William H. Rorer

M, #214, b. 5 September 1841, d. 26 December 1925
Plaque on the Civil War Monument to the 104th Pennsylvania Regiment, Doylestown, PA. (Source: www.hmdb.org/photoID81350)
Tombstone in the Doylestown Presbyterian Cemetery of William Rorer with a Grand Army of the Republic medallion in front. (Photo by Frederich Otto, www.findagrave.com)
FatherWilliam Rorer b. 1 Jan 1816, d. 21 Jan 1899
MotherMaria Litlow b. 5 Mar 1823, d. 15 Mar 1912
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited7 May 2018
Birth*5 September 1841 William H. Rorer was born on 5 September 1841 at Germantown, Philadelphia, PA.1,2 
 He was the son of William Rorer and Maria Litlow. 
(with Parents) Census 185017 September 1850 He appeared on the 1850 Federal Census of Upper Milford Township, Lehigh, PA, in the household of his parents, William and Maria.3 
(with Parents) Census 18602 July 1860 He appeared on the 1860 Federal Census of New Britain Township, Bucks, PA, in the household of his parents, William and Maria. The eighteen year old attended school.4 
Census 1860*16 July 1860 William appeared a second time on the 1860 Federal Census of New Britain Township, Bucks, PA, enumerated 16 July 1860. He was reported as a member of the household John W. Thomas. Thomas was a farmer owning $4000 worth of real estate and $800 worth of personal property. William was probably a farm hand, perhaps a seasonal member of this houshold.5 
Milit-Beg*24 September 1861 He enlisted in the 104th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment on 24 September 1861 at Doylestown, Bucks, PA.6 
(Witness) History "W.W.H. Davis ... was authorized in Aug 1861 to raise a regiment to serve three years in the war. Camp Lacey was established on the outskirts of Doylestown to train and equip the volunteers. In November, the regiment of 1049 men departed by train for Washington, D.C., to become part of the Army of the Potomac. In the Spring of 1862, the 104th embarked with the army for the Peninsular Campaign. In their first major battle, Fair Oaks-Seven Pines, they received the brunt of a Confederate attack, suffering heavy losses.7 
Military31 May 1862 William was wounded in the shoulder on 31 May 1862 at the Battle of Fair Oaks.6 
Military*1 January 1863 On 1 January 1863, he was promoted to Sergeant. The Company Muster Roll for July and Aug 1863 show William's rank had been reduced to Private. No reason was stated for the reduction in rank. 
Military6 January 1864 On 6 Jan 1864, William was promoted to Corporal. 
Military25 February 1864 He re-enlisted on 25 February 1864 at Morris Island, South Carolina for another three years. He received a $60 bounty. At the time, he was described as 5'7" with hazel eyes, light hair and light complexion. Shortly thereafter, he was detached from Company I to the Recruiting Service. By the time the March and April, 1864, Company I Muster roll was written, Corporal Rorer was in Philadelphia. He was on detached duty conducting volunteers and drafted men to their regiments. The Company Muster Rolls for May and June show he returned to his regiment. 
Military24 September 1864 On 24 September 1864, he mustered out of Company I and transferred to an unorganized Battalion to serve out the remainder of his time. That same day he was promoted to Duty Sergeant. 
Military29 October 1864 He was promoted from Duty Sergeant to Orderly Sergeant on 29 October 1864. 
Milit-End*2 January 1865 He ended military service on 2 January 1865 at Bermuda Front, VA, due to the expiration of term of service.6 
Compiler's Comment For a history of the 104th PA Regiment, read "History of the 104th Pennsylvania Regiment, From August 22nd, 1861 to September 30th, 1864" written by W.W.H. Davis and originally published in 1866 in Philadelphia. 
Marriage*25 December 1865 He married Maria Clara Van Wart on 25 December 1865 at New York, New York.2 
Occupation1872 He was a driver in 1872 living at 242 W 74th B, New York, NY.8 
Census 1880*3 June 1880 Although the family was not found in the 1870 census, William H. Rorer and Maria Clara Van Wart appeared on the 1880 Federal Census of New York, New York, enumerated 3 June 1880. Their children William, Charles, Emma and Clarence were listed as living with them. His occupation was car driver.9 
Military Pension*9 November 1882 Two years later William H. Rorer applied for an Invalid Military Pension on 9 November 1882 at New York, NY. According to his pension application, his address was 2197 2nd Avenue, New York City. His disability arose from an injury received at the Battle of Fair Oaks, VA, on May 31, 1862. He was hit in the right shoulder by a Minie Ball. He spent four months at the hospital in Annapolis, MD. He returned to active duty 1 Dec 1862. In May 1863, he was treated for "debiility" and in Sep 1863 for "catarrh." Since his discharge, he had lived in New York City and worked as a bar tender. He had become totally disabled and unable to perform manual labor. He was awarded pension certificate 247,400.2 
Incarceration*10 October 1884 He was incarcerated on 10 October 1884 at Sing Sing Prison, Ossining, Westchester, NY, on the charge of larceny. At the time of his admission to prison he was married and had been residing at 1124 Third Avenue, New York City. He could read and write. Habits moderate, a tobacco user, and a Protestant. He was also known as William Roberts. 
Attributes* He was 5'7" tall and weighed 154 pounds. He had brown eyes, brown hair, nearly bald, and a dark complexion. His forehead was smooth, arched and heavy eyebrows. Very peculiar shaped ears set close to head, small nose. long upper lip, lips thin smooth and straight. Small mole on left cheek. He had a tattoo on the inside of his left forearm with a wreath and the words:" Battle of Fair Oaks May 31, 1862." (This was the date of his injury during the Civil War.) 2 scars on back of right shoulder. 
Occupation* He had been a conductor prior to his admission to prison.10 
Misc*1896 The Cross Keys Tavern, Buckingham, was situated about a mile above Doylestown. In the fall of 1896, the historic sign showing the emblem of the crossed keys was removed from the south to the north end of the building. 'When taken down it fell apart from long exposure to the weather, but the pieces were bound together and the sign was as staunch as ever. It was retouched and restored to its old-time glory in red, black and gold, by William H. Rorer, Doylestown, and the original design preserved."11 
Compiler's Comment* Could this have been the same William H.Rorer who requested a pension because he could not perform manual labor or was the carpenter 80 year old William H.Rorer, Sr. the father of this subject? 
Military Pension4 October 1897 He applied for a Military Pension under the Act of 27 Jun 1890 on 4 October 1897 at Buckingham Township, Bucks, PA. This was the same act under which his father applied for a pension. 56 year old William H. claimed he was unable to perform manual labor due to a gunshot would to his shoulder, double inguinal hernia, disease of the stomach and rheumatism in all of his limbs and body. Andrew Bartles and William Hayes affirmed that William Rorer served in Company D and Company I of the 104th Pennsylvania Infantry.2 
(Witness) Obituary23 January 1899 He was listed as a son of William Rorer in his father's obituary published on 23 January 1899 at Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA. William H. Rorer was living at home.12 
Military Pension22 February 1907 Congress passed another Pension Act on 6 Feb 1907. On 22 February 1907, sixteen days after the act passed, William H. Rorer applied for a Military Pension at Doylestown, Bucks, PA. William was 65.2 
Note This pension act provided a pension for a person who served at least 90 days in the Civil War or 60 days in the war with Mexico, had been honarably discharged and reached the age of 62. An applicant between the ages of 62 and 69 was entitled to a pension of $12/month; age 70 to 74 would get $15/month; age 75 and over would get $20/month.13 
Military Pension28 June 1912 Five years later William, applied for an increase in his Military Pension under the Act of 11 May 1912. His application was submitted on 28 June 1912 at Doylestown, Bucks, PA. 
Military Pension28 September 1915 He lost his pension certificate and requested a new one on 28 September 1915.2 
1920 Census*12 January 1920 Although he was not found on the 1900 and 1910 census rolls, 78 year old William appeared on the 1920 Federal Census of Bucks County Almshouse, Doylestown, Bucks, PA, enumerated 12 January 1920. He was a widower and a pauper.14 
Compiler's Comment He was survived by one daughter, Dorothea, and possibly by two other children. Why didn't any of then take him into their home? It is easy to surmise that he was estranged from any surviving children. 
Death*26 December 1925 He died on 26 December 1925 at age 84.1,2 
Burial* He was buried at Lot 114, Doylestown Presbyterian Churchyard, Doylestown, Bucks, PA.1 
Military Pension7 January 1926 He was dropped from the roll of the Military Pension on 7 January 1926 due to his death. At the time, he was receiving $50/month.2 
Compiler's Comment William's family was what is called "dysfunctional" in 2018. He served time in prison as did two of his sons. Yet, he was promoted several times while serving in the Union Army. He must have been trustworthy and hard working to merit the promotions. Is it possible that the carnage he saw in one of the fiercest battles of the war, Fair Oaks, changed this young man? There was nothing called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in the 19th century. He had to deal with the horrors that he saw that day in his own way. Drink may have been the only antidote he had. Couple that with the injury to his shoulder and he had quite a burden. Surgical techniques were rudimentary at best and pain remedies non existent. His participation in the Civil War may have been his downfall which carried over in to the next generation. 

Family

Maria Clara Van Wart b. c 1848
Children

Citations

  1. [S1124] The History Committee, A History of Doylestown Presbyterian Church, page 186.
  2. [S1141] William H. Rorer, Civil War Pension File, certificate 247400.
  3. [S1113] 1850 U.S. census, Lehigh, PA, population schedule, Upper Milford Township, page 45A, dwelling 322, family 332.
  4. [S1116] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, New Britain Township, page 24, dwelling 159, family 189.
  5. [S1140] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, New Britain Township, page 383, dwelling 251, family 291.
  6. [S1146] "Civil War Union Veteran Muster Rolls and Casualty Sheet."
  7. [S1151] The Historical Marker Database, online www.HMdb.org/marker.asp?marker=23480.
  8. [S1154] U.S. City Directories, 1821-1989.
  9. [S1142] 1880 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, E.D. 417, page 160A, family 202.
  10. [S1145] New York, Sing Sing Prison Admission Registers, 1865-1939 for William Roberts, online http://search.ancestry.com/cga-bin/sse.dll
  11. [S1150] WWH Davis, Warren S. Ely and John W. Jordan, History of Bucks County, Pennsylvania: from the discovery of the Delaware to the present time, Volume 3, page 334.
  12. [S1119] Doylestown Intelligencer, 23 Jan 1899.
  13. [S1148] Act of February 6, 1907, online prometheusli.com/genealogy/Smith/SmithHistory/Act1907/htm.
  14. [S1143] 1920 U.S. census, Bucks, PA. population schedule, Doylestown, E.D. 22, page 7B.

Sarah Ann Rorer

F, #215, b. December 1845, d. 27 December 1929
FatherWilliam Rorer b. 1 Jan 1816, d. 21 Jan 1899
MotherMaria Litlow b. 5 Mar 1823, d. 15 Mar 1912
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited1 May 2018
Birth*December 1845 Sarah Ann Rorer was born in December 1845 in PA.1 
 She was the daughter of William Rorer and Maria Litlow. 
(with Parents) Census 185017 September 1850 She appeared on the 1850 Federal Census of Upper Milford Township, Lehigh, PA, in the household of her parents, William and Maria.2 
(with Parents) Census 18602 July 1860 By the time of the 1860 census, she and her family had moved to New Britain Township, Bucks, PA.3 
Marriage* She married Frank Downing.4 
(Witness) Obituary23 January 1899 She was listed as a daughter of William Rorer in William's obituary published on 23 January 1899 at Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA. Sarah was living in New York.5 
(Other) Census 19006 June 1900 She appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA, in the household of Arthur Chapman. She was a widow working as the housekeeper for the single Mr. Chapman. The census shows Sarah had given birth to five children, four of whom were living at the time of the census.1 
Compiler's Comment Only two of these children have been identified. 
(Other) Census 191019 April 1910 She appeared on the 1910 Federal Census of Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA, in the household of Arthur Chapman, continuing to work as his housekeeper.6 
Census 1920*19 January 1920 By 19 January 1920, Sarah Ann Rorer Downing was head of her own household and was living in a rented house on Dublin Pike, Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA. Her son, LLewellyn, was living with her.7 
Death*27 December 1929 She died on 27 December 1929 at Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA. Cause of death was chronic infectious arthritis with cardio-vascular-renal disease. The informant was Llewlyn F. Downing.4 
Burial30 December 1929 She was buried on 30 December 1929 at Section F Lot 2, Plumstead Friends Meeting Cemetery, Doylestown, Bucks, PA.4 

Family

Frank Downing b. c Mar 1837, d. 22 Oct 1874
Children

Citations

  1. [S1175] 1900 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doyestown Township, E.D. 13, page 3A, dwelling 43, family 48.
  2. [S1113] 1850 U.S. census, Lehigh, PA, population schedule, Upper Milford Township, page 45A, dwelling 322, family 332.
  3. [S1116] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, New Britain Township, page 24, dwelling 159, family 189.
  4. [S1178] Sarah A. Downing, Certificate of Death.
  5. [S1119] Doylestown Intelligencer, 23 Jan 1899.
  6. [S1176] 1910 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Township, E. D. 18, page 3A, dwelling 47, family 47.
  7. [S1177] 1920 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Doylestown Township, E. D. 21, page 5A, dwelling 96, family 98.

George B. Rorer

M, #216, b. 2 August 1849
Grave of George B. Rorer, Clay Street Cemetery, Fairbanks, Alaska. Photo by Barb Kumpula, www.findagrave.com
Clay Street Cemetery, Fairbanks, Alaska on the National Historic Register. Photo by Jesse Clifton, www.findagrave.com.
Entrance of Clay Street Cemetery, Fairbanks, Alaska. Photo by Jesse Clifton, www.findagrave.com.
FatherWilliam Rorer b. 1 Jan 1816, d. 21 Jan 1899
MotherMaria Litlow b. 5 Mar 1823, d. 15 Mar 1912
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited30 Apr 2018
Birth*2 August 1849 George B. Rorer was born on 2 August 1849 at PA.1 
 He was the son of William Rorer and Maria Litlow. 
(with Parents) Census 185017 September 1850 He appeared on the 1850 Federal Census of Upper Milford Township, Lehigh, PA, in the household of his parents, William Rorer and Maria Litlow.2 
(with Parents) Census 18602 July 1860 By 2 July 1860, he had moved with his family to New Britain Township, Bucks, PA.3 
(with Parents) Census 187023 August 1870 He appeared on the 1870 Federal Census of Lumberville, 134th District, Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA, in the household of his parents, William and Maria.4 
Census 1870*25 August 1870 He also appeared on the 1870 Federal Census of Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA, enumerated 25 August 1870.The 21 year old was residing with Aaron Kratz. Kratz was a well-to-do Carriage Maker. George was a wood worker.5 
Compiler's Comment* The Kratz family census was taken on 25 Aug; the William Rorer census was taken on 23 Aug. Was George B. splitting his time between the two households? 
Marriage*3 August 1876 He married Caroline H. Smith, daughter of Michael Smith and Mary (?), on 3 August 1876.The bride and groom were from Danborough, a small village near Plumstead. The Reverend S.M. Andrews performed the ceremony.6 
Census 1880*8 June 1880 George and Caroline appeared on the 1880 Federal Census of Bethlehem Township, Hunterdon, NJ, enumerated 8 June 1880. Their daughter, Lizzie, was living with them. Caroline's mother, Mary Smith, was also a member of the household. George was a carriage builder. No other record has been found for Caroline or Lizzie Rorer.7 
(Witness) Obituary23 January 1899 He was listed as a son of William Rorer in William's obituary published on 23 January 1899 at Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA. George was involved in gold mining in Alaska.8 
Occupation3 November 1905 George whereabouts since the 1880 census and prior to 1905 are unknown. By 1905, however, he had moved to Alaska where he was appointed Postmaster on 3 November 1905 of Gakona, Akaska. Presumably his wife and daughter died prior to his journey to Alaska.9 
Occupation10 February 1906 He was the manager of the Valdez Transportation Co. Gakona Roadhouse, Gakona, Alaska. The roadhouse was 130 miles from Valdez at the junction of the Fairbanks Trail. The ad claimed the roadhouse was the best one on the trail and was on the Main Line which was the shortest and best. Meals and beds were $1.00 each. The ad appeared on 10 February 1906 in the Valdez News.10 
Occupation*1 January 1907 He was reapppointed postmaster on 1 January 1907 at Gakona, Alaska Territory.11 
Census 1910*16 January 1910 By 1910, George B. Rorer had moved about thirty miles south where he appeared on the 1910 Federal Census of Alaska Territory, at Copper Center, enumerated 16 January 1910. He owned his own home and was a widower.12 
1920 Census*1920 He remained in Copper Center where he appeared on the 1920 Federal Census. He was 70 years old, born in Pennsylvania about 1850. Both his parents were also born in Pennsylvania. He was the widowed head of household living in a home he owned free of a mortgage.13 
Death23 November 1920 He died on 23 November 1920 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Fairbanks, Alaska, at age 71. The cause of death was gastric cancer. He had been a trapper on a fox farm.1 
Burial*28 November 1920 He was buried on 28 November 1920 at Clay Street Cemetery, Fairbanks North Star Borough, Fairbanks, Alaska, in Pioneer, NW Quarter #848.1,14 

Family

Caroline H. Smith b. c 1850
Child

Citations

  1. [S1163] George B. Rorer, Certification of Death.
  2. [S1113] 1850 U.S. census, Lehigh, PA, population schedule, Upper Milford Township, page 45A, dwelling 322, family 332.
  3. [S1116] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, New Britain Township, page 24, dwelling 159, family 189.
  4. [S1115] 1870 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, district 134, page 64, dwelling 522, family 515.
  5. [S1114] 1870 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, District 134, page 549B, dwelling 541. family 534.
  6. [S590] Frances Wise Waite and Arthur C. Smith, Bucks County Intelligencer Marriage Records , volume 1 1804-1834, volumes 2-3 1835-1860, volume 4-6 1861-1885, newspaper issue date 23 Aug 1876.
  7. [S1112] 1880 U.S. census, Hunterdon, NJ, population schedule, West District Bethlehem Township, E.D. 079, page 238D, dwelling 144, family 151.
  8. [S1119] Doylestown Intelligencer, 23 Jan 1899.
  9. [S1184] U.S., Appointments of U.S. Postmasters, 1832-1971, online www.ancestry.com (accessed 1 Jul 2015).
  10. [S1118] Valdez News, 10 Feb 1906, page 7.
  11. [S1117] Annual reports of the Department of the Interior for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1906. Governors of territories, etc.
  12. [S1183] 1910 U.S. census, Copper Center, Alaska Territory, population schedule, Division 3, page 4B, dwelling 38, family 38.
  13. [S1111] 1920 U.S. census, Copper Center, Third Judicial District, Territory of Alaska, population schedule, E.D. 8, page 9A.
  14. [S1097] Find a Grave Index 1600's-Current, online www.findagrave.com, Memorial #88654167.

John R. Rorer

M, #217, b. 29 January 1854, d. 25 October 1913
FatherWilliam Rorer b. 1 Jan 1816, d. 21 Jan 1899
MotherMaria Litlow b. 5 Mar 1823, d. 15 Mar 1912
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Ancestral Line of Jack H.Rorer
Last Edited1 May 2018
Birth*29 January 1854 John R. Rorer was born on 29 January 1854 in PA.1,2 
 He was the son of William Rorer and Maria Litlow. 
(with Parents) Census 18602 July 1860 He appeared on the 1860 Federal Census of New Britain Township, Bucks, PA, in the household of his parents, William and Maria.1 
State census*1 March 1875 Sometime between 1860 and 1875 John moved west. John R. Rorer was enumerated 1 March 1875 in the census of Potosi Township, Linn, KS He was a 24 year old miller. The other members of the household included Horace Carpenter and Gordelia B. Carpenter, hotelkeepers, Malcom J. Romine, merchant clerk and Sallie Grammer, domestic.3 
Marriage* He married Emma Shrek sometime after the 1875 Kansas census.4 
State census*1 March 1885 He and Emma were enumerated 1 March 1885 in the census of Pittsburg, Crawford, KS. Their children Clinton, Claud, Mable and Earl C. were living with them. Lawrence Sprattler, a 20 year old clerk, Mary Rodgers, a 19 year old domestic, and 12 year old Emma Kent were also in the home. John was a miller.4 
Deed Grantee*30 November 1887 On 30 November 1887, John R. Rorer purchased from H. B. Spicer and his wife, Melinda Spicer, for $7000, Spicer's 50% interest in Burden Mill, Cowley, KS. John assumed the existing mortgage on the property of $3000. Both parties were from Butler County, KS.5 
Deed Grantee15 December 1887 On 15 December 1887, John R. Rorer purchased from William Ford and his wife, Glunara E. Ford, the remaining 50% interest in the Burden Mill for $7000. Rorer assumed the existing mortgage of $2900. Ford was from Cowley County and John was from Butler County.6 
Deed Grantee17 March 1888 Three months late, on 17 March 1888, John R. Rorer purchased from J. P. Zimmerman and his wife, Elizabeth Zimmerman, for $2400, land located in Cowley, KS. John assumed the $1000 mortgage.7 
Deed Grantor12 July 1888 On 12 July 1888, John and Emma sold for $3200 to M.B. Jackson land located in Cowley, KS. Jackson assumed the $1000 mortgage on the property. The property was described as the "South half of the North West quarter and the Northeast quarter of the North West quarter and the South West quarter of the North East quarter of Section Twenty three in Township Thirty of Range Seven East."8 
Deed Grantor*15 September 1888 On 15 September 1888 and 6 Feb 1889, after about fifteen months of ownership, John and Emma sold their interest in the Burden Mill, Cowley, KS, 50% to H.H. Hardy and 50% to Charles F. Coleord.The selling price was $7000 from each party plus the assumption of mortgages totalling $2475.9,10 
Compiler's Comment* Why did he sell so soon? He sold it for about the same amount that he paid, so this was not a speculation opportunity. Was the mill not as profitable as he hoped? Did he find a better opportunity elsewhere? 
(Witness) Obituary23 January 1899 He was listed as a son of William Rorer in William's obituary published on 23 January 1899 at Doylestown Township, Bucks, PA. John was described as in business and living in Kansas City.11 
Compiler's Comment Perhaps Kansas City was the nearest large city to where John actually lived which would be known to people in Doylestown. 
Census 1910*21 April 1910 John, a miller, and wife, Emma, had moved to Shawnee, Pottawatomie, OK, by 21 April 1910. Their children Earl and Mildred were listed as living with them as well as their one year old grandson, John H. Also in the household were Edward Plumb, a real estate salesman, Mitchell Danforth, a lawyer in general practice and Maggie Miller, a children's nurse.12 
Compiler's Comment There was no one the household of the age to be the mother of the baby, John H. Presumably, Maggie Miller was part of the household in order to care for the child. 
Death*25 October 1913 He died on 25 October 1913 at Shawnee, Pottawatomie, OK, at age 59.2 
Obituary*26 October 1913 He's death was recorded in an Obituary on 26 October 1913 at Antlers, OK. "Antlers, Okla. Oct. 25---(Special.)---John Rorer, aged 58, died Saturday at the Keith hotel. He was a resident of Shawnee, but was engaged in the feed and lumber business at Antlers. His remains were shipped to Shawnee."13 
Burial* He was buried at Fairview Cemetery, Shawnee, Pottawatomie, OK.2 

Family

Emma Shrek b. c 1855
Children

Citations

  1. [S1116] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, New Britain Township, page 24, dwelling 159, family 189.
  2. [S1097] Find a Grave Index 1600's-Current, online www.findagrave.com, Memorial #100284143 (accessed 24 Mar 2018).
  3. [S1189] 1875 Kansas State Census, Linn County, Potosi Township, population schedule, page 37, family 9, (accessed 15 Jul 2015).
  4. [S1188] 1885 KS State Census, Crawford County, City of Pittsburg, population schedule, page 66, dwelling 514, family 514, (accessed 14 Jul 2015).
  5. [S1197] Deed Record: Book 28, page 296.
  6. [S1197] Deed Record: Book 18, page 19.
  7. [S1197] Deed Record: Book 32, page 113.
  8. [S1197] Deed Record: Book 30, page 587.
  9. [S1198] Deed Record: Book 33, page 503.
  10. [S1199] Deed Record: Book 34, page 88.
  11. [S1119] Doylestown Intelligencer, 23 Jan 1899.
  12. [S1190] 1910 U.S. census, Pottawatomie, OK, population schedule, Shawnee City, Ward 2, E.D. 221, page 7B, dwelling 7, family 7.
  13. [S1193] Daily Oklahoman, 26 Oct 1913, Volume 25, Issue 130, First Section, Page Four.

Theodore Rorer

M, #218, b. 11 July 1855, d. 15 February 1938
FatherWilliam Rorer b. 1 Jan 1816, d. 21 Jan 1899
MotherMaria Litlow b. 5 Mar 1823, d. 15 Mar 1912
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited6 May 2018
Birth*11 July 1855 Theodore Rorer was born on 11 July 1855 in Doylestown, Bucks, PA.1 
 He was the son of William Rorer and Maria Litlow. 
(with Parents) Census 18602 July 1860 He appeared on the 1860 Federal Census of New Britain Township, Bucks, PA, in the household of his parents, William and Maria.2 
(with Parents) Census 187023 August 1870 By 1870, he had moved to Lumberville, 134th District, Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA and was living with his parents.3 
Event-Misc*24 February 1874 "BURGLARY at GARDENVILLE.- The ROBBER SHOT and CAPTURED.- Sometime after midnight on Thursday morning last Andrew Swope, a clerk in the store of Gotwals & Son, at Gardenville, was aroused by a noise as if caused by some person getting into the building. Soon afterward he heard somebody in the tailor shop, in the south corner of the building. The robber was then heard to go down into the store room and light a match, then go to the outer door and unlock it. He then went back up the stairs and stopped at Swope's door and took hold of the knob. Swope by this time had prepared himself with a pistol, and was waiting for the robber to enter, but he passed on and went into the tailor shop again. Swope then left his room and called Jonas Gotwals, whose room was on the same floor, and the two went down into the store, the outside door of which was found unlocked and the money drawer open. It was now thought that the robber had left, but soon after he was again heard in the tailor shop above. The two young men then went outside to guard the store and prevent the robber's escape. They next called to their aid Daniel Gotwals, the senior proprietor, and William Rorer and his son Theodore, living near by, were also summoned and soon on the ground. Young Gotwals and Swope now went up to the door of the tailor shop, and finding that the man was still there, they returned to their companions below and the party at once proceeded to capture the burglar. William Rorer led the way, followed by Mr. Gotwals and Swope, the latter carrying a pistol in one hand and a light in the other. Young Gotwals and Theodore Rorer were stationed outside to guard the building and cut off the robber's retreat. On attempting to open the shop door it was found the man was standing against it. On being asked what he was doing there he made no reply. He was then told if he did not give himself up they would shoot, but he still remained silent. Mr. Gotwals spoke to him several times and asked him to give his name, but he refused to say anything. Swope was sent below for another light, and as he was returning with it, the report of a gun was heard on the outside of the house. It appears that as the two young men, Gotwals and Rorer, were watching on the outside of the building the burglar came out of the shop on the platform at the head of the stairs, Gotwals spoke to him two or three times and asked who was there, and receiving no reply he told Rorer, who had a gun loaded with No.4 shot, to shoot, which he did. The man then spoke for the first time, saying, "What did you shoot me for?" As soon as they heard the voice they discovered that it was a man named Henry Foyle, who for three or four months had been serving as ostler at John Price's tavern, in the village. The contents of the gun struck him in the breast, going through a heavy overcoat and his other clothing. The blood flowed pretty freely from the wound, which, however, on examination by Dr. Cooper, was found not to be dangerous. His clothing doubtless saved his life. Foyle was taken to the Bucks County Hospital, but was afterwards committed to prison. He is from Lehigh county. It is not known that he obtained anything from the store. A pair of new stockings was found outside. The act is principally chargeable to whiskey."4 
Marriage* He married Emma L. Stonemets, daughter of Howell Stonemets and Amanda Amos.1 
Census 1900*4 June 1900 Theodore and Emma appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of Canton Township, Fulton, IL, enumerated 4 June 1900. Their children Edgar, Sylvia and Ethel were listed as living with them. Theodore was a blacksmith who had been unemployed for five months. The family lived in a rented home.5 
Census 1910*23 April 1910 Theodore and Emma were living in the same town when the 1910 Federal Census was enumerated 23 April 1910. Their children Edgar and Sylvia were listed as living with them.Their daughter Ethel had died in 1905. Theodore was a blacksmith employed at a factory and was living in a rented home. The surname was spelled Rorher by the census taker.6 
(Other) Census 193014 April 1930 Although the family was not located in the 1920 census, Theodore Rorer appeared on the 1930 Federal Census of Canton Township, Fulton, IL, in the household of his son and daughter-in-law, Edgar Milton Rorer and Edith Marie Wells. Theodore's wife had died in 1925.7 
Death*15 February 1938 He died on 15 February 1938 at Limestone Township, Peoria, IL, at age 82.1 
Burial*17 February 1938 He was buried on 17 February 1938 at Greenwood Cemetery, Canton, Fulton, Il.1 

Family

Emma L. Stonemets b. 4 Aug 1858, d. 30 Sep 1924
Children

Citations

  1. [S1220] Theodore Rorer, Illinois, Deaths and Stillborns Index, 1916-1947, FHL microfilm 1818554.
  2. [S1116] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, New Britain Township, page 24, dwelling 159, family 189.
  3. [S1115] 1870 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, district 134, page 64, dwelling 522, family 515.
  4. [S1716] Bucks County Intelligencer, 24 Feb 1874, courtesy of Paul Rorer.
  5. [S1222] 1900 U.S. census, Fulton, Il, population schedule, Canton Township, Ward 4, E.D. 11, page 3A, dwelling 57, family 59.
  6. [S1223] 1910 U.S. census, Fulton, IL, population schedule, Canton Township, Ward 4, E.D. 0075, page 7B, dwelling 168, family 174.
  7. [S1221] 1930 U.S. census, Fulton, IL, population schedule, Canton Township, E.D. 29-16, page 11B, dwelling 143, family 149.

Rachel M. Larzalere

F, #229, b. circa 1830
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited6 May 2018
Birth*circa 1830 Rachel M. Larzalere was born circa 1830 in NJ or PA. In the 1860 census, her birthplace was listed as PA. In the 1870 and 1880 censuses her birthplace was listed as NJ.1,2,3 
Marriage*23 March 1851 She married Jacob Isaiah Rorer, son of Jacob Rorer and Sarah Street, on 23 March 1851 at Eleventh Street Methodist Episcopal Church, Philadelphia, PA. Both the bride and groom were from Philadelphia.4 
Deed Grantee*2 April 1860 Rachel M. Rhorer [sic], of Plumstead Township, purchased 4.5 acres for $150.00 on 2 April 1860. The land was located in Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA. The grantors, Bernard Messer and his wife, Sarah, assigned their interest in trust to Samuel Nash for the benefit of their creditors.5 
Compiler's Comment* The source of the $150 which Rachel used to buy the land is unknown. 
Deed Grantor*18 March 1861 On 18 March 1861, nine months after buying this land in Plumstead Township, Rachel and Jacob sold the 4.5 acres for $175 The grantees were Daniel Gotwals and Nathan Fretz.6 
Deed Grantee16 September 1864 A little over three years later, on 16 September 1864, Rachel purchased from Gotwals and Fretz the 4.5 acres sold to them on 18 Mar 1861. The purchase price was $175.7 
1860 Census*June 1860 She and Jacob appeared on the 1860 Federal Census of Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA enumerated June 1860. Their children Charles L., Margaret Jane and Mary Ella were listed as living with them. He was a coach driver and owned $300 worth of real property and $100 of personal property. The surname was spelled Roarer by the census taker.2 
Note* The next household enumerated was that of Margret Leiseleere, a 35 year old female.8 
Compiler's Comment This was probably a relative of Rachel Lazerlere Rorer, possibly her sister. 
Event-Misc*12 March 1867 The following ad appeared in the Bucks County Intelligencer: "ALSO, at the same time place, a quantity of HOUSEHOLD GOODS and other articles belonging to Mrs. R. M. Rorer, among which are a good army saddle and bridle, double barreled gun, stone, settee, 15 pair of chickens, pots, kettle, tubs, blankets, meat barrels, meat blocks, hoes, rakes, shovels, axes, broad axe, saws, head halters and bridles, lot lumber, chicken house, and many other articles which will positively be sold. Conditions by RACHEL M. RORER."9 
Census 1870*1870 By 1870, Rachel and Jacob were living in Ward 3, District 5 (2nd Enum), New York, NY. Their children Charles, Margaret, Mary and Harry were listed as living with them. Jacob was employed as a janitor.1 
Census 1880*2 June 1880 The family was still living in New York on W 24th Street on 2 June 1880. Their children Charles, Margaret, Mary, Ida and Harry were living with them.3 
(Witness) 1895 NJ census1895 Rachel was living in Ridgefield Township, Bergen, NJ with her sons Charles and Harry in 1895.10 
Burial*23 July 1898 She was buried on 23 July 1898 at Brookside Cemetery, 425 Engle St., Englewood, Bergen, NJ, Section East Side, plot 257, West Grave #4. Lot owner was Mrs. M.E. Hopkins, Rachel's daughter.11 
Misc*24 October 1898 A letter to Mrs. Rachel Rorer was advertised as being held in the D.C. Post office on 24 October 1898 in the Evening Star, Washington, D.C..12 
Compiler's Comment This was nine years after her husband's death in D.C. She died several months before this advertisement. 

Family

Jacob Isaiah Rorer b. 19 Apr 1827, d. 12 Nov 1890
Children

Citations

  1. [S1160] 1870 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, Ward 3, District 5 (2nd enum), page 248A. dwelling 5.
  2. [S505] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, page, 547, dwelling 321, family 321.
  3. [S1480] 1880 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, E.D. 345, page 83A, dwelling 25, family 42.
  4. [S1492] Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Church and Town Records, 1669-1999, online www.ancestry.com, (accessed 20 Jun 2017).
  5. [S1397] Deed Samuel Nash, assignee, to Rachel M. Rhorer, Book 112, page 116: FHL microfilm 859768.
  6. [S1086] Jacob I. Rorer and wife, Rachel to D. Gotwaltz & Co., Book 115, page 432.
  7. [S1502] David Gotwals and Nathan Fretz to Rachel M. Rorer, Book 152, page 385.
  8. [S1493] 1860 U.S.census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, page 42, dwelling 322, family 322.
  9. [S1661] Bucks County Intelligencer, 12 Mar 1867, courtesy of Paul Rorer.
  10. [S1466] New Jersey State Census, A.D. 1895, Ridgefield, Bergen, NJ, page 2, dwelling 6, family 9, (accessed 21 May 2017).
  11. [S1501] Brookside Cemetery, "Burial of Harrry Rorer & Others in Same Plot," e-mail to Louise Rorer Rosett, 26 Jun 2017.
  12. [S1467] Evening Star [Washington, D.C.], page 20, www.chroniclingamerica.loc.gov (accessed 21 May 2017).

Charles L. Rorer1

M, #230, b. circa 1851
FatherJacob Isaiah Rorer b. 19 Apr 1827, d. 12 Nov 1890
MotherRachel M. Larzalere b. c 1830
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited7 May 2018
Birth*circa 1851 Charles L. Rorer was born circa 1851 in PA.2,3,4 
 He was the son of Jacob Isaiah Rorer and Rachel M. Larzalere. 
(with Parents) 1860 CensusJune 1860 He appeared on the 1860 Federal Census of Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA in the household of his parents, Jacob Isaiah Rorer and Rachel M. Larzalere.2 
(with Parents) Census 18701870 By 1870, twenty year old Charles had moved to Ward 3, District 5 (2nd Enum), New York, NY with his parents. He was working as an office clerk.3 
(with Parents) Census 18802 June 1880 He was still living with his parents on 2 June 1880. The family was residing at W 24th Street, New York, NY. 28 year old Charles listed in the same occupation as his father: real estate.4 
1895 NJ census*1895 By 1895, Charles was living in Ridgefield Township, Bergen, NJ with his mother and brother Harry.5 
Burial*3 May 1902 He was buried on 3 May 1902 at Brookside Cemetery, 425 Engle Street, Englewood, Bergen, NJ, Section East Side, plot 257, West Grave #2. Lot owner was Mrs. M.E. Hopkins, his sister.1 

Citations

  1. [S1501] Brookside Cemetery, "Burial of Harrry Rorer & Others in Same Plot," e-mail to Louise Rorer Rosett, 26 Jun 2017.
  2. [S505] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, page, 547, dwelling 321, family 321.
  3. [S1160] 1870 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, Ward 3, District 5 (2nd enum), page 248A. dwelling 5.
  4. [S1480] 1880 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, E.D. 345, page 83A, dwelling 25, family 42.
  5. [S1466] New Jersey State Census, A.D. 1895, Ridgefield, Bergen, NJ, page 2, dwelling 6, family 9, (accessed 21 May 2017).

Margaret Jane Rorer

F, #231, b. circa 1855, d. 25 November 1884
FatherJacob Isaiah Rorer b. 19 Apr 1827, d. 12 Nov 1890
MotherRachel M. Larzalere b. c 1830
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited24 Mar 2018
Birth*circa 1855 Margaret Jane Rorer was born circa 1855 in Gardenville, Bucks, PA.1,2 
 She was the daughter of Jacob Isaiah Rorer and Rachel M. Larzalere. 
(with Parents) 1860 CensusJune 1860 She appeared on the 1860 Federal Census of Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA in the household of her parents, Jacob and Rachel.3 
(with Parents) Census 18701870 By 1870, she had moved with her parents to Ward 3, District 5 (2nd Enum), New York, NY.1 
(with Parents) Census 18802 June 1880 The twenty four year old was "at home" with her parents on 2 June 1880. The family was living at W 24th Street, New York, NY.4 
Marriage* Maggie Jane was married to a man surnamed Taylor prior to her death.5 
Death*25 November 1884 She died on 25 November 1884 at Manhattan, New York, NY.5 
Burial*28 November 1884 She was buried on 28 November 1884 at Manhattan, New York, NY.5 

Family

(?) Taylor

Citations

  1. [S1160] 1870 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, Ward 3, District 5 (2nd enum), page 248A. dwelling 5.
  2. [S1468] New York, New York City Municipal Deaths, 1795-1949, online www.familysearch.com.
  3. [S505] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, page, 547, dwelling 321, family 321.
  4. [S1480] 1880 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, E.D. 345, page 83A, dwelling 25, family 42.
  5. [S1468] New York, New York City Municipal Deaths, 1795-1949, online www.familysearch.com, (accessed 22 May 2017).

Mary Ella Rorer1

F, #232, b. April 1857
FatherJacob Isaiah Rorer b. 19 Apr 1827, d. 12 Nov 1890
MotherRachel M. Larzalere b. c 1830
ChartsDescendant Chart (Box)
Descendant Chart (Indented)
Last Edited6 May 2018
Birth*April 1857 Mary Ella Rorer was born in April 1857 in Gardenville, Bucks, PA.2,1,3 
 She was the daughter of Jacob Isaiah Rorer and Rachel M. Larzalere. 
(with Parents) 1860 CensusJune 1860 She appeared on the 1860 Federal Census of Plumstead Township, Bucks, PA in the household of her parents, Jacob and Rachel.4 
(with Parents) Census 18701870 By 1870, she had moved to Ward 3, District 5 (2nd Enum), New York, NY with her parents.2 
Compiler's Comment* She was listed as fifteen years old, the same age as sister Maggie. This is obviously an error since she was three years old in 1860 while her sister, Maggie, was five years old. 
(with Parents) Census 18802 June 1880 Twenty two year old Mary was "at home" at W 24th Street, New York, NY on 2 June 1880.5 
Marriage*3 January 1887 She married Benjamin Hopkins, son of Francis Charles Hopkins and Mary Ann Burton, on 3 January 1887 at New York, NY. Mary's mother's name was listed as Rachel M. Larrelere or Larzclere.6 
Census 1900*11 June 1900 Thirteen years after her marriage, Mary Hopkins appeared on the 1900 Federal Census of Grand Avenue, Borough of Leonia, Ridgefield Township, Bergen, NJ, as a widow. Her eleven year old son, HAROLD BENJAMIN, was living with her. Mary was fortunate to have marketable skills and was working as a stenographer. Mary's aunt, Margaret A. Lazerlere was living with them. Margaret had been born Oct. 1824 in New Jersey and was probably helping Mary with child care.3 
Census 1910*15 April 1910 Mary continued to support herself and her son working as a legal secretary. She and Harold lived as boarders in a house on Christer Street, Leonia, Bergen, NJ on 15 April 1910.7 
Census 1920*5 January 1920 By 5 January 1920, the 62 year old widow was renting a home where her son, Harold and a boarder, Laura Gil, lived. Mary was working as a secretary for a lawyer.8 
(Other) Census 19303 April 1930 Mary lived in the household of Harold Benjamin Hopkins, her son and his wife Esther at 30 Glenwood Avenue, Leonia, Bergen, NJ on 3 April 1930.9 
Burial*7 May 1938 She was buried on 7 May 1938 at Brookside Cemetery, 425 Engle Street, Englewood, Bergen, NJ, Section East Side, plot 257, West Grave #3 with her husband. She was the lot owner.10 

Family

Benjamin Hopkins b. c 1853, d. 17 Dec 1895
Child

Citations

  1. [S1476] New York, New York City Marriage Records, 1829-1940, online www.familysearch.org, (accessed 17 Jun 2017).
  2. [S1160] 1870 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, Ward 3, District 5 (2nd enum), page 248A. dwelling 5.
  3. [S1479] 1900 U.S. census, Bergen, NJ, population schedule, Ridgefield Township, Borough of Leonia, E.D. 15, page 76B, dwelling 49, family 54.
  4. [S505] 1860 U.S. census, Bucks, PA, population schedule, Plumstead Township, page, 547, dwelling 321, family 321.
  5. [S1480] 1880 U.S. census, New York, NY, population schedule, New York, E.D. 345, page 83A, dwelling 25, family 42.
  6. [S1476] New York, New York City Marriage Records, 1829-1940, online www.familysearch.org, (accessed 17 Jun 2017), FHL film 1671683.
  7. [S1483] 1910 U.S. census, Bergen, NJ, population schedule, Leonia, E.D. 29, page 18A, dwelling 53, family 57.
  8. [S1482] 1920 U.S. census, Bergen, NJ, population schedule, Leonia, E.D. 57, page 5B, dwelling 109, family 121.
  9. [S1485] 1930 U.S. census, Bergen, NJ, population schedule, Leonia, E.D. 2-136, page 32A, dwelling 32, family 32.
  10. [S1501] Brookside Cemetery, "Burial of Harrry Rorer & Others in Same Plot," e-mail to Louise Rorer Rosett, 26 Jun 2017.