Johann Schembs - The Second Ohio Schambs

Johann Schembs - The Second Ohio Schambs

CLICK to trace the ancestors of Johann Schembs

Dick Thomas (1942), a descendant of the Second Ohio Schambs family, has provided many of the photographs and other documents presented in this Chapter. For this we are most grateful.

Johann Schembs (*1799)

Three years after Mathias Schembs (1801) emigrated with his wife and family and settled in Mansfield OH, Mathias's older brother Johann Schembs I (1799) and his wife Maria Magdalena Kronauer (1800-before 1880) decided to follow them. Johann, Maria, and their three living children, George (1830), Barbara (1834), and Margaretha (1837) emigrated in 1852 from Herrnsheim.

Heimathschein (Country Certificate) of Johann Schembs I, granting him permission to emigrate from Herrnsheim (Grandduchy of Hessen) to Amerika, and the conditional right to return.

Translation of the main text:
"The undersigned Mayor certifies herewith that the one alongside described Joh. Schembs I and wife and two daughters who will leave for North America for the purpose of colonizing and to work, that the same lives in the community of Herrnsheim and possesses native rights at all times that he is entitled to return here if he has not in the meantime acquired native rights in any other country. The possessor of this Country Certificate is expressly cautioned that, if without the required certificate of the appertaining Grand Duke Hessian authority, that if he marries in a foreign country to escape his military commitments and if there is any obstacle to alter his citizenship, if he marries a foreigner in a foreign country, that to him his wife and children admission to the Grandduchdom of Hessen will be refused.
Herrnsheim, on the 11th of August 1852, the Grandduchy of Hessen's mayor there. Brandt" with the official seal.

The left margin of the Certificate includes the physical description of Johann Schembs I. The interesting parts are: Height 6'7"; Hair blonde; Beard unbearded; Complexion healthy; Stature strong; Special marks, tattoo"

Our information about Johann and his wife Maria in Amerika is limited. They are enumerated in the 1860 U.S. Census, living in Mifflin Township, Ohio. Mifflin Township is just to the east of Mansfield. John "Shames" is listed as 64 years old (should be 61), born in Germany. Maria ("Mary") is correctly listed as 61. Living with John and Mary is a 3 year old boy, Markley. It is not clear who he is. Finally in 2015 we located Johann in the 1870 Census. He and "Barbara" are living in Bloominggrove Township. Bloominggrove Township is due north of Mansfield and just to the east of Shiloh OH. It is also to the north of Mifflin Township. It is not clear who Barbara is. The 1870 Census did not have a column for relationship. But Barbara is given the same family name as John - "Schames". Barbara is also from Hessen Darmstadt. She certainly must be the daughter of John and Mary, although the birth year given in the Census is wrong. Apparently Mary had passed away prior to 1870. Next in 2020 a marriage Affadavit for a John Schöembs and a Lidia Bellet was discovered. They were married 15 July 1876. And in 1880 Johann ("John Shambs") appears again in the Census, age 81 (which is correct) from Hessen Darmstadt. If you zoom in on the record the information is very clear. John is now enumerated with his wife Lydia, age 51, thirty years his junior. Their home is obviously very close to that of his daughter Margaret Schembs Sunkel (1837-1906) and her husband Christopher, which is on the prior Census page as seen in the attached summary of the three Census years. There is one other bit of evidence of the life of Johann in Amerika. Ken Garn talked about a legal dispute between Johann and Christopher Sunkel (*1813), husband of his daughter Margaretha (*1837).[8]

Johann and Magdalena Schembs had a total of eight children. However, five of the eight died in Herrnsheim as infants or young children, prior to the emigration of the family. The three who grew to adulthood emigrated either with or about the same time as their parents:

	Age at Death
Bernhard Schembs (1822-1827)	5 years
Carl Schembs (1823-1828)	5 years
Anna Maria Schembs (1829-1829)	at birth
Margaretha Schembs (1829-1829)	at birth
George Schembs/Schambs (1830-1908)	78 years	emigrated
Barbara Schembs (1834)		emigrated
Margaretha Schembs (1837-1906)	69 years	emigrated
Anna Maria Schembs (1839-1840)	8 months

Descendants of Johann Schembs

Children: (8)

8.1.....Bernhard Schembs (*1822 Herrnsheim, +1827 Herrnsheim)

8.2.....Carl Schembs (*1823 Herrnsheim, +1828 Herrnsheim)

8.3.....Anna Maria Schembs (*1829 Herrnsheim, +1829 Herrnsheim)

8.4.....Margaretha Schembs (*1829 Herrnsheim, +1829 Herrnsheim)

8.5.....George Schembs/Schambs (*24.06.1830 Herrnsheim, +7.05.1908 Ganges OH)

George was the fifth child of Johann and Magdalena, but the first to live to be an adult. He was born 12 months after his twin sisters had died at childbirth. Presumably George emigrated together with his parents and two sisters in 1852. However, the Heimathschein of Johann Schembs I does not mention George Schembs. Therefore it is possible that George emigrated somewhat earlier than Johann, although still in 1852. Or perhaps they emigrated together and George, being 22 years old at the time, had his separate permission to emigrate. Upon arrival in Amerika, George also adopted the spelling "Schambs" from his uncle Mathias. Today all the Schambs in the world descend either from Mathias Schembs/Schambs (1801) or George Schembs/Schambs (1830). Most of them continue to live in Ohio.


George Schambs (*1830)	Margaret Zachman (*1837)

According to oral history, George did extensive reading a Protestant bible while on the ship from Europe to Amerika. When he arrived in Ohio he abandoned Catholicism and became a Protestant, although it is not clear how strong his ties were to the new church.[1] In a "Who's Who of Blooming Grove Township" it is stated that George Schambs left Germany in 1852, coming directly to Richland County, Ohio."

George Schambs married Margaret Zachman (*12.09.1837, +11.09.1901 Ganges OH) in 1855, three years after arriving in his new country. Per the 1850 U.S. Census of Weller Twp, near Mansfield OH, Margaret was the daughter of Jacob and Margaret Zachman. In about 1870 Margaret joined the Reformed Church of Ganges. However the family apparently practiced Christian Science and Presbyterian at various times.[2] George and Margaret lived a long and prosperous life together. Per his obituary, the funeral service was held in the home of one of his daughters, suggesting that he was not active in a church at the time.

Home of George (1830) and Margaret Schambs in Ganges

(including the recent addition on the right side)

(Click for the house before the renovation)

According to the recorded history of Richland County, OH, George was a breeder and raised short-horn cattle. He also raised race horses. They had a large farm in Ganges, but a barn fire in 1894 put him out of business. Family history tells that the fire broke out one night and spread so quickly they were not able to save many of the animals. The fire was reported in the Cleveland Plain Dealer and the New York Times, among other papers. George had purchased 140 acres in Cass Township in 1883. Apparently he acquired another 200 acres, as well. The original 140 acres was legally "lost" in 1894, but came back into the ownership of Margaret just before her death.[1]

There is an old map showing the location of the George Schambs farm one mile north of the town of Ganges, as well as a newer map. And a picture of the farm buildings.

In the late 1890's George moved into retirement. He sold most of their land, retaining only the land around their home. An auction was held to sell much of the livestock and equipment. Then following the death of his wife Margaret, the remainder of the livestock and equipment were sold in a 1902 auction (headline, listing).

The Blooming Grove Township's tribute to honored citizens is quoted below. It is taken from "History of Richland County, Ohio 1807-1880".

"Shambs, George, was born in Germany on the 24th of June 1830; he remained there until the year 1852, when he came to this country, locating in this county, where he has since resided; Mr. Shambs has always paid his attention to farming and dealing in stock, and now makes a specialty of breeding and handling short-horn cattle, together with all kinds of stock. In the year 1855, on the 19th of December he was married to Miss Margaret Zackman; they have had a family of nine children, eight of whom are living—Margaret, John F., Mary Jane, George B. McClellan, Carrie B., Eugene, Phillip and Josephine. Ella B. departed this life on the 8th day of December 1878, aged 18 years 6 months and 15 days; she was a young lady whom every one loved and respected. Mr. Shambs has by good management and strict attention to business made for himself and family a good home, and is considered one of the foremost citizens of the township in any direction that tends to elevate or enlighten the rising generation."

The following is the newspaper obituary for George Schambs:"

Old Resident Dies
George Schambs dies Thursday after long Illness

George Schambs died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. E. Bray, north of town, Thursday evening, May 7, 1908, after a long illness. George Schambs was born in Hessen Darmstadt, Germany, June 24, 1830, and died in Shiloh, O, May 7, 1908, aged 77 years, 10 months and 14 days. He came to America at the age of 22 years and came at once to Mansfield, where he was united in marriage December 10, 1855, to Margaret Zackman, who preceded him to the better world. Shortly after his marriage Mr, Schambs moved to Franklin Township and later to Cass Township where he has since resided.

Mr. Schambs will long be remembered by both old and young for his jovial good nature and sunny disposition. He always had a pleasant word and a smile for everybody. During the last few weeks of his illness he suffered intensely, but through it all he retained his cheerfulness, with never a murmur of complaint. To Mr. And Mrs. Schambs were born nine children, seven of whom survive their father. They are: Mrs. James Warrell, of Mansfield; Mrs. A.A. McGaw, Mrs. J. E. Bray, and Geo. B. Schambs. Of this place; Mrs. F.C. Deisher and P,J. Schambs, of Cleveland, and Eugene Schambs. Besides the children and other relatives, Mr. Schambs had a large circle of friends in this community who were deeply grieved to learn of his death. He was always kind and indulgent in his family, an excellent neighbor and a true friend. The funeral services were held from the home of Mr. And Mrs. J.E. Bray last Saturday, conducted by Rev. F. B. Helbert. Interment was made in the Ganges cemetery.


Gravestone of George Schambs (1830) Shiloh Mt. Hope Cemetery, behind the Ganges Community Church	Ganges Community Church – Evangelical Reformed

George was a pipe smoker and reportedly died of cancer of the mouth and throat.[2]

From a outsider's perspective (I am a seventh cousin), it is interesting that the descendants of Mathias Schambs (1801) and George Schambs (1830) were apparently not close. In fact, today many pronounce their surname differently. George was the nephew of Mathias. He settled ten miles away, on a farm in Ganges, Ohio. Mathias lived in the city of Mansfield. Today many of the descendants do now know the other family existed. Perhaps it was due to George's abandonment of Catholicism. Mathias was a devout Catholic, and an early member of St. Peters Catholic Church in Mansfield. Note in the Chapter on Mathias ("The First Ohio Schambs"), that a rift was caused in Mathias' family when Mathias P. (1838), his son, married Mary Barkdoll, a Lutheran, in 1862. Intermarriage between Catholics and non-Catholics was serious business until very recent times.

Picture of the George and Margaret Schambs Family
Back Row from left: Jenny, John, Margaret, George
Middle Row: Philip, George (1830), Margaret (1837), Eugene
Front Row: Carrie, Josephine

The descendants of George and Margaret were a very close family. Several of the branches of their descendants still have regular family reunions and have a lot of affection for one another.

Children: (9)

9.1.....Margaret Schambs (*1856 Ganges OH, +between 1911-1920)

Margaret Schambs married James J. Warrell (*~1855 OH, +>1910) in 1875. They had six children per the 1900 Census. Per the 1910 Census, Margaret had given birth to 10 children, six of whom were still living. In 1910 James was enumerated as being a laborer at odd jobs. In the 1920 Census there is a James Warrell, widower, living in Springfield, Richland County, OH. He is the right age, but it is not clear that it is this James Warrell.

Children: (6)

6.1.....Lucille Warrell (*1879 OH)

Lucille was probably called "Lottie." In the 1900 C she was enumerated as working as a cigar maker.

6.2.....Thomas Warrell (*24.06.1881 OH, +26.03.1965 Los Angeles CA)

Thomas married Carrie A. Harbaugh (*12.2.1888 OH). The marriage took place in 1906.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Charles Warrell (*1908 OH, +22.08.1960 Clark Cty OH)

6.3.....Martha Warrell (*Oct 1883 OH)

Martha was a cigar roller in 1900 at the age of 17 years.

6.4.....James Warrell (*Oct 1885 OH)

James Warrell was single and living at home in 1910 at the age of 25 years.

6.5.....Margaret Warrell (*Feb 1888 OH)

6.6.....Chester Warrell (*Jun 1897 OH)

In the 1970s Ruth Deisher Thomas (1916-1998) wrote that Margaret and Jim were buried in Mansfield, and listed two children – Chester and Martha. There is no reference to the other four children.[1]

9.2.....John F. Schambs (*1859 Ganges OH, +26.03.1903 Cleveland OH)

John F. Schambs (1859)

John married Lillian V. Snyder (*Dec 1870, +22.10.1954) on 20 Oct 1889 in Richland County. He was a medical doctor, practicing in Cleveland. A prescription sheet from John gives his office address at the time as 1062 Pearl Street, corner of Wade.

The various records for John F. and his children often use the spelling "Shambs". Examples are registrations for the WWI and WWII drafts, marriage licenses, etc. And including signatures of the family members. This is very interesting, and confusing.

Following the death of John, Lillian was remarried on 19 January 1912 to George Leonard. John is buried at the Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland. Lillian passed away in 1954.

Children: (4)

4.1.....daughter (*12.01.1890 Cleveland, +12.01.1890 Cleveland)

We have a birth record for the birth of a daughter. Yet no name is given and the child does not appear in the 1900 Census (The 1890 Census was destroyed in a fire in Washington DC.). Most likely the child died at birth. There is also an entry in the Record of Births (the eighth from the bottom). It is an interesting Record in that the names of the babies are not given, just the names of the parents. Lillian is entered as Valilla.

4.2.....Lloyd William Schambs (*14.08.1891 Tiffin, OH, +30.11.1957)

Lloyd married Hazel M. Wherry (*26.03.1892 Geneva OH, + ), the daughter of William and Ida Conkey Wherry. The wedding took place in Cuyahoga County OH on 15 July 1916. Hazel had been previously married to a Theodore C. Dungan. That marriage ended in divorce in 1914. In June 1913 Hazel signed an application for a passport documenting that she was a U.S. citizen. The papers named her as Hazel M. Wherry. This too is strange, as she presumably was married and her married name was Dungan.

Lloyd was a salesman working for Lubric Oil Company in Cleveland at the time of their marriage in July 1916.

In June 1917 Lloyd registered for the World War I draft, two months after Congress had declared war on Germany. His draft papers describe him as tall and slender with brown eyes and dark hair. Lloyd and Hazel had apparently moved to Gary, Indiana where Lloyd was an "agent" for the American Express Company.

In 1920 Lloyd and Hazel were living in Pittsburgh PA. The address was N. Euclid Avenue, probably a rooming house. Hazel's mother Ida was living with them. Lloyd was a "foreman" for an "Express Company", probably American Express still. Hazel was a "cashier" for the Express Company. Then ten years later Lloyd and Hazel were living at 5900 Spruce Street in Philadelphia. Again Ida is living with them but she is now shown as a widow.

In 1942 Lloyd registered for the World War II draft. Again he used the "Shambs" spelling for the famiy name, although it does look like he may have started to sign it "Sch...". The WWII paperwork is more descriptive. He was 5/6" tall and weighed 151 pounds. In 1942 Lloyd and presumably Hazel were living at 753 N. 64th Street in Philadelphia PA. He listed his employer as "Coryden Apartments".

Lloyd and Hazel had no children.

4.3.....Celia M. Schambs (*31.12.1893 Mansfield OH, +after 1954)

Celia married Kenehan.

4.4.....Raymond E. Schambs (*9.12.1897, +18.10.1959 Portage OH)

We have a very good picture of Raymond at about one year of age.

Raymond registered for the Draft when World War I commenced. Following the War on 14 May 1921 in Cuyahoga he married Olga Fisher (*1902), the daughter of Antony and Catherine Kohler Fisher. Olga was a secretary and Ray a mechanic. The marriage ended in divorce in 1924.

Thirteen years later in 1937 Ray married Florence V. Sladky (*1906, +4.11.1979), the daughter of James and Mollie Peck Sladky. They are buried in the Highland Park Cemetery in Highland Park. In 1954 they were living in Aurora OH. Raymond passed away in 1959.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Sally Anne Schambs

Sally Schambs married James D. Harlan.

9.3.....Ella Belle Schambs (*1860 Ganges OH, +8.12.1878 Ganges OH)

Ella Belle died as a young lady. According to oral history, she died from injuries sustained from being thrown from a horse.[1]

9.4.....MaryJane Schambs (*Jun 1862 Ganges OH, +12 Feb 1911 Shiloh OH)

MaryJane was known in the family by the nicknames Jenny and Mollie.[1] She married John "Edward" Bray (*Dec 1863 OH, +27 Apr 1937 Shiloh, OH) on New Years Eve, 1884. In 1900 John and Mollie were living with John's mother and farming. In all, they had eight children, six of whom survived. By 1920 John is a widower. Three of his daughters (Lillie, Margaret and Lucille) are living with him, as is his mother Margaret, a widow. By 1930 John "Edward" had given up farming, moving into Shiloh and living in a home on Mechanic Street which he owned. He was in his mid-60s. None of his children are enumerated with him in the 1930 Census.

John Edward Bray (1863)

The Bray family were early English emigrants to Amerika, settling in Hunterton County, New Jersey in the 1700s. The family homestead in Holmdel is now the site of the PNC Arts Center for central New Jersey. Elijah Bray, grandfather of John Edward (*1863), left New Jersey after a dispute over the distribution of the family estate and moved to Ohio. John Edward was born in Ohio. (Extensive Information on the Bray family is provided by Jennifer Nichols). The parents of John Edward Bray (*1863), Samual and Margaret Bray, were farmers in Cass Township, Richland County, OH. Cass Twp is to the north of Mansfield.

Children: (6)

6.1.....Lillie Manning Bray (*Apr 1887 Richland Cty OH, +03.1953 Cabool MO)

Lillie in 1920 was a dressmaker, single, and living at home, age 32. Soon thereafter she married Elmer H. Gullion (*12.01.1872 Richland Cty OH). By 1937 the couple lived in Cabool, Missouri.

6.2.....Albert Manning Bray (*12.03.1890 Shiloh OH, +16.12.1969 Cleveland OH)

Albert married Gertrude C. Bergseiker (*1893 OH, +19780 Cleveland OH) in about 1915. They were living in Cleveland in 1937 and at 3299 W. 100th Street at the time of his death.

Kinder: (2)

2.1.....LaVerne Bray (*1919 OH)

Based upon the obituary of Albert, Laverne married a man by the name of Mileski.

2.2.....Edward H. Bray (*1925)

In 1970 Edward was living in Miami FL.

6.3.....Martha H. Bray (*Jan 1894 Richland Cty OH, +before 1970)

Martha and Lawrence Hammond Berrier (*1889 Oceola OH, +28.05.1952 Mansfield OH) of Mansfield OH were married. They lived in Mansfield.

Kinder: (6)

6.1.....Edith P. Berrier (*1914 Crawford Cty OH)

6.2.....Albert L. Berrier (*1915 Crawford Cty OH)

6.3.....Ivan E. Berrier (*1916 Crawford Cty OH)

6.4.....Evelyn June Berrier (*1918 Crawford Cty OH)

6.5.....Helen L. Berrier (*1920 Crawford Cty OH)

6.6.....Robert E. Berrier (*1923)

6.4.....Charles H. Bray (*Apr 1898, +08.12.1970 Erie Cty OH)

Charles married Florence Alberta Mitchell (*20.04.1893 OH, +19.08.1983 Richland Cty OH) in about 1920 in Richland Cty OH.

Kinder: (1)

1.1.....Dennis Eugene Bray

In 1970 Dennis was living in Shiloh OH.


Lillie Bray (*1887) click to enlarge	Lillie (1887 and Maggie (1902) Bray click to enlarge	Maggie Bray (*1902) click to enlarge

6.5.....Margaret R. Bray (*~1902, +probably Canada)

Margaret married George W. Staton in about 1925. The couple lived in Canada, probably in Dunham, Quebec.

6.6.....Lucille Bray (*abt 1903 , +abt 1939)

Lucille married Sylvester F. Porter (*1904 OH).[1] In 1937 they were living in Wilmore, Kentucky.

Kinder: (2)

2.1.....Dwight D. Porter (*1928 Marion ? OH)

2.2.....Dorothy E. Porter (*1929 Marion ? OH)

9.5.....George B. "McClellan" Schambs (*20.05.1865 Ganges OH, +17.07.1942 Greenwich OH)

George married Ethel Berdell Douglas (*2.01.1869 Shiloh OH, +16.02.1954 Greenwich OH) in December 1889. Ethel was the daughter of William H. and Anna Beelman Douglass. It is a little unclear how George had the name McClellan, and even if it was a nickname or a given middle name. Some documentation gives his full name as George B. McClellen Schambs.[1]

1889 Wedding Picture of George B. "McClellan" (1864), far right, and his wife Ethel B. Douglas
second from right, sitting. On the left sitting is Alex McGaw and Carrie Schambs McGaw, standing.

McClellan worked on the farm with his father as a young man. Then, after the barn fire in Ganges, he and Ethel moved to Mansfield and he worked for the Black Farm. When George would leave the house to go to work, he would always depart with the same words "I have to haul off and go to work."[3] His youngest son Jim (1909) brought George a small puppy from Columbus in his coat pocket. "Skippy" grew to be a large dog, and survived George.

He was a true horseman, training the horses for the Farm and very conscientious about his work. They raced their horses in Lexington, just southwest of Mansfield. Lexington is still a center of racing, although today stock car racing gets more of the action. McClellan died in Greenwich, where they lived after his retirement.

Ethel is described as very quiet, well bred, and busy around the home. She was always wore a dress with an apron. She was an excellent cook, and an active member in Eastern Star. They had moved to a nice home at the Black Farm after McClellan had been at the Farm for a few years. Their family (twenty-some strong) would go to the Farm for holiday dinner celebrations, and the table was set perfectly. Uncle Jim (James Donald Schambs, 1909) would mash the potatoes.

When the daughters were teenagers, Ethel would take the three to Cleveland shopping and bring along their little brother James, six years younger than his youngest sister. They would park James in the playrooms of the department stores as they shopped.[4]

We have the article from the Mansfield newspaper reporting on the 50th Anniversary party for Ethel and George M.

"Paw Paw" and "Nanny," as they were affectionately known by their grandchildren, were loving people. In addition to the horses at the Black Farm, they also raised peacocks.

1926 Photo of the George Schambs (1864) Family
Back row fr. Left: Russell Harrison, Ina Brumback, Etta Brumback, Ed Brumback;
Middle row: George Schambs (1864), Anna Bealman Douglas, Ethel Douglas Schambs, Lena Schambs Gilger, Cecile Brumback, Donald James Schambs;
Front row: Anna Schambs Harrison, Eleanor Harrison, Joan Gilger, Dick Gilger, Doug Brumback, John Gilger

Children: (4)

4.1.....Lena Glady Schambs (*6.10.1890 Ganges OH, +27.10.1985 Ashland OH)

We have an interesting image of Lena as a one year old. Lena married George Allen Gilger (5.12.1877 Shiloh OH, +26.12.1939 Greenwich OH) in 1911. George was the son of John and Marjorie Latimer Gilger. Lena and George were wonderful aunts and uncles to their nieces and nephews, who looked forward to their visits to the Gilgers. [3] In the backyard there was a brick fishpond, which the kids found fascinating. In the front room of the house was a bench built into the corner. The kids could hide and play. Lena and George would bring out toys for them to play with. The kids felt very welcome.[3]

Children: (5)

5.1.....Joan Gilger (*18.12.1918 Lakewood OH, +2005)

Joan Gilger married John George. They had one son.

Kinder: (1)

1.1.....son George

5.2.....Richard Douglas Gilger (*26.07.1920 Greenwich OH, +2006)

Dick fought in World War II. He married Marily Hawkins.

Kinder: (2)

2.1.....Paul Gilger

2.2.....Joanne Gilger

5.3.....John Roger Gilger (*03.11.1921 Greenwich OH)

John was also in World War II. John married Eugenia Marr Reynolds (*1922 Logan OH).

Kinder: (2)

2.1.....Larry Roger Gilger (*1944 Lodi OH)

2.2.....Rebecca Sue Gilger (*1947 Shelby OH)

5.4.....Gladys Pauline Gilger (*06.04.1925 Ganges OH, +26.04.1925 Greenwich OH)

5.5.....Dale Huntly Gilger (*23.10.1928 Greenwich OH, +5.09.2001 Cleveland OH)

Dale and his wife were living at 408 Courtland Street in Wellington, Lorain County, OH at the time of his death. He passed away at the Cleveland Clinic.

4.2.....Helen Pauline Schambs (*1901, +1987)

Helen Schambs married Lloyd L. Reynolds (1899-1968) in 1924. During the Revolutionary War the British burned out some villages and towns in New England. The victims of (some of) these atrocities were called the "Sufferers." Following the War, the American government gave the Sufferers grants of land west of the Alleghenies for them to farm and start anew. The Reynolds family had come from Connecticut to Ohio in this way. Lloyd was a descendant of these original pioneers. His mother died when he was 3 years old. He went to school through the 8th grade, and then quit to work on the farm. In his early 20s, Lloyd got a job working in a bank in Greenwich, met and married Helen Schambs. Several years later the bank went under with many others in the Depression.[5] Through the rest of his life Lloyd worked for other businesses in Greenwich in bookkeeping and administrative jobs. He was active in local affairs, and was Clerk of the Township Trustees. George B. (1864) and Ethel lived a block away from Helen and Lloyd in Greenwich.

Lloyd enjoyed gardening, and collecting stamps and coins. They would can and freeze the fruits and vegetables from the garden. In the yard was a big cherry tree, which he would have to put netting over to keep the birds from eating all the cherries every summer as the cherries ripened.[4] Lloyd also enjoyed researching the genealogy of the Reynolds family.

Helen had a tulip garden in the backyard. She also loved the funny pages in the paper, and would read them to her nieces and nephews. There was always a big hug and a kiss when the nieces and nephews would walk in the door.[3] She was a talker, "as loud as Nanny was quiet,"[4] She would tell stories and was a baseball fan. She was an ardent Indians fan. They also enjoyed playing cards. Helen and Lloyd were conservative and strong family people, as were most of those who had lived through the Depression. They were "died in the wool Republicans."[5] Helen and Lloyd lived in Greenwich their entire lives.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Donald Eugene Reynolds (*31.12.1928 Greenwich OH , +25.08.2001 Marion OH)

Don went to Marion OH to business school following his graduation from high school. There he met and married Virginia Searles (1929 - 2002 in Marion) in 1950. They lived in Marion. Don had studied bookkeeping and accounting, which led to positions with Lockwood Lumber Company and later for a S&L in Marion. Ginny worked in administrative and secretarial positions, first at the local high school, then the county vocational school, and finally at the Marion General Hospital. They enjoyed traveling, and in their later years took many bus trips with groups of their peers. These trips were to various places in the Midwest and East, and they would do this 2-3 times yearly. Don was a model train enthusiast and enjoyed growing roses.

Brother Bob recalls when he was about ten, Don and Ginny, married and in their 20s and Bob were driving to Greenwich to see their parents. They stopped in Sulfur Springs, to get a drink of water. It was Bob's first encounter with sulfur water, not something that he any longer does.[5]

Children: (1)

1.1.....Sharon Kay Reynolds (*1956 Marion OH)

Sharon married Clarence Frederick Williams ( ) in Marion OH. They had two children.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Carly Beth Williams (*1978 Marion OH)

In 1998 Carly Beth married Dustin Postell ( ). They have a son.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Tyler Wade Postell (*2001 Marion OH)

2.2.....Casey Frederick Williams (*1981 Marion OH)

Casey and Sara Marie King ( ) were married in October, 2004.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Cameron James Frederick Williams (*2005 Marion OH)

2.2.....Robert Dale Reynolds (*1939 Norwalk OH)

Bob enjoys travel and is a sports enthusiast. Like every good Ohioan, Bob is a fan of the Indians, Browns, Cavs, and Buckeyes. Bob went to Kent State for one year, but was unable to continue for financial reasons. He went to work for R.R. Donnelly in Willard, first in the printing department and later supervising in the binding department. Bob married Nellie Laughlin ( ), who also liked to travel. They had two sons.

Children: (5)

5.1.....David John Reynolds (*1964 Willard OH)

David was in the Special Forces in the U.S. Marines. He is married.

5.2.....James Allen Reynolds (*1968 Willard OH)

James Allen is married. He and his wife are missionary teachers in Laos.

Nellie and Bob later divorced. Bob also enjoyed researching his genealogy, particularly on the Reynolds side, something that he had acquired from is father. He and his second wife Kelly Felver (1966 Greenwich OH) were married in Greenwich in 1989. In 1992 Bob took a buyout from Donnelly after 32 years, as the company was down-sizing. Kelly and her brother are working for her father's cabinet making business, and plan to take it over. Bob owns a business leasing waffle equipment to restaurants, which takes him regularly throughout the state. Nellie and Bob have three children.

5.3.....Curtis Robert Reynolds (*1990 Willard OH)

5.4.....Caitlin Elizabeth Reynolds (*1991 Willard OH)

5.5.....Kelci Anne Reynolds (*1994 Willard OH)

4.3.....Anna Douglas Schambs (*1903, +1933)

Anna and Russell Harrison (1901-1973) were married in 1922. Russell worked for Ohio Brass as a timekeeper. Just before the start of the Depression, Russell went into farming. They had a farm about 20 miles north of Mansfield on the Huron County line – on County Line Road. In 1932 Anna died suddenly from a burst appendix. Their four daughters ranged in age from 3 to 9 years old. Soon thereafter the farm burned, leading Russell to auction off what was left. He and his daughters lived at the King property on County Line Road for about two years, before moving to Mansfield. There he went to work for Westinghouse Electric, where he worked from 1936 until his retirement as an inspector in 1966. He raised their daughters by himself, with help from his mother-in-law and a sitter Elsie Hazen.

Anna is described by her daughter LaDonna as a wonderful wife and mother. She made bread and butter, and boiled their clothes white on the wood stove in borax. At one time Russell bought 1000 young chicks and put them in the upper floor of the new horse barn. Anna had to care for both the four girls as well as the chickens.

In his spare time Russell loved to fish, play baseball, play cards, and garden. Regardless of where he was, he would find a little space to plant something, a potato patch where he would plant vegetables. They canned vegetables and berries. Russell had a Model A and a Model T Ford. Between the time of Anna's death and the house fire, he broke his arm cranking the Model T -- a trinity of tragedies.

In 1944 Russell married again, this time to Elma Lane, with whom he had three more children. His daughters were out of the house by this time, but they were frequent visitors to Russells new family and home. They were all close.

Children: (4)

4.1.....Eleanor Mae Harrison (*1923, +1991)

Eleanor married Robert Franklin Wilkins ( ). They had one child, a daughter.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Connie Rae Wilkins (*1945 Mansfield OH)

Connie married Robert Joseph Pond (1938 Hillsboro OH).

Children: (1)

1.1.....David Lee Pond (*1966 Newark OH)

David and his wife Terresa Gregory ( ) have one child.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Brittani Nicole Pond (*1989 Goldsboro NC)

Eleanor and Bob Wilkins were divorced. Eleanor later married Floyd Kirkpatrick (*1913 OH, +2003 Akron OH). In this marriage there was also one child, a daughter:

2.2.....Cynthia Ann Kirkpatrick (*1953)

Cynthia married Robert Lee Cushard ( ).

Children: (4)

4.1.....Cindi Lou Cushard (*1972 Mansfield OH)

Cindi and Thomas Mariano Marcin (1968 Akron OH) are married.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Cory Michael Marcin (*1991 Akron OH)

Following her divorce from Tom Marcin, Cindi has had two children with her partner James Francis Dugan (1972 NC).

3.2.....Craig Tyler Dugan (*1997 Akron OH)

3.3.....Reanna Taylor Dugan (*2000 Akron OH)

4.2.....Robert Floyd Cushard (*1974 Mansfield OH)

Robert Cushard has two sons, the first with Amiee Williams ( ) and the second with Kelly Wilkens ( ).

Children: (2)

2.1.....Robert Floyd Cushard (*1994 Akron OH)

2.2.....Ryan Patrick Cushard (*2003 CT)

4.3.....Jesse Lee Cushard (*1975 Mansfield OH)

Jesse married the mother of their three children, Aimie Lynn Hatcher (*Akron OH).

Children: (3)

3.1.....Kaylyn Mae Cushard (*1994 Akron OH)

3.2.....Shelbie Ann Cushard (*1997 Akron OH)

3.3.....Jessie Lee Cushard (*1999 FL)

4.4.....Greg Russel Cushard (*1977 Akron OH, +1977 Akron OH)

Greg died of sudden infant death syndrome (sids).

Cynthia later divorced Bob Cushard. In about 1980 in Akron she married Jerry Bates ( ).

4.2.....LaDonna Harrison (*1925 Huron Cty OH)

LaDonna married William R. Vrabel (1925-1992 Mansfield OH) in 1949. Bill's family lived in his early years on the corner of Harker and Daisy Streets, later moving to 3rd Street with his father and step-mother. Bill quit Mansfield High just after his 18th birthday, four months short of graduation, to join the Army Air Force and serve in World War II. He was soon deployed to England, where he worked maintaining brake systems on planes. With the end of the European war he was brought back to the States, and was preparing to go to the South Pacific. But the end of the War came before he was shipped out.

After the war he returned to Mansfield, where he worked for Mansfield Tire and Rubber, making and testing tires. "He made each tire like it was for himself."[3] In his spare time he drank beer alone, as LaDonna did not share his taste. She was busy homemaking, collecting recipes, cooking and growing her garden of flowers and vegetables. They regularly attended their church.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Peggy Jo Vrabel (*1950 Mansfield OH)

Peggy has pursued a career in the education of multiple-handicapped children. She has an undergraduate degree from Ashland University, and a Masters from Ohio State. She married Stephen Kent Harris (1944 Lodi OH) in Mansfield. Steve was born in the family home, a Lodi landmark until it was demolished in the name of progress to make room for another bank. They now live in Georgia. Peggy is great at planning and organizing activities, including family events. Steve's talents range from designing and building homes to computer design.

3.2.....Daniel D. Vrabel (*1952 Mansfield OH)

Dan graduated from Lincoln Technical Institute in Indianapolis. He studied to be an auto mechanic. Daniel married Leslie Townsend (1965 Butler OH). They have one child.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Elaine Kay Vrabel (*1985 Columbus OH)

3.3.....William David Vrabel (*1956 Mansfield OH)

Bill worked for a security guard for a company in Mansfield. One night one of the female guards reported in on the radio. The Captain was critical, saying she was not holding in the Talk button correctly. Bill later called the lady, Michele Stairs (1962 in Shelby OH), back on the telephone to tell her he thought she sounded just great. They met a week later on Michele's 24th birthday, were engaged six months later, and were married before she turned 25. Bill and Michele honeymooned in a tent at a KOA resort in Cape Hatteras NC. They lived in Shelby for about a year before moving to Mansfield.

Bill was seriously injured in a car accident years ago, losing an eye and his sense of smell. He still has his great sense of humor and the ability to entertain. Bill and Michele both work.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Eric Stephen Vrabel (*1990 Shelby OH)

3.2.....Elizabeth Vrabel (*1993 Galion OH)

3.3.....Michael Vrabel (*1995 Galion OH)

4.3.....Genevieve Marie Harrison (*1927 Greenwich OH )

Genevieve graduated from Madison High in Mansfield. While in school and afterwards she worked at Sutters, a soda fountain and sandwich shop. One day an Italian immigrant traveling salesman from New York City came into the restaurant. Genevieve married him within the month! Genevieve and Frank Malagamba (1923 Vernazza, Italy) recently celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary!

Frank served in the U.S. Army during the Second World War. Because he was an Italian immigrant (1929) he was given state-side duty, at Camp Beale in Marysville, California. There he was an interpreter with the Italian POWs being held at the Camp. Upon his discharge in 1945 from the service, Frank was awarded his U.S. citizenship. Frank returned to New York where his father had a restaurant. But not wanting to go to work for his father, he decided to sell magazines. He was good at it and soon found himself supervising others and traveling throughout many states. It was this work that brought him to Mansfield, and that fateful lunch in February of 1946. After their marriage Frank continued selling and traveling, selling cookware and other products. During this time Genevieve would travel with him and sell also.

In 1952 their daughter Sandy contracted polio. They decided to move to Akron, where they felt the hospitals were better able to serve their needs. At this time Genevieve stopped working to spend time with their daughter. Ultimately they each went to work in the insurance business: Genevieve with the Travelers where she worked in group claims and retired after 25 years; and Frank in life insurance sales. Genevieve and Frank have enjoyed traveling for pleasure. Years ago they would travel with Eleanor and Floyd who had a travel trailer. One of their memorable trips was to Nova Scotia. They have also gone to Italy twice as a couple, while Frank has made additional trips by himself. Frank today continues his pastimes of bowling, playing poker, and walking.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Sandra Lee Malagamba (*1946 Hartford CT)

Sandra married William Keith Martin (1945-1989 Akron OH). While raising their own family of three, Sandy became involved in working in the field of cerebral palsy, and caring for severely disabled people. For thirty years she has been having live-in patients in the Martin's home. Bill worked for a specialty tire manufacturing company. He died of a massive heart attack at age 44.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Deanna Marie Martin (*1964 Akron OH)

Deanna has had three relationships, with whom she has had three children and now one grandchild. She first married James Adams (1964 Akron OH) in 1983.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Melissa Renee Adams (*1983 Akron OH)

Melissa and Daniel Riley have a new son.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Tyler Ray Riley (*2003 Akron OH)

3.2.....Nicole Adams (*1987 Akron OH)

Following her divorce from Jim Adams, Deanna had a daughter with James Richmond. (Note: there is a problem here. There is undoubtedly only one daughter Nicole)

3.3.....Nicole Michelle Richmond (*1987 Akron OH)

In 2001 Deanna married Dennis Debates. Deanna works with the elderly and disabled, going to three different group homes where she takes care of her specific clients.

3.2.....Brian Keith Martin (*1965 Akron OH)

Brian works in the construction field, doing leasehold improvements and interior carpentry. He has a daughter with Michele ().

Children: (1)

1.1.....Haylee Martin (*1998 Akron OH)

3.3.....Danielle Michelle Martin (*1972 Akron OH)

Danielle married Richard Friend (1968-2002) in Akron in 2000. Richard died two years later. Like her sister Deanna, Daniele too works with the elderly in a group home.

2.2.....Ricardo Joseph Malagamba (*1957 Cleveland OH)

Ricardo works in the shipping department of a manufacturer of wheels and auto parts in Akron. The company is a supplier to General Motors. In 1985 Rick married Martha Jane Hughes (1958 West Virginia). They have one daughter.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Christina Marie Malagamba (*1999 Akron OH)

4.4.....Christine B. Harrison (*1929 Greenwich OH)

Christine was three years old when her mother died. While only two years younger than her sister Genevieve, having four young daughters was a handful for their father Russell. Christine went to live with her paternal grandmother for two years, then to Chicago to live with her great aunt and uncle on the Harrison side of the family. She grew up in Chicago, returning to Minerva OH with her great aunt with the passing of her great uncle. Following high school Christine went to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, for a year to continue her voice training, then worked for Eastman Kodak. She met Edwin Haines (1926 Minerva OH) and they were married in 1947. Ed and Christine moved back to Ohio, where Ed went to college at Baldwin Wallace, then moved to New Jersey for his plans to get his masters degree at CCNY. Christine enjoyed swimming, walking, sewing, and they loved riding horses which they would do occasionally in Sussex County. Following her divorce from Ed, Christine married Anthony Martini (1912 Passaic NJ) in 1968. Tony and Christine loved to travel, going to places like the Bahamas, Antigua, Las Vegas and Florida, where they had a second home. Christine had no children.

In 1995 Christine returned to Ohio, and has enjoyed becoming reacquainted with her family. From the time she was five, she had lived away from her immediate family. While she would come home each summer for two weeks, most of her life she saw little of her sisters. One of her fond memories was when she was living in a boarding house in Buffalo, while going to the Eastman School, one morning she awakened to the surprise of having sister LaDonna at the door. Another time sister Gen, her husband Frank, and daughter Sandy came to visit.[6]

4.4.....James Donald Schambs (*10.07.1909 Ganges OH, +1970)

Jim Don was a victim of two grandmothers. One wanted him to be called "Jim," the other "Don." As a result he went through life with two first names, depending upon who was talking. He married Elizabeth Louise Scheurer (*21.05.1910, +1995) on Christmas Eve 1935 in Franklin County. Elizabeth was the daughter of Andrew and Katherine Warner Scheurer.

The story of their meeting is fun.[4] Nanny, Jim Don's mother, was suffering from a bout of phlebitis, ailment of the feet and legs which is somewhat disabling. She needed help in the house, and decided to run an ad in Mansfield. She received a response from a young woman who sounded interesting, but had no transportation. Nanny dispatched her son James Donald to pick her up and bring her to the house. The young lady, Elizabeth Scheurer, however, was concerned about this and asked a girl friend if she could come with her on the interview trip. Perhaps this was the last time she sought accompaniment when she was with Don.

While Nanny had been the cause of their meeting, she later did not approve of the match and did not want them to marry.[4] As a result Don and Elizabeth eloped. He was working for Honeywell in Columbus at the time. She took a bus or train to Columbus on Christmas Eve, 1935, and were married with no family present. They immediately told their siblings, but waited for some time before they told either set of parents. Don left his job in Columbus after about a year and returned to Mansfield where he was a plumber and pipefitter, working for Hollis Pace & Sons, Plumbing.

While Elizabeth later became a very good cook, it did not come naturally to her. When they were first married she was cooking liver for their dinner. Don told her to boil it, then fry it. She followed directions perfectly. The story goes that they then fed it to their dog, who also would not eat it.[4]

LaDonna remembers every Christmas as a young girl. Uncle Jim and Aunt Elizabeth would buy all the young nieces baby girl dolls. They all loved it – both generations![3]

Don loved to garden, fish, dance, and go to the horse races. He also was an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, and in the summer the Cleveland Indians. Elizabeth devoted her energies to raising the kids and shopping.[4] In the late 1950s business was slow in Mansfield. An old friend of Don's had been trying for years to get him to come to Phoenix, Arizona. In 1958 Elizabeth and Don decided to finally go. He was 48 at the time, and worked the rest of his career in Phoenix as plumber and pipefitter.

Children: (5)

5.1.....James Eugene Schambs (*1937, +2018)

Gene followed his parents to Phoenix in 1958. He also worked as a plumber and pipefitter. One evening Jim/Gene (again, a dispute among grandmothers on what to call him) was with his mother Elizabeth in Zales, a large jewelry store Elizabeth frequented on a regular basis. In fact, the story goes that because Mrs. Schambs was such a picky customer at Zales, the sales personnel in the store would see her coming and choose who had to wait on her.[7] On this particular evening Carolyn "Kaye" Watts (1943 Salt Pit CO) drew the short straw. Normally Kaye, the accountant, worked in the back room. Gene and Kaye were married less than a year later in 1963.

While living in Arizona, Gene and Kaye enjoyed making many trips throughout the west. They moved back to Ohio in 1968, which enabled Gene to strengthen his ties to his favorite teams – also the Buckeyes and Cleveland Indians. He is a staunch Big Ten fan. Kay continues her work as bookkeeper and safety manager for a construction company.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Pamela Dee Schambs (*1968)

Pam married Alexander Wayne Chadwick (1961).

Children: (4)

4.1.....Paige Alexis Chadwick (*1993, +1993)

4.2.....Morgan Alexa Chadwick (*1994)

4.3.....Brook Alexandra Chadwick (*1997)

4.4.....Alexander Anthony Chadwick (*2004)

2.2.....Tanya Joy Schambs (*1971)

Tanya married Robert Baxter on 13 July 1996.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Erike Baxter (*1998)

2.2.....Steven James Baxter (*1999)

5.2.....Phyllis Annete Schambs (*1939)

Phyllis married Steve Patterson (1939).

Family Gathering (with maiden names)
Back Row fr. Left: Phyllis Schambs, Christine Harrison, Genevieve Harrison, LaDonna Harrison, Eleanor Harrison
Front Row: John Gilger, Gene Schambs, Dick Gilger

Children: (2)

2.1.....Lori Patterson (*1960)

Lori and Jeffrey Goff (1960) in 1983.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Jeffery Lynn Goff (*1984)

2.2.....Scott Allen Goff (*1986)

2.2.....Michael James Patterson (*1966)

Michael married Pamela Teice (1967).

Children: (2)

2.1.....Cody Ryan Patterson (*1991)

2.2.....Cassandra Elizabeth Patterson (*1993)

Phyllis later married Virgil Stewart (1924).

5.3.....David Lee Schambs (*1940)

David was a handful as a child. His mother said she "owed all her gray hair to him."[4] He was always getting into fights with other kids, the ones that were bigger than David. One time Dave took his younger brother John over to the neighbor's farm, where they dug up a bunch of little pine trees. When Elizabeth caught them, she sent them back to replant them. They did, but upside down so the roots were at the top of the tree.

Dave was married in 1961 to Beverly Schulty (1943).

Children: (3)

3.1.....Dean B. Schambs (*1963)

Dean married Kristyne R. Knoch (1966) in 1990.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Michelle Kristyne Schambs (*1993)

2.2.....Bryan Dean Schambs

3.2.....Tammie Schambs (*1965)

Tammie married Scott Seifert (1963).

Children: (2)

2.1.....Dowl Jorden Seifert (*1992)

2.2.....Chase Michael Seifert (*1995)

3.3.....Todd Schambs (*1968)

Todd married Mimi Newhouser (1969).

Children: (1)

1.1.....Mike Schambs (*1987)

5.4.....John Douglas Schambs (*1943)

John married Gayle Grover (1947) in 1966. One of his hobbies was taking care of his 1964 Chevy with "four in the floor." One day when he came outside only the aircleaner was sitting in the street where he had left the car the day before. The police found the car, but it had been stripped. The insurance company had it put back together and returned it to John. A month later the car was stolen again. And once again it was found, restored, and returned to John. Soon thereafter he received a cancellation notice from the insurance company.[4]

Children: (3)

3.1.....Lisa Marie Schambs (*1967)

Lisa first married Daniel Lambros, then later married Dennis Sullivan (1955).

3.2.....Diane Lynn Schambs (*1970)

Diane married Michael Allen St. John (1969).

3.3.....Leslie Ann Schambs (*1977.)

5.5.....Judith Kay Schambs (*1946)

Judith married Rex Swayzee (1944). (Ask about story of Gene running her over with his bike)

Children: (2)

2.1.....Rex Alan Swayzee (*1966)

2.2.....Michelle Lee Swayzee (*1971)

Michelle married Dave Eugene Mathis (1967).

Children: (2)

2.1.....Curtis David Mathis (*1999)

2.2.....Conner James Mathis (*2002)

9.6.....Carrie Barbra Schambs (*abt 1866 Ganges OH, +1923)

Allie and Carrie McGaw

Carrie married Almer A. McGaw (abt 1860 – abt 1924) in about 1888..[1] We are aware of no children. Click for another picture.


Eugene (1867)	The Three Brothers, John (1859), Eugene (1867), and Phillip (1873)

9.7.....Eugene Schambs (*21.02.1871 Ganges OH)

Little is known about Eugene. We do have a 1900 U.S. Census record of him living in a boarding house in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania. Allegheny City is now a part of Pittsburgh. He was enumerated as being a 31 year old single male, occupation "solicitor" (salesman). The Census record gives his birthdate as October 1869. His 1871 birthdate as shown above comes from his marriage license.

A year later on 4 April 1901 Eugene married Bertha Sieger (*23.08.1877 Siegersville PA, +19.05.1926 Youngstown OH). Siegersville's name was changed to Orefield, which is located near Allentown in Lehigh County in the eastern part of the state. The marriage was in Mahoning County OH, due east of Mansfield bordering the state of Pennsylvania.

Previously we had confusing/conflicting information about Bertha. With locating their marriage license application, the questions have been resolved. Bertha was the daughter of Frank and Selina Hanson Sieger, although Selina's both given and family names are quite different in different documents. For the time being we will consider her to be Selina Hanson Sieger.

In the 1880 Census, the Siegers were living in Greenville, Mercer County PA, just across the stateline from Youngstown OH. Frank was a tin peddler. Their third child, Bertha, was enumerated as "Daisy". In the 1900 Census the family was living in Youngstown OH. Daisy was single and enumerated as Daisy B., the "B" presumably for Bertha.

The marriage was short-lived, for in 1904 Daisy was married for the second time to a MIchael McGinnis.

According to Ruth Deisher Thomas, Eugene later went "out west," perhaps to California. [1] We have another picture, reportedly of Eugene. He is most likely the person on the left.

9.8.....Phillip Jacob Schambs (*1873 Ganges OH, +1928 Cleveland OH)

We have a photograph reputed to be of Phillip. He appears to be perhaps in his early twenties.

Phillip was married at age thirty on 6 June 1903 to Clara B. St. John (1873 Ganges OH -1946 Cleveland OH).

Phillip Schambs (1873) and his wife Clara St. John, probably at their wedding in 1903.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Roseline May Schambs (*1904, +1985)

Rose married Ralph MacKenzie in 1933.

Children: (4)

4.1.....Jean Elizabeth MacKenzie (*1935)

Jean was married in 1957 to Taylor Stoneman.

4.2.....David Bruce MacKenzie (*1936)

David married Kay Kirkman.

4.3.....Neil St. John MacKenzie (*1939)

Neil MacKenzie was married to Marilyn Jablon in 1963

4.4.....Jennifer Ellen MacKenzie (*1947)

Jennifer married M. Stephen Cook in 1967.

Violet (*1908) and Roseline (*1904)
click to enlarge

3.2.....Violet A. Schambs (*1908)

Violet was married in 1938 to Robert C. Bliss (1906), a Canadian.

3.3.....Clara Schambs (*aft 1920)

9.9.....Josephine Margaret Schambs (*12.12.1875 Ganges OH, +16.12.1942 Lakewood OH)

Josephine became a teacher as a young lady. When she finished her schooling she applied to the local school board for a teaching position.

We have several documents relating to her teaching. First is a letter of recommendation from F.W. Black, a resident of Shiloh, for the teaching position. Unfortunately it is a challenge to read. Then there is the "formal" offer from the Directors of the White Hall School. She received her first certificate to teach in 1892, at the age of 17.[1] She taught at least two years, for we also have the certificate from 1893.


Josie M. Schambs (1875)	Josie and Fred Deisher

On June 13, 1898, Josie married Frederick Charles Deisher (1873 in Frackville, PA – 1942 in Lakewood, OH). The wedding was in Ganges. By then Fred Deisher was already established in the sanitary engineering business in Cleveland.

Josie frequently returned to Ganges to visit the family. Many letters written between Josie and Fred talk of their excursions to Ganges, and of their affection for one another.[1] Fred and Josie were active in the Masons (Al Koran Lodge) and Eastern Star (Lincoln Chapter #309), respectively. In the Eastern Star newletter for Jan/Feb 1943 is an obituary for Josephine.

Josie was baptized on June 17, 1899 at the age of 24 into the Presbyterian Church, presumably the church to which Fred belonged.

We have a picture of a very interesting card which Josie sent to her mother Margaret. We do not know when it was sent.

Children: (4)

4.1.....Grace Jane Schambs Deisher (*1899 Lakewood OH– 1978 Lakewood OH)

In April 1926 Grace married Elmer Richard Charles Springborn (*1900 Cleveland OH, +1969 New Port Richey FL) in Lakewood OH. Grace was quite an accomplished piano player.

After their children were married and Elmer retired, Grace and Elmer moved to Florida. Elmer died in Florida on 18.03.1969. After Elmer's death Grace suffered from Alzheimer's disease. She moved back to Lakewood to live with one of her daughters. Shortly after moving back to Lakewood, Grace was taken in by her sister Ruth. After another short time Grace was placed in a nursing home where she died on 23.01.1978.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Betty Jane Deisher Springborn (*1927 Cleveland OH)

Betty married Thomas Charles Schuster (1925) in 1946.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Sharon Rae Schuster (*1947 Cleveland OH)

Sharon married Arthur LeRoy Carter (1943 Waterloo IA) in 1972.

3.2.....Thomas Charles Schuster (*1949 Cleveland OH)

Tom married Barbara Allison Johnston (1948 Ashbury Park NJ).

3.3.....Elizabeth Elsie Schuster (*1950 Cleveland OH)

Elizabeth and John Roland Connelly (1950 Mahopac, NY) were married. They have two sons.

Children: (2)

2.1.....John Thomas Connelly (*1976)

2.2.....Wessley Michael Connelly (*1978)

2.2.....Robert Dale Springborn (*1935 Lakewood OH)

Bob Springborn married Patricia Ann Copeland (1936 Cleveland, OH) in 1957 in Cleveland.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Robert Richard Springborn (*1958)

3.2.....Christine Springborn (*1961)

3.3.....Jennifer Springborn (*1963)

4.2.....Frederick Charles Deisher (*1903 Cleveland OH– 1977 Cleveland OH)

Fred went to college and law school (Ohio Northern Law School), becoming an attorney. He became disenchanted with this profession, however, and became a cabbie instead.[1] Fred was married twice. His first marriage was in 1926 to Theresa Katherine Smith (1902 Cleveland, OH) in 1926 in Cleveland. They had no children. Fred later divorced Theresa and in 1950 married Betty Jane Westcott (1923) in 1950. There was one child from the second marriage.

Children: (1)

4.1.....Betelyn Deisher (*1951 Cleveland OH)

Bete married Michael Stuart Dudas (1949 Cleveland, OH) in 1971.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Michael Jason Christopher Dudas (*1979)

4.3.....Richard Franklin Deisher (*1908 Cleveland OH, +1966 Mentor OH)

Richard served in World War II in a submarine in the Pacific. He married Louise Miller. By profession Richard was a druggist, having graduated from Ohio Northern Pharmacology College and owning his own pharmacy in East Cleveland. He died from leukemia, resulting from a blood transfusion.[1] They had no children.

4.4.....Ruth Josephine Deisher (*27.09.1916 Lakewood OH, +24.05.1998 Ramseur, NC)

Ruth and Joseph Elliott Thomas (*28.02.1917 Louisville KY, +8.03.1984 Lakewood OH) were married on 28.02.1938 in Lakewood, OH. She inherited a penchant for writing and a strong sense of family ties from her mother.[1]

Children: (4)

4.1.....Ruth Josephine Thomas (*1940 Lakewood OH)

Ruth first married George Dennis (1939). They had one child. In a second marriage, Ruth married Neil W. Danielson (*1939 Lakewood OH), who adopted the child (Charles Thomas) from the first marriage. Ruth and Neil have two children of their own.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Charles Thomas Danielson (*1960 Lakewood OH)

Charles married Linda Koleno (*1960 PA) on Valentine's Day 1981.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Charlton J. Danielson (*1983 Orlando FL)

2.2.....Christopher J. Danielson (*1984 Orlando FL)

3.2.....Cari Josette Danielson (*1968 Lakewood OH)

In July 1994 Cari was married to John M. Hearns (*1969 VA).

Children: (2)

2.1.....Paige Josette Hearns (*1996 Cleveland OH)

2.2.....Payton Patricia Hearns (*1998 Cleveland OH)

3.3.....Charity Elise Danielson (*1969 Lakewood OH)

Charity married Steven DeMarzo (*1966 Brooklyn NY) on 27 Nov 1993.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Jessica Elise DeMarzo (*1994 Ft. Lauderdale FL)

2.2.....Stephen Nathaniel DeMarzo (*2000 Ft. Lauderdale FL)

4.2.....Richard Joseph Thomas (*1942 Cleveland OH)

In 1963 Dick married Billie Fay Levan (*1941 Tracy City TN) in Strongsville OH on 28 Sep 1963. They live in Ramseur NC. Dick is retired.

Children: (3)

3.1.....Pamela Renee Thomas (*1969 Cleveland OH)

Pamela married Timothy True () in 1990. They had one son.

Children: (3)

3.1.....David Joseph True (*1990 Asheboro NC)

Following their divorce, in June 1994 Pamela married Mark L. Trexler (*1962 New York NY). They have two sons.

3.2.....Dylan Keith Trexler (*1996 Asheboro NC)

3.3.....Brendon Elliott Trexler (*2000 Asheboro NC)

3.2.....Richard Joseph Thomas (*1970 Cleveland OH)

Richard Jr. married Allison Harmon (*1970).

Children: (2)

2.1.....Alexander Joseph Thomas (*1999 Greensboro NC)

2.2.....Hannah Thomas (*2007 South Korea)

3.3.....Katherine Levan Thomas (*1972 Cleveland OH)

Katherine and Steven Smith (Asheboro NC) have two sons.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Tyler Smith (*1995 Asheboro NC)

2.2.....Jason Smith (*1998 Asheboro NC)

4.3.....Jay Elliott Thomas (*1948 Brooklyn OH)

In 1969 Jay married Marcia Ann Phillips (*1948 Cleveland OH) in Strongville OH.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Glenn Phillips Thomas (*1970 Strongsville OH)

4.4.....David Charles Thomas (*1951 Brooklyn OH)

David has married three times. In 1969 he was married in Strongville OH to Lynn Elaine Quayle (*1951). They had two children:

Children: (6)

6.1.....David Charles Frederick D. Thomas (*1970 Lakewood OH)

David married Gigi Gilliam () on 25 Jun 1994.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Zachary Thomas (*1998)

2.2.....Austin Thomas (*2001)

6.2.....Daniel Christopher Thomas (*1972 Lakewood OH)

David then married Carol Peterson ().

6.3.....Dustin Thomas (*1983 Deland FL)

The third wife of David Thomas is Kathy Marley (*1968), with whom he has three more children.

6.4.....Brittany Thomas (*1991 FL)

6.5.....Dawn Thomas (*1993 FL)

6.6.....Danielle Thomas (*1995 FL)

8.6.....Barbara Schembs (*1834, +Ohio after 1870)

In the Heimathschein of Johann Schembs I, it is noted that two daughters of Johann and Magdalena were emigrating. Presumably Barbara (1834) was one of the two. The only record we have of Barbara in Amerika is from the 1870 Census when she is living with her widower father Johann. She was 36 years old at the time, not 50.

8.7.....Margaretha Schembs (*13.02.1837 Herrnsheim, +1906 Ohio)

Margaret was the third surviving child of Johann and Magdalena Kronauer Schembs. She emigrated with her parents and her sister Barbara in 1852. In 1857, at the age of 20, Margaret married Christopher Sunkel (1813-1895), age 44. It was the second marriage for Sunkel. Sunkel was also an emigrant, having been born in Iba (Bebra), Germany. Prior to his emigration he completed his apprenticeship as a Schreiner – carpenter and cabinet maker, and was admitted into the guild.

Left:

The Travel Record "Wanderbuch"
of Christopher Sunkel from 1839

While Germany was not a country at the time (it was a loose
grouping of small kingdoms and fiefdoms), a Wanderbuch,
equivalent to a passport, was required to move about.

This image is of Page 1.
The center of this page gives the physical description of Christopher:

Height: 5'6
Hair: brown
Forehead: open
Eyes: blue
Nose: pointy
Mouth: thick
Teeth: good
Beard: brown
Chin: full
Face: round
Color: healthy
Build: small

Page 3 (not shown): "Present travel permit: with the exception
of the states of France, Switzerland and Belgien, legal for all in and out
States for unlimited time. The owner has fulfilled his military commitments.
All civil and military authorities are requested to let the owner free and
unhampered travel in and out of their territory and extend protection and
help toward him.
Rothenberg, District of Kurhessen
the 26th of February 1839
with the seal of authority"

Without the proper documentation a person was subject to being
conscripted into the next kingdom's army, or detained on any basis.

Christopher Sunkel had previously been married to Elizabeth Baum (1821-1856), a German emigrant, in 1839. They lived in Virginia, then moved to Mansfield, Ohio. They had six children, the first five born in Virginia and the last in Mansfield. The children by the first marriage were Jacob (1841), Elizabeth (1842), Martha (1846-1848), Matthias (1850), Dora (1853), and Elizabeth (1855-1857). Elizabeth Baum Sunkel (1821) died in December, 1856. The children's ages ranged from 1 to 15 years. Within four months (20 March 1857) Christopher married Margaret Schembs/Schambs, and Margaret instantly became the mother of six.


Margaret Schambs Sunkel (1837-1906)	The Windsor Schoolhouse where the children of Margaret and Christopher Sunkel attended school

In Amerika Sunkel was a farmer, carpenter, and peddler. He, together with a partner named Seidel, sold miscellaneous goods in the area from a wagon. He was a successful entrepreneur, and was able to loan money to others. This led to several legal disputes, including disputes with his father-in-law Johann Schembs.

The Sunkels lived in Windsor, OH, about six miles to the northeast of Mansfield, halfway to Ashland. Margaretha and Christopher had nine children. At this time we only have information about one.

Children: (9)

9.1.....Mary Sunkel (*1859, +1878)

9.2.....Lena Sunkel (*1861)

9.3.....Frank Sunkel (*1864)

9.4.....John Joseph Sunkel (*1866, +1949)

John Sunkel married Stella "Margaret" Haverfield (1870-1940) in 1893. Margaret apparently was a strong woman, an advocate of education, and a woman of some means. John did not want their children to go to college. Margaret did. She paid for them to do so.

John Sunkel

Children: (2)

2.1.....Harry Clay Sunkel (*1895)

Harry Sunkel went to the University of Chicago, where he received his degree in dentistry. He practiced in Lincoln IL, and was active in the fraternal order of Masons. He married Isabel Wilkinson with whom he had two children.

Children: (2)

2.1.....William Sunkel (*abt 1924)

2.2.....Susan Sunkel (*abt 1926)

Later in a second marriage Harry was wed to a woman with the first name Naomi.

2.2.....Helen Mae Sunkel (*1897, +1981)

Helen was born in Mansfield OH. She went to Kent State where she received her degree in education. Helen married Kenneth Mark Ray Garn (1897-1979) in 1918. She worked as a substitute teacher in grammar school, occasionally in the classes where her children were. This the children did not like. She was active in the PTA, and an officer in Worthy Matrons, the women's organization affiliated with the Masons.

Ken was in the Army in WWI, but did not go overseas. In his career he worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad, in charge of engineers and firemen from Cleveland to Columbus. In retirement they moved to Clearwater FL, where he was active in music, both making violins (at least 12), and playing in two bands. He played the piano, organ, fiddled on the violin, and played the trumpet and the trombone. In the Army Ken had been a bugler.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Kenneth Harry Garn (*1920, +2010 Sarasota FL)

Ken had a lengthy experience in WWII, where he was in Army's First Engineers Special Brigade (amphibious). He went ashore in North Africa (11/8/1942), then trained troops for the invasion of Sicily/Gela. He then participated in the landings in Sicily and Salermo on the Italian mainland. Both landings were difficult, partly because of the resistance, but also because the planning had not been better. Then in November, 1943, Ken went to England where they began training raw troops for the invasion in Normandy, France, in June 1944 – D Day. Ken wrote a book on his personal experiences, "Storming Ashore", which is available on Amazon.com. His second book came out in 2004, "The Secret D-Day", about an earlier practice landing (code named "Operation Tiger") off the coast of Devon, England. The German U-boats were aware of it and sank some of the LST's, causing many casualties.

Ken married Marianne Ferguson (1923-2006) in 1947 after his return from Europe. They lived in Monticello NY, where he was a partner in a large insurance agency. They retired to Sarasota FL. Both Ken and Marianne have done extensive research on their family histories. In November 2008, two years after the passing of Marianne, Ken married a woman named Jackie. Ken continued playing tennis into his 90th year! Ken died in 2010.

JDS Note: Ken came to our Familientreffen in Herrnsheim in 2005. I also visited Ken and Marianne in Sarasota twice. He was a fun person to be with. I miss him.

Children: (2)

2.1.....Kenneth Charles Garn (*1948)

Ken and Gloria Jean Rohrmann (1959) were married in 1982 in Lake Huntington, NY.

Children: (1)

1.1.....Kienan Charles George Garn (*1989)

Kienan went to Western New England School of Engineering. He played baseball and soccer while there.

2.2.....Lisa Garn

9.5.....Andrew Sunkel (*1868)

9.6.....Rose Sunkel (*1872)

9.7.....George Sunkel (*1875)

9.8.....Emma Sunkel (*1877)

9.9.....Maggie Sunkel (*1879)

At 66 years old, Christopher Sunkel (1813-1895) went out of the baby business. He fathered 15 children in his two marriages. Margaret Schambs Sunkel raised them all.

8.8.....Anna Maria Schembs (*1839 Herrnsheim, +1840 Herrnsheim)

FOOTNOTES:

[1] Dick Thomas (1942)

[2] Ruth Deisher (1916) per Dick Thomas (1942)

[3] LaDonna Harrison (1925)

[4] James Eugene Schambs (1937)

[5] Bob Reynolds (1939)

[6] Christine Harrison (1929)

[7] Carolyn "Kaye" Watts Schambs (1943)

[8] Ken Garn (1920-2010)