Harry Closson Rorer

M, #14, b. 18 March 1886, d. 27 January 1968
Harry Closson Rorer(1886-1968)
son of Frank C. and Augusta Stone Rorer
Harry Rorer and son L. Frank c. 1922
Harry C. Rorer
Harry (age 81) and Emily Rorer (age 88) at the wedding of their granddaughter, Louise Rorer, to Walter Rosett, July 1, 1967. Presybterian Church, Morrisville, PA.
FatherFranklin Cadwallader Rorer b. 2 Oct 1851, d. 1 Oct 1930
MotherSusan Augusta Stone b. 15 Sep 1855, d. 4 Dec 1934
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Ancestral Line of Laurence Frank Rorer
Last Edited7 May 2018
Birth*18 March 1886 Harry Closson Rorer was born on 18 March 1886 in Doylestown, Bucks, PA.1 
 He was the son of Franklin Cadwallader Rorer and Susan Augusta Stone. 
Namesake* Harry Closson Rorer was named for William Harrison Closson, his maternal grandmother's brother. 
Baptism26 August 1894 Eight year old Harry was baptized on 26 August 1894 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Doylestown, Bucks, PA. His sister, Lottie Bolton Rorer was baptized on the same day. Mrs. Rorer was Harry's sponsor; Mrs. Randall was the sponsor for Charlotte.2,3 
Event-Misc*13 November 1897 "Harry Rorer, a pupil of the borough schools, was knocked down and run over by a team on State Street, Friday afternoon. The little fellow waked to the office of Dr. Swartzlander, Jr. where it was found only slight injuries had been sustained."4 
(Child with parents) 1900 Census16 June 1900 Harrison C. appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of Hamilton Street, Doylestown, Bucks, PA in the household of his parents, Franklin and Susan. He was 14 years old and attending school.5 
(Child with parents) 1910 Census27 April 1910 By 27 April 1910, Harry had moved to Doylestown Road, Upper Doylestown Township with his parents and siblings. He was a 23 year old printer working at a newspaper. He had been unemployed for 12 weeks during the prior year.6 
Marriage*1 March 1917 He married Emily McGookin, daughter of James McGookin and Sarah Frazer, on 1 March 1917 at Philadelphia, PA. He was thirty years old.7 
Draft registration*12 September 1918  Harry registered for the draft on 12 September 1918 at Doylestown, Bucks, PA. He was a self employed trucker, i.e., a farmer who raises crops and sells them door to door to city dwellers. Harry was of medium height, medium build with grey eyes and brown hair.8 
Census 1920*2 January 1920 He and Emily McGookin appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of Pebble Hill Road, Doylestown Township, enumerated 2 January 1920. Their son Frank was listed as living with them. Harry was a truck farmer working a rented farm on his own account. Harry's father, Frank, was living with the family and was employed as a truck farmer.9 
Census 1930*10 April 1930 By 10 April 1930, Harry and Emily had moved to 132 Heck Avenue, Neptune Township, Monmouth, NJ. Their thirteen year old son Laurence Frank was living with them. The family was paying $38 in monthly rent for their home and had a radio. Harry was a printer working in a press office.10 
Census 1940*16 April 1940 Harry and Emily and son, Frank, had moved again and appeared on the 1940 Federal Census of 111 Park Lane, Hamilton, Mercer, NJ, enumerated 16 April 1940. 54 year old Harry had completed eighth grade. He worked 48 hours a week as a printer for a hotel. He was paid $1020. 60 year old Emily had also completed the eighth grade but had not worked outside the home during the year. The family had been residing at this address in 1935.The rent paid was $31 per month.11 
Draft registration1942  In 1942, 56 year old Harry registered for the "old man's" draft of World War II while residing at 111 Park Lane, Trenton, Mercer, NJ. He was a working as a printer for the Stacy-Trent Hotel.1 
Compiler's Comment In those days, hotels employed a printer to print up new menus every day. 
Death*27 January 1968 He died on 27 January 1968 at Mercer Hospital, Trenton, Mercer, NJ, at age 81.12 
Obituary*29 January 1968 He's death was was recorded in an Obituary on 29 January 1968 in the Trenton Evening Times, Trenton, NJ. "Harry C. Rorer. YARDLEY - Harry C. Rorer, 81, of 11 Richie Lane died Saturday in Mercer Hospital after a brief illness. Born in Doylestown, Pa he had lived in Trenton and Titusville and resided here for six months. He was a retired printer. He is survived by his wife, Emily, one son J [sic] Frank of Yardley and four grandchildren. The funeral and interment will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of Charles Reed Funeral Home."12 
Burial*30 January 1968 He was buried on 30 January 1968 at Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, Bucks Co, PA, Section I2, Row 5, number 24.13,14 
Compiler's Comment* According to the compiler's father, who was Harry's son, Harry had completed tenth grade. When comparing his education to that of his wife who completed eighth grade in Ireland, they determined that an eighth grade education in Ireland was equivalent to a tenth grade education in the U.S. Harry had to leave school to take a job and help support his family. His father got him an apprenticeship as a printer at the local newspaper.

Harry's two best friends in school became the town physician and the newspaper editor. Mickey remembers that as a young boy walking down the street in Doylestown, if one of those two men was walking nearby, Harry would cross the street to avoid meeting these men. Mickey never understood why. Was Harry ashamed of the way his life turned out when compared to that of his two friends?

Harry much preferred farming to being a printer. After he married, he rented a farm at Pebble Hill, outside of Doylestown, and started a truck farm. He raised his crops then drove them to Philadelphia neighborhoods and sold them from the back of his Ford truck. He had a very loyal group of customers until one mistake ruined his reputation. His corn was so well liked that he ran out before reaching the end of his route. He drove back to a neighboring farm in the Doylestown area and bought a load of corn from the farmer. Harry returned to his route and sold this corn. Unfortunately, the farmer sold him field corn, fit only as food for horses. Apparently, Harry was too trusting and naively assumed the farmer had sold him good quality corn fit for human consumption. Harry lost a lot of customers because of that.

He had another problem. Emily had gone to work in NYC to earn some money to help with the farm expenses including buying materials to make cold frames. In the meantime, Harry's sister and brother had taken the exam to become the Doylestown Postmaster. His sister, Charlotte, received the highest score. His brother, Laurence, had the second highest score. Charlotte relinquished her claim on the position to her brother. Once in this position, Laurence was opening the mail to Harry from his wife, Emily, which contained money Emily was sending to Harry. Laurence was stealing this hard earned money. Rather than forcing Laurence to repay him, Harry gave up the farm and, in return, Laurence became responsible for taking care of their parents.

Harry returned to the printing business and took a job at the Jersey Shore. He also opened a restaurant there but never made any money. He would buy a large roast for the weekend meal but Emily would invite all her friends and give them free meals.There was no way the restaurant could be profitable. Eventually Harry got a job as the purchasing manager at a hotel. This was a position he really enjoyed and apparently was very good at.

Harry never lost his love for farming. After Emily and Harry moved to their large piece of land on Blue Ridge Road, Titusville, NJ, they always had a large garden. The compiler remembers picking strawberries and raspberries at their house as a child. 

Family

Emily McGookin b. 13 Sep 1879, d. 24 Sep 1976
Child

Citations

  1. [S1234] U.S., World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942, online Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com), (accessed 14 Feb 2016).
  2. [S1295] Doylestown, PA,, Church records, 1846-1927 [St. Paul's Episcopal]: microfilm 1486647, Family History Library.
  3. [S500] 26 Aug 1894, Baptismal Certificate, in the files of Louise Rorer Rosett.
  4. [S1701] Doylestown Intelligencer, 13 Nov 1897, courtesy of Paul Rorer.
  5. [S488] 1900 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 14, page 18B, dwelling 389, family 398.
  6. [S489] 1910 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, upper Doylestown Township, E.D. 18, page 6B, dwelling 110, family 110.
  7. [S1290] Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Marriage Index, 1885-1951: Marriage license 359594, (accessed 8 Feb 2016).
  8. [S606] World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918, online Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com), (accessed 14 Feb 2016).
  9. [S9] 1920 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Township, E.D. 22, page 1A, dwelling 5, family 6.
  10. [S937] 1930 U.S. census, Monmouth, NJ, population schedule, Neptune, E.D. 92, page 3B, dwelling 82, family 85.
  11. [S1288] 1940 U.S. census, Mercer, NJ, population schedule, Hamilton Township, E.D. 11-17, page 10B, line 52.
  12. [S1297] Trenton Evening Times, 29 Jan 1968, page 8, www.genealogybank.com.
  13. [S316] Doylestown Cemetery,.
  14. [S564] Cemetery Card File Spruance Library.

Emily McGookin

F, #15, b. 13 September 1879, d. 24 September 1976
Emily McGookin (1879-1976)
daughter of Sarah Frazer and Jim McGookin
Harry and Emily Rorer tombstone, Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, PA. (Photo courtesy of Paul Rorer)
FatherJames McGookin d. 1884
MotherSarah Frazer b. 5 Nov 1857, d. 8 Aug 1939
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Ancestral Line of Laurence Frank Rorer
Last Edited7 May 2018
Birth*13 September 1879 Emily McGookin was born on 13 September 1879 in Belfast, Antrim, Northern Ireland.1 
 She was the daughter of James McGookin and Sarah Frazer. 
Compiler's Comment* Emily told her granddaughters that she travelled from Ireland to Canada to stay with relatives when there was an epidemic in Ireland. While in Canada she traveled to New Jersey to visit her boyfriend from Ireland, Jimmy Patrick. Jimmy was the son of an Irish minister of the Church of Ireland who had moved to New Jersey to tend to the many Irish expatriates. Jimmy's parents, however, rejected Emily. Jimmy still wanted to marry her, but Emily would not go where she was not wanted. There were probably many reasons they did not want their son to marry her, but one reason may have been that Emily was born to an unmarried woman and Emily's stepfather was a laborer. Perhaps they expected a "better" marriage for their son. Apparently Jimmy became an alcoholic and died from a broken neck after a fall down the stairs while drunk. It was sad to see Emily still shed tears when she talked about Jimmy even though sixty or more years had passed. 
Travel*17 November 1897 Emily returned to Ireland from her stay in Canada on 17 November 1897. She disembarked in Moville, Ireland, from the Dominion Line's Labrador after sailing from Montreal, Quebec, Canada.2 
(Witness) 1901 Irish census1901 Twenty two year old Emily was listed in the 1901 Irish census of 18 Hind Street, Pottinger, Down, Ireland living with her stepfather and mother, John Miles and Sarah Frazer. Emily was working as a stitcher. Her grandmother, Martha Orr Frazer was also a member of the household.3 
Immigration*14 April 1910 Thirteen years after returning to Ireland from Canada, Emily McGookin arrived at New York, NY, on 14 April 1910. She had sailed on the ship Caronia which departed from Liverpool, England. She was a domestic, in good health, 5"3" with blue eyes and fair skin. She paid her own passage and had $25. Her destination was her cousin, Mrs. Ross, Grace Terr, Harrison, NJ.4 
1910 Census*22 April 1910 Eight days after arriving in NY, Emily McGookin appeared on the 1910 Federal Census of 14 Grace Terrace, Harrison, Hudson, NJ, enumerated 22 April 1910. She was a boarder living in the home of James and Elizabeth Ross. Emily was an alien. The Ross family consisted of the father, mother and three children all born in Ireland. In addition to Emily, there were two other boarders also born in Ireland.5 
Research needed* Was Mrs. Ross Emily's cousin? That relationship was specified in Emily's immigration record but Emily never spoke to her grandchildren about a cousin in New Jersey. More research is needed to learn if there was a familial relationship between her landlady and Emily. 
Compiler's Comment According to family lore, Emily was working as a waitress at Bushkill Falls Hotel, PA when she met Harry Rorer. Harry was a printer at the same hotel. Apparently, Emily became pregnant at the resort. 
Marriage*1 March 1917 Three months prior to the birth of their son, Emily McGookin married Harry Closson Rorer, son of Franklin Cadwallader Rorer and Susan Augusta Stone, on 1 March 1917 at Philadelphia, PA.6 
Naturalization* She automatically became a U.S. citizen upon marrying Harry who was born in the U.S. 
Compiler's Comment Frank Rorer, Emily's son, said Emily had a difficult delivery in a Philadelphia hospital. The delivery was through the use of forceps. Emily had to stay and work in the hospital after the birth in order to pay off her hospital bill. Harry was living and working in Doylestown.

The compiler has seen a photograph of a beautiful "German woman from NY" who, Frank said, had been Harry's girlfriend. The photograph had been torn in half, with Harry keeping the half with the woman. Apparently, Harry had to break up with her to marry Emily. Perhaps the hope that Emily would miscarry led to the delay of the marriage ceremony until a few months before the birth. 
Census 1920*2 January 1920 She and Harry Closson Rorer appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of L, enumerated 2 January 1920. Their children Laurence were listed as living with them.7 
Census 1930*10 April 1930 By 10 April 1930, Harry had given up farming and had moved to 132 Heck Avenue, Neptune Township, Monmouth, NJ with his wife and son. Harry was working as a printer in a press office.8 
Census 1940*16 April 1940 By 16 April 1940, the family had moved once again, this time to 111 Park Lane, Hamilton, Mercer, NJ. Their 22 year old son, Laurence Frank, was listed as living with them. Harry was working in a hotel as a printer.9 
Compiler's Comment The only real estate they owned was their home on Blue Ridge Road, Titusville, NJ. Harry preferred renting to owning; Emily preferred to own her home. The compiler remembers visiting them in their Blue Ridge home in the 1950's. There was a very large lot on which they planted strawberries, raspberries and other crops. In the late 1960's when they became unable to live on their own, they moved in to the bottom level of their son's split level home in Yardley, PA. 
Death*24 September 1976 She died on 24 September 1976 at Mercer Medical Center, Trenton, Mercer, NJ, at age 97.10 
Obituary*25 September 1976 Her death was was recorded in an Obituary on 25 September 1976 at the Trenton Evening Times, Trenton, NJ. "Mrs. Emily Rorer. Yardley - Mrs. Emily Rorer, 97, of 11 Richie Lane, died Friday in Mercer Medical Center. Born in Belfast, Ireland, Mrs. Rorer resided in Yardley for the past 10 years and previously made her home in Titusville and Trenton. Wife of the late Harry C. Rorer, she is survived by a son, L. Frank Rorer of Yardley; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services and burial will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of Reed and Steinbach, Doylestown."11 
Burial*28 September 1976 She was buried on 28 September 1976 at Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, Bucks, Pennsylvania, Section I2, Row 5. Cause of death: cardio- pulmonary arrest.12,13 
Compiler's Comment Emily's grandfather, John Fraser, was a mural painter. Emily seems to have inherited some of his artistic sensibility. She was an excellent knitter and won prizes at the New Jersey State Fair for her hand crafts. She had the ability to look at someone and determine which colors would be the most flattering. She bought furniture for her home on a lay away plan that would later become classics, such as the Morris chair. 

Family

Harry Closson Rorer b. 18 Mar 1886, d. 27 Jan 1968
Child

Citations

  1. [S401] Emily McGookin entry, birth registration 105 (4 Oct 1879).
  2. [S1286] Emily McGookin, Labrador U.K., Incoming Passenger Lists,1878-1960, www.ancestry.com (accessed 7 Feb 2016).
  3. [S1287] Census of Ireland, 1901, Knockbredd Parish, Pottinger Ward, Belfast, online www.census.nationalarchives.ie/pages/1901/Down/Pottinger/Hind_Street/1262279, (accessed 7 Feb 2016).
  4. [S1285] Emily McGookin, Caronia New York, Passenger Lists, 1820-1957, www.ancestry.com (accessed 7 Feb 2016).
  5. [S936] 1910 U.S. census, Hudson, NJ, population schedule, Harrison Ward 4, E.D. 42, page 9A, dwelling 97, family 174.
  6. [S1290] Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Marriage Index, 1885-1951: Marriage license 359594, (accessed 8 Feb 2016).
  7. [S9] 1920 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Township, E.D. 22, page 1A, dwelling 5, family 6.
  8. [S937] 1930 U.S. census, Monmouth, NJ, population schedule, Neptune, E.D. 92, page 3B, dwelling 82, family 85.
  9. [S1288] 1940 U.S. census, Mercer, NJ, population schedule, Hamilton Township, E.D. 11-17, page 10B, line 52.
  10. [S1296] Emily Rorer, Certificate of Death.
  11. [S1289] Trenton Evening Times, 25 Sep 1976, page 10, www.genealogybank.comn (accessed 7 Feb 2016).
  12. [S316] Doylestown Cemetery,.
  13. [S564] Cemetery Card File Spruance Library.

Franklin Cadwallader Rorer

M, #16, b. 2 October 1851, d. 1 October 1930
Franklin Cadwallader Rorer
Frank C. Rorer and his grandson L. Frank, aka Mickey, Rorer 4 Aug 1921 on a trip to Willow Grove Park to hear John Philip Sousa play a concert.
Frank and Augusta Rorer Tombstone, Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestiown, PA. (Photo courtesy of Paul Rorer.)
FatherEdward Rorer b. 30 Dec 1822, d. 31 Dec 1887
MotherJane R Peeky b. 1 Sep 1826, d. 17 May 1889
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Ancestral Line of Laurence Frank Rorer
Last Edited9 May 2018
Birth*2 October 1851 Franklin Cadwallader Rorer was born on 2 October 1851 in Bucks, PA.1,2 
 He was the son of Edward Rorer and Jane R Peeky. 
(with Parents) 1860 Census16 July 1860 Eight year old Frank was living with his parents, Edward and Jane, in New Britain Township, Bucks, PA on 16 July 1860.3 
(with parents) 1870 Census15 August 1870 By 15 August 1870, Frank had moved to Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA with his parents. The 18 year old's occupation was listed as "at home."4 
Church*March 1877 On March 1877, Franklin joined the Doylestown Presbyterian Church, Doylestown, Bucks, PA. He was 25.5 
(Child with parents) 1880 Census15 June 1880 Frank was still living with his parents on 15 June 1880. The family had moved to Doylestown Township. The 28 year old was working as a farm laborer, probably on his father's farm.6 
Marriage*circa 1883 He married Susan Augusta Stone, daughter of Hiram C Stone and Sarah H Closson, circa 1883.7 
Compiler's Comment Augusta had been a student at the Linden Seminary. The Seminary was adjacent to the Rorer farm in Doylestown Township. Perhaps, the couple met due to the proximity of the farm and seminary. 
(Heir) Probate22 October 1889 He was named heir of his mother's estate which was probated on 22 October 1889 at Doylestown, Bucks, PA. His one fifth of the real estate in his mother's estate and the personal property in his father's estate would have been $1198.38.8 
Compiler's Comment* Frank would have received the equivalent of $30,415 in 2016 dollars. Did he use the money to buy the home he owned when the 1900 census was taken? 
1900 Census*16 June 1900 Franklin and Augusta were living in Hamilton Street, Doylestown, Bucks, PA on 16 June 1900. Their children Charlotte Bolton, Harry Closson and Laurence Paschall were listed as living with them. Frank's occupation was trucker. He was living in the Borough of Doylestown in a home he owned.7 
Church24 March 1909 He dropped off the rolls of the Doylestown Presbyterian Church on 24 March 1909 about 32 years after he joined the church.5 
1910 Census*27 April 1910 By 27 April 1910, Frank and Augusta had moved to Doylestown Road, Upper Doylestown Township. Their children Charlotte Bolton, Harry Closson and Laurence Paschall were listed as living with them. The family now lived in a rented house and Frank was employed as a laborer on a truck farm. He had not been unemployed during the prior year.9 
Compiler's Comment What happened to the family's finances during the prior decade? If the 1900 census was correct, Frank had owned a home and in 1910 was living in a rented home. Perhaps the 1900 census was incorrect? After checking the Bucks County Grantor and Grantee Indexes (FHL microfilms 171846 and 172864, page 640), no records were found of Frank owning any property. But the question remains, what happened to the money Frank inherited from his mother's estate? 
Compiler's Comment According to the compiler's father, grandson of Frank C. Rorer. Frank C. worked as a laborer at Burpee's Seed Farm, 1 mile south of Doylestown. While working at Burpee's, he developed a new hybrid of corn. 
(Other) Census 19202 January 1920 He appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of Doylestown Township, an unknown place , in the household of Harry Closson Rorer and Emily McGookin.10 
Census 1930*11 April 1930 Frank and Augusta appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of 158 E. Oakland Avenue, Doylestown Borough, enumerated 11 April 1930. Frank was 78 years old, Augusta was 74.11 
Death*1 October 1930 He died on 1 October 1930 at Doylestown, Bucks, PA, at age 78. Cause of death was chronic endocaraditis.2 
Burial*4 October 1930 He was buried on 4 October 1930 at Doylestown Cemetery, in Section T, row 5, number 53.1 
Compiler's Comment The compiler's father was fortunate to have a close relationship with his paternal grandfather, Franklin Cadwallader Rorer. Frank, for whom the compiler's father was named, was born, raised and died in the Doylestown area of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. As a young man, he helped his father, Edward Rorer, drive cattle from the family farm to the market in Philadelphia. When the compiler was a teenager taking driving lessons from her father, we occasionally drove the road from Yardley, where the compiler grew up, to Doylestown by way of Newtown. Along a turn in the road was a landmark, the Anchor Inn. The compiler's father said that inn was where his grandfather and the other drovers would spend the night on the way to the Philadelphia cattle market. He also pointed out the farm at Pebble Hill where Mickey, his parents and paternal grandparents lived. Later Mickey and his parents moved down the road to another farm. Both of these farms were rented.The compiler's grandfather, Harry Rorer, did not believe in owning land. Was that a reaction to his own grandfather's land speculation? 

Family

Susan Augusta Stone b. 15 Sep 1855, d. 4 Dec 1934
Children

Citations

  1. [S316] Doylestown Cemetery,.
  2. [S498] Frank C. Rorer, Certification of Death.
  3. [S503] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, New Britain Township, page 381, dwelling 235, family 274.
  4. [S486] 1870 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township (Lumberville P.O.), page 539, dwelling 366, family 359.
  5. [S1024] Robert Elwood Hoagland G.R.S., "Research Report", extracted from Doyestown Presbyterian Church Register, Members 1844-1937 at Spruance Library, Doylestown, PA.
  6. [S487] 1880 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Township, E.D. 138, page 209, dwelling 287, family 320.
  7. [S488] 1900 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 14, page 18B, dwelling 389, family 398.
  8. [S1006] Probate File Case #1889-17761.
  9. [S489] 1910 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, upper Doylestown Township, E.D. 18, page 6B, dwelling 110, family 110.
  10. [S9] 1920 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Township, E.D. 22, page 1A, dwelling 5, family 6.
  11. [S491] 1930 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 19, dwelling 290, family 309.

Susan Augusta Stone

F, #17, b. 15 September 1855, d. 4 December 1934
Augusta Stone Rorer holding her grandson, Frank, aka Mickey
FatherHiram C Stone b. 7 Mar 1832, d. 17 Nov 1913
MotherSarah H Closson b. c 1831, d. 3 Jun 1889
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Ancestral Line of Laurence Frank Rorer
Last Edited30 Apr 2018
Birth*15 September 1855 Susan Augusta Stone was born on 15 September 1855 in Elgin, ILL.1 
Compiler's Comment* Augusta's parents had moved to Elgin after they were married in Doylestown. Augusta's father abandoned his pregnant wife and returned to Pennsylvania to marry another woman without having obtained a divorce from Augusta's mother. Her mother returned to Doylestown with her daughter where she had family and friends. 
 She was the daughter of Hiram C Stone and Sarah H Closson. 
(Other) 1860 Census5 June 1860 By 5 June 1860, Augusta and her mother were living in the household of Wilhelmina Morris in Doylestown Borough, Bucks, PA. Augusta's mother, Sarah (Sallie) Stone, was working as a domestic.2 
(Other) 1870 Census25 June 1870 She appeared on the 1870 Federal Census of Horsham Township, Montgomery, PA, in the household of William S Mann and Rachel Closson. Rachel Closson Mann was Augusta's aunt, a sister of her mother. 15 year old Augusta was attending school.3 
Church*1873 Augusta was back in Doylestown by 1873 when she joined the Doylestown and Deep Run Presbyterian Church.4 
Marriage*circa 1883 She married Franklin Cadwallader Rorer, son of Edward Rorer and Jane R Peeky, circa 1883.5 
1900 Census*16 June 1900 Frank and Augusta were living in Hamilton Street, Doylestown, Bucks, PA on 16 June 1900. Their children Charlotte Bolton, Harry Closson and Laurence Paschall were listed as living with them. Frank's occupation was trucker. He was living in the Borough of Doylestown in a home he owned.5 
Event-Misc* " A lamp exploded in a bed room at the home of Mrs. Frank Rorer, on Hamilton street, Sunday evening. With rare presence of mind Mrs. Rorer, who was in the room at the time with her little child, extinguished the fames, which spread rapidly, with the bed clothes and hurled the lamp out of the window."6 
1910 Census27 April 1910 By 27 April 1910, Frank and Augusta had moved to Doylestown Road, Upper Doylestown Township. Their children Charlotte Bolton, Harry Closson and Laurence Paschall were listed as living with them. The family now lived in a rented house and Frank was employed as a laborer on a truck farm. He had not been unemployed during the prior year.7 
Census 193011 April 1930 Frank and Augusta appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of 158 E. Oakland Avenue, Doylestown Borough, enumerated 11 April 1930. Frank was 78 years old, Augusta was 74.8 
Death*4 December 1934 She died on 4 December 1934 at Doylestown, at age 79.9 
Obituary* Her death was was recorded in an Obituary: " Rorer, Mrs. Augusta S., widow of Frank C. Rorer, died December 4, 1934 at the residence of her son, Lawrence P., South Franklin St, Doylestown, PA; native of Elgin, IL, daughter of the late Hiram and Sarah Stone; one time a student at Linden Seminary, Doylestown. Leaves C. Harry, Asbury Park, NJ, Lawrence P., Miss Charlotte, Doylestown. She was a member of St. Paul's P. E. Church."10 
Burial*7 December 1934 She was buried on 7 December 1934 at Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, Bucks Co, PA, Section T, Row 5, number 53. Cause of death: chronic endocarditis.1 
Namesake* Although she went by the name of Augusta, rather than her first name of Susan, her first name was probably to honor Susan Maulsbury, her great aunt. Augusta's mother, Sarah Closson Stone, lost her mother, Hannah Maulsbury Closson, when she was only nine years old. Her mother's sister, Susan Maulsbury, raised the motherless Sarah Closson. 

Family

Franklin Cadwallader Rorer b. 2 Oct 1851, d. 1 Oct 1930
Children

Citations

  1. [S1349] Augusta Stone Rorer, Certificate of Death, www.ancestry.com (accessed 9 Oct 2016).
  2. [S1350] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, page 334, dwelling 209. family 209.
  3. [S492] 1870 U.S. census, Montogmery, PA, population schedule, Horsham Township, page 432, dwelling 56, family 58.
  4. [S1348] Presbyterian Historical Society, Doylestown Presbyterian Church Records, 1813-1928; microfilm 907387, item 4.
  5. [S488] 1900 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 14, page 18B, dwelling 389, family 398.
  6. [S1695] Bucks County Intelligencer, (undated), courtesy of Paul Rorer.
  7. [S489] 1910 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, upper Doylestown Township, E.D. 18, page 6B, dwelling 110, family 110.
  8. [S491] 1930 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 19, dwelling 290, family 309.
  9. [S1349] Augusta Stone Rorer, Certificate of Death.
  10. [S559] Bucks County Historical Society, Record of Deaths in Bucks County and territory immediately contiguous, 1934-1956, compiled mainly from the newspapers of the county; 0172930.

Charlotte Bolton Rorer

F, #18, b. 29 August 1883, d. November 1965
Charlotte Rorer graduated from Doylestown High School in 1903. The school was built in 1890. It was destroyed in a fire in 1973.
Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, PA. Photo by Shiva, www.findagrave.com
FatherFranklin Cadwallader Rorer b. 2 Oct 1851, d. 1 Oct 1930
MotherSusan Augusta Stone b. 15 Sep 1855, d. 4 Dec 1934
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited18 Mar 2018
Birth*29 August 1883 Charlotte Bolton Rorer was born either in 1883 or 1884. Although the 1900 census gave a birthdate of Aug 1884, the Social Security Death Index and tombstone show a birthdate of 29 Aug 1883.1 
 She was the daughter of Franklin Cadwallader Rorer and Susan Augusta Stone. 
Namesake* Charlotte was named for Charlotte Peeky Bolton, her paternal grandmother's sister. 
Baptism26 August 1894 She was baptized on 26 August 1894 at St Paul's Episcopal Church, Doylestown, Bucks, PA, at age 10.2 
(Child with parents) 1900 Census16 June 1900 She appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of Hamilton Street, Doylestown, Bucks, PA in the household of her parents, Franklin Cadwallader Rorer and Susan Augusta Stone. She was 16 years old and attending school.3 
Education*1903 Charlotte graduated from Doylestown High School, Doylestown, Bucks, PA in 1903.4 
Note* Having a high school diploma was unusual for her generation. Only 6.4% of students graduated from high school 1899-1900. 
(Child with parents) 1910 Census27 April 1910 She appeared on the 1910 Federal Census of Doylestown Road, Upper Doylestown Township in the household of her parents, Frank and Augusta. Charlotte was a teacher in grade school.5 
(Witness) Baptism7 October 1917 She witnessed the baptism of her nephew, Laurence Frank Rorer, on 7 October 1917 at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 10th Street above Chestnut, Philadelphia, PA.6 
(Other) Census 19307 April 1930 She appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of 345 Linden Avenue, Doylestown Boro, Bucks, PA, in the household of Laurence Paschall Rorer and Mabel Dieterich. Charlotte was Laurence's sister. She was enployed as a bookkeeper.7 
(Witness) Census 19406 April 1940 Although by 6 April 1940, the Laurence Rorer family had moved from a home they owned in 1930 to a rented home at 70 West State Street, Doylestown Borough, Bucks, PA, Charlotte remained a member of her brother's household. She was working as a bookkeeper at an automobile agency. She had worked forty hours in the prior week and earned an annual salary of $885. The census data comfirmed she attended four years of high school.8 
Misc*12 September 1949 An article in The Trenton Evening Times dated 12 September 1949 was headlined "No Doylestown Democrats?" It stated "For the first time on record, at least as far back as veteran voters can recall, the Democratic Party in Doylestown doesn't have a single candidate for office on the local ballot." Ward officers on the Republican ticket included Charlotte B. Rorer, as inspector of election.9 
Residence*1957 Charlotte lived at 26 N. Vermont Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ, in 1957.10 
Death*November 1965 She died in November 1965 at age 82.11 
Burial*6 November 1965 She was buried on 6 November 1965 at Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, Bucks, PA, Section TT, Row 6, number 41. Cause of death: arterioslerotic heart disease.12,13 
Compiler's Comment* Charlotte's nephew, L. Frank "Mickey" Rorer, named his second daughter, Charlotte Louise Rorer, after his aunt. Mickey told the compiler that Charlotte attended "Normal School", the teacher training institution and predecessor to state teacher's colleges. Apparently she did not enjoy teaching as she worked as a bookkeeper for many years. She worked for Mickey when he opened a Ford dealership in Sellersville, PA and eventually moved the dealership to Quakertown, PA.
Charlotte was the highest scorer on the exam to become postmaster of Doylestown. Her brother, Laurence, had the second highest score. Since Laurence had a family, she deferred to him so that he could have the job. Mickey said that she had several boyfriends but she never married. 

Citations

  1. [S488] 1900 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 14, page 18B, dwelling 389, family 398, www.ancestry.com (accessed 14 Feb 2016).
  2. [S1625] Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Church and Town Records, 1669-2013, online www.ancestry.com, (acessed 14 Jan 2018).
  3. [S488] 1900 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 14, page 18B, dwelling 389, family 398.
  4. [S1317] Doylestown High School Students, online www.doylestownhistorical.org/OODoylestownHighSchoolStudents.aspx.
  5. [S489] 1910 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, upper Doylestown Township, E.D. 18, page 6B, dwelling 110, family 110.
  6. [S499] (photocopy of original), Baptismal Certificate, 7 Oct 1917, in the files of Louise Rorer Rosett.
  7. [S1602] 1930 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Boro, First Ward, E.D. 9-19, dwelling 142, family 145, page 6B.
  8. [S1603] 1940 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, Third Ward, E.D. 9-30, household 94, page 4B.
  9. [S1627] "No Doylestown Democrats?", Trenton Evening Times, 12 Sep 1949, Trenton, NJ, page 18, online www.genealogybank.com, (acessed 14 Jan 2018).
  10. [S1624] Atlantic City, New Jersey, City Directory, 1957, online www.ancestry.com, (acessed 14 Jan 2018).
  11. [S1097] Find a Grave Index 1600's-Current, online www.findagrave.com, Memorial #87781340 (accessed 14 Jan 2018).
  12. [S316] Doylestown Cemetery,.
  13. [S564] Cemetery Card File Spruance Library.

Laurence Paschall Rorer

M, #19, b. 27 June 1897, d. May 1964
Laurence P.Rorer tombstone, Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, PA. (Photo courtesy of Paul Rorer.)
FatherFranklin Cadwallader Rorer b. 2 Oct 1851, d. 1 Oct 1930
MotherSusan Augusta Stone b. 15 Sep 1855, d. 4 Dec 1934
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited5 May 2018
Birth*27 June 1897 Laurence Paschall Rorer was born on 27 June 1897 in Doylestown, Bucks, PA.1 
 He was the son of Franklin Cadwallader Rorer and Susan Augusta Stone. 
(Child with parents) 1900 Census16 June 1900 Three year old Laurence appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of Hamilton Street, Doylestown, Bucks, PA in the household of his parents, Franklin and Susan.2 
(Child with parents) 1910 Census27 April 1910 By 27 April 1910, he had moved to Doylestown Road, Upper Doylestown Township with his parents.3 
Church*4 April 1915 On 4 April 1915, Laurence Paschall Rorer was a communicant of the St Paul's Episcopal Church, Doylestown, Bucks, PA.4 
Draft registration24 August 1918  On 24 August 1918 at Doylestown, Bucks, PA, Laurence Paschall Rorer registered for the World War I draft. He was employed by the Doylestown Post office, had light brown eyes and light brown hair.5 
Marriage*1 October 1921 He married Mabel Dieterich on 1 October 1921 at Goshen, Orange, NY. They were married by Charles T.A. Pise, priest, residing at 44 Green St, Goshen, NY. Laurence was a postal clerk living at 7 Court Street, Doylestown. Mabel was also a post office clerk who resided at 72 West State Street, Doylestown.6 
Census 1930*7 April 1930 He and Mabel appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of 345 Linden Avenue, Doylestown Boro, Bucks, PA, enumerated 7 April 1930. Their son Alan was listed as living with them.The family owned their own home valued at $7000. They also owned a radio. Laurence was a clerk at the Post Office.7 
Census 1940*6 April 1940 By 6 April 1940, Laurence and Mabel had moved to 70 West State Street, Doylestown Borough, Bucks, PA Their son Alan was living with them as was Laurence's sister, Charlotte. The family no longer owned their own home. Instead they were living in a rented house which cost $22/month. Laurence worked 44 hours in the prior week and earned $2600 a year as the Assistant Postmaster.8 
Draft registration*16 February 1942  On 16 February 1942, Laurence registered for the draft at his Local Board No.3, Bucks County Courthouse, Doylestown, PA. He was 5'9.5", weighed 171 pounds and had brown hair and eyes and a ruddy complexion. He resided at 70 W. State Street, Doylestown, He worked for the US Post Office, Fair Hill Station, Philadelphia. Mabel D. Rorer was listed as the person who would always know his address.9 
Death*May 1964 He died in May 1964 at Grand View Hospital, West Rockhill Township, Bucks, PA, at age 66. At the time of his death, he was residing at 7th & Market Streets, Perkasie, PA. His occupation was hotel clerk. The informant was his wife, Mabel Rorer of Doylestown, PA. The cause of death was cerebral thrombosis.10 
Burial*8 May 1964 He was buried on 8 May 1964 at Doylestown Cemetery, Doylestown, Bucks, PA; Section TT, Row 6, number 41.1,11 
Compiler's Comment* According to the compiler's father, Laurence Frank "Mickey" Rorer, nephew of Laurence P., Laurence built one of the first radios in Bucks County. Laurence also built the overdrive automatic transmission in wood but did not have the money to have it built in metal in order to secure a patent or to have it manufactured. Laurence and Mabel were separated for many years and lived apart. Laurence may have had a drinking problem. 

Family

Mabel Dieterich b. 21 Feb 1891, d. 30 Mar 1980
Children

Citations

  1. [S316] Doylestown Cemetery,.
  2. [S488] 1900 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, E.D. 14, page 18B, dwelling 389, family 398.
  3. [S489] 1910 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, upper Doylestown Township, E.D. 18, page 6B, dwelling 110, family 110.
  4. [S1608] Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Church and Town Records, 1669-2013 for Laurence P. Rover[sic], online www.ancestry.com.
  5. [S606] World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918, online Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com), (accessed 05 Feb 2018).
  6. [S1609] Record of Marriages: entry for Laurence Paschall Rorer and Mabel Dieterich, 01 Oct 1921 digital image by subscription, Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com), Provo, UT.
  7. [S1602] 1930 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Boro, First Ward, E.D. 9-19, dwelling 142, family 145, page 6B.
  8. [S1603] 1940 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Borough, Third Ward, E.D. 9-30, household 94, page 4B.
  9. [S1234] U.S., World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942, online Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com), for Lawrence Paschall Rorer (accessed 13 Jan 2018).
  10. [S1607] Laurence P. Rorer, Certificate of Death.
  11. [S564] Cemetery Card File Spruance Library.