- Edith Oldham Cobb (1773-1836) of Estill Co., KY (185 KB)
I believe the older woman to be my 4th Great Grandmother, Edith Oldham (1773-1836), wife of Hon. Jesse Cobb, Sr.(1769-1836).Jesse and Edith died 3 weeks apart, 2 and 23 June respectively. I don't know what the cause of death is though suspect that Jesse died from sickness based on his will and that Edith quite possibly died from ths shock of his death and "heartbreak". This picture was provided by Roger Deane of Atlanta, GA, a desc. of Eli Park. Edith was the mother-in-law to Mary "Minerva" Park, my maternal 3rd Great Grandmother whose picture is also on this page. The family relationships that exist by virtue of Minerva "Mary" Park's marriage to Edith Oldham Cobb's son, would be a likely reason as to why Roger Deane's Family has possession of these wonderful pictures! Jesse and Edith came to Estill County, KY in 1795 from Caswell County, North Carolina. - Cabin Creek (Davidson Co., NC)! - Eb Park, Sr. (55 KB)
Legendary Cabin Creek next to the Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) Homestead in Davidson Co., NC where they lived for 24 years before migrating to Madison Co., KY in 1796. Eb and Tab, my 5th Great Grandparents married in nearby Salisbury, NC (where the Wilderness Trail to KY begins)on 6 Jan 1772. This land is off of rural Rt. 8 near present-day Jackson hill Township, NC. - Great Grandfather, William Henry Park I(1860-1932) (174 KB)
Nice picture of my Great Grandfather Park buried in Richmond Cemetery, KY. - Site of Ebenezer Park Homestead on Cabin Creek(NC) (70 KB)
In this clearing is where my 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and wife, Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) house sat near Cabin Creek, Davidson Co., NC (near Jackson Hill Township). This land still remains the way it looked then--nearly 200 years ago. Tragically, vandals burned this deserted homestead to the ground on Halloween 1999, but they could not take away the serene land that upon which they once walked! Photo taken on Easter 2000 Weekend (Saturday). - William H. Park I and Eleanor Simpson (1865-1944) (224 KB)
My Great Grandparents who lived in Irvine and Richmond, KY. - Noah Park, Jr. & Joanah Peeler Tombstones (136 KB)
Pictures of the tombstones of my 4th Great Aunt and Uncle, Noah Park, Jr. (1779-1829) and Joanah Peeler (1779-1829) buried at Bean-Wyatt Cemetery in Rowan Co., N.C. as they appeared in 2000. Ironically, Noah Park, Jr. is the son of my 5th Great Grandfather's (Eb Park, Sr., 1747-1839) brother, Noah Park, Sr. (1743-1815) & Anna Reed (1749-1833). Noah Park, Jr's wife, Joanah Peeler, is the sister to my 4th Great Grandmother, Polly Peeler (1774-1856) who married John Park (1773-1828), brother of Noah Park, Jr.!Sisters (Polly & Joanah Peeler) who married two men who are 1st cousins to each other (John Park & Noah Park, Jr. - Fathers are brothers)! John Park and Polly Peeler lived and died in Estill Co., KY near Station Camp Creek. - Millennium Easter-Jersey Settlement Baptist Church (73 KB)
A beautiful Easter 2000 day at the Jersey Baptist Church in Lexington, NC (Davidson County). I celebrated this holiest of days there with descendants of my 7th Great Grandmother's (Sarah Smith) brother, Thomas Smith! This Church was founded in the mid-1750s. Sarah was Grandmother to my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839)! - Wm. H. Park II and Frances T. Bell (91 KB)
My mother and father!William Henry Park II (1930-) born in Richmond, KY and Frances Theresa Bell (1932-), born in Dunbar, PA. Both have resided in Bowie, MD (20 miles north of D.C.) since 1967. - Close-up of Noah Park & Anna Reed Tombstones (243 KB)
Close-up view of stones of Noah Park, Sr. (1743-1815) (BOTTOM) and Anna Reed (1749-1833)(TOP) as found on their farm in Rowan Co., NC off of rural River Rd. in a wooded area not far from Cedar Creek. Noah, the brother to my 5GGF, Eb Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and his (Noah's) wife, Anna, are my 5th Great Aunt and Uncle. These tombstones, especially, Noah's, are fast deterioriating.I'm looking for someone in the Salisbury, NC (Rowan Co.) area to help me contact Noah Park descendant (through daughter, Elizabeth), Dr. James Hinson, who also owns land, to help restore these stones before they are forever lost!Can you help? - Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Marker (DAR) (55 KB)
The only way you would see this historical marker as I did, is to retrace some of your ancestor's footsteps (131 years ago in my case) as I did through the Cumberland Gap on the historic Wilderness Trail itself (3 Jul 2000)!The feeling of excitement and historical meaning of this trail for my ancestors caused me to reflect deeply on my roots and how my ancestors must have felt as I walked through the gap, visibly narrowed by more than a century of wild vegetation and the absence of horses and wagons since it's pioneer glory years. - Discovery 2000 - Looking for Eb in Thick Woods! (82 KB)
Fighting thick brush as we close in on the burial place of my 5th Great Grandparents and 4-state pioneers, Ebenenzer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) in Eastern Madison County, KY on land once owned by their son, Colonel Eli Park (1787-1858) and his wife, Winnaford Dillingham). We found the final resting place there on 30 June 2000 after a 2-year search! - Elveree Collins Durham-Park (1911-1989) (209 KB)
My Grandmother (Father's Mother) - My Maternal Grandparents - Young Newlyweds (63 KB)
My maternal grandparents, Angela Veronica Padovini (1910-1992) & Samuel Robert Bell (Prioriello) (1901-1967) at a picnic shortly after their marriage. Grandma married at 16 years of age. - Daniel Boone's Wilderness Trail into KY (61 KB)
Part of the 1/2 mile stretch of Daniel Boone's original Wilderness Trail (Road) that remains today as it appeared on 3 Jul 2000 as I hiked through the Cumberland Gap!Ebenezer Park and Tabitha Mills (My 5th GGP) followed Daniel Boone out of Salisbury, NC (married there 6 Jan 1772) where the trail originates, in 1796 with their 10 children on horseback enroute to Kentucky.My research finds 4 reasons for Eb and Tab's migration to KY from NC:(1) Beauty and promise of new fertile lands for their children following Boone's exploration.(2) Eb was being ordered to build a road in Rowan County that would come to close to his land.I believe he stood steadfast on this perceived intrusion and was not about to be a part of itsconstruction which preceded his departure.(3) Shawnee defeat was a key in the timing to make the hazardous journey north to Kentucky. ".....the defeat of the Shawnee at Fallen Timbers (Ohio) in August 1794reduced the perils of the Cumberland Gap, through which also passed the War Road of the Indians, and gave added safety to the Kentucky settlements."(4) The widening of the Wilderness Trail to accommodate wagons in 1796 (learned this as I explored Wilderness Trail on return from KY this past Summer)! - Milton J. Durham (1883-1966)-My Great Grandfather (222 KB)
Husband to my Great Grandmother Minerva "Mamee" Cobb (Father's Maternal side). - My Mother - Little Girl on Tricycle (1930s) (117 KB)
My mother, Frances Theresa Bell-Park as a small girl. Such a cutie! - Daddy's Littlest Angel - Bryanna Noelle Park (183 KB)
This photo taken of my youngest daughter in April 1999 at age 4. Her personality is as wonderful as she is cute. God's gift to my wife and I. Bryanna (now 12) has a 21-year old sister, Brittany Lynn Park; an older brother, Brandon Nicholas Park (23) and a younger brother, Brayden Myles Park (8). As soon as I can get a family photo, all will be posted on this page. - Richard Park & Mary Elizabeth Kinnard (1900) (172 KB)
Picture of Richard Park, the Great Grandson of Allen Park (1745-1805) who is my 5th Great Uncle (Allen)and older brother of my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839). Shown with elder, Richard Park, is his wife, Mary Elizabeth Kinnard. They are surrounded by their children and grandchildren. This wonderful picture was taken in Berea, KY, around 1900 and is graciously donated by Richard and Mary Elizabeth's 3rd GGS, David Schulker of Florida. David's line is as follows:Dr. Roger Parke, Sr. (1654-1731) & Anne Pattison (9GGP); John Parke I (1674-1757)& Sarah Smith (1675-1759)(8GGP); John Park II (1707-1758)& Mary Davis (1710-1771)(7GGP); *Allen Park & Elizabeth Giles - Bro. to My Eb Park, Sr.(1747-1839)(6GGP);Amos Park & Sallie French (5GGP);William Park & Martha Ann Cornelison (4GGP); *Richard Park & Mary Elizabeth Kinnard (3GGP); Edward Newton McCormick Jr. & Etta May Parks (2GP); Vincent (Doc) Calloway & Ada May McCormick (GGP); James Brown & Elizabeth Calloway(GP); Edgar Schulker & Sylvia Brown Schulker (Parents); and David Schulker.Enjoy! And thank you, David for sharing with all of us! - Flight of the Redbird Newspaper Article(29 Apr 99) (1269 KB)
Article on Paranormal Experience as written by me for the Fayetteville Observer Times (Saturday Extra Magazine) on 29 Apr 2000. This version is edited. If you would like to see the unedited and complete version, look on this web page. - My Wife and I - Sweetheart Picture (1980) (69 KB)
Pamela Rae Long (1959-) and I, William D. Park (1959-) as we appeared in 1980.We met at West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV in 1977 and married in Aug 1982. - Rhoda Dillingham Park (1788-1857)-A True Matriarch (69 KB)
Rhoda Dillingham Park-Wilson is a great family favorite--related to me on both my maternal Cobb and fraternal Park side, through no less than 13 marriages between her, her siblings, children and even Grandchildren! Rhoda Dillingham was a close friend to my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839)beginning in KY in the early 1800s. The Dillingham Family traces their roots to the 1600s in Maryland. This picture was graciously given to me by Ruth Wilson-McElveen of New Albany, Indiana who obtained it from the late, Eva Dean Boian-Edwards (desc. of Rhoda's daughter, Mariah Park-Boian). Ruth is a descendant of Rhoda by way Rhoda's 2d marriage to Ebenezer Wilson.Rhoda had 4 children by her first marriage to Solomon Park, nephew to my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park and 5 children with her 2d husband, Ebenezer Wilson (upon Solomon Park's passing). I adore Rhoda..my 4th Great Aunt. Her sister, Winnaford Dillingham, married my 5th Great Grandfather's son, Eli Park (picture of them also on this page). Eli and Winnaford Dillingham's daughter, Mary Minerva Park, married my 3rd Great Grandfather (maternal), Richard Cobb, Sr, making Mary's mother, Winnaford Dillingham, my maternal 4th Great Grandmother! Because of this Park-Cobb marriage, my maternal and fraternal 4th Great Grandfathers, Eli Park and John Park, are BROTHERS!! - Levi Park (1823-1911) & Margaret Baker (400 KB)
Picture donated by Frances Moore of Berea, KY (Now 92-years young, God Bless Her Heart)by way of cousin, Leta Settle Craig of South Bend, WA.Levi Park (1823-1911) m. Margaret Baker (1821-1900) is the grandson of my 5th Great Uncle, Allen Park (1745-1805) through his son, Richard Park. Allen is an elder brother to my 4-state Pioneer, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839) m. Tabitha Mills (1752-1826). Thank you Frances and Leta!! - The Bell Family of Pinegrove, WV(1940s)- Mother (330 KB)
My Mother, Frances Theresa Bell (Prioriello)(1932-) is at center pictured with older sister, Betty Jean; younger brother, Ed (a catholic priest); parents, Samuel Robert Bell (1901-1967) and Angela Veronica Padovini (1910-1992). Mom's grandmother, Theresa Giobbi is older woman at left. - Discovery 2000 - Me at my 5GGP Gravesides (57 KB)
Here I am the the site of the final resting place of Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826), my 5th Great Grandparents! Picture taken on 30 June 2000 along Drowning Creek in Madison County, KY. - Amelia (Milly) Park (1815-1876) (297 KB)
Picture graciously donated by Daniel L. Moores through Cousin, Sheri D. Tipton.Ebenezer Park, Jr. (son of my 5th Great Grandparents, Eb Park, Sr. and Tabitha Mills above) and Katurah Turner?s daughter, Amelia "Milly" Park (1815-1876) married 1st Jonathan Park Scrivner (1812-1845), (son of Joseph {1787-1876} who is the brother to John Scrivner, Sr. m. Mary Park, Daughter of my 5GGF, Eb Park, Sr. and sister to Amelia's father, Eb Park, Jr.) on 4 Dec 1834 and 2nd William J. Moores.Amelia (Milly) and Jonathan?s six (6) children were:Jemima (m. John Moores); Katurah (m. Joe Moores); Ambrose (m. Elizabeth Moore); Thomas Jefferson (m. Martha J. Covington); William; and West.Amelia?s (Milly) sister, Rebecca Park (1800-1881) married 1st James Hill and 2nd Joseph Scrivner. Milly and Rebecca above, are SISTERS to Rev. John Mills Park (Eb, Jr.)?all are children to Ebenezer Park, Jr. and Katurah Turner.Note:Amelia ?Milly? is NOT to be confused with ?Milly? Park (born 1830), daughter of Rev. John M. Park, who married James Wagers, Jr.Appears as though, Rev. John M. Park named his daughter, Milly after his sister.Burial Facts: Amelia ?Milly? is buried in (1) Daniels Cemetery (Ambrose Scrivner Cemetery)with 2d husband William Jonathan Moores; Sister, Rebecca Park in (2) James Scrivner Cemetery.Rev. John M. Park?s daughters, Milly (b. 1830) and Tabitha (b. 1846), both who married James Wagers, Jr.?are buried in (3) Brinegar-Wagers Cemetery with James Wagers, Jr.All 3 of these cemeteries are located in the Wagersville Area and are detailed in my book.Amelia (Milly)is the 2GGM to my cherished cousin, The Great Reverend Erwin Ray of Oakland, KY! - Discovery 2000 - Ebenezer Park Found!(Under Trees) (58 KB)
Under fallen cedar trees felled by a 1990's ice storm in Eastern Madison County--we find theheadstones of my Pioneer 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826)on 30 June 2000! Here I am shown peering through the fallen trees to the headstones below. My heart beat fast! - Hon. Milton Jamison Durham - My 3GGF (75 KB)
Picture of my 3rd Great Grandfather, Milton Jamison Durham, donated by my Aunt, Martha Cobb Park-Lamb of Danville, KY. Milton was a 3-term Congressman. Most notably, he was the first Comptroller of the U.S. Treasury, having been appointed by the late President Grover Cleveland. A wonderful picture. - The Discovery 2000 Pioneer Team at Graveside! (50 KB)
Pictured are myself, William "Doug" Park (with cane); Dwight "DogMan"of Waco, KY; and Gary Estes (with beard)of Irvine, KY. My father, William H. Park II took the picture and was also with us when we discovered the final burial site of my 5th Great Grandparents and 4-state Pioneers, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839)and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) in Eastern Madison County on land formerly owned by Col Eli Park (Eb and Tab's son) and WinnafordDillingham. This "Discovery 2000" was made shortly before this picture was taken on 30 June 2000, culminating 2 years of extensive research! - Dedication to the Late Wm. L. Vockery (1 KB)
This picture of William (Bill) Vockery (at center) with my father, William H. Park II and I (Wm. D. Park) at the Vockery residence in Richmond on Wed., 9 June 1999 is a tribute to this Madison County, KY historian who passed away on Friday, 17 September 2004 after a brave battle with cancer. Bill and his wife, Kathy have compiled numerous books invaluable to those researching family lines in Kentucky, in particular, including the Madison Co. Cemeteries book (2 Volumes) and Madison County Marriage and Death record volumes, to mention but a few.In this picture, Bill discusses the existence of two (2) long, unseen graves on a remote Eastern Madison Co.(KY) farm near Panola in response to our question regarding where my 4-State Pioneer, 5th GGPs, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) might be buried along Drowning Creek.Though he had never found or seen the stones for himself, he knew of their possible existence.This critical lead from Bill Vockery was the catalyst for the exciting family discovery Dad and I would make a year later, along with census data, land surveys & patents/grants obtained from the Land Grant Office in Frankfort, Kentucky (Kandie Adkinson). On Friday, 30 June 2000, Dad, myself, and woodsman-friends, Gary Estes of Irvine and Dwight Evans of Panola, would find the final resting place of our Ebenezer and Tabitha on land that was once their son, Eli Park's Farm in the woods--underneath fallen yellow pine trees (a result of an ice storm three years prior). It was an exciting discovery to see tombstones that had been lost for over 100 years!And we have Bill and Kathy Vockery to thank for this priceless family gift.God Bless you, Bill.Your tireless efforts in researching and publishing family history on many family lines in Madison County, Kentucky, have enriched the lives of countless descendants who are now more complete rooted in the knowledge of their ancestors. - Tabitha Simmons-Phelps (1765-1850) (181 KB)
Priceless portrait of my 5th Great Grandmother, Tabitha Simmons, born in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Tabitha was married to George Phelps (1757-1803) who was an "Indian Sharpshooter" and friend of Daniel Boone at Fort Boonesborough. Tabitha and George lived on their farm near Tribble Branch of Otter Creek in present-day Red House, KY in Madison County. She is a direct descendant of Mareen Duvall of Colonial Maryland. This picture was graciously donated by my multi-cousin and talented historian-genealogist, Mary Anne Collins Stokes-Moore of Louisville, Kentucky. Thank you, Anne! - My 3GGF, Peter Taylor Phelps (1824-1909)! (1 KB)
Photograph (Pre-1905) of Peter Taylor PhelpsMy 3rd Great Grandfather at his Waverly Farm on Union City Road in Madison County, KY.Peter's wife was Angeline McCord (1829-1895).Picture Graciously Donated to me bymy cousin, Mary Ann "Anne" Collins Stokes-Mooreof Louisville, KY. Anne is the Granddaughter of Marianne "May" Collins and Frances Hisle.Left to Right in Photo:* Elveree "Rea" (Pronounced "Ree") Phelps (1849-1928)(Wife of William Joel Collins, 1848-1905)-My 2nd Great Aunt, Sister to My 2nd GGM, Tabitha Taylor Phelps (1862-1938)-Aunt to My Great Grandmother, Minerva "Mamee" Cobb (1886-1974)*M.A. (Marianne) "May" Collins (1882-1958)(Son of Elveree Phelps and William Joel Collins and Husband of Frances Hisle, 1896-1988)*William Joel Collins (1848-1905) (Seated with legs crossed)-Son of Peter Taylor Phelps & Angeline McCord (1829-1895)*Peter Phelps Collins-Son of William J. Collins & Elveree Phelps-Nephew to my 2GGM, Tabitha Taylor Phelps (1862-1938)*Peter Taylor Phelps (1824-1909)(Seated, White beard) (My 3rd GGF and Grandson to Peter Woodson Taylor & Nancy Brockman Crossthwaite)* Pat Epards (Woman servant, appears to be of Indian descent)*Bosley Epards (Son of Pat on horse). - Newfound Cousin Arrives Office - 2Lt Jaclyn Witt! (472 KB)
Take a look at 2 of my cousins I discovered at work!There is myself, Marc Gumm and Jaclyn Witt.Marc Gumm's 3rd Great Grandmother, Mariah Park is a Great Niece to Ebenezer Park (1747-1839), my 5GGF, by way of Eb's older brother, John Park III of Hampshire County, VA/WV.Mariah's daughter, Emily Park-Gum of Estill Co., KY, is Marc's 2GGM.Emily's son, William H. Gum married Addie Witt (Marc's Great Grandparents). Marc and I share the same 5th-8th GGPs (his maternal, my fraternal), while he and Jackie share 5 sets of fraternal GGPs! If didn't have my knowledge on our family tree and allied families, I would never have realized our blood-ties, nor would the three of us have the bond that we enjoy as "family" members beyond our AF affilliation. Pictures of Mariah Park and her Grandfather, John Park III, are on this page. Marc and I have known we were cousins since 1999; 2nd Lieutenant Jaclyn Witt, who arrived in our unit in Jan of this year, is the newest addition to our now, family tree-triad! This brings to mind a quote of mine entitled "Genealogy and Our World": "The world is made even smaller and families larger, when one enjoys the enlightenment and wisdom that only genealogical knowledge can bring". Think about it. - My Great Grandparents - J. Padovini & T. Giobbi (476 KB)
Mom's maternal grandparents--Joseph Padovini and Theresa Giobbi from Norcia, Italy (born 1881 and 1883 respectively). Small blonde girl is my Grandmother, Angela Padovini-Bell (1910-1992)with her older sister, Elva, who was born in Italy just before the family departed for Ellis Island, NY. This picture is the untouched version. - James Wagers, Sr. (1800-1864) (45 KB)
Husband to Mourning Park, granddaughter of my 5th GGF, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839), thorough his son, Asa Park. Asa's house is the oldest homestead still standing in Estill County (Wagersville), KY today (pictured on this web page, having been built in 1807. James and Mourning had 15 children together and are co-founders of Wagersville. - Padovini-Giobbi Family of Norcia Italy (Maternal) (466 KB)
Beautiful family picture of Theresa Giobbi (Right), my mother's maternal grandmother (my Great Grandmother,1883-1944); adorable blonde-haired girl is Theresa Giobbi's daughter--my grandmother, Angela Veronica Padovini (1910-1992)! My great grandfather, Joseph Padovini, 1881-1925 (sitting) is Theresa Giobbi's husband. My Grandmother's sister, Elvira "Elva" Padovini-Cammeresi (b. 1906), stands at the far left. Other gentleman is Theresa Giobbi's brother, Antonio Giobbi (b. 1886)and wife Vicenza (b. 1892) with their infant child, Carrie (b.1915). - Newspaper Article on My Cousins at Work!! (109 KB)
Nice article on my two Kentucky Cousins I found at the Office (Carolina Flyer Newspaper in Fayetteville, NC - 15 Mar 2001)! If you don't pay attention, you never know who could be related to you!Enjoy. - Minerva Park Cobb-Durham (1886-1974) (139 KB)
My Great Grandma, Minerva Park Cobb-Durham, also affectionately known as "Mamee" or "Jinx".Mamee was the Great Granddaughter of Mary Minerva Park (1822-1909)m. Richard Cobb, Sr. (1818-1900) of Madison and Lincoln Counties, KY. Mamee was also the 2nd Great Granddaughter of Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1836)--my 5th Great Grandparents. Mamee's mother, Tabitha Phelps, is a direct descendant of the Phelps Pioneer Family who came in to Kentucky and fought at Boonesborough with Daniel Boone!This picture was donated by my Aunt, Martha Cobb Park-Lamb of Danville, KY. - Mary Minerva Park and Richard Cobb, Sr. Portraits (129 KB)
Here are the portraits of my 3rd Great Grandparents, Mary Minerva Park(1822-1909), daughter of Eli Park and Winnaford Dillingham, and Richard Cobb, Sr. (1818-1900). Thanks to my father, William Henry Park II (1930-)for helping us gain access to the vacant house belonging to Minerva McAllister-Jett (in nursing home after suffering stroke) and for taking these priceless photographs of these once, long, lost portraits in Lexington, KY on our latest Expedition (3rd)to Kentucky on 17-23 April 01. Even at 76, Mary was a beautiful woman.Richard had deep blue eyes and stood 6'2" tall. Mary's birthday was 4 May....she would be 179 years old this year. She and Richard were married for 58 years before his death in 1900. Both are buried in Buffalo Springs Cemetery in Lincoln County in Sanford and not far from the Boyle County border and Danville, KY where my Aunt lives (Martha Park-Lamb). A photograph of Mary is also on this page as she appears with daughter, Betty Cobb-McKinney and Grandaughter (Yager). - Homestead of Mariah Park and William Boian, Sr. (35 KB)
Mariah Park (picture also shown on this page) is the granddaughter of John Park III and Susanna Elrod of Hampshire County, VA. John is the older brother to Ebenezer Park (1747-1839), my 5th Great Grandfather. Mariah's mother, Rhoda Dillingham-Park (picture also shown on this page)was married 1st to John Park III's son, Solomon Park. Solomon is buried in present-day Hampshire County, WV with his parents, John and Susanna. Rhoda returned to KY following Solomon's Death and remarried Ebenezer Wilson.Rhoda and Ebenezer Wilson were parents of Battle of Lookout Mountain Hero, Capt John Wilson of the 8th KY Volunteer Regiment. Mariah and her husband, William Boian, Sr. are buried in Boian Cemetery near Irvine off of Dug Hill Rd. on the Boian Farm. This Homestead was once a log cabin and now belongs to Ermon Edwards whose wife, Eva Dean Boian-Edwards died last summer of cancer. Eva was a direct descendant of Mariah Park and her mother, Rhoda Dillingham-Park. Eva is buried in Boian Cemetery behind this beautiful home near Mariah Park and William Boian, Sr. - Mariah Park and William Boian, Sr. Graves in KY (50 KB)
Mariah Boian (1810-1888) is the Granddaughter to my 5th Great Grandfather's brother, John Park III (1735-1816). Mariah's husband is William Boian, Sr. (1805-1893. Their graves are on the Boian Farm in Estill County (Dug Hill Rd.). - My Mother as Little Girl in Dunbar, WV (1930s) (53 KB)
My Mother, Frances Theresa Bell (1930-) in 1930s (Pine Grove, WV). Her Grandma Theresa Padovini has her hands on Mom's little shoulders. Mom's parents , Samuel Bell and Angela Padovini are to her right; Mom's Uncle Joe, Jr.(her mother's younger brother)with the guitar is to her immediate left; Mom's sister, Betty Jean, is kneeling at the front (far right). Mom's Aunt Elva (Angela's sister) and Uncle Jimmy Cammeresi are standing at the left rear. Picture was taken while Mom was visiting her maternal grandparents in Dunbar, PA. Mom was living in Pine Grove, WV at the time. - 3rd Great Aunt, Tabitha Park Cobb (1831-1926) (75 KB)
Picture graciously donated by cousin, Roger Deane of Atlanta, GA. Tabitha (small elderly woman at center) was the sister to my 3rd Great Grandmother, Mary Minerva Park (1822-1909) and Granddaughter of my 5th Great Grandparents, Eb Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills(1752-1826). Picture appears to have been taken at Cobb Hill in 1925 when Tabitha was 94 years old.Tabitha and sister, Eliza married the same man, Jesse Cobb, Jr., brother to my 3rd Great Grandfather, Richard Cobb, Sr. So, what you have is three sisters, Mary Minerva, Eliza and Tabitha, marrying two brothers, Jesse Cobb, Jr. and Richard Cobb, Sr. All three of these women are the daughter of Col. Eli Park (Son of Eb Park, Sr.)and Winnaford Dillingham (Sister, Rhoda is the mother to Capt John Wilson of Estill Co., KY--Hero of Battle of Lookout Mt., TN during the Civil War. - Noah Park(1743-1815) & Anna Reed (1749-1833)Graves (100 KB)
Descendant, Dr. James Hinson of Salisbury, NC at gravesite of Noah Park (Brother to Eb Park, Sr.1747-1839), my 5th Great Grandfather and Noah's wife, Anna Reed (March 1999). Graves are locatedin Rowan County on Noah Park's Farm (River Rd.) in a wooded area which would have been the edge ofthe crop line. Noah's stone lays to the left, while Anna's is still intact in the ground to the right. Both graves, near Cedar Creek, will be lost forever, if not marked properly. Dr. Hinson is the owner of the land and descends from Noah through his daughter, Elizabeth. My father, William Henry Park I and I were last there on Sunday, 17 June 2001 (Father's Day). - Homestead of John Bush Simpson (1834-1903) (18 KB)
Home of John Bush Simpson (1834-1903) and Allie Gordon(1845-1900), my 2d Great Grandparents.John and Allie had 14 children, including Eleanor "Ella" Gibson Simpson, my Great Grandmother (1865-1944) and her husband, William Henry Park I (1860-1932)who are both buried in Richmond Cemetery in Richmond, KY. Ella Gibson Simpson's nieces, Gladys Simpson-Plummer (b. 1915) and Florence "Louise" Simpson-Williams (b. 1913) are still living today in this house!They are very gracious, kind and energetic ladies. - Mother as Small Girl with Neighborhood Friend (22 KB)
Mother, Frances Theresa Park (1930-) in Pine Grove, WV in 1930s...isn't she cute?!I love you, Mom. - 4GGP John Park & Polly Peeler Farm- Cemetery (87 KB)
Located in the trees atop the knoll in the foreground, are the 10 graves that we firmly believe are John, Polly and some of their slaves, which sat behind their house which was located just below in the foothills of Wilson Mountain and on the West side of Station Camp Creek where Jones Branch comes in. Brother Asa, lived about one mile away back up Jones Branch in Wagersville. From the knoll, we enjoyed a beautiful, centered view of the entire Park Farm. Read about this Discovery 2002 (Research Summary) and Supplement (Quinn Family) in the related files area of this web page. - Cartmel Priory Church, England (Founded 1188) (310 KB)
My 8th Great Grandfather, Dr. Roger Parke, Sr. was baptized here on 25 June 1648. This beautiful church was founded in 1188 and is still active today in Lancashire County, England (Northern England). Roger Parke migrated to Hopewell, NJ in 1682 with William Penn to begin my line in America. From there, descendants of Roger and wife, Ann Pattison, migrated to Frederick and Hampshire Counties VA(1735); Rowan Co., NC(1772); and into Madison, KY(1796). Picture graciously provided by Cecilia Kasberg-Parke as obtained from her wonderful book "Descendants of Roger Parke, Immigrant -1648-1739". - Niece to My Great Grandmother - Gladys Simpson (21 KB)
Gladys Simpson-Plummer (b. 1915) in red dress, shown at the home of her Grandparents, John Bush Simpson (1834-1903) and Allie Gordon Jones (1845-1900)in Richmond, KY. Left to right, my Aunt, Martha Park-Lamb; Gladys Simpson; my father, William H. Park II (b. 1930); and myself, William "Doug" Park (b. 1959). My mother, Frances Theresa Bell-Park was taking this picture of us. John Bush Simpson and Allie Gordon Jones are buried in the front yard of this home as are many of their children. - Winifred Park - Daughter of Rhoda Dillingham (29 KB)
Picture graciously donated by Billy Park Arvin of Lexington, KY. Winifred Park (1813-1896),daughter of my 4th Great Aunt, Rhoda Dillingham & Solomon Park (Son of John Park III of Hampshire Co., VA/WV, brother to my 5th GGF). Winifred "Winney" married Turner Park (son of my 4th Great Uncle, Eb Park, Jr. and Katurah Turner). Winifred is also the sister of Mariah Park (m. William Boian, Sr.) and half-sister to Capt John Wilson (8th Ky Rgt) by way of her mother's (Rhoda Dillingham Park)2nd marriage to Eb Wilson. Winifred's 2nd husband late in life was Jonah Park (1806-1884), my 3rd Great Grandfather! Winifred Park is buried in Daniels Cemetery in Estill Co., KY off of Rt. 89. Winney and Mariah's sister, Malinda married Hiram Park, son of Asa Park--Grandson to Eb Park, Sr. and Tabitha Mills (My 5th GGPs). - Found!Grave of Nathan Parkes II (1778-1814) (57 KB)
Picture of Nathan Parkes tombstone with shaving cream to bring out the letters (later washed off). Wife's stone was next to his (Magaret "Peggy" White). Tombstone read: "In Memory of Nathan Parkes, Born 24 Feb 1778, Died 29 Mar 1814". Buried at: Hwy 89/Wagersville Rd., Old Jonah Wagers Farm. Nathan II's father, Charles Parke's (m. Catherine Pew)Great Uncle is JohnParke I, my 7th Great Grandfather. Nathan II descends from John's brother, Roger Parke, Jr. 1684-1755.Nathan II further descends from Roger Jr.'s son, Nathan I).This line, as did mine, came from Hunterdon County, NJ via Frederick Co., VA (now Hampshire Co., WV) through Rowan County, NC.Nathan (II), who is buried on Jonah Wager's Farm, was the son of Charles Park (1747- 1820) and Catherine Pew (1745- 1831).The mother of Jonah Wagers' who owned the farm was Eliza Park, the sister to my 2d Great Grandfather, John McMonigle Park. Nathan Parkes' line is generally associated with my ancestral cousins in Western Madison Co., KY (near Red House, KY). On the other hand, most of my direct-line ancestors lived in Eastern Madison Co. near Drowning Creek and Estill County along Station Camp Creek close to present-day Wagersville, KY. Thus, it was unusual to find Nathan II in the Eastern part of Madison County vice the West.I was thrilled though, with this find which provides yet another link to my NJ ancestors, beginning with my 8th Great Grandparents, Dr. Roger Park, Sr. and wife, Ann Pattison who arrived in NJ in 1682. Special thanks goes to my cousin, Gary Estes of Irvine, KY for finding this grave and taking this and other photographs of it. - Discovery 2000 Pioneer Team on Eli Park Farm! (79 KB)
Myself with the walking stick; Dwight "DogMan" and Explorer Extraordinaire, Gary Estes of Irvine (wife, Joretta). My father, William H. Park II took this picture. - My Great Grandma, Giovianni "Jane" Colatch (71 KB)
My Mother, Frances T. Bell-Park's (1932-) Grandmother, (Fraternal), Giovianni "Jane" Colatch. - Armilda Park - of Winifred & Turner Park (103 KB)
Picture graciously donated by Billy Park Arvin of Lexington, KY. Granddaughter of Rhoda Dillingham Park (maternal) and Eb Park, Jr. (fraternal). Great Granddaughter of Eb Park, Sr. and Tabitha Mills (my 5th GGPs). - G. Washington Survey - My 7th GGF, John Parke I (120 KB)
Survey found in George Washington's Survey book, in his handwriting, for land belonging to my 7th Great Grandfather, John Park I (1674-1757) in Frederick County, VA (land now sits in Hampshire County, WV) near the Capon River (Capon Bridge, WV).Dated 31 Mar 1750. - Rev. Edward Bell (My Uncle)w/ Pope John Paul! (27 KB)
My Mother's Brother, Rev. Edward Bell (Catholic), Pastor of St. Margaret Mary's Parish, Parkersburg, WV, meeting with the Pope in Rome! Uncle Ed is a wonderful human being and gifted, theological scholar. - Brandon & Brittany Park With Lauren Long (287 KB)
Picture of our oldest son and daughter, Brandon Park (21), Brittany Park (19); and their double-cousin, Lauren Long (Center)taken in August 2005. Lauren's father is my wife's brother. - John Park, Jr. (1818-1903) - Son of 4th GGPs (108 KB)
Photo courtesy of Billy Park Arvine of Lexington, KY (E.C. Park's Estill County History book). John Park, Jr.(1818-1903), son of John Park, Sr. (1773-1828) & Polly Peeler (1774-1851), my 4th Great Grandparents. John, Jr. married Louisa Frances Hume (1820-1894) on 5 Nov 1840. Both John, Jr. and Louisa are buried in Richmond Cemetery in Madison County, KY with many of their children. - 2d G. Washington Survey - My 7GGF, John Parke I (120 KB)
Survey dated 11 Apr 1750 for land near the Capon River in present-day hampshire County, WV. Written in George Washington's actual handwriting! John I is the Grandfather to my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) who migrated to Rowan Co., NC followed by Madison County, KY. - Our Youngest Daughter, Bryanna Park (2005) (54 KB)
Photo taken in 2005. - Josiah Park (1842-1896) - Grandson of My 5GGP (93 KB)
Josiah Park is the son of Isham Park and Dianah Benton of Estill Co., KY.Isham is the son of my 4th Great Uncle and Aunt, Asa Park and wife, Susannah. Asa is the son to my 5GGPs, Eb Park, Sr.(1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826). Josiah fought in the Civil War with the 8th KY Regiment. His mother's (Dianah Benton)brother, Elihu Park Benton married Amanda Covington, Great Granddaughter of my 4th GGPs, John Park (1773-1828) and Polly Peeler (1774-1851) through their daughter, Charity Park m. Henry H. Dillingham (brother to my 4th Great Aunt, Rhoda Dillingham Park-Wilson, mother to Capt John Wilson!)and Granddaughter, Paulina Dillingham m. Milton C. Covington. Elihu and Dianah's sister, Polly Benton, m. Joseph Scrivner, son of Mary Park (daughter to my 5th GGPs)and John Scrivner, Sr. (1782-1850). So, as you can see, there are many connections to my Park Family through Josiah, his mother and her brother and sister. Josiah's grave can be found near Jinks, KY in Miller Cemetery leaning up against a cherry tree. His Uncle, Elihu Park Benton m. Amanda Covington are buried in Eastern Madison County, KY at Red Hill Cemetery (near Panola) as are Charity Park and Henry H. Dillingham. Confusing, I know, read slow and concentrate (smile). It makes sense to me! - Asa Park Homestead in Wagersville, KY (64 KB)
This is a June 2000 picture of the homestead belonging to my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park's (1747-1839) son, Asa Park--a renowned artist of his time. Oil was struck on this Estill County land. Asa, his wife, Susanna and daughter, Rebbeca are buried on the first 100 acres of this once 1,000 acre tract located near Middle Fork of Station Camp Creek near where Eb, Sr. and Tabitha Mills lived for over 20 years until they moved in with their son, Eli Park in Eastern Madison County near Drowning Creek. My cousin and good friend, Kay Philpot, is a descendant of Asa.This picture is dedicated to Kay and her family with love and prayers. - Our Youngest Son, Brayden Park (2005) (45 KB)
Taken in 2005. - 1st KY Homestead of 4th Great Grandparents Cobb (64 KB)
First homestead of Hon. Jesse Cobb, Sr. (1769-1836) and Edith Oldham (died 3 weeks after Jesse on 23 June 1836) who arrived from Caswell County, NC in 1795 and built this structure, once a log cabin.This homestead is located near the Kentucky River in Estill County which surrounds it on the Cobb Farm on 3 sides. Steamboats and wagon trains could be seen from it's windows as written in ancestral diaries of descendants of my 4th Great Grandparents. Jesse Cobb, Sr. served in the KY State Legislature in Frankfort. - Parents & Vintage VW at Belair Mansion (1 KB)
My father, William H. Park II and mother, Frances T. Bell at Historic Belair Mansion in Bowie, MD with Dad's prized 1966 Vintage VW Bug on Sat., Aug 19, 2006. His rare VW has been featured in parades & car shows and is an entertaining conversation piece with VW enthusiasts everywhere! The Belair Mansion represents Bowie’s earliest history (circa 1745), the beautiful five-part Georgian plantation house of Samuel Ogle, Provincial Governor of Maryland. Enlarged in 1914 by the NY archit. firm, Delano and Aldrich, the Mansion was the home of Wm. Woodward, famous horseman in the first half of the 20th century. Restored to reflect his 250-year old legacy, the Mansion is listed on the Natl Register of Historic Places. It is located at 12207 Tulip Grove Drive; open Wed. through Sun. from noon - 4 p.m., and for groups of 10 or more by appointment. A donation is requested at the door. The Belair Stable Museum nearby was owned and operated by William Woodward. Belair Stable was part of the famous "Belair Stud," one of the premier racing stables in the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. Belair Stable was home to Gallant Fox and Omaha, father and son horses that won the Triple Crown, to Nashua, who was "Horse of the Year" in 1955, as well as to many other well-known race horses. Until its closing in 1957, Belair was the oldest continually operated horse farm in the United States, where horses were raised for racing purposes. Its history extends over two hundred fifty years. The Stable has been restored and is open as a museum. Heritage Day, a festival celebrating the history of Bowie, is held at the Stable as well as the other two city museums. The Stable is located at 2835 Belair Drive.It is open free of charge to the public year round, Wed. - Sun. noon - 4 p.m. The Stable is accessible to people with disabilities. Like the Belair Mansion, the Stable is supported by the Friends of Belair Estate. For more information, call 301-809-3089. (Picture taken and dona - My Father, William H. Park II and Mildred Cobb (66 KB)
Picture taken on the Cobb Farm in Estill County in June 2000 with Jesse Cobb, Sr. (4th GGF) descendant, Mildred Wolfinbarger-Cobb of Irvine, KY. It is a wonderful tribute to the Park-Cobb lines of my family which began many generations ago when they first joined. This picture captures the goodness, wisdom and character of both my father and Mildred. It is set in an ancient family place as this Cobb matriarch and Park patriarch discuss family history! - Beautiful Nieces, Meagan & Haley Park (97 KB)
My brother, David E. Park and wife, Carol Hall's daughters, Meagan(Right)& Haley Park (Left). This photo was taken in August 2006 by my brother who is a talented photographer (See link to some of his great work on this web page below in the links section). I call my nieces the Italian Princess (Meagan) & Irish Queen (Haley). I am proud of them both and we love them dearly. - Veronica (Park) & Tom Massie Family (Sister) (47 KB)
Shown are Sister, Veronica (Park) & Husband, Tom Massie and children, Lauren (Long)(18 years of age--daughter by way of sister's 1st marriage to my wife's brother, Jeff Long); Wyatt (13 years old on 28 Dec 2006) and Makayla Massie (8) of Roseland, VA as taken Christmas 2006. - NEW! - Mom & Dad's 50th Wedding Anniversary! (108 KB)
My mother and father, William H. Park & Frances Bell will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on 31 August 2007! - My 5th Great Grandfather's Son, Colonel Eli Park (73 KB)
My 4th Great Uncle and Aunt, Eli Park (1787-1858) and Winnaford Dillingham (1795-1854)of Madison County, KY. Picture provided by my cousin and Eli Park descendant, Roger Deane. - Long, Lost Graves of My 3rd Great Grandparents! (89 KB)
My Father, William H. Park II (1930- ) after we discovered the graves of Jonah Park (1806-1884) and Malinda McMonigle (1810-1862)in Madison County, KY in June of 1999. - Minerva "Mary" Park-Cobb (1822-1909) (154 KB)
Minerva "Mary" Park (1822-1909) is my maternal 3rd Great Grandmother and the daughter to my 4th Great Uncle, Eli Park (1787-1858), son of Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826), my fraternal 5th Great Grandparents! Pictured with Mary is her daughter (sitting in black dress), Betty Cobb-McKinney, unidentified great grandchild and probably Betty's daughter standing in the middle. My Park and Cobb Families are very closely aligned through many marriages and lived primarily in Lincoln and Estill Counties in KY. This picture was graciously provided to me by Eli Park descendant, Roger Deane of Atlanta, GA. Mary witnessed the death of my 5th Great Grandmother at almost 4 years of age and remembered the night for the rest of her natural life as evidenced by the diary entry I found in Eastern Kentucky University's Library in Richmond in June 2000. It was Mary's brief, but very meaningful account that provided the clue as to where my 5th Great Grandparents, Eb and Tab, died and were buried. As it turned out, both passed away while living out their last years with son, Eli Park and wife, Winnaford Dillingham in Eastern Madison County, KY. - 4th Great Grandparents Found Deep in Woods of KY! (103 KB)
Myself, Doug Park at the gravesite of my maternal 4th Great Grandparents, Jesse Cobb, Sr. (1769-1836) and wife, Edith Oldham (1773-1836)--2.5 miles deep in the woods near the Kentucky River! Lost after generations, found in June 1999! - Castle Cobb Photo - Home to My 3rd GGPs! (200 KB)
This was the home of my 3rd Great Grandparents, Mary Minerva Park (1822-1909) and Richard Cobb, Sr. (1818-1900). This large home, which was always filled with friends, neighbors and family, was located in the beautiful countryside of Lincoln County, KY near Hanging Fork Creek Creek.Photo was taken in the late 1800s. - John Parke III of Hampshire Co., WV (1735-1816) (66 KB)
Brother to my 5th Great Grandfather Ebenezer Park (1747-1839). Picture taken of portrait discovered hanging in deserted Park homestead (log cabin)in Hampshire Co., WV in Nov 1998! - Smith Chapel near Clarksburg, WV (95 KB)
Place of worship for Smith Family near Clarksburg, WV - Descendants of my 5th Great Aunt, Ann Abigail Parke and her husband, James Smith (Great Nephew to my 7th Great Grandmother, Sarah Smith from Hopewell, NJ). Sarah was born in Farsley, West Riding, Yorkshire Co., England on 28 Nov 1675 to Pioneer Andrew Smith I (Born 1640 in Farsley, England) and Sarah Foster. Her husband, my 7th Great Grandfather, was John Parke I, born 1674 in Northumberland Co., England. James Smith and Ann Parke's son, Aaron Smith, was a Revolutionary War Hero who served as an Electoral College member and helped to vote President George Washington into Office.Aaron was in possession of a Tomahawk Land Grant for 400 acres in the Simpson Creek area. Ann Parke is the sister, to my 4-state Pioneer 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) who died in Madison County, KY.Ebenezer's wife, Tabitha Mills, preceded him in death in 1826. Eb and Tabitha's graves were found by my father and I after an extensive 2-year search on 30 June 2000 in the woods along Drowning Creek in Eastern Madison County! The present Smith Chapel was built on the foundation of the previous church by Charles Ashby Short in 1905-06.The Sunday School rooms to the left and the basement were added in the 1960s, when the foundation stones began deteriorating.This photo was taken on 21 June 2000, by my parents, William H. Park II (1930-) and Frances T. Bell-Park (1932- ). - Castle Cobb Newspaper Picture (1972)- 3GGP Home (262 KB)
Castle Cobb Photo - My 3rd Great Grandparents, Mary Minerva Park (1822-1909) and Richard Cobb, Sr. lived here in the 1800s. This home was located near Hanging Fork Creek in Lincoln County, KY. - John Parke III's Wife, Susanna Elrod of Maryland (101 KB)
Sister-In-Law to my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) - Homestead of Benjamin Durham (My 4GGF) (66 KB)
Benjamin Durham Homestead (1788-1847) as it looks present-day in Perryville, KY. It is owned by desc. Carolyn Durham and her son, Johnny. Benjamin's wife was Margaret Robinson (1776-1854). Benjamin is the father to Milton Jameson Durham (1824-1911), my 3rd GGF and 3-term Congressman and first head of the U.S. Treasury.My Grandmother, Elveree "Dolly" Durham (1911-1989) was Milton's Great Granddaughter. - History of Castle Cobb Farm Article (394 KB)
Article was written by the late historian, Minerva Baughman McAllister-Jett in 1972. Describes land and farm belonging to my 3rd Great Grandparents, Richard Cobb, Sr. (1818-1900) and Mary MinervaPark(1822-1909) in Lincoln County, KY near Hanging Fork Creek--site of Castle Cobb, their beautifulhomestead. Castle Cobb was always a bey of activity, filled with laughter of family, friends, and neighbors who were always welcomed there with open arms. I wish I could have been there. - John Parke III and Susanna Elrod Ancient Cemetery (76 KB)
My youngest daughter, Bryanna Noelle Park next to John Parke III and Susanna Elrod tombstone in October 1998 in Park Valley located between Romney and Capon Bridge, WV. John III is the older brother to my 5th Great Grandfather and 4-state Pioneer, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839). - Jersey Baptist Church, Davidson Co., NC (127 KB)
Church founded in mid-1700s where Park ancestors from NJ attended church in Jersey Settlement. First Pastor, Rev. John Gano baptized George Washington.My 7th Great Grandmother, SarahSmith's(1675-1759) brother, Thomas Smith, was one of Jersey Baptist's founding members. Located in Lexington, NC, this beautful old brick church has a school and ancient cemetery. - Portrait of My 5GGF John Durham (1742-1817) (47 KB)
Portrait of my 5GGF John Durham (1742-1817) which can be found in the Benjamin Durham Homestead in Perryville, KY (owner Carolyn Durham). The Durham line is through my father's mother--Elveree Collins (Dolly) Durham-Park (1911-1989) of Danville, KY. - Old John Park Cemetery (Estill Co., KY) (67 KB)
Discovery 2002! John Park (1773-1828) & Polly Peeler (1774-1851)Family Cemetery on their farm along Station Camp Creek in Estill Co., KY. This Cemetery, discovered on Sun., 24 April 2002, is the final resting place of my 4th Great Grandparents and some of their slaves. John was the oldest son of my 5th GGPs, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826). Cemetery was found in foothills along the western side of Station Camp Creek, offering a beautifully scenic view of the Park Farm where John and Polly resided for over 40 years during the 1800s. There were 10 stones in this cemetery. It is the only burial ground on the John Park Farm. John was Sheriff of Estill Co., 1825-1826 and died tragically without a will. Would like to know cause of death, if anyone knows. - Mother, Aunt and Cobb Descendants on Cobb Farm (55 KB)
Taken in June 2000 on the Cobb Farm, the 4-wheel drive truck represented the only sane way to get on to the Ancient Cobb Farm, where the Cobb Family Cemetery was also located in the woods near the Kentucky River. My Aunt, Martha Park-Lamb, is in the blue and my mother, Frances T. Bell-Park, is at the right front of the picture. It meant a lot to have my Mom with us sharing this historical family experience in Kentucky with my father and I. What impressed me too...despite her horrible fear of snakes, Mom had the courage to venture into some of the most remote, snake-infested areas we have ever set foot in. God protected us. - 3GGF, Edmond B. Russell - Danville, KY (47 KB)
GREAT GRANDFATHER to my father's Mom born 28 Oct 1820 (nearly 182 years ago).Edmond's daughter is Martha Russell Durham (d. 1886), the mother of Milton J. Durham--FATHER to Dad's Mom. Edmond was a noted architect of beautiful, trend-setting buildings in the Danville, KY area (Boyle County). Edmond's ancestors are from Scotland. Picture provided by my Aunt, Martha Park-Lamb of Danville, KY. - Cricket Cousins Article - 5 Nov 99 (171 KB)
Article on a Cousin I Discovered at Work! - Portrait of Hon. Milton Jameson Durham (1824-1911) (71 KB)
Portrait of my 3GGF that hangs in the Benjamin Durham Homestead in Perryville, KY (owner: Carolyn Durham). Photo taken by my Aunt, Martha Park-Lamb of Danville, KY. - Paranormal Experience: "Lighting the Way" Picture! (92 KB)
See the text describing this experience below in related files. Notice the "spotlight" effect at the base of the stone. The light was so bright, there was a hue off of my face and the ledger notebook I was writing on was lost in the light. My mother stands as smiles in amazement. This took place in the Old Cobb Farm Cemetery near the Kentucky River in Estill County. My Aunt, Martha Park-Lamb of Danville, KY alertly snapped this picture. - John Wesley Park Family (Late 1800s) (126 KB)
John Wesley Park and his wife, Sarah Jacobs with children, including eventual Park Family Historian (Baby on mother's lap), Nell Marshall Park (Wrote book, Park Family of Kentucky). John Wesley is the son of Simpson Park and grandson of John Park (1773-1828) and Polly Peeler(1774-1851), my 4th Great Grandparents of Estill County, Kentucky. John Wesley's father, Simpson, is the brother of my 3rd Great Grandfather, Jonah Park (1806-1884), making Jonah an Uncle to John Wesley. Nell married Robert Richardson Gum, who is also descended from my 4th Great Grandparents through their daughter, Barbara Park who was married to John Richardson!A special thanks to cousin, ELEANOR SPEAKER of Liberty, Missouri for donating this wonderful picture! - John Durham (1742-1817) Methodist Church Pioneer (52 KB)
Methodist historical marker affixed to the Durham Homestead there near Perryville, KY. John came to KY from Mecklenburg Co., VA in 1782, 15 years before my fraternal 5GGF Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and Family did from Rowan Co., NC. John founded the first Methodist Church east of the Alleghany Mountains and was a Revolutionary War hero and Grandfather to Congressman Milton Jameson Durham (1824-1911), my 3GGF. John's wife was Martha Bugg (1747-1819). - Joseph Wagers (Mourning Park)& Rose Shepherd (23 KB)
Joseph Wagers was the son of James A. Wagers and Mourning Park (daughter of Asa Park, Eb Park, Sr.'s son) making him Asa's Grandson and Eb's Great Grandson!! Sgt Joseph Wagers (s/o James Anderson Wagers, Sr. and Mourning Park) b. Mar 1, 1838, Estill Co. KY, d. Apr. 13, 1888, Frankfort, KY m. Roseline Pinkerton Shepherd Jul 30, 1868 in Irvine, Estill Co. KY (she was born Dec 7, 1842 and died Apr 13, 1941!). Rose was the daughter of Andrew & Cynthia Ann Moore Shepherd.Joseph & Rose are buried at the Richmond Cemetary, Richmond, Madison Co. KY.Joseph & Rose had 5 children:1.Andrew Hayden Wagers (1870-1935) m. Margaret Collins 1903 (my great grandparents)2. Mona "Helen" Wagers (1873-1961) m. George Stevenson 18953. Annie Losie Wagers (1876-1919) m. Tom King4. Joseph James Wagers ( 1880-1949) m. Nora A. Williams 19115. Harry Shepherd Wagers (1883-1946) m. Gladys Anita Oren 1916.Most notably, Joseph was among the 6 men who bravely erected the U.S. flag up on Lookout Mountain during the Civil War with Rhoda Dillingham-Park's son, Capt John Wilson. John and James were members of the 8th Volunteer Kentucky Regiment. This information was provided by Cousin Kay Philpot--Joseph Wagers and Rosaline Pinkerton Shepherd are her 3rd Great Grandparents. - John McMonigle Park (1827-1901) Homestead (250 KB)
Home to my 2nd Great Grandparents, John McMonigle Park (1827-1901) and Martha Cobb (1835-1911),in Irvine, KY (Estill Co.). They were the parents of William Henry Park I (My Dad's Grandfather), Walter Francis Park, & Sallie (Quinn). Family history has it that John hid burlap sacks of corn in the house ceiling rafters and their horses in the woods nearby, as Civil War soldiers made it a habit of stopping by and taking both. One day, Martha Cobb heard the ceiling creaking over her daughter Sallie's crib and quickly picked up the baby and left the room. Moments later the ceiling came crashing down and crushed the now empty crib! True story passed down told to Sallie's Granddaughter and my cousin, Wilda Quinn-Cooper of Taylorsville, IL, now 81 years old. Martha Cobb can be seen in dark dress sitting in front of the house with daughter, Sallie (in white dress), standing beside her. I believe gentleman on right side of the house is one of the slaves. This picture was graciously donated by Wilda. By the way, if you believe in the paranormal, my oldest son, Brandon, saw John McMonigle Park's ghost on 7 Dec 2000 (John's 173rd birthday) in our home in Fayetteville, NC....read about this paranormal experience, also on this page. - George Washington Survey Book Parke Entry - 1752! (129 KB)
Look closely, here is a page from young, George Washington's survey book from Frederick County, VAin 1752 for two land tracts at 200 acres each for John Parke I (My 7th Great Grandfather).This land is located along the Capon River in Capon Bridge, WV (Hampshire County, WV). On the northern end of this tract lies what is left of John's family burial site, having been overrun by cattle on what today is a tennant farm owned by Burzie Baker.John and his wife, Sarah Smith, came to Jersey Mountain and then Capon Bridge in 1735 from Hopewell, NJ where his father (my 8th Great Grandfather), Roger Parke, Sr. migrated from Cumberland Coounty, England in 1682 with his wife, Ann Pattison. The referral to "Roger's Road" in Washington's survey entry probably belonged to Roger Parke, Jr., son of John I who lived on this same land tract. I am in possession of a copy of Roger Parke, Jr.'s last will and testament from the early 1770s in what was then Hampshire County in the Colony of Virginia as it is refered to in Roger's will. I found this picture of Washington's survey in his archives online at the Library of Congress. Washington is reportedly to have surveyed this land for John and Sarah in return for their support in building an area road there--possibly the one refered to as "Roger's Rd." in his survey book. - Baby Pic - My Mother and I in 1959; Look Closely! (18 KB)
My mother, Frances Theresa Bell-Park (born 1932)and I at the home of her parents in Morgantown, WV in 1959. - 54th Model High School Reunion, Richmond KY (73 KB)
My father's (William Henry Park II)54th Model High School Reunion, Class of 1948 (EKU Campus), as pictured in May 2002. Pictured (Ladies), L-R are: Dorothy Parrish Parke; Norma Jean Rice Baker; Jean Hale Luxon; Martha Rose Hammond Barton; Elizabeth Park Griffin; & Mary Douglas Cornelison Terrase. Men (L-R) are: Robert Nelson Grise; Carl Eversole; Jule Smith; Fred Elder Day; My father, William Henry Park II; George Hunt Hembree; & Coleman Boyd Witt. As Dad has said on multiple occasions in recent months--"more and more I realize that these classmates and friends are also "cousins", flesh and blood". Picture provided to me by my father. What a fine looking Kentucky Family they are! TIP: Be sure to slide picture to the left and right to see complete group. - Baby Pic - Home from the Hospital in 1959! (24 KB)
My Mother, Frances Theresa Bell-Park (1932- )and I in 1959. - Charles Massie (1727-1817) - DAR (558 KB)
Pictured is my brother-in-law, Thomas Shelton Massie, Jr.(b. 1962) of Roseland, VA (Nelson Co. VA) next to the grave of his 5th GGF, Charles Massie(1727-1817)located in Nelson Co, VA on his ancestor's Spring Valley Farm just below Massie's Mountain. Also shown is the historical DAR plate at the site of Charles' tombstone. Charles, a Revolutionary War Veteran and wife, Mary Davis' son, Thomas Massie later went to Eastern Kentucky (searching census records). Charles was loved by President Thomas Jefferson for the delicious apple cider he regularly provided to our beloved leader and his family. A plaque at Jefferson's Monticello home is a testament to Charles Massie's tasty contributions. This prestigious Massie line originated in Cheshire, England.They entered Virginia in 1687 (Charles' Grandfather, Peter Massie, 1639-1719 and wife, Penelope Ashley Cooper). Many were Statesmen and other well-respected, prominent citizens who helped to form our great nation. My brother-in-law is the 7th generation to live in this beautiful area of Virginia. He is married to my sister, Veronica Lynn Park. They have 2 children together. - Baby Pic - Me in June 1959 (16 KB)
Me: William Douglas Park (1959- ) - Ann Eliza Richardson (1838-1925) (283 KB)
Picture of Ann Eliza Richardson, niece to my 3rd GGF, Jonah Park (1806-1884)and Granddaughter of my 4th GGPs, John Park (1773-1828) and Polly Peeler (1774-1851). Anna is the daughter of Barbara Park (1799-1873)m. John Richardson, Jr. (1792-1875). Anna married David Park who is the son of Winney Park (Rhoda Dillingham & Solomon Park's Daughter) m. Turner Park (Eb Park Jr's son). Picture graciously donated to me by Anna's 2GGD, Twila Ragan-Bailey of Missouri. - David Park, Husband of Ann Eliza Richardson (110 KB)
You are looking into the eyes of David Park--the son of Winney Park (Rhoda Dillingham's Daughter) and Turner Park (Eb Park, Jr.'s son).Thus, hisGrandparents were Eb Park, Jr. & Katurah Turner and Rhoda Dillingham & Solomon Park.He is the Great Grandson of Eb Park, Sr. and Tabitha Mills.Pictures of Winney Park, David's mother; Armilda Park, David's sister; and Ann Eliza Richardson are also on my web page. The picture of David Park was graciously donated by his 2GGD, Twila Ragan-Bailey of Missouri. - Baby Pic - Dad and I in 1959 (20 KB)
My father, then, Army Captain William Henry Park II (1930- )and I. - Our Oldest Daughter, Brittany L. Park (2002) (269 KB)
Only 16 years old, our oldest daughter,Brittany Lynn Park, stands nearly 6-feet tall. Here is her Hurricane High School Softball Team picture (Hurricane, WV). - Baby Pic - New to the World in the Hospital (16 KB)
Me, William Douglas Park (1959- ) in San Marcos, TX with my proud Mommy, Frances Theresa Bell-Park (1932- ). - Old Park Bible from Kentucky (695 KB)
Roger Deane (Eli Park Descendant) provided this wonderful Photo of Madison County Park Bible that belonged to Eli Park (1787-1858), son of Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826), my 5th Great Grandparents. Notice their birth/death record entry in this ancient and priceless bible. - Old Park Bible - Eli Park's (1787-1858)Children (691 KB)
Courtesy of Roger Deane, Eli Park Descendant. Note: Three of Eli's daughter's married two of my maternal 4th Great Grandparents, Jesse Cobb, Sr.'s and Edith Oldham's sons. Specifically, Jesse and Edith's son, Richard Cobb, Sr. married Minerva Park (Mary)--my maternal 3rd Great Grandparents. Richard's brother, Jesse Cobb, Jr., first married Eliza Park and upon her death, Tabitha Park. Because of these maternal-fraternal side marriages between my Cobb and Park families, Eli Park is both a 4th Great Uncle and 4th Great Grandfather to me! In essence, this makes Eli and his BROTHER, John Park (m. Mary Peeler) both 4th Great Grandfathers to me--maternal and fraternal sides! Fascinating relationships!! - John Parke III and Susanna Elrod Homestead (89 KB)
Originally a log cabin (underneath wood) in present-day Hampshire County, WV.John III is an older brother to my 5th Great Grandfather, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) of Madison County, KY. I attended a Park Reunion in Hardy County, WV on 20 June 1999 at Ashbury UMC (Bean Settlement) and met many descendants of John and Susanna through their grandson, Enoch Park, who was reported to be a giant, standing nearly 7-feet tall! - My Father (center)w/ Pioneer Discovery 2000 Team (69 KB)
My Father, William H. Park II with Gary Estes (Beard)and Dwight "DogMan" on the Eli Park Farm in Madison County, KY--site of our Discovery 2000, the final burial place of my 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826). Dad is 70 years young and as sturdy and strong as a man 30 years his junior! An amazing, modern-day pioneer he is! - Eli's Son, George W. Park (92 KB)
Son of my 4th Great Uncle, Eli Park (1787-1858) and Winnaford Dillingham. - Capt John Wilson, 8th KY Vol Rgt - Company C (88 KB)
Son of my 4th Great Aunt, Rhoda Dillingham Park-Wilson of Estill County, KY. John Wilson was a Civil War hero at the Battle of Lookout Mountain in Tennesee on behalf of the Union Army.Picture can be found at the outstanding 8th Kentucky Volunteer Regiment site belonging to Civil War Enthusiast, Wayne Fielder (Link found at the bottom of this web page). - Eli Park Farm, Final Resting Place of My 5th GGP! (69 KB)
Picture taken in Eastern Madison County on the Eli Park (1787-1858) Farm. There, after two years of exhaustive research, Myself, father William H. Park II, explorer Gary Estes of Irvine, KY; and Dwight "DogMan" of Waco, KY, found the final resting place of my long, lost 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) along Drowning Creek!Eb and Tab have an estimated 45,000 descendants, many who have been looking for these famous 4-state pioneers for years! - Eli's son, Jonathan Park of Bloomington, Illinois (149 KB)
Son of Eli Park and Winnaford Dillingham, but doesn't look like either; rather, I feel that he probably looked like his Grandfather and 4-state Pioneer, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839)! - Patsy Collins - Park (94 KB)
Wife of Eli Park's son, George W. Park and Great Aunt to my Great Grandmother, Minerva Cobb-Durham (1886-1974) whose mother's (Tabitha Taylor Phelps), sister, Elveree Phelps married William J. COLLINS, Jr. William Collins, Jr.'s father, William Collins, Sr. (m. Mary Ann Bronston) is a BROTHER to Patsy Collins! - Headstones of Ebenezer Park and Tabitha Mills! (84 KB)
Headstones of my 5th Great Grandparents having been moved from under the fallen trees and forward to the to where the footstones were for picture purposes. - The Birth of My Paranormal Experiences! (1 KB)
I wanted to point out a common thread (revelation) as to the manner in which my ancestors have visited me (Mystical Touching).This has been a source of much fascination with me, after considerable reflection in recent months of all my paranormal experiences thus far (See "related files" section of this family page).And here's what I have realized....MOST IMPORTANTLY:Other than the experiences with my mother's mom, Angela--the others (experiences) all relate to the SAME FAMILY, direct-line, from "GRANDMOTHER TO GRANDCHILDREN". Each experience without exception, fell on the BIRTHDAY OF THE VISITING ANCESTOR!More specifically, Polly Peeler (Christmas Roses, 25 Dec 2002) is the mother to Jonah Park (The Baby, 3 Aug 2000).Jonah's children include John McMonigle married to Martha Cobb (7 Dec 1999)!As you may notice by virtue of the dates of the experiences, they began with the most recent generation, John McMonigle (2nd GGF), progressed next to Jonah Park (3rd GGF), and culminated with Jonah's mother, Polly Peeler (my 4GGM)--in order of most recent birth (1827) to earliest birth (1774)!Births at either end of the experience spectrum were in the month of December (John McMonigle, 7 Dec 1827 and Grandma Polly, 25 Dec 1774).And when did these experiences begin?....like dominoes lined up, after my father and I "unearthed" andre-erected Jonah Park's (my 3GGF) beautiful red-tinted, tombstone in 1999(was completely buried). The only way I found this stone is that I noticed the feeling of something hard and flat underneath my feet.As I knelt to dig with my hands, it was then that I saw the words "Jonah Park" (See Photo). It took everything my Dad and I could muster to take the 250 lb. stone out of the ground and set it up. Notice how flat to the surface Jonah's stone was (taken after moving dirt and pulling the ivy away).If I had not walked upon it, it would still be UNdiscovered today! - Baby Picture of Minerva "Mamee" Cobb, 1886-1974 (733 KB)
My Dad's Grandmother (Maternal side) - Pre-school: One of My Mother's Favorite Pictures (68 KB)
Myself, William Douglas Park (1959- ) in Stuttgart, Germany, where I attended pre-school. - John McMonegal Park (1827-1901) Family (359 KB)
Picture graciously donated by my cousin, Charlie S. Wagers, Jr. of Cincinnati. Features My 2GGPs, John McMonegal Park (1827-1901) and wife, Martha Cobb (1835-1911). Front Row (L to R)- John McMonegal Park, daughter, Sallie Park, Leonard Quinn (Sallie's Husband), and Martha Cobb. Standing - 2 sons - Walter Frances Park and My GGF, William Henry Park I (1860-1932). Thanks again to Charles and his family for donating this wonderful photograph! - Baby Pic - Maternal Grandparents and I in Dec 1959 (43 KB)
My Grandparents, Samuel Bell (1901-1967) and Angela V. Padovini (1910-1992) and I (William Douglas Park (1959- ) at their home in Morgantown, WV. I absolutely loved going there to see them! - Close-up of 5th Great Grandparent's Footstones (88 KB)
Taken on 30 June 00 at the burial site of my 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826)...we found the footstones first and then the headstones located a few short feet away under fallen cedar trees! Had Gary Estes and Dwight "DogMan" not seen the footstones, we may never have found the graves of my Madison County Pioneer 5th Great Grandparents! Way to go, Gary Estes of Irvine, KY!! - Gravestone of Asa Park, son of My 5th GGF (43 KB)
Gravestone of Asa Park, son of my 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) near his homestead in Wagersville, KY (Estill County), just off of Jones Branch. - Gravestone of Asa's wife, Susannah Park (47 KB)
Daughter-in-law to my 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park and Tabitha Mills via their son, AsaPark. This grave is found near Asa's homestead, the oldest house in Estill County, KY (built in 1807) near Wagersville along Jones Branch. Susannah is actually the daughter to Ebenezer's brother, Allen Park and wife, Elizabeth Giles. Yes, kissing cousins were Asa and Susannah. - Discovery 2000 - Head and Footstones Close-up (78 KB)
Head (moved from recovery spot under fallen cedar trees) and footstones of my 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenzer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) pictured together. These were found in Eastern Madison County after a 2-year search we call "Discovery 2000"! - Special Edition "Discovery 2000" - Eli Park Farm! (241 KB)
Commemorates the day we found Ebenezer Park (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) on the Eli Park Farm in Eastern Madison County, KY along Drowning Creek on the afternoon of Friday, 30 June 2000. - Lamb Family of Danville, KY - Christmas 2003 (215 KB)
Christmas family photo of my cousins, Mike Lamb (son of my Dad's sister, Martha Park-Lamb), his wife, Ann (Carney), and their beautiful daughter, Jennifer K. "Katie" Lamb of Danville, Kentucky. - James A. Wagers, Sr. (1800-1864) Grave Site (353 KB)
James A. Wagers, Sr. (1800-1864) grave at Brinegar-Wagers Cemetery off Rt. 89N near Wagersville, KY in Estill County. James was married to Mourning Park, granddaughter of my 5th Great Grandparents, Ebenezer Park, Sr. (1747-1839) and Tabitha Mills (1752-1826) through their son, Asa Park. Photo from 1985 as taken by my cousin, Kay Philpot, desc. of Asa and daughter, Mourning.
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