Bessire Family History

Monday, February 27, 2012

John & Emma Bessire Bohning

John Bohning
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

John Bohning

b. 26 Sep 1874, Aplington, Butler, Iowa
md. Emma Thressie Bessire, 1 May 1902, Stanhope, Hamilton, Iowa
d. 31 Aug 1948, Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
bur. 4 Sep 1948, Medicine Hill Cemetery, Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
parents: Paul and Sophia [maiden ?] Bohning

Obituary of John Bohning

"We pause today to pay tribute to one of our highly respected citizens John Bohning who passed away Tuesday noon, August 31st in St. Mary’s hospital at Pierre following a heart attack which took his life bery shortly after entering that morning. John Bohning, one of a large family of Paul and Sophia Bohning, was born at Applington [sic], Iowa, Sept. 26th, 1874. At an early age he was baptized in the Evangelical Luther[a]n Church. His father died when he was but 10 years old, leaving John and several brothers to keep the family and home together. Under a wise mother’s guidance each boy was soon doing his share and John’s choice was in a local merchandise store. Here with his five years of education in Iowa school’s he established principles that made him an individual of sterling character and a successful business man. Every day found him at this counter and desk. On May 1st, 1902 he was married to Emma Bessi[r]e at Stanhope, Iowa. He continued to live in their Iowa home until he moved with his family to Harrold S. Dak. in Sept. in 1914. Here he established the general merchandise store which has so long borne his name. John Bohning was a quiet man humble in spirit, yet generous toward those in need, and contributed of his resources toward all community welfare and activities, No one will be missed more greatly than he. Mrs. Bohning passed away in April 1939. One daughter, Thelma Ingle preceded him in death. Five children who will miss a faithful father are Claude, who shared the business with his father, John of Pens[a]cola, Fla., Madeline Phinney of Harrold, Fred of San Diego, Calif., and James of Wazata, Minn. He also leaves six grandchildren and three brothers, Al of Miller, Ed of Santa Monica, Calif., and William of Spearfish. Many friends extend sympathy to the sorrowing loved ones. Funeral services were at the Methodist [church] in Harrold and were conducted by Rev. R.M. Walker at two o’clock Saturday September fourth, Mrs. Gus Johnson was the pianist and Mrs. Eldora Arndt? Was soloist. Burial was at the Harrold Cemetery. Hurd Funeral Home of Highmore [in] charge of the arrangements.
In memory of John Bohning
One of whom we saw go to and fro
So many years as out we looked
From window or from door.
Has left us dazed, alone, bereft
As we stand here, to think and know
We ne’er shall see him more,
But we recall his kindly deeds
When hunger stalked abroad across our plains
And wrote its name ’cross many doors
This friend who saw the needs of men
Unknown, unsung-stilled aching hearts.
Our God records it, evermore.
Zella L. Stotmeister.
Card of Thanks. We wish to take his means of thanking our many find friends and neighbors for their kindnesses during the illness and death of our beloved Father and brother. For the many cards and beautiful floral offerings and a special thank you to Rev. Walker for his comforting words. Your many expressions of sympathy will never be forgotten. John Bohning Family."

The Harrold Journal (Harold South, South Dakota)
9 Sep 1948, Thursday

Courtesy of South Dakota State Archives

Emma Bessire Bohning
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Emma Thressie* Bessire
b. 21 Oct 1877 Beaver Dam, Allen, Ohio
d. 21 Apr 1939, Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
bur. 24 Apr 1939, Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
parents: Alcide Lucian Bessire & America Ann Murray
*Alternate name for Thressie: marriage record-Theressa

Obituary of Emma Bohning

"Once more the grim reaper has called at one of our homes and called Mrs. John Bohning to her reward after an illness of two months due to heart trouble and she passed peacefully to sleep last Friday afternoon. Emma Theress [sic] Bessire was born Oct. 21, 1877 at Beaver Dam, Ohio, where she lived until she was twelve years of age when she moved with her family to Iowa where she grew to womanhood. On May 1, 1902, she was married to John Bohning. They lived at several points in Iowa until coming to Harrold where she made her home until her passing, April 21, 1939. She was converted and joined the Methodist church about 20 years ago and remained a faithful member until she answered the call. She leaves to mourn their loss her husband, six children: Thelma, (Mrs. L. J. Ingle of Minneapolis, Claude of Harrold, John Jr. of the U.S. navy, Madeline (Mrs. Ted Phinney of Harrold), Fred of Harrold and James of Minneapolis, and two grandchildren, Patty Jo Ingle of Minneapolis and Donald Bohning of Harrold, her father, Alcide Bessire and step mother of Twin Falls, Idaho, a sister Mrs. Effie Watkins of Twin Falls, Idaho, an uncle, John Murray of Lafayette, O., besides a host of other relatives and friends. Mrs. Bohning will be greatly missed in her home and community. A great home lover, her interest was centered there, ever to encourage and keep from anxiety the loved ones of her home. In her church she found comfort and rest thru her enduring faith in God. For many years she gave to it as strength allowed, her fellowship and service as a member and officer. The funeral was held Monday afternoon from the local church with Rev. Gugin? and Mrs. Stotmeister officiating. The very large attendance and lovely flowers was a tribute to the deceased and showed the esteem held for her and the family. Interment was in the local cemetery. Her smile will ever linger with us; Her patient toil, unselfish care-God planted in her heart a garden, ‘Twas cultured here,--‘twill blossom there.
Card of Thanks. We wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to all those, who so kindly assisted us in the loss of our beloved wife, mother and sister. Also for the beautiful floral offerings. John Bohning and family, Effie M. Watkins, John Murray."

The Harrold Journal (Harrold, South Dakota)
Courtesy of South Dakota State Archives

Fred Bohning, John Bohning, Septimus Watkins
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Back: Fred Bohning, John Bohning, Septimus Watkins, Hattie Riley Bessire
Front: Emma Bessire Bohning, Effie Bessire Watkins, Madge Bohning
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Children of John & Emma Bohning

Thelma Alcida Bohning
b. 3 Jul 1903, Iowa
md Lawrence Joseph Ingle, 14 Jan 1925, Huron, Beadle, South Dakota
d. 8 Feb 1940, Minneapolis, Hennipin, Minnesota
bur. Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, Minneapolis, Hennipin, Minnesota
Lawrence's parents: Joseph Ingle & Julia Stram

South Dakota Marriages, 1905-1949

Ancestry.com online database

Claude R. "Jack" Bohning
b. 31 Oct 1906, Buffalo Center, Winnebago, Iowa
md. Velma Fern Naysmith, 23 Jun 1931, Chester, [Lake Co., South Dakota?]
d. 1 Jul 1989, Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
bur. 5 Jul 1989, Medicine Hill Cem., Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
Velma's parents: William Naysmith & Melsena Lively

Obituary of Claude Bohning

"Claude Bohning. Funeral services for Claude “Jack” Bohning were held Wednesday, July 5, 1989, at the Harrold Methodist Church in Harrold, S.D., with Pastors Sue Hakeem and Mark Holland officiating. Casket bearers were Martin Winckler, Don Bollweg, Dennis Marso, Martin Stiefel, Marvin Jessen and Delton Starkey. Burial was at Medicine Hill Cemetery in Harrold with Masonic Rites. Memorials may be sent to Harrold Methodist Church or Harrold Community Club, Box 195, Harrold, SD 57536. Claude “Jack” Bohning was born October 31, 1907, at Buffalo Center, Iowa, to John and Emma Theresa (Bessi[r]e) Bohning and died July 1, 1989, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre, South Dakota, at the age of 81 years and eight months. He moved to Harrold, South Dakota with his family in 1914. He was united in marriage to Velma Fern Naysmith June 23, 1931, at Chester, Nebraska. He was the former owner of Bohning & Bohning General Merchandise Store in Harrold, a business that was started by his father, Johann “John” Bohning, and uncle, Bill Bohning, in 1918. The store, which has become a Harrold community landmark, is now owned by Marty and Sharon Winckler and many young people have worked at the store during high school and college years. He loved the people of Harrold and loved serving them at his store. He was a very avid hunter, fisherman and trapshooter. He delighted in hunting pheasants, grouse, ducks and geese, with goose hunting being his favorite sport. He was a kind and generous man. He was an active member of the Harrold Methodist Church and the Masonic Lodge in Harrold for over 60 years, having joined the order in 1928. Survivors include: his wife, Velma, Harrold; two sons: Larry, Denver, Colo.; and Don, Miami, Fla.; one brother, Fred, Twin Falls, Idaho; one sister, Madge Phinney, Lewiston, Mont.; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister and two brothers."

Highmore Herald (Highmore, South Dakota)
13 July 1989, p, 4
Courtesy South Dakota State Archives

Obituary of Velma Bohning

"Velma Bohning. Velma Fern Bohning, 93, Pierre, a longtime resident of the Harrold community, died Jan. 6, 1997, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre. Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at the United Methodist Church in Harrold with the Rev. Richard Barnes officiating. Burial will be at Medicine Hill Cemetery at Harrold. Visitation is from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10, at the Hofmeister Funeral Chapel of Pierre. Velma Fern Naysmith was born on Dec. 22, 1903, In Republic County, Kansas, to William and Melsina (Lively) Naysmith. She grew up on a farm and attended school in Chester, Neb. She obtained her teaching certificate from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and began teaching in the Harrold school system, later serving as its principal. On June 23, 1931, she married Claude “Jack” Bohning in Chester. They took up residence in Harrold. She and her husband owned and operated the Bohning and Bohning General Merchandise Store in Harrold until 1975. The store was a Harrold landmark for more than 75 years. Velma was a member of the Harrold Methodist Church and the Eastern Star. She was an avide gardener, florist, and bird watcher. She also loved to travel and had been to Durope, the Holy Land, and Southeast Asia. She is survived by two sons, Larry Bohning of Denver, Colo., and Don Bohning and his wife Gerry of fort Lauderdale, Fla.; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; 95-year-old twin sisters, Avis Strawhun and Gladys Bodholt, both of Yuba City, Calif., and another sister, Eavon Holmes of Nipomo, Calif. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1989; her parents; two brothers, Henry “Jim” Naysmith and Victor “Vernon” Naysmith, and a grandson, Terry Bohning."

Pierre Capital Journal (Pierre, South Dakota)
Courtesy of South Dakota State Archives

John Buck Bohning
b. 4 Mar 1908, Iowa
md. 1st Vera W. Thoman, 14 June 1930, Hughes Co., South Dakota
md. 2nd Catherine G. [maiden?]
d. 1 Jan 1976, Escambia Co., Florida
bur. 6 Jan 1976, Barrancas National Cem., Pensacola, Escambia, Florida

South Dakota Marriages, 1905-1949

Ancestry.com online database

Evening Huronite (Huron, South Dakota)
18 June 1930-Wednesday
Ancestry.com database

Obituary of John Buck Bohning

"McNeil-Keyes Funeral Home-Bohning: Mr. John Buck Bohning, 67, of 7155 North 9th Ave., died Thursday afternoon in a local hospital. Mr. Bohning was a native of Iowa and had resided in Pensacola for several years. He was retired from the U.S. Navy after over 20 years of active duty. He was also a veteran of World War II, and a member of the Fleet Reserve Association and a member of the Methodist Church. Survivors include his widow, Catherine G. Bohning of Pensacola; two brothers, Claude Bohning of Harold [sic], S.D. and Fred Bohning of Twin Falls, Idaho and a sister, Madge Phinney of Louistown [sic], Montana. Funeral services will be 12:30 p.m. Tuesday in the McNeil-Keyes Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Karl D. Stringfellow officiating. Burial will be in the Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors and McNeil-Keyes Funeral Home directing. Pallbearers will be Floyd Abbot, Grant Slaver, Floyd Clark and Ray Smith."

Pensacola News (Pensacola, Florida)

5 January 1976, p. 8A
Courtesy of West Florida Branch Genealogical Library, Pensacola, FL

Madeline P. Bohning
b. 8 Jul 1909 Buffalo Center, Winnebago, Iowa
md. Theodore R. Phinney, 3 Feb 1930, Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
d. 7 Jan 1997, Lewistown, Fergus, Montana
bur. Jan 1997, Lewistown City Cem., Lewistown, Fergus, Montana
Theodore's parents: Robart A. Phinney & Mary Elizabeth Kelly

South Dakota Marriages, 1905-1949
Ancestry.com online database

Photo courtesy of Kurt Albert
Posted on Ancestry.com, Public Member Tree

Obituary courtesy of Central Montana Genealogy Society
Title of newspaper was not given, nor date.

Fred Lawrence Bohning

b. 30 Sep 1910, Clarksville, Butler, Iowa
md. Nina Gladys Gustafson, 11 August 1936, Hughes Co., South Dakota
d. 3 June 2002, Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho
bur. 7 Jun 2002, Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum, Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho
Nina's parents: Harry Gustafson & Edna [maiden?]

Twin Falls, Idaho-Times News-June 2002

James M. Bohning

b. 30 Sep 1916, Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota
md. [probably not married]
d. 25 January 1970, Redfield State Hospital & School, Redfield, Spink, South Dakota
bur. 29 January1970, Medicine Hill Cem., Harrold, Hughes, South Dakota

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Bessires in the News

A.L. Bessire & Mrs. A.L. Bessire (Hattie)
Newspaper extracts transcribed & compiled by Stephanie Bessire Mecham
November 2011

Early 20^th century newspapers give us an insight of the life of A.L. (Alcide Lucian) Bessire and his second wife, Hattie, first in Iowa, then in Idaho. It is interesting to note the Hattie is referred to most often as Mrs. A.L. Bessire, most likely a custom of the day.

Through these little snippets of news, we discover what hard working, enterprising, talented, and civic-oriented people they were. My summation is that to call on Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Bessire for service or a particular job, resulted in a job responsibly well done.

Most of the following extracts cover the years 1905-1909. By no means are these the sum total of instances this couple appears in the Twin Falls newspapers for this range of years. Other years are yet to be searched and not all newspapers for the area are accessible at this time. A few extracts are complemented with a photo of the original article. The dates preceding each entry are the date of the newspaper.

Once again, I give kudos to those saving these historical records by digital means and allowing them to be searchable for hidden treasures such as these, simple yet revealing. (See www.newspaperarchive.com, a subscription website.)

May 22, 1903--Iowa
“Mr. & Mrs. A.L. Bessire arrived Wednesday from Washington to visit their daughter, Mrs. John Bohning.”
Buffalo Center, Iowa: Buffalo Center Tribune, Friday May 22, 1903, p. 5.

June 30, 1905—Idaho
“I, Iva Riley, assignee of Alcide Bessire of Twin Falls, Ida., who made entries No. 161 and 577 under the provision of an act of the legislature of the State of Idaho, commonly known as the ‘Carey Act’ approved March 2, 1889, which embraces E [½?] of NW [¼?] of sections 21 to township [10?] S. of range [18?] East B.M. do hereby give notice of my intentions to make final proof to establish my claim to the land above described, and that I expect to prove that I resided on, reclaimed and cultivated said land as required by law, before C.D. Thomas representative of the State land Board at Twin Falls, Idaho on July 15, 1905, by two of the following witnesses: Alcide Bessire, R.W. [Steele?], Miss Sadie Ryan and Mrs. Hattie Bessire, all of Twin Falls, Ida. Iva Riley, Entryman."
“Notice for Publication-Final Proof.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, June 30, 1905, p. 7. [This notice was repeated weekly in June and July. The numbers were difficult to interpret. Incidentally, Hattie’s maiden name was Riley. Iva Riley could be a relative.]

July 8, 1905
“A.L. Bessire, who has leased the Hotel Burrington and will manage it in connection with the Twin Falls House, is refitting the hotel neatly within and proposes to make it exceedingly comfortably. The dining room has been closed while the alterations are being made. It will be reopened Sunday when the first dinner will be served by the new management. The office and halls are being papered and the interior of the building has been greatly improved in appearance.”
“Brevities.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, Saturday, July 8, 1905, p. 8.

July 14, 1905
“A.L. Bessire has commenced an ice express service between Twin Falls and Shoshone. If he succeeds in staving off the threatened famine he should be pensioned.”
“Brevities.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, July 14, 1905, p. 8.

August 11, 1905
Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, August 11, 1905, p. 4. [Ad]

Photo courtesy of Twin Falls Public Library, Twin Falls, Idaho

The Earliest Hotels

"Our town's first hostelry--the Twin Falls Rooming House--was opened in November , 1904 by Scott W. Hazen at what is now 227 Main Avenue East."

James F. Varley. Tales of the Tract: The Beginnings of Twin Falls, Idaho and the "Magic" Valley. (Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls Library Foundation & Big Lost River Press), 2004, p. 75

January 11, 1907
“A.L. Bessire, plump and bronzed, led the audience in a popular old song as a starter. Mr. Bessire is a reformed lumberman and a splendid road overseer. He is responsible for many road improvements in the vicinity of Kimberly and is deserving of public thanks and encouragement for his good work. In speaking of the lumber industry, Mr. Bessire expressed the opinion, based upon years of expertise, that the lack of transportation facilities was largely responsible for the scarcity of lumber and the high price which it commanded.”
“Kimberly Commercial Club Plays the Host.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, January 11, 1907, p. 7.

February 15, 1907
“Kimberly, Feb 14. . . . A.L. Bessire Leads the Season by Sowing Spring Wheat. . . . A.L. Bessire is considerably ahead of his neighbor farmers, having already planted eight acres of wheat. Mr. Bessire will farm on a very extensive scale this year, having rented the MacMaster place adjoining him on the west. All of this land he had plowed last fall. He believes in getting the grain in the ground early and intends to do it.”
“Spring Weather Stirs Kimberly.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, February 15, 1907, p. 7.

February 22, 1907
“Kimberly, Feb. 21. . . . A.L. Bessire has rented the farm of George Peterson south of town. Mr. Peterson has accepted a position as ditch rider for the summer.”
“Minidoka Buys Kimberly Grain.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, February 22, 1922, p. 4

March 1, 1907
“Kimberly, Idaho, Feb. 28. . . . One of the valuable horses of A.L. Bessire suffered a severe accident caused by stepping on the upturned tooth of a harrow.”
“Kimberly Spuds Are In Demand.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, March 1, 1907, p. 1

March 8, 1907
“Mr. & Mrs. Scott W. Hazen and Mr. and Mrs. E.P. Ring visited Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Bessire at Kimberly a few days ago. Mr. Hazen reports a remarkable condition of affairs at Mr. Bessire’s farm. Mr. Bessire is one of the best farmers in the country and he likes to have everything shipshape.

“Not long ago, that portion of his fence posts above the upper strand of wire disappeared. Mr. Bessire thought perhaps the jack rabbits had gnawed off the ends of the posts b__ they proved an alibi. The tops were missing and Mr. Bessire was wrathy [sic]. Hazen suggested that the posts might grow if they were irrigated or it might be possible to splice the tops on. He offered to supply Mr. Bessire with a bushel of auger holes for the purpose and the plan is being considered.”
“Brevities.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, March 8, 1907, p. 5.

March 15, 1907
“Kimberly, March 14. . . .The roads about here at the present time are in a frightfully band condition. A.L. Bessire had to use four of his big horses to haul 2100 pounds of coal from Twin Falls.”
“Kimberly Is To Have Flour Mill.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, March 15, 1907, p. 1.

April 5, 1907
“Kimberly, April 4. . . . The Johnson horsepower thresher was again resurrected long enough to thresh 1350 bushels of oats on the R.W. Jones place which were bought in the stack by A.L. Bessire and J.F. Henley.”
“Will Beautify Kimberly Park.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, April 5, 1907, p. 8, paragraph 15.

June 7, 1907
“For Sale—30 acres all seeded. A.L. Bessire, Kimberly.”
Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, June 7, 1907, p. 4 [Ad]

July 19, 1907
“Kimberly, Idaho, July 17. . . . It is reported that A.L. Bessire has sold the north forty of his farm.”
“Shipping Hay From Kimberly.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, July 19, 1907, p. 1.

September 20, 1907
“Kimberly, Idaho, Sept. 19. . . . George Moore and his partner who have charge of the Peterson thresher, were at work for A. L. Bessire Saturday. George is carrying his right hand in a sling and his partner has one eye out of business as a result of some stranger trying to run their business for them. George, in striking the man, broke three bones in his hand and had to go to Twin Falls to have the doctor set them Friday. . . .

“The Ladies Pioneer club met at the home of Mrs. W.H. Turner last Thursday. This was the regular business meeting and there were about [number?] members present. The following officers were elected: Mrs. A.L. Bessire, president. . .”
“Four Threshers Are Kept Busy.” Twin Falls Idaho: Twin Falls News, September 20, 1907, p. 9.

October 18, 1907
“Kimberly, Idaho, Oct [date?]. . . . A.L. Bessire has returned from Washington, where he was suddenly called by the illness of his daughter.” [Effie Bessire Watkins]
“Shooting Was Rather Costly.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, October 18, 1907, p. 8 [This title does not refer to the cause of Effie’s illness.]

February 5, 1909
“A.L. Bessire, E. Brown and F. Tessier have formed a partnership to be known as the Twin Falls Excavating & Freighting Co. They will make a specialty of excavating, furnishing rock, sand and gravel, moving houses and transport heavy freight. They have opened an office at the Iris rooming house. The three gentlemen are all well known. They have the stock and the “git up” and are well able to keep things moving.”
“Brevities.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, February 5, 1909, p. 5.

May 7, 1909
“Kimberly, Idaho, May 5. . . . A.L. Bessire has a large force at work excavating the basement for the Townsite company’s building located between the hotel and drug store. The size will be 50 x 80 and nine feet deep.”
“Kimberly Trees Are Destroyed.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, May 7, 1909, p. 1

March 19, 1909
“Old Register from Shoshone Falls Hotel. Gus Johnson, the Proprietor, Lays Aside the Old Book Which Has Done Service For Nearly Five Years at the Noted Resort. Gus Johnson, proprietor of the Shoshone falls hotel, has purchased a new register. There would be nothing extra ordinary about this purchase were it not that in abandoning his old register, Mr. Johnson has laid aside a book that contains a great deal of Twin Falls history.

“The old register is in an excellent state of preservation and its pages bear the names of many men and women who have been prominent in the up-building of the greatest irrigated tract on earth.

“The register was opened on Wednesday, June [20?], 1904. The first name appearing therein is that of M.B. DeLong of sweet memory, the first secretary and treasurer of the Twin Falls Land and Water Co. . . .

[some of the other registrants include notable names of Idaho: Mark M. Murtaugh, I.B. Perinne, Frank Filer, Peter Kimberly, Frank H. Buhl, Senator and Mrs. Heyburn, etc.]

“During the week following August 15 [1904] many pioneers recorded their names on the old register, among them Charlie Hawk, John M. Hale now of Jerome, A.L. Bessire, E.B. Critchlow and others. . . .”
“Contains Many Notable Names.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, March 19, 1909, p. 1

May 21, 1909
Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls News, Friday, May 21, 1909, p. 9. [Ad]

May 21, 1909
“Mrs. A.L. Bessire has disposed of the Iris rooming house to Miss Olive Platt, a recent arrival from Colorado.”
“Brevities.” Twin Falls, Idaho, Twin Falls News, Friday, May 21, 1909, p. 5.

July 21, 1931
“Leaves for Vacation—A.L. Bessire left Sunday evening for a ten-day vacation at Lava Hot Springs.” [At age 78, vacation deserved?]
“Brevities.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Twin Falls Daily News, Tuesday Morning, July 21, 1931, p. 2.

November 11, 1942
“Funeral services for A.L. Bessire, pioneer resident of Twin Falls and veteran Odd-Fellow, were held Monday afternoon at the Twin Falls mortuary chapel. Rev. H.G. McCallister, pastor of the Methodist church, and members of the Twin Falls Odd Fellows lodge were in charge of services. Mrs. W.O. Watts presented musical numbers. Pallbearers were William Thietten, S. E. Crismor, G.W. Gerrish, C.I. Davis, F.L. Gogswell, and C.W. Clark, all I.O.O.F. members. Interment was in the Twin Falls Cemetery."
“Bessire Services Pay Last Honors.” Twin Falls, Idaho: Times-News, Wednesday, November 11, 1942, p. 2.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Septimus Watkins and Effie May Bessire

Septimus Watkins & Effie May Bessire
Possible marriage photo?
Photographer E.J. Bailey & Co., Seattle Wash.
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Septimus Watkins
b. 20 February 1868, Abercanaid, Glamoran, South Wales, Great Britain
md. Effie May Bessire, 29 November 1899, Snohomish, Snohomish, Washington
d. 19 March 1945, Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho
bur. 23 March 1945 Sunset Memorial Park, Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho
parents: Evan Watkins & Gwendolyn Lewis (names appear on Septimus’s death certificate)

Septimus Watkins--date unknown--single?
Photo courtesty of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Census appearances for Septimus before marriage.
Note that Ann Watkins is Septimus’s grandmother, not mother.

1870 U.S. Federal Census: Foster Township, Luzerne, Pennsylvania
Dwelling 121: Evan Watkins age 31, male, white, mines coal, born Wales, father foreign born, mother foreign born. Ann Watkins, age 57, female, white, keeping house, born Wales, father and mother foreign born. William Watkins, age 21, male, white, mines coal, born Wales, father and mother foreign born. Mary J. Watkins, age 16, female, white, born Wales, father and mother foreign born. Abraham A. Watkins, age 37, male, white, mines coal, born Wales, father and mother foreign born. William Watkins, age 15, male, white, mines coal, born Wales, father and mother foreign born. William Welsch, age 45, male, white, mines coal, born Canada, mother and father foreign born. Septimus Watkins, age 2, male, white, born Wales, father and mother foreign born.

1880 U.S. Federal Census: Foster Township, Luzern, Pennsylvania

Dwelling 284, family 286: Evan Watkins, white, male, age 41, married, coal miner, born Wales, father born Wales, mother born Wales. Anne Watkins, white, female, age 68, mother [head], widowed, housekeeper, born Wales, father born Wales, mother born Wales. Ceptimus [sic] Watkins, white, male, age 11, son, single, school, born Wales, father born Wales, mother born Wales.

Effie May Bessire
b. 3 July 1875, Liberty, Hardin, Ohio
d. 20 December 1960
bur. 23 Dec 1960, Sunset Memorial Park, Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho
parents: Alcide Lucian Bessire & America Ann Murray

Probably Effie (or her sister Emma?)
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)
Single? Date unknown

Census appearances of Effie before marriage:

1880 U.S. Federal Census: Bath Township, Allen, Ohio
Dwelling 18, family 18: Alcid [sic] L. Bessire, white, male, age 26, married, farming, born Ohio, father born Switzerland, mother born France. America A. Bessire, white, female, age 25, married, keeping house, born Ohio, father born Ohio, mother born Ohio. Effa [sic] M. Bessire, white, female, age 5, daughter, single, born Ohio, father born Ohio, mother born Ohio. Emma T. Bessire, white, female, age 2, daughter, single, born Ohio, father born Ohio, mother born Ohio. Elmer Barret, white, male age 15, servant, single, works on farm, born Ohio, father born U.S., mother born Ohio.

Children:
It doesn’t appear that Septimus and Effie had any biological children. The 1910 census indicates that no children were born and no children were living. However, in Septimus’s obituary (1945) it states that he is survived by “two foster children, Vera Noble and Fred Noble, both of Seattle.” Interestingly enough, Vera and Fred appear on the 1900 U.S. Federal Census in Granite Falls, Snohomish, Washington with their assumed parents, Charles and Susanna Noble, on the very same page as Septimus and Effie. So these two families were neighbors. How it comes to be that Vera and Fred Noble end up as foster children, if in fact so, needs further research. Effie’s obituary (1960) does not indicate any children as survivors.

Effie & Septimus Watkins
Date unknown--married per photo?
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Census appearances of Septimus and Effie after marriage:

1900 U.S. Federal Census Granite Falls, Snohomish, Washington
Dwelling 175, family 177: Scptiemus [sic] Watkins, head, white, male, born Feb 1868, age 32, married, married 1 years, born Wales, father born Wales, mother born Wales, naturalized?, day laborer, 2 months not employed, can read and write and speak English, house rented. Effie Watkins, wife, white, female, born Nov 1874, age 25, married, married 1 year, zero children born, zero children living, born Ohio, father born Ohio, mother born Ohio, can read and write and speak English. Evan Watkins, father [head], white, male, born Oct 1840, age 59, widowed, born Wales, father born Wales, mother born Wales, immigrated 1869, 31 years in U.S., carpenter, can read and write and speak English.

1910 U.S. Federal Census: Glenwood, Kitsap, Washington Dwelling 292, family 292: Septimas Watkins, head, male, white, age 42, 1st marriage, married 10 years, born Wales, father born England, mother born England, immigrated 1870, naturalized, can read and write and speak English, bookkeeper, logging company, working own account, working on April 15, 1910, zero weeks out of work during 1909, house rented. Effie Watkins, wife, female, white, age 35, 1st marriage, married 10 years, zero children living of zero children born, born Ohio, father born Ohio, mother born Ohio, can read and write and speak English, no occupation.

1920 U.S. Federal Census: Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho Farm, dwelling 229, family 234: Septimus Watkins, head, house owned mortgage, male, white, age 52, married, immigration 1868, naturalized 1875, can read and write and speak English, born Wales (Welsh), father born Wales (Welsh), mother born Wales (Welsh), engineer county works, wage worker, farm schedule 189. Effie M. Watkins, wife, female, white, age 44, married, can read and write and speak English, born Ohio, father born Ohio, mother born Ohio, no occupation.

1930 U.S. Federal Census: Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho128 Fourth Ave. East, dwelling 206, family 231: Septimus Watkins, head, renter, $22/month, not living on farm, male, white, age 62, married, age 31 at first marriage, can read and write and speak English, born Wales, father born Wales, mother born Wales, speaks Welsh, immigration 1870, naturalized, civil engineer for state, class of worker=W, actually at work, not a veteran. Effie Watkins, wife, female, white, age 54, married, age 24 at 1st marriage, can read and write and speak English, born Ohio, father born Ohio, mother born Ohio, no occupation.

Effie holding ?
Date unknown
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Effie & Septimus Watkins in later years--date unknown
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning (1910-2002)

Times-News, Twin Falls, Idaho
Tuesday, 20 Mar 1945, p. 2

Times-News, Twin Falls, Idaho
Wednesday-21 Dec 1960-p. 2

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Alcide Lucian Bessire & Hattie A. Riley

Alcide L. & Hattie A. Riley Bessire
Photography by Reed in Missouri Valley, Iowa
Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning - date unknown

Alcide Lucian Bessire
b. 8 Nov 1852, Wayne County, Ohio
md.26 Feb 1874, Allen County, Ohio, America Ann Murray (1^st)
md. 2 Apr 1883, Hardin County, Ohio, Hattie A. Riley (2^nd)
d. 6 Nov 1942, Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho
bur. 9 Nov 1942, Twin Falls Cemetery, Twin Falls, Idaho
Parents: Eugene Bessire and Marianne Emily Grimm

Hattie A. Riley (2^nd wife)
b. 1 Sep 1857* Bellefontaine, Logan, Ohio
d. 21 April 1941, Twin Falls, Twin Falls, Idaho
bur. 23 Apr 1941, Twin Falls Cemetery, Twin Falls, Idaho
Parents: Joseph Riley?

*Death record gives birth date as 5 September 1857 in Centerburg, Ohio.

Marriage Record:

State of Ohio, Hardin County, ss.
Personally came Alcide L. Bessire applying for License for himself to be married to Miss Hattie Riley who, being sworn, says that the said Alcide L. Bessire is over the age of twenty-one years, and unmarried; that the said Hattie Riley is over the age of eighteen years, and unmarried, resides in Hardin County, and that he knows of no legal impediment to said marriage.
Signed Alcide L. Bessire. Sworn to and subscribed before me this 2^nd day of April A.D. 1883. Jas O. L____?, Probate Judge.

State of Ohio Hardin County, ss.
I certify that on the 2^nd day of April A.D. 1883, Alcide L. Bessire and Hattie Riley were legally join in Marriage by me, a minister [name unclear].

(Source: Ohio. Probate Court (Hardin County), Ohio: Marriage Records, 1833-1918; index, 1833-1960. Salt Lake City, UT, USA: Filmed by the Genealogical Society of Utah, 1972, 1980. Family History Library Film 914844. Family History Library, 35 N. West Temple Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84150, USA, )

CHILDREN:

Christie May Bessire
b. 21 August 1886, Missouri Valley Harrison, Iowa
d. 18 Dec 1893, Missouri Valley, Harrison, Iowa
bur. 20 Dec 1893, Rose Hill Cemetery, Missouri Valley, Harrison, Iowa

Christie May Bessire

Photography by Reed, Missouri Valley

Photo courtesy of Fred Bohning, date unknown

On the back of the above original photo is written the scripture reference 2 Kings 4:20: "And when he had taken him, and brought him to his mother, he sat on her knees till noon, and then died."

Extract from the Iowa Register of Deaths:

"Christie Bessire, male [sic], white, age 7, died Dec 18, 1893 at 4 p.m. in Modale of pneumonia, single, American, born Modale. Burial: Rose Hill, December 20, 1893."