History: Family: Descendants of James LAIRD: Cumberland Co, PA Copyright © 2001 by Tena Hanna. This copy contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives. mjhanna@jps.net USGENWEB ARCHIVES NOTICE: Printing this file by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged, as long as all notices and submitter information is included. Any other use, including copying files to other sites requires permission from the submitters PRIOR to uploading to any other sites. We encourage links to the state and county table of contents. http://www.usgwarchives.net/ ____________________________________________________________ Revised April 2001 Descendants of JAMES LAIRD 1. JAMES1 LAIRD was born Abt. 1686 in Ireland, and died Bef. February 14, 1736/37 in Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He married JANE. She was born in Ireland. Notes for JAMES LAIRD: Source: Will probated December 22, 1741 Will stated 190 acres: surveyed to Jane "Lard" widow of James Lard, February 14, 1737 volume 117, book "C" page 135, Derry Twp. Dauphin County, then Lancaster Co. SOURCE: Disposition of Captain William Laird Capt. Laird being sworn according to Law, deposeth & saith, that about forty-two years agone he came into America in the company of his Father and Mother & Family & upon their landing at Cecil Court house his father sent Hugh Laird, one of his sons & a servant man up to the Swatara for his son-in-law, William Snoddy (whom he tho't was then alive) to come down and help him & his family up; & upon their coming where said Snoddy lived, they found he was dead & his widow was about to be married to James Ireland & as soon as they married , they came & helped the said Laird and his family up to where the said Snoddy formerly lived, where this deponent lived three years & lived in the neighborhood ever since. And when he (this deponent ) came there he saw three fields of Upland cleared on the place where the Snoddy formerly lived , being the land now in dispute, to the amount of twenty -five acres & about seven acres of Meadow Ground. This deponent further saith that William Snoddy had two sons then living, Viz: James and John ; that John lived till he was bound an apprentice to learn the Art of Mill Wright & died in his apprenticeship by the discharge of a Gun & that James Snoddy lived till he was about twenty seven years old & died of a Consumption, being sickly several years before he did die. And further saith, that Mary, the widow of William Snoddy, had three children by James Ireland,. her last husband, named William, Elizabeth, & Mary & that William and Elizabeth both died in their Minority. & Mary the youngest since intermarried with John McFarland. This deponent further says that he always heard it as the opinion of the people in the Neighborhood that the place in dispute was the property of the heirs of William Snoddy dec'd and not of James Ireland. Wm. Laird Lancaster county as: Sworn & Subscribed the 9th day of June, 1779, before Joshua Elder More About JAMES LAIRD: Burial: Old Hanover Grave yard Military service 1: Officer during the French & Indian War Military service 2: Commanded a company of Associators in the Revolutionary War Children of JAMES LAIRD and JANE are: 2. i. JAMES2 LAIRD, d. Abt. 1741, Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. 3. ii. MARY LAIRD, b. Abt. 1712, Ireland. 4. iii. JOHN LAIRD, b. Abt. 1714, Ireland; d. September 12, 1777, Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. 5. iv. WILLIAM LAIRD, b. Abt. 1727, Ireland; d. April 11, 1820, Derry, Pennsylvania. 6. v. HUGH LAIRD, b. Abt. 1732, Allen Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania; d. November 09, 1801, Allen Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. vi. SAMUEL LAIRD, b. Abt. 1732; d. September 27, 1806, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pa; m. MARY YOUNG; b. October 31, 1741, Carlisle, Cumberland, Pennsylvania; d. February 04, 1833, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pa.. Notes for SAMUEL LAIRD: SOURCE: SEILHAMER COLLECTION, VOL. 5A, Franklin City PA Historical Society, Chambersburg, PA. Page 313 ...Samuel Laird, brother of First Lieutenant Matthew Laird and uncle of Captain James Laird, died at Carlise, Pa., in 1806. He was one of the first Associate Judges of Cumberland County, under the Constitution of 1790. The name of his wife was Mary; they had no children...... SOURCE: Tax Records: 1751 Samuel in Lurgan Township 1753 Samuel in Lurgan 1759 Samuel in Lurgan, 3 pounds 1766 Samuel in Carlisle with lot and cow 1767 Samuel in Carlisle, lot, horse, cow. 1768 Samuel in Carlisle, lot, horse, cow 1769 Samuel in Carlisle, lot, horse, cow, 2 sheep 1770 Samuel in Carlisle, lot, horse, cow, 6 sheep Samuel in Middleton, 50 warranted 15 clear SOURCE: Pennsylvania Wills, 1682-1834 LAIRD, SAMUEL, Carlisle. May 13, 1793. October 15, 1806. Wife Mary. Rachel Laird dau. of Matthew Laird and Betsy Brown her niece. Three bros. Hugh, William and Matthew Laird. Exs.: Wife Mary Laird, James Laird son of Hugh Laird and Samuel Laird son of William Laird. Wit.: James Brown, James Kenneday. G. 186. SOURCE: Ewing, Conway Phelps, Rev. Dr. HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY (1879): page 90 Samuel Laird, commissioner with James Pollock to collect money from nonassociators and to seize their weapons and ammunition. ..... Samuel was Coroner in this county, 1771 - 1773. SOURCE: Warner, Beers & Co., History of Cumberland and Adams Counties (1886), the Cumberland County section: page 99: March 3, 1781, Samuel Laird and William Lyon were appointed auditors of depreciated accounts of pay due this county's Revolutionary War soldiers. page 136: Samuel Laird was one of the four new associate judges of the county (state's Constitution of 1790) page 147: County's courts presided over from Jan., 1785 to Jan., 1786, by Samuel Laird and his associate justices. page 200: Samuel Laird, Treasurer of Dickinson College, 1784-1790 page 332: Samuel Laird's tombstone inscription at Silver Spring. He died in Sept. 1806, in 74th year, refers to his 1777 and 1791 appointments, two quatrains of elegy. SOURCE: Meeting House Springs Graveyard: Near Carlisle, Cumberland Co, PA Laird, Samuel d. 9-27-1806, age 70y, Esq. [age 74] SOURCE: Cumberland County Historical Society - Card Catalog Will source G 186 May 13, 1793 October 15, 1806 Oaths of witnesses, October 1 and 15, 1806 SOURCE: Cumberland County Historical Society - Card Catalog LAIRD, Samuel, Esq. Cumberland Register: -- Died on the 27th ult. after a short illness, in the 74th year of his age, Samuel Laird Esq., one fo the Associate Judges for Cumberland county; and on the day following his remains were interred in the old burying-ground. Kline's Gazette (Carlisle), Friday, October 4 (sic for 3 1806) LAIRD, Samuel, Esq. Departed this life..(same as above) Cumberland Register (Carlisle, Tues., Sept. 30, 1806) SOURCE: Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Slaveholders and Slaves Slaveholder Name Laird, Samuel, Esquire City or Township Carlisle Occupation Notes Slave Name Rachel Slave Age Slave Gender Female Slave Date of Birth 1802-April 07 Slave Description Negro Slave Status Slave to age 28 Slave Notes Date of Record 1802 Source: Registrations of Children of Slaves Slave Name Doll Slave Age 01 Slave Gender Female Slave Date of Birth 1793-September 06 Slave Description Slave Status Slave to age 28 Slave Notes 1794 Registration lists Doll's mother as "Dina." Date of Record 1794 Source: Registrations of Children of Slaves More About SAMUEL LAIRD: Burial: September 1806, Silver Spring Church Cemetery, age 74 years Elected Office: Bet. 1784 - 1790, Treasurer of Dickinson College Occupation 1: 1790, first Associate Judges of Cumberland County, under the Constitution of 1790 Occupation 2: March 03, 1781, appointed auditor of depreciated accounts for county's Rev. War Soldiers Will: May 13, 1793, Proved October 15, 1806 Notes for MARY YOUNG: SOURCE: Meeting House Springs Graveyard: Near Carlisle, Cumberland Co, PA Laird, Mary D. 2-4-1833, b. 10-31-1741, W/O Samuel Esq.; D/O James Young SOURCE: Cumberland County Historical Society - Card Catalog Will source K 337-39 July 16, 1825: codicils, May 8 and 15, 1827 February 23, 1833 LAIRD, Mary, Mrs. Died on Monday last, Mrs. Mary Laird, relict of Judge Laird, deceased, aged about 94 years. Carlisle Republican, Thursday, February 7, 1833 LAIRD, Mary, Mrs. Died yesterday in this borough, at the advanced age of 98 years, Mrs. Mary Laird, relict of the late Hon. Samuel Laird, of this place, deceased. Carlisle Herald, Tuesday February 5, 1833 LAIRD, Mary, Mrs. Died Monday last, Mrs. Mary Laird, relict of the late Hon. Samuel Laird of this borough, and said to be at least 100 years old. American Volunteer (Carlisle), Thurs., February 7, 1833 More About MARY YOUNG: Will: 1825, Codicils 1827, 1833, ref. K 337-39 vii. MATTHEW LAIRD. Generation No. 2 2. JAMES2 LAIRD (JAMES1) died Abt. 1741 in Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He married JEAN. Children of JAMES LAIRD and JEAN are: i. MAREY3 LAIRD, b. Bef. 1741, Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. ii. DEAIND LAIRD, b. Bef. 1741, Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. 3. MARY2 LAIRD (JAMES1) was born Abt. 1712 in Ireland. She married (1) JAMES IRELAND. She married (2) WILLIAM SNODDY Abt. 1732. He was born Abt. 1710, and died Bef. 1736. Notes for MARY LAIRD: Source Egles notes pages 179, 180 & 216 Death of James Ireland reported to be September 1767, but name of wife was reported to be Ann in Egles notes historical and genealogical on page 277 Page 211 lists Mary Laird as the widow of James Ireland in 1771. Notes for WILLIAM SNODDY: Source: Dispostion of William Laird Capt. Laird being sworn according to Law, deposeth & saith, that about forty-two years agone he came into America in the company of his Father and Mother & Family & upon their landing at Cecil Court- house his father sent Hugh Laird, one of his sons & a servant man up to the Swatara for his son-in-law, William Snoddy (whom he tho't was then alive) to come down and help him & his family up; & upon their coming where said Snoddy lived, they found he was dead & his widow was about to be married to James Ireland ..... Children of MARY LAIRD and WILLIAM SNODDY are: i. JAMES3 SNODDY, b. Abt. 1733; d. Abt. 1750. Notes for JAMES SNODDY: Source: Disposition of William Laird .... that James Snoddy lived till he was about twenty seven years old & died of a Consumption, being sickly several years before he did die. ...... ii. JOHN SNODDY, b. Abt. 1734; d. Bef. 1750. Notes for JOHN SNODDY: Source: The disposition of William Laird: ........ that John lived till he was bound an apprentice to learn the Art of Mill Wright & died in his apprenticeship by the discharge of a Gun....... Children of MARY LAIRD and JAMES IRELAND are: iii. WILLIAM3 IRELAND, b. Aft. 1737; d. Abt. 1750. iv. ELIZABETH IRELAND, b. Aft. 1737; d. Abt. 1750. v. MARY IRELAND, m. JOHN MCFARLAND. 4. JOHN2 LAIRD (JAMES1) was born Abt. 1714 in Ireland, and died September 12, 1777 in Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He married AGNES BLACK August 17, 1738, daughter of HUGH BLACK. She was born Abt. 1717 in Pennsylvania, and died March 04, 1779 in Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Notes for JOHN LAIRD: Derry Presbyterian Church Hershey (formerly Derry), Dauphin (formerly part of Lancaster) County, Pennsylvania Source: Bible Record of John Laird and wife Agnes Black of Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and of their son William Laird and wife Elizabeth Crawford of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania John Laird and Agnes Black of Derry Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Bible Record. John & Agness Laird Married ye 17th Agust A. D. 1738 Hugh Laird Born ye 21th June A. D. 1742 James Laird Born ye 21th of November A. D. 1744 Elisabeth Born ye 16th of March A. D. 1748 inns? and 29th of the moons age at 6 0 Clock afternoon Mary Born ye 8th of February A. D. 1750 Jean Born ye 12th of October & 6th of ye moons age A. D. 1752 Near 12 O Clock on Thursday John Born ye 13th of April A. D. 1755 Sunday at 6 O Clock fornon & 3 Day of the moons age Samuel Born ye 13th of November A. D. 1759 William Born ye 1th Day of March A. D. 1762 More About JOHN LAIRD: Age at Death (Facts Pg): 63 Burial: Derry Presbyterian church, Dauphin (Formerly Lancaster) Pennsylvania More About AGNES BLACK: Age at Death (Facts Pg): 62 Burial: Derry Presbyterian church, Dauphin (Formerly Lancaster) Pennsylvania Children of JOHN LAIRD and AGNES BLACK are: 7. i. HUGH3 LAIRD, b. June 21, 1742, York County, Pennsylvania. ii. JAMES LAIRD, b. November 21, 1744. iii. ELIZABETH LAIRD, b. March 16, 1747/48. More About ELIZABETH LAIRD: Birthdate: March 16, 1748 iv. MARY LAIRD, b. February 08, 1749/50. More About MARY LAIRD: Birthdate: February 08, 1750 v. JEAN LAIRD, b. October 12, 1752. vi. JOHN LAIRD, b. April 13, 1755. vii. SAMUEL LAIRD, b. November 13, 1759. 8. viii. WILLIAM LAIRD, b. March 01, 1762. 5. WILLIAM2 LAIRD (JAMES1) was born Abt. 1727 in Ireland, and died April 11, 1820 in Derry, Pennsylvania. He married (1) MARTHA WILSON, daughter of THOMAS WILSON and MARY. She was born November 16, 1730 in Ireland, and died in Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pa.. He married (2) CATHERINE SPENCER. Notes for WILLIAM LAIRD: SOURCE: Tax Records: 1763 William in Hopewell, one pound 1766 William in Hopewell owning 50 acres unwarranted (Located) with James Lytle 1767 William, a tailor, in Hopewell, 2 cattle, 5 sheep 1768 William in Hopewell 50 unwarranted, 10 clear, 2 horses, 3 cows, 10 sheep 1769 William in Hopewell, 150 located 20 clear, 2 horses, 2 cows, 2 sheep 1770 William in Hopewell, 100 located, 20 clear, 1 horse, 2 cows SOURCE: Rupp, Isreal Daniel, History of Cumberland, Dauphin,...counties, Pa. (1846) Page 207: William Laird, taxed in 1750 in West End of Hanover now Dauphin Co. More About WILLIAM LAIRD: Burial: Old Hanover Grave yard Notes for MARTHA WILSON: More About MARTHA WILSON: Fact 1: Buried in Carlisle, Pa. Cemetery. Children of WILLIAM LAIRD and MARTHA WILSON are: i. JANE JENNET3 LAIRD, b. March 24, 1764; m. JONATHAN HOLMES JR., April 19, 1781. ii. MARGARET LAIRD, b. 1756. iii. ELIZABETH LAIRD, b. 1759; m. MCCLURE. iv. SAMUEL LAIRD, b. February 15, 1769, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pa.; d. January 15, 1815, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; m. ELIZABETH MONTGOMERY; b. July 17, 1768; d. October 12, 1814, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Notes for SAMUEL LAIRD: Egles notes pge 358, 450, 451 and page 359 for Samuel and Elizabeth Montgomery Laird. Additonal information onpage 454 re: selling shares in Presque Isle Co. to John Wilkins More About SAMUEL LAIRD: Burial: Harrisburg Cemetery, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania v. MATTHEW LAIRD, b. Abt. 1755. vi. JAMES LAIRD, b. Abt. 1761; d. January 15, 1846, Madison Township, Columbia County, Pennsylvania; m. SARAH WATSON; b. January 21, 1772; d. August 22, 1851. vii. RACHEL LAIRD, b. Abt. 1765; m. MOSES LAIRD, April 04, Dauphin county, Pennsylvania. viii. THOMAS LAIRD, b. June 10, 1767; d. 1834. ix. WILLIAM LAIRD, b. June 03, 1771; d. Abt. 1840, Ohio. Notes for WILLIAM LAIRD: Moved to Ohio x. MARTHA LAIRD, b. Abt. 1773; m. GEORGE CLARK. Child of WILLIAM LAIRD and CATHERINE SPENCER is: 9. xi. MARY3 LAIRD, b. April 18, 1750; d. December 13, 1842. 6. HUGH2 LAIRD (JAMES1) was born Abt. 1732 in Allen Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and died November 09, 1801 in Allen Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. He married ANN STUART, daughter of ARTHUR STUART and DINAH. She was born Abt. 1740 in East Pennsboro, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and died Bef. December 28, 1809 in Allen Township, Cumberland County, PAPennsylvania. Notes for HUGH LAIRD: Source: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 - 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.................... Four Laird Brothers, Hugh, Samuel, William and Matthew, settled in the Cumberland Valley before 1762. Hugh Laird, apparently the eldest of the Laird brothers, was probably the father of Captain James Laird. He was a farmer in Allen township, Cumberland County, PA, the name of his wife was Ann. He died in 1801 and his wife in 1809. Their children were Arthur, Samuel, James, Stewart, William, and a daughter, Jane.............. Source: Will Book DF 27-28 transcribed from photocopy of Last Will & Testament of Hugh Laird dec'd Page 241 Last will & Testament Hugh Laird dec'd Know all men by these presents that I Hugh Laird of Allen Township Cumberland County and state of Pennsylvania being now of an advanced age and knowing that it appointed for all men once to die do make and ordain this my last Will and Testament. First of all do commend my Soul to that Almighty God who gave it, and my Body to the Earth to be buried in a Christian manner at the discretion of my Executors and as for what worldly substance I am or may be possessed of I do dispose of it in the following manner, First of all it is my will that my loving wife Anna, shall have one third my personal Estate free from any deduction also after the land is sold that she shall have the interest of four hundred pounds during life and the disposal there of at her decease also it is my will that my real estate be sold as soon as convenient after my decease and I do hereby empower my Executors for to sell and convey the same as soon as they think they have a suitable opportunity as full and as amply as I myself might or could have done and then the residue of my Estate to be divided in the following manner after all my Debts and funeral expenses are paid viz: It is my Will that my Son Arthur shall have three hundred pounds more than my Son Samuel also his horse and Saddle and Such things as are usually called his and that my daughter Jane and my Son Stewart shall have one hundred pounds each besides what they have already got and my Son William one hundred and fifty pounds which said legacies I allow to be paid within four years after the land is sold the residue I do allow to be equally divided between my Sons Arthur and Samuel considering my Son James as having already received his share and allowing to Samuel such things as are usually called his the grey mare excepted and finally I do name, make constitute and appoint my son James Laird my son in law William McMeen to be the Executors of this my last Will and Testament, and I do publish pronounce and declare this to be my last will and Testament In witness where of I have hereto set my hand and seal this twenty seventh day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven Hundred and Ninety Seven Signed Sealed published and pronounced by the said Hugh Laird as his Last Will and Testament in the presence of William Wallace, John Bell, Samuel Laird Hugh Laird (seal) Be it remembered that on the 9th day of November A. D. 1801 the Last Will and Testament of Hugh Laird dec'd (Late of Allen Township) of which the foregoing Record is a true copy was legally proved and letters testamentary with a copy of the Will annexed issued the same day in common form to James Laird one of the Executors therein mentioned Inventory and account to be exhibited in the Registors office in the Borough of Carlisle in the time appointed by Law Witness my Hand Geo. Kline, Register SOURCE: WILLIAM AND JANE (JENNET) HOLMES IRWIN OF Union County, Pennsylvania, including a study of their ancestors of Lancaster County, Dauphin County, and Cumberland County, Pennsylvania: also their descendents of Pennsylvania, Missouri and other states: 1980 Editor: Helen A. Bull Hugh Laird, Esq, Cumberland Co. PA 250 Acres in West Pennsboro Twp. , in 1780 255 Acres Grist Mill and Still, in 1781, in Allen Township 250 Acres in West Pennsboro Twp. 1785 SOURCE: Tax Records: 1751, Hugh in Middleton Township, Cumberland County, PA., Hugh (probably the same man) freeman in Carlisle or Middleton. 1753 Hugh in East Pennsborough. We have no records from 1754 to 1757, and the early ones (1750-1753 ) only hit each township either once or twice, presumably because the assessors used the same records more than one year. 1758 Hugh in East Pennsborough, land rent, 7 pounds 1762 Hugh in Allen Township, 100 acres patented, five pounds 1765 Hugh in Allen with 200 acres patented of which 50 clear 1766 Hugh in Allen, 240 pat. 40 clear, 2 mills, 3 horses, 3 cows, 10 sheep....." SOURCE: Ewing, Conway Phelps, Rev. Dr. HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY (1879): Page 90: Hugh Laird, one of the 34 justices chosen for the new county board by state Executive Council, June, 1777; was not one of the 8 who refused to serve. SOURCE: Warner, Beers & Co., History of Cumberland and Adams Counties (1886), the Cumberland County section: page 209 Hugh Laird, one of the trustees of Silver Spring Church by Act of Assembly, Sept. 25, 1786. Page 278: Laird family one of the earliest in Frankford Township. Page 331: Laird was an early Silver Spring Church Family SOURCE: U. S. Federal Census 1800 Hugh Laird, page 132, Cumberland county, Pa. 01101-0000100 SOURCE: Tax Lists: 1751 Assessment List - Derry Township, Lancaster Co, PA LAIRD, Hugh LAIRD, John SOURCE: Stewart Clan Magazine involved in the deeding of land on Yellow Beeches Creek in Lancaster county, from the estate of Arthur Stewart in 1755 More About HUGH LAIRD: Church Service: September 25, 1786, Trustee of Silver Spring Church by Act of Assembly Occupation: 1777, one of the 34 justices chosen for the new county board by state Executive Counci Will: February 27, 1797, Proved November 9, 1801 Notes for ANN STUART: SOURCE: Cumberland County Court House, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Book H of Wills, pages 26 & 27 Will and Testament Ann Laird, Dec'd In the name of God amen I Ann Laird of Allen Township Cumberland County and State of Pennsylvania being sick and weak in body but of sound mind memory and understanding (blessed be God for the same) and considering the uncertainty of this transitory life do make and Publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following to wit principally and first of all I commend my immortal soul into the hands of God who gave it and my Body to the Earth to be buryed in a decent and Christian like manner at the discretion of my Executors herein after named as to such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased God to bless me in this life. I give and dispose of the same in the following manner to wit First it is my will and I do order that all my just debts and funeral expenses be duly paid and satisfied as soon as conveniently can be after my decease. Item. I give and bequeath to my son William Laird One Hundred and Fifty Pounds. Item. I give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Ann McMeen my Bed and Bedding. Item. I give and bequeath to my Grand daughter Grizzel McMeen my case of drawers. Item. I give and bequeath to my son Arthur Laird and my daughter Jenny McMeen the residue of my Estate to be equally divided between them and lastly I nominate constitute and appoint my Son James Laird and Benjamin Anderson of the County and State aforesaid to be the Executors of this my will hereby revoking all other wills legacies and bequeaths by me heretofore made and declaring this to be my last will and testament in witness where of I have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixth day of December in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight Hundred and Five. (her mark) Ann Laird (Seal) Signed sealed published pronounced and declared by the said testatrix as her last will and testament in the presence of us who in her presence and at her request have subscribed as witnesses James Legget Jr. John Lutz Be it remembered that on the 28th day of December A. D. 1809 the Last Will and Testament of Ann Laird late of Allen Township deceased was loyally proved of which the foregoing record is true copy and letters Testamentary in common form issued with a copy of the will (annesecd)(spelling???) to James Laird one of the executors therein named Benjamin Anderson the other Executor having renounced Inventory and account to be exhibited into the Registers office in the time appointed by Law. Witness Geo. Kline, Register Source: The Stewart Clan Magazine. The magazine was published over the years 1929-1970. Edited by a George Edson, who traveled around the country looking for Stewarts. He examined old land records, probated wills in court houses, and various local genealogical books. He also published notes that various Stewart descendants sent to him. In the Stewart Clan Magazine it states that Ann Stewart married Hugh Laird. She was the daughter of Arthur and Dinah Stewart of East Pennsboro township, Cumberland county. Arthur and some of his sons were the first settlers of a place called Yellow Breeches Creek. In the magazine there is also information on the will of Arthur Stewart, one of the executors was Hugh Laird. Arthur Stewart died in 1750. More About ANN STUART: Will: December 06, 1805, Probated December 28, 1809 Children of HUGH LAIRD and ANN STUART are: i. WILLIAM3 LAIRD, b. Allen Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania. 10. ii. CAPTAIN JAMES LAIRD, b. December 12, 1753, West Pennsboro Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania; d. October 10, 1834, Newville, Cumberland, Pennsylvania. iii. ARTHUR LAIRD, b. Abt. 1762, Allen Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania. iv. SAMUEL LAIRD, b. Abt. 1764; m. ANN BELL. 11. v. JANE LAIRD, b. Abt. 1766, Allen Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania. 12. vi. STEWART LAIRD, b. Abt. 1768, Allen Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania; d. Juniata County, Pennsylvania. Generation No. 3 7. HUGH3 LAIRD (JOHN2, JAMES1) was born June 21, 1742 in York County, Pennsylvania. He married MARY. Child of HUGH LAIRD and MARY is: 13. i. WILLIAM4 LAIRD, b. Abt. 1797, York County, Pennsylvania. 8. WILLIAM3 LAIRD (JOHN2, JAMES1) was born March 01, 1762. He married ELIZABETH CRAWFORD April 28, 1795. She was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania. Notes for WILLIAM LAIRD: Source: Bible Record ofWilliam Laird and wife Elizabeth Crawford of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, William & Elezebeth Laird Merred ye 28 April A. D. 1795 John Born Monday 25 of Jenurey A. D. 1796 betwest The our of 3 and 4 in the Morning in the Sine of Lying fifteen Day of Moon Aag. Nanncey Born Monday 25 Day of Jenurey A. D. 1796 betwat the of 4 and 5 in the Moring in the Lying Jane Born Thirsday 3d Day of August in the year of our Lord 1797 between the ours of 8 and 9 O Clock in the Morning Elizabath Borin fridday first Day of November between the ours of 5 and 6 O Clock in the Eving in the of our Lord 1799 Polly Born 14 Day of December in the yaer of our Lord 1801 on a Monday between the ours of 11 and 12 O Clock in the 9 day of the Moon age in the Day. Susanna Born 26 Day of May in the year of our Lord 1809 on a Sunday between the our of 11 and 12 O Clock in the Lyon 27 Day of the Moon Age in the Night Children of WILLIAM LAIRD and ELIZABETH CRAWFORD are: i. JOHN4 LAIRD, b. January 25, 1796. Notes for JOHN LAIRD: ii. NANCEY LAIRD, b. January 25, 1796. iii. JANE LAIRD, b. August 03, 1797. iv. ELIZABETH LAIRD, b. November 01, 1799. Notes for ELIZABETH LAIRD: v. POLLY LAIRD, b. December 14, 1801. Notes for POLLY LAIRD: vi. SUSANNA LAIRD, b. May 26, 1809. 9. MARY3 LAIRD (WILLIAM2, JAMES1) was born April 18, 1750, and died December 13, 1842. She married JAMES HARRIS June 02, 1768. Notes for MARY LAIRD: Source: Egles notes; page 161, and Queries, page 4 Information on Mary Laird and James Harris More About MARY LAIRD: Burial: Cemetery at Lewisburg, Union county, Pennsylvania Children of MARY LAIRD and JAMES HARRIS are: i. WILLIAM4 HARRIS, b. April 28, 1769; d. February 02, 1785. More About WILLIAM HARRIS: Burial: Derry church Yard, Columbia County, Pennsylvania ii. ELIZABETH HARRIS, b. July 18, 1771; d. May 20, 1842. More About ELIZABETH HARRIS: Burial: Derry church Yard, Columbia County, Pennsylvania iii. CATHERINE HARRIS, b. April 02, 1772; d. December 28, 1784. More About CATHERINE HARRIS: Burial: Derry church Yard, Columbia County, Pennsylvania iv. JEAN HARRIS, b. January 06, 1774; d. December 05, 1839. v. LAIRD HARRIS, b. February 22, 1776. vi. ROBERT HARRIS, b. November 22, 1777. More About ROBERT HARRIS: Burial: Cemetery Lewisburg, Pennsylvania vii. SARAH HARRIS, b. September 04, 1770; d. December 30, 1827. viii. JAMES HARRIS, b. June 13, 1781; d. July 01, 1808. ix. MATTHEW HARRIS, b. August 13, 1784. More About MATTHEW HARRIS: Burial: February 13, 1873 x. WILLIAM LAIRD HARRIS, b. May 17, 1786; d. November 11, 1845. 10. CAPTAIN JAMES3 LAIRD (HUGH2, JAMES1) was born December 12, 1753 in West Pennsboro Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania, and died October 10, 1834 in Newville, Cumberland, Pennsylvania1. He married (1) JANE MCCLURE Abt. 1786 in Frankford Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, daughter of ROBERT MCCLURE and MARGARET DOUGLASS. She was born August 19, 1763 in West Pennsboro Township, Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania, and died Bef. 1802 in Frankford, Cumberland, Pennsylvania. He married (2) CATHARINE ALLEN May 1802 in Frankford Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. She was born June 1764 in Baltimore, Maryland, and died January 15, 1850 in Frankford, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania2,3. Notes for CAPTAIN JAMES LAIRD: SOURCE: HISTORY OF THE BIG SPRING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Newville, PA. 1737 - 1898 by Gilbert Ernest Swope, Newville, PA Times Steam Printing House 1898 Page 23 Laird, James 1789 member (head of family), age 34/dist 3/comm. (page 038) Laird, James 1808 member (family members) North Frankford district (page 094) Laird, James 1790 occupant of pew #46 (page 141) Laird, Jane 1789 (member) age 24/dist 8/comm (page 038) Page 117 Laird, James 1808 elder North Frankford Dist (page 94) Laird, James elder, ordained by Rev. Williams (page 150) Source: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania CAPTAIN JAMES LAIRD, a distinguished Revolutionary soldier and a leading citizen of Cumberland County, was born in 1753 and died October 10, 1834. He was appointed Captain of the third company, of the Third Battalion, Cumberland County Associators, Colonel William Chambers, July 31, 1777, and re-appointed May 10, 1778. He was in active service with his company in Colonel Chambers' marching battalion of the third class, under the call of July 28, 1777. He served in the campaign around Philadelphia. Captain Laird became an assessor for Cumberland county in 1777, and was a Justice of the Peace for many years. He was a farmer and owned a farm at McClure's Gap, on which he lived. He was a ruling elder of the Big Spring Presbyterian church, 1808-34. Captain Laird was married to Jane McClure, daughter of Robert and Margaret (Douglass) McClure. She was born in 1763. After Mrs. Laird's death, he was married to Mrs. Catharine Allen, widow of James Allen, of Baltimore. She was born in June, 1764 and died June 15, 1850. Issue by his first wife: 1. Hugh Laird, of whom below. 2. Robert Laird, of whom below. 3. Margaret Laird, married John McDowell, of whom below. 4. Thomas Laird, of whom below. 5. Ann Laird, of whom below. Four Laird Brothers, Hugh, Samuel, William and Matthew, settled in the Cumberland Valley before 1762. Hugh Laird, apparently the eldest of the Laird brothers, was probably the father of Captain James Laird. He was a farmer in Allen township, Cumberland County, PA, the name of his wife was Ann. He died in 1801 and his wife in 1809. Their children were Arthur, Samuel, James, Stewart, William, and a daughter, Jane. Stewart Laird, son of Hugh and Ann Laird, settled in what is now Juniata County, PA., where he died in the winter of 1835-36. His children were Wilson, Priscilla (Mrs. Robinson), Thomas, Hugh, and Samuel. Hugh Laird, son of Captain James and Jane (McClure) Laird, was born in 1787 and died September 30, 1815. Robert Laird, brother of Hugh above, was born in 1789 and died January 15, 1848. He was elected a County Commissioner of Cumberland County in 1842. Margaret Laird, sister of Robert above, was born December 19, 1790, and died May 30, 1855. She was married March 12, 1818, to John McDowell, who was born in 1798 and died January 9, 1829. Thomas Laird, brother of Margaret above, was born in 1799 and died April 19, 1830. Ann Laird, sister of Thomas above, was married March 24, 1824, to James Logan, who was born in 1782 and died October 26, 1828. The McDowell and Logan Families were very numerous in the Cumberland and Juniata Valleys and Western Pennsylvania at the Revolutionary period, but the similarity of Christian names and the absence of authentic records make it very difficult to deal with them. Those that married into the McClure family seem to have been especially elusive. In attempting to trace the family history of the McDowells about Newville in Cumberland County, Greencastle in Franklin County, and the Kishocoquillas and Tuscarora Valleys, the John McDowells are almost as numerous as the John Smiths in other sections. With fuller information, it may be possible to differenciate them so as to establish the parentage of the McDowell and Logan who respectively married a daughter of Captain Laird. SOURCE: Alphabetical List of Officers of the Regular Army (From Its Organization, September 29, 1789, to 1903) Who Were Killed or Wounded in Action or Taken Prisoner, With Date and Place. page 230 Laird, James M., capt 16 Pa inf. SOURCE: Cumberland County Historical Society - Card Catalog LAIRD, James, Esq. Married last week James Laird, Esq. of Frankford Twp. to Mrs. Allen of Baltimore. Kline's Carlisle Gazette, Wed., June 02, 1802. SOURCE: Big Springs Presbyterian Church Cemetery: Laird, Catherine, b. June 1764; d. Jan 13, 1850 Laird, Hugh, b. 1787; d. Sept. 30, 1815 Laird, Thomas, b. 1794; d. April 19, 1830 Laird, James Esq., b. 1753; d. Oct. 10, 1834 Laird, Robert, b. 1789; d. Jan. 15, 1848 SOURCE: LAST WILL & TESTAMENT OF JAMES LAIRD, ESQ. DE CD. (reference # K 402-03) Know all men by these presence that I James Laird of Frankford Township, Cumberland County and State of Pennsylvania living of an advanced age but a disposing mind and memory, and knowing the uncertainty of this mortal life, and the certainty of Death - Do make and ordain this my Last Will and Testament in manner following, .. Item 1st. I allow my body to be buried in a decent manner at the discretion of my hereafter named Executors. Item 2. Debts from funeral expenses and all my just debts are paid. - I will and allow to my beloved wife Catharine her living in the mansion house and be maintained by my son Robert as heretofore by me during her pleasure so to do, and have the direction of the house as she sees prepared (proper) to take it and I allow my wife Catherine all the property I got with her consisting of household and kitchen furniture as also are the books and should my wife choose to live with one of her sons or in any other situation then and in that case she is to be paid a reasonable dowry by my executor. Item 3. I will and bequeath to my daughters Margaret and Anna the sum of ten dollars each to be paid by my executor. Item 4. Item I will and bequeath to my son Robert all the remainder that I may have or coming to me in any way -- Item 5. And I hereby tentunec and quit claim for myself and my heirs in any right of dowry that has or could use in the Estate of wifes former husband James Allen of Baltimore City State of Maryland, Decd. Item 6th. I hereby appoint and constitute my son Robert my Sole Executor to this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former wills & bequeaths, made by me -- In testimony whereas I have hereunto let my Hand and Seal the Eighth day of April One Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Three -- James Laird (Seal) Signed, Sealed Published, Pronounced and declared to be my Last Will and Testament in presence of Andrew Oiler Jr. John Reamer Cumberland County, PA. This 27th day of November A. D. 1834 personally appeared before me Samuel Woodburn, Esq. Register for the probate of Wills and granting Letters of administration in and for said County Andrew Oiler Jr. and John Reamer the Subscribing witnesses to the foregoing instrument of writing and being duly affirmed and sworn according to law, depose and say that they were present and saw and heard James Laird the Testator therein named sign, seal, publish, pronounce and declare the same as and for his Last Will and Testament, that at the time of his so doing he was of a sound and disposing mind, memory and understanding and that they subscribed their names ...as witnesses at the request and in the presence of the Testator and in the presence of each other. Approved, Sworn, Subscribed before me Com. Woodbin Reg. Andrew Oiler Jr. John Reamer Be it Remembered that on the 27th day of November A. D. 1834 the Last Will and Testament of James Laird Esq. deceased of which the foregoing record is a true copy) was legally p.... and that Letters of Administration with the Will annexed once opened on the same day to James Wallace Esq. Robert Laird Sole Executor therein named Lanny ..... Inventory and Accounts be exhibited in the time appointed by law -- M maf my hand James Mc Culloch Reg. SOURCE: WILLIAM AND JANE (JENNET) HOLMES IRWIN OF Union County, Pennsylvania, including a study of their ancestors of lancaster County, Dauphin County, and Cumberland County, Pennsylvania: also their descendents of Pennsylvania, Missouri and other states: 1980 Editor: Helen A. Bull Note includes about 20 pages on Laird Family. Document provided by Cumberland Historical Society, Carlisle, Pennsylvania ......A James Laird, Franklin Township, Cumberland County, PA, in 1834, has money due from the estate of Samuel Laird, Esq. Who died in 1806. Wife Mary, Died 1833. SOURCE: Ewing, Conway Phelps, Rev. Dr. HISTORY OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY (1879): Page 91: James Laird, county assessor, appointed 1777 SOURCE: CUMBERLAND COUNTY REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIERS FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA ARCHIVES INDEX Compiled by the volunteers of the CCHS (Cumberland Historical Society) Typed by Margaret E. MacGregor completed january 1990 Laird, James s5, v6, p202, 206, 207, 214, 796, 609 Laird, Jas s5, v6, p189, 191 page 206 THIRD BATTALION 3RD CLASS, IN SERVICE OCTOBER 1777 (c.) Captain. James Laird, First Lieutenant Timothy Lee, Second Lieutenant. John Graham, Ensign Martin Longstaff. Privates..............page 207 James Laird page 214 -- 3RD CLASS IN SERVICE JULY, 1778 (c) THIRD BATTALION ...... Privates....James Laird.... page 609 -- CUMBERLAND COUNTY MILITIA OFFICERS, 1778.....CAPTAINS.....James Laird page 202 - THIRD COMPANY -- Captain. James Laird, July 31, 1777 SOURCE: U. S. Federal Census 1810 James Laird, Page 195, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, 20200-1201000 SOURCE: U.S. Federal Census 1810 James Laird Frankford Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, page 42 William Laird, Middleton Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, page 64 Matthew Laird, Middleton Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, page 67 SOURCE: U. S. Federal Census 1830 Laird, James PA CUMBERLAND CO. FRANKFORD TWP PAGE 152 1830 Laird, Matthew PA CUMBERLAND CO. NEWTON TWP PAGE 059 1830 More About CAPTAIN JAMES LAIRD: Died 2: Aged 80 years 9 months 10 days Church Service: ruling elder of the Big Spring Presbyterian church Military service: 1777, Captain o the Third Battalion, Cumberland County Militia Occupation 1: Justice of the Peace Occupation 2: 1777, Assessor for Cumberland county Will: April 08, 1833, Proved Novmeber 27th, 1834 Notes for JANE MCCLURE: SOURCE: G. E. SWOPE -Annual 1898, pg. 119-- McClure, of Cumberland Valley I. Robert McClure lived in West Pennsboro township, Cumberland Co., Pa., between the village of Bloserville and McClure's Gap. He had a brother William, mentioned in his will as living in Lack township, Mifflin county, in 1792. Robert McClure was born in 1734, and died in the fall of 1792. His will was made Sept. 20, 1792, and probated October 16, 1792. He married MARGARET DOUGLASS, who died prior to 1789. They were members of the Big Spring Presbyterian Church, in Newville, They had issue: 2 i. William, b. March 31, 1759; m. 1-Agnes McKeehan; m 2-Margaret McKeehan. ii. Alexander married and died near Landisburg, Perry county prior to 1792. 3. iii. Margaret, b. 1765; m. James Sterrett iv. JANE, m. JAMES LAIRD, Esq., b.1753; d. Oct. 10, 1834. They lived in West Pennsboro township. He was a justice of the peace for many years, and an elder in the Big Spring Presbyterian Church of Newville. They had children who died without issue. They are buried in the Presbyterian Churchyard, Newville. v. Agnes (Nancy), m. Arthur Graham, a brother of Rev. James and Judge **ISIAH GRAHAM **d in West Pennsboro township and have numerous descendants in the neighborhood of Newville. vi. MARY, b. 1768; d. Dec 24, 1834; m. SAMUEL MCDOWELL, b.1764; d.April 24, 1830. They lived in the neighborhood of Newville and are buried in the Presbyterian Churchyard of that place. They had issue. vii. Robert, b. 1773 (?) viii. Elizabeth b. 1782 (?) Notes for CATHARINE ALLEN: Source: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.... After Mrs. Laird's death, he was married to Mrs. Catharine Allen, widow of James Allen, of Baltimore. She was born in June, 1764 and died June 15, 1850. Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville borough, Cumberland County, PA. Laird, Catharine d. 6-19-1850, age 85y 7m, mother of Mary & John Source: Cumberland County Historical Society - Card Catalog LAIRD, Catherine, Mrs. Died Thursday morning, the 13th inst., at the residence of her son, James W. Allen, in Newton Township, of cancer in the face, Mrs. Catherine Laird, aged 85 years and 7 months, widow of James Laird of this county, and formerly widow of James Allen of Baltimore, maryland. Baltimore papers please copy. Carlisle Herald, Wednesday, June 26, 1850 LAIRD, Catherine, Mrs. Died on the 13th inst., at the residence of her son, James W. Allen, in Newton Township, Mrs. Catharine Laird aged 65 years and 7 months. Shippensburg Weekly News, Thursday, June 27, 1850. In announcing the death of Mrs. Catharine Laird last week a mistake inadvertently occurred in the age. It should have been eighty-five, instead of sixty-five years. Weekly News, July 4, 1850 Laird, Catharine d. 6-19-1850, age 85y 7m, mother of Mary & John Children of JAMES LAIRD and JANE MCCLURE are: i. JUDGE HUGH4 LAIRD4, b. January 08, 1787, Frankford Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania; d. September 30, 1815, Frankford Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania4. Notes for JUDGE HUGH LAIRD: Notes: From Matthew Henry Exposition Family History Page, Deaths, James Laird McDowell I, wrote Hugh Laird Died Sept. 30, 1815 37 years 8 months 22 days. SOURCE: Cumberland County Historical Society - Card Catalog LAIRD, Hugh Died on Saturday last, after a severe and lingering indisposition, which he bore with Christian fortitude, in the 28th year of his age, son of James Laird, Esq. of Frankford Twp. Carlisle Herald, Thurs., Sept. 28, 1815, extra. on microfilm only SOURCE: Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville borough, Cumberland County, PA. Laird, Hugh d. 9-30-1815, age 28y More About JUDGE HUGH LAIRD: Died 2: Aged 37 years 8 months 22 days Fact 1: Judge Common Pleas at Carlisle ii. ROBERT LAIRD4, b. November 11, 1788, Frankford, Cumberland, Pennsylvania; d. January 15, 1848, Frankford, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania4. Notes for ROBERT LAIRD: This was written by Tena Knox McDowell in her family tree: " ...Father gave my Laird (James Laird McDowell) his silver headed hickory can, Marked R. L...." Note: Father in the above refers to James Laird McDowell's father, James Laird McDowell. The R. L. initials were those of Robert Laird. SOURCE: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania................. Robert Laird, brother of Hugh above, was born in 1789 and died January 15, 1848. He was elected a County Commissioner of Cumberland County in 1842............. SOURCE: LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF ROBERT LAIRD Last will & Testament of Robert Laird, De cd. I Robert Laird of Frankford township being now in infirmed health, but of sound and disposing mind and memory for which I desire to express thankfulness to declare this to be my last Will and Testament. I give, bequeath and desire to my sister Margaret McDowell and to her heirs and assign all my estate and personal and material of whatsoever kind or whatsoever estate. And in the event of her death before me I bequeath and desire the same to my nephews and nieces John McDowell, James Laird McDowell, Samuel Alexander McDowell, Jane McDowell and Mary McDowell and to their heirs and assigns forever in these proportions these my nephews shall each have two shares and my nieces one share and in the event of the death of either before me the share of each shall go to the survivors in the same proportions. And I do hereby appoint my two nephews John McDowell and James Laird McDowell to be the Executors of this my Last will and Testament with full powers and authority to execute any deed or deeds which shall be necessary to carry into effect any contract which I shall have made in my lifetime. Witness my hand and seal 14 July 1847 Robert Laird (Seal) Signed sealed and declared by the testator to be his last will and testament in our presence Fheak Watts John Burkholder Cumberland County, PA This 3rd day of February A.D. 1848 before me Ephriam Comman Deputy for James McCulloch Register for the probate of wills and granting letters of Administration in and for said county personally came John Burkholder, one of the subscribing witnesses to the foregoing instrument of writing purporting to be the last will and testament of Robert Laird late of Frankford Township, deceased, who being duly affirmed according to law doth dispose and say that he was present and saw and heard the testator Robert Laird sign, seal, publish, pronounce and declare the same as and for his last will and testament and that at the time of his so doing he the said testator was of sound mind, memory and understanding to the best of his observation knowledge and that he subscribed his name thereto as a witness at the request of the testator. Ref# L 461-62 Cumberland Historical Society - Card Catalog (The photocopy of this will was black on the left side of the paper and made it difficult to see all of the words, let the reader of this document consider this in reference to the accuracy of this document) SOURCE: Warner, Beers & Co., History of Cumberland and Adams Counties (1886), the Cumberland County section: page 136: Robert Laird, one of the county commissioners, elected 1842. SOURCE: Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville borough, Cumberland County, PA. Laird, Robert d. 1-15-1848, age 57y SOURCE: Cumberland County Historical Society - Card Catalog LAIRD, Robert, Esq. Died on Saturday the 22nd ult., at this residence in Frankford Township, after a lingering illness, Robt. Laird, Esq., aged 50 years. American Volunteer (Carlisle), Thurs., February 3, 1848 LAIRD, Robert, Esq. Died Saturday last, at his residence in Frankford Township, after a lingering illness, Robert Laird, Esq., aged 50 years, who held numerous office in this county. Carlisle Herald, Wednesday, January 26, 1848 More About ROBERT LAIRD: Died 2: Aged 59 years 2 months 4 days Elected Office: 1842, County Commissioner of Cumberland County in 1842 Will: July 14, 1844, Proved February 3, 1848 14. iii. MARGARET LAIRD, b. December 09, 1790, West Pennsboro, Cumberland, Pennsylvania; d. May 30, 1855, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. iv. ANNA LAIRD4, b. December 10, 1791, Frankford, Cumberland, Pennsylvania; d. September 17, 1867, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania4; m. (1) CORP. JAMES LOGAN, March 23, 1824, Carlisle, Pennsylvania5; b. 1782; d. October 26, 1828, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania; m. (2) JAMES DAVIDSON, April 15, 18316; b. 1790, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania; d. September 27, 1858, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania7. Notes for ANNA LAIRD: SOURCE: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania ............... Ann Laird, sister of Thomas above, was married March 24, 1824, to James Logan, who was born in 1782 and died October 26, 1828. More About ANNA LAIRD: Died 2: Aged 75 years 9 months 7 days Notes for CORP. JAMES LOGAN: SOURCE: Big Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Newville, Cumberland County, PA: Logan, James, b. 1782; d. Oct 26, 1828 More About CORP. JAMES LOGAN: Fact 1: He was a Corp. in Captain Taylor's Notes for JAMES DAVIDSON: SOURCE:Genealogy researcher Viola Limric, Cumberland County, PA. James Davidson, died intestate. There may be records in the Orphan's Court pertaining to his estate and I will check this out when I complete the others. James Davidson West Pennsboro Letter of admin. issued 6 Oct 1858, Sureties of $2000.??(hard to read) posted by John Waggoner and Thom. A. McKinney. Estate docket E-279, Inventory 1 Nov 1858, Pg 224, Vendue list 13 Dec 1858, pg 86, Accounting 20 Dec 1859 A-193. SOURCE: Big Springs Presbyterian Church Cemetery Davidson, John, b. Dec. 15, 1786, d. Jan. 9, 1840 Davidson, Eleanor R., b. Apr. 15, 1797; d. Jan. 3, 1877 Davidson, James, b. 1790; d. Sept. 27, 1858 Davidson, Ann, wife of James, b. 1794; d. June 8, 1827. Davidson, Ann wife of James b. 1791; d. Sept. 17, 1867. Davidson, William b. Dec. 2, 1788; d. Aug. , 1843. Davidson, Mary, wife 18, 1796, d. Apr. 3, 1848. Davidson, Alexander, b. June 14, 1787; d. Oct. 1865 Davidson, Jane, wife of Alex., b. Nov. 29 1790; d. Aug. 19, 1879. Davidson, John, b. 1743; d. 1823. Davidson, John, b. Feb. 27, 1772, d. May 10, 1810 Davidson, Elizabeth Young, wife of John b. 1772; d. Sept. 14, 1823. SOURCE: Valley Star, Newville,Pa. December 1858 THE TOMB DIED On the 27th, of September in W. Pennsboro, after a short illness, MR. JAMES DAVIDSON, Sr., in the 68th year of his age. The deceased has left in the extensive circle of his aquaintance, the character of a consistent Christian, and exemplary member of society. v. THOMAS LAIRD7, b. April 20, 1794, Frankford, Cumberland, Pennsylvania8; d. April 19, 1830, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. Notes for THOMAS LAIRD: SOURCE: Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville borough, Cumberland County, PA. Laird, Thomas d. 4-19-1830, age 36y More About THOMAS LAIRD: Died 2: age 35 years 11 months 30 days vi. JANE LAIRD, b. July 26, 1797; d. July 31, 1797. vii. JAMES LAIRD, b. July 26, 1797; d. July 31, 1797. More About JAMES LAIRD: Died 2: Five days old 11. JANE3 LAIRD (HUGH2, JAMES1) was born Abt. 1766 in Allen Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania. She married WILLIAM MCMEEN, son of JOSIAS MCMEEN. Children of JANE LAIRD and WILLIAM MCMEEN are: i. ANN4 MCMEEN. ii. GRIZZEL MCMEEN. 12. STEWART3 LAIRD (HUGH2, JAMES1) was born Abt. 1768 in Allen Township, Cumberland, Pennsylvania, and died in Juniata County, Pennsylvania. Notes for STEWART LAIRD: SOURCE: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania..................Stewart Laird, son of Hugh and Ann Laird, settled in what is now Juniata County, PA., where he died in the winter of 1835-36. His children were Wilson, Priscilla (Mrs. Robinson), Thomas, Hugh, and Samuel. ............ Children of STEWART LAIRD are: i. WILSON4 LAIRD. ii. PRISCILLA LAIRD, m. HUSBAND ROBINSON. iii. THOMAS LAIRD. iv. HUGH LAIRD. v. SAMUEL LAIRD. Generation No. 4 13. WILLIAM4 LAIRD (HUGH3, JOHN2, JAMES1) was born Abt. 1797 in York County, Pennsylvania. He married MARY DAVIS. She was born Abt. 1797 in York County, Pennsylvania. Child of WILLIAM LAIRD and MARY DAVIS is: i. MOSES REECE5 LAIRD, b. July 19, 1819, York County, Pennsylvania; d. March 07, 1891, Kingman, Kingman County, Kansas; m. ELIZA JANE JARVIS, December 05, 1839, Muskingum Co., Ohio; b. August 16, 1825, Baltimore County, Maryland; d. February 16, 1917, Kingman, Kingman County, Kansas. More About MOSES REECE LAIRD: Burial: Walnut Hill, Kingman, Kansas 14. MARGARET4 LAIRD (JAMES3, HUGH2, JAMES1)9 was born December 09, 1790 in West Pennsboro, Cumberland, Pennsylvania, and died May 30, 1855 in Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania9. She married JOHN MCDOWELL March 12, 1818 in Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, son of JOHN MCDOWELL and MARY (MARGARET). He was born November 13, 1778 in West Pennsboro, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania9, and died June 29, 1829 in Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania10. Notes for MARGARET LAIRD: SOURCE: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.......... Margaret Laird, sister of Robert above, was born December 19, 1790, and died May 30, 1855. She was married March 12, 1818, to John McDowell, who was born in 1798 and died January 9, 1829. .................. SOURCE: 1840 US Census shows Widow Margaret Laird McDowell living in Eastern Frankford, Cumberland County, PA. She is listed as head of the Family, 2 free white males (10 - 15); 1 free white male (40 - 50); 3 free white females (15 - 20); 1 free white female (40 - 50) SOURCE: 1850 US Census shows Widow Margaret McDowell, age 49, John McDowell 28, male, value real estate $2,500, Jane McDowell, age 27; James McDowell, age 21, farmer; Samuel A. McDowell, age 20, farmer, value real estate, $2,250. Anna Macfarlane; Age 3, Sara L. Minser; age 15, Andrew Pitts, age 18 Farmer. SOURCE: Cumberland County, Pa., Cemetery Records, collected by Jeremiah Zeamer, by Wilbur J. McElwain: Newville-Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard: McDowell Margaret, Comments on headstone, Died 30 May 1855, age 64 years, 5 months, 11 days More About MARGARET LAIRD: Died 2: Aged 64 years 5 months 11 days Burial: Big Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Section 5, Lot 307 Notes for JOHN MCDOWELL: Source: Bettie Morrow on July 13, 1998 went to Newville and viewed the McDowell graves; she gave me the following information: John McDowell - very worn all I could make out is that I think he died in 1857. Below is a reprint of the email from Bettie Morrow, dtd 7/14/1998: .....First, to answer your question about Newville. ..... Newville is a small, old town probably more like a New England village ....... There are no 4 lane highways near the town. All the streets have sidewalks and the houses in town are mostly small, two story - a mixture of those built of bricks and then frame houses majority of these are white. They are close to one another and there are no yards to speak of - at the edge of the sidewalk is the front of the house. Some of the houses look really old, I don't think there is one in town built after the early 1900's. ....where the town ends there are farms.. ... ------ The other McDowell graves are to the left side of the cemetery from where Rachel McDowell is buried and a row or two down..... Maggie, daughter of James L & Mary McDowell - the rest unreadable Mary L, wife of James L McDowell 07 Mar 1836 - 12 Feb 1865 Robert, their son 25 Jan 1865 - 01 Feb 1865 - these two on one marker, Mary must have died from complications of childbirth John McDowell - very worn all I could make out is that I think he died in 1857 Margaret McDowell died 30 May 1855, age 64 yrs, 5 mon, 11 dys one more, but it is totally unreadable By these McDowells are the following Lairds: two markers that are totally unreadable James Laird died 10 October 1834, age 81 Robert Laird died 15 Jan 1848, age 59 one more marker, but can't read .....There is a marker that identifies the location of the original church which is inline with the McDowell burials in this message and to the rear of the cemetery. The cemetery is completely fenced in with a tall, iron fence that is painted black. The new church is within the fenced area and isn't what I would call large, but then again it's not a large town nor is the surrounding countryside heavily populated. If you can imagine a rectangle, the new church and church yard would take up the right 1/3, the cemetery the balance. The old church site would be in the lower left area. The cemetery is well cared for and there are a few trees here and there. ...Bettie SOURCE: History of The First United Presbyterian Church, Newville, Pennsylvania, 1764-1978; compiled Georgia Rife, 1980. "Record of Baptisms by Dr. A. Sharp, 1824-1831" but no dates are given....A John and Margaret McDowell are shown as being baptised in the "Record of Baptisms, by Dr. A. Sharp, 1824 - 1831", but no dates are given. Source: Seilhamer Collection, Vol. 5A; Pages 306 310, Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.......... Margaret Laird, sister of Robert above, was born December 19, 1790, and died May 30, 1855. She was married March 12, 1818, to John McDowell, who was born in 1798 and died January 9, 1829. The McDowell and Logan Families were very numerous in the Cumberland and Juniata Valleys and Western Pennsylvania at the Revolutionary period, but the similarity of Christian names and the absence of authentic records make it very difficult to deal with them. Those that married into the McClure family seem to have been especially elusive. In attempting to trace the family history of the McDowells about Newville in Cumberland County, Greencastle in Franklin County, and the Kishocoquillas and Tuscarora Valleys, the John McDowells are almost as numerous as the John Smiths in other sections. With fuller information, it may be possible to differenciate them so as to establish the parentage of the McDowell and Logan who respectively married a daughter of Captain Laird. Note: there is a conflict with this record and the cemetery records of Big Springs Presbyterian Church, this records shows the birth year for John McDowell as 1798, the cemetery record shows the birth year as 1778 Source: Cumberland County, Pa., Cemetery Records, collected by Jeremiah Zeamer, by Wilbur J. McElwain: Newville-Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard: McDowell, John, d. 6-9-1829, age 55 y. SOURCE: Biographical Annals of Cumberland County Pennsylvania -- containing Biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens and of many of the early settled families. -- illustrated -- Chicago, The Genealogical Publishing Co. 1905, pages 23 ....John McDowell, a native of the county and a lifelong agriculturist, who lived near North Mountain in the neighborhood of McClure's Gap. John McDowell married Margaret Laird, who was, like himself , of Scotch-Irish descent. ..... Big Springs Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Newville, Cumberland County, Pa: McDowell, Margaret, b. Dec. 30, 1792; d. June 9, 1851 McDowell, Elizabeth, b. Nov. 16, 1797;d. June 8, 1851. McDowell, Mary, b. 1768; d. Dec. 24, 1834 McDowell, Samuel, b. 1764; d. April 24, 1830 McDowell, Mary, b. Sept. 18, 1794; d. April 28, 1863 McDowell, John, b. 1778; d. Jan. 9, 1829. McDowell, Margaret Laird, wife of John, b. Dec. 19, 1790; d. May 30, 1855 McDowell, John d. 6-9-1829, age 51y McDowell, Margaret d. 5-30-1855, age 64y 5m 11d McDowell, Samuel d. 4-24-1830, age 63y McDowell, Mary d. 12-24-1834, age 65y McDowell, William J. d. 12-18-1834, b. 7-27-1808 McDowell, Elizabeth d. 6-8-1851, b. 11-16-1797 McDowell, Margaret d. 6-9-1851, b. 12-30-1792 McDowell, Samuel K. d. 12-8-1862, b. 11-3-1805 McDowell, Mary d. 4-28-1863, b. 9-18-1794 McDowell, John d. 7-27-1857, age 31y 7m 27d McDowell, Agnes E. d. 3-9-1864, b. 10-17-1819 McDowell, Mary I. d. 2-12-1865, b. 3-7-1836, w/o James L. McDowell McDowell, Maggie L. d. 4-7-1884, b. 7-29-1863, d/o James L. & Mary I. McDowell McDowell, Rachel d. 10-3-1893, b. 8-3-1803 McDowell, John d. 7-31-1878, b. 11-11-1801 More About JOHN MCDOWELL: Baptism: Bet. 1824 - 1831, John and Margaret Baptised by Dr. A. Sharp, First United Presbyterian Church, Newville, PA Children of MARGARET LAIRD and JOHN MCDOWELL are: i. MARGARET5 MCDOWELL, b. June 29, 1819, Frankford Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania; m. ISAIAH GRAHAM MACFARLANE11, January 01, 1845; b. Perry County, Pennsylvania; d. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Notes for ISAIAH GRAHAM MACFARLANE: Isaiah Graham Macfarlane was the author of a "Harmony of the Gospels", much used in Sunday Schools. Big Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery Newville, Cumberland county, Pennsylvania McFarlane, Esther d. 2-18-1789, age 19y McFarlane, Patrick d. 3-16-1792, age 65y, a large granite slab McFarlane, Rosanna d. 11-26-1812, age 77y, on slab of Patrick McFarlane McFarlane, William d. 1-29-1802, age 45y, granite slab, 2nd one McFarlane, William d. 1-7-1806, age 2y, granite slab, 2nd one McFarlane, James d. 1-26-1812, age 4y, granite slab, 2nd one McFarlane, James d. 12-16-1807, age 49y McFarlane, Elizabeth d. 3-26-1814, age 49y, consort of James McFarlane McFarlane, William d. 4-5-1811, age 66y McFarlane, Eleaner d. 10-19-1814, age 37y McFarlane, Elizabeth d. 3-6-1816, age 48y McFarlane, Robert d. 4-24-1838, b. 11-15-1784 McFarlane, Clemens d. 4-30-1869, b. 3-20-1798, interred in Spring Hill Cemetery at Shippensburg; See Spring Hill Cemetery McFarlane, Lydia d. 3-29-1846, age 46y 7m, w/o Clemens McFarlane McFarlane, Thomas d. 6-24-1832, age 26y McFarlane, Robert d. 9-14-1847, b. 10-23-1776 McFarlane, Jane d. 3-11-1833, age 45y, w/o Robert McFarlane McFarlane, Jane M. d. 2-1-1882, b. 11-21-1799, w/o Robert McFarlane McFarlane, Robert W. d. 4-16-1845, age 27y Marriage Notes for MARGARET MCDOWELL and ISAIAH MACFARLANE: Perry Historians Perry County, PA -- The American Volunteer (Carlisle) Married on Wed. 1st January by Rev. Alexander Sharp, Mr. Isiah Graham MacFarlane of Perry Co. to Miss Margaret, dau. of John McDowell, Esq., dec., of Frankford Twp., Cumberland Co. 9 January 1845. ii. JANE MCDOWELL, b. January 23, 1821, West Pennsboro Township, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania; d. February 19, 1892, Carlisle, Cumberland County, PA12. Notes for JANE MCDOWELL: Ashland Cemetery: Carlisle, Cumberland Co, PA McDowell, Jane d. 2-19-1892, age 71y Source: McDowell Family Bible states that Jane McDowell died March 1892. More About JANE MCDOWELL: Burial: February 19, 1892, Carlisle -Ashland Cemetery13 iii. JOHN MCDOWELL, b. November 30, 1822; d. July 27, 1857, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania14. Notes for JOHN MCDOWELL: Source: Cumberland County, Pa., Cemetery Records, collected by Jeremiah Zeamer, by Wilbur J. McElwain: Newville-Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard: McDowell, John, d. 7-27-1857, age 31 year 7 months 27 days. Note: another source said 34 years. Grantees McDowell John et al from Margaret McDowell Vol 1, Book YY, page 381, March 1848 recorded 11 May 1848, Frankford Twp. James L. McDowell also included in deed. Note: In the same Cemetery and on the same lot (section 5, Lot 172) as John McDowell, is buried a Elizabeth McDowell, b. November 16, November 1797, d. January 8, 1851 age 54 More About JOHN MCDOWELL: Burial: Big Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Section 5, Lot 172 iv. MARY MCDOWELL, b. October 04, 1824, West Pennsboro, Cumberland, Pennsylvania; d. August 12, 1880, Carlisle, Cumberland County, PA14. Notes for MARY MCDOWELL: Ashland Cemetery: Carlisle, Cumberland Co, PA McDowell, Mary d. 8-12-1880, age 55y SOURCE: McDowell family Bible states; "...Mary McDowell died 1882" More About MARY MCDOWELL: Burial: August 12, 1880, Carlisle -Ashland Cemetery15 v. MAJOR GENERAL JAMES LAIRD MCDOWELL, b. October 29, 1826, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania16; d. December 21, 1904, Elkton, Colorado; m. (1) MARY ISABELLA BLEAN, August 12, 1862, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania17; b. March 07, 1836, Pennsylvania; d. February 12, 1865, Newville, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, 28 years 11 months 5 days18; m. (2) DORCAS ROSELINA COLLINS18, October 10, 186719; b. October 22, 1837, Pennsylvania; d. July 26, 1894, Manhattan, Riley County, Kansas20. Notes for MAJOR GENERAL JAMES LAIRD MCDOWELL: SOURCE: KANSAS VOLUME OF THE UNITED STATES BIOGRAPHICAL DICTIONARY, Published 1879. JAMES L. MCDOWELL, Nortonville James L., second son of John and Margaret Laird McDowell, was born October 27, 1826 in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, and was educated in the common schools of that State. He came to Kansas in 1857, settled in Leavenworth and immediately identified himself with the Free State party, taking an active part in the settlement of those political questions that at the time so fearfully agitated not only the Territory of Kansas, but the entire nation. At the first election held after his arrival, Mr. McDowell had already acquired such prominence in public affairs, that he was elected to represent Leavenworth county in the Legislature, and on the organization of the House was made chairman of the committee on corporations and banks. In 1859 he was elected a member of the Leavenworth city council. At this time the city was making many public improvements, and Mr. McDowell was an efficient member of several of the working committees of that body. The same year he was a delegate to the Osawatomie convention, which organized the Republican party in Kansas; he was also re-nominated for the Legislature but was defeated. in the fall of 1860 he was nominated by The Republicans of Leavenworth city for mayor, against John P. Slough, and the election, though sharply contested, was decided in favor of McDowell, and in 1864 he was re-elected to the same position, the opposing candidate being Colonel D. R. Anthony, one of the strongest men in the city. March 23, 1860, he was appointed by President Lincoln, United States Marshal for the district of Kansas, which position he held until April, 1864. This was during the most trying period of the national troubles, and the post required a man of iron will and great determination of character, and in these qualities Mr. McDowell was not found wanting. In 1861 he was appointed upon the staff of Governor Robinson as aid-de-camp, and in 1863 was created major-general of militia for the State of Kansas and assigned to the northern division. During that year he organized the entire body of militia throughout the state, as thoroughly as such an arm of the service could be, and it was brought to the defense of the State at the time of Price's raid, in the incredibly short space of two or three days. The same year, with the assistance of Governor Carney, he distributed arms and other munitions of war through the border counties of the State, thus enabling the citizens to protect themselves from incursions of the enemy in the State of Missouri. At the completion of his term of office as major-general, he identified himself with The Leavenworth state troops and was elected Captain of Company C, in the 19th Cavalry Regiment, composed of the merchants of the city. At the time of Price's raid he was tendered the position of provost marshal of the city, and also that of aid-de-camp on the governor's staff, declining both that he might be in the front with his company, which was in all the service of those days, participating in many skirmishes and acquitted themselves with credit. In 1864 Govenor Carney appointed and commissioned him commissioner of emigration for the State, which on account of other duties he declined. Soon after Price's raid Mr. McDowell left the State for New Mexico, where he remained a year and returned to Kansas. March 6, 1866, he was appointed by President Johnson postmaster for the City of Leavenworth, which position he held for nearly four years. During his term of office he had some difficulty with the postmaster at Kansas City, and the result was an investigation, after which he received from Mr. Branscomb, special agent for The United States Post-Office Department, the following endorsement: "I consider you one of the best postmasters that I ever knew, one of the few who give their personal attention to their official duties." In 1866 he was nominated as candidate for Governor upon the National Union ticket, and although he had no hope of an election he made a vigorous canvas of the State. His active participation in political matters has not prevented him from finding time for giving all possible aid to every enterprise that promised for the welfare of his adopted State. He was a member of the first state agricultural society, organized in 1860, and the grounds on which the fair was held in 1861, were fitted up under his immediate supervision. He was Chief Marshal of the Fair when held, and has acted in a similar capacity for every fair since then, with the exception of two, and has discharged the duties of that position ably and acceptably. In 1869 he was employed by a company holding a United States contract to supply the Sioux Indians with cattle, and proceeding to the Grand and Big Cheyenne rivers, in about thirteen months he supplied those Indians with fourteen thousand head of cattle, all of which were made to swim in herds across the Missouri river. The tribe to be supplied was one of the most savage and treacherous on the plains; the work was difficult and perilous, but was accomplished to the satisfaction of all concerned. From 1871 to 1873 he was in the employ of the Kansas Central Railroad, engaged in procuring the right of way, and in other preliminary work. In 1873 he moved on to a farm in Jefferson county, where he still resides engaged in farming and stock raising. August 15, 1862, he was married to Mary I. Blean, in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, who died February 12, 1865, leaving one daughter, Margaret L. Mr. McDowell was married October 10, 1867, to Rose Collins, in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, and by this marriage there are four sons, Ralph Ewing, James Laird, David Collins, and Samuel Alexander, and one daughter, Rose Edith. In politics Mr. McDowell is a Republican. In religion, he is a United Presbyterian, an elder in the congregation where he worships, and the superintendent of their Sabbath school. Mr. McDowell has had a varied experience during his twenty-one years residence in Kansas; but in all positions, in the church or in the State, in business life, in military or council service, everywhere he has approved himself a man who has made the interests of the State his own, and refused no service required of him, if thereby he might aid in any way the development of her resources, or improve the character of her institutions. Source: Journal of the executive proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America, 1789-1873 MONDAY, March 18, 1861. Journal of the executive proceedings of the Senate of the United States of America, 1789-1873 INDEX. [Volume XI.] McDowell, James L.: Marshal for Kansas ... 311 Referred ... 312 Reported ... 328 Confirmed ... 337 Page 311 ABRAHAM LINCOLN. Washington, D. C., March 18th, 1861. To the Senate of the United States: I nominate James L. McDowell, of Kansas, to be marshal of the United States for the district of Kansas. Page 312 Ordered, That the nomination of James L. McDowell be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. Page 328 Mr. Foster, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred, the 1 8th inst., the nomination of James L. McDowell, reported. March 25th, 1861 The Executive Journal, Page 337 The Senate proceeded to consider the nominations of Ephraim E. Ellsworth, Henry Hambright, William O. Williams, John P. Baker, Charles Tomkins, Samuel S. Eder, Charles T. Peirce, Andrew Sheridan, Bobert E. Lee, Thomas J. Wood, Frank Wheaton, Edward Ingraham, Eli Long, John Sedgwick, Alexander Campbell, Sidney Luce, George Kyler, Charles B. Lines, William L. Dayton, jun., Charles L. Wilson, Franklin Spaulding, John T. Edgar, John Hanna, James M. Burgess, Archibald W. Campbell, L. Beecher Todd, Lucius C. Walker, Thomas J. Galbraith, Luther E. Webb, and James L. McDowell; and Resolved, That the Senate advise and consent to the appointment of the said persons, agreeably to their nominations respectively. ABRAHAM LINCOLN. April 18, 1864. The following messages were received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary: To the Senate of the United States: I nominate Thomas A. Osborne to be marshal of the United States for the district of Kansas, in place of J. L. McDowell, resigned. U. S. Grant. Washington, D. C., April 19, 1869. To the Senate of the United States: I nominate Mrs. Kesia B. Johnson to be deputy postmaster at Leavenworth City in the county of Leavenworth and State of Kansas, in place of James L. McDowell, removed. ANDREW JOHNSON. Washington, D. C., Jan'y 29, 1866. To the Senate of the United States: I nominate James L. McDowell to be deputy postmaster at Leavenworth City, in the county of Leavenworth and State of Kansas, in place of D. R. Anthony, commission expired. SHORT BIO. WRITTEN BY TENA HANNA: James Laird McDowell was born October 17, 1826 in Cumberland county, and was a son of John McDowell, a native of the county and a lifelong agriculturist, who lived near North Mountain in the neighborhood of McClure's Gap. John McDowell married Margaret Laird, who was, like himself , of Scotch-Irish descent. James Laird was but three years and four months old when his father died, and he remained with his mother, spending his boyhood and youth on a farm in Cumberland county. James Laird attended the district schools and later was a student at Tuscarora Academy, in Juniata County, Pa. It is unknown where he obtained his higher education. James Laird arrived in Leavenworth City, in the Territory of Kansas about the year 1857. According to Cutler's History of the State of Kansas, he served as postmaster, two terms as Mayor of Leavenworth City, helped organize and establish the First United Presbyterian Church of Leavenworth City, served two terms on the board of the Historical and Philosophical Society of Kansas and was appointed Colonel in the State Militia. He served five years in this capacity being promoted to the rank of Major General in the year 1861. James Laird McDowell, married his first wife Mary Isabel Blean August 12, 1862. They were married in the Big Spring Presbyterian Church, by the Rev. Isaiah Faries. They had two children Margret Laird McDowell and Robert Blean McDowell. Mary Isabel McDowell died while giving birth to Robert Blean McDowell, he died a few days later. Records indicate that James Laird McDowell was living in Leavenworth at the time of his marriage to Mary Isabel Blean. I have found no records that indicate to me that she lived in Leavenworth. She and both of their children died and are buried in Newville, Cumberland county, PA. This indicates that he must have come home for visits and lived most of the year in Leavenworth, which was a frontier town at the time of their marriage. James Laird McDowell, married for the second time, October 10, 1867 to Dorcas Roselmo Collins. They started their married life in Leavenworth City, First Ward, Kansas. On October 01, 1868, their first son was born, Ralph Ewing McDowell. The family moved to a farm near Nortonville, Jefferson County, in the Late 1860's and that is where the remainder of their children were born. In 1873, the Hon. J. L. McDowell was the first superintendent of the United Presbyterian Church. The family moved to Manhattan Kansas approximately in the year 1884. Where each of the children received their education at the University of Kansas in Manhattan. Dorcas Rose McDowell, passed away on July 26, 1894. In that same year James Laird McDowell and his family moved to Cripple Creek Colorado in 1894. Rose Edith McDowell was given the responsibilities of her mother. James Laird McDowell died in Elkton, Colorado on December 21, 1904. His occupation listed on his death certificate as "miner". He was taken back to Manhattan, Kansas and buried next to his wife of 26 years. A Major General, District Marshall of Kansas, Indian fighter, homesteader, church founder, Mayor, one of the first members of the Kansas Historical Society, to end his life with a description on his death certificate as a miner. Surely, he was much more than that. SOURCE: Report of the Adjutant General of the State of Kansas 1861-1865, Volume 1, Page 5: State of Kansas - Executive Department, 1861-1865, Governor's Military Staff (Governor Charles Robinson), under heading: Aides-de-camp; James L. McDowell, Colonel, Appointed April 22, 1861 SOURCE: William G. Cutler's History of the State of Kansas, State History, Part 20, Leavenworth County, Governor's Military Staff - 1861-1863. (Appointed under act May 7, 1861.) His excellency Charles Robinson, Governor and Commander-in-Chief February 9, 1861, to January 12, 1863. OFFICE.NAMES.RANK.APPOINTED.REMARKS...Chief Engineer.O. B. Gunn.Colonel.May 8, 1861.( J. L. McDowell.Colonel. April 22, 1861. .....As another evidence that Leavenworth's people were loyal from the very beginning of the Rebellion, the following is related; On the 20th day of April, a rumor prevailed in the city that the rebels contemplated a raid from Parkville and Independence, Mo., for the capture of Fort Leavenworth....... At the same time Capt. Steele gave Major McDowell an ample supply of arms, to be used in the defense of the city. ... Leavenworth County, Leavenworth City, Churches: United Presbyterian Church. In the summer of 1857, the General Synod of the Associated Reform Church sent Rev. B. L. Baldridge to this western country, as a sort of prospector, or pioneer, in the work. He arrived at Leavenworth, July 15, 1857, and held religious services before meeting at the house of J. M. C. Foster, September 4, 1857. At this time it was resolved to organize a church, and an organization was effected by Rev. Mr. Baldridge, Alex, McGahey and wife, Samuel W. Greer and wife, John Hamill and wife, Robert B. Craig and wife, John Hosack and wife, James L. McDowell, ..... The church building, corner of Arch and Fifth streets, was purchased from the Second Congregational society, August 6, 1873, for $5,500 ... Leavenworth County, Leavenworth City, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS: Post Office.-- The postoffice at Leavenworth....Previous to 1874 the incumbents have been...), James L. McDowell, ... As previously stated the Leavenworth postoffice was first opened Mar 6, 1855. ... Leavenworth County, Leavenworth City, MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS: On March 25, 1857, Mr. Murphy resigned as Mayor (having been appointed Agent of the Pottawotomie Indians), and in April, Henry J. Adams was elected to fill the vacancy. Mr Adams was re-elected in September. Among those who have served two or more terms as Mayor of Leavenworth may be mentioned H. B. Denman, 1858, 1859, 1862; James L. McDowell, 1860, 1864; R. R. Anthony, 1863, 1872; Thomas Carney, 1865, 1866; John A. Halderman, 1867, 1870; W. M. Fortescue, 1879, 1881, 1882. ... Leavenworth County, Leavenworth City, SOCIETIES: KANSAS STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. The first incorporated society in Kansas was a historical society. At the first session of the Territorial Legislature an act was passed incorporating the "Historical and Philosophical Society of Kansas." William Walker, of Wyandotte, was the founder of the society, which had for its object "the collection and preservation of a library, mineralogical and geological specimens, historical matter relating to the history of the territory, Indian curiosities and antiquities, and other matters connected with and calculated to illustrate and perpetuate the history and settlement of Kansas." By the act, the incorporators were to organize by a meeting at the capitol within one year from the passage of the act, which time was afterward extended to three years. The incorporators were William Walker, chairman; D. A. N. Grover, David Lykins, John Donaldson, James Kuydenhall, Thomas Johnson, William A. H. Vaughn, L. J. Easton and A. J. Isacks. The times were not propitious for historic work. Much history was to be made before it could be written. At the annual meeting of the Editors and Publisher's Association, held at Manhattan, April 7, 1875, Hon. D. W. Wilder offered a resolution, which was adopted, providing for a committee to organize a State Historical Society, "for the purpose of saving the present and past records of our twenty-one years of eventful history." The following members were appointed as the committee: F. P. Baker, D. R. Anthony, John A. Martin, Solomon Miller and George A. Crawford. A quorum of the committee, with other gentlemen, met in Topeka, December 13, 1875, and organized the society.....Directors elected at the annual meeting January 21, 1879, to hold their office for one year: P. I. Bonebrake, P. B. Plumb, T. D. Thacher, George Graham, C. K. Holliday, George A. Crawford, Samuel N. Wood, Jacob Stotler, C. W. Leonhardt, M. W. Reynolds, A. G. Barrett, Robert Crozier, J. L. McDowell, John J. Ingalls, F. G. Adams, J. M. Harvey, J. C. Hebbard. SOURCE: History of The First United Presbyterian Church, Newville, Pennsylvania, 1764-1978; compiled Georgia Rife, 1980. "Record of Baptisms by Dr. A. Sharp, 1824-1831" but no dates are given. ...The same listing shows the baptism of James Laird McDowell, born Oct. 29, 1826 with parents John and Margaret McDowell. Source: JEFFERSON COUNTY of Cutler's HISTORY OF KANSAS (Pub. 1883) PART 16: Nortonville .........The Presbyterian Church was organized in the summer of 1875, with seven members. Rev. Mr. Lewis was the first pastor. The church was built in I878. The United Presbyterian Church was organized in I873, with about twenty members. Rev. Edward McKee was pastor. The church was built in 1881, at a cost of $2,500. It now has a membership of about thirty-five. The Sunday-school was organized in October, 1879, with about twenty members. It has now seventy-five. Hon. J. L. McDowell was the first superintendent. ..... SOURCE: MCDOWELL/KNOX FAMILY TREE published by Tena Knox McDowell "... Rev. Davidson of Carlisle was an uncle of James Laird McDowell (General) and a note Father left on fly leaf of Mathew Henry's Commentries says, "Uncle and Aunt Davidson bequeathed the Commentaries to his sisters, Mary and Jane. As they had Scott's he bequeathed to his son, James Laird McDowell, the commentaries at his death. Also, a hickory can, with silver top, engraved R. L., formerly owned by Robert Laird. Note: The Mathew Henry Commentaries, were bequeathed to Edgar S. McDowell and upon his death were bequeathed to Tena McDowell. Tena and Arloween McDowell bequeathed these commentaries to Rev. Paul Eugene McDowell. SOURCE: ANCESTRY'S DATA BASE - Kansas and Kansans: Volume 5 Few men now living have a recollection that extends as far back and affords a more intimate view of conditions in the Missouri Valley while Kansas was in its formative condition. At the time of Quantrill's raid on Lawrence in 1863, he and others mounted horses and, heavily armed, proceeded to Lawrence, arriving the night after the raid. They found corpses on the street and houses still burning. They assisted in burying the dead, in extinguishing fires, and for two days rendered all the assistance they could to the stricken town. During the war Mr. Richards was a member of the Nineteenth Kansas State Militia under Colonel Hogan and under Capt. J. L. McDowell. Captain McDowell at that time was mayor of Leavenworth. This company was ordered to Shawnee, Kansas, on the border, remained in camp there about a week, was then ordered to Missouri, passing through Westport and on to Independence, and while along the Little Blue east of Independence the company met the advance guard of Price's army. Mr. Richards served in the battle of Westport, which battle was the turning point, as the southern troops retreated south after this. During this campaign Mr. Richards was detailed to guide the men carrying dispatches from General Pleasanton at Independence to General Curtis at Kansas City on October 23, 1864. During this invasion he was in active service for twenty-one days. Notes taken on visit with Paul and Mona McDowell October 31st & November 1st, 1998 Note: This is the same story that was given to me by David McDowell in the Spring of 1998. This is an oral family history story, that was told by two of the grand-sons of James Laird McDowell. 1. He lead a Survey Expedition and party to Pikes Peak for survey work. On the way the Indians were laying under buffalo skins in the field and as the party passed by they would kill the scragglers at the end of the party. James Laird's hair turned completely white by the time he had returned from this expediton. Source: Ancestry Directory for Leavenworth, Kansas, Voter Registration, 1859 McDowell, J. L. banker Shawnee 18 block Second ward SOURCE: William G. Cutler's History of the State of Kansas, State History, Part 13, MIAMI COUNTY The organization of the Republican Party in Kansas, occurred on the 18 of May, 1859, at Osawatomie. It was the most notable and important political event of the year. The Convention was called to order by T. D. Thacher of Lawrence; Henry Fox, of Shawnee County was elected temporary chairman, and T. D. Thacher, Secretary. The following was the Committee on Credentials: E. Heath, A. Danford, P. Shepard, James L. McDowell, ... Source: The 1875 census of Jefferson Co., does list the family. J. L. McDowell, aged 47, farmer, born in PA., came to KS from PA, Jefferson Township (Note, Jefferson Township included area just east of Nortonville, and subsequently part of that area became Norton Township when it was created in 1880) D. R. McDowell, aged 37, wife, b. in PA, came to KS from PA, Jeff. Twp. R. E. McDowell, aged 6, b. KS (male) J. L. McDowell, aged 4, b. KS (male) D. C. McDowell, aged 2, b. KS (male) E. McDowell, aged 3/12, b. KS (female) Source: In the 1882-83 school year directory, that was reprinted in YESTERYEARS, the Jeff. Co. Gen. Soc. newsletter of April 1992, page 41, we find the following: School District No. 4, (Didde Dist., school buillding, which was (2 miles east of Nortonville) Officers were : Director--J. L. McDowell, Clerk--Ben Weishaar, Treas. Jos. Didde More About MAJOR GENERAL JAMES LAIRD MCDOWELL: Baptism: October 29, 1826, First United Presbyterian Church, Newville, Cumberland Co., PA. Burial: Buried in Sunset Cemetery, Manhattan, Kansas Fact 1: February 07, 1859, Appointed to Scientific and Historical Society of Kansas; on the Executive Com.21 Fact 2: 1860, Second Term on Executive Committee for Scientific and Historical Society21 Fact 3: April 22, 1861, Appointed to Governor Charles Robinson's Executive Staff/ Kansas Militia22 Fact 4: Bet. 1861 - 1865, Aides-de-Camp - Colonel James Laird McDowell22 Fact 5: July 07, 1860, Census James L. McDowell Living in 2nd Ward Leavenwoth City, Kansas, Age 3723 Fact 6: June 11, 1870, Census Shows James L. McDowell married with one son living in 3rd Ward24 Fact 7: June 11, 1870, Leavenworth/ Occupation: Cattle Dealer24 Fact 8: December 21, 190425 Fact 9: January 07, 1859, Incorporators of the Leavenworth Literary Association26 Fact 10: December 21, 1904, Died in Elkton, Colorado27 Fact 11: April 22, 1861, Chief Engineer- Colonel James Laird McDowell28 Fact 12: Bet. 1860 - 1864, Mayor of Leavenworth may be mentioned James L. McDowell, 1860, 1864;28 Fact 13: Aft. 1855, Postmaster of Leavenworth... James L. McDowell Membership: 1860, Appointed by President Lincoln as US Marshall for the district of Kansas. Military service: 1863, Appointed Major General in Kansas State Militia Notes for MARY ISABELLA BLEAN: Source: Bettie Morrow on July 13, 1998 went to Newville and viewed the McDowell graves; she gave me the following information: Mary L. wife of James L. McDowell 07 Mar 1836 - 12 Feb 1865; Robert, their son 25 Jan 1865 - 01 Feb 1865. Note These two on one marker, Mary must have died from complications of childbirth More About MARY ISABELLA BLEAN: Burial: Big Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Section 5, Lot 307 Marriage Notes for JAMES MCDOWELL and MARY BLEAN: .... shows the marriage of "James L. McDowell of Leavenworth, Kansas and Mary Bell Blean (daughter of Robert Blean) of Cumberland Co." on Aug. 12, 1862. They were married by the Rev. Isaiah Faries. More About DORCAS ROSELINA COLLINS: Burial: Buried in Sunset Cemetery, Manhattan , Kansas Fact 1: June 11, 1870, Census/ Dorcas R., Age 32 from Pennsylvania Fact 2: July 26, 1894, Buried in Sunset Cemetery, Manhattan, Kansas Fact 3: July 26, 1894, Death of Mrs. J. L. McDowell29 Will: Dorcas Rose did not leave a will, this is stated in 1903 in a Warrenty Deed. vi. DR. SAMUEL ALEXANDER MCDOWELL, b. October 20, 1828, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania30; d. January 03, 1887, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania; m. HESTER MCCLELLAN, September 12, 1860, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania31; b. Abt. 1830, Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pa; d. Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. Notes for DR. SAMUEL ALEXANDER MCDOWELL: SOURCE: History of The First United Presbyterian Church, Newville, Pennsylvania, 1764-1978; compiled Georgia Rife, 1980. "Record of Baptisms by Dr. A. Sharp, 1824-1831" but no dates are given....The same listing shows the baptism of Samuel Alexander McDowell, child of John and Margaret McDowell, born Oct. 20, 1828. SOURCE: Biographical Annals of Cumberland County Pennsylvania -- containing Biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens and of many of the early settled families. -- illustrated -- Chicago, The Genealogical Publishing Co. 1905, pages 23 - 24 DR. SAMUEL A. MCDOWELL passed away in Carlisle in 1887, and his widow has since resided in that place, where she also had her early home. Through the Doctor lived abroad many years, returning to his native land but a short time before his death, he was well known and much esteemed in Carlisle and Cumberland county, and as a dentist who had the reputation of being a leader in his profession in Europe for many years he enjoyed considerable renown on the Continent. Samuel A. McDowell was born in 1828 in Cumberland county, and was a son of John McDowell, a native of the county and a lifelong agriculturist, who lived near North Mountain in the neighborhood of McClure's Gap. John McDowell married Margaret Laird, who was, like himself , of Scotch-Irish descent. Samuel A. was but five months old when his father died, and he remained with his mother, spending his boyhood and youth on a farm in Cumberland county. He first attended the district schools, and later was a student at Tuscarora Academy, in Juniata County, Pa., after which he took up the study of dentistry with Dr. I. C. Loomis, of Carlisle. His first location for practice was at Toledo, Ohio, but his health failing there he moved South, settling at Goldsboro, N. C. When the Civil war broke out, in 1861, he was forced to flee to the North, and left everything, household goods, office fixtures, and all, to reach a place of safety. They were eleven days and nights getting to their northern destination, at Norfolk, Va., having been refused a pass to the north, so that they were obliged to retrace their steps and go through Tennessee and Kentucky, passing through Bowling Green, in the latter State. They went to Pittsburg, Pa., and thence to Carlisle. Dr. McDowell then went abroad, going to Basel, Switzerland, and practicing there five years and in London, England, for a year. His next move was to Frankfort-on-the-Main, Germany, where he remained, in active practice for ten years, until his return to America. Dr. McDowell was recognized as one of the leading dental practitioners of Europe, and counted among his patrons many scions of the English, German and Russian nobility, as well as famous wealthy families, the Rothschilds among others. Though a successful man in every sense of the word Dr. McDowell remained to the end an unaffected, lovable character, a Christian of the highest type, and a saintly man in all the relations of life. While in North Carolina he was an elder in the Presbyterian Church. In politics he was originally a Whig, but after his return to America he allied himself with the Prohibition party. In 1860 Dr. McDowell was married, in Carlisle to Hester M. McClellan, who survives him, and makes her home in Carlisle, one of the most respected residents of that place. Mrs. McDowell comes from the same family as Gen. John B. McClellan, being a descendant of Sir Robert McClellan, a native of Scotland who was banished from that country because of his faith or political views, and came to America. He returned to Scotland, where he died, but he left two sons here. The McClellans originally settled in New Jersey, later in Chester county, Pa., but John McClellan, Mrs. McDowell's grandfather, was a farmer of York County, owning 200 acres of land. He died there. Mitchell McClellan, her father, was the first of the family to come to Cumberland county, where he was engaged in farming, near Carlisle, to which city he removed on retiring from active life. He died on the homestead there in 1885, at the advanced age of eighty-five years, and his wife, Mrs. Susanna (Black) McClellan, survived until 1890, reaching the age of eight-six years. Her father, Thomas Black, was an officer in the Revolutionary war. Mr. and Mrs. McClellan were the parents of eight children, namely: John S., who is a resident of Philadelphia, Pa.; Martha, who married James Stuart and is deceased; Elizabeth; Jane, who died young; Hester M., Mrs. McDowell; Margaret, who died in 1898, unmarried; James M., who died in Montgomery county, Pa.; and Virginia H., of Carlisle. James M. McClellan left three sons and one daughter: George B., Arthur J., Samuel A., and Henrietta, of Philadelphia. These boys are being educated by Mrs. McDowell. George B. and Arthur are attending Dickinson College, and Samuel A. is a student at the Grammar School. More About DR. SAMUEL ALEXANDER MCDOWELL: Occupation: Dentist Marriage Notes for SAMUEL MCDOWELL and HESTER MCCLELLAN: Valley Star Newspaper Newville, Pa. Cumberland County September 27, 1860 THE ALTER MARRIED In Carlisle, on the 12th inst., by Rev. Elliss, DR. SAMUEL McDOWELL, of Goldsboro', N. C., and MISS HESTER, daughter of MICHEAL McCLELLAN, of Carlisle. Endnotes 1. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Family History Deaths. 2. Egle's "Notes and Queries Relating to PA", Tombstone Inscriptions In the Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville, Cumberland, Co., Pa.. 3. Seilhamer Collection, Vol 5A, Page 307. Franklin County, Pennsylvania Historical Society, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania 4. Egle's "Notes and Queries Relating to PA", Tombstone Inscriptions In the Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville, Cumberland, Co., Pa.. 5. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Marriage Page. 6. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages. 7. Egle's "Notes and Queries Relating to PA", Tombstone Inscriptions In the Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville, Cumberland, Co., Pa.. 8. Seilhamer Collection, Vol 5A, Page 309. 9. Egle's "Notes and Queries Relating to PA", Tombstone Inscriptions In the Big Spring Presbyterian Graveyard, Newville, Cumberland, Co., Pa.. 10. Swope's "History of Big Spring Presbyterian Church". 11. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Marriages. 12. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Family Record Deaths. 13. Cumberland County, Pa, Cemetery Records, collected by Jeremiah Zeamer, by Wilbur J. McElwain. 14. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Family Record Deaths. 15. Cumberland County, Pa, Cemetery Records, collected by Jeremiah Zeamer, by Wilbur J. McElwain. 16. Original Death Certificate, State of Colorado. 17. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Marriages Page. 18. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Family Record Deaths. 19. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages, Marriages Page. 20. Sunset Cemetery Records Manhattan, Riley County, Kansas, Copied by Members of the Kansas Mission and typed by the Genealogical Society, Salt Lake City, Page 160. 21. Kansas Historical Quarterly. 22. Report of the Adjutant General of the State of Kansas 1861-1865 Volume 1 Page 5. 23. 1860 U.S. Census Report Levenworth, Kansas. 24. 1870 U. S. Census Report Levenworth, Kansas. 25. Sunset Cemetery Records Manhattan, Riley County, Kansas, Copied by Members of the Kansas Mission and typed by the Genealogical Society, Salt Lake City, Page 160. 26. Kansas Historical Quarterly, 359. 27. The Mercury, Manhattan 12/28/1904, Page 2, On 12/21/1904 Generral J. L. McDowell age 79 years, in Elkton, Colorado. 28. William G. Cutler, William G Cutler's History of the State of Kansas. 29. LDS microfilm # 1521941, The Mercury, Manhattan, Kansas, Page 1, Date August 1, 1894. 30. History of The First United Presbyterian Church, Newville, Pennsylvania, 1764-1978; compiled Georgia Rife, 1980.. 31. Mathew Henry Exposition - Family History Pages.