Orval Leo Schrock: The Schrock-Birkey Connection

Orval Leo Schrock

Male 1910 - 2002  (91 years)


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Generation: 1

  1. 1.  Orval Leo Schrock was born on 9 Sep 1910 in Fisher, Newcomb Twp., Champaign Co., IL (son of Albert Elmer Schrock and Josephine L. Yordy); died on 14 Aug 2002 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 19 Aug 2002 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Education: After the eighth grade Orval worked to support the family. All wages he earned went to his mother until the age of 20. Then one half until he married six months later.
    • HOBB: Fishing
    • Occupation: Farming, Oil Delivery, Schrock Soil Service, Truck Testing Lane
    • Reference Number: 8
    • Religion: Mennonite/Interdenominational
    • USR1: Pulmonary Fibrosis
    • Census: 1920, Brown Twp., Champaign Co., IL
    • Baptism: 22 Oct 1922, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
    • Census: 1930, Brown Twp., Champaign Co., IL
    • Census: 6 Apr 1940, Fisher, Brown Twp., Champaign Co., IL

    Notes:



    Birth:
    Farm two miles south of Fisher (later owned by Ezra Unzicker/Eugene Deffenbaugh)

    Census:
    Living with his mother, Josephine and siblings Elmer and Eunice

    Baptism:
    East Bend Mennonite Church, by his uncle, Bishop J. A. Heiser

    Census:
    Orval Shrock, age 19. Boarder with Harold Zehr Family, Alma, Edith, Wes, John. Working on a grain farm. Working as a domestic was Edna Unzicker.

    Census:
    Orval as head of household, age 29, with Mae his wife age 27, and daughter Donna age 5. They were renting in the home of Mary Ella (hotel operator) and Magdalena Schrock (telephone switchboard operator). Orval was the operator of an oil service truck. Amount of income in 1939 was $1628.

    Died:
    In his home of almost 70 years

    Buried:
    East Bend Memorial Gardens

    Orval married Laura Mae Park on 24 Dec 1931 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. Laura (daughter of Eli Oscar Grover Park and Effie Louella Blackwell) was born on 2 May 1912 in Champion City, Boone Twp., Franklin Co., MO; died on 11 Nov 2009 in Carol Stream, DuPage Co., IL; was buried on 15 Nov 2009 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

    Notes:

    Married:
    By J.A. Heiser

    Children:
    1. Donna Nadine Schrock
    2. Gloria Mae Schrock

Generation: 2

  1. 2.  Albert Elmer Schrock was born on 13 Jan 1886 in Morton Twp., Tazewell Co., IL (son of John Schrock and Mary Birky); died on 9 Jan 1917 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 11 Jan 1917 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Education: Brown School. Beyond That, He Was Self Taught.
    • Occupation: Farmer
    • Reference Number: 11
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • USR1: Pulmonary Hemorrhage, Tuberculosis
    • Census: Jun 1900, Brown Twp., Champaign Co., IL
    • Baptism: 25 Oct 1903, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
    • Census: Apr 1910, Newcomb Twp., Champaign Co., IL

    Notes:

    Obituary: Jan 25, 1917 Gospel Herald

    Schrock. - Albert E. Schrock was born in Tazewell Co., Ill., Jan. 13, 1886; died at his home near Fisher, Ill., Jan. 9, 1917; aged 30 y. 11 m. 27 d.
    He united with the Amish Mennonite Church at the age of 17 years and remained faithful unto the end. He united in marriage with Josephine Yordy Dec. 18, 1907. To this union were born 2 sons, Elmer and Orval who with his loving wife, are left to mourn his early departure, also father and mother, 1 sister, an aged grandmother, and a host of other relatives and friends. He was a very devoted Christian, living true to his convictions. He was elected superintendent of the Sunday school where he served faithfully until his health failed, when he was attacked with the dreaded disease, tuberculosis, of which he was a sufferer for four years. Much of this time he spent in reading good books and studying God,s Word. He bore his afflictions patiently and fought the disease hard, and died with a hemorrhage. He was a deep thinker, very conservative, choosing rather to be right than popular.
    Even with his afflictions he always took an active part in church work, being in Sunday school two days before his death.
    Funeral services were conducted Jan. 11 at the East Bend A. M. Church by Bro. Samuel Gerber of Pekin, Ill., assisted by the home ministers. Buried at the Mennonite cemetery.

    Fare thee well, our brother,
    Yes, a last and sad farewell,
    But in heaven, we'll try to meet thee,
    And with thee forever dwell.
    ——————
    A local newspaper account of his death reads as follows:

    Well Known Resident of Fisher Vicinity Past (sic) Away Tuesday.
    Fisher, Jan. 9--(Special.)--Albert Schrock, well known resident of this community, died this morning at his home, two miles north of the village, after an illness of four years, due to tuberculosis. He had been unusually well of late and arose this morning and kindled a fire and shortly afterward was seized with a hemorrhage and died a short time afterwards. The deceased was a son of John and Mary Schrock and was born on January 13, 1886. He was married about eight years ago to Miss Josephine Yordy, who, with two sons, Elmer and Oliver (Orval), survive, as do also his parents. A sister also survives. He was a prominent member of the Amish church. The funeral will be held on Thursday from the Amish church, Rev. Samuel Gerber, of Morton, conducting the services. Burial will be made in the family lot in the Amish cemetery.

    Census:
    Listed with his parents and sister. Albert was 14.

    Baptism:
    East Bend Mennonite by Peter Zehr

    Census:
    Listed with Josephine his wife, and Elmer his son

    Died:
    At 6:00 a.m., after six years of fighting tuberculosis

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

    Albert married Josephine L. Yordy on 18 Dec 1907 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. Josephine (daughter of Joseph P. Yordy and Elizabeth A. Roeschley) was born on 14 Aug 1886 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 3 Jan 1977 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried on 6 Jan 1977 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]


  2. 3.  Josephine L. Yordy was born on 14 Aug 1886 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL (daughter of Joseph P. Yordy and Elizabeth A. Roeschley); died on 3 Jan 1977 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried on 6 Jan 1977 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Occupation: Nursing Aid
    • Reference Number: 10
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • USR1: Old Age
    • Baptism: 13 Oct 1901, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
    • Census: 28 Apr 1930, Brown Twp., Champaign Co., IL
    • Residence: 1933, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL
    • Residence: 1949, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
    • Residence: 1971, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL

    Notes:

    Obit:
    Schrock.- Josephine, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Roeschley) Yordy, was born in Flanagan, Ill., Aug. 14, 1886; died at Maple Lawn Homes, Eureka, Ill., Jan. 3, 1977; aged 90 y. On Dec. 17, 1907, she was married to Albert Schrock, who preceded her in death on Jan. 9, 1917. Surviving are 2 sons (Elmer and Orval), one daughter (Eunice-Mrs. Olen Kandel), 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 3 brothers (Ezra, Jonas, and Alvin). She was a member of the East Bend Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held on Jan. 5, in charge of Irvin Nussbaum; interment in the East Bend Cemetery.

    Baptism:
    East Bend Church by John C. Birky

    Census:
    Head of household, general farming, age 45; with son Elmer, 21, teaching in a country school, and daughter Eunice age 12. Parents are listed as born in Germany, but that is incorrect.

    Residence:
    Josephine and Eunice left Fisher and East Bend Mennonite Church and moved to Eureka to become part of the Roanoke Mennonite Church.

    Residence:
    Living with daughter, Eunice and family

    Residence:
    Resident at Maple Lawn Retirement Home

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

    Notes:

    Both bride and groom were 21 years of age at the time of their marriage by Bishop Peter Zehr, Minister of the Gospel (East Bend Amish Mennonite Church), at the home of the bride’s parents.
    Witnesses were Andrew Birky (b.19 Jun 1864) cousin of the groom, and Jacob Heiser.

    Peter Zehr’s church records give the marriage date as 18 Dec 1907.

    Married:
    By Peter Zehr, at the home of the bride’s parents in Fisher, IL .

    Children:
    1. Elmer Raymond Schrock was born on 26 Jan 1909 in Fisher, Newcomb Twp., Champaign Co., IL; died on 11 Dec 1989 in Montgomery, Montgomery Co., AL; was buried on 16 Dec 1989 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    2. 1. Orval Leo Schrock was born on 9 Sep 1910 in Fisher, Newcomb Twp., Champaign Co., IL; died on 14 Aug 2002 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 19 Aug 2002 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    3. Eunice Lois Schrock was born on 25 Jun 1917 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; died on 15 Mar 2002 in Fort Oglethorpe, GA; was buried on 21 Mar 2002 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.


Generation: 3

  1. 4.  John Schrock was born on 28 May 1862 in Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL (son of Peter Schrock and Anna (Nancy) Garber); died on 28 Jul 1951 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Jul 1951 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Education: Railroad School?
    • Occupation: Farmer In 1885, Later Carpenter And Painter
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • USR1: Old age-died in his sleep
    • Residence: 19 Feb 1885, Morton, Tazewell Co., IL
    • Residence: 1891, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL

    Notes:

    Obit:
    Schrock, -- John Schrock, was born near Delavan, Ill., May 28, 1862; died near Fisher, Ill., July 28, 1951; aged 89 y. 2 m. He accepted Christ in his youth and was a member of the Mennonite Church from then until his death. He was a charter member of the Eat Bend congregation at Fisher. In 1885 he was united in marriage to Mary Birkey, of Morton, Ill. To this union two children were born. Albert, preceded him in death thirty-four years ago and his daughter (Fannie-Mrs. J.A. Heiser, Dec. 17, 1950). Surviving are his wife, 8 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. His 3 brothers and 4 sisters preceded him in death. N. N. Roeschley conducted the funeral services at the East Bend Church.

    Birth:
    Another source says Delavan

    Residence:
    At time of marriage

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

    John married Mary Birky on 19 Feb 1885 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL. Mary (daughter of Andrew (Andréas) S. Birky and Veronica (Fannie) Sutter) was born on 19 Sep 1862 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 24 Mar 1954 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 26 Mar 1954 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]


  2. 5.  Mary Birky was born on 19 Sep 1862 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL (daughter of Andrew (Andréas) S. Birky and Veronica (Fannie) Sutter); died on 24 Mar 1954 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 26 Mar 1954 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • Residence: 19 Feb 1885, Morton, Tazewell Co., IL
    • Residence: 1914, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL

    Notes:

    Obit: Gospel Herald
    Schrock, Mary (Birky), was born near Morton, Ill., Sept. 19, 1862; passed away at the home of her granddaughter, Mrs. Alta Detweiler, Fisher, Ill., March 24, 1954; aged 91 y. 6 m. 5 d. She was bedfast for 18 months. On Feb. 19, 1885, she was married to John Schrock. He preceded her in death in July 1951. They were the parents of 2 children (Albert E., and Fannie-Mrs. J. A. Heiser). Albert preceded her in death in February, 1917, and Fannie in December, 1950. Surviving are her daughter-in-law (Mrs. Josephine Schrock, Eureka, Ill.), son-in-law (J. A. Heiser, Fisher, Ill.), 8 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She accepted Christ in her youth and bore testimony of her love for her Saviour. She was a member of the East Bend Mennonite Church. Funeral services were held at the East Bend Church in charge of Ezra Yordy. Burial was made in the adjoining cemetery.


    John and Mary lost both of their adult children before their own deaths.

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

    Notes:

    Married at the home of the bride’s parents by Andrew Ropp. Peter Schrock was a witness.
    Both were 23 years of age at the time of their marriage.

    Married:
    By Andrew Ropp, minister of the gospel. (MR #153)

    Children:
    1. 2. Albert Elmer Schrock was born on 13 Jan 1886 in Morton Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 9 Jan 1917 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 11 Jan 1917 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    2. Fannie Ann Schrock was born on 18 Jul 1889 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 17 Dec 1950 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 19 Dec 1950 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

  3. 6.  Joseph P. Yordy was born on 7 Nov 1857 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL (son of Peter Yordy and Maria (Mary) Birky); died on 19 Feb 1925 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Feb 1925 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Occupation: Farmer
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • Residence: 1867, Woodford Co., IL
    • Census: 1900, Brown Twp., Champaign Co., IL
    • Residence: 1903-1904, CA
    • Residence: 1898-1911, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
    • Residence: 1911, Secor, Woodford Co., IL
    • Residence: 1922/3, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL
    • Residence: 1925/6, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL

    Notes:

    Obit: The Metamora Herald, Feb. 1925
    Yordy. - Joseph, son of Peter and Mary Yordy, was born near Pekin, Ill., Nov. 7, 1857; died at his home in Eureka, Ill., Feb. 19, 1925; aged 67 y. 3 m. 12 d. In boyhood he moved with his parents to Roanoke, Ill. On Jan 1, 1882, he was married to Elizabeth Roeschley. To this union were born three daughters (Ella, Anna, and Mrs. Josephine Schrock), and six sons (Aaron, Ezra, Walter, Jonas, Alvin, and Lewis). After his marriage he lived one year near Roanoke, fifteen years near Flanagan, twelve years near Fisher, and the remaining years in Woodford county. In his early manhood he united with the Mennonite Church and had a ringing Christian testimony to the end. He served the Church as a faithful deacon since 1920. Singing always found a great place in his life, and he always took an active part in worshiping God in song. Although never very strong physically, yet he had a strong faith in the living God and lived a stable consistent Christian life. Since Christmas he suffered much. Often during the last few months he longed for eternal rest. He was conscious to the last, although unable to speak, and showed great calmness the last hours of his life on earth. His desire is fulfilled now, for he has gone where "there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, not crying, neither shall there be any more pain." He leaves his wife, nine children, nine grandchildren, one brother (Jacob, of Flanagan), two sisters (Barbara, of Eureka, and Mrs. Chris. Bachman of Cazenovia), many relatives and friends. Funeral services at the Roanoke Mennonite Church Feb 22, 1925, conducted by Brothers A.A. Schrock and H.R. Schertz. Text John 11:25. Interment in cemetery nearby.

    ———————————————————————
    Joseph and Elizabeth, according to best estimates, lived on a farm for one year in the vicinity of Roanoke. In 1883 they moved to a farm northeast of Flanagan and lived there until 1899. The thirteen years at Flanagan in Livingston Co. preceded a move to Fisher in Champaign Co. There they settled on a farm which was located approximately two miles west on what is now Rt.136. (While in the Fisher area, daughter Ella was sent several times to the Kankakee mental hospital--see notes for Ella. (db) In 1911 [after selling their Fisher farm to Jacob Zehr] the family moved back to Woodford Co. to a farm called Plainview, located southwest of Secor, on Meridian Road. The years from 1922 until 1926 were spent in Eureka and from there Elizabeth Yordy moved to the farm south of Eureka after the death of her husband in 1925.

    Joseph served as deacon at Roanoke Mennonite Church from about 1920-24. He was known as a “man of good judgement.” Town people considered him to have money and often asked to borrow from him. At one time he lived outside the Mennonite community in Secor, IL, near Panther Creek.

    Joseph had a bit of a wanderlust in his blood: in 1903-4 he took the family to California; in 1912 to Texas. He also took a trip to Washington, D.C. to satisfy his curiosity about the seat of government.

    Eunice Schrock Kandel writes, “Grandfather Joseph Yordy died in 1925 during my second year in school. We visited with him at Christmas time, 1924. There is a picture in my mind of him in a long flannel robe, standing over a hot air register at their home in Eureka. The holiday atmosphere was subdued because of his illness. In February of the next year, while I was fighting a persistent cough and fever, we received the news of Grandpa’s imminent death. Mother wrapped me in comforters and made a bed in the back seat of our Model T, and our family of four made the trip to Eureka. As we drove up to the house, Uncle Alvin stood on the porch with tears in his eyes. Mother said, ‘We’re too late.’ Just minutes before our arrival Grandpa had passed away.”

    Residence:
    Peter Yordy Farm: Joseph Yordy moved to this farm with his parents.

    Census:
    Listed as a farmer born 1857 (parents born in Germany), with wife Elizabeth born 1861 (parents born in France); children Ellen (Ella), Anna, Josephine, Aaron, Ezra, Walter, Jonas; and servant/farm laborer Carl Studer born in Switzerland.

    Residence:
    Lived there with his family for about two years.

    Residence:
    Purchased a farm two miles west of Fisher.

    Residence:
    Plainview Farm

    Residence:
    502 West Cruger Avenue. Lived here after leaving Plainview Farm.

    Residence:
    Two and one-half miles south of Eureka. Elizabeth Yordy moved to this farm after Joseph died.

    Died:
    At his home

    Buried:
    Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery.

    Joseph married Elizabeth A. Roeschley on 1 Jan 1882 in Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL. Elizabeth (daughter of Johannes (Jean) Roeschley and Elizabeth Saltzman) was born on 20 Jul 1862 in Spring Bay, Woodford Co., IL; died on 3 Feb 1953 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]


  4. 7.  Elizabeth A. Roeschley was born on 20 Jul 1862 in Spring Bay, Woodford Co., IL (daughter of Johannes (Jean) Roeschley and Elizabeth Saltzman); died on 3 Feb 1953 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Occupation: Housewife, Mother
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite

    Notes:

    Gospel Herald Obit:
    Yordy, -- Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Saltzman) Roeschley, was born near Spring Bay, Ill., July 20, 1862; passed away Feb.3, 1953; aged 90 y. 6 m. 14 d. On Jan. 1, 1882, at the Roanoke Mennonite Church, she was united in marriage to Joseph Yordy, who preceded her in death in 1925. Surviving are 3 daughters (Ella, Anna, and Mrs. Josephine Schrock, Eureka, Ill.), 5 sons (Aaron, Peoria, Ill.; Ezra, Eureka, Ill.; Walter, Chicago, Ill.; Jonas, Eureka, Ill.; and Alvin, Denver, Colo.), 15 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren. One son (Lewis) also preceded her in death. In her youth she united with the Mennonite Church and for many years taught a German Sunday-school class. Funeral services were in charge of John L. Harnish and J. D. Hartzler, with burial in the church cemetery.
    —————————
    “Elizabeth taught her husband, Joseph, to read. She was quiet, determined, with a good sense of humor. She was frugal, a good gardener, and managed her household well, often smoothing over differences in the family--a leveler. Elizabeth was affected for many years with arthritis, and was an invalid during her later years in life, finally confined to her home because of her helpless condition.

    “Grandma Yordy outlived her husband by many years...Grandma must have had severe arthritis. She walked so slowly that she had to be called to dinner at least ten minutes before serving time. Aunt Ella and Uncle Aaron were always there at the farm taking care of ‘Ma.’ Later, when they moved back to Eureka, Uncle Jonas and Aunt Anna appeared on the scene to take care of their aging and bedfast mother....”

    A Eureka newspaper article reported Elizabeth being honored at a surprise birthday party dinner at her home three miles south of Eureka, arranged by Mrs. William Kane of Metamora. The article went on to mention her parents, “Mr. and Mrs. Roeschley who lived two miles north of Eureka. She [Elizabeth] remembers how she would walk to Eureka with eggs in a market basket and take groceries home for the week. She attended church services at what was called Black Partrige, across from the Partrige cemetery, west of Washington, and also remembers well the old “grist mill” along the Illinois river [where her father was miller].”

    Birth:
    Born in her parents’ home two miles north of Eureka

    Buried:
    Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery

    Notes:

    Married:
    At the Amisch Mennonite Church, Roanoke, Woodford Co., by Jacob Zehr, Minister of the Gospel. Witnesses: John J. Roeschley and Joseph Wagner. Joseph was living in rural Roanoke Twp. at the time of marriage and Elizabeth was living in Roanoke. Witnesses to the marriage were John Roeschley and Joseph Wagner (Wagler).

    Children:
    1. Ella M. (Ellen) Yordy was born on 29 Mar 1883 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 16 Jan 1960 in Newton, Harvey Co., KS; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    2. Anna M. Yordy was born on 9 Mar 1885 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 18 Jan 1975 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried on 20 Jan 1975 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    3. 3. Josephine L. Yordy was born on 14 Aug 1886 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 3 Jan 1977 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried on 6 Jan 1977 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    4. Aaron A. Yordy was born on 16 Mar 1888 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 7 Nov 1957 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    5. Bishop Ezra Benjamin Yordy was born on 6 Apr 1892 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 9 Nov 1980 in Bloomington, McLean Co., IL; was buried in Nov 1980 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    6. Walter Eli Yordy was born on 6 Dec 1895 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died on 25 Feb 1976 in Newton, Harvey Co., KS; was buried on 1 Mar 1976 in Hillside, Cook Co., IL.
    7. Jonas Elmer Yordy was born on 9 Jan 1899 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; died in May 1984 in IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    8. Alvin Ray Yordy was born on 8 Jan 1902 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; died on 29 Dec 1979 in CO; was buried in Wheat Ridge, Jefferson Co., CO.
    9. Lewis John Yordy was born on 17 Sep 1905 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; died on 10 Feb 1932 in IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.


Generation: 4

  1. 8.  Peter Schrock was born on 1 Aug 1839 in Butler Co., OH (son of Johannes Schrock (Schrack, Gerrard) and Catherine (Elisabeth) Salzman); died on 5 Apr 1922 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Education: Railroad School?
    • Occupation: Farmer, beekeeper
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite. Attended A Methodist Church in Pekin After Marriage And Before Moving To Fisher.
    • USR1: Chronic Interstitial Nephritis (Kidney Failure)
    • Residence: 1850, Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
    • Census: 27 Jul 1860, Malone Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
    • Residence: 1862, Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
    • Residence: 1864, Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL
    • Residence: Abt 1890, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
    • Residence: 1898, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL
    • PURC: 1904, Fairview, MI
    • Residence: 1905, Fairview, MI
    • Residence: 1907-1922, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL

    Notes:

    Obituary: Gospel Herald, 20 April 1922, pg 63
    Schrock.--Peter Schrock was born, Aug. 1, 1839; died at his home in Fisher, Ill., April 5, 1922; aged 82 y. 8 m. 5 d. He was united in marriage to Anna Garber Jan. 8, 1860, who preceded him in death twenty years ago. To this union 8 children were born. Two preceded him in death. He leaves 6 children, 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 1 brother. He accepted Christ as his Savior while young and united with the Mennonite Church. He was a faithful member until death. Funeral services were conducted April 7, by Bro. S. S. Zehr and Bro. Sam Gerber. Text, Gal. 2:20.
    —————————
    “Peter Schrock had long, white whiskers and told one of his grandsons, "You'd be a fine feller if you'd let your whiskers grow." After Peter got older he would sit in his big chair in the sitting room with his spittoon by his chair. He had a jack knife with the words "Peter Schrock, Fisher, Illinois" made in the handle. He used this to cut his chewing tobacco. He also whittled a great deal. Peter raised pigs and kept bees--from 10-15 hives. Peter wasn't able to establish himself as a prosperous farmer like his brother Joseph, or a successful businessman like his brother John, but he left a legacy of compassion and kindness to his descendants.

    “Sometime around 1885-1890 a real estate agent appeared in Fisher and persuaded Peter and his two sons, Samuel and Joseph, to buy some uncleared timberland in Fairview, Michigan [village of Mio nearby]. Peter went ahead and sometime later Sam and Joe and their families chartered a freight car and moved to Michigan. Sam and Joe, their livestock and furniture, rode in the freight car and the women (evidently including Lena and Ella) and children rode in a passenger car.

    “The Schrocks managed to clear a few acres of land and planted it to Buckwheat. They had the buckwheat ground for pancakes at the mill in Mio. There were beautiful big rainbow and speckled trout in great abundance in the Au Sable river about on and one-half or two miles south of their house...Fish and buckwheat cakes were two important items in the Schrocks’ diet....On the north side of the small buckwheat field was the Sam Schrock house and on the south side of the field was the Joe Schrock house....Pete’s father [Sam], mother and oldest sister Katie worked for other people whenever they could to make a little money. Ellen would help when there was a new baby in the community or when extra help was needed with housework, etc.”

    “After a few years Peter moved back to his home in Fisher, IL; Joseph and his family moved to Defiance, OH; and Samuel and his family moved to CO.”

















    —————
    Then, in the January Term A.D. 1919, Circuit Court, Champaign County, IL: George Bowman, Emma Van Dorn and Lucinda Lady, vs. a large number of persons named, including Peter and Anna Schrock; re who is the owner of real estate as follows:
    The East Half (1/2) of the Southeast Quarter (1/4) of Section Thirty-one (31), and the West Half (1/2) of the Northwest Quarter (1/4) of the South west Quarter (1/4) of Section Thirty-two (32), all in Township Twenty two (22) North, Range Eight Eight (8), East of the Third Principal Meridian, in Champaign County, Illinois.

    The three complaintants say their mother purchased the land in 1904 from John Zehr, and John Zehr had purchased the property from Austin E. Troutman in 19 from a whitacker01; and that Troutman had purchased the land from Peter Schrock in 1900; and that Peter Schrock had acquired title to the said lands by purchase thereof from Geo. S. VanHouten, the owner at that time, in 1893, and that Geo. S. VanHouten acquired title through various conveyances running in an unbroken line duly filed for record from the United States government, with the exception of a deed executed by Thomas Gile who originally entered said land from the United States Government in 1836.}

    Census:
    Page 261, Dwelling 1902: Peter Shrock age 21, farmer b. OH; Anna age 20, b. OH. (See map at http://www.tcghs.org/images/mp1857LLLG.jpg)

    Residence:
    Received mail in Fisher from Eureka

    PURC:
    Bought timbered land

    Residence:
    Moved family there in the spring of the year. This was noted in a letter from John Schrock (who stayed in Fisher) to Jonathan Schrock in Congerville, dated Sept 12, 1905.

    Residence:
    Moved back to the house in Fisher and remained until death

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery (Amish Mennonite Cemetery). Undertaker was L. C. Wade of Fisher. Funeral service by S. Zehr and Samuel Gerber

    Peter married Anna (Nancy) Garber on 8 Jan 1860 in Tazewell Co., IL. Anna (daughter of John Garber and Eva Caroline Paithe) was born on 30 Apr 1839 in PA; died on 3 Feb 1902 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 5 Feb 1902 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]


  2. 9.  Anna (Nancy) Garber was born on 30 Apr 1839 in PA (daughter of John Garber and Eva Caroline Paithe); died on 3 Feb 1902 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 5 Feb 1902 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Education: Railroad School?
    • Occupation: Housewife
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • USR1: Carcinoma Of Stomach
    • Residence: 1844, Groveland Twp., Tazewell Co., IL

    Notes:

    The Garber family owned and ran a mill (see map at http://www.tcghs.org/images/mp1857MRLG.jpg)

    Grandson Peter Schrock (1895-1950) remembered his grandmother as a large woman, rather quiet and solemn, but his memories were vague since he was only seven years old when his grandmother died in 1902. Some who knew Grandma Nancy say she was a very good cook.

    Walter Ropp comments in his writings that Nancy loved beautiful things in nature like the sunsets, etc.

    Residence:
    Family moved when Anna was 4 yrs. old.

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery (Amish Cemetery on the death certificate)

    Notes:

    Anna’s surname is spelled Gerber when entered by the county clerk, and Garber when entered by Andrew Ropp.

    Married:
    By Andrew Ropp

    Children:
    1. Katherine (Katie) Schrock was born on 30 Sep 1860; died on 2 Aug 1861.
    2. 4. John Schrock was born on 28 May 1862 in Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 28 Jul 1951 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Jul 1951 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    3. Samuel Schrock was born on 16 Jul 1864 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 31 Dec 1943 in Thurman, Washington Co., CO; was buried in Thurman, Washington Co., CO.
    4. Joseph Schrock was born on 18 Aug 1866 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 14 Apr 1947 in Defiance, Defiance Co., OH; was buried in Stryker, Williams Co., OH.
    5. Lydia Anna Schrock was born on 26 Mar 1868 in Pekin, Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 6 Feb 1938 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Feb 1938 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    6. Moses Schrock was born on 26 Apr 1870; died on 12 Dec 1879; was buried in Pekin, Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
    7. Ella Schrock was born on 17 Nov 1875 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 8 Feb 1951 in Gibson City, Ford Co., IL; was buried on 9 Feb 1951 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    8. Magdalena Matilda (Lena) Schrock was born on 20 Aug 1885 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; died on 27 Jun 1950 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

  3. 10.  Andrew (Andréas) S. Birky was born on 3 Mar 1830 in Bavaria, GR (son of Christian Birki and Maria Anna Gascho); died on 11 Sep 1895 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • DESC: At Time Of Death Owned Land As Follows: The SE 1/4 Of The NE 1/4 Of Section 19 Town 22N, R8E Of 3rdPM (40 Acres At $70 Per Acre =$2800)
    • DESC: At Time Of Death Owned Land As Follows: The W 1/2 Of The NE 1/4 Of Section 19 Town 22N, R8E Of 3rdPM (Excet One Acre In NE Corner Thereof, Deeded For Cemetery Purposes (79 Acres At $80 Per Acre=$6320)
    • DESC: At Time Of Death Owned Land As Follows: The W 35 1/2 Acres Of The SW 1/4 Of The NW 1/4 Of Section 20, Town 22N, R8E Of The 3rdPM (35 1/2 Acres At $70 Per Acre = $2485) Purchased From Cora Baker
    • Occupation: Farmer
    • PURC: Champaign Co., IL
    • PURC: Champaign Co., IL
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • Residence: 1872, Morton Twp., Tazewell Co., IL
    • Naturalization: 16 Feb 1888, Tazewell Co., IL
    • Naturalization: 3 Mar 1890, Tazewell Co., IL
    • Residence: 1892, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL

    Notes:

    “After Andrew and Veronica married, they probably soon moved into the [Johannes] Sutter home, after the elder Sutters moved into the smaller house just across the garden. Their home was about eighteen feet long and sixteen feet wide. Its one room was divided into a kitchen and bedroom by a curtain. The hired man had to climb a ladder to his bed in the loft. Later an addition was built to the house for use as a kitchen in the summer. It could not be used during the winter because it was not built very warm and was floorless. The pole barn was eight feet high, sixteen feet wide, and eighteen feet long. In the wall in front of the horses was a flap door, which was opened at feeding time. The haystacks were just outside. Oats was kept in a rail pen nearby.”

    Andrew and Veronica bought 80 acres of the Sutter land in 1882 for $50 an acre. In 1891 they sold the land for $95 an acre and moved to Fisher. He bought some land in the same section where daughter Mary and her husband had purchased land and built a house.

    Birth:
    Perhaps Arzbach. Birthdate on gravestone is 31 Mar 1830

    PURC:
    Section 19 portion purchased from George W. Mathews, who had himself derived title by patent from the United States.

    PURC:
    35 1/2 acres in Section 20 purchased from Cora A. Baker, who had derived title indirectly from the United States by patent.

    Residence:
    Daughter Mary lived in Morton as a child

    Naturalization:
    Intent to become a citizen

    Naturalization:
    Final certificate signed

    Residence:
    Moved from Tazewell Co., IL

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery (First burial)

    Andrew married Veronica (Fannie) Sutter on 25 Mar 1858 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL. Veronica (daughter of Johannes Sutter (Suttor) and Barbara Oesch) was born on 11 Nov 1838 in Neuberg-an-Donau, Bavaria, GR; died on 16 Apr 1927 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Apr 1927 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]


  4. 11.  Veronica (Fannie) Sutter was born on 11 Nov 1838 in Neuberg-an-Donau, Bavaria, GR (daughter of Johannes Sutter (Suttor) and Barbara Oesch); died on 16 Apr 1927 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Apr 1927 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • Immigration: 1851, New York, NY
    • Residence: 1863, Morton, Tazewell Co., IL
    • Residence: 1914, Fisher, Champaign Co., IL

    Notes:

    Obit: May 26, 1927 Gospel Herald
    Birkey--Fannie S. Birkey was born Nov. 11, 1838; died April 16, 1927. She was the daughter of John Sutter of Berlin, Germany, who with his family came to the United States in 1848. She became a member of the Mennonite Church in her youth. In 1858 she was married to Andrew Birkey, who preceded her in death in 1895. She was the mother of five sons and two daughters. She is survived by three sons, one daughter, twenty-six grandchildren, and thirty-nine great-grandchildren. The funeral service was held in the East Bend Mennonite Church near Fisher, Ill., by A. H. Lehman of Chicago, Ill.

    "Our dear Mother's tasks are finished,
    Labors o,er and victories won
    Now she's gone to be with Jesus,
    Beckons to US all to come."

    Birth:
    Forsthof

    Immigration:
    On the ship Samuel M. Fox from Havre

    Residence:
    Living with Veronica’s parents

    Buried:
    East Bend Mennonite Cemetery

    Children:
    1. Infant Birky was born before 1863.
    2. Infant Birky was born before 1863.
    3. 5. Mary Birky was born on 19 Sep 1862 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 24 Mar 1954 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 26 Mar 1954 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    4. Andrew F. (Lame) Birky was born on 19 Jun 1864 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 31 May 1928 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL; was buried on 3 Jun 1928 in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.
    5. Peter Samuel Birky (Birkey) was born on 25 Apr 1867; died on 26 Jul 1946; was buried in Morton Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
    6. John W. Birky was born on 21 Nov 1871 in Morton, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 29 Jun 1941 in Peoria, Tazewell Co., IL; was buried in Tremont, Tazewell Co., IL.
    7. Amos E. Birky was born on 15 Feb 1880; died on 20 Jan 1914 in Champaign Co., IL; was buried in Fisher, Champaign Co., IL.

  5. 12.  Peter Yordy was born on 26 Jul 1815 in Jaegerthal, Niederbronn-Les-Bains, FR (son of Jakob Jordy and Catharina Schantz); died on 2 Jul 1897 in Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Jul 1897 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.

    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]


  6. 13.  Maria (Mary) Birky was born on 18 Apr 1816 in Bavaria, GR (daughter of Christian Birki and Maria Anna Gascho); died on 13 May 1903 in Roanoke Twp., Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.

    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.

    Children:
    1. Christian Yordy was born on 29 Jul 1848 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 10 Jul 1922 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    2. Mary Yordy was born on 19 Oct 1849 in Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 8 Feb 1923 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL.
    3. Magdalena Yordy was born in Jun 1851 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL; died in 1854 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL.
    4. Jacob K. Yordy was born on 8 Mar 1853 in Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 29 Nov 1930 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; was buried on 1 Dec 1930 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL.
    5. Elizabeth Yordy was born on 6 Dec 1854 in Pekin, Groveland Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 28 Jan 1928 in Cazenovia Twp., Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Metamora, Woodford Co., IL.
    6. Peter Philip Yordy was born on 29 Feb 1856 in Tazewell Co., IL; died on 4 Jun 1909 in Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    7. 6. Joseph P. Yordy was born on 7 Nov 1857 in Pekin, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 19 Feb 1925 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Feb 1925 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    8. Barbara Yordy was born on 18 Dec 1860 in Elm Grove Twp., Tazewell Co., IL; died on 20 Sep 1943 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.

  7. 14.  Johannes (Jean) Roeschley was born on 7 Jun 1812 in Moussey, Vosges, FR (son of Johannes (Jean) Roeschli and Elisabeth Wagler); died on 19 May 1881 in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Occupation: Farmer And Miller
    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • Residence: Spring Bay, Woodford Co., IL
    • Immigration: 20 May 1854, Le Havre to New York
    • Residence: 1863, Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL
    • PURC: 27 Oct 1863, Woodford Co., IL
    • PURC: 1866, Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL
    • Naturalization: 12 Apr 1872, Woodford Co., IL
    • Census: 1880, Washington, Tazewell Co., IL

    Notes:

    “John died May 19, 1881. His headstone in Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery says, "John Roeschley, starb. May 19, 1881, 69 Jahre, 5 Monat, und 11 Tag alt." This would yield a birth date Dec. 8, 1811. The longevity stated on the headstone must have been an incorrect guess made from the best available information. Someone who did not know his true date of birth simply took the date of his arrival in America (May 20, 1854) and deducted 43 years (the passenger list age) to guess his birth date, then calculated the longevity. Elizabeth's headstone in Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery says, "Elizabeth Roeschley, gest. d. 7 Jan. 1891, 60 Jahre alt."

    There is a Warranty Deed dated 31 Aug 1866 recorded for land transferred from Josephus Burton to John Roeschley. And the Atlas of Woodford County (1873) shows John Roeschley as a farmer on 160 acres in Section 31 of Roanoke, Worth Township, Woodford County.

    The 1880 census of Roanoke shows the family as retired farmer John Roschelz, 68, France; Elisabeth, 53, France; Jacob, 23; Lena, 22; John, 20; Elisabeth, 18; and Mary, 10; all children born in Illinois.

    In the French records this child born in 1812 is listed as Joseph, but erroneous registrations were not rare at this time--but it is also possible that Jean was born around 1810 in a temporary residence to these parents during their stay at Mussig and Moussey. Records received from Maurice J. Yordy put John's birth date at Dec. 8, 1811, but records from Germany give his date as July 6, 1812. The difference could be attributed to the change in the calendar.

    Johannes operated Hoser Mill at Spring Bay, IL, [1854 to 1863?] then farmed near Roanoke after 1863. The historical mill wheel now rests in front of the old courthouse in Metamora, IL, according to Maurice Yordy. https://www.historicmetamora.com/Mills.htm

    The story is told of Johannes being excommunicated from the church for working on Sunday. A customer arrived from a number of miles away on a Saturday when it was too late to grind the grain before dark, so Johannes told him to come back early Sunday morning and he would grind the grain so the customer wouldn’t need to make a second trip. Word of this got to the elders of the church, who were very displeased. Johannes would not back down since he felt he had done nothing wrong--only helped someone in need. Eventually the elders softened and reinstated him.

    [

    Birth:
    The name of the newborn was given as 'Joseph Richely' in the entry and the index. His parents were described as cultivator Jean Rechely, 45, and Elizabeth Vocker. (Moussey is 10 km west of Strasbourg)

    Immigration:
    Sailed on the Mercury, shown as Joh. Roschli, 43, along with sister Barbe, age 44.

    Residence:
    Moved with their two sons from Spring Bay to Roanoke Township.

    PURC:
    80 acres from John Stitt

    PURC:
    From Josephus Burton for $2,320.

    Naturalization:
    Vol. -A Pg. -317 (R - 240)

    Buried:
    Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery

    Johannes married Elizabeth Saltzman on 28 Jan 1856 in Tazewell Co., IL. Elizabeth (daughter of Jacques (Jacob) Salzmann and Catherine Sommer) was born on 11 Sep 1826 in Neufmaisons, Meurthe-et-Moselle, FR; died on 7 Jan 1891 in IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]


  8. 15.  Elizabeth Saltzman was born on 11 Sep 1826 in Neufmaisons, Meurthe-et-Moselle, FR (daughter of Jacques (Jacob) Salzmann and Catherine Sommer); died on 7 Jan 1891 in IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.

    Other Events and Attributes:

    • Religion: Amish Mennonite
    • Immigration: 9 Jul 1855, Le Havre to New York

    Notes:



    Birth:
    The birth entry name was Elisabeth Salsmann. Her parents were described as anabaptists farmer Jacob Salesman, 25, and Catherine Sommer. It was witnessed by farmer Uherlihe (Ulli) Sommer, 56.

    Immigration:
    On the passenger list of the Havre, the entire traveling party is Joseph Saltzmann, 56, France; Madel Sommer, 50; Andre, 12; Chretien, 7; and Elisabeth Saltzmann, 28.

    Died:
    Gravestone date. "Elizabeth Roeschley, gest. d. 7 Jan. 1891, 60 Jahre alt."

    Buried:
    Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery

    Notes:

    Married:
    A /287 2689

    Children:
    1. Jacob D. Roeschley was born in Mar 1857 in Washington, Tazewell Co., IL; died in 1909; was buried in Deer Creek Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
    2. Magdalena (Malinda) Roeschley was born on 29 Mar 1858 in Washington, Tazewell Co., IL; died on 17 Apr 1899 in Deer Creek, Tazewell Co., IL; was buried on 19 Apr 1899 in Goodfield, Woodford Co., IL.
    3. John D. Roeschley was born on 25 Aug 1859 in Woodford Co., IL; died on 24 Nov 1947 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL; was buried in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL.
    4. 7. Elizabeth A. Roeschley was born on 20 Jul 1862 in Spring Bay, Woodford Co., IL; died on 3 Feb 1953 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; was buried in Roanoke, Woodford Co., IL.
    5. Mary Catharine Roeschley was born on 9 Aug 1869 in Eureka, Woodford Co., IL; died on 19 Oct 1928 in Bloomington, McLean Co., IL; was buried on 22 Oct 1928 in Flanagan, Livingston Co., IL.


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