Herbert (Herb) Wayne Yordy

Other Events and Attributes:

• USR1: Heart Attack

Notes:

Obit:
Yordy - Herbert Wayne, son of Amsy and Ella (Zehr) Yordy, was born at Flanagan, Ill., Dec. 25, 1928; died of a heart attack at Flanagan, Ill., Dec. 16, 1976; aged 47 y. On Aug. 17, 1957, he was married to Ruth Kenyon, who survives. Also surviving are 3 children (Joe, Jim, and Judi), and one brother (Delmar Yordy). He was a member of Waldo Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held on Dec. 18, in charge of Robert Harnish; interment in Waldo Cemetery.

Husband of Ruth Elaine Kenyon Yordy Ehling Unzicker.

Father of Joseph Daniel "Joe"(Nancy J.) Yordy, James "Jim" (Peggy) Yordy, and Judith "Judy" (Jamie) Tammen.

Grandfather of Jennifer M. (Yordy) Hostetler, Daniel J. "Danny" Yordy, James "Jimmy" Yordy, Kara Yordy, and Sadie Tammen.

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Herbert married Ruth Elaine Kenyon on 17 Aug 1957 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL. Ruth was born on 19 Aug 1932 in Washburn, Woodford Co., IL; died on 13 Feb 2010 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

1. Joseph Daniel Yordy
2. James Dean Yordy
3. Judi Yordy

Notes:

Obit:
Yordy, Amsy Daniel, son of Jacob and Catherine (King) Yordy, was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., April 2, 1901; died at Gridley, Ill., Dec. 7, 1980, aged 79 y. On Dec. 13, 1922, he married Ella Mae Zehr, who survives. Also surviving are one son (Delmar), 6 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and 3 sisters (Minnie Slagel, Edna Stalter, and Erma Guth). He was preceded in death by one son (Herbert). He was a member of Waldo Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held on Dec. 9, in charge of Lester Zook; interment in Waldo Cemetery.

Died:
FAG gives day as 9 Dec

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Amsy married Ella Mae Zehr on 13 Dec 1922 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. Ella (daughter of Joseph A. Zehr and Bertha Steinman (Stahley)) was born on 28 Nov 1903 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 14 Mar 1994 in Chenoa, McLean Co., IL; was buried on 17 Mar 1994 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite

Notes:

Obit:
Yordy, Ella Mae Zehr, 90, Gridley, Ill. Born: Nov. 28, 1903, Flanagan, Ill., to Joseph A. and Bertha Stahley Zehr. Died: March 14, 1994, Chenoa, Ill. Survivors - son: Delmar; 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by: Amsy "Bud" Yordy (husband) and Herbert (son). Funeral: March 17, Waldo Mennonite Church, by Lester Zook. Burial: Waldo Township Cemetery.

Died:
(Gridley)

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• Residence: 1878-1889, Waldo, Livingston Co., IL
• Residence: 1889, Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald, December, 1930
YORDY.--Jacob K., son of Peter and Mary Yordy, was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., March 8, 1853; died at the home of his son Amsa near Flanagan, Ill., Nov. 29, 1930; aged 77 y. 8 m. 21 d. He spent his entire life in Tazewell, Woodford and Livingston counties. On Feb. 3, 1878, he was united in marriage to Kathryn King of Livingston Co., Ill. To this union were born 5 sons and 9 daughters. The surviving children are Edward, Noah, William, Raymond, Amsa, Mrs. S. A. Albrecht, Mrs. Simon Beller, Mrs. Albert Durre, Mrs. Elmer Augsburger, Mrs. Ray Slagell, Mrs. William Stalter, and Mrs. Arthur Guth. The children are all residents of this community with the exception of Mrs. Beller of Wesloco, Tex., and Raymond, of Iowa City, Ia. He also leaves 58 grandchildren and one sister (Barbara Yordy). Those of the family who have preceded him in death are his companion (who died Feb. 2, 1918), also two daughters and four grandchildren. He accepted Christ as his personal Savior in his youth and remained faithful until death. Funeral services were held Dec. 1 at the Waldo Church, conducted by the home ministers, D. W. Slagel and J. D. Hartzler. Burial in Waldo Cemetery.


“Lived at Flanagan, IL, then moved back to Woodford County and lived just north of Spring Hill Farm, Eureka, IL, where Ezra B. and Carrie E. (Good) Yordy lived at the time. In about the year 1918, Katie died at Eureka, IL, so he moved back to Flanagan where most of the children lived.”

Died:
At home of son, Amsa

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Jacob married Kathrine (Katie) B. King on 3 Feb 1878 in Livingston Co., IL. Kathrine (daughter of Christian R. King and Mary Catharina Sommer Baechler) was born on 19 Oct 1858 in McLean Co., IL; died on 2 Feb 1918 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

Obit: Gopspel Herald - February, 1918
Yordy - Catherine King was born October 19, 1958; died suddenly at her late home at Eureka, Ill., Feb. 2, 1918; aged 59 y. 2 m. 14 d. At the age of 17, she united with the A.M. Church and remained faithful to the end. She was united in marriage with Jacob K. Yordy Feb. 3, 1878. To this union were born 5 sons and 9 daughters. Two daughters and 2 grandsons preceded her to the spirit world. She leaves to mourn her sudden departure a deeply bereaved husband, 7 daughters, 5 sons, 21 grandchildren, an aged mother, 7 brothers, 2 sisters and many relatives and friends. Funeral services at the house of her son-in-law, S.A. Albrecht, near Flanagan, Ill., by D. W. Slagel and at the Waldo A.M. Church by C. F. Derstine. Text, Man goeth to his long home (Eccl. 12:5). Burial at Waldo Cemetery. Sister Yordy was one of the committee that looked after the sewing circle ever since it has been in existence until they moved to Eureka about 4 months ago. May the bereaved ones look to Him who alone can comfort.

Birth:
Gravestone date

Buried:
Waldo Mennonite Cemetery

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• USR1: Spanish Influenza

Notes:

Obit:
Zehr.--Joseph A. Zehr was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., Dec. 10, 1867; died at his home near Flanagan, Ill., Oct. 12, 1918; aged 50 y. 7 m. 2 d. He united with the A. M. Church in his youth and remained a faithful member. He was married to Bertha Zehr Dec. 30, 1888. To this union were born 5 sons and 2 daughters (Paul, who preceded him 8 yrs., Milo, Roy, Walter, Lloyd, Ella and Lola). He had been suffering much from asthma bearing it patiently but often expressing the wish of being called home if it were not for his family. On Sunday he was at S. S. and church teaching his class of boys as usual. On Monday evening he was taken down with Spanish influenza, suffering greatly at times growing weaker until Saturday morning when he died. Besides his wife and children he leaves one grand-daughter, two brothers and five sisters. Funeral services at the house conducted by Bro. Samuel Gerber, Pekin, Ill., assisted by the house ministers. Text, I Cor. 5:1-10. Interment in the Waldo Cemetery.
"Yet again we hope to meet thee,
When the day of life is past;
And in heaven we hope to greet thee
Where no farewell tears are shed."

Children: Paul (1891-1910)
Milo (1893-1966)
Roy (1896-1970)
Walter Andrew (1900-1953)
Ella Mae (1903-1994)
Lloyd (1908-1971)
Lola (1908-1993)

Died:
at his home as a result of Spanish influenza.


Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Joseph married Bertha Steinman (Stahley) on 30 Dec 1888. Bertha (daughter of Daniel Steinman and Katharina (Catharine) Birky) was born on 28 Aug 1872 in Tazewell Co., IL; died on 29 Jun 1953; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Farmer
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• Residence: 1817, Munich, Bavaria, GR
• Residence: Abt 1820, Köfering, Bavaria, GR
• Residence: 1836, Hanfeld, Bavaria, GR
• Immigration: 17 Sep 1838, New York
• Residence: 1839, Tazewell Co., IL
• Census: 1850, Tazewell Co., IL
• PURC: 30 Jan 1852, Tazewell Co., IL
• Census: 1860, Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
• Undefined: 1863
• PURC: 10 Feb 1865, Nebraska Twp., Livingston Co., IL
• PURC: 1866, Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL
• Residence: 1867, Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL
• Census: 1870, Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL
• Census: 1880, Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL

Notes:

The Jordi family ancestral village is Steinen, Switzerland. Jordi/Jordy= Jordan/Jordanus, a first name from the times of the Crusades.
————————————

Obit:
“Peter Yordy was born June 12, 1815 in Alsace, France according to his headstone. However, according to official documents, he was born July 26, 1815.
Civil Register, Windstein, Alsace, France (FHL Microfilm #1069482)states "7/26/1815 Pierre Jordi (masculine)born 2 a.m., son of Jacques Jordi (37, Laboureur) and Catharine Schantz of Jaegerthal near Windstein. Witnesses Jean Wolber and Pierre Mathis."

In about 1819, Peter's family moved to Munich, Bavaria, Germany [ Woodford County Tax Records, 1868 located at the Illinois Mennonite Historical Society, Metamora, IL]. He grew up about 20 miles south of Munich. Peter had one known sister, Jacobina aka Philabena. It is possible that Peter had a second sister named Elizabeth, who emigrated to the US in 1849 and married Peter Gerber in 1850. Peter also had at least one brother, Christian Yotty, who emigrated with his future wife Katherina Stalter.

Peter Emigrated in 1838. Peter "Jordte" or "Jodte" from France arrived in New York on the packet ship "Charles Carroll" from Le Havre on September 17, 1838. On the passenger list immediately before Peter's name is the name of Joseph "Heser" (Heiser, 20) and Andrew Burkey (29). Heiser and Burckey were from Hanfield, about 20 miles south of Munich. 

While there is little record of Peter's life immediately after his arrival in Illinois in 1839, it is likely that he worked within the Amish community for an established Amish farmer as a laborer. 

On February 9, 1847, Peter married Miss Mary Birkey, a Mennonite woman with a 9 year-old son, John Horn, at the Dillon Creek Congregation in Tazewell County. Peter and Mary had 8 additional children.

Peter and family lived in Tazewell County until 1867 when they moved to Woodford County, residing 2 miles east of Roanoke on Panther Creek. 

Peter was a member of the Roanoke Mennonite Church and the Panther Creek Church of the Brethren. He was very interested in education and sponsored an English class for Amish children in his home.

Peter died on July 2, 1897 and was buried in the Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery.”
—————————————————
In 1866 Peter purchased 200 acres of land from Andrew Johnson and his wife in Woodford Co. for $8000.

Peter Yordy hosted a private German school, conducted by the one-armed teacher Christian Erismann (1835-1904), in his home from 1870 to 1871.,

Peter’s probate record lists as heirs the following: Lizzie Bachman, Mary Orendorff, Chris Yordy, Jacob K. Yordy, Joseph Yordy, Barbara Yordy, Peter Yordy, Lizzie Erb, Bella Schrock, David Yordy, Mary Zimmerman, Simon Yordy, John E. Yordy, Emma Swartzendruber and Fannie Yeakley--seven of his own children and eight children of John Yordy, Mary’s son from her first husband.

—————————————————
“He (Peter) arrived from the Dillon Creek congregation and he joined the Roanoke Mennonite Church, but was [also] active in the Panther Creek Church of the Brethren....Several of Peter’s descendants are buried in the Panther Creek Cemetery. Peter’s great great grandson, Peter Yordy, was the pastor of the Panther Creek Church of the Brethren in 2004.”
————————————————-

“Peter Yordy (b. 1815) died in 1897 when Amos Yordy, son of Christian, was 13 years old.  The Amos Yordy from northern Illinois was, of course much older (46).  However, I find it highly unlikely that Amos Yordy of northern Illinois had any financial dealings with Peter Yordy (b. 1815).  I have tried to find any kind of evidence of interaction between the Yordy's of northern Illinois and Peter Yordy (1815-1897) and have come up empty.  So it would surprise me if Amos Yordy of northern Illinois had any involvement with Peter Yordy's death in 1897.
 
On the other hand, Peter Yordy Jr. was killed when struck by lightening while picking grapes at the farm of his nephew, Amos Yordy, son of Christian Yordy and Salome Slagel.  Such a death may well have prompted an inquest and Amos may well have incurred some expense since it happened on his farm.  Peter Jr. was moderately mentally retarded.  His sister Barbara was mildly retarded, or at least, mentally unstable. Both were cared for by their parents well into their adult lives.  Peter and Mary deeded their home place to Peter Jr. and Barbara to assure that the children had sufficient assets of their own, and a place to live after Peter and Mary's deaths.
 
In 1901, after Peter Sr.'s death, and with Mary being quite old and apparently senile, and on the brink of death, the Yordy children went to court and had Peter Jr. declared legally incompetent.  The court order described Peter Jr. as "distracted".  The court named his uncle, Christian Bachman (husband of Elizabeth Yordy) as his guardian or conservator [Case file reviewed at Woodford County Courthouse].  Christian Bachman remained Peter's conservator until Peter died in 1909.  Peter was obviously not competent to have a will.  His estate was eventually divided amongst his surviving siblings and the children of his deceased half-brother, John Birky Yordy, who had died in Nebraska on December 31, 1906.
 
In 1915, Peter's sister, Barbara, was also declared mentally incompetent ("distracted").  Her brother, Christian Yordy, was named her conservator until his death in 1922.  At that time, Christian's son, Amos, took over as guardian for a short time. Later, Joseph Yordy's son (and Barbara's nephew) Ezra Yordy acted as her guardian until her death in 1943 [Barbara Yordy Guardianship Procedures, Woodford County Courthouse].
 
Based on the above facts, I believe it more likely that the Peter Yordy estate in question is the estate of Peter Yordy Jr.  And the "Amos Yordy" in question is the son of Christian Yordy and Salome Slagel and the grandson of Peter Yordy. 
 
I have not been able to find a thing on Peter Yordy (Sr.'s) death in 1897.  I have been to the Woodford County Courthouse searching for a death certificate, estate file, obituary, or ANYTHING that would give me some information, but have found nothing on the deaths of Peter Yordy in 1897 or Mary Yordy in 1902.  My belief is that they had transferred all of their assets to their children before they died in return for care during their senior years.  This was apparently a common practice among Amish/Mennonites at the time and was very common among members of the Church of the Brethren (which Peter and Mary attended in their later years).  Such an arrangement avoided probate, etc. I also suspect their funerals were conducted at the Church of the Brethren. It was located less than a mile from their home east of Roanoke. That might explain the total absence of historical documents on their deaths in the Roanoke Mennonite Church records, and the absence of any obituary (which was frowned upon by the Brethren Church.”
————————————————
According to Gary Yordy, a family story says that John's father was a German army officer. "It is possible that John B. Yordy's relationship to Peter Yordy as a foster son would have remained a family secret, were it not for the fact that John's daughter, Fannie Yordy, decided to marry Peter Yordy's nephew, Joseph Yeackley."

"In about 1883, Peter and Mary temporarily moved to the home of their daughter Mary and her husband Daniel Orendorff in Flanagan. Their Roanoke farm home was occupied by their son Christian and his family at the time while a second smaller home was built on the farm for Peter and Mary. In 1884, Peter and Mary moved in to the new home at Roanoke and were shortly joined by his niece, Barbara Jordy and her son, Chris H.--recently arrived from Bavaria." (Gary Yordy)
 
The family is found on the 1850 census of Tazewell County as farmer Peter Yatty, 45, Germany; Mary, 34, Germany; John, 12, Germany; Christian, 2, Illinois; and Mary, 1, Illinois. The proximity of neighbor Uriah Crosby suggests their first homestead was in the northern half of Morton.

“Peter paid $1,400 for 154 acres of land Jan. 30, 1852. The land came in three parcels: two totaling 85 acres in south-central Groveland, and another 70 acres in north-central Elm Grove.

The household of Peter and Mary can be found on the 1860 census of Elm Grove as farmer Peter 'Yarty,' 54 [he was actually 45], born in France; Mary, 49 [she was actually 44], born in Bavaria; John, 21, born in Bavaria; Christian, 11, Illinois; Mary, 10, Illinois; Jacob, 7, Illinois; Elizabeth, 4, Illinois; Philip [Peter Jr.], 3, Illinois; and Joseph, 2, Illinois. Their neighbors (Joseph Heiser, Joseph Ropp, Samuel King, Peter and Christian Gerber) indicate that they probably lived on the north side of Allentown Road, across from Joseph Heiser. The property must have been sold before 1864; the plat map published in that year does not show a Yordy property.

On Feb. 10, 1865, Peter purchased 80 acres of land at Nebraska Township (later Flanagan), Livingston County. The farm was cultivated by John Birkey Yordy 1865-71, then occupied by daughter Mary and her husband Daniel Orendorff, while John moved to Lombardville, Stark County.

In 1867 the family moved onto a 200-acre farm on Panther Creek at Roanoke, Woodford County. It was located about 3.5 miles north of Christian's farm. The household is found on the 1870 census of Roanoke as farmer Peter 'Yottey,' 54, Bavaria; Mary, 53, Bavaria; Christian, 22, Bavaria [Illinois]; Mary, 20, Bavaria [Illinois]; Jacob, 17, Ohio; Elizabeth, 16, Ohio; Peter, 14, Ohio; Joseph, 12, Illinois; and Barbara, 7, Illinois. Peter joined the Roanoke Mennonite Church, but also attended services at the nearby Panther Creek Church of the Brethren.
The 1880 census of Roanoke shows them as 'Peter Yordie,' a 65-year-old farmer born in France, of parents born in France; and Mary, 64, born in Bavaria, of parents born in France. Children living with them include Elisabeth, 25; Peter, 24; Joseph, 23; and Barbara, 19. Mary can be found as an 84-year-old widow on the 1900 census of Roanoke, living with children Peter, 44, and Barbara, 39. On that form Mary (or someone in her stead) stated that she was born in Germany of French parents, and that she came to America in 1847. In about 1884, Peter and Mary moved into the household of their daughter Mary and her husband Daniel Orendorff at Flanagan. The Roanoke farm was occupied by son Christian and his family. “
——————————————————
In December 2007, genealogist Joseph Staker discovered the historic record of Peter’s immigration to America.

Twenty-three-year-old “Peter Jordte” or “Jodte” from France emigrated to New York. He arrived on the packet ship, Charles Carroll, which arrived from Le Havre on September 17, 1838. This individual’s name falls directly in a crease in the paper, making it difficult to read clearly. On the passenger list immediately before Peter’s name is the name of Joseph “Heser” (20) and Andrew Burkey (29) and his wife, Barbara (29) and son Joseph (2). These people are thought to be Joseph Heiser; Andrew Burcky (son of Andrew Birki and first cousin of Peter Yordy’s future wife, Mary Birkey Yordy) and his wife, Barbara Eyer/Oyer and their son, Joseph. Joseph Heiser had lived at Hanfeld, and Andrew Burcky had lived at Söcking. The two villages are adjacent and the town squares only two miles apart, very near Starnberg, and approximately 20 miles south of Munich. The fact that Peter, Joseph, and Andrew emigrated together suggests that they knew each other prior to the trip. Further credence is leant to this theory by their actions after arriving in Illinois. In the 1855 Tazewell County Census and the1860 US Census, Peter, Joseph, and Andrew were all next-door neighbors in Elm Grove Township, Tazewell County.

Birth:
At 3 a.m. Near Windstein - The birth was witnessed by Jean Walter and Pierre Mathis. Birth date from family records is 12 Jun 1815 , and is inscribed on his gravestone.

Residence:
With his parents, “about 20 miles south of Munich”

Residence:
Peter Jordy and wife, with 2 Children homeless-I think he stay short in Hahnfeld and moved from here to USA in 1838 (H. Holly)

Residence:
Near Starnberg

Immigration:
from Hanfeld, Bavaria, GR, to France, where he boarded the packet ship “Charles Carroll” from Le Have on September 17 1838. Peter was accompanied by Andrew Burcky and Joseph Heiser from Söcking and Hanfeld. On the passenger list, the name immediately after that of 'Joseph Heser' falls on a crease. The National Archives and FHL reproduction microfilms appear to say 'Peter Jodte,' age 23.

Residence:
A family story says that Peter worked on the Mississippi River before coming to Illinois. According to Harry Weber in Centennial History of the Mennonites in Illinois, he arrived on Partridge Creek in 1839. 

Census:
Peter age 35, Mary age 34, and children John 12, Christian 2, and Mary 1, were farming.

PURC:
Peter paid $1,400 for 154 acres of land Jan. 30, 1852. The land came in three parcels: two totaling 85 acres in south-central Groveland, and another 70 acres in north-central Elm Grove.


Their neighbors (Joseph Heiser, Joseph Ropp, Samuel King, Peter and Christian Gerber) indicate that they probably lived on the north side of Allentown Road, across from Joseph Heiser. The property must have been sold before 1864; the plat map published in that year does not show a Yordy property.

Census:
Peter Yorty age 54 [he was 45], farmer b. France; Mary age 49 [she was 44], b. Bavaria; John age 21, farmer, b. Bavaria; Christian age 11, b. IL; Mary age 10, b. IL; Jacob age 7, b. IL; Elizabeth age 4, b. IL; Philip age 3 [Peter Jr.], b. IL; Joseph age 2, b. IL. Lived next to Joseph Hieser and Joseph Ropp.

Undefined:
Peter paid $100 to purchase release of his step son John from military service in the Civil War.

PURC:
On Feb. 10, 1865, Peter purchased 80 acres of land at Nebraska Township (later Flanagan), Livingston County. The farm was cultivated by John Birkey Yordy 1865-71, then occupied by daughter Mary and her husband Daniel Orendorff, while John moved to Lombardville, Stark County.

PURC:
200 acres from Andrew Johnson and his wife for which he paid $8000.

Residence:
From Ten Mile Creek in Tazewell Co.

Census:
Peter Yottey age -54, wife Mary age - 53; children:

Census:
Peter, Mary, and children, Elisabeth, Peter, Joseph and Barbara.

Buried:
Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery

Peter married Maria (Mary) Birky on 9 Feb 1847 in Tazewell Co., IL. Maria (daughter of Christian Birki and Maria Anna Gascho) was born on 18 Apr 1816 in Bavaria, GR; died on 13 May 1903 in Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• Immigration: 17 Jun 1844, Le Havre to New York

Notes:

The book 'The Past and Present of Woodford County' spells Mary's name Burkey. Mary is the Maria Birkey Yordy, of whom Myrna Slagell Park says , "During pioneer days in Tazewell County, Illinois, Maria Birkey Yordy (1816-1903) cooked a mixture she called 'pap,’ given to sickly infants with feeding problems. This remedy supposedly saved some babies not expected to survive. The recipe was handed down within the family."

Mary Birky had a son before she married Peter Yordy--named John. (John b. Oct 23, 1838. He married Magdalena King (b. 1842) in 1862. They had 13 children.) She arrived in New York on the ship Baltimore on June 14,1844 with her son from a previous relationship, Johann Horn (who would later be known as John Birkey Yordy)." 

Peter and Mary can be found on the 1880 census of Roanoke as 'Peter Yordie,' a 65- year-old farmer born in France, of parents born in France; and Mary, 64, born in Bavaria, of parents born in France; and four children. Mary can be found as an 84-year-old widow on the 1900 census of Roanoke, living with children Peter, 44, and Barbara, 39. Mary stated that she was born in Germany of French parents, and that she came to America in 1847 [actually it was 1844].

“On February 9, 1847, two and one-half years after arriving in America, Mary married Peter Yordy. That marriage occurred within the Dillon Creek Amish Congregation in Tazewell County, Illinois. A recently identified 1845 Tazewell County Census sheds light on her life between her arrival in Illinois and her marriage to Peter.

In 1845, thirty-year-old Mary “Burgie” resided with a male under 10 years of age (John Horn Birkey) as the head of the household in Tazewell County. Also in the household are a female aged 10-20 and a female under 10 years of age.24 The identity of these two females is unknown. It is probable that the two women were boarders. The listing of Mary as the “Head of Household” suggests that Mary emigrated with significant funds consistent with the relative wealth of her father, Christian Birki. Triangulation of neighbors suggests that after their marriage, Peter and Mary lived in the home where Mary was living in 1845.

Peter Yordy’s wife, Maria Birki (Mary Birkey), and her six-year-old son, John Horn, emigrated in 1844. They traveled with Mary’s brother, Joseph, their cousin, Catherine Kettner, and Peter Zehr on the ship, Baltimore, which arrived in New York from Le Havre on June 14, 1844.23

Immigration:
Mary “Burge” with son Johann Horn on the ship Baltimore (New York Passenger Lists, 1820-1957, 1844, June 17, Baltimore, p.4)
Also on the ship were Peter Zerr 25; Jospeh Burger 26; Catharina Kunder 27.

Buried:
Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery

Notes:

Married:
In the Amish Dillon Creek congregation.

Other Events and Attributes:

• Immigration: 1847

Notes:

Obit:
Christian was born on the Glasthalerhof in Baden Germany.

Christian immigrated with his brother, Nicholas. He landed in Philadelphia in 1847, and originally settled in Pennsylvania, and from there went to Ohio in 1848. In 1850, he was employed as a farm laborer for Edward Mills in Summit County, Ohio (listed as "Christian Kong". In Ohio, he met Maria Baechler. In 1851, he took a trip to Iowa looking for a place to settle. Christian and Maria married in Butler County in 1852 and left shortly thereafter for central Illinois. They settled initially in McLean County. In March, 1865, they moved to Livingston County.

Christian purchased land located 2 miles south, and one half mile west of Flanagan. On 8/22/1864 Christian purchased 160 acres in Nebraska Township, Livingston County (SW 1/4 of Section 34 - located two miles due south of Flanagan). The Illinois Central Railroad reserved a 200' easement "where the tracks of said railroad now lie". (Livingston County Deed Record Book 26, p. 244). On the same day, Christian's brother, Daniel King, bought 80 acres nearby on land that is today owned by the Salem Children's Home (E 1/2 of SE 1/4 of Section 34). Then on 3/31/1869, Christian bought an additional 40 acres adjacent (SW 1/4 of SE 1/4 of Section 34 : LCDR Book 38, p. 584), and on 2/28/1871, he purchased the NW 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 34 (LCDR Book 52k p. 347). Thus, by 1871, Christian and Daniel owned the entire southern half of Section 34 of Nebraska Township. Christian added other properties to his holdings, including a number of properties in Manson, Iowa. Chris and Mary gave all of their land away to their children as they aged and thus, they had no wills or estates.

Christian anglicized his surname to "King" and was affectionately known as "Curley", "Smiley", and "Smilin' Christ" because of his happy demeanor.

According to "A History of Livingston County" Vol. 2, Chris was a Democrat and served as a school director (member of the school board) for a number of years.

Birth:
Glasthalerhof

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Christian married Mary Catharina Sommer Baechler on 24 Jun 1852 in Butler Co., OH. Mary (daughter of Joseph Baechler and Catharina Sommer) was born on 4 Apr 1829 in Bisping, Moselle, Lorraine, FR; died on 25 May 1920 in Pontiac, Livingston Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Occupation: Midwife
• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

Obit: Pontiac Daily Leader Obituary 5/26/1920:
MRS. MARY KING DEAD
"Mrs. Mary King, one of the early residents of Pike township, died at 8:30 o'clock Tuesday night at St. James Hospital in this city, where she had been a patient for the past three years. Death was due to the infirmities of old age.

Mary Beckler was born April 15, 1821, in Fulton County, Ohio. She came to Illinois at an early age and located in this section of the state which has since been her home.
The remains were taken to the home of her daughter, Mrs. Aaron Forney, southwest of this city, where they will remain until the funeral is held."
NOTE: It is believed the info in the above obit was provided by Aaron Forney. There are obvious errors. GLY”

“Maria Baechler was born in Alsace Lorraine France, apparently the illegitimate daughter of Catharina Sommer. According to a note on her French birth registry, she was adopted by Joseph Baechler after he married Catharina. 

Emigrated with her parents in 1836 on ship "Francis DePau" ( New York Passenger Lists, 1820-1957 > 1836 > July > 22 > Francis Depau Ship's List, page 1) arriving from LeHavre on July, 22. Those on the ship included Joseph Backler 26, Catherina 27, Marie 5. Also in the family group: Joseph Sommer 74, Barbe Sommer 75, Christian Sommer 32, Marie Sommer 23, Salome Sommer 17 and Barbe Sommer 55.They finally arrived in Butler County, Ohio, where Maria was raised. In 1852, she married Christian King in Butler County. Shortly after their marriage, they moved to central Illinois where Maria spent the rest of her life.


"Maria (called "Mary" in America) was a midwife, like her mother, and taught the skills to her daughters. She rode a pony to deliver babies, followed down the road by 'Fritzie', her dog." - information from Rev. Steve Estes and

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Mennonite
• Immigration: 1858

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald , Vol VIII, No 14, 1 July 1915

Zehr - Andrew Zehr was born in France June 9, 1839; died June 10, 1915; aged 76 y. 1 d. He came to America with his parents in December, 1855, and settled in Woodford Co., Ill. He united with the Mennonite Church in his youth of which Church he was a faithful member at the time of his death. He was united in marriage to Magdalena Zehr July 28, 1863. This union was blessed with 11 children. His wife and 2 children preceded him to the spirit world. Nine children, 36 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, 4 brothers, 1 sister, and a large circle of friends remain to mourn his death. 

Bro. Zehr's desire was to be at home in glory. The funeral was held at the Mennonite Church in Manson, Iowa, June 13. Bro. A. H. Leaman of Chicago, assisted by Bro. Risser of Eureka, Ill., conducted the services. Text, II Tim. 4:8. Interment in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Immigration:
Dec 1855?

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Andrew married Magdalena (Lena) Zehr on 28 Jul 1863 in Woodford Co., IL. Magdalena (daughter of Christian Zehr and Elizabeth Landes) was born on 21 Mar 1843 in Woodford Co., IL; died on 17 Feb 1914 in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA; was buried in Manson, Calhoun Co., IA. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• Religion: Amish Mennonite

Notes:

Obit: Gospel Herald, February 1914:

Magdalena Zehr was born in Woodford Co., Ill., March 21, 1843; died Feb. 17, 1914, in Calhoun Co., Ia; aged 70y, 10m, 27d. She was united in marriage to Andrew Zehr, July 28, 1863. To this union were born 11 children. Two children and one grandchild preceded her to the spirit world.

She leaves to mourn her departure her husband, 9 children, 36 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

She united with the A.M. Church in her youth, and remained faithful until her death. She endured many trials and much suffering through her life. The last eight months of her life she was confined to her bed the greater part of the time. Her last illness was dropsy. She had a great longing to go home and be at rest.

Funeral services at the home Feb. 19, and at the Cedar Creek Church at Manson. Opening by Bro. Jos. Egli. Text, by Bro. A.H. Leaman of Chicago, Gen. 5:24. Interment in the Rose Hill
Cemetery.



“ Magdalena/Madeleine and Andrew were given a farm by Christian. They are found on the 1870 census of Waldo, Livingston County as farmer Andrew Zehr, 32, France; Magdalene, 29, Illinois; and four children born in Illinois. The 1880 census of Waldo also lists her birthplace as Illinois. The 1900 census of Lincoln, Iowa lists her place and date of birth as Illinois in March 1843, while Andrew was born in France in June 1839. They had 10 children. They are buried in Rose Hill Cemetery at Manson. “

Buried:
Rose Hill Cemetery

Other Events and Attributes:

• CLER: Y
• Religion: Amish Mennonite
• Residence: 1840, Butler Co., OH
• Residence: 1841, Tazewell Co., IL

Notes:

Obit:
Steinman. - Daniel Steinman was born in Germany in February, 1830; died Mar. 17, 1916; aged 86 y. 1 m. At the age of 10 he came to Ohio then on to Tazewell Co., Ill., with relatives; united with the Amish Mennonite Church in his youth and remained a faithful member to the end. Nov. 12, 1854, he was married to Catharine Birky. They made their home in Tazewell Co. for 11 years, then came to Livingston Co. near where the town of Flanagan now is. To this union were born 7 daughters and 1 son. His wife died Feb. 8, 1874. Aug. 17, 1876; he was married to Catharine Stahley (widow) who died Feb. 9, 1905. In the spring of 1870 he was ordained to the ministry and in 1885 he was ordained bishop. These places he filled to the best of his ability. As long as his health permitted he was at his post. For many years he suffered with severe headaches and of late with heart trouble. The last years of his life he has been making his home with his daughter, Barbara (Mrs. Dan Eigsti). On the evening of March 16 he ate a hearty supper and before retiring said he feels real well. The next morning he was found dead in his room. He leaves to mourn his sudden departure 6 daughters, 1 son, 1 stepdaughter, 45 grandchildren, and 45 great-grandchildren. One daughter and 6 grandchildren preceded him. Short services were held at the house by Bro. John Birky, Hopedale, Ill. The services at the church were held by Bros. Dan Orendorff, Andrew Schrock and D. W. Slagel. Texts, II Cor. 4:17, 18; Matt. 25:21 (1st clause), Job 19:25 (1st clause). Buried in the Waldo graveyard.


Steve Estes writes that in 1840 Daniel came to Butler Co., OH with his cousins the “Big” Birkeys and continued with them to Tazewell Co., IL in 1841.

Ministered in the Gridley Prairie (later Waldo Mennonite) congregation in Livingston Co., IL. When he came to America at the age of ten with some of his cousins, he brought a copy of the Martyrs Mirror with him. He served as bishop of the church when it became an Egly congregation.

However, Daniel evidently came with a different Birky family than Estes thought, as a 1900 census says he came in 1844--probably with cousins Joseph (b. 1818) and his sister Maria.

See page 89 in Source for further information about Daniel and his rather complicated life.

Birth:
Obit gives different date

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Daniel married Katharina (Catharine) Birky on 12 Nov 1854 in Tazewell Co., IL. Katharina (daughter of Christian Birki and Maria Anna Gascho) was born in Nov 1834 in Bavaria, GR; died on 8 Feb 1874 in Livingston Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events and Attributes:

• USR1: Nerve fever

Notes:

Obit:
Feb. 8th 1874, in Livingston co., Ill., of Nerve fever, CATHARINE STEINMAN, wife of Pre. Daniel Steinman, in the 40th year of her age. She admonished her children to be obedient to their father. She leaves a bereaved husband and eight children to mourn their loss. Appropriate remarks were made by Christian Schlegel, from Rev. 21:1-7; and Joseph Gascho, from Heb. 12:1-8.

Buried:
Waldo Cemetery

Notes:

Married:
A /261 2454