building contractor), Arta M. 42, David E. 16, Arta E. 14
  • 1930: District 0007, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (25/46 Apr 11) John E. Samsen 25 (proprietor, radio shop), Arta C. 25, J. Richard 2 6/12
  • 1940: District 94-47, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (17/43 Apr 15) John E. Samsen 35 (proprietor, electrical appliance shop), Arta C. 35, Dick 12, Jeanne 8, Jeannette 8.

1.3.1.4.6.3 Washington Ervin Kessler (b: 14 Apr 1877 In-d: 21 Jun 1941 Whitley, Indiana) married Cora Elvira Bassett Kessler (b: 8 Sep 1879 In-d: 27 Mar 1967 Whitley, Indiana). Ervin was a barber in Columbia, Indiana. He and Cora had four children: Lewis Hanford ‘Lew’ Kessler (12 Mar 1900-20 Mar 1974), Mabel Rena Kessler Harper Cretcher (16 Feb 1907-21 Nov 1980), Arthur Lincoln Kessler (12 Feb 1911-15 Apr 1999), and Reverend Maurice E. Kessler (12 Oct 1914-27 Feb 2008).

  • 1880: District 096, Columbia City, Whitley, Indiana (14/44 3 Jun) William W. Kessler 34 (shoemaker), Mary A. 30, Lodema 12, Eddy 9, Irvine 3, Chester 1
  • 1900: District 0154 South Haven, Van Buren, Mi (32/40 Jun 15) Washington E. Kessler 24 (barber, Mar 1876), Cora E. 20 (Sep 1879), Lewis H. 2/12 (Mar 1900), Minnie Mielker ? (servant)
  • 1910: District 0110 Grand Rapids Ward 11, Kent, Mi (17/29 Apr 21) Washington E. Kessler 33 (barber), Cora E. 30, Louis H. 10, Mabel L. 3
  • 1920: District 0170 Columbia, Whitley, In (2/25 Jan 2) Ervin W. Kessler 42 (barber), Cora E. 40, Lewis H. 19, Mabel L. 12, Arthur L. 8, Maurice E. 5, Lewis H. Bassett 71 (father-in-law), Elizabeth O. Bassett 69, (mother-in-law), Edith L Bassett 49 (sister-in-law)
  • 1930: District 0004 Columbia, Whitley, In (5/25 Apr 5) Ervin W. Kessler 52 (barber), Cora E. 50, Mabel L. 23, Arthur L. 19, Morris 15, Eliza Bassett 79
  • 1940: District 92-5 Columbia, Whitley, In (8/25 Apr 8) Ervin W. Kessler 62 (barber), Cora E. 60, Mabel L. Harper 33, Paul E. Harper 1 (grandson)

1.3.1.4.6.3.1 Lewis Hanford Kessler (b: 12 Mar 1900 In-d: 20 Mar 1974 Kansas) married Elizabeth Macasalyn (26 Apr 1903, WI-Aug 28, 1984 KS). They had three children: Gwendolyn L. Kessler John (abt. 1921-aft. 2014), Lewis Hanford Kessler Kr (30 Apr 1927 WI-18 Apr 2009 Venice, Fl), and Avery Bassett Kessler (9 Jan 1931 WI-7 Jul 2014 WI).  Lewis Sr. was a professor at the University of Wisconsin.

  • 1900: District 0154 South Haven, Van Buren, Mi (32/40 Jun 15) Washington E. Kessler 24 (barber, Mar 1876), Cora E. 20 (Sep 1879), Lewis H. 2/12 (Mar 1900), Minnie Mielker ? (servant)
  • 1910: District 0110 Grand Rapids Ward 11, Kent, Mi (17/29 Apr 21) Washington E. Kessler 33 (barber), Cora E. 30, Louis H. 10, Mabel L. 3
  • 1920: District 0170 Columbia, Whitley, In (2/25 Jan 2) Ervin W. Kessler 42 (barber), Cora E. 40, Lewis H. 19, Mabel L. 12, Arthur L. 8, Maurice E. 5, Lewis H. Bassett 71 (father-in-law), Elizabeth O. Bassett 69, (mother-in-law), Edith L Bassett 49 (sister-in-law)
  • 1930: District 0090 Dane, Madison, WI (1/47 Apr 2) Lewis H. Kessler 30 (university teacher), Elizabeth M. 28, Gwendolyn L. 6, Lewis Jr. 11/12
  • 1940: District 13-64 Madison, WI (36/38 Apr 16) Lewis H. Kessler 40 (associate professor, university), Elizabeth 34, Gwendolyn 14, Lewis Jr. 12, Avery 9

1.3.1.4.6.3.2 Mabel Rena Kessler Harper Cretcher (b: 16 Feb 1907-d: 21 Nov 1980 In) married John Dorsey Harper Sr. (28 Oct 1912 KY-3 Feb 1981-IN). They had two sons: John Dorsey Harper, Jr (17 May 1937 IN-3 Jun 2000 IN), and Paul Ervin Harper, Sr. (14 Aug 1938 IN-16 Sep 2010 IN).

  • 1910: District 0110 Grand Rapids Ward 11, Kent, Mi (17/29 Apr 21) Washington E. Kessler 33 (barber), Cora E. 30, Louis H. 10, Mabel L. 3
  • 1920: District 0170 Columbia, Whitley, In (2/25 Jan 2) Ervin W. Kessler 42 (barber), Cora E. 40, Lewis H. 19, Mabel L. 12, Arthur L. 8, Maurice E. 5, Lewis H. Bassett 71 (father-in-law), Elizabeth O. Bassett 69, (mother-in-law), Edith L Bassett 49 (sister-in-law)
  • 1930: District 0004 Columbia, Whitley, In (5/25 Apr 5) Ervin W. Kessler 52 (barber), Cora E. 50, Mabel L. 23, Arthur L. 19, Morris 15, Eliza Bassett 79
  • 1940: District 92-5 Columbia, Whitley, In (8/25 Apr 8) Ervin W. Kessler 62 (barber), Cora E. 60, Mabel L. Harper 33, Paul E. Harper 1 (grandson)

1.3.1.4.6.3.3 Arthur Lincoln Kessler (b: 12 Feb 1911 In-d: 15 Apr 1999 DE) married Wanda Evangeline Doud Kessler (13 May 1915-19 Aug 1999). He was a civil engineer and worked for DuPont Co. for 25 years. He and Wanda had one daughter, Carolyn Jane Kessler Hultman (1939-living McLean, Virginia).

  • 1920: District 0170 Columbia, Whitley, In (2/25 Jan 2) Ervin W. Kessler 42 (barber), Cora E. 40, Lewis H. 19, Mabel L. 12, Arthur L. 8, Maurice E. 5, Lewis H. Bassett 71 (father-in-law), Elizabeth O. Bassett 69, (mother-in-law), Edith L Bassett 49 (sister-in-law)
  • 1930: District 0004 Columbia, Whitley, In (5/25 Apr 5) Ervin W. Kessler 52 (barber), Cora E. 50, Mabel L. 23, Arthur L. 19, Morris 15, Eliza Bassett 79
  • 1940: Not found.

1.3.1.4.6.3.4 Rev. Maurice E. Kessler (b: 12 Oct 1914 In-d: 27 Feb 2008 In) married Marjorie Elizabeth Bolsen (30 Nov 1909-28 Feb 1997) and they had two daughters: Alona Anne Kessler Leininger (25 Aug 1943) and Miriam E. Kessler Sumner (29 Aug 1945).

Maurice was a United Methodist Church pastor in the Northern Indiana Conference. After graduating from Columbia City High School in 1933, he received a Rector Scholarship to DePauw University, where he graduated cum laude in 1938. He graduated from the Boston University School of Theology in 1941. He served United Methodist Churches in the Northern Indiana Conference and retired in 1980 after serving 44 years.

Maurice was a member of the Akron Lions Club, a member of the Astronomical Club in Warsaw, Ind, and an “extra class” amateur ham radio operator for over 60 years, with the call letters NM9K.

  • 1920: District 0170 Columbia, Whitley, In (2/25 Jan 2) Ervin W. Kessler 42 (barber), Cora E. 40, Lewis H. 19, Mabel L. 12, Arthur L. 8, Maurice E. 5, Lewis H. Bassett 71 (father-in-law), Elizabeth O. Bassett 69, (mother-in-law), Edith L Bassett 49 (sister-in-law)
  • 1930: District 0004 Columbia, Whitley, In (5/25 Apr 5) Ervin W. Kessler 52 (barber), Cora E. 50, Mabel L. 23, Arthur L. 19, Morris 15, Eliza Bassett 79
  • 1940: Maurice was attending Boston University School of Theology in 1940. He graduated in 1941.

1.3.1.4.6.4 Chester Leroy Kessler (b: 5 Jan 1879 In-d: 31 Dec 1926 Whitley, Indiana) married Sylvia Minetta ‘Tillie’ Breeding Kessler (b: 10 Dec 1881 Mi-d: 15 Jul 1967 San Diego, Ca). Chester worked with others in the family as a stone cutter and monument salesman. He and Tillie had six children.

  • 1880: District 096, Columbia City, Whitley, Indiana (14/44 3 Jun) William W. Kessler 34 (shoemaker), Mary A. 30, Lodema 12, Eddy 9, Irvine 3, Chester 1
  • 1900: District 0089, Van Wert Ward 4, Van Wert, In (18/38 Jun 8) William Houtzer 25 (Jun 1864, stone mason), Lodema 32 (May 1868), Paul 5 (Jun 1894), William 1 (Jul 1898), Erven S. 1 (Jul 1898), Chester Kesler 22 (Jan 1878)
  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (25/31 May 10) Chester L. Kessler 31 (stone cutter, monument works), Silvia M. 28, Trevia T. 8, Raymond L. 7, Mary L. 4
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (25/31 Jan 10) Charles W. Kessler 41 (salesman, monument works), Tillie 38, Trevia T. 18, Raymond L. 15, Mary L. 13, Betty J. 3/12
  • 1930: District 0003 Columbia, Whitley, In (19/32 Apr 10) Sylvia M. Kessler 48 (merchant, monuments), Betty J. 10, Thomas 8, Ruby Wilcox 58 (house keeper)
  • 1940: District 92-3A Columbia, Whitley, In (8/29 Apr 10) Sylvia A. Kessler 58 (operator, monument shop), Betty 20 (assistant, doctor’s office), Thomas 18, Mary A. Cook 58 (lodger)

1.3.1.4.6.4.1 Trevia Pauline Kessler Brower (b: 2 Oct 1901 Oh-d: 9 Mar 1957 TN) married Paul Vernon Brower (8 May 1898-26 Dec 1987) on 5 Jun 1923 in Whitley, Indiana. Paul was a civil engineer and organic chemist. Treva and Paul had two children: Barbara Jean Brower Baughman (29 Dec 1925-27 Jun 2008) and Robert ‘Bob’ Brower (abt. 1928).

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (25/31 May 10) Chester L. Kessler 31 (stone cutter, monument works), Silvia M. 28, Trevia T. 8, Raymond L. 7, Mary L. 4
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (25/31 Jan 10) Charles W. Kessler 41 (salesman, monument works), Tillie 38, Trevia T. 18, Raymond L. 15, Mary L. 13, Betty J. 3/12
  • 1930: District 0047 Charleston, WV (12/25 Apr 4) Paul Brower 32 (civil engineer), Treva 28, Barbara 4
  • 1940: District 60-47 Edwardsville, Madison, IL (1/30 Jun 14) Paul Brower 42 (organic chemist, oil refinery), Treva 38, Barbara 14, Robert 11

1.3.1.4.6.4.2 Dr. Raymond Leroy Kessler (b: 2 Apr 1904 Henry, OH-d: 20 Sep 1975 Marion, OR) married Mignon Elizabeth Mellen (25 Jul 1902-11 Nov 1988) on 1 Dec 1928 in Yuma, Arizona. Raymond was a medical doctor, and Mignon was a registered nurse. They had one daughter: Nancy Caroline Kessler Lovell Spitz (4 Oct 1931-4 Jul 1986).

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (25/31 May 10) Chester L. Kessler 31 (stone cutter, monument works), Silvia M. 28, Trevia T. 8, Raymond L. 7, Mary L. 4
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (25/31 Jan 10) Charles W. Kessler 41 (salesman, monument works), Tillie 38, Trevia T. 18, Raymond L. 15, Mary L. 13, Betty J. 3/12
  • 1930: District 0339 Portland OR (1/14 Apr 2) Raymond L. Kessler 25 (physician, hospital intern), Mignon E. 25 (nurse, special duty in hospital)
  • 1940: District 30-35 Pendleton, Umatilla, OR (1/14 Apr 2) Raymond L. Kessler 35 (physician, East Oregon State Hospital), Mignon E. 35, Nancy Caroline 8 (daughter)

1.3.1.4.6.4.3 Mary L. Kessler Reinhard (b: 18 Mar 1906 Henry, Ohio-d: Aft. 1967 San Diego, Ca) married Dolph Reinhard (26 Nov 1907 Oregon-2 Mar 1967 Los Angeles) on 21 Aug 1934 in Los Angeles, California. Mary was a nurse. It was difficult to track her down (I spent a lot of time trying). Dolph is an unusual name, and when I researched him, he married two other women, none of whom was our Mary. So perhaps they had a short-lived marriage, or maybe he was a bigamist. It seems that Mary left LA and moved to San Diego and resumed her career as a nurse. I could track her residence in 1947, but after that I could not find additional records.

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (25/31 May 10) Chester L. Kessler 31 (stone cutter, monument works), Silvia M. 28, Trevia T. 8, Raymond L. 7, Mary L. 4
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (25/31 Jan 10) Charles W. Kessler 41 (salesman, monument works), Tillie 38, Trevia T. 18, Raymond L. 15, Mary L. 13, Betty J. 3/12
  • 1930: District 1381 231 Flower Street, San Antonio, Los Angeles, CA (18/30 Apr 10) … Mary L. Kessler 24 (lodger, b: Ohio, pratical nurse, medical physician)
  • 1940: Not found.

1.3.1.4.6.4.4 William Frederick Kessler (b: 12 Mar 1910-d: 15 Mar 1910 Whitley, In) only survived for less than a week after birth.

1.3.1.4.6.4.5 Elizabeth Jane ‘Betty’ Kessler Davidson Dion (b: 28 Sep 1919 In-d: 31 Jan 1997 Az) married James Robert ‘Jim Bob’ Davidson (10 Dec 1923-9 Jan 2011) and they had two children, likely born in Arizona: Gregory Davidson (abt. 1945) and Heather Davidson (abt. 1947). Betty married Aldo Alphonse Dion (10 Aug 1922-23 Jul 1993) on 22 Jan 1977.

  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (25/31 Jan 10) Charles W. Kessler 41 (salesman, monument works), Tillie 38, Trevia T. 18, Raymond L. 15, Mary L. 13, Betty J. 3/12
  • 1930: District 0003 Columbia, Whitley, In (19/32 Apr 10) Sylvia M. Kessler 48 (merchant, monuments), Betty J. 10, Thomas 8, Ruby Wilcox 58 (house keeper)
  • 1940: District 92-3A Columbia, Whitley, In (8/29 Apr 10) Sylvia A. Kessler 58 (operator, monument shop), Betty 20 (assistant, doctor’s office), Thomas 18, Mary A. Cook 58 (lodger)
  • 1.3.1.4.6.4.6 Thomas Chester Kessler (b: 18 Jun 1921 In-d: 14 May 2012 CA) served in the Navy during WW II. He married twice. He married Maxine Bisnet (17 Aug 1920-15 Jun 1966) and they had a daughter: Vicki Daleene Kessler Pires (23 May 1957-27 Mar 2013). His second marriage was to Marilyn Myrna Prusia (1936) on 8 Dec 1974 in Stanislaus, California.
  • 1930: District 0003 Columbia, Whitley, In (19/32 Apr 10) Sylvia M. Kessler 48 (merchant, monuments), Betty J. 10, Thomas 8, Ruby Wilcox 58 (house keeper)
  • 1940: District 92-3A Columbia, Whitley, In (8/29 Apr 10) Sylvia A. Kessler 58 (operator, monument shop), Betty 20 (assistant, doctor’s office), Thomas 18, Mary A. Cook 58 (lodger)

1.3.1.4.6.5 Vern Kessler (b: 3 Mar 1881 In-d: 19 May 1967 Whitley, Indiana) married Lillie Irene ‘Lola’ Rouch Kessler (b: 23 Sep 1883 In-d: 19 Jan 1966 Whitley, Indiana). Vern was a brick mason and stonecutter. Vern and Lola had eight children.

  • 1900: Columbia District 113, Whitley, Indiana (23/60 9 Jun) William W. Kessler 55 (brick & tile dealer), Mary A. 51 (Mar 1849), Vern 18 (Mar 1882), Mary E. Koontz 14 (niece Jul 1885)
  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (10/31 May 5) Vern Kessler 27 (brick mason), Lilly J. 25, Ocia L. 6, Opal M. 3, Edna L. 1 7/12
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: District 0004, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/25 Apr 3) Vern Kessler 48 (salesman, monuments), Lillie 46, Edna 21, Ruth 19, Homer 17, Margaret 13, Carl 10, Robert 8
  • 1940: District 92-5, Columbia, Whitley, In (4/25 Apr 4) Vern Kessler 58 (salesman, monuments), Lidia F. 56, Margaret N. 23, Carl E. 20 (electrical engineer)

1.3.1.4.6.5.1 Ocia L. ‘Ossie’ Kessler Rodenbeck (b: 15 Apr 1904 IN-d: 11 Nov 1989 IN) married Paul H. Rodenbeck (10 Nov 1897-17 Dec 1983) on 9 Jun 1928 in Indiana. They had one daughter: Earleen Mae Rodenbeck Robinson (18 Jan 1922-1 May 2000).

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (10/31 May 5) Vern Kessler 27 (brick mason), Lilly J. 25, Ocia L. 6, Opal M. 3, Edna L. 1 7/12
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: District 0033, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (55/80 Apr 17) Paul H. Rodenbeck 32 (fireman, steam RR), Ocia L. 26
  • 1940: District 94-11, Fort Wayne, Allen, In (15/23 Apr 16) Paul H. Rodenbeck 42 (machinist, Harvester), Ocia L. 36, Carleen 17

1.3.1.4.6.5.2 Opal Marie Kessler Johnson (b: 13 Aug 1906 IN-d: 9 May 1997 IN) married Ralph Russell Johnson (17 Jul 1900-30 Nov 1978). They had no children.

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (10/31 May 5) Vern Kessler 27 (brick mason), Lilly J. 25, Ocia L. 6, Opal M. 3, Edna L. 1 7/12
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: Not found
  • 1940: District 92-7, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/33 Apr 2) Ralph Johnson 39 (textile spinner), Opal 33 (riviter, garments)

1.3.1.4.6.5.3 Edna Lavern Kessler Rhoads (b: 9 Aug 1908 IN-d: 22 Jan 1986 Whitley, IN) married Harry Alfred Rhoads (23 Jun 1906-28 Apr 1997). They had one daughter: Margaret Ann Rhoads (23 Jun 1932 Wayne, Indiana).

  • 1910: District 0143, Columbia Ward 1, Whitley, In (10/31 May 5) Vern Kessler 27 (brick mason), Lilly J. 25, Ocia L. 6, Opal M. 3, Edna L. 1 7/12
  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: District 0004, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/25 Apr 3) Vern Kessler 48 (salesman, monuments), Lillie 46, Edna 21, Ruth 19, Homer 17, Margaret 13, Carl 10, Robert 8
  • 1940: District 92-6, Columbia, Whitley, In (11/29 Apr 13) Albert Rhoads 51, Jennie 51, Harry 33 (salesman, tavern), Edna 31 (daughter-in-law, saleslady, variety store), Margaret Ann 7 (granddaughter)

1.3.1.4.6.5.4 Ruth Elizabeth Kessler Black (b: 29 Nov 1910 IN-d: 2 Feb 2001 IN) married John Kenneth Black (10 Sep 1910-Nov 1970) on 26 Jul 1930 in Indiana. They had two children: Delores Jean Black (27 Dec 1931) and Jack Kenneth Black (26 Jul 1935-9 Aug 1994).

  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: District 0004, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/25 Apr 3) Vern Kessler 48 (salesman, monuments), Lillie 46, Edna 21, Ruth 19, Homer 17, Margaret 13, Carl 10, Robert 8
  • 1940: District 92-4, Columbia, Whitley, In (10/33 Apr 10) Kenneth Black 29 (proprietor, electrical shop), Ruth 29, Jean 8, Jack 4

1.3.1.4.6.5.5 Homer William Kessler (b: 7 May 1912 IN-d: 22 Jan 1999 IN) married Jean Evelyn Mathais ((23 May 1918-2 Jan 1963). They had no children.

  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: District 0004, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/25 Apr 3) Vern Kessler 48 (salesman, monuments), Lillie 46, Edna 21, Ruth 19, Homer 17, Margaret 13, Carl 10, Robert 8
  • 1940: District 92-6, Columbia, Whitley, In (4/29 Apr 8) Homer W. Kessler 27 (foreman, brass works), Jean 21 (inspector, brass works)

1.3.1.4.6.5.6 Margaret M. Kessler Phillips (b: 9 Dec 1916 IN-d: 11 Oct 2009 Allen, IN) married William Clyde Phillips (21 Feb 1916-10 Dec 1993) on 29 May 1947 in Indiana.

  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: District 0004, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/25 Apr 3) Vern Kessler 48 (salesman, monuments), Lillie 46, Edna 21, Ruth 19, Homer 17, Margaret 13, Carl 10, Robert 8
  • 1940: District 92-5, Columbia, Whitley, In (4/25 Apr 4) Vern Kessler 58 (salesman, monuments), Lidia F. 56, Margaret N. 23, Carl E. 20 (electrical engineer)

1.3.1.4.6.5.7 Carl Eugene Kessler (b: 24 Jun 1919 IN-d: 16 Nov 2005 Tx) married Sybil Ruth Wolfe (29 Mar 1925-22 Aug 2014) on 2 Sep 1944. They later divorced on 18 Apr 1975 in Texas. Carl served in the Army during World War II from 24 Jan 1942 until 10 Feb 1946. Carl and Sybil had three children: David Kessler, Ken Kessler, and Carla Kessler.

  • 1920: District 0171, Columbia, Whitley, In (13/27 Jan 8) Vern Kessler 38 (brick mason), Lola 36, Ossie 15, Opal 13, Edna 11, Ruth 9, Homer 7, Margaret 3 2/12, Carl 6/12
  • 1930: District 0004, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/25 Apr 3) Vern Kessler 48 (salesman, monuments), Lillie 46, Edna 21, Ruth 19, Homer 17, Margaret 13, Carl 10, Robert 8
  • 1940: District 92-5, Columbia, Whitley, In (4/25 Apr 4) Vern Kessler 58 (salesman, monuments), Lidia F. 56, Margaret N. 23, Carl E. 20 (electrical engineer)

1.3.1.4.6.5.8 Robert Lee Kessler (b: 16 Nov 1922 IN-d: 10 Aug 2002 Whitley, IN) married Martha Ellen Graves (19 May 1933-9 Apr 2011). They had one child: Sherry Lee Kessler Iholts (22 Oct 1954-28 Jan 2014 Whitley, Indiana).

  • 1930: District 0004, Columbia, Whitley, In (3/25 Apr 3) Vern Kessler 48 (salesman, monuments), Lillie 46, Edna 21, Ruth 19, Homer 17, Margaret 13, Carl 10, Robert 8
  • 1940: District 92-5, Columbia, Whitley, In (4/25 Apr 4) Vern Kessler 58 (salesman, monuments), Lidia F. 56, Margaret N. 23, Carl E. 20 (electrical engineer)

1.3.1.4.7 Amanda E. Kessler Ketzel Gross (b: Jan 1848 Ashland, Ohio-d: 1911, Miami, Ohio) married twice. She married John P. Ketzel (abt. 1844-17 Sep 1874 Marion, Ohio), probably just after he finished his service in the Civil War, sometime before 1869. John died at about age 30, likely when Amanda was pregnant with their fourth child, John. They had four children: Amy Jane Ketzel Wetzel (5 Oct 1869-31 May 1915), Clara Pauline Ketzel Bieber (abt. 1873-19 Dec 1968), Margaret ‘Madge’ Ketzel Harrison Capo (20 Jun 1874-1 Sep 1946 Pima, Arizona), and John Ketzel (abt. 1875- June 1951). Note: Researchers will find many genealogical records suggesting that John Ketzel married Amanda Wolfe. I cannot reconcile the “Wolfe” last name, unless I have the wrong John and Amanda. But in the 1880 U.S Census, Amanda is listed with her Ketzel children.

With four small children, she married David Gross (Aug 1839-10 May 1909 Miami, Ohio) on 1 Feb 1880 in Miami County, Ohio. He had one daughter, likely from a previous marriage, named Sarah Gross, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1873. Amanda and David had one additional child: James Franklin Gross (15 Apr 1886-24 Nov 1941).

  • 1850:
    John Ketzel: Hamilton, Franklin County, Ohio (10/31 Oct 26) Peter Ketzel 38 (blacksmith), Elizabeth 29, George 11, Margaret 9, John 7, Elizabeth 2, Catherine 1, Peter 1

David Gross: Lower Swatara, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania (5/21 Oct 15) John Gross 41, Elizabeth 35, Catherine 15, Margaret 13, Barbara 11, David 9, Jacob 7, John 5, Simon 3

  • 1860:
    Amanda Kessler: Mifflin Township, Ashland County, Ohio (15/21 Aug 20) Mary Kessler 38, Amanda E. 12, Lodima A. 6

John Ketzel: Montgomery, Franklin County, Ohio (25/86 Jul 26) Samuel Eberly 37 (farmer, miller, and distiller), Margaret Eberly 25, John Ketzel 16, Hannah C. (Catherine?) Ketzel, 11

David Gross: East Hanover, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania (20/43 Jun 9) David Peifer 27 (day laborer), Catherine Peifer 26 (likely David’s sister — see 1850 US Census), John H. 2, Franklin 3/12, David Gross 18 (day laborer)

  • 1870:
    John Ketzel & Amanda Kessler: Marion, Marion County, Ohio (23/89 Aug 22) John Ketzel 25 (laborer), Amanda 22, Ann J. 7-12)

David Gross: South Annville, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania (22/47 Aug 8) Jacob Stower 60 (farmer), Rachael 55, Lydia 21, Mary 20, Sarah 18, Lizzie 10, Isaac 28 (field servant), David Gross 29 (field servant), John Marquet 13 (house servant)

  • 1880: David Gross & Amanda Kessler: District 138 Covington, Miami County, Ohio (1/30 Jun 9) David Gross 33 (laborer), Amanda 33, Amy Ketzell 11 (step-daughter), Clara Ketzell 7 (step-daughter), Maggie Ketzell 5 (step-daughter), Sarah Gross (daughter), John Ketzell 4 (step-son)
  • 1900: District 0082 Covington, Miami County, OH (19/39 Jun ?) David Gross 60 (gardiner Aug 1839), Amanda Gross 52 (Jan 1848), James 14 (Apr 1886)
  • 1910: District 0116 Newbury, Miami County, OH (12/40 Apr 21) Amanda Gross 62 (Jan 1848), James F. 24 (Apr 1886)

1.3.1.4.8 Lodema Almarine Kessler Koons (b: 1853 Ashland, Ohio-d: 17 Jun 1910 Ashland, Ohio) was born and died in Ashland, Ohio. Her mother was Emanuel’s second wife, Mary ‘Polly’ Sigler Kessler. She married Charles C. Koons (15 Jul 1848-3 Dec 1929) on 19 Jun 1870 in De Witt, Il. They had eight children: John William Koons (9 Jan 1871-28 Oct 1934 Mansfield, Ohio), Harry Walter Koons (23 Sep 1873-1875 Mifflin, Ohio), Arba G. Koons (male Dec 1876-1924 Mifflin, Ashland, Ohio), Vernon Cloyd ‘Vernie’ Koons (1883-1890), Mary Edna Koons (18 Jul 1885-17 Mar 1921), Georgia Hazel Koons (28 Nov 1888-30 Jan 1908), and Clora Cleo Koons Echelberger (5 May 1893-23 Dec 1909).

  • 1860: Amanda Kessler: Mifflin Township, Ashland County, Ohio (15/21 Aug 20) Mary Kessler 38, Amanda E. 12, Lodima A. 6
  • 1870: Cannot locate US Census, but Lodema and Charles Koons were married on 19 Jun 1870 in De Witt, Illinois, so that likely explains why they were not in the Census)
  • 1880: Mifflin Township, Ashland County, Ohio (3/18 Jun 2) Charles Koons 30 (farmer), Lodema Koons 26, William Koons 9, Arba G. Koons 3, Anna M. Koons 8 months (Oct), Mary Woodhull 58 (widowed)
  • 1900: District 0006, Mifflin Township, Ashland County, Ohio (9/16 Jun 9) Lodema A. Koons 43 (Oct 1856), Arbie G. Koons 23 (Dec 1876), Anna M. Koons 20 (Oct 1879), Georgia H. 11 (Nov 1888), Clora C. 7 (May 1893)
  • 1910: District 0007, Mifflin Township, Ashland County, Ohio (2/12 Apr 15) Charles Koons 60 (laborer, odd jobs), Lodema A. Koons 56, Mary 24 (daughter), Henry Koons 4 (grandson)