Information on William Pursley & family Generation No. 1 1. William2 Pursley (James1) was born Abt. 1842 in Enniskillen, Fermanaugh, Ireland?, and died 20 Jun 1879 in 29 Govanhill St, Govanhill, Dist. of Hutchesontown, County of Lanark, Scotland. He married Margaret Williamson 1 Jan 1869 in Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew, Scotland, daughter of George Williamson and Margaret Irvine. She was born 12 Oct 1840 in Whitehall, Parish of Stronsay, County of Orkney, Scotland, and died 30 Dec 1923 in Tampa, Hillsborough County, Florida. Notes for William Pursley: On Jan 1, 1869 according to Marriage Records of Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew, : Scotland William Pursley, age 26, a Laborer in a quarry, a bachelor, married Margaret Williamson, age 24, a Worker in Print Work, and a Spinster (Page 3, #6 of records dated January 4, 1869). ================================================================================ 1871 Census for Renfrewshire (LDS Microfilm # 0104081 "C-E") On page 40, Thorn Bank Road census #194 in the Civil Parish of Cathcart in the Village of New Cathcart: William Pursley, Head, Mar., 29, Labourer, born Ireland Margaret Pursley, Wife, Mar, 30, born Orkney, Stronsay Margaret " , Daur, 1, born Renfrewshire, Cathcart George " , Son 2 or 7 days (?), born " " Alexander Williamson, Brother-in-law, Unm, 18, Labourer, born Orkney, Stronsay Francis McErran (Sp?), Lodger, Unm, 25, Labourer, born Edinburgh ====================================================================== Phillip Pursley, great grandson, received Death record of William Pursley on April 15, 1997 from General Register Office for Scotland New register House, Edinburgh EH1 3YT Tel: 0131 -314-4451 Their Ref.#: 0566/A dated April 9, 1997. Official New Document #30436 (9th of April 1997) from original # 556 from a Register of Deaths for the District of Hutchesenterun in the County of Lanark. "William Pursley, Mason's Labourer, married to Margaret Williamson died June 20th, 1879, 6(or Oh?) 35m.Am at 29 Govanhill Street. Govanhill. He was Male of 38 years. His father was James Pursley, Farmer (deceased) and Elizabeth Pursley nee Hetherington. Cause of death was Pneumonia as certified by Robt W. Forrest, M.Q. Margaret Pursley put Her X Mark Uudiw.(Sp?) and was Present at his death. This document was registered at Glasgow on June 24, 1879 by John F(?) Mitchell, Assistant(Sp?) Registrar." Birth could be 1842 (from wedding record) or 1841 (perhaps going by nearest birthday could be 1842) from death record. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ In a message dated 98-05-03 04:51:33 EDT, you write: << Subj: Re: Gacon(Sp?)hill Street, Gacon(m?)hill Date: 98-05-03 04:51:33 EDT From: pat.jeffs@dial.pipex.com (Pat Jeffs) Reply-to: pat.jeffs@dial.pipex.com To: PPurs67@aol.com (PPurs67) Phil A few helps will be found below: ---------- these old records can sometimes be very difficult to read > consequently all my "Sp?" comments. > The following is copied from William Pursley's Death Certificate: > Official New Document #30436 (9th of April 1997) from original # 556 from > a Register of Deaths for the District of Hutchesenterun in the County of > Lanark. Hutchensonstown is pretty much in the Gorbals which you may or may not have heard of. The Gorbals were the slums of Glasgow, I'm afraid. My grandmother was born there, too. > "William Pursley, Mason's Labourer, married to Margaret Williamson died > June 20th, 1879, 6(or Oh?) 35m.Am at 29 G(?)acomhil ) Street. > Gacomhill(Sp?). Can't help you with the actual street at the moment, but probably someone else on the list can. There is a booklet of Glasgow streets old and new put out by the local family history society. See advertisement below. > He was Male of 38 years. His father was James Pursley, Farmer (deceased) > and Elizabeth Pursley nee Hetherington. Cause of death was Pneumonia as > certified by Robt W. Forrest, M.Q. Margaret Pursley put Her X Mark >Uudiw.(Sp?) and was a Widow Present at his death. This document was >registered at Glasgow on June 24, 1879 > by John F(?) Mitchell, Assistant(Sp?) Registrar." > ==== LANARK Mailing List ==== > Glasgow & West of Scotland FHS: > Unit 5 > 22 Mansfield Street > Glasgow G11 5QP > Scotland > tel: UK 0141-339 8303 (unchanged) Cheers Pat Jeffs who learned how to read writing as taught in Hutchensonstown and Rothesay as a child in Canada. ************************************************************************************ Dear Pat, Thank you so much for your very helpful information. Now that I look at the official document it all starts to become legible. Denise of the Lanark List was able to give me the correct street name - "GOVANHILL STREET, GOVANHILL, DISTRICT OF HUTCHESONTOWN." Sincerely, Phil Pursley ------------------------------------ from Gazetteer for Scotland: Govanhill Glasgow City Govanhill sits between the areas of Govan and Crosshill about 2 miles (3 km) south of Glasgow's city centre, and covers an area of 140 acres. For much of the 19th century it was a disputed residential area between these two burghs, however by 1877 it was granted burgh status and by 1891 it was annexed by Glasgow. Govanhill is characterised by the number of Victorian tenements which still stand. also: Govan Glasgow City Situated to the west of Glasgow's city centre on the north bank of the River Clyde, Govan was Scotland's fifth largest burgh (established as one in 1862), before it was incorporated into Glasgow in 1912. Its importance in Scottish history extends to the late 6th century when Constantine established a religious centre and was later buried here. The parish originally included Gorbals (which separated in the 18th century) and Partick. By the early 19th century Govan (or Meikle Govan as it was called to separate it from Little Govan or Gorbals) developed from a small village into a coal mining centre which was made possible by the deepening of the River Clyde. In the mid-19th century shipbuilding became a mainstay of the local economy, raising the population but creating an over-dependence on the industry. Today there is only shipyard left and there are many questions about its future. Many of its older buildings and streets have been destroyed but it retains some local traditions such as the annual Govan Old Fair, and the Govan Old Victualling Society, possibly the oldest co-operative society in the UK. ============================================================== Some information on possible burial sites in and around Glasgow from **Ordnance Gazatteer of Scotland 1883** "Some ancient cemeteries in the city have been converted into building ground or market places; while others at the Cathedral, St. David's, St. Mary's, Gorbals, Calton and Bridgeton still remain, but are not now important for their original purpose, but as lungs for the city." "Inside the city there were also intramural cemeteries at North Street and Main Street in Anderston, Cheapside Street in Anderston, Christchurch in Mile End, and Greendyke Street Episcopalian church, in a crypt under the United Presbyterian church in Wellington Street, and for Roman Catholics in Abercromby Street." "In a report furnished in 1869.....it was recommended that, except in very special cases, the intramural cemeteries of St. Favid's; College; North Street and Main Street, Anderston; Cheapside Street, Anderston; Calton; Bridgeton; Rutherglen Loan, Gorbals; St. Mungo's Cathedral; Abercromby Street, Roman Catholic; Christchurch, Mile End; Greendyke Street; and Wellingston Street should no longer be used. The interment in these have fallen ....... to 60 last year, ......; and now interments take place in the following extramural cemeteries:- The Necropolis, Sighthill Cemetery, the Eastern Necropolis or Janefield, the Southern Necropolis, Craigton at Paisley Road, Sandymount at Shettleston, Dalbeath at London Road, Cathcart at New Cathcart, and the Western Necropolis at Maryhill." =========================================================== Notes for Margaret Williamson: After her husband died she brought all the children to Canada (Perhaps 1883 - in letter from George Pursley to James Pursley talking about John being 6 years old when they left for Canada). She placed her children in an "orphanage(?)" (where she also cooked, cleaned, etc for their room and board) until she could get enough money together. She and the five children very likely came to the US on Sep. 9, 1890. Her son James Pursley in his Petition for Naturalization states, "I emigrated to the United States from Ontario, Canada on or about the 9 day of September anno Domini 1890, and entered in the United States at the port of Charlotte, N. Y. on the 10 day of September anno Domini 1890 on the vessel Alexandria across Lake Ontario." The family may have eventually settled in Chicago ala 1900 where three of her children were married -- Margaret, James and William. She donated (?) land for a church (Episcopalian?) in Florida. Margaret died in there while living with her sons George and John - a family story from Eugene Kenneth Pursley. She was buried on Jan 2, 1924 in Tampa, Florida. Part of this information is from the Family History Center of the Latter Day Saints, Chicago Hts, Il - LDS file AFN: 32K6-KQ. ============================================================== On May 23, 1998 Margaret's great-grandson Phillip R. Pursley received a record of her baptism which also gives her actual birthdate. It is as follows: Exract of an entry in an OLD PAROCHIAL REGISTER Registrations of Births, Deaths, and Marriages (Scotland) Act 1965, S.47 Parish of Stronsay County of Orkney Anno 1843 Williamson, Margaret lawful Daughter to George Williamson & Margaret Irvine was born on the twelfth(SP) day of October Eighteen hundred and forty, and was baptised on the thirty first day of July Eighteen hundred and forty three by the Rev-d John Simpson in presence of these witnesses Barbara Lesslie and James Irvine and several others. The above particulars are extracted from a Register of Births & Baptisms Given under the Seal of the General Registry Office, New Register House, Edinburgh on 18 May 1998 ============================================================= 1841 Census for Whitehall, Stronsay, SHI, SCT George (approximate age of 25), Fisherman along with his wife Margaret (approximate age 20) and daughter Margaret (8 months) ====================================================== 1851 Census for Whitehall -- District 6 George, Head, Mar., 35, (occupation is blank), born Zetland (old name for Shetland) Margaret, Wife, Mar., 33, born Zetland Margaret, Daur., U, 10, Scholar, born Stronsay John, Son, U, 9, born Stronsay Grace, Daur, U, 7, born Stronsay George, Son, U, 4, born Stronsay Helen, Daur, U, 2, born Stronsay ============================================================ 1861 Orkney Census (Third Enumeration Division - John Learmouth, Enumerator) Margaret, Serv., is listed as working for Robert Learmouth owner of 1173 acres, in the Parish of Stronsay. Her age is 20, General Serv., born in Stronsay, Orkney. There were 30 other workers including her brother George. ============================================================= 1871 Census for Renfrewshire (LDS Microfilm # 0104081 "C-E") On page 40, Thorn Bank Road census #194 in the Civil Parish of Cathcart in the Village of New Cathcart: William Pursley, Head, Mar., 29, Labourer, born Ireland Margaret Pursley, Wife, Mar, 30, born Orkney, Stronsay Margaret " , Daur, 1, born Renfrewshire, Cathcart George " , Son 2 or 7 days (?), born " " Alexander Williamson, Brother-in-law, Unm, 18, Labourer, born Orkney, Stronsay ============================================================== In the 1900 Census for the State of Michigan (T623 Roll #752 - Vol. 84. ED 150, Sheet 17, Line 20) Margaret and her sons George, James and John are listed as living at 119 Clark Ave, Detroit. She is the head of house, born Oct 1837, age 62 and widowed. She is the mother of 9 children with 5 now living. Her birthplace along with her parents is Scotland. The year of immigration to the US is 1886 -- 14 years in US. Her occupation is housekeeper with 0 months not employed in last year. She can read and speak English but cannot write it. Their place of residence is rented. On line 21 George, son, is listed as being born April 1873 age 27, single, born in Scotland with both parents also born there. Immigrated to US in 1886, listed as an alien. His occupation is Buffer and 5 months unemployed in last year. He can read, write and speak English. On line 22 James, son, is listed as being born Sep 1874, age 25, single, born in Scotland with both parents also born there. Immigrated to US in 1886, listed as an alien. Occupation is buffer and 0 months unemployed. He can read,. write and speak English. On line 23 John, son, is listed as being born March 1877, age 23, single, born in Scotland with both parents also born there. Immigrated to US in 1886, listed as an alien. Occupation is Photographer and 0 months unemployed. He can read,. write and speak English. ***note: It looks like John may have given information to the enumerator since his bithday is the only correct one! Also there looks like some inconsistencies with the number of children born to Margaret. ========================================================= On the 1910 US Census for the State of New York (T624 #927) for Cattaraugus County, Cattaraugus Village, Supervisor's District 20, ED 74, Sheet 9A, lines 43 and 44, dated April 21, 1910 Margaret and her grandson Douglas Pursley are found as follows: Living on Jefferson St, Cattaraugus, New York Pursley, Margaret -- Head, age 70, Widowed, 9 children born of which 5 are living, nationality Scotch (note: looks like ch has been erased), born in Scotland, both parents are Scot and born in Scotland, immigrated 1887 (or 9? - difficult to make out), speaks English, occupation is none, reads and writes, rents. Pursley, Douglas -- grandson (looks like an "ad" in small print written above grandson), age 6, born - un, parents - un, attends school ========================================================== In the 1920 Census for the State of Florida (Vol 22, ED 129, Sheet 7, Line 71 -- Pasco County) Margaret is enumerated with George and John. Her grandson Douglas is in the Army. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Florida 1920 Census on Microfilm T625 Roll #224 -- Fourteenth Census of the United States taken Jan. 23, 1920, Pasco County, Precinct 8, the town of Elfers(Sp?), Supervisors Dist 41, ED 129, Sheet 7B, starting on line 69. Pursley, George -- Head -- owner -- male, white, age 48, single, immigrated to US in 1881, Alien, can read and write, born Scotland, mother tongue is English, father and mother born in Scotland both mother tongues English, trade is Farmer, type of farm is Orange(sp?), is the Employer Pursley, Margaret -- Mother -- female, white, age 82, widowed, immigrated 1881, alien, both parents born Scotland and her and parents' native tongue is English Pursley, John -- Brother -- male, white, age 42, single, info same as George, occupation listed as Partner ==================================================== A Certificate of Death for Margaret Pursley was received on Dec 15, 1997 by Phillip Pursley from the Bureau of Vital Statistics, State Board of Health, State of Florida - File No. 14683, Register No. 315 1. PLACE OF DEATH - Hillsborough County Prec. - Sulphur Springs Tampa, Florida 2. FULL NAME - Margaret Pursley (a) Residence - Sulphur Springs, Fla Length of residence 1 yr. 4 mos. 3. SEX - Female 4. COLOR OR RACE - white 5. Marital - Widow 6. DATE OF BIRTH - Oct 12, 1842 7. AGE - 81 yrs 8. OCCUPATION - None 9. BIRTHPLACE - Scotland 10. NAME OF FATHER - Geo. Williamson 11. BIRTHPLACE OF FATHER - Scotland 12. MAIDEN NAME OF MOTHER - Margaret Irving (actual spelling from certificate as made out by her son George) 13. BIRTHPLACE OF MOTHER - Scotland 14. INFORMANT - George Pursley 15. Filed - Dec. 31, 1923 M.B. Moffatt, Registrar 16. DATE OF DEATH - Dec 30th, 1923 17. I HEREBY CERTIFY, That I attended deceased from Dec..., 1923, to Dec 39, 1923, that I last saw her alive on Dec 30, 1923 and that death occurred on the date stated above, at 2 P.M. The CAUSE OF DEATH was as follows: Mirril(Sp) Ref??alation CONTRIBUTORY - Cardiac Asthma 18. Signed - E. Wake, M.D. Jan 3, 1924 Sulphur Springs 19. Place of Burial - Myrtle Hill, Tampa on Dec 31, 1923 Undertaker B. Marion Reed Dated Dec 11, 1997 #9307043 ================================================================ She is buried in Myrtle Hill Cemetery at 4207 E Lake Ave., Tampa, Florida 33610-8035 (Phone: 813 626-3161). Her burial sight was moved in 1941 (from official records) to Lot 309, Space 17, Section 5. A 1927 date shows up with a monetary figure of $280(?). In these records the name of her sons George and John show up. This information was found out by Phillip Pursley in a phone call to Myrtle Hill on Jan 7, 1998. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Children of William Pursley and Margaret Williamson are: 2 i. Margaret3 Pursley, born 24 Nov 1869 in Parish of Cathcart in the county of Renfrew Scotland; died 6 Dec 1940 in Chicago, Cook Co., IL. She married Rev. Harry J. Johnson 1902 in Chicago?; born 30 Nov 1872; died 7 Dec 1936 in Chicago, Cook Co., IL. Notes for Margaret Pursley: Birth certificate from Scotland: "Page 76 1869. Births in the Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew No. 228 Name and Surname - Margaret Pursley When and Where Born - 1869 November twenty-fourth 12h AM(?) New Cathcart Parish of Cathcart Sex - F Name, Surname, Profession of Father - William Pursley Labourer Name, and Maiden Surname of Mother - Margaret Pursley M.S. Willamson Date and Place of Marriage - 1869 January 1 Cathcart Signature and Qualification of Informant, and Residence, if out of the Home in which the Birth occured. - William Pursley (sig) Father When and Where Registered, - 1869 December 13 at Cathcart and Signature of Register - Andrew Carnduff (Sp?) Registrar ===================================================== 1871 Census for Renfrewshire (LDS Microfilm # 0104081 "C-E") On page 40, Thorn Bank Road census #194 in the Civil Parish of Cathcart in the Village of New Cathcart: William Pursley, Head, Mar., 29, Labourer, born Ireland Margaret Pursley, Wife, Mar, 30, born Orkney, Stronsay Margaret " , Daur, 1, born Renfrewshire, Cathcart George " , Son 2 or 7 days (?), born " " Alexander Williamson, Brother-in-law, Unm, 18, Labourer, born Orkney, Stronsay ============================================================ On the 1900 Census for the State of New York (T623 Roll 1075 -- Vol. 110, ED 83, Sheet 1, Line 50) Margaret was living at 245 Calver Road, Rochester, New York. She was listed as a servant in the Nathaniel Foote Family. Nathaniel (age 50) and his wife Charlotte (age 51) had 5 children living with them ranging from age 25 to 14. When this census was taken during the first week of June,1900 Margaret was listed as being born Nov. 24, 1869, age 30 (last birthday), single, born in Scotland with father born in England and mother born in Scotland; year of immigration - 1893; number of years in US - 7; naturalized - blank; occupation - nurse; months not employed in last year - 7; and reads, writes and speaks English. ***note inconsistency with father's birthplace to what her siblings have indicated. He may have been born in Ireland (Fermanagh?) but due to the anti-Irish feelings she perhaps decided to perhaps stretch the truth? Also note that 1893 is a different date than what her brother James has put down (Sep 10, 1890) in his application for citizenship. ============================================================= On Dec 6, 1909 a post card was written to Margaret from her cousin Alex Williamson who was staying with George Pursley in Cattaraugus, New York. He addresses it to Mrs. Margaret Johnson at 2873 Farrell St, Chicago, Illinois ==================================================== The 1910 US Census for the State of Illinois in Supervisor District 1, ED 269, sheet 11A, lines 3 - 6 Margaret and her family are found living at 2853 Archer Ave, Chicago. The following was found by her great nephew Phil Pursley on Jan 21, 1999 at the National Archives, 73rd & Pulaski, Chicago. Johnson, Harry -- Head, age 37, married 8 years, born in Illinois, father born in Denmark -- nationality Danish, mother born in England -- nationality English, occupation - box maker at box factory, now working, not unemployed in 1909, reads and writes, rents, ending with code 1, 0, 9, X. Margaret -- wife, age 40, married 8 years, 2 children born and 2 now living, born in Illinois (note: Could this be a mistake by the enumerator or misinformation given to the enumerator?), father born in England nationality English (see 1900 Census), mother born in Scotland nationality Scotch, speaks English, occupation - none, reads and writes. Kenneth -- son, age 5, born in Illinois, does not attend school. Cedrith -- daughter, age 2, born in Illinois. Pursley, George -- Bl (brother-in-law), age 38, single, where born is blank, father born in England - English nationality, mother Scotland -- nationality Scotch, speaks English, occupation Chef at a Hotel, not unemployed in 1909, reads and writes. ==================================================== According to a friend (Lilian Fisher) of Margaret's daughter Cedrith, Margaret loved to sing and tell stories. Lilian also relates that before Margaret married Harry Johnson she worked as a nurse and fell in love with a doctor. For some reason this didn't work out and for the rest of her life one of her favorite songs that reminded her of this lost love was "I wander through the hills, Maggie." ========================================================== Chicago Daily Tribune Saturday, December 7, 1940 DEATHS Johnson -- Margaret Johnson, late of 441 W. 79th street, beloved wife of the late Harry J. Johnson, loving mother of Mrs. Cedrith Miller, fond sister of George, James, William and John Pursley. Funeral services Saturday 2 p. m., at funeral parlor, 7653 S. Halsted street. Internment Rosehill cemetery. Stewart 7700. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ On Februry 7, 2000 her great-nephew Phil Pursley called up Rosehill Cemetery & Mausoleum, 5800 North Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, IL 60660 (773) 561-5940 and through the help of Pat Doyle was able to locate her grave along with her husband Harry's and their son Kenneth. Margaret and Harry's graves are marked with individual stones and are located at: Sec. 116, Lot 12, North half of sub 5, Graves 1 and 2. Their son Kenneth's grave is in a separate section nearby -- Sec 116, Children's Lot, Row 1, Grave 10. Kenneth died on Dec. 27, 1912 at the age of 7 years 8 months and 27 days. According to Patrick Doyle the section that they are in is for mainly people of Scandinavian Origin. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ On March 18, 2000 Phillip Pursley visited Rosehill Cemetery and found the graves of Margaret and Harry. Where their son Kenneth is burried many of the stones that mark the childrens graves have sunk below the surface. Kenneth's stone couldn't be found while his parent's stones were located approximately 75 yards west of the section he is buried in. Margaret and Harry's stones just have the years of birth and death and only their names. Their graves are located in the very northwest section of the cemetery. According to the cemetery representive I spoke to this section (116) was laid aside originally for those who died from small pox. Perhaps Kenneth died from this and his parents decided to be buried as close as they could be. The small section of 116 that Kenneth is in was designated for children. Notes for Rev. Harry J. Johnson: The 1910 US Census for the State of Illinois in Supervisor District 1, ED 269, sheet 11A, lines 3 - 6 Margaret and her family are found living at 2853 Archer Ave, Chicago. The following was found by her great nephew Phil Pursley on Jan 21, 1999 at the National Archives, 73rd & Pulaski, Chicago. Johnson, Harry -- Head, age 37, married 8 years, born in Illinois, father born in Denmark -- nationality Danish, mother born in England -- nationality English, occupation - box maker at box factory, now working, not unemployed in 1909, reads and writes, rents, ending with code 1, 0, 9, X. ============================================================== On Februry 7, 2000 her great-nephew Phil Pursley called up Rosehill Cemetery & Mausoleum, 5800 North Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, IL 60660 (773) 561-5940 and through the help of Pat Doyle was able to locate her grave along with her husband Harry's and their son Kenneth. Margaret and Harry's graves are marked with individual stones and are located at: Sec. 116, Lot 12, North half of sub 5, Graves 1 and 2. Their son Kenneth's grave is in a separate section near by -- Sec 116, Children's Lot, Row 1, Grave 10. Kenneth died on Dec. 27, 1912 at the age of 7 years 8 months and 27 days. According to Patrick Doyle the section that they are in is historic and for mainly people of Scandinavian Origin. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- When Harry died the Chicago Tribunes headlines were talking about the possible abdication of King Edward of the UK. 3 ii. George Pursley, born 2 Apr 1871 in Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew, Scotland; died 20 Feb 1958 in Orlando, Orange County, Florida. Notes for George Pursley: Occupation: A chef in restaurants (Chicago & Orlando) and on steamships. In Alice Pursley's 1935 diary his address was 8002 12th St. Tampa, Fla. He saved his young son from a cotton mouth snake at the expense of being bitten- from then on his hand always shook ( A family story from Lucille Pursley Dorgan). James Irving Pursley remembers that his Great Uncle drove a Nash Auto and that Great Uncle George showed him the unique features of its horn. Another story from Mary Lucille Pursley Dorgan is that her Uncle George always said that there was "no woman good enough for him." She also said that she always understood that he never married. George loved to write poetry. In a letter to his niece Cedrith Johnson Miller he states that he had sent in 1500 of his poems to be published. Dec. 8, 1952 lived at PO Box 1130, Orlando, Florida (from a letter he wrote his brother James). At end of his life lived with Vivian Pursley Bell where he died from a fall in the shower - a broken back. He went by George Allen Pursley. The name "Allen" is not on his birth records from Scotland. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Birth certificate from Scotland: "Page 34 1871. Births in the Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew No. 101 Name and Surname - George Pursley When and Where Born - 1871 April Second 12h Noon(?) New Cathcart Parish of Cathcart Sex - M Name, Surname, Profession of Father - William Pursley Labourer Name, and Maiden Surname of Mother - Margaret Pursley M.S. Willamson Date and Place of Marriage - 1869 January 1 Cathcart Signature and Qualification of Informant, and Residence, if out of the Home in which the Birth occured. - William Pursley (sig) Father When and Where Registered, - 1871 April 21 at Cathcart and Signature of Register - Andrew Carnduff (Sp?) Registrar ============================================================== 1871 Census for Renfrewshire (LDS Microfilm # 0104081 "C-E") On page 40, Thorn Bank Road census #194 in the Civil Parish of Cathcart in the Village of New Cathcart: William Pursley, Head, Mar., 29, Labourer, born Ireland Margaret Pursley, Wife, Mar, 30, born Orkney, Stronsay Margaret " , Daur, 1, born Renfrewshire, Cathcart George " , Son 2 or 7 days (?), born " " Alexander Williamson, Brother-in-law, Unm, 18, Labourer, born Orkney, Stronsay ================================================================ In the 1900 Census for the State of Michigan (T623 Roll #752 - Vol. 84. ED 150, Sheet 17, Line 20) Margaret and her sons George, James and John are listed as living at 119 Clark Ave, Detroit, Michigan. On line 21 George, son, is listed as being born April 1873 age 27, single, born in Scotland with both parents also born there. Immigrated to US in 1886, listed as an alien. His occupation is Buffer and 5 months unemployed in last year. He can read, write and speak English. ***note: It looks like John may have given information to the enumerator since his bithday is the only correct one! ================================================================ In the 1900 Census for the State of Michigan (T623 Roll #752 - Vol. 84. ED 150, Sheet 17, Line 20) Margaret and her sons George, James and John are listed as living at 119 Clark Ave, Detroit. On line 21 George, son, is listed as being born April 1873 age 27, single, born in Scotland with both parents also born there. Immigrated to US in 1886, listed as an alien. His occupation is Buffer and 5 months unemployed in last year. He can read, write and speak English. ================================================================ The 1910 US Census for the State of Illinois in Supervisor District 1, ED 269, sheet 11A, lines 3 - 6 George's sister Margaret Pursley Johnson, her family and George are found living at 2853 Archer Ave, Chicago. The following was found by her great nephew Phil Pursley on Jan 21, 1999 at the National Archives, 73rd & Pulaski, Chicago. Pursley, George -- Bl (brother-in-law), age 38, single, where born is blank, father born in England - English nationality, mother Scotland -- nationality Scotch, speaks English, occupation Chef at a Hotel, not unemployed in 1909, reads and writes. ================================================================ In the 1920 Census for the State of Florida (Vol 22, ED129, Sheet 7, Line 71) on the Soundex file card for George Pursley : -- Enumerated with George is Margaret Pursley, mother, and John Pursley, brother. Douglas was not enumerated with them. He is in the Army. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Florida 1920 Census on Microfilm T625 Roll #224 -- Fourteenth Census of the United States taken Jan. 23, 1920, Pasco County, Precinct 8, the town of Elfers(Sp?), Supervisors Dist 41, ED 129, Sheet 7B, starting on line 69. Pursley, George -- Head -- owner -- male, white, age 48, single, immigrated to US in 1881, Alien, can read and write, born Scotland, mother tongue is English, father and mother born in Scotland both mother tongues English, trade is Farmer, type of farm is Orange(sp?), is the Employer Pursley, Margaret -- Mother -- female, white, age 82, widowed, immigrated 1881, alien, both parents born Scotland and her and parents' native tongue is English Pursley, John -- Brother -- male, white, age 42, single, info same as George, occupation listed as Partner ========================================================================= In an e-mail correspondence from Beck Pursley Bachart to Phil Pursley on 9/26/00 12:07:57 AM Central Daylight Time: "Also got a recent picture of dad in the mail today. He said Uncle George died/buried in Orlando and that the Jamieson's were family friends. At least that is cleared up." 4 iii. James Pursley, born 4 Sep 1872 in New Cathcart, Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew, Scotland; died 30 May 1953 in Chicago, IL. He married Helen Courtney 4 Jun 1901 in St. Bridget Catholic Church, Church St and Archer Ave, Chicago, IL; born 14 Feb 1878 in Chicago, IL; died 10 Feb 1954 in Chicago, IL. Notes for James Pursley: Received from General Register Office of Scotland on May 23, 1998: Extract of an entry in a Registry of Births for James Pursley born September Fourth, 1872 at 12 Noon(?) - New Cathcart, Parish of Cathcart - M - Father- William Pursley, Labourer Mother-Margaret Pursley M.S. Williamson married 1868 December 31 Cathcart Signature-William Pursley, Father Registered - 1872 September 23 At Cathcart Andrew Car(?)duff The above particulars are extracted from a Register of Births for the Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew Given under the Seal of the General Registry Office, New Register House, Edinburgh on 15 May 1998 ============================================================= Information about New Cathcart and Cathcart obtained from the Internet Site "GEN UK" @ http://www.skylinc.net/~lasmith/genuki/RFW/cathcart/index.html **note that date of this information is at approximately the time that James and family lived in the area. _________________ New Cathcart "CATHCART (NEW), village on the White Cart, 2½ miles south of Glasgow. It was founded about the beginning of present century {1800}. Pop. 689." [From The Gazetteer of Scotland, by Rev. John Wilson, 1882.] ----------------------------------- Cathcart "CATHCART, parish, chiefly in Renfrewshire, but partly in Lanarkshire, and including parts of the southern suburbs of Glasgow. It has a post office of its own name, under Glasgow, and contains the Queen's Park, the town of Crosshill, the villages of New Cathcart, Old Cathcart, Crossmyloof, Langside, Camphill, Prospect Hill, Florida, Clarkston Toll, Hangingshaw, Millbridge, Netherlee, and part of the town of Busby. Its length is 4 miles; its greatest breadth about 2 miles; its area, in Renfrewshire, 2667 acres; in Lanarkshire, 1397 acres. Pop., quoad civilia, 12,023 and 188; quoad sacra, 7242 and 73. The northern section is a charming expanse of rolling landscape, very rich in both natural beauty and artificial embellishment; but the southern section is somewhat hilly and comparatively bleak and barren. A tract of much interest is the battlefield of Langside; and an object of much note is Cathcart Castle, a place of conflict in the times of Wallace and Bruce, and long the seat of the distinguished family of its own name, but now a diminished ivy-clad ruin. The Cathcart family acquired the title of baron in the peerage of Scotland about 1447, and the titles of viscount and earl in the peerage of the United Kingdom in respectively 1807 and 1814. Their hereditary estates were alienated in 1546, but partly repurchased within the present century. Their present seat in the parish is Cathcart House. Other seats are Aikenhead, Langside, Netherlee, Camphill, and numerous villas. ..... There are 10 schools for 1686 scholars, and 2 of them for 700 are new." [From The Gazetteer of Scotland, by Rev. John Wilson, 1882.] ---------------------------------- from Gazetteer for Scotland @ http://www.geo.ed.ac.uk/scotgaz/maps/I251.IMAGEMAP?175,351 Cathcart Glasgow City An ancient parish on Glasgow s south side, Cathcart developed through weaving, agriculture and papermills along the River Cart. In 1884 the Cathcart District Railway opened leading to the development of tenements and villas for resident commuters. In 1912 it was incorporated into Glasgow. ============================================================== As a boy - mid 1880's - brought from Scotland to Nova Scotia by his mother along with her four other children (appears that William & John came in 1886). He always claimed that his stomach problems were because he was forced to eat raw/partially cooked oatmeal at the orphanage where he lived with his mother, sister and brothers. At the birth of his first born, E. Kenneth, he lived in Detroit and was a "Buffer & Polisher." After the birth of Eugene Kenneth he and Helen moved to New York, living in Buffalo and Catteraugus. While living in Catteraugus James Irving and Eugene Kenneth, their sons, were playing near a pig pen. Irving fell in and was about to be attacked by one of the pigs when his mother came to the rescue. (Above story told by Mary Lucille Pursley Dorgan to Phillip Pursley in April 1997.) ============================================================= In the 1900 Census for the State of Michigan (T623 Roll #752 - Vol. 84. ED 150, Sheet 17, Line 20) Margaret and her sons George, James and John are listed as living at 119 Clark Ave, Detroit. On line 22 James, son, is listed as being born Sep 1874, age 25, single, born in Scotland with both parents also born there. Immigrated to US in 1886, listed as an alien. Occupation is buffer and 0 months unemployed. He can read,. write and speak English. ***note: It looks like John may have given information to the enumerator since his bithday is the only correct one! ********************************************************************** On the 1900 Census in Cattaraugus, New York (T623 #1011 - ED 54, Sheet 10, Line 21) is found the family friends of Helen and James. They had a correspondence that lasted until their deaths. One of the Herzog daughters had always been hoped that she would marry Eugene Kenneth -- didn't work out. Herzog, head, age 28, born Nov 1871, married 8 years, born in Switzerland, emigrated 1888, occupation is barber, can read, write and speak English, owns home with a mortgage. --------, Susie, wife, born Nov 1872, married 8 years, 2 children born, 2 living, born in Canada, father born in Germany, mother born in England ---------, Blanche, daughter, born 1893 age 7 --------, Irene, daughter, born 1897 age 3 ============================================================== In the 1910 Census Miracode Card for Chicago, IL (T1264 Roll # 0348 - using soundex P624 with a code number of 051-0613-0383) James and his family are listed. James is a white male, age 38 born in Scotland. His wife is Helen, age 32, born in Illinois and his sons are Kenneth, age 8 born in Michigan and Irving, age 5, born in New York. It also states that 2 non relatives are living at the same address. Found that Eugene Courtney (age 27 and # 051-0613-0383) was one of the two living with James. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- On supervisor District 1, ED 613, sheet 21, line 51 of the 1910 Census for the State of Illinois James and his family were found living at 2411 S. Western Ave, Chicago. James was listed as head of house, male, age 38 , married for 9 years, born in Scotland, both parents born in Scotland (parents and his native language as English), year of immigration as 1882 and listed as an alien. he can read and write. His occupation is woodworker at Foleys. Also has not been unemployed in the last year; rents; followed by the code 9, 9, 5, 6. Helen -- wife, age 32, married 9 years, 2 children born and 2 living, born in Illinois, both parents born in Ireland, no occupation, reads and writes. Kenneth -- son, age 8, born in Michigan, father born in Scotland, mother born in Illinois, reads and writes, attends school. Irving -- son, age 5, born in New York, father born in Scotland, mother born in Illinois, does not attend school. Courtney, Eugene -- boarder, age 27, single, born in Illinois, both parents born in Ireland, occupation - woodworker at Planning Mill (note: Foleys is crossed out), working, not unemployed in 1909, can read and write, followed by code 2, 3, 5, 5. Williamson, Alex -- boarder, age 24, single, born in Scotland, both parents born in Scotland (parents and his native language is English), immigrated 1906, alien, occupation - woodworker at Planning Mill (note: Foleys is crossed out), working, not unemployed in 1909, can read and write, followed by code 2, 3, 5, 5. (***note: Could this be Margaret Williamson Pursley's nephew? Perhaps the son of Alexander McCray Williamson, the younger brother of Margaret.) . ============================================================== On Oct. 2, 1998 his grandson Phillip R Pursley received the following from The INS in Washington DC: 902765 UNITED STSTES OF AMERICA DECLARATION OF INTENTION Stamped illegible State of Illinois County of Cook In the Circuit Court of Cook County James Pursley, aged 38 years, occupation wood worker, do declare on oath that my personal description is: Color White, complexion Medium, height 5 feet 6 inches, weight 135 pounds, color of hair Brown, color of eyes Brown, other visible marks None. I was born in New Kirthcart, Scotland on the 4 day of September anno Domini 1872. I now reside at 2411 S Western Ave, Chicago, Ill. I emigrated to the United States of America from Belleville, Ont. Canada on the vessel Alexander across Lake Ontario my last foreign residence was Belleville, Ontario. It is my bona fide intention to renounce forever all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignity, and particularity to ...George V King of Great Britain and Ireland ...(a stamp), of which I am now a subject; I arrived at the port of Charlotte in the State of New York, on or about the 10 day of September, anno Domini 1900 (he later changes this to 1890); I am not an anarchist; I am not a polygamist nor a believer in the practice of polygamy; and it is my intention in good faith to become a citizen of the United States of America and to permanently reside therin; SO HELP ME GOD James Pursley (signature) Subscribed and sworn to before me at Chicago, Ill., this 21 day of April anno Domini 1911 Joseph F Bidwill, Jr Clerk of the Circuit Court - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - "PETITION FOR NATURALIZATION" The petition of James Pursley..... First. My place of residence is 2411 S Western Ave, Chicago, ILL Second. My occupation is Shipping Clerk Third. I was born on the 4th day of September anno Domini 1872 at New Kirtcart Scotland Fourth. I emigrated to the United States from Ontario, Canada on or about the 9 day of September anno Domini 1890, and entered in the United States at the port of Charlotte, N. Y. on the 10 day of September anno Domini 1890 on the vessel Alexandria across Lake Ontario (see *Note following). Fifth I declared my intention to become a citizen of the United States on the 27 day of April anno Domini 1911 at Chicago, ILL in the Circuit court of Cook County. Sixth I am married. My wife's name is Helen. She was born in Chicago, Ill and now resides with me ...Chicago, ILL. I have 3 children, and names, date and place of residence of (?) of said children is as follows.... Kenneth Born 6 April 1902 in Detroit, Mich Irving " 19 February 1905 New York Walter " 10 November 1913 Chicago, Ill. With me. Seventh I am not a disbeliever in or opposed to .....(very difficult to make out the poor quality copy but it looks like asking to for swear any other allegiance) Eighth I am able to speak the English language Ninth I have resided (?)ly in the United States of America for the term of five years at least precedent(?) the date of this petition to wit (?) the 10 day of September anno Domini 1890, and in the State of Illinois, continuously and preceding the date of this petition (?) the 9 day of August anno domini 1909 being a resident within the State of at least one year next preceding the date of this petition. Tenth I have not heretofore made petition for citizenship in any court................................(signed) James Pursley No. 23518 25 day of May, 1916 AFFADAVITS OF PETIONER AND WITNESSES ............................................................ (signed) James Pursley James B Foley (signature), occupation Builder residing at 2122 S. Ridgeway, Chicago, Ill. and Chas. F Mittlestedt (signature), occupation Clerk residing at 2359 S. Western Ave Chicgo, Ill. ........................................................................ ============================================================= ***************************************************************************************************** *********** *Note from Ship Descriptions from Various Internet Mailing Lists List and from Direct Submissions E-mailed to the Owner of this Web Site Last updated August 16, 1999 HTML and compilation format Copyright © 1997- 1999 Louis S. Alfano -- http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Parthenon/3649/ships.html All rights reserved ALEXANDRIA (2) In the 1905-06 Lloyd's Register of Shipping, I found the following information :ALEXANDRIA Official registration # : 85768 Rigging : wood paddle steamer. Tonnage : 863 tons gross and 507 tons net. Dimensions : 173.7 feet long, 30.6 foot beam and holds 8.4 feet deep. Built : in 1883 by A. Cantin in Montreal. Owners : A.W. Hepburn Port of registration : Montreal Flag : British. Her owner was Arthur W. Hepburn of Picton, Ontario. He sailed the Alexandria under the corporate name of Lake Ontario Navigation Co. Ltd..- [Posted to The ShipsList by Gilbert Provost - 8 October 1998] ***************************************************************************************************** *********** On Sep 26, 1916 James became an American Citizen - Vol 77 #18740 he was 44 years old. His citizenship papers stated that he was fair in complexion with gray eyes, dark brown hair, and 5 ft 6 inches in height. At this time he and Helen lived at 3626 W. 60th Pl., Chicago, IL with 3 living children, i.e., Eugene Kenneth, James Irving, and Walter. ============================================================= Evidence of his citizenship is also found in the National Archives on Micro Film M1285 Roll #141 using Soundex code P624. ============================================================== On the 1920 Soundex Card for Illinois (T625 Vol 101, ED 1787, Sheet 1, Line 71 -- taken for week of Jan 1920) James and his family are living at 3628 W. 61st St., Chicago: James, Head, 47, born in Scotland Helen, Wife, 41, born in Illinois Kenneth, Son, 17, born in Michigan Irving, Son, 14, born in New York Lucille, Daughter, 3, born in Illinois Robert, Son, 1/12, born in Illinois ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ On the 1920 Census for the State of Illinois (Microfilm T625 Roll #346 -- Supt Dist 1, ED 1787, Sheet 1B, Lines 71 to 77 -- taken Jan 8, 1920) James and his family are found living at 3628 W. 61st St. as follows: Pursley, James Head, Rents, age 47, Married, Immigrated 1890, Na, 1917, reads and writes, born Scotland, father appears to be born Ireland (very difficult to read because of poor quality of copy), Mother born Scotland, Occupation Ship (?) Greenhouse Helen, Wife, age 41, born Illinois, both parents born in Ireland Kenneth, son, age 17, born in Michigan, not working Irving, son, age 14, not in school, born in New York Lucille, daughter, age 3, born in Illinois Robert, son, age 1/12, born in Illinois Cousins, Emily Border, age 63, Widow, Immigrated 1880, Na, 1890. born Wales, mother tongue English, both parents born in Wales, their mother tongue English, doesn't work ***On one side of the Pursleys lived the Lawrence Fogarty family. Living with Lawrence (age 49) were his wife Catherine (42), his daughter Anna (19), his sons Matthew (14) and Lawrence (5), his brother Michael (51) and Michael's daughter Josephina (15). ========================================================== The way James's son Kenneth learned of his death was from his neighbor John Loddie coming over and telling him that he just gotten a phone call from Ken's brother Robert that his father had just died. Ken and Alice did not have a telephone at the time. Ken's son Phil can remember his grandfather laying on the couch with his mouth open. This was the first time that he had experienced death of a loved one.. ============================================================= In the May 30, 1953 obituary it states that he had been employed by Foley Greenhouse Mfg. Co., Chicago, for over 35 years. At the time of his death he lived at 3633 West 61st St Chicago, Il Tel # - Prospect 5649. James was buried in Mount Carmel Cemetery - lot 25, block 5, section U, (North half).Income Care on 4/24/57 # F-17805 from deed to Cemetery lot. ======================================= CHICAGO DAILY TRIBUNE Monday, June 1, 1953 DEATHS PURSLEY--- James Pursley of 3633 W. 61st street, beloved husband of Helen, nee Courtney; fond father of Kenneth, James Irving, Lucille Dorgan, and Robert, brother of William and George, grandfather of 10, great-grandfather of five. Funeral Tuesday, 9 a. m., from chapel, 3424 W. 63rd street, to St. Nicholas of Tolentine church. Internment Mount Carmel. GRovehill 6-0090 Notes for Helen Courtney: Helen was born at 2816 Church Place, Chicago, IL (Bridgeport). She could remember traveling to Kankakee on the Inter-urban Street Car. Helen was known to her nieces and nephews as "Aunt Nel." On May 2, 1942 her brother Timothy E. Courtney made out a Birth Certificate for Helen. At the time he lived at 5910 S Sawyer in Chicago. After the death of her parents she was shipped out to various farms in Wisconsin to be "raised." She learned how to cook various ethnic dishes depending on the nationality of the family she lived with. She especially was good at German cooking. One of her grandchildren's fondest memories was eating her home-made fresh bread hot out of the oven. She died at Evangelical Hospital, 9:32 PM in Chicago and buried at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Hillside, IL. John E. Egan was the funeral director. =============================================================== Baptized at St Bridget Catholic Church, Church St. (Bridgeport), Chicago, IL Lucille Pursley Dorgan remembers that the church was located on the north side of the street on Church St near Archer just off of Ashland. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - On page 74 of St Bridget's Official records it has Helen as being baptized Ellen Courtney on Feb 17, 1878. Her parents were Owen Courtney and Ellen Maloney. The sponsors were Michael O'Donnell and Ellen Williamson ============================================================== Her daughter Lucille remembers that one of Helen's best friends was Anna Griffiths who lived near them when she and James lived at 2411 S. Western Ave, Chicago. ================================================================ Certificate of Birth # 157316 1. Place of Birth -- Primary Dist. No. 3104 - Street and Number: 2816 Church Place, County of Cook, Chicago, IL 2. Full Name at Birth -- Helen Courtney 3. Sex -- Female 6. Legitimate -- Yes 7. Date of Birth -- February 14, 1878 8. Father -- Eugene Owen Courtney 9. Residence -- 2816 Church Place 10. Color -- White 11. Age at time of this birth -- 36 yrs 12. Birthplace -- County Kerry, Ireland 13. Shoemaker 14. Mother -- Helen Maloney 15. Residence -- 2816 Church Place 16. Color -- White 17. Age -- 32 yrs. 18. Birthplace -- County Kerry, Ireland 19. Occupation -- Housewife 20. (a) Number of children born to this mother at the time of and including this birth -- EIGHT (b) Number of children living at the time of and including this birth -- SIX 21. I HEREBY CERTIFY that I had actual knowledge of the facts as stated in this RECORD OF BIRTH at the time the birth occurred, and know them to be true; and that I am related to this person as -- BROTHER Signature --- Timothy E Courtney Present Address -- 5910 S Sawyer Subscribed and sworn before me this 2nd day of May, 1942 Earl W(sp) Asheroft(sp) Notary Public Registered May 27, 1942 ============================================================== On Nov. 9, 1897 Helen stood up for her brother Timothy's wedding at St. Briget Catholic Church in Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood. The other witness was Timothy Sullivan. =============================================================== In the 1900 Census for Illinois(T623 Roll # 249, Vol 20, ED 140, Sheet 12, Line 15) it has Nellie Courtney, a 22 year old white female, born in Illinois April 1878 boarding with the Mickel Finan family at 2811 Hillock (Hickock?) St. The April date may have been an enumerator's mistake. Lucille Pursley Dorgan says that her mother new the Finan family. One of Helen's best friends was Emma Johnson Finan King or known as Aunt Emma King! On this census taken June 5, 1900 it has Mickel Finan, born Aug 1874, age 25, 7 years married, born in Illinois, both parents born in Ireland, occupation is box maker and reads, writes and speaks English. Emma, wife of Mickel, born Sep 1876, 24 years old, married 7 years, 3 children born with 2 living, born in Illinois, father born in Sweeden and mother born in England and reads, writes and speaks English. Ethal, daughter, born Dec 1894, age 5, born in Illinois and attends school. Hazel, daughter, born Dec. 1897. Courtney, Helen - boarder, white female, born April 1878, age 22, single, where she and parents were born is blank, occupation is laundress. She reads, writes and speaks English. ***note: Helen may not have been there when the enumerator took the information because the month of her birth is wrong and where she and her parents were born is blank. Also note that Emma is Emma Johnson whose brother Harry Johnson married Margaret Pursley. =============================================================== On supervisor District 1, ED 613, sheet 21, line 51 of the 1910 Census for the State of Illinois James and his family were found living at 2411 S. Western Ave, Chicago. Helen -- wife, age 32, married 9 years, 2 children born and 2 living, born in Illinois, both parents born in Ireland, no occupation, reads and writes. ========================================== On the 1920 Census for the State of Illinois (Microfilm T625 Roll #346 -- Supt Dist 1, ED 1787, Sheet 1B, Lines 71 to 77 -- taken Jan 8, 1920) James and his family are found living at 3628 W. 61st St. as follows: Helen, Wife, age 41, born Illinois, both parents born in Ireland ================================================================ On Helen's Certificate of Death it states that she lived at 3633 West 61st Street, Chicago, IL and that she was a widow and housewife who owned her own home. The direct cause of death was CHRONIC MYOCARDITIS (2 yrs) due to ARTERIOSCLEROSIS (5 yrs) other problems was CHRONIC NEPHRITIS (3 yrs). She died at Evangelical Hospital, Chicago on Feb 10, 1954. State file # 9067 also 65-837 John Egan undertaker 5908 S Kedzie, Chicago buried at Mt Carmel Cemetery., Hillside, IL =============================================================== Helen Courtney wrote a will that was undated. Lucille and Alice are her daughter and daughter-in-law, i.e., Mary Lucille Pursley and Alice N. Warren Pursley. "Lucille & Alice I want you 2 girls to divide my stuff between you, vacum cleaner, wash machine frigidare, green rocker, bedroom- set & all thats in my room & clothes closet all the dishes, glasses pots & pans, linens & towels Kitchen table & chairs chrotchet pieces & Mixmaster Lucille have my ring loving Mother" ================================================================ CHICAGO DAILY TRIBUNE Friday, Feb. 12. 1954 F* DEATH NOTICES PURSLEY--- Helen Pursley of 3633 W. 61st street, beloved wife of the late James, fond mother of Kenneth, James Irving, Lucille Dorgan, and Robert, sister of Timothy and Eugene Courtney, grandmother of 10, great-grandmother of five. Funeral Saturday, 10:30 a. m., from chapel, 3424 W. 63rd street, to St. Nicholas of Tolentine church. Internment Mount Carmel. GRovehill 6-0090 5 iv. William Pursley, born 19 Mar 1874 in New Cathcart, Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew, Scotland; died 1 Jan 1955 in Wayne, Michigan. He married (1) Sadie Ryan 22 Oct 1901 in St. Bridget Catholic Church, Church St and Archer Ave, Chicago, IL; born Abt. 1879; died 9 Feb 1903 in Chicago, IL. He married (2) Julia May Irish Abt. 1904 in Perhaps Cattaraugus, NY; born 17 Oct 1886 in Pennsylvania; died 17 Aug 1965 in Wayne, Michigan. Notes for William Pursley: Received from General Register Office of Scotland on May 23, 1998: Extract of an entry in a Registry of Births for William Pursley born 1874 March Nineteenth - New Cathcart, Parish of Cathcart - M - Father- William Pursley, Labourer Mother-Margaret Pursley M.S. Williamson married 1869 January 1st Cathcart Signature-Wm Pursley, Father Registered - 1874 April 8th At Cathcart Alexander Caruouff(Sp?) The above particulars are extracted from a Register of Births for the Parish of Cathcart in the County of Renfrew Given under the Seal of the General Registry Office, New Register House, Edinburgh on 15 May 1998 ================================================================ On the 1900 Census for Chicago, Illinois (Vol. 20, ED 143, Sheet 7, Line 59) William is found living at 2953 Elias Court, Cook County, Chicago. He was a border in the apartment of William Scott and family (wife and seven children ranging from age 26 to 2 years). The census form shows William as a single white male of age 26 born in Scotland March of 1874. It says that he came to the United States in 1879 and has been in this country for 21 years. He says that both parents were born in Scotland. His occupation is Polisher (Brass) and during the last year he has 0 months of unemployment. He can speak, read and write English. Citizenship is indicated as "NA." This census was conducted on June 5, 1900 by Fred J. Wagner, Enumerator. ***note: The date that has been put down for immigration to US is more than likely wrong. The date was more likely 1890 from Canada and from Scotland to Canada probably took place about 1883 (see his brother James information for more details). ============================================================= ************Note*********** Found evidence of possible citizenship is also found in the National Archives on Micro Film M1285 Roll #141 using Soundex code P624: Pursley, William Cert # 1863 (Minor), born Scotland, no dates for birth or entry given, Date of Naturalization -- October 16, 1900, name and address of Witness -- M. J. O'Connor (no address given On the 1910 US Census for the State of New York (T624 #927) for Cattaraugus County, Cattaraugus Village, Supervisor's District 20, ED 74, Sheet 6A, lines 35 to 39, dated April 19, 1910 William and his family are found. Living at #10 South Main St, Cattaraugus, New York Pursley, William -- Head, age 36, married (has the letter "M" with a small 2 next to it), married for 6 years, born in Scotland - Scotch, father born in Ireland - Irish, mother born in Scotland - Scotch, immigrated 1885, NA, speaks English, occupation - Polisher in Metal working, unemployed for 6 weeks in 1909, reads and writes, rents, followed with the code 8, 3, 9, X. Julia -- Wife, age 25, married (has "M" with a small 1 following). married for 6 years, 2 children born and 2 living, born in Pennsylvania, father born in New York, mother born in France, speaks English, occupation is none, reads and writes. Melbourne -- son, age 7, born in Illinois, father born in Scotland, mother born in Pennsylvania (perhaps a mistake by enumerator -- should be Illinois?), reads and writes, attends school. Mona -- daughter, age 3, born in New York, father born in Scotland, mother born in Pennsylvania. Alexander -- son, age 9/12, born in New York, father born in Scotland, mother born in Pennsylvania. ************************************************************************************ next door to William and Julia's home lived Susan E. Irish who appears to be Julia's mother and also in the same home are her aunt and step-grandmother. Irish, Susan E -- Head, age 64, widowed (Wd), 1 child born and 1 living, born in New York, both parents born in New York, occupation - Nurse for Pursley family, worked all of 1909, reads and writes, owns home for last 7 years. James, Hannah -- Sister (to Susan), age 68, single, born in New York, both parents born in New York, occupation is Gardner at (can't make out?) House, reads and writes. James, Nancy -- Step mother (to Susan), age 69, widowed (Wd), born New York, both parents born in New York, occupation - none, reads and writes. ============================================================= 1920 Census for the Sate of Michigan found on Microfilm T625 Roll #819 -- Detroit, Wayne County, Super, Dist 19, ED 648, Sheet 51B, Line 73 Living at 422 Connors... Pursley, William -- Head, home is rented, Male, white, age 45, married, Emigrated 1887, naturalized citizen in 1895, reads and writes English, born Scotland, mother tongue is English, both parents born Scotland and their mother English, occupation is Foreman of Motor Co., wage worker -----------, Julian -- wife, female, white, age 34, married, rea