In-Laws Outlaws and Kinfolk

by F.E. McConvey

Published 29 October 1987

 

What person in his right mind would willingly be subjected to having his patience tried to the utmost pushed to the limits of his endurance; robbed of his sleep;and derive pleasure for extended periods of time, often without meals? Would you believe--a genealogist?

Genealogy issues a challenge to those brave enough to accept--and there are many. The positive aspects far outweigh any negative ones in this pursuit of one's ancestors.

The rewards are multifold. A great feeling of personal achievement pervades one's being as the "picture" slowly develops. Searching for one's antecedents develops mental skills and expands one's knowledge, both geographically and historically. This exploration into the past is the most valuable bequest anyone can bestow upon future generations. In every family there are stories and incidents too precious to be lost forever. This, too, is a responsibility accepted by the discerning genealogist. Last, but not least, are the people one meets--in person, through correspondence, or over the phone. They come in various sizes, shapes, ages, and colors, from any part of the globe, willing to share their findings. Even if working on a different families, a certain kinship develops between genealogists.

Have you ever thirsted beside the fast flowing stream, reluctant to take a drink? Take my hand and I shall lead you to a pool where cool, sparkling taste will bolster your flagging spirits.

If you have been satisfied with an occasional sip of these waters, follow me for an invigoration draught from a bubbling spring.

To those who have plunged headlong into the midst of the fountain-head to quaff copious quantities of this stimulation elixir--move over!

IN-LAWS, OUTLAWS AND KIN FOLK is a column for the genealogist. One aim is to provide a series of interesting and informative articles that will encourage and assist you, the reader, in your search. Your comments and questions are welcome. They will serve as guidelines for future writing.

Another intention of this column is to promote and advance genealogical and historical societies. Please keep me informed of your activities and any publications available.

Read are invited to send queries to IN-LAWS, OUTLAWS, AND KIN FOLK, c/o the Courier. Space may not permit all to be published, if the response is overwhelming, but we shall print as many as possible. The answers should be sent directly to those making the queries.

Queries

  1. Ames, Harriet M. b.Sept.25, 1852 at Stockton, ME (Stockton Springs). Marr. at St. John's R.C.Church, Bangor, ME on Nov. 13, 1870 to Owen O'Neill of Cty Clair, Ireland and Lee Settlement, NB. Seek info on parents and siblings.
  2. Garnett, Andrew located in Lepreau Parish 1881. B. ca 1823 in USA. Married Margaret............b. ca 1836. CH. Mary Jane, Caroline, Margaret, Amanda, Lucinda & Elizabeth. Seek info on this family.

 

The Family Tree

I doubt that I shall ever see

The completion of this family tree--

It's roots are buried deept in earth

And will not reveal great-

grand pap's birth.

Other trunks, I see, straight, tall and

thin,

While mine is gnarled and decayed

within.

The branches are crooked, broken

and battered.

Has ever appeared, one so tattered?

My eyes are red, but not from weeping

'Tis only the hours I've been

keeping

I should be asleep, but, I can't stop

Till I find the name of Grandma's

Pop.

Ahh, there it is! Quick let me add

That leaf, before it drives me mad

I stretch a bit and then, I yawn,

But before the breaking of the dawn,

Each added leaf concealed the blight

--

Making my tree a gen'alogist's

delight.

 

Note: In-Laws, Outlaws and Kinfolk articles have been published on this site with the permission of the St. Croix Courier. Special thanks goes to the Courier for allowing me to reprint my mother's articles.