Robert Fletcher Benkelman

Notes:

Bob Benkelman had the following rememberances about his parents early life, and his own birth.

""You'll be ready to deliver around September first", the Doctor advised in early 1926. Dad and Mother had lost a boy named Robert to pneumonia in 1921. He had lived to be three months old.

Mother was known for worrying. If there was nothing to worry about, she worred about that. Isabel was the daughter of Captain Archie Fletcher, a Great Lakes ship's captain and Isabelle Patterson, a beautiful , yet neurotic Canadian. Isabel's life was completely entwined with that of her identical twin, who died at the age of three.

The summer of 1926 in Sandusky, Michigan was an especially hot one. In late August, huge with this person and frenzied, she finally discarded her maternity clothes. Threw them in the trash is what she did and confined her daily attire to a loose bathrobe. She called Aunt Vera, her older brothers wife, affectionately known as "Ooftie" to come stay with her during the final days. "Ooftie" was an RN.

Perhaps reluctant to leave a warm comfortable place, I didn't arrive until October first. At a healthy eleven pounds, ten ounces, Mother's worries could focus elsewhere. I was born at home, what doctor attended, I don't ever recall learning. Mother was nearly 31 years old, Dad was a month away from 28. They had a home beside the Studebaker garage that they owned and operated since the early 20's. Dad was a mechanic, salesman and manager. Mother made regular trips to South Bend, Indiana on the train to drive back with new Studebakers.

The long awaited arrival of Robert Fletcher Benkelman could not have brought enough happiness to offset what was to happen next. However Dad was in an auto smash-up which broke his back and in ensuing months almost killed him. The Studebaker garage was completely destroyed by fire along with their home located directly beside it. They lost everything except the clothes they were wearing and there was no insurance. Nobody talked much about it over the years and some photographs of the disaster complete my information.

It was "start-over" time and on October 23, 1928 Brother, William Donald Benkelman weighed in at a more normal density. They were now in Royal Oak, Michigan. Father was equipment maintenance foreman for the E. B Schwaderer Construction Company. Roads and Highways in Michigan were being paved with concrete and Cass City native, Schwaderer was paving a big share of them."

The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Vol. 7, September 4, 1944, noted that Robert Benkelman was an apprentice reserve of the V-12 units, U.S.N.R., Mt. Pleasant.

The September 6, 1948 issue of the STRIFFLER BENKELMAN BROADCAST, noted that Bob and his brother Bill were Cruise Directors, Bob on the South American and Bill on the North American.

The September 1, 1952 issue of the same periodical, reported that he was announcing from Radio Station WBCM, Bay City, and resided with his family at 501 N. Sheridan. The 1962 issue of the Broadcast reported he had opened a Radio Station, W.K.Y.O, 1360 k.c., in Caro, Michigan. In Volume 25, dated September 6, 1965, it was reported that "The Robert Benkelman family purchased the G.A. Striffler estate appropriatedly in Cass City's Centennial year. They moved on August 1, 1965."

Bob's obituary follows:

Robert F. Benkelman, who worked to develop radio broadcasting in the Thumb, established WKYO in Caro and helped many young local announcers launch their careers, died Friday at St. Mary's Medical Center in Saginaw from complications of pulmonary fibrosis. He was 79. Born in Sandusky on Oct. 1, 1926 to Harold L. and Isabel (Fletcher) Benkelman, he was raised in Cass City, served in the U.S. Navy and graduated from Michigan State with a communications degree in 1950. He married Lorraine B. Smith September 30, 1950, in Kalamazoo. After working as an announcer at WFYC in Alma, WILS in Lansing and WBCM in Bay City, Bob and Chuck Anthony formed a group of investors to start the Water Wonderland Broadcasting Company in the mid-1950s and went on the air as WWBC. He later sold his interest in WWBC and founded the Tuscola Broadcasting Company with James McCoy, going on the air as WKYO 1360 in Caro in 1962. He started WKYO-FM 104.9 in the 1980's, later changing the call letters to WIDL, which now broadcasts on 92.1. Mr. B,' as he called himself on the air, did every job at his stations, from custodial work to writing ad spots to overall management. He felt that small-town radio should be local in nature, giving the public the news of the community, from lost animals to a trip to the Thumb by the president of the U.S. As small-town radio stations are also starting places for young announcers, many of the successful radio and TV people in this area were helped and taught by Bob at WKYO and WIDL. He and his company belonged to the National Association of Broadcasters, the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, the Radio Advertising Bureau, the Caro Chamber of Commerce and the Cass City Chamber of Commerce. A veteran of the U. S. Navy (1944-1946), Bob in 1999 volunteered to help restore the SS American Victory Mariners Memorial and Museum in Tampa, Florida. He was a published writer, with several articles in the local press in Florida. Bob loved working on and operating all manner of transportation - planes, boats and automobiles. During the 1970s, he obtained his pilot's license and owned several planes. He also was an avid boater and amateur auto mechanic. He took physical fitness seriously, regularly lifting weights and doing four-mile fast-walks -- and rejecting offers of car rides from passing friends. He was a member of the Rotary Club, the Caro Moose Lodge, the Caseville Eagles Club and the Elks Club of Ruskin, Florida. He was a life member of the Michigan State University Alumni Association. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine; daughters: Carole Benkelman and her husband Kevin Larke of St. Johns, Catherine and her husband Charles Brooks of Sheridan, Arkansas, Susan Benkelman and her husband Ken Fireman of Bethesda, Maryland; grandchildren Jason Tetreau, Carrie Tetreau, Andrew Larke, Keith Brooks, Steven (Amber) Brooks, Eric Brooks, Catherine Fireman, Alexandra Fireman; and great granddaughter, Faith Brooks. He is preceded in death by his brother, William Benkelman. A graveside service will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, September 26 with Virginia Leipprandt, Jim Joslin and Ken Fireman officiating. Interment will take place in Elkland Township Cemetery. Family and friends may share memories, prayers and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to the Rawson Memorial Library, 6495 Pine St., Cass City, MI 48726. Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City, Michigan Debra L. Kranz (989) 872-2195

Robert married Lorraine Bessie "Smitty" Smith on 30 Sep 1950 in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo County, Michigan. Lorraine (daughter of Clarence William Smith and Cora Susan Page) was born on 12 Feb 1931 in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo County, Michigan; died on 15 Jun 2012 in Caseville, Huron County, Michigan; was buried on 22 Jun 2012 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Married:
Cass City Chronicle
October 6, 1950
Page 6

Miss Smith and Robert Benkelman Wedding Saturday

Miss Lorraine Smith of Kalamazoo became the bride of Robert F. Benkelman Saturday evening at eight o'clock in a ceremony at the First Congregational Church at Kalamazoo. Dr. William A. Keith, church pastor, conducted the rites.

Mrs. Benkelman, who wore a Sophie original of ice blue satin, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence W. Smith of Cambridge Drive, Kalamazoo. The groom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Harold L. Benkelman of Cass City. Among 200 guests who attended the ceremony were 35 relatives and friends of the groom from Cass City.

The maid of honor was Miss Carmen Magnuson of Lapeer. Miss Carole Ann Smith, the bride's sister, and Miss Marjorie Stern were bridesmaids. James McCoy of Port Austin served as best man. The ushers were Charles Auten, Kenneth Price and Dale Kettlewell, all of Cass City.

Satin rickrack braid trimmed the mandarin collar and hipline of the bride's gown. The dress was cut with an off-the-shoulder neckline, short sleeves, a sheer yoke and a long train. An ice-blue half hat secured the three quarter length bridal veil. She carried a shower bouquet of white carnations and ivy.

The attendants' pink and white bouquets were similar to the bride's. The maid of honor wore a pink gown with a lace bodice, a bouffant marquisette satin stole. The skirt and a bridesmaids' dresses were pastel blue. The candlelit church was decorated with white chrysanthemums. gladioli and palms. Miss Shirley Janssen, of Rockford, Ill., a Michigan State College student, was voca1 soloist and Mrs. Lincoln Dupon played the organ selections.

Following the reception in the parlors of the church, the couple left for a short trip. Mrs. Benkelman wore a black ensemble trimmed in black velvet, black velvet accessories and a gold-colored topper.

The couple will live in Lansing. The bride, a graduate of State High School in Kalamazoo, attended Michigan State College. Her husband, who was graduated from Cass City High School, received a B.A. degree in speech, dramatics and radio from MSC.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Fall 2007)

Bob and Smitty purchased the former home of George Albert Striffler in Cass City when their daughters were young. His mother was a Benkelman and father a Striffler. And he left an attic full of "rubbish" mainly old clothing and photos, letters, and news clippings. Bob and Smitty scanned and shared many of the photos and letters with interested family members, and with BonnieMargaret Jacobs when she was reseaching her 1981 book about the Benkelman family. She jokingly referred to them as the "keepers of the gold lined laundry basket."

1. Carole Jean Benkelman was born on 26 Oct 1951 in Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan; died on 19 Jan 2023 in Saint Johns, Clinton County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan.
2. Living
3. Living

Notes:

Ben Benkelman reported that after seing a production of Uncle Tom's Cabin, his brother, Harold, was nicknamed "Sime" by his siblings, who considered him as mean as Simon Legree. The January 17, 1908 Cass City Chronicle had a brief mention of the upcoming "Mason Brother's Uncle Tom's Cabin company at the Opera House," most likely this was the production that inspired Sime's lifelong nickname. Harold would have been around age 11 at the time. He played basketball in High School.

Bob Benkelman wrote that his father was drafted into the army signal corps, where he worked as an airplane mechanic, and was stationed at Rockwell Field near San Diego. According to Wikipedia, the Signal Corps Aviation School was named Rockwell Field, on July 20, 1917, in honor of Second Lt. Lewis C. Rockwell, killed in a crash at College Park in 1912. Also in July, the United States Congress authorized the President to proceed with the taking of North Island for Army and Navy aviation schools. There was a need for trained military pilots as the United States had entered World War I earlier in the year. President Woodrow Wilson signed an Executive Order in August 1917 for condemnation of the land, which was still privately owned. The Army turned over the north end of the island to the Navy and relocated to the south end of North Island, the location of the Rockwell Field Historic District. The Navy's first occupancy of North Island occurred on September 8, 1917, but Congress did not authorize the purchase of North Island, for $6,098,333, until July 1919. The Army selected well-known Detroit industrial architect, Albert Kahn, to develop a site and building designs. Permanent construction of Kahn's design began in mid-1918. During World War I, Rockwell Field provided training for many of the pilots and crews sent to France. It also was the source of men and aircraft for the Sixth and Seventh Aero Squadrons, which established the first military aviation presence in Hawaii and the Panama Canal Zone, respectively.

After his military service, Sime was a Studebaker dealer, and later worked for E.B. Schwaderer, a contractor who built highways throughout the state, and constructed airports all over the midwest during World War II. Before retirement, Harold, worked as head of maintenance of all of the road equipment for the Tuscola County Road Commission.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, November 24, 1933
Local Happenings
Page Four

Mr. and Mrs. Harold Benkelman and Mrs. Curtis Hung spent a few days last week hunting at Fairview.

The 1941 issue of the Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast showed that Mr. and Mrs. H.L. Benkelman and sons had spent the winter holidays in Florida.

Cass City Chronicle
Thursday, April 16, 1981

Benkelman Funeral Held

Harold Leroy (Sime) Benkelman, 83, of Cass City died Wednesday, April 8, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Pontiac.

He was born Nov. 27, 1897, in St. Francis, Kansas, the son of Benjamin F. and Minnie (Jesse) Benkelman. He returned to Cass City as a small child with his parents. They made their home on the family homestead farm.

He married Isabel Fletcher Sept. 14, 1918 in Detroit. Following their marriage, they made their home in Sandusky where he was an auto dealer. They later lived in Cass City, where he was employed as equipment supervisor by the E.B. Schwaderer Construction Company and then Tuscola County Road Commission until his retirement.

He servied with the Army Air Corps during World War I. He was a member of the Salem United Methodist church of Cass City and a life member of Custer Lodge No. 393, F and AM, Sandusky.

Benkelman is survived by his wife; two sons, Bill Benkelman of Bloomfield Hills and Robert Benkelman of Caro; six grandchildren, three great grandchildren; one brother, Benjamin Benkelman of Clearwater, Fla. (sic) and two sisters, Mrs. Eustis Ball of Clearwater, and Mrs. Lois Pease of Pompano Beach, Fla. One sister, Ruth, preceded him in death.

Funeral services were conducted Friday afternoon at Little's Funeral Home, Cass City, with Rev. Eldred Kelley of the Salem United Methodist church officiating.

Burial was in Elkland Cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

He was one the family members BonnieMargaret Jacobs personally interviewed when preparing her history of the Benkelman family.

Harold married Isabel Lizzie Fletcher on 14 Sep 1918 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Isabel (daughter of Archibald Fletcher and Isabelle Patterson) was born on 25 Oct 1895 in Bad Axe, Huron County, Michigan; died on 3 Nov 1993 in Caro, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Bob Benkelman wrote that his mother Isabel "was the daughter of Captain Archie Fletcher, a Great Lakes ship's captain & Isabelle Patterson, a beautiful , yet neurotic Canadian. Isabel's life was completely entwined with that of her identical twin, who died at the age of three."

Cass City Chronicle
Wednesday, November 10, 1993
Page Eight

Isabel Benkelman

Mrs. Isabel Benkelman, 98, of Cass City, died Nov. 3 at the Caro Community Hospital.

Isabel Fletcher was born Oct. 25, 1895 in Huron County. She married Harold L. Benkelman in 1918. He predeceased her in 1981.

She is survived by 2 sons, William and wife Barbara of Cass City, and Robert and wife Lorraine of Caro; 6 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place. Interment will be in the Elkland Cemetery, Cass City.

Expressions of rememberance may be made to the Tuscola County Medical Care Facility where Mrs. Benkelman had been a resident for several years.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

Notes:

Married:
Cass City Chronicle
Vol. 14, No. 22.
Friday, September 27, 1918

Fletcher-Benkelman

Miss Isabelle Fletcher, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Archie Fletcher of Bad Axe and Harold Benkelman, elder son of Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Benkelman, were united in marriage Saturday evening, Sept. 14, by Rev. Henderson, formerly a pastor of the bride. The ceremony took place at the Presbyterian manse on Grand River avenue in Detroit. Following the ceremony the bridal couple were entertained at dinner at the Hotel Statier by Mr. and Mrs. Russell Newbold, of Philadelphia, cousins of the bride.

Mr. and Mrs. Benkelman arrived in Cass City on Tuesday after visiting with relatives and friends in Detroit and other cities. \\

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore, Strong, Summer 2007)

Notes:

Bonnie-Margaret Jacobs writes that "Ben Benkelman accompanied his parents to Denver in 1880, where his oldest brother George Adam Benkelman married Mary Barbara Rommel. Ben did not return to Cass City with his parents, choosing to instead try his hand at the ranching business. He went to work for his uncle and brother as a cowboy. The Benkelman ranching operations were on the border between Nebraska and Kansas, near the Colorado state line.

The Benkelmans shipped many cattle out of Collinsville, Nebraska. On one drive to ship cattle in 1882, they were honored with the removal of the Collinsville sign and the installation of the Benkelman sign. It is still known as Benkelman, Nebraska today. Benkelman Township, in Cheyenne County, Kansas is also named for the family. Cheyenne County was surveyed in 1873-1874 following the signing of an Act by Governor Osborne creating a number on new counties. It was opened for enrollment in 1885. The census at March 1, 1885 gave the population at Cheyenne County at 204, with at least 15 of this number associated with the Benkelman Ranch. A year later, the population was 1256.

The Benkelman men were industrious and hard working. They were well respected in the community. The biggest challenge they faced were the extremes in weather.

In September, 1885, the T Wrench Ranch has 15,000 head of cattle. The winter of 1886 was a complete diaster for the Benkelmans. Only 125 head of the 15,000 survived. But the family continued to stay on their feet.

In 1893-1894, there were 18 months of absolutely no moisture. Feed was scare and had to be shipped in. All the inhabitants of Cheyenne County were in trouble, and people moved out of it in droves. After this, the ranch was turned over to Ben Benkelman. The rest of the family removed themselves from the ranching business."

Below are excerpts from letters written by Ben, while he was working as a ranch hand, to a cousin in Cass City, Michigan. The original letters are owned by the family of Ben's grandson, Bob Benkelman, and the transcriptions below were done by Bonnie-Margaret Jacobs.

8-xx-1880 Republican River, Wallace, Kansas. Branded 3600 head of cattle and will start tomorrow to brand 2500 more for Tony.

11-5-1880 George went to Denver about three weeks ago for the winter. I'm in the line camp, and it's living like a mole in the ground. Wakened this morning with snow on my bed. Write to me at the new post office in Wano.

3-17-1881 Haven't seen a girl in four months. There was a dance about 50 miles from here and about 20 of us cowboys went.

9-22-1881 Wano. Plenty of work here now. Just got back from shipping beef and then go again the first of October.

1-xx-1882 Wano. Buffalo is getting scarce, but there's still lots of antelope. You come in the fall when we ship beef and then you could go to Chicago with the cattle. More railroads coming through here now. About 30 miles from here is the station called Benkelman. It is the B&M railroad and will go straight from Denver to Chicago.

6-6-1883 Benkelman. Had a dance at Atwood, Kansas just before I cam here from the ranch. Some girls live 25 miles down river. The mail is 22 miles away, so I go see the girls then pick up the mail on my way back.

1-5-1884 Went to school one day and teacher said I could come back, but I'm too busy.

2-3-1884 We're going to a dance on the 22nd, and there will be some girls there. Don't worry because we're not as bad as the Idaho boys.

3-xx-1884 Soon I have to gather 100 head of cattle which are on the range all winter.

4-25-1884 There's a dance tonight--the last before we start work. Going South to the Arkansas River this summer for 2 or 3 months. George was here from Denver a few days ago. The cook is setting dinner.

8-xx-1884 Back from the Arkansas. Have been stopping along the trail where Texas cattle are coming up. I was there to keep them from our range. Aunty is down from Denver, and doing so much talking I can't write. I bought 50 head of yearlings for $15.25 each.

10--18-1884 Steers worth $30 to $40 a head. There's antelope here and plenty of turkeys but buffalo are scarce. Wages are just fair, $25 to $50 a month. We've got all beef steers shipped now.

12-xx-1884 Staying alone now with no work except taking care of a few horses and cooking. It's boring here, but I make up for it when I go for the mail--12 miles from here.

7-8-1884 Building a sod stable 84 x 15. Will have 5,000 head of cattle to brand, and it will take 5 days. On the 4th, I went to Wano and it was no fun so I went on down river 3 miles, but missed the young folks. It was 4 0'clock and I didn't want to miss the fun on the holiday so started for the city of Benkelman which is 20 more miles. Had a big dance, but had to ride 30 miles home the next day. Went to Denver 3 weeks ago. Got there about 8 p.m. and we spent the evening principally on Holiday Street. Guess what they do on Holiday street!

[Dick Fischbach informed me that: " Holladay Street (note correct spelling) was the site of early Denver's notorious red light district, replete with crooked gambling dens, cheap saloons, dance halls, cribs and expensive brothels. Anything cowpunchers wanted was available on Holladay Street.]

1-xx-1885 All alone this winter, but only have to cook, eat and sleep. I'm burning coal so there is no wood to chop. I have 2 horses to ride. It's 12 miles to the nearest girl.

4-27-1885 Benkelman. Atwood, Kansas is about 60 miles from here. The area is settling up fast now. Farmers coming every day and taking up land. The cattle will have to leave. The range is getting too small for those large herds. I take care of 120 head of horses. I duck hunt because there's lots of ducks now.

11-25-1885 Wano. Got back yesterday from Sturgis and had a good time there. So many girls! (Note: Ben married Minnie Jesse of Sturgis on the JC Ranch in 1892).

1-7-1886 Snow is a foot deep on the level. I'm cooking for the boys now. It's o.k. until warm weather. Wish I'd stayed in school.

2-9-1886 Two of the boys have started for the Arkansas River to look of cattle that have gone down there. 200 head of horses to feed here every day--about 2 tons a day. That's exercise, and gives me appetite, so I'm at 175 lbs now.

4-18-1886 Went down to Benkelman last week for 2 days and had a good time. We're moving cattle up west to Colorado. Kansas is getting too thick for cattle now. Some nice, fat gals moving in now.

1-7-1887 Wallace. Traveling and staying near Wallace. Riding around town to town watching the farmers to keep them from killing our cattle. I'm working for $40 a month and all expenses.


7-7-1887 We're out on the range with 15-20 men in camp every night. We have a good time singing and playing. Address your next letter to Wallace, Kansas.

9-12-1888 We're shipping cattle to Chicago. Soon we'll be done then head back to the ranch for the winter. Send your next letter to St. Francis.

11-xx-1888 Cousin George took the cattle to Chicago this year.

1-xx-1889 I'm living alone this winter. Burning coal. There's no wood to chop. Went to Wano to help decorate the Christmas tree.

3-xx-1889 Had a job offer of $35 per month. George and I are making a ditch to water our crops. Intend to keep some cattle and horses. Not as good a county for farming as Cass City. Butter is 8 cents, eggs 6 cents a dozen, potatoes $1.00. No girls! They all know me to well!

3-5-1889 I'm tired of cowpunching. We had a fun election for county seat. St. Francis won by a 290 majority.

7-xx-1889 We put up 30 tons of ice. Ice cream every Sunday! Cut 45 acres of alfalfa. I'm thinking of going further west. It's getting too crowded here.

12-xx-1890 Jacqua. I harvested potatoes and got $1.75 a bushel. Corn is 60 cents a bushel. I have 140 head of hogs and 130 head of cattle.

Around 1901, Ben relocated back to Cass City, Michigan, where he owned and operated a general store. In was also reported, in the February 18, 1913 issue of the Cass City Chronicle, that he and P.H. Muck had completed arrangements for the purchase of the stock of general merchandise and the leasing of a store building at Colwood from C.D. Andrews.

Ben closed his store in Cass City in January, 1924. Ben and Minnie summered in Florida, traveling there each year by train. They also built a cottage in Caseville on the lake.

He was active in the affairs of the community of Cass City, with numerous mentions of his activities in the "Local Happenings" column of the Cass City paper. A few of these are shown below:

Cass City Chronicle
December 4, 1908

Notice to Taxpayers

I will be at B. F. Benkelman's store Cass City, to collect the taxes of Elkland township on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

J. A. BENKELMAN, Treas.


Cass City Chronicle
January 19, 1917

B.F. Benkelman was re-elected as secretary to the Cass City Telephone Company.

Cass City Chronicle
Local Happenings
January 26, 1917

B.F. Benkelman, Edward Pinney and M.B. Auten are among the visitors at the auto show at Detroit.

Art Peck wrote, in error, that Ben was a Studebaker dealer until 1928 and that he also he worked for E.B. Schwaderer. It was actually Ben's eldest son, Harold, who was the Studebaker dealer and Schwaderer employee.

Cass City Chronicle
December 24, 1920

All the members of the B.F. Benkelman family will be home for Christmas. Miss Mae, a teacher at Sebewaing came Wednesday; Benj. a student at Ypsilanti, came Thursday; Miss Ruth a teacher at Berwyn, Ill., Friday; and Mr. and Mrs. Harold Benkelman of Sandusky Friday.

Ben Benkelman Senior's obituary appeared in the CASS CITY CHRONICLE on Friday, September 15, 1962:

Final Rites Held for B.F. Benkelman, Sr.

Benjamin F. Benkelman, Sr. 88, last of the family of Adam and Christine (sic) Benkelman, died Sunday in his home following a long period of failing health, just shortly before his 89th birthday. Funeral services were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Douglas Funeral Home. Rev. S.R. Wurtz of Salem Evangelical U.B. Church officiated and burial was in Elkland Cemetery.

Mr. Benkelman was born Sept. 24, 1863, in Bowmansville, N.Y. and came to Michigan at the age of four years with his parents. He was a rancher in Kansas from 1880 to 1901 and operated a general store her from 1901 to 1924.

He retired from business after selling his store. Among his hobbies were traveling with his wife and fishing.

He was a director of the Cass City State Bank for 30 years.

At St. Francis, Kansas, on Dec. 26, 1892, he married Miss Minnie JESSE of Sturgis, Mich., who survives. Also surviving are three daughters, Mrs. E.T. BALL (Ruth) of Pottersville, New Jersey; Mrs. W.J. CARPENTER (Mae) of Farwell, and Mrs. James PEASE (Lois) of La Grange, Ill.; two sons, Harold and Ben, of Cass City; four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

(Research):
Census ListingsL

1900 Census Cheyenne County, Kansas Jacqua Township

#112-#112 Benkelman, Ben Head W M Sep 1868 M 7 yr Born NY, parents born Germany, R&W, Speaks English, Owns Farm, no mortgage
Benkelman, Minnie Wife W F Sept 1875 4 Children all living born MI parents Germany, R&W, Speaks English
Benkelman, Ruth D W F July 1894 Kansas
Benkelman, May D W F May 1896 Kansas
Benkelman, Harold S W M Nov 1897 Kansas
Benkelman, Bengman (sic) S W M Nov 1899 Kansas

1910 Census, Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp, ED 113, Cass City Village
Enumerated 13 Apr 1910
SD 8, ED 113, Sheet No 5 B
139-139
Benkelman, Benjamin Hd M W 46 M1 17 NY Germany Germany Retail Merchant Groceries
Benkelman, Mary (sic) Wife F W 44 M1 17 5/5 Kansas Germany Germany
Benkelman, Ruth Dtr F W 15 Kansas NY Kansas
Benkelman, Mary Dtr F W 13 Kansas NY Kansas
Benkelman, Harold SOn M W 12 Kansas NY Kansas
Benkelman, Benjamin F Son M W 10 S Kansas NY Kansas
Benkelman, Lois J Dtr F W 5 Mich NY Kansas
Benkelman, Birtha Niece F W 22 Mich NY Mich Bookkeeper Implement Store

(Medical):Kidney failure, Senility

Benjamin married Wilhelmina "Minnie" Johanna Friederika Jesse on 26 Dec 1892 in St. Francis, Cheyenne County, Kansas. Wilhelmina (daughter of George W. Jesse and Maria Johanna Elisabeth Klevsaat) was born on 27 Sep 1865 in Sherman Township, St. Joseph County, Michigan; died on 18 Jun 1961 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

An undated clipping (circa 1955) from the BAY CITY TIMES about Minnie reads:

WOMAN, 90, PAINTS AS HOBBY

Cass City--Although she will celebrate her 90th birthday anniversary next month, Mrs. B.F. Benkelman, of Cass City (above) is deeply engrossed in a new hobby. She has taken up painting as a pastime and finds it a happy way to keep busy. Like the famed Grandma Moses, Mrs. Benkelman waited a long time to begin painting. She started when she was 87 years old. A busy woman all of her life, Mrs. Benkelman says she finds it hard to just sit still. She balked a little over attempting her first painting but her interest quickened with her first picture and now she is at her easel each morning. She rests in the afternoon. Her hobby resulted because of a present from her daughter, Mrs. J.E. Pease of LaGrange, Ill. Mrs. Pease presented her mother with a painting set which included a canvas blocked off in numbered areas and paints numbered for each section. She delayed getting started but once the project was underway she found it enjoyable. That was two years ago. And it was also her last numbered painting. Since then she has been composing her own pictures and has turned out some 25 canvases. She won't sell a painting but she will give them away. Most have been claimed by her family and friends. She has a few hanging at home. Her painting she says is entirely for her own enjoyment. Her easel is set up on a card table in her living room and she paints while sitting down. She says she gets her ideas from photographs and magazine pictures. Using the basic idea, she then develops her own picture. She recalls that as a youngster she tried painting but did not pursue it since her folks thought it a waste of time. She also recalls that she liked to draw pictures when she was a school girl. For her paintings she likes outdoor scenes best. Mrs. Benkelman will celebrate her 90th birthday anniversary on Sept. 27. She was born on a farm near Sturgis and lived in Kansas for 10 years before coming to Cass City in 1902. Her husband's parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Adam Benkelman were among the pioneer settlers of Cass City. Her husband, a retired general store operator, died three years ago. Her two sons and three daughters are all planning to be with her for her approaching birthday celebration. They are Mrs. E.T. Ball of Pottersville, N.J.; Mrs. May Carpenter of Farwell; Mrs. Pease; and H.L. Benkelman and B.F. Benkelman, both of Cass City.

Great granddaughter Melinda McLemore Strong has an 8 by 10 oil painting of a lakeside pasture in her home in San Antonio, Texas. (2003).

A similar article appeared in the Cass City Chronicle, as follows:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 7, 1954
Volume 49, Number 2
Page One

Judging by the amount of beautiful paintings, afghans and other works she turns out, Mrs. Ben Benkelman, Sr., 88, accomplished more than many persons half her age.

For example, in the last year, Mrs. Benkelman has knitted an intricately designed tablecloth, several small items, painted the picture shown above and another larger picture that is framed and hanges on the wall in her home.

In addition, she writes regularly each week to her three daughters, Mrs. Ruth Ball, New Jersey, Mrs. Lois Pease, Illinois and Mrs. Mae Carpenter, Michigan.

She writes and signs all her own checks and keeps continually busy on her varied projects.

Minnie's obituary, also in the Cass City Chronicle, dated Thursday, June 22, 1961:

Minnie Benkelman Dies at 95

Cass City lost one of its eldest citizens June 18 with the death of Mrs. Minnie Benkelman, 95, in Stevens Nursing Home. Mrs. Benkelman had been ill for some time. She was a patient in the nursing home for several weeks.

She was born Wilhelmina JESSE in Sturgis, Sept. 24, 1865 and married Benjamin F. BENKELMAN in St. Francis, Kansas in 1892. They came to Cass City in 1901, lived at 1454 Maple Street and remained here until their deaths.

Mr. Benkelman ran a general store until his retirement in 1924. He died in 1952.

Surviving are three daughters and two sons: Mrs. E.T. BALL (Ruth) of Pottersville, N.J.; Mrs. Wilmot CARPENTER (Mae) of Farwell; Mrs. J.E. PEASE (Lois) of LaGrange, Ill,; Harold and Ben of Cass City. Other survivors are four grandchildren and nine-great grandchildren and one sister, Mrs. Augusta BUCHOLTZ of Sturgis.

Funeral services were held Wed. at 2 p.m. in the Douglas Funeral Home. Rev. S.R. Wurtz of Salem E.U.B. church, of which Mrs. Benkelman was a long time member, officiated and burial was in Elkland cemetery.

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle, May 20, 1921 issue.

The funeral of Capt. Archibald Fletcher was held Tuesday afternoon at his home in Grant Township and the remains interred in the McTaggart Cemetery. Members of Verona Lodge, F. & A. M. Conducted the Masonic burial service. Mr. Fletcher was born in Scotland and for many years was a captain on the great lakes. He was widely known in the Thumb District. His death occurred at Bad Axe hospital Saturday after several weeks' illness. Besides his wife, he leaves six children, Mrs. H. L. Benkelman (Isabel) of Sandusky, Helen Fletcher and Andrew D. Fletcher of Detroit and Archie Fletcher, John Fletcher, and Mary Fletcher of Grant Township.

(Courtesy of Lorraine Smith Benkelman)

(Research):
Census Information:

Listed on census as follows:
1910 Grant Township, Huron county, MI
Archibald Fletcher 38
Isabell Fletcher 42
John R Fletcher 16
Lizzie Bell Fletcher 14
Helen J Fletcher 11
Archibald A Fletcher 8
Mary C Fletcher 5
Isabell Patterson 73

1920 Census, Grant Township, Huron County, MI
Archibald Fletcher 69
Isabell Fletcher 54
John Fletcher 25
Archie A Fletcher 18
Mary C Fletcher 14
Hazel B Fletcher 4 3/12

(Courtesy of Lorraine Smith Benkelman)

Archibald married Isabelle Patterson on 27 Sep 1889 in Canada. Isabelle (daughter of Rodger Patterson and Isabelle Leitch) was born about Dec 1868 in Canada; died about 1934; was buried in McTaggart Cemetery, Sheridan Township, Huron County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

BonnieMargaret, in the process of writing her manuscript, also read about Schw?bisch folkways. She reported that when each of Leonhard's sons were born, they would have been wrapped by his mother and the midwives in attendance in a shirt belonging to their father and placed on the floor, where the father would then pick him up as an act of recognition and claiming. The infant would be christened as soon as possible before any witch could place a spell on him or her. The godparents would be summoned and the christening would take place, and only at that time would the child's name be revealed. They kept the area the baby slept in lit, so no changeling could be put in his or her place. The baby was not taken from his home for six weeks, after which time the family would begin to visit friends and neighbors. The child was then presented a "schwatzei" or chatter egg, from each of the neighbors, who would lightly tap the child on the mouth with the egg, to pass along the gift of speech. (pp. 70, 71) She also wrote that "according to parish record, he was actually born on the Schmitthof, nearby the Schneiderhof. Probably sometimes it was necessary to go to the midwife....The jurisdiction at the time was the Oberamt Welzheim, and that appears on the death certificate of both Adam and [sister] Louisa Benkelman...Waldhausen Parish is now in the jurisdication of Waldhausen-Lorch and that is where the records are to be found [post 1938]." (p. 127)

On the German church registry, he is shown as a citizen of Waldhausen, a master barrel maker, and belonging to the Schneiderhof near Lorch, renting in B?rtlingen. They also show he emigrated to America in June 1851. None of his children were listed because they are all born in the United States. Waldhausen Parish was nearby Lorch, within the Oberamt Welzheim. BonnieMargaret writes (p. 73) that Adam was accepted to a trades training program in Waldhausen, despite his father not being citizen of that parish or a member of that guild. He completed his training and was considered a master cooper.

BonnieMargaret later noted that Adam would have been about 14 when he began is training as a cooper. "..he would have gone into one of the training houses where the young apprentices lived together while they learned the rudiments of their craft. After several years of apprenticeship, Adam would have begin the 'wandering' that was a traditional part of the training of the journeymen artisans. During those years he woudl travel from village to village, living in the guild housing and working with other journeymen who were proving their skills and providing evidence of their reliability and good character. Adam's admittance into the trades is an example of the flexibility of the W?rttemberg laws governing these things. Strict compliance with the law would have meant that Adam could not have entered this training, since one of the requirements was legitimate ancestry. His father had proved himself a responsible person [however] ...and there is some evidence that Adam's mother came from a substantial and respected family, which would have helped." (p. 127).

Johann Adam Benkelmann and Catherine Benkelmann were referenced as applying to emigrate to North America in 1851 by Schenk, Trudy and Froelke, Ruth THE W?rttemberg EMIGRATION INDEX Salt Lake City: Ancestry, Vol. 5. 1988. 240 p. Source Code 8057.8, p 14. Also listed with them were Johann Georg Benkelmann (1850) and Johannes Benkelman (1851).

The following was excerpted from the "Memoirs of John A. Benkelman" (published posthumously) by Hilda Jane Stickley Benkelman in 1966. John A. Benkelman was the third child of Johann Adam and Catherine (Schiefle) Benkelman. Hilda Stickley Benkelman was John Benkelman's daughter in law, and compiled the book based on the stories he told over and over again to his children.

Adam Benkelman and his wife, Catherine Scheifle Benkelman left Hamburg, Germany, shortly after their marriage in 1850 (sic). Upon arrival in America, they traveled by train to Lancaster, Erie County, New York, to the home of John Scheifle, brother of Catherine. They spent one year with the Scheifles, and it was there that their first son, George, was born.

Their next move was to Bowmansville, Erie County, New York, where the remaining children were born.

Adam Benkelman was a cooper and learned his trade in Germany, where he was kept busy every winter making sap buckets, barrels, kegs and churns which were bought and used by many of his neighbors.

Adam's sisters, Mary and Louise were married to John and Jacob Striffler. They lived in New York State, near Adam and his family. The Striffler brothers bought land in Tuscola County, Michigan, without seeing it first, for $2.00 an acre. In 1860, they moved their families to Watrousville. From there, they walked back and forth to their land and build two log homes. Adam came to visit in 1864, and bought himself 80 acres of land. It was $3.00 an acre, and covered with virgin pine. The land was one mile east and one mile north of the town of Cass City, Michigan. In 1964, a centennial marker was placed at the farm, since it had been owned by the same family for 100 years.

Adam and his family stayed in New York State through the end of the Civil War. Adam worked at a barrel factory as a cooper for Mr. Looney, for whom the town was named. It was a thriving town, near the New York Central railroad, and a passenger and freight depot was not far from the Benkelman home.

When Lincoln was assasinated on April 14, 1865, there was a great deal of argument over his death among the townspeople. Some thought that he should not have been at the theatre, others worried about the future of the country. The train carrying his body to Springfield, Ilinois went through the town. The train and engine were clothed in black. It stopped in Looneville to take on water and supplies at the depot. In a short time, a large crowd gathered to pay respects to this great man. They stood silently, with hats in hand. They stood spellbound until the train was well out of sight, taking President Lincoln to his last resting place.

Adam moved his family to Michigan shortly thereafter, sometime in May or June of 1865. They sent the furniture ahead by freight. When the family reached Pine Run (Vassar), Michigan, they hired a driver to take them the rest of the way. At Centerville (Caro), they were all tired and hungry, so the driver stopped at an old inn run by the a Mr. Velmer, who came to help them off the wagon. George, the oldest child, jumped off, then Louisa, John, Sam, Will, Mary and finally the baby, Ben. The innkeeper laughed and said "For God's sake, how many more are up there?"

By the time the Civil War was over, most of the aggressive, war-like Indians that had resided in around Tuscola County had migrated westward beyond the Mississippi River. There were however scattered camps of peaceful Indians still living in Tuscola County. The early settlers had no reason to fear these Indians. The Indian children often came out to the road to play with the white children, especially those of the Seeger family whose Father had been mistakenly shot for a bear at Elk Lake. An old Indian called Riley often stopped at the Benkelman house at noon time, sometimes eating, and sometimes stretching out on the bare floor for the night. In the morning, he would be gone and often did not return for many months.

Adam and his family lived in an old building on the land of Louisa and Jacob Striffler until Adam was able to build a log home on his land, which he completed around 1871. Sam and John later built the house that is still standing on the farm today. Adam used oxen both to haul the lumber and to help him with farming. He bought his first team of horses in 1873.

The first garden that the family had was grown around the stumps and logs, but they did have a lot of vegetables that fall. The first fruit trees were planted from seeds of apples bought from a man who peddled the apples in the fall with a horse and wagon. The first wheat was planted in a small patch of ground, cradled by hand the next year and threshed on the floor by hand. Later, Adam had six acres of wheat to cut and he hired a good cradler to cut it. The other members of the family followed with twine and tied the wheat in bundles. This wheat was threshed by a machine that was operated with horses. The twine had to be cut and handled seperately by men at the side of the machine. The grain was winnowed and ground to flour by hand. Eventually, they could take the wheat to a water-powered mill at Wahjamega on the Cass River. This took two days to accomplish.

The first spring after they moved to Michigan, George, the eldest son, brought home an orphaned fawn. His mother was not pleased about having a a wild deer in the house, which he was as the weather was still quite chilly, however she consented after much teasing on the part of her children. They named the fawn Dickie, and he stayed in the yard all that next summer, making no attempt to leave. When winter came, Adam made his children a sled and harness. They taught Dickie to take directions like a trained reindeer, and neighborhood children gathered for miles around to have a sled ride.

The fawn was a wild animal however. Once it crashed through a window of their home, when startled by Catherine. Dickies fate was sealed after Adam had bought a bushel of apples from a man in Watrousville, and then saved the seeds for an orchard. (He planted them and they had grown to) nice little seedling trees which he kept close track of, his heart set on an apple orchard.... but in the fall, Dickie ate all the seedlings down to the roots. Adam was so provoked by the deer that he shot him, and used him for meat as it was hunting time. All the children cried bitterly and refused to eat. John related that "then poor Father was sorry that he had destroyed our pet deer."

The first Evangelical Church meeting held in Cass City was in Adam's log house, where the Benkelman farm is now located. A few of the early families of German descent wanted a Church to worship in, similar to their accustomed form. Rev. Henny, the Evangelical minister in Sebewaing at the time was invited to meet with the group to preach and help organize a Church in Cass City. He rode from Sebewaing on horseback.

Bonnie Petee abstracted the following regarding the Evangelical Association from "The History of Tuscola County, Biographical Sketches and Illustrations," H. R. Page Co., Chicago, 1883. "A class of this church which is commonly known as the German Methodist, was organized in the town of Elkland about the year 1866, by the Rev. Stephen Henne in connection with the Sebewaing mission. The class numbered about fifteen members. It has had regular services from that time to the present, and a regular succession of pastors. Services being held in the school-house, one mile north and one-half mile east of Cass City. In the latter part of 1882, a formal organization was effected at Cass City, and steps taken for the construction of a house of worship, which is now in course of construction. The earnest zeal of the members and their individual labors and contributions of material have reduced the estimated cost of the building to about $1,500. The pastor of the church at the present time is the Rev. B. F. Wade, who resides on his farm in the town of Elkland. The membership is about fifty. There is a preaching every second Sunday; prayer-meeting and Sunday-school every Sabbath. The trustees of the church are, John Benkelman, Fred Krapf, Oscar Sencner (Lenzner?), Levi Muntz and Adam Benkelman."

The Benkelman family continued to stay heavily involved in the affairs of the church, as this January 24, 1896 news article notes:

At the Evangelical church, the following Sunday School officers have been elected for the ensuing year: Supt., Mrs. Lena SCHWEGLER; ass't supt., Mrs. Mary BENKELMAN; sec., J. MAIER; treas., Adam BENKELMAN; librarian, Miss Lillie Striffler; ass't librarian, Miss Maud MAIER; organist, Miss Martha STRIFFLER; ass't organist, Oscar LENZNER.

The following death notices appeared in the local Cass City Paper after Adam's death:

From the Cass City Enterprise
Published in Cass City, Mich., Dec. 30, 1897

Adam Benkelman, one of our oldest residents and most highly respected, passed away this morning (Thursday), at the age of seventy-two years. The immediate cause of his decease is said to have been diabetes. The funeral services will be held Sunday, at his late residence on Houghton Street at ten o'clock and at the Evangelical Church at 10:30. Obituary next week.

From the Cass City Enterprise
Published in Cass City, Mich., Jan. 6, 1898

Another Pioneer Gone

Adam Benkelman was born in Oberamt Welzheim, Wurtemberg, Germany on the thirteenth of February 1825. In the year 1851 he was married to Catherine Scheufele, who accompanied him to America shortly after. His first home in America was in the State of New York, where he resided fourteen years. In 1865 he came to this place where he lived on the farm one mile east and three-quarters of a mile north of Cass City until 1881, then moved to the village where he has since lived.

As a citizen, Mr. Benkelman was respected by all. His pioneer days here were filled with the hardships of pioneer life, but not disheartened by his surroundings, he toiled on until his timbered land was cleared. All his dealing and business transactions were strictly honest. He practiced honesty and inculcated the same principle in the minds of his children.

Mr. Benkelman was a member of the Lutheran Church until 1867, when he was converted and joined the Evangelical Association, under the pastorate of Rev. S. Heune, the first Evangelical minister that preached in this neighborhood. There being no church or school house in which to hold meetings Mr. Benkelman opened his house as a place of public worship. After his conversion he lived a devoted christian life. He was a regular attendant at all meetings of the church, his seat never being vacant unless sickness would not allow him to be present. Not only could he be found at the meeting, but his children were early taught to go to church and would accompany him to the place of worship. His love for the Lord's house was great. He supported the church not only by his prayers, but he also gave very liberally. He was a pillar in the church and remained a true and faithful member to the end. For thirty-one years he had been a subscriber to the "Christliche Botschafter.**"

His health has been poorly for several months, but not until recently was he confined to his bed. The last few weeks was a time of great suffering, but he endured it all with a childlike spirit. All that human skill and wisdom could do was done, but of no avail. He patiently resigned to the will of God and did not murmur at his lot until it pleased Him who is all wise and the great Author of Life and Death to put an end to his pain by removing his spirit to realms above where suffering cannot come.

His deeply sorrowing widow, one daughter, five sons and twenty grandchildren, besides three brothers and three sisters and a large circle of relatives and friends are left to mourn his departure. On the 29?sup?th?/sup? of Dec., 1897, he fell asleep in the arms of Jesus at the ripe age of 72 years, 10 months and sixteen days.

The funeral occurred on Sunday, Jan. 2?sup?nd?/sup?, from the Evangelical Church. Rev. W Bergey, of Elkton, preached in the German language from Phil. 1. 21, and the writer made a few remarks in the English based on 1 Sam. Xx. 18. His remains were laid in their last resting place there to await the resurrection morn.

In the same paper, the following notice was also published:

Leonard Benkelman, from Wisconsin, brother of the late Adam Benkelman, is in town and will remain for some time.

Detail of Death Certificate: County Tuscola, Township Elkland, Village Cass City ADAM BENKELMAN DOD 30 Dec 1897 Place of Death Cass City, Male, White, Married 26 years, Age 72 yrs, 10 mos, 17 days, Parent of 7 children, 6 living, Born Germany, Occupation Farmer, Father Leonard Benkelman, Mother Dora Stahley, (Both born in Germany), proposed date of burial Jan 2, 1897 (sic), Elkland cemetery, Undertaker A.A. McKenzie, Cass City MI Attending Physician H.P. Edwards, Attended the deceased from June 10, 1895 to Dec 30, 1897, last seen alive on Dec 30, 1897

**Der Christliche Botschafter was the first religious paper in the German language in America. Founded in 1836 it became a stimulus to the rapid growth of the Evangelical Association and a valuable means of recording the progressive movements of the denomination. It was a significant agency in building Christian and denominational bonds.

(Research):Census Information:

The family was listed as follows on the 1860 Federal Censu
s for Erie County, New York:
Bowmansville Post Office Town of Lancaster Enumeration date 13 June 1860
#36-36 Adam Benkerman 35 Cooper $500/$150 Germany
Catherine 37 Germany
George 9 New York
Louisa 7 New York
John 4 New York
Samuel 3 New York
Mary 2 New York

The family was listed as follows on the 1870 Federal Census for Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Township,
#54-54 Benkelmann, Adam 45 Farmer 2010 360 Ger/Wirtenberg
", Catherine 47 Keeping House Ger/Wirtenberg
", George 19 At home NY
", Louisa 17 At home NY
", John 14 At school NY
", Samuel 13 At school NY
", Mary 11 At school NY
", William 9 NY
", Benjamin 7 NY

1880 Federal Census
Census Place:Elkland, Tuscola, Michigan Source:FHL Film 1254607
National Archives Film T9-0607 Page 95B
RelationSexMarrRaceAgeBirthplace
Adam BENKELMANSelfMMW55WERTENBURG Occ:CooperFa: WERTENBURGMo: WERTENBURG
Cathrine BENKELMANWifeFMW59WERTENBURG Occ:Keeping HouseFa: WERTENBURGMo: WERTENBURG

Johann married Anna Catharina Schaufele on 24 Feb 1851 in B?rtlingen, G?ppingen, Donaukreis, W?rttemberg, Germany. Anna (daughter of Johannes Schaufele and Anna Maria Reick) was born on 23 Aug 1823 in B?rtlingen, G?ppingen, Donaukreis, W?rttemberg, Germany; died on 23 Dec 1906 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

As noted in the "Memoirs of John A. Benkelman" by Hilda Jane Stickley Benkelman, when Catherine and Adam first immigrated to the United States, they lived with her brother Johann Scheifle in Erie County New York. I was, however, unable to locate a Johann/John Scheifle on either the 1850 or 1860 census. I did find a Gottlieb Scheifly on both however.

Hilda Jane further wrote that "Catherine was a favorite in the community. She was jolly and fat, a very good cook of German style dishes, and a mother to everyone in the neighborhood. A good midwife, she was called in by the neighbors in case of sickness or for confinements as there were few doctors around at that time. She helped bring more than 100 babies into the world. "

Catherine made a home for her nephew, Leonard Buerhly, when he first came to Cass City. Leonard was the son of her sister Marie.

Cass City Chronicle
November 1, 1901
Local Mention, Page Eight

Grandma Benkelman has rented her property on East Houghton Street and has disposed of all her household goods and will henceforth make her home with Mrs. Lena Schwegler.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, December 28, 1906

Died Suddenly

Mrs. Catherine Benkelman, aged eighty-three years, died suddenly at her home on East Main street Sunday evening, December 23. While eating with Mrs. M. M. Schwegler she suddenly became unconscious from which condition she did not recover. She has been troubled with heart disease for many years.

Catherine Scheifele was born August 23, 1823 in Boertlingen, Germany. In the year 1837 she was confirmed. She was united in marriage to Adam Benkelman in Germany in 1851 and they came to America the same year, living in Bowmansville, N.Y., until 1865. That year they came to Cass City, residing on a farm northeast of town. By hard work and frugal living Mr. and Mrs. Benkelman acquired a goodly portion of property and in 1884 they retired from active life and move to town to spend their remaining days. Mr. Benkelman died nine year ago on the 27?sup?th?/sup? of December and nearly ever since that time Mrs. Benkelman had resided with Mrs. M.M. Schwegler on east Main street, the ladies enjoying each other's companionship to the fullest extent. Mr. and Mrs. Benkelman were the parents of seven children, one daughter dying at the age of fifteen. The remaining children, five sons and one daughter, are: George A. of St. Francis, Kansas, William F. of Owosso, Benjamin F., Samuel G. and John A. Benkelman and Mrs. Louisa Schwegler of this place. She also leaves twenty-five grandchildren and one great grandchild.

All her children were present at the funeral services which took place Thursday forenoon at the Evangelical church of which the deceased was an honored and beloved member, and the burial was made in Elkland cemetery. The pallbearers were five sons and a grandson, W.J. Schwegler. The funeral service was largely attended.

Mrs. Benkelman was a lady of beautiful character, loving and kind in disposition and will be missed by many who found in her a good neighbor and friend.

Detail of Death Certificate: Tuscola County, Village of Cass City, CATHERINE BENKELMAN, Female, White, DOB 23 Aug 1823, 83 yrs, 4 mos, 0 days, Married at age 28 years, parent of 7 children, 6 living, Born Germany, Father Schifley, Germany, Mother Not Known, Occupation Housewife, Informant J.A. Benkelman, DOD 23 Dec 1906, Attending Physician W.W. Wickwars, Cass City, Dates December 1904 to Dec 23, 1906 last seen alive on Dec 23 at 6 pm, Burial Elkland Dec 27, 1906, Undertaker H Polk Cass City

A copy can be seen here:

http://seekingmichigan.org/

Indexed as Catheren Benkelman

(Research):

Census Records, her brother??

1850 US Census
New York Erie County Buffalo Ward 4 23 Aug 1850 ---
1808 Gottlieb Scheifly 25 M Shoemaker Germany
Maria Scheifly 24 F Germany
Georg Scheifly 2 M New York

1860 US Census
New York Erie County Bowmansville
725-725 Godlip Sheifley 35 M Shoemaker $500 Germany
Mary Sheifley 34 F Baden
George Shufley 12 M NY
John " 10 M NY
Godlip " 7 M NY
William " 5 M NY
Frederick " 2 M NY
Charles Fink 19 M Shoemaker Germany
Christina Shufly 17 F NY


Gottlieb would have been born ca. 1825. Kathy Bonnell's transcription of Baptismal records do not show a son named Gottlieb born at that time. Catherine did have a brother Johannes born ca. 1828. Could his middle name be Gottlieb? Could he be the child named Gottlob born ca 1830? The baptismal records, however, show that son died ca. 1843.

Notes:

Married:
Catharina and Adam were married in B?rtlingen.

On May 16, 2002, Ingolf Vogel noted that "The Kingdom of W?rttemberg was made up of four Kreises - the Neckarkreis, the Schwarzwaldkreis, the Jagstkreis and the Donaukreis. These Kreises were much larger than today's Kreises. Each of them was divided into so-called Ober?mter which are more similar in size to today's Kreises. The Oberamt for B?rtlingen was Kirchheim.. Incidently the Oberamt Kirchheim was the only Oberamt of the Donaukreis west of the Schw?bische Alb (a mountain range). B?rtlingen (today Kreis G?ppingen) has only 745 people listed in it's telephone directory, so it probably doesn't have more than 2000-3000 inhabitants.

Adam and Catharina were married in February, 1851, and in June, 1851 they were formally released from the Kingdom of W?rttemberg and would be free to emigrate.

Notes:

Also GESSE, GESS

George and his sister Anna Jesse came to America on the ship "Johannes" from Hamburg arriving in New York on November 27, 1857. He was 25 and she 17. Records show their destination to be Wisconsin, although they stayed in upstate New York for at least two years. Anna did move to Wisconsin, with George instead settling in Michigan. "Germans to America" shows they were coming from W?rttemberg. A copy of the actual handwritten manifest shows Mecklenburg. Both appear to be in error. The Hamburg Passenger List, FHL #470839, shows that the "Johannes" left Hamburg on 15 October 1857. On board were George Jesse, age 25, and Anna, age 17. They were shown as coming from Strelitz, Preussen. It appears this village was in the Kreis Kolmar, Posen. In 2003, this village is known as Strzelce, Powiet Chodziez, Poland.

Two years after their arrival in New York, Anna and George were both married, in an apparent double ceremony, by the Reverend Clute, pastor of a church in Byron, New York.

At the time of the 1860 New York Federal Census, it appears that George Gesse was living in the home of John and Phebe Taylor of Elba, Genesee County, New York. The Taylors real estate was valued at $26,000 and there were numerous servants and laborers living in their home. The date of this census was June 20, 1860. He was listed as George Gefse, age 26, Laborer, Germany. The Klesert family, their eldest daughter Marie already married to George, lived two households away.

On George's citizenship certificate, it is stated that he arrived in Michigan in January 1860. He must have arrived somewhat later than this as he was still in New York at the time of the census in June.

George became a citizen of the United States at age 36. On his citzenship certificate, he was listed as George Gesse, and he solemnly swore to his intention to become a Citizen of the United States, and to renounce for ever all allegience and fidelity to each and every foreign Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty whatsoever, and particularly the King William of Prussia of whom he had been a subject. This was subscribed and sworn on the 16th day of March, 1868 in the Circuit Court of St. Joseph County, Michigan.

At the time of the 1870 Michigan federal census, he was living nearby his in-laws, the Kleserts. He was enumerated on 8 July 1870 in Sherman Township, Post Office Sturgis.

On the birth certificates of his two youngest children, he is listed as George Gess, and his wife as Mary Gess. The death certificate for his son lists the last name as Gessee.

In a plat of Sherman Township ca 1880 supplied by Dorothy Williams, land belonging to G. Jess adjoins a larger parcel belonging to J. Klevsert.

The above biography was compiled by combining the notes of Dot Williams, Jo Peck, Fern Bengelsdorf, and Melinda Strong.

(Research):
Census Listings:

1870 Census
Michigan, St. Joseph County, Sherman Township, P.O. Sturgis
Enumerated 8 July 1870
#185-185
Gesse, George 38 Farmer $1,600 340 Prussia
Gesse, Mary 32 Keeping House Macklenburg
Gesse, Andrew 8 Michigan
Gesse, Anna 6 Michigan
Gesse, Minnie 4 Michigan
Gesse, Julia 2 Michigan
Gesse, Sophia 6/12 Michigan

On the birth certificates of his two youngest children, he is listed as George Gess, and his wife as Mary Gess. The death certificate for his son lists the last name as Gessee.

1880 Census
Census Place:Sherman, St. Joseph, Michigan
Source:FHL Film 1254603 National Archives Film T9-0603 Page 45 RelationSexMarrRaceAgeBirthplace
George JESSE Self M M W 48 PRUS Occ:Farmer Fa: PRUS Mo: PRUS
Mary JESSE Wife F M W 42 MECK Occ:Keeping House Fa: MECK Mo: MECK
Andrew JESSE Son M S W 18 MI Occ:At Home Fa: PRUS Mo: MECK
Anna JESSE Dau F S W 17 MI Fa: PRUS Mo: MECK
Minnie JESSE Dau F S W 14 MI Fa: PRUS Mo: MECK
Julia JESSE Dau F S W 12 MI Fa: PRUS Mo: MECK
Augusty JESSE Dau F S W 10 MI Fa: PRUS Mo: MECK

1900 Census
Michigan, St. Joseph County, Sherman Township
#119-120
Jesse, George Head W M Feb 1832 68 Widowed Germany Immigrated 1858 In US 42 years Naturalized Farmer R&W, Speaks English owns farm, free of mortgage
Oman, Julia Dtr W F Dec 1863 32 Wd 1 child, still living born MI parents born Germany
Oman, George Gson W M Oct 1896 Mich

George married Maria Johanna Elisabeth Klevsaat on 24 Nov 1859 in Byron, Genesee County, New York. Maria (daughter of Friedrich Christoph Ernst Klevsaat and Sophia Christinia Luise Prasht) was born before 6 Jan 1838 in Rosenow, Demmin, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany; was christened on 6 Jan 1838 in Kastorf Parish, Rosenow, Demmin, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany; died on 18 Aug 1890 in Sherman Township, St. Joseph County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Rodger married Isabelle Leitch on 27 Sep 1889 in Canada. Isabelle was born about 1834; died on 22 Mar 1913 in Grant, Huron County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Deaths
Grant Twp./ 1897-1920
Huron County, Michigan

http://genealogytrails.com/mich/huron/deathgrant.html

Shows her as Isabella Patterson ca 1834 D. 22 Mar 1913 Grant, Huron County, daughter of Niel H. Leitch Death Certificate 5