THE MARTIN FAMILY BIBLES

The Bible of John and Mary Ann (Barnhart) Martin was reunited with the Martin family in 1992, thanks to Jack's second cousin, Mrs. Garnett Kalfus (nee: Judy).

Garnett's mother, Grace Fern Martin Judy,was the child of David and Huldah (Paul) Martin. David was the brother of Jack's Grandfather, James Martin. Garnett and Jack's mother Corrine (Evans) Martin were close and had stayed in touch in Springfield, Ohio. They enjoyed many of the same hobbies, like gardening and cooking and church. But, by 1992, Corrinne had moved to Pensacola, Florida to be near her son, Jack and Garnett had lost touch with the family.

In April of 1992, Jack and Barbara Martin received a letter at their home in Pensacola, Florida from Garnett in Springfield, Ohio, which began:

Dear Jack,

How many years has it been since I wrote your address in my book, I don't know, but do so hope that you still live there as I am sure you will be interested in what I have to say.

I am writing to tell you that I have the old family (Martin) Bible that had been passed down to Belle Martin, sister of my Grandfather, David and your Grandfather James Martin. She left it to her granddaughter who gave it to me as she did know my Mother, Grace Martin (who married Chas. Judy). Belle Martin had married William Coe and they lived in Bookwalter, Ohio. I don't know whether you knew them or, if so, would remember them. The births, marriages, and deaths had been recorded since your Great-Great Grandfather, Jonathan Martin, born in 1786.

The Bible itself is not in very good condition, mainly coming unglued at the back, however, it is all there. It is 12" by 9" by 3" and was published in 1851 by the New York American Bible Society. I would like for you to have it if we can figure out how to get it to you. I don't know if you ever come to Springfield, maybe to see some relatives of Barbara's, tho I didn't think you had anyone here. It weighs about 9 lbs. It would be ideal if you could come for it because of it's condition, but if not I will try to send it to you. If you can give me some specific instructions as to how it should be sent. Fred always did those things and I am not very proficient at knowing how to do so many things.

A scanned image of the original notes from the Bible – and a view of the Bible itself, can be viewed in the Photo files section.