See also

Kenneth WRIGHT (1938- )

1 Kenneth Dale WRIGHT1 (1938- ) [1]. Born 12 May 1938, Deaconess Hospital, Detroit, Wayne County, MI. Marr Marilyn Rae SEESTED 21 May 1960, Kansas City, MO. Marr Mary Ann VALDICK 8 Dec 1983, Lapeer, Lapeer County, MI.

Kenneth D. Wright was born on May 12, 1938 in Deaconess Hospital, 3245 East Jefferson Ave, Detroit, Michigan. The first letter written to him was dated May 19, 1938 and was from Wayland Zwayer, the Minister that married Harold and Margaret Wright. The original letter is in the family archives. Harold and Margaret lived at 5039 Lakepoint in Detroit. Their phone number at the time was TU-2-3533.

2 Harold Ransom WRIGHT (1909-1988) [2]. Born 11 Sep 1909, Saginaw, Saginaw County, MI. Marr Margaret Pearl HIGGIN 29 May 1935, Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church - Detroit, MI.2 Died 13 Nov 1988, Heart of Florida Hospital, Haines City, FL.3 Cause: Cardio Pulmonary Arrest. Buried Lakeview Crematory, Winter Haven, FL.3

From the Clio Messenger.

June 11, 1915. "Harold, son of Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright, fell into the cellar of V. B. Butler's new home, Tuesday, and sustained one or two broken ribs."

July 14, 1916 - "Harold, the little son of Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright underwent an operation in Saginaw, for the removal of his tonsils, one day last week. Following the operation the little boy was so ill that he remained at the hospital for several days but is now recovering nicely."

1925-08-27 - "Lester Wright and wife and son Harold, of Detroit, were week end guests of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Carter."

1926-11-04 - "L. A. Wright and son, Harold, of Detroit, were week end guests of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Carter."

After their marriage Harold and Margaret Wright first lived at 1350 E. Grand Blvd., apt. 109. In 1937 they moved to 5039 Lakepoint and in 1940 to 708 Eastlawn. In 1941 they first moved to 4327 Lakewood av., then built a new home in Grosse Pointe at 60 Hawthorne Blvd. In 1954 they built another new home at 30030 West Gate in Farmington.

From the Farmington Enterprise and Observer, February 9, 1961. "Harold R. Wright, architect and registered professional engineer, has joined the firm of Cuddie Engineers, Inc., of Birmingham, as president. William Gillett was made office manager and Calvin J. Saari manager of structural detailing department, in personnel changes announced by the firm, which specializes in the field of structural engineering. Wright, a resident of Farmington, formerly was in private practice as a consultant since 1946."

In 1974 Harold and Margaret moved to 6738 Dogwood Court in Gaylord, MI.

From a newspaper obituary. "Harold R. Wright, 79 of Gaylord, died of complications from pneumonia Sunday, November 13, 1988 in Heart of Florida Hospital, Haines City Florida. Mr. Wright was a graduate of the University of Detroit, holding degrees in both Architectural and Civil Engineering. He retired to Gaylord in 1974 after a career in his own firm. His contributions include the design and building of hundreds of homes, factories, office buildings and churches. Mr. Wright was known as a master craftsman, with hobbies in woodworking, sculpting and painting. His devotion to family and church was evidenced in his activities such as such as Scouting, where he founded and served as Scoutmaster of Troop 479 in Grosse Pointe. His contributions to several churches were donations of outstanding architectural and engineering designs. Mr. Wright is survived by his wife of 53 years, Margaret, sons Kenneth and Donald and 5 grandchildren.".

4 Lester Allan WRIGHT4,5,6 (1877-1948) [3]. Born 12 Dec 1877, Birch Run, Saginaw County, MI.6 Marr Grace R. ROSE 18 Oct 1899, Vienna Township, Genesee County, MI. Died 11 Jul 1948, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI.7,8 Cause: Parkinson's Disease, cerebral hemorrhage. Buried 14 Jul 1948, Forest Lawn Cemetary, Section 2, Lot 84, Detroit, Mi.8

From a Pontiac, MI newspaper.

1897-12-17 - "Lester Wright of Birch Run was a guest of friends here [Royal Oak] the fore part of the week."

After their marriage, Grace and Lester Wright lived on the east side of Gara Road, between County Line Rd. (Willard Rd.) and Burt Rd., just north of the intersection of Courtney Rd. (now named Wenn Rd.). Some time after 1902 they moved to 213 Mill Street in Clio where they lived until 1915.

From the Clio Messenger with dates as listed.

January 18, 1907 - "Lester Wright has been confined to bed for several days by illness."

April 18, 1907 - "The M.E. church is to be remodeled by L. A. Wright. An addition will be made to the edifice in the shape of a new entrance and a new class room."

August 21, 1908 - "Lester Wright has been awarded the contract for the construction of a fine new residence for C. C. Beeman. The new house will go up next to the residence of J. W. Buffum."

April 19, 1912 - "L. A. Wright & Co. are building an addition on the south end of their lumber shed. The addition is 44x42 and is two stories high. The upper floor will be used for storing sash, doors and frames. On the lower floor the west side will be used for cement, plaster and lime, while the east side will be divided into three storage rooms one of which will be used for mouldings, one for hardware and glass, and the third for general storage. Outside of the village, building operations are at full blast. Wright & Co. have a list of over 40 barns which are either being built or are to be built within a radius of about 10 miles. There are also about 17 sheds and other outbuildings on the list besides the barns."

April 19, 1912 - "L. A. Wright & Co. are having their addition surveyed and plotted. They will build either 2 or 3 houses this season. Their houses will be built to sell at about $900 or $1000 each. "

July 5, 1912 - "L. A. Wright and family and Pearl Foster, of Birch Run, spent the Fourth at North Lake."

February 28, 1913 - "L. A. Wright & Co. have taken over the entire stock of lumber and mill work of the C. Stevens estate."

March 13, 1913 - "MASS MEETING PROVED SUCCESS. Flow of Oratory Drom Local and Imported Speaker Capped Favorable Climax.
Fridayevening last, as scheduled, the Clio board of trade caused their final effore in behalf of the good of the people for better things and a pavement to be out forth in the form of sound argument and good oratory at Frosts' hall. Not being able to secure the two speakers from FLint, they pressed out genial fellow townsman, E.E. Huyck, into service, taking the place of "two," he acquitted himself well and creditable too. President of the village John W. Hurd had somewhat to say also demonstrating as did ???? he has on mean ability, especially when the good and welfare of Clio is at stake. Miss Gladys Wright gave a very appropriate reading in which she put on the local touch for good pavements. President L. A. Wright and secretary H.J. Reinig of the board of trade also are to be commended for their untiring efforts in behalf of the paving proposition. As a result of these mentioned and many more good loyal progressive citizens. Hats off everybody, "We are to pave the main streets of Clio".

March 21, 1913 - "L. A. Wright made a business trip to Flint the first of the week."

March 21, 1913 - "L. A. Wright & Co. have secured the contract for building a large addition to the church at Mt. Morris."

April 18, 1913 - "L. A. Wright made a business trip to Saginaw Monday."

April 18, 1913 - "L. A. Wright & Co. will start at once building a residence for Mr. Kummer on the Adams addition."

June 13, 1913 - "L. A. Wright of Clio was in town [Mt. Morris] Wednesday."

July 18, 1913 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright were in Saginaw Monday."

July 25, 1913 - "Work is progressing rapidly on the brick block being built by H. F. Bodine on Vienna street west. Lester A. Wright is the architect and contractor."

August 1, 1913 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright and children were at Flushing last Sunday."

August 15, 1913 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright and son spent Saturday and Sunday in Mayville, the guests of Marshall Kitcher and family."

August 28, 1913 - "SOME NOVEL CLIO EXHIBITS THIS YEAR
At the new brick block being erected by H. F. Bodine, the initial effort which starts the Industrial Exposition and a feature which will hereafter be held in connection with Home-coming, the following have exhibits:
Clio Condensed Milk Co.
Clio Basket Factory
Clio Manufacturing Co.
E. H. Fox
James & Haven
Manley Brown
L. A. Wright & Co.
Doyle Bros.
W. H. Stout
"Made in Clio" is the slogan of the manufacturers. Somewhat metropolitan. And rightly so."

Saturday, January 9, 1914. "Lumber Yard Changes Hands - L.A. Wright sells his interest to E.R. May. Buys Clio Milk Condensary."

February 6, 1914. "L.A. Wright and B.W. Doyle were in Detroit on business the fore part of the week."

February 6, 1914. "R.H. Rose, associate editor of the Royal Oak Tribune, and his family, were guests of Mr. and Mrs. L.A. Wright and Mrs. Ed Burley. Mr Rose says that his town is very prosperous and that the newspaper business if flourishing there."

April 3, 1914 - Advertisement. "Just arrived. Big Case of yellow Pine Barn Material, including No.1 and No. 2 Barn Siding, Shiplap, Etc. Car of the famous Kristolite Plaster. On Hand. Everything that is needed to Build Buildings. Coming. Cars of Cement, the only brand UNIVERSAL. Solid car of Interior finish for up to date dwellings. Lumber in Car Lots, We are wholesalers. L.A. Wright & Co."

June 12, 1914. "George Wright and wife, of Birch Run, were guests of their son, L.A. Wright, and family, Sunday."

November 7, 1913 - "L. A. Wright & Co. are adding another line to their business, preparing sheds for hard and soft coal and wood."

Friday, January 1, 1915. "Many a man has said that it is more pleasing to give than to receive. We, for our last printed appearances, wish to thank our many customers for their continuous patronage during our past seven years of business. Just remember that the same high grade Lumber, Coal and Building Material will be here for a continuous Happy New Year of 1915. To ALL. L.A. Wright & Co."

January 1, 1915. "January 1, 1915 - The old and well established lumber yards of Mt. Morris and Clio, which have been operated under the name of L. A. Wright & Co., will be changed after January 1 to May Lumber Co. Mr. Ernest R. May, of Saginaw, purchased the yards from Mr. Wright nearly a year ago but continues business under the old name."

January 22, 1915. "CHANGE OF MANAGERS. H. R. Franzen, who for a few weeks was manager of the Clio Condensed Milk Co., resigned his position the latter part of last week to accept a position as Dairy Inspector for the state of Wisconsin. Mr. Franzen has been succeeded as manager of the condensary by L. A. Wright, who requires no introduction to the farmers of this section, having enjoyed their confidence and patronage in another line of business for years. Mr. Wright helped to build the condensary and installed all of the apparatus. He has been, virtually, superintendent of the manufacturing for some time, so that we have every reason to believe he will conduct the plant successfully and that all its patrons will be given square and liberal treatment on all their transactions. As we have stated before, the mild receipts and business of the factory are showing a constant and satisfactory growth."

July 23, 1915 "Milk Condensery Destroyed by Fire. What was probably the most disastrous fire in the history of Clio took place last Friday evening, at about 9:15 o'clock, when the fine new milk condensery that opened for business but little more than a year ago (a year in March to be exact) was largely destroyed by fire originating in an explosion that took place in the milk drying cabinet."

July 23, 1915 "L. A. Wright expects to go to Detroit within a few days where he will engage in business as a contractor and builder. John Carter, we understand, will work for Mr. Wright."

August 6, 1915 "L. A. Wright and family are preparing to move to Royal Oak. They expect to leave for the latter place the first of next week."

August 13, 1915 "L. A. Wright sold his buggy horse to McCormick & Conlee."

August 13, 1915 "Glenn Williams and family will occupy L. A. Wright's house on Mill street."

August 13, 1915 "L. A. Wright and family left for their new home in Royal Oak, Thursday."

September 3, 1915 "John Carter left for Royal Oak, Tuesday morning, where he will engage in contracting and building, having entered into a partnership with L. A. Wright for that purpose."

October 1, 1915 "John Carter and Ed Lowell, who are engaged at carpenter work in Detroit, spent Sunday with their families in Clio. Fred Mann and Herb. Carter are also working at the carpenter business in Detroit, being in the employ of Wright & Carter, who are engaged in building and selling houses there, and have two residences about completed. Mr. Carter says the building business is booming in many sections of the city."

December 17, 1915 - "From a postal card received this week we learn that Lester Wright and family have moved from Royal Oak to Highland Park. Wright & Carter, who are engaged in building in Detroit, had rather good luck, a few days ago, when the city decided it wanted for school purposes the land on which they had three houses nearly completed and bought the property from them. One of these houses Mr. Carter intended to occupy himself, and as a consequence of the city's action he was compelled to rent a house until such time as he can build another. "

December 24, 1915 - "L. A. Wright and family, of Highland Park, spent Christmas with relatives and friends in this vicinity. Mr. Wright returned to his home, Monday, but the other members of the family will remain until after New Years."

From the History of Michigan by Charles Moore, 1915.

"Lester A. Wright. Though still in his twenties, Mr. Wright has shown the qualities of a progressive and successful man of business, and is one of the ablest merchants of Clio. He is a lumber dealer and manufacturer in that locality, and if past performances are a criterion by which to judge the future, Mr. Wright has a career of splendid accomplishments before him.
He was born in Saginaw county in Birch Run Township, December 12, 1877, a son of George W. and Cecelia (sic) (Wheeks) Wright. The ancestors on the paternal side are English, though the paternal grandmother was Scotch. The Wheeks family were likewise of English origin, and among the ealy settlers of Michigan, while the Wrights first settled in New York. George W. Wright was born in New York, and in 1863, when twelve years old, the family settled as pioneers in Birch Run Township of Saginaw county. George W. Wright is still living, and is a very successful man. In politics he is Republican, and has membership in the Methodist church. Cecelia Wheeks was born in Michigan, in Genesee county, and her father was one of the pioneers of this section, a hunter and trapper in the early days, and later a substantial farmer. He is also still living, and of her six children, five are alive, as follows: Myrtie Wright, deceased; Lester A.; Arthur C. Wright, who is a farmer in Birch Run Township; Clara, wife of Irvin Covert, of Clio; and Hattie, wife of George Zeuligg, a farmer of Birch Run township.
Lester A. Wright grew up on a farm, had a country school education and finished with the Lamar village schools. At the age of eighteen he left school and took up th active work of a career and continued at farming until he was twenty-two. Learning the carpenter's trade, he followed that vocation as a journeyman, and gradually got into contracting, which was his exclusive work up to 1909. He then established the L.A. Wright Lumber Company at Clio, his associate in the enterprise being Ernest May. This firm also conducts another lumber yard at Mount Morris and outside the city of Flint they do the largest lumber business in Genesee county. Mr. Wright has membership in the Michigan Retail Lumber Dealers' Association. He is still actively identified with building and contracting business, and his record in that line included a large number of important structures in Genesee county. In the spring of 1912 Mr. Wright entered the manufacturing field when he took the general management of the Clio Manufacturing Company, a new industry, the output of which is tables. The factory employes about eighteen workmen and the business is getting well established an promises to be a very important local institution in the village of Clio. Mr. Wright is a Republican, but little part in politics except as a worker for good government and the best interests of his home community. He has served as councilman for several terms and is now president of the Clio Board of Trade. His church is the Methodist. On October 12, 1899, he was married in Vienna, Genesee county, to Miss Grace R. Rose who was born in Michigan, a daughter of Ransom K. Rose, one of the early settlers in Genesee county. They have two children, Gladys, born November 1, 1900, at Birch Run; and Harold R. Wright, born November 14, 1909, at Saginaw."

April 7, 1916 - "L. A. Wright, of Highland Park, was in town Sunday. He informs us that the building industry in which he is engaged, is flourishing."

July 7, 1916 - "L. A. Wright and family, of Detroit, visited Clio friends over Sunday. Mr. Wright returned to his work Monday, but the family remained for a few days longer visit."

December 29, 1916 - "L. A. Wright and family and John Carter and family, of Detroit, have been guests of Clio relatives during the past week. Mr. Wright reports the building business as flourishing in that city and says they have no difficulty in disposing of houses as rapidly as they can build them."

March 2, 1917 - "John Carter and family, of Detroit, were Clio visitors, Saturday. During the past season Messrs. Carter and Wright built 23 homes."

December 28, 1917 - "L. A. Wright and family, of Detroit, are visiting Thos. Carter and Ed. Burley and their families and other friends in this vicinity during the holidays."

October 11, 1918 - "L. A. Wright, of Detroit, spent Saturday with Clio friends."

September 18, 1919 - "John Carter, a former well known resident of this village, who has been residing for a year or two past on a farm near Ann Arbor, has sold the farm, we understand, and is now living in Detroit, where he is identified with Wright Construction Company, which is engaged in building residences on a large scale. This company is headed by L. A. Wright who at one time ran the lumber yard here."

December 25, 1919 - "L. A. Wright of Detroit, was a pleasant caller at The Messenger office, this week. He says the building business has been booming in Detroit, the past year, and that his firm, during that period, has built thirty-six houses."

December 30, 1920 - "Lester Wright and wife, of Detroit, are spending the week with friends in Clio."

June 2, 1921 - "Lester Wright and wife of Detroit, visited friends in Clio over the week end."

August 18, 1921 - "Lester Wright and family of Detroit are in Clio for the Home Coming."

January 4, 1923 - "Lester Wright and wife of Detroit spent the week end and New Year's with friends in Birch Run and Clio."

May 31, 1923 - "Lester Wright, wife and son, and granddaughter, of Detroit were in Clio for Decoration day."

September 13, 1923 - "L. A. Wright and wife of Detroit, spent Sunday with relatives here. Mr. Wright is engaged in the business of building and selling homes and says that his firm (himself and partner) have built 10 so far this season and that they consider the season to have been very satisfactory."

December 6, 1923 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright of Detroit spent Thanksgiving with Thomas Carter and family.

1924-02-28 - "Lester Wright and wife spent the week end in Clio with friends."

Two booklets giving historical accounts, Railroad Nostalgia and Down Memory Lane, report "On the east side of the tracks, and at the north end of Railway Street, L.A. Wright manufactured sash and doors, and in partnership with Ernest May, established the May Lumber Company. The company built about 30 homes and the Thetford Church. A disastrous fire destroyed the business in 1914". Newspaper accounts also show Lester in the Hard Coal business as well as the founder of the Clio Condensary. In 1913, at a cost of $40,000 a factory was erected adjacent to the railroad, west of the tracks and on the south side of Johnson Street. The promoters planned to buy milk from farmers and process it into powdered milk. It soon became evident that more water was needed than their well could produce. More bad luck followed because of two disabling fires. After the construction of an expensive pipe line and pumping station for obtaining water from the Pine Run Creek, the company was sold to the Detroit Creamery Co. in 1915.

The following are articles from the Royal Oak Tribune:

July 30, 1915 - "L.A. Wright, of Clio is the guest of his brother-in-law, R.H. Rose. Mr. Wright was formerly interested in the milk condensery at Clio, but a few days ago the plant was entirely consumed by fire. He is thinking of locating in this village and engaging in a general contracting business, which was his business before becoming connected with the milk condensery."

August 20, 1915 - "Mr. and Mrs. L.A. Wright and family, from Clio, have moved to their home on Pleasant street."

September 15, 1915 - "A family gathering was held at the home of Rosina Rose on Seventh street, Sunday, the following guests being present: Mr. and Mrs. William M. Hall, of Troy; Mr. and Mrs. P.W. Parmenter and children, of Troy; Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Burley, of Clio; Mr. and Mrs. L.A. Wright and daughter, of this village, and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rose and daughter, of this village. A sumptuous banquet had been prepared for the occasion."

November 5, 1915 - "Mr. and Mrs. George Wright of Birch Run, were the guests of their son, L.A. Wright and family over Sunday."

December 10, 1915 - "L.A. Wright is moving to Highland Park today, and will reside at 200 Cortland avenue."

In 1918 Lester and Grace moved to Detroit, first living at 519 Navahoe and then in 1925 they moved to 463 Algonquin Ave. Lester was a successful builder in the Detroit area for many years, and retired to a home in Grosse Pointe in 1940. Lester Wright died in his home at 76 Hawthorne blvd. in 1948.

1927-08-18 - "Friends in Clio are receiving cards from Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright, who are making a trip through the East and Canada. They visited Quebec and Montreal. The streets in those cities have both English and French names."

1927-08-25 - "L. A. Wright and family spent the week-end with Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Carter. They were returning to their home in Detroit after a trip through the east. They visited New York and Vermont, passed through the White and Catskill mountains and thence toured Montreal and Quebec. They then drove to the Canadian Soo where they crossed into Michigan and came to Clio by way of the West Michigan Pike. They report a wonderful trip."

1929-03-21- "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright of Detroit, were Clio visitors the early part of the week. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Carter, who have been visiting in Detroit for the past two weeks at the Wright home, returned to Clio with them."

1929-11-14 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright and son and girl friend of Detroit, spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Carter."

1930-01-23 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright of Detroit were guests of Mrs. Lucy Burley on Thursday."

From the Grosse Pointe Review.

July 15, 1948 - "Final rites were administered Wednesday from the Verheyden Funeral Home, 16300 Mack, for Lester A. Wright, of 76 Hawthorn. He died Sunday, July 11. He is survived by his wife, Grace R., a son, Harold R., a daughter Mrs. Gladys E. Dick, and one brother and two sisters."

From the Grosse Pointe News.

July 15, 1948 - "Lester A. Wright, of 76 Hawthorne road, died on July 11. Death was attributed to cerebral hemorrhage. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Grace R. Wright, his daughter, Mrs. Gladys E. Dick, and his son, Harold R. Wright. Funeral services were held on July 13 at 1 p.m. Burial took place at Forest Lawn cemetery."

NOTE: On Lester's WWI registration card he spelled his middle name as "Allan". On his WWII registration card he spelled his middle name as "Allen" and signed it "Alen". On the WWII registratiion card for his son, Harold R. Wright, he lists his father’s name as Lester Allen Wright. So, we’ve got one Allan, two Allen's and one Alen.

8 George W. WRIGHT9,10 (1852-1932) [15]. Born 5 Feb 1852, Tioga County, NY.9 Marr Celia E. WEEKS 27 Jul 1874, Saginaw County, MI.9,11 Died 21 Mar 1932, Birch Run, Saginaw County, MI.9,10 Cause: Cancer of stomach. Buried 24 Mar 1932, Birch Run Cemetery, Birch Run, MI.9,10

From the Clio Messenger, dates as listed.

June 12, 1914. "George Wright and wife, of Birch Run, were guests of their son, L.A. Wright, and family, Sunday."

March 29, 1918 - "George Wright and wife, Arthur Wright and family, of County Line and Mrs. A. M. Wilbur spent Sunday with George Geiger and family."

January 2, 1919 - "Henry Wright, of Saginaw, is making an extended visit at the home of his brother, George Wright."

March 13, 1919 - "Miss Gladys Wright, of Detroit, recently visited at the home of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. George Wright. [Birch Run]"

1926-02-04 - "George Wright is quite sick at his home north and east of the village [Birch Run]."

Obituary from the Saginaw Daily News, March 22, 1932.

"George W. Wright, 80 years old, died Monday at his home in Birch Run. He was born in Tioga county, New York, Feb. 5th, 1852 and was married in 1874 to Celia Weeks. She died about 12 years ago. Surviving are two sons and three daughters: Lester of Detroit, Mrs. Clara Covert of Saginaw, Arthur, Mrs. Burdena Hicks and Mrs. Hattie Zuellig of Birch Run. He also leaves 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Mr. Wright had been a Mason for 50 years, and was a life member of Vienna Lodge No. 205, F. & A.M. of Clio. The funeral will take place Thursday with a private service at the home at 2 p.m. At ??5 p.m. there will be a public service under auspices of the Vienna lodge at the Birch Run M.P. church. Rev. H.E. Kuh?man will officiate and burial will be in Birch Run cemetery."

The Degree dates at the Vienna Masonic Lodge for George are as follows:

EA - Entered Apprentice Degree - October 31, 1882
FC - Passed Fellowship Degree - December 05, 1882
MM - Master Mason Degree - February 27, 1883
Life Member - February 27, 1923.

9 Celia E. WEEKS9,12,13 (1859-1920) [89]. Born 26 Apr 1859, MI. Died 11 May 1920, Saginaw, Saginaw County, MI.14 Cause: Cancer of stomach. Buried Birch Run Cemetery, Birch Run, MI.14

Both Celia Weeks Wright and her sister, Julia Weeks Eckard, named one daughter 'Burdena' that went by either Bird or Birdie.

From the Clio Messenger, November 1, 1912 - "Mrs. Wright of Birch Run is spending a few days at the home of her daughter, Mrs. George Zuellig."

From the Clio Messenger, May 13, 1920 - "OBITUARY - Mrs. G.W. Wright, of Birch Run, passed away at a hospital in Saginaw, Tuesday morning, May 11, following operative treatment which she underwent on the 3d inst. She was born in Vienna township, April 26, 1859, her maiden name being Clara E. Wicks [Celia E. Weeks], and was united in marriage to G.W. Wright 47 years ago. During her entire married life she had resided in Birch Rin., and through many excellencies of characgter had endeared herself to a very wide circle of friends. Mrs. Wright was the mother of si children, of whom one, Mrs. Myrtle Foster, passed away none years ago. Those living are L.A. Wright, formerly of Clio, now of Detroit, Arthur Wright, Mrsl Berdena Hicks and Mrs. Hattie Zuelling, of Birch Rn, and Mrs. Clara Covert, of Saginaw. Beside these children, she is survived by her husband and fourteen grandchildren; also by one brother, George Wicks [Weeks], of Saginaw, and one sister, Mrs. Julia Eckart, of New Pensington, Penn. Funeral services were held this (Thursday) afternoon from the late residence of deceased in Borch Run. Interment was in Birch Run cemetery.".

5 Grace R. ROSE (1878-1960) [4]. Born 4 Nov 1878, Vienna Township, MI. Died 23 Jul 1960, Farmington, MI.8 Cause: Cancer. Buried 26 Jul 1960, Forest Lawn Cemetary, Section 2, Lot 84, Detroit, Mi.8

From the Bill Poster and other Pontiac newspapers.

1893-11-02 - "Miss Grace Rose and her niece, Viola Rose, of Clinton are visiting relatives here [Royal Oak]."

1894-12-07 - "Misses Rosalie and Grace Rose have returned to their home at Clio."

From a December 3, 1897 newspaper article in Royal Oak. "Miss Grace Rose of Clio is spending the winter with her sister, Mrs Ira P. Barnam (Charlotte Rose)." From the same paper on December 31, 1897. "Lester Wright, of Birch Run was a recent caller on Miss Grace Rose, on his way to Pennsylvania."

From the Clio Messenger, dates as listed.

April 26, 1912 - "Mrs. Lester Wright spent Wednesday in Saginaw."

August 2, 1912 - "Mrs. L. A. Wright and Mrs. Ed Burley spent last week with Royal Oak friends."

August 30, 1912 - "Mrs. L. A. Wright and Mrs. Jas. Blight were in Saginaw Tuesday to visit their niece, Mrs. Edward Lowell who recently underwent an operation in the Woman's Hospital in that city. Mrs. Lowell is reported as doing nicely."

July 14, 1916 - "Mrs. L. A. Wright, daughter, Gladys, and son, Harold, are visiting friends in Flushing."

November 8, 1918 - "Mrs. Ed. Burley left Sunday to spend the week at the home of her sister, Mrs. L. A. Wright, of Royal Oak."

June 26, 1919 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright, of Detroit, spent Sunday with the latter's sister, Mrs. Ed Burley."

July 10, 1919 - "Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Burley visited the latter's sister, Mrs. L. A. Wright, of Detroit, Saturday. With Mr. and Mrs. Wright they motored to Pontiac to visit Mr. Burley's sister, Miss Nellie Burley."

August 5, 1920 - "Mrs. Thomas Carter and daughter, Thelma, and Mrs. James Blight left, last Friday, for Detroit, where they expected to spend a few days with their sister, Mrs. L. A. Wright, who recently underwent a serious operation at the Evangelical Deaconess Hospital."

1926-02-25 - "Mr. and Mrs. Lester Wright of Detroit spent the week end with friends in Clio and Birch Run."

1926-07-01 - "L. A. Wright and wife of Detroit spent the week end with Thomas Carter and family."

1927-02-17 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright, of Detroit, visited friends in Clio the past week."

1927-05-19 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright, of Detroit, were Sunday guests of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Carter."

1927-06-16 - "Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Wright of Detroit, spent the week end with Mr. and Mrs. Tom Carter.".

10 Ransom K. ROSE10 (1832-1908) [139]. Born 15 Jan 1832, Allegheny County, NY.10 Marr Jane PRIDGEON 1853.15 Died 9 Nov 1908, Clio, Genesee County, MI.10 Cause: Cancer of the liver. Buried Pine Run Cemetery, Vienna Township, Clio, MI.

Excerpts from newspaper obituaries, Nov. 1908, and researchers notes ( ). Ransom K. Rose died at the residence of his daughter Mrs. Edgar Burley (Charlotte M. Rose) in Clio November 9, 1908. He was brought here from Detroit where he was taken three weeks ago for treatment at Harper Hospital for cancer of the stomach. He was born in Allegheny County, NY January 12, 1832 and came with his parents to Greenfield, Wayne County at the age of five years where they resided for several years when they moved to Royal Oak. At the age of 25 years he was married to Jane Pridgeon. They lived at Royal Oak until April 1869, when they came to Vienna Township and settled on the farm where they have resided ever since. (SW corner of Old Plank and County Line). He was the father of eleven children, six boys and five girls, one boy dying when he was eight years old. (Mark Rose b. 1868, d. Feb. 13, 1876). The children remaining are Richard H. of Royal Oak, Mrs. Edgar Burley, Mrs. L.A. Wright (Grace R. Rose), of Clio, Daniel L. of Flushing, Henry K. of Burt, Mrs. T. Carter (Emma Rose), of Arbela, William H. of Birch Run, Mrs. H. Servis (Rosalia Rose, husband actually Lafayette Servos) of Montrose, Mrs. James Blight (Rosina Rose), and Clyde A. of Vienna. The funeral was held from the residence of his daughter, Mrs. Burley Wednesday at 2 p.m. his five sons acting as pall bearers and the remains were laid to rest in the the family lot in Pine Run Cemetery. Rev. J.W. Will was the officiating clergyman. The following relatives were present from out of town; Mr. and Mrs. W.M. Hall (his sister Rebecca Angeline Rose and husband William Marcus Hall), of Birmingham, Rosina Rose (sister), of Royal Oak. He left a widow and three sisters, Mrs. W.M. Hall of Birmingham; Mrs. M. Robinson (Rosalia Rose), of Royal Oak. Mrs. Thomas Carter was unable to attend the funeral on account of sickness. The five sons of Mr. Rose acted as pall bearers fulfilling the desire to that effect expressed by the deceased prior to his death. Mr. Rose was a man held high in the esteem of his neighbors, of sterling character and a man who will be greatly missed by a large circle of friends.

In an article in the November 25, 1921 Royal Oak Tribune, Justice Richard H. Rose, the first child of Ransom and Jane, is quoted with reference to the location and type of property originally owned by Ransom as follows: "Justice Richard H. Rose, in discussing the remarkable rise in the value of Royal Oak real estate, recalls that his father sold 40 acres in Ferndale just south of the Machpelah cemetery for about $1,000 about 40 years ago. The judge says that all it was good for was to raise blue racers and mud turtles.".

11 Jane PRIDGEON16,17 (1837-1914) [140]. Born 28 Feb 1837, Lincolnshire, England.17 Died 27 Feb 1914, Clio, Genesee County, MI.17 Buried 2 Mar 1914, Pine Run Cemetery, Vienna Township, Clio, MI.

From the Bill Poster and other Pontiac newspapers.

1893-10-26 - "Mrs. R.K. Rose is visiting relatives here [Royal Oak]."

1894-03-23 - "Mrs. R. K. Rose, of Clio, is here [Royal Oak] on a visit to her daughter, Mrs. Ira P. Barnum."

1894-05-11 - "Mrs. R. K. Rose, visited her brother, Capt. John Pridgeon, in Detroit last week."

1894-06-01 - "Mrs. R. K. Rose has returned to her home at Clio."

1894-11-30 - "Mrs. R. K. Rose and daughter Grace, of Clio, are here [Royal Oak] on a visit to relatives."

1895-01-04 - "Mr. and Mrs. Ira P. Barnum, Mrs. R. K. Rose and Richard H. Rose spent New Year's with relatives in Oxford."

1895-02-01 - "Mrs. R.K. Rose and daughter Rosalie have returned to their home at Clio."

1895-03-15 - "Mrs. R.K. Rose is visiting relatives in town [Royal Oak]."

1896-03-06 - "Mrs. R. K. Rose and son Clyde of Clio are visiting relatives in town [Royal Oak]."

From the Clio Messenger, dates as listed.

1912-08-30 - "Mrs. R. K. Rose has been ill but is some better."

1913-01-10 - "Mrs. R. K. Rose has been very ill, but is somewhat improved."

March 6, 1914 with researchers comments( ). "Died at the residence of her daughter, in this village (Clio), Feb. 27th 1914, Jane, widow of the late Ransom K. Rose. Jane Pridgeon was born in Greenfield, Wayne County, Mich., Feb. 28, 1837. (This is in error, as Jane was born in Lincolnshire, England, the sixth of twelve children and the last to be born in England before emigrating to Wayne County, MI.) She was married at an early age and lived in Royal Oak Township until April, 1869 when she removed with her family onto a wild tract of land in the northern part of Vienna Township (The actual location of their farm was the NW corner of section 3, on the SW corner of Old Plank Rd. and County Line. They were on the Genesee / Saginaw County line and their farmhouse faced east toward Old Plank Rd. ) where she resided until the death of her husband, Nov 9, 1909. (Ransom died in 1908), when she came to Clio, making her home with her eldest daughter, Mrs. Edgar Burley. (Charlotte M. Rose) She was the mother of eleven children, ten of whom survive, five sons and five daughters, one son Mark dying at the age of 9 years. The surviving children are Richard H. Rose, of Royal Oak; William L. Rose, of Mayville; Daniel Rose, of Flushing; Henry K. Rose, of Burt; Mrs. James Blight (Rosina Rose) and Mrs. Lafayette Servas (Rosalia Rose Servos), of Montrose; Mrs. L.A. Wright (Grace R. Rose), Mrs Edgar Burley (Charlotte M. Rose) and Mrs. Thomas Carter (Emma Rose), of Clio, and Clyde of County Line. She is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. H. Fuller, of Grand Rapids, and Mrs. Sophia Kenney of Detroit. Mrs. Rose also left nineteen grandchildren and one great grandchild. The funeral was held from the residence of her daughter March 2, at 2:00 pm, Rev. C.W. Greene, pastor of the M.P. Church conducting the services. Relatives from a distance present at the funeral were Mrs. William Hall (Rebecca Angeline Rose, sister in law) and Mr. and Mrs. Percival Parmenter (Charlotte B. Hall, daughter of Rebecca) of Birmingham. The five sons acted as pall bearers and the remains were interred beside those of her husband and son in Pine Run Cemetery.".

3 Margaret Pearl HIGGIN (1913-2004) [5]. Born 30 Jul 1913, Toronto, Ont, Canada. Died 5 Nov 2004, Mercy Manor, Grayling, MI.1,18 Cause: Renal failure. Buried 8 Nov 2004, Elmwood Cemetery, Grayling, MI.1

Margaret Higgin was born at home, 90 Medland Crescent, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She was born at 5 am on July 30, 1913. In attendance was Doctor Minerva Reid.

When Margaret was a baby, possibly two years old, she crawled out an upstairs window onto the roof. A neighbor, Mrs Dwyer, called her mother to tell her that her daughter was on the roof.

When Margaret was five years old, she remembers being outside with her friend Rita Dwyer listening to all the horns honking and bells ringing on November 11, 1918 when World War I was over.

Excerpt from an e-mail written by Ken Wright to David Gustner and Lynne Greening, 4/16/2000. "That brought to mind the wedding announcement of Mom and Dad that said they were going to live at 463 Algonquin after their marriage, so I just called Mom to ask about it. She said they never did live with Lester and Grace. They rented an upstairs apartment first, on a street that she can't remember. Then they rented a house on Eastlawn, then rented at 5039 Lakepointe, where they were when I was born (1938), then moved to another rented house on Lakewood. Then Dad built the house on 60 Hawthorn Blvd in 1941. She could not remember any of the street numbers, but I have a letter addressed to them at the 5039 Lakepointe address. I had no idea that they lived in so many places before Hawthorne, or that they were renting rather than buying. I had just assumed that they lived in a house built by Dad and Lester. Wrong! Another thing she mentioned that I didn't remember is that Lester and Grace moved to Grosse Pointe after Mom and Dad. She thought about a year, making their move from Algonquin to Hawthorn in 1942." We later learned the actual sequence and addresses of where Harold and Margaret Lived.

1935 - 1937, 1350 E. Grand Blvd. Apt 109, Detroit
1937 - 1940, 5039 Lakepointe av., Detroit
1940 - 1941, 708 Eastlawn av., Detroit
1941 - 1941, 4327 Lakewood av., Detroit
1941 - 1954, 60 Hawthorn Blvd., Detroit
1954 - 1974, 30030 West Gate, Farmington
1974 - 1989, 6738 Dogwood Court, Gaylord
1989 - 2000, 730 S. Saginaw, Apt. 215, Lapeer (Margaret only)
2000 - 2004, Mercy Manor, 1100 Michigan Ave, Grayling, MI

Lester and Grace Wright also proceeded Margaret and Harold to Grosse Pointe, actually moving to 76 Hawthorne Blvd. in 1940.

Note on Marriage to Harold Ransom WRIGHT: Margaret P. Higgin and Harold Ransom Wright met at the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church in 1934.
They were married one year later at the church office on May 29, 1935. Harold and Margaret spent a portion of their honeymoon at the home of Harold's uncle, Mr. William Rose and wife. They will make their home at 463 Algonquin Avenue in Detroit. Harold Wright is one of the younger members of the board of Deacons of the church. Margaret's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Higgin reside at 71 McLean Blvd. in Toronto.

6 John Edwin HIGGIN19,20,21,22 (1888-1982) [6]. Born 19 Dec 1888, Preston, Lancashire, England.19,20,22 Christened 3 Mar 1889, Penworthham, Lancashire, England.22 Marr Pearl RIDDELL 30 Aug 1911, Toronto Canada.23 Died 6 Jun 1982, Toronto, Ont. Canada.19

12 Jonathan HIGGIN20,21,24,25,26,27,28,29 (c. 1861-1935) [1105]. Born c. 1861, Rochdale, Lancashire.20,25 Marr Catherine Jane SHARPLES 18 Feb 1886, Preston, Lancashire, England.25 Died 29 Jun 1935, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.29 Cause: Carcinoma of stomach.

Frederick worked on a small ferry that went from Toronto to Toronto Island. Perhaps he was the Captain. Margaret Wright reports that her grandfather Frederick lived into his 70's. He lived at 38 Elmer Ave., Toronto. Margaret remembers visiting their house often as a child, going down a long hall to the dining room where everyone always played some kind of board game. She recalls her Aunt Blanche was often there with her son Lennie. Also there was Cecil, husband of Marion, with their pet ferret.

His death certificate reports that he had been in Canada for 35 years and worked for the Royal Canadian Yacht Club for 30 years as a special messenger.

It appears from the England and Wales marriage record that Frederick was actually named Jonathan. It is not known if Frederick was a middle name or an assumed name.

Excerpt from The Preston Chronicle and Lancashire Advertiser (Preston, Lancashire, england).

21 August 1880 - "Jonathan Higgin and Thomas Harrison were summoned for riding bicycles on the footway, on the Preston and Wiggon road, in Walton, on the 3rd and 5th inst. respectively - Each was ordered to pay costs. - Thomas Dewhurst and Wm. Sharples, of Preston, were summoned for trespassing in pursuit of conies on land in Walton, in the occupation of John Margison - Abraham Harper proved seeing the defendants on the land with nets in their possession - Dewhurst was fined 10s and costs and Sharples 5s and costs.".

13 Catherine Jane SHARPLES20,21,23,24,25,26,30 (1865-1926) [1106]. Born 29 Jan 1865, Penwortham, Lancashire, England.19,20,25,26 Died 21 Mar 1926, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.26 Buried St. John's cemetery.26

Margaret Wright reports that she was a very young girl, possibly 9 or 10 (she was actually 13), when her grandmother Catherine died. Margaret said her grandmother was the first dead person she ever saw. The body laid in state at their home on 38 Elmer Avenue, Toronto.

7 Pearl RIDDELL31 (1890-1983) [7]. Born 24 Jan 1890, Singhampton, Ont, Canada.31,32 Died 7 Jan 1983, Toronto, Ont. Canada.19 Buried Highlane Memory Gardens, Toronto, Ont. Canada.

Pearl Riddell who was living and working in Toronto 1908-11, married John Edwin Higgin of Toronto August 30, 1911.

According to conversations with Dorothy Roe, Pearl, who was a sister to Frank Ridell, met John Edwin Higgin when she was Frank who was working as a waiter at the Walter J. Corby restaurant on King Street East in Toronto. Dorothy Roe was the daughter of Frank Riddell.

Pearl's mother, Catharine Riddell, died in her home on Scott Street on October 3, 1927. Catharine's Death Registration indicates that Pearl was caring for her for four months which would be from about September to December of 1927.

14 George Francis RIDDELL23,33 (1843-1921) [16]. Born 23 Jun 1843, Markham Twp Canada West (Ontario).23 Marr Mary Jane MARTIN 25 Apr 1866, Grey County, Ontario. Marr Catherine BELL 16 Aug 1882, Collingwood, Ontario, Canada.23,33,34,35 Died 3 Oct 1921, Singhampton, Ontario.23 Cause: Ciptitis. Buried 6 Oct 1921, Union Cemetery, Singhampton, Ontario, Canada.23

From the Collingwood Bulletin, dates as listed.

March 30, 1900 - "G.F. Riddell has gone to the Soo, where he will saw and hammer this summer. - - Contractor N. McLean is also going west. - - Why don't some of the loafers go?". (Most likely George was joining his son, Augustine, who at this time was working and living in the Soo with his wife Mary J. Hanna.)

October 13, 1921 - "On Tuesday, Oct 4th, this village and section lost one of its oldest residents, in the person of Mr. George Riddel, (Riddell) who died at his home in the village. Mr. Riddel had not been well for some time, still had been confined to his home but a week prior to his death. He had lived in this vicinity for many years and had a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. Deceased is survived by his wife, four daughters and two sons. One son, William was killed overseas. The funeral tool pace (place) Thursday to the Union Cemetery, the services being conducted by Rev. A. Lang, pastor of the Presbyterian church." (The two sons would have been Frank and Oscar and the daughters would have been Georgina, Catherine, Elizabeth and Pearl. None of George's children from his first marriage are included. Note: The death date of October 4th conflicts with the Death Certificate date of October 3rd.)

From the Collingwood Enterprise, dates as listed.

Thursday, July 16, 1925 - "Mrs. Riddell has visitors from Toronto."

Thursday, Aug. 6, 1925 - "Mrs. Riddell has three of her daughters visiting with her." (The three daughters would be Mrs. Georgina Leonard, Mrs. Pearl Higgin and Mrs. Elizabeth Laginess.).

15 Catherine BELL31,33,36,37 (1854-1927) [17]. Born 3 Sep 1854, Singhampton, Ontario, Canada.31,34 Marr John TAYLOR 23 Feb 1870, At John's home in Osprey Township.34 Died 21 Dec 1927, Islington, Ontario at the home of her daughter, Pearl Higgin.19,34 Cause: Carcinoma of Kidney. Buried 24 Dec 1927, Union Cemetery, Singhampton, Ontario, Canada.23

From the Collingwood Enterprise, Thursday, Jan. 27, 1927.

"Mrs. Riddell left last week to spend the rest of the winter in Toronto and Niagara." (In Niagara Falls, New York, Catharine would have been visiting her son Frank and daughter-in-law Molly Riddell, granddaughters Elizabeth and Dorothy and great grandson Jack Strachan (Elizabeth's son, born October 9, 1926). There were a number of family photographs taken probably in the early part of her visit probably in the February-April time frame. Jack Strachan, who is in the photographs, appears to be about six months old.)

From The Advertiser, (newspaper) December 29, 1927.

"Obituary - Mrs. Catharine Bell. On December 21st, 1927, after a lingering illness at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. J.S. Higgins, Scott St., Islington, Catharine Riddell in her 74th year. The funeral service was held at the above address on Thursday at 8 p.m.. Interment was made at Singhampton on Saturday. (Mrs. J.S. Higgins was in fact Mrs. J.E. Higgin, which would be Catharine's daughter, Pearl, from her marriage to George F. Riddell.).

Sources

1"Information provided by Kenneth D. Wright".
2"Certificate of Marriage signed by Wayland Zwayer, Hilda Clinton and Sylvia McGuire.".
3"Death Certificate of Harold R. Wright".
4"See "Notes for" this individual for extensive source documentation".
5"Middle name from Harold R. Wright's SS application form".
6"WWI Selective Service registration card".
7"Obituary in Detroit Times July 13, 1948".
8"Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery Records".
9"Obituary of George W. Wright, Saginaw Daily News, March 22, 1932".
10"Death Certificate".
11"Michigan, Marriage Records, 1867-1952 for George W Wright and Celia E. Weeks".
12"Information provided by Lucy Belill".
13"1870 MI, Genesee Co., Vienna Twp. census".
14"Death certificate of Celia E. Wright".
15"Age of marriage listed on death certificate".
16"Photograph of Jane Pridgeon Rose, Eleanor Jones Lowell, Emma Rose Carter and Ithurmer Edward Lowell about 1913".
17"Death certificate of Jane (Pridgeon) Rose".
18"Death certificate of Margaret P. Wright".
19"Memories of Margaret Wright".
20"1891 Lancashire, Oswaldtwistle census".
21"1911, Ontario, Toronto census".
22"England and Wales Christening record for John Edwin Higgin".
23"Information provided by Greg Mander".
24"Family tree in book written by Jean Higgin Thompson, provided by Patti Thompson Mayes".
25"England and Wales Marriages (1538-1940), record of Jonathan Higgin and Catherine Jane Sharples.".
26"Ontario Death record of Catherine Jane Higgin".
27"1871 Lancashire, Preston, District 68 census".
28"1881 Lancashire, Preston, St. John census".
29"Ontario Canada Death record for Johathan Higgin".
30"1871 Lancashire, Penwortham census".
31Recorded by Robert Royal, April 26, 1901, "1901 Canadian Census".
32"Pearl's handwriting on photo stating place of birth".
33"Ontario Marriage Registration of George Francis Riddell and Kate Taylor".
34"Information provided by Nancy Hallam Sneddon".
35"Biography of Augustine Riddell".
36"Information provided by Beverly Gutenberg".
37"Cliff Rusk website, http://members.home.net/c.rusk/AngusBell&JaneMcDowell.html".