Descendants of William SPALDING
Notes
Birth: OPR William SPALDING (M).................. C: 14 Nov 1814 Ba: C112795 +
Father: William SPALDING Coupar Angus, Angus, Scotland So: 993417
Mother: Jean ANDERSONBaptism: 14 November 1814, William Spalding farmer Balbrogie and Jean Anderson had a lawful child baptised called William. - FHL 993417
Marriage: OPR Jane SPALDING (F)..................... M: 25 Dec 1848 Ba: M112796
Spouse: William SPALDING Coupar Angus, Angus, Scotland So: 993417Jane SPALDING (F)..................... M: 24 Dec 1848 Ba: M113355
Spouse: William SPALDING Blairgowrie, Perth, Scotland So: 993522 Pr: 6900652Marriage: 25 December 1848, William Spalding Merchant of Blairgowrie and Jane Spalding of this Parish (Coupar Angus). One Sunday. FHL 993417
The IGI reference to William's marriage to Jane has William's parents as John Spalding and May Meek Johnston but the 1851 census has William born in Coupar Angus. The IGI is not correct.
William was the informant of his Aunty Cecilia's death registration.
In 1879 William was elected to the Rattray school board.
William's death registration of 1901 lists both his wives as: 1st Jean Spalding, 2nd Margaret Liddell. His parents are listed as William Spalding and Jean Anderson.
Burial: Coupar Angus Monumental Inscription - 1854 by William Spalding merchant of Blairgowrie in memory of his wife Jane Spalding 13 August 1853 aged 36 and son William 11 April 1851 aged 17 months.
OPR: Andrew SPALDING (M)................... C: 11 Sep 1853 Ba: C113355
Father: William SPALDING Blairgowrie, Perth, Scotland FR1151 So: 993522
Mother: Jane SPALDINGA picture of Thomas Spalding was sent to General George Spalding located in Monroe, MI by Andrew Spalding in Blairgowrie, Scotland. It is believed that the author was Andrew Spalding who was born 1853 in Blaigrowrie.
Andrew appears to have travelled to New York on at least two occasions. He is not found in the Scotland census of 1881 and 1891:
Andrew Spalding, "gentleman", aged 22 (est dob 1854), arrived New York 2 August 1876 on board the ship "State of Indiana".
Andrew Spalding born about 1854, age 38, departed New York, New York, United States and arrived 20 Aug 1892 at Liverpool, England via Queenstown on the Umbria.
Andrew Spalding, farmer, aged 52 (est dob 1854), male and single, arrived New York 27 June 1906 on board "Carmania" with details recorded as: paid own fare, in possession of 500 pounds, born Blairgowrie Scotland, travelled to New York before 1887(unclear), on a pleasure tour and then to return to Scotland, a non immigrant.
According to Marjory Harper in her book "Emigration from Scotland Between the Wars" - Manchester University Press 1998,
Andrew Spalding of Blairgowrie was a booking agent who was used by Canadian recruiters to seek emigrants from Scotland. Andrew would most likely have given lectures, put up posters, organised meetings and used school packs to encourage Scotts to migrate to Canada. He would have liaised with Canadian employment registries and even chaperoned parties of emigrants. Andrew was an ex-provost of Blairgowrie. He was described as one of the most active agents who had a good knowledge of Canada. A Toronto newspaper in an article on 9 May 1914 suggested Andrew Spalding "was an immigration agent who should be in jail".The picture of Andrew Spalding in uniform during WW1 is understood to be the author of the notes on the reverse of Thomas Spalding's photograph. The Spalding Recruiting Agency Photo in Blairgowrie, Scotland also shows Andrew Spalding. The date on the reverse of the picture it is December 1917. This is confirmed by Andrew's death record where he is listed as a retired shipping agent.
These pictures were among General George Spalding's papers that survived and that Shirley Langerman entrusted to Dean Spalding.
Death: UK GRO 1933 Andrew Spalding M 80 Menmuir Angus 309/00 0005. The death registration records his occupation as shipping agent and his parents as William Spalding and Jane Spalding. The informant was his half brother W L Spalding.
Death: Scotland GRO 1927 Margaret Spalding (Liddell) F 92 Menmuir Angus 309/00 0001
Death: Scotlandd GRO 1917 Margaret Liddell Spalding, 44, Menmuir Angus, 309/00 0005
Thomas is recorded as William Spalding's, born 1821, brother on William's death certificate in 1876. Thomas's will records himself as a grocer.
Thomas Spalding married Janet Downs, and Thomas' younger sister Lillias Spalding married (second marriage) James Downs who was the youngest brother of Janet Downs.
A picture of Thomas Spalding was sent to General George Spalding located in Monroe, MI by Andrew Spalding in Blairgowrie, Scotland. This picture was among General Spalding's papers that survived and that Shirley Langerman entrusted to Dean Spalding. The family information on the reverse of the picture clearly link Thomas Spalding, grocer of Larkhall to General George Spalding as cousins.
Text from the reverse of a photo of Thomas Spalding b1819 Larkhall, d1899 Larkhall.
"This is a photograph of Thomas Spalding who was a successful Grocer at Larkhall Lanarkshire Scotland & who died early in the nineties. He was a son of Peter Spalding who was a brother of Andrew Spalding the Father of General Spalding. Said Thomas Spalding was therefore a full cousin of General George Spalding. He has one daughter alive and 2 grandchildren - girls. He was a very religious man and highly respected in his town. I saw him often & know his family.Signed
Andrew Spalding
Blairgowrie
December 1906"From death certificate 1899 638-1 121
Thomas Spalding (80) retired grocer, died 16 Aug. 1899 at 107 Raploch St. Larkhall, widower of Janet Downs. parents Peter Spalding (dec) coal miner and Mary Thomson (dec). Informant Jas. McLeod, grandson, 5 Gladstone Terrace, PaisleyFrom Scottish wills web site:
Spalding Thomas 24/1/1900 senior, Grocer, 107 Raploch Street, Larkhall, d. 13/08/1899 at Larkhall, testate Hamilton Sheriff Court.
Spalding Thomas 28/5/1901 senior, Grocer, residing at 107 Raploch Street, Larkhall, d. 13/08/1899 at Larkhall, testate Hamilton Sheriff Court.Will: Thomas Spalding senior, grocer of 107 Raploch Street, Larkhall died at Larkhall 13 August 1899 (sic). His estate included the estate of the late John Downs, weaver of Larkhall. That estate matured on the death of Mrs Marion Scott or Downs, widow of the above John Downs. Mrs Downs died on 15 September 1899. Thomas Spalding acquired this estate as the heir of his wife. The executor Reverend Alexander Borland, minister of Trinity United Free Church, Larkhall confirmed the death before William Cunningham, esq Justice of the Peace of Lanarkshire.
Dalserf Parish Records: Baptism Janet and Jean twin daughters of Robert Downs and Mary Shearer spouses Larkhall born on 20th and baptised 28 October 1819. FHL - 1066587
Assumed that she died before 1861 as she was not found in the 1861 census.
Possible Death: Scotland GRO 1859 SPALDING MARY F - LARKHALL LANARK 638/01 0053
She is not in the 1861 census.
Possible Death - UK GRO 1864 Robert Spalding M U Larkhall Lanark 638/01 0103
Marriage: Scotland GRO 1894 ALSTON THOMAS SPALDING JANE LARKHALL LANARK 638/01 0061
See notes on her father Thomas. According to Andrew Spalding in 1906 Jane was the only daughter still alive.
Marriage: UK GRO 1894 ALSTON THOMAS SPALDING JANE LARKHALL LANARK 638/01 0061
Possible Death
UK GRO Death 1860 William Spalding M U Larkhall Lanark 638/01 0057There is a Corporal William Spalding on the Larkhall War Memorial for first world war.
The Commonwealth war graves site shows
WILLIAM SPALDING
Lance Corporal
38309
8th Bn., King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry
who died on
Sunday 1 October 1916 .It's unknown if this is William.
Death record index GRO 638/01 0075 - John Spalding aged 1 died 1863 Mother's surname Downs
William was born about 1821 in Larkhall (parish of Dalserf). In the 1841 census William a coal miner was living with his parents at London Street, Larkhall. He subsequently became an aerated water manufacturer and bottler. In 1859 he was recorded as a widower of Townhead Street, Hamilton, occupation aerated water manufacturer and bottler. He was also described as a bottler in his death certificate. In Mary Spalding's (b1863) birth certificate he was described as a spirit dealer. In his son William's death certificate William was described as a Hotel Proprietor.
William married Helen Cunningham around 1845. They had twin children William and Helen born in 1846. It is possible that Helen Cunningham died at birth or not long after the twins. Neither William or Helen (presumably deceased) have been found in the 1851 census and the twin children William and Helen are living with their grandparents. In 1859 William had an illegitimate son, Andrew to Margaret Phail, in Dalserf. This child only survived 5 months.
On 17 May 1859, William, aged 38, of 42 Townshead Street, Hamilton, a Bottler and widow married Mary Neilson, of 44 Church Street, Hamilton. She was 24 years old, a domestic servant and spinster. William's parents were Peter Spalding, labourer and Mary Thomson. Mary's parents were William Neilson, contractor, and Jane Horne. The witnesses were Alexander Thomson and Alexander Muir.
William stayed in Hamilton and had at least eight more children. His first two children from his first marriage stayed in Dalserf with their Spalding grandparents until at least 1861. In the 1861 census William and Mary and family were living at Townhead Street, Hamilton as a bottler. In 1871 they were living in Blackinell Lane, Hamilton as an aeroated water manufacturer and bottler.
According to his daughter, Helen's, death certificate William and Helen Cunningham were married. William was also listed as a widower when he married Mary Neilson in 1859. In William's death certificate his brother Thomas reports that he was married to Mary Neilson and formerly to Mary (sic) Cuningham.
Glasgow Herald - Monday 1 May 1871
HAMILTON - Alleged Assault on a wife. - At the same diet, Wm. Spalding, bottler, Hamilton, was charged with an aggravated assault committed upon his wife in their own house, by striking her with his fists, knocking her down, and kicking her on the head and face to the great effusion of blood and serious injury. Mr Archibald, writer, Hamilton, conducted the defence. The jury, after a quarter of an hour's deliberation, returned a verdict of not proven.Glasgow Herald - 5 October 1871
Alarming fire at Hamilton - a house sublet to William Spalding, bottler who used it for storing hay was burnt with a loss of 100 pounds.Death: Scotland GRO 1876 SPALDING WILLIAM M aged 56, LARKHALL LANARK 638/01 0138
William died of congested lungs on 12 December 1876.Will Reference
Spalding William 01/03/1877 Bottler, Hamilton, d. 12/12/1876 at Larkhall, testate Inventory Glasgow Sheriff Court Inventories SC36/48/81Will: William Spalding, bottler in Hamilton died at Larkhall 12 December 1876. The executors were Thomas Spalding, grocer in Larkhall, George Spalding, grocer and Hugh Maxwell, miner Carfin, Motherwell. Stated before Thomas Duncan JP Lanarkshire. The will mentions his wife Mary Neilson (or Spalding) and children Andrew, John, Thomas and Alexander. (Note: William had no recorded child called John but did have son Peter who was not mentioned. This could have been a transcription error or Peter could also have gone by the name John)
It is interesting to note that three of William's children migrated to Australia:
Peter Spalding migrated to Queensland in about 1874.
William and Ann Spalding and family migrated to Sydney in 1883.
Thomas and Christina Spalding and family migrated to Sydney in 1924.
Helen apparently died between 1846 and 1859 (when her husband remarried). William was listed as a widower in 1859 when he married Mary Neilson. Helen possibly died between 1846 and 1851 as the children, William(b1846) and Helen(b1846),twins, were living with their grandparents at the 1851 census. William (b1846) was still with his grandparents at the 1861 census.
Helen is variously recorded as:
- Elorn Cimun - on son William(b1846)'s marriage certificate in 1866
- Mary Cuningham - on husband William (b1821)'s death certificate in 1876 by his brother Thomas(b 1819)
- Helen Cuningham - on daughter Helen(b1846)'s marriage certificate in 1868
- Helen Cunningham - on daughter Helen(b1846)'s death certificate in 1881 as recorded by Helen's husband
- Ellen Cunningham - on son William's (b1846) death certificate in 1913 as recorded by a grandson.Because Helen most likely died when the children were very young it is not surprising that they did not remember her name correctly.
The Cunningham family is of Scottish origin and dates from the notable Cunningham Castle in Ayrshire, Scotland in the year 1150 A. D. which is located on the banks of the Garnock two miles north of Kilberney, Scotland. The family has been prominent in Scotland since the 12th century and has sent off members into England which have been prominent in that country for several centuries. Every branch of the Cunningham family, whatever spelling they use, has adopted or accepted the original Coat-of-arms of the "Shake fork" and nearly all of them use the original motto. A few, however, have added other mottoes and here and there make some additions to the old Coat-of-arms, but none had dispensed with the "Shake fork" which is strong confirmatory evidence of the old tradition as to how the family name was obtained.
The family had risen to great prominence in Scotland by the thirteenth century and in the latter years of that century when the Scots under Wallace rose against the tyranny of Edward the First.
On Andrew Spalding's birth registration in 1859, he was listed as illegitimate and his mother was given as Margaret Phail. On Andrew's death registration in 1860 his mother was listed as Margaret Moncrieff. In both cases the father was William Spalding, Bottler or Aerated water manufacturer.
Andrew was William Spalding's (b1821) illegitimate son. On his birth registration his mother is listed as Margaret Phail. On his death registration she is listed as Margaret Moncrieff. In both cases the father is William Spalding, Bottler or Aerated water manufacturer.
Mary was a domestic servant. Her surname is variously spelt Nelson and Neilson.
Death: Scotland Records 1866 Jane Spalding, aged 5 (b1861), in Hamilton 647/00 0238.
Death: Scotland Records 1867 Mary Spalding, aged 4 (b1863), in Hamilton 647/00 0317.
George was a grocer as referenced in his brother William's will.
Will Reference:
Spalding George 03/02/1899 Portioner, 78 Wellgate Street, Larkhall, d. 14/05/1898 at Larkhall, testate Hamilton Sheriff Court SC37/42/14Will: George Spalding portioner of 78 Wellgate Street, Larkhall died 14 May 1899 Larkhall. The executors were John Barrie, writer, Larkhall, Thomas Spalding, grocer Wellgate Street Larkhall and John Clements, Spirit Merchant Church Street Larkhall. They were to make provision to George Spalding's wife Marion Cairns or Spalding and to his children.
Marriage: Scotland GRO 1876 MITCHELL JAMES SPALDING MARION LARKHALL LANARK 638/01 0021
Marriage: Scotland GRO 1883 PARKER THOMAS SPALDING MARGARET LARKHALL LANARK 638/01 0033
George possibly went to New York in 1891 ie
SPALDING Geo, born 1864, M, departed 1891 Glasgow, to USA New York
Mary Spalding with her husband Alexander Muir and family migrated to Queensland Australia departing Plymouth on 2 August 1862 and arriving on 1 November 1862 on board the "Sultana". The record (IMM/112 page 156 Z1957 M1696) shows:
Alex Muir aged 38
Mary Muir 36
Janet Muir 12
Alexander Muir 11
Mary Muir 9
Peter Muir 4
William Muir 3
Andrew Muir 1Marriage: Gympie Times (Queensland, Australia) 11 February 1871. MARRIAGE - On 7 February, by the Rev Alex Caldwell, Mr John Scott of Gympie, formally of Dundee, Scotland, to Mrs Muir relick of Alexander Muir of Gympie, and daughter of Mr Peter Spalding, of Larkhall, Lanarkshire Scotland.
Death: QLD BDM 1906/B7149 Scott Mary, Peter Spalding, Mary Thompson
Note that Alexander Muir was a witness at the William Spalding and Mary Neilson wedding in 1859.
Alexander Muir his wife Mary Spalding and family migrated to Queensland Australia departing Plymouth on 2 August 1862 and arriving on 1 November 1862 on board the "Sultana". The record (IMM/112 page 156 Z1957 M1696) shows:
Alex Muir aged 38
Mary Muir 36
Janet Muir 12
Alexander Muir 11
Mary Muir 9
Peter Muir 4
William Muir 3
Andrew Muir 1Death: QLD BDM 1869/C769 Muir Alexander Alexander Muir Janet Black
Alexander Muir and family migrated to Queensland Australia departing Plymouth on 2 August 1862 and arriving on 1 November 1862 on board the "Sultana". The record (IMM/112 page 156 Z1957 M1696) shows:
Alex Muir aged 38
Mary Muir 36
Janet Muir 12
Alexander Muir 11
Mary Muir 9
Peter Muir 4
William Muir 3
Andrew Muir 1Death: QLD BDM 1923/B40287 Muir Alexander, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
Mary Muir and family migrated to Queensland Australia departing Plymouth on 2 August 1862 and arriving on 1 November 1862 on board the "Sultana". The record (IMM/112 page 156 Z1957 M1696) shows:
Alex Muir aged 38
Mary Muir 36
Janet Muir 12
Alexander Muir 11
Mary Muir 9
Peter Muir 4
William Muir 3
Andrew Muir 1
Peter Muir and family migrated to Queensland Australia departing Plymouth on 2 August 1862 and arriving on 1 November 1862 on board the "Sultana". The record (IMM/112 page 156 Z1957 M1696) shows:
Alex Muir aged 38
Mary Muir 36
Janet Muir 12
Alexander Muir 11
Mary Muir 9
Peter Muir 4
William Muir 3
Andrew Muir 1Death: QLD BDM 1878/C1217 Muir Peter, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
William Muir and family migrated to Queensland Australia departing Plymouth on 2 August 1862 and arriving on 1 November 1862 on board the "Sultana". The record (IMM/112 page 156 Z1957 M1696) shows:
Alex Muir aged 38
Mary Muir 36
Janet Muir 12
Alexander Muir 11
Mary Muir 9
Peter Muir 4
William Muir 3
Andrew Muir 1Death: QLD BDM 1928/C3530 Muir William, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
Andrew Muir and family migrated to Queensland Australia departing Plymouth on 2 August 1862 and arriving on 1 November 1862 on board the "Sultana". The record (IMM/112 page 156 Z1957 M1696) shows:
Alex Muir aged 38
Mary Muir 36
Janet Muir 12
Alexander Muir 11
Mary Muir 9
Peter Muir 4
William Muir 3
Andrew Muir 1Death: QLD BDM 1863/B1090 Muir Andrew, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
Birth: QLD BDM 1864/B2417 Muir Andrew, Alexander, Mary Spalding
Death: QLD BDM 1879/C951 Muir Andrew, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
Birth: QLD BDM 1865/B4275 Muir Martha, Alexander, Mary Sparling
Death: QLD BDM 1917/B25054 Muir Matthew, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
Birth: QLD BDM 1867/B7176 Muir Lilly Alexander Martha Sparling
Death: QLD BDM 1868/C680 Muir Lily, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
Birth: QLD BDM 1870/C1777 Muir Thomas, Alexander, Mary Spalding
Death: QLD BDM 1914/B19626 Muir Thomas, Alexander Muir, Mary Spalding
Birth: QLD BDM 1872/C681 Scott Elizabeth, John, Mary Spalding
Death: QLD BDM 1874/C398 Scott Elizabeth, John Scott, Mary Spalding ** late Muir
From Dean Spalding's website:
Obituary:
Monroe Record
March 10, 1904
MRS. JOSEPH VIVIANMrs. Joseph Vivian aged 79 years died at her home in the Second ward after a long illness on Friday, March 4th. Miss Isabelle Spalding was born in Perthshire, Scotland, Jan. 1st 1825, and was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Spalding. After being educated in her native country she came to America in 1843 and at Buffalo, N.Y. on Jan. 1, 1846 she was united in marriage to Capt. Joseph Vivian, a sailor on the Great Lakes. At Buffalo four children were born to them, they are Mrs. Mary Wilson of Toledo, William and Andrew of this city and Hume of Monroetown. In 1853 Captain Vivian moved to this county and settled in Frenchtown where another daughter Josephine was born. On Oct. 28, 1855 the father died and the family gradually became scattered. Mrs. Vivian has been declining in health for the past six years and during the past year she has been totally blind. She leaves a brother, Gen. George Spalding of this city and the children named above. Deceased was well known in the city and county and had a host of friends. For many years she was matron at the county house and her ever watchful patience and care over the unfortunates of the county was one of her beautiful traits of character. The funeral services were held from the residence Monday afternoon at three o'clock, Rev. A. W. Allen of the Presbyterian church officiating.
Note:
1850 Census: July 22, 1850 - Buffalo Ward 1, Erie, NY - age 24
1860 Census: July 10, 1860 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 423, page 119 - age 36
1870 Census: August 8, 1870 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 307, page 39 - age 46
1880 Census: June 12, 1880 - Monroe, Monroe, Michigan - ED 183, Page 21 - age 55, with son
In the same dwelling as Andrew Spalding in the 1850 Census of Buffalo, are living a probable daughter, Isabel, age 24, b. Scot. and her husband Joseph Vivian b. England. They have two children, Margaret, age 3, and William, age 1 (both b. NY). A number of other persons are also living in this place, but it is not possible to say which ones, except for Isabel, are related to the Spaldings.
1850 Census: July 22, 1850 - Buffalo Ward 1, Erie, NY - age 40, living with father-in-law
He was a Captain in Navy on the Great Lakes. He in 1853 moved to Monroe County, MI, settled in Frenchtown, MI. Died in a gale on the Great Lakes, Saturday, Oct. 28, 1855
From Dean Spalding's website:
Obituary:
Monroe Commercial
Thursday, Nov. 1, 1855
SEVERE GALE -- LOSS OF LIFE
The gale on Saturday night last was very severe, and we shall probably hear of many disasters. We have, regret to say, intelligence that the Schooner Buckingham was wrecked, and is ashore at or near Fairport, and that the Captain, Mr. Vivian, was unfortunately drowned. Mr. V. was a resident of Frenchtown, in this county, where he recently purchased a farm and was erecting a dwelling. He leaves a wife and several small children. The body of Capt. Vivian arrived here this morning. Funeral tomorrow at 10 o'clock A.M. from his place of residence.
In the same dwelling as Andrew Spalding in the 1850 Census of Buffalo, are living a probable daughter, Isabel, age 24, b. Scot. and her husband Joseph b. England. They have two children, Margaret, age 3, and William, age 1 (both b. NY). A number of other persons are also living in this place, but it is not possible to say which ones, except for Isabel, are related to the Spaldings.
At Buffalo four children were born to Joseph and Isabelle, they are Mrs. Mary Wilson of Toledo, William and Andrew of this city and Hume of Monroetown. In 1853 Captain Vivian moved to this county and settled in Frenchtown where another daughter Josephine was born.
1850 Census: July 22, 1850 - Buffalo Ward 1, Erie, NY - age 3
1860 Census: July 10, 1860 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 423, page 119 - age 13
1870 Census: August 8, 1870 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 307, page 39 - age 23
Ref: Dean Spalding's website:
The Record-Commercial
Friday, October 6, 1916Andrew Vivian, about 65 years old, life-long resident of this county, a prominent Knight Templar and for many years in charge of the Monroe Butter & Creamery Company, died Wednesday night at 9:45 o'clock, following a stroke of paralysis. He leaves a widow, formerly Clara C. Custer, niece of Gen. George Armstrong Custer.
The Record-Commercial
Thursday, October 12, 1916
MASONIC SERVICES FOR ANDREW VIVIANThe sudden death of Andrew Vivian, which was briefly noted in the Record-Commercial last week, has removed from Monroe city and county a prominent figure in business life, a sturdy and energetic citizen with great executive ability, who made a host of friends, and from Masonic circles one of the most earnest and hard working members of the fraternity.
He was born in Buffalo, N.Y., on March 27, 1851, the son of Joseph and Isabella Vivian, who removed to Monroe when Andrew was about two years old and settled on a farm west of the city, where their useful lives were spent and where they died a number of years ago with the respect of all who knew them. Andrew grew up to be a strong, sturdy farmer lad of more than ordinary intelligence, industrious and active, and a leader among his followers. His executive ability became well known, and when a comparatively young man he was placed in charge of the Monroe County Farm, which under his management became one of the best farms in stocks, crops, care of buildings and management in the county of Monroe and his methods were frequently sought by superintendents from other places, despite changing board of supervisors and superintendents of the poor, so able was his career that he continued in his position for 18 years consecutively.
When the Monroe Butter & Cheese Factory was organized he became interested in its success and was appointed to its superintendency. He assumed his new duties with the same energy which characterized his work. He made and continued the enterprise a manufacturing and financial success, and at one time so great was the fame of his product that the butter used at the White House in Washington was made in Monroe by Mr. Vivian. His connection with this business continued for nearly twenty years and until about four months since, when ailing health compelled him to relinquish the charge into other hands, which had been trained by him. The cause of his death was a cerebral hemorrhage from which he never regained consciousness.
Nearly forty years ago he joined the Masonic Fraternity and with his accustomed energy at once set about making himself proficient in the work. He was an earnest and enthusiastic Mason and became a member of the Chapter of Royal Arch Masons and the Commandery of Knights Templar in the business of all of which he took an active part. For many years one of the responsible positions in the floor work of the Masonic lodge was assigned to him and he was always present to carry out his part. In like manner one of the most difficult offices in the chapter he was elected to year after year and faithfully performed its difficult and exacting part. In the Commandery he was likewise an active and earnest member. He was married January 21, 1905, to Miss Clara Custer, daughter of Nevin Custer, and niece of Gen. Geo. Armstrong Custer, who survives him. He is also survived by two brothers and two sisters, Miss Josephine Vivian of this city, Mrs. Margaret Wilson of Toledo, William and Hume Vivian of this city.
Funeral services were held under Masonic auspices from his late home, 223 South Washington Street, Saturday afternoon. Revs. Frank Knowles and F. Lendrum officiating. A guard of Knights Templar accompanied the body to Woodland cemetery and Masonic ceremonies were observed at the grave.
1860 Census: July 10, 1860 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 423, page 119 - age 9
1870 Census: August 8, 1870 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 307, page 39 - age 19
1880 Census: June 12, 1880 - Monroe, Monroe, Michigan - ED 183, Page 21 - age 29 Occupation: 1880 Supt Of Poor House
1910 Census: Monroe, MI - age 59 Occupation: 1910 Manger in Creamery
From Dean Spalding's website:
Monroe Evening News
Monday, July 10, 1950
Gen. Custer's Niece,
Mrs. Vivian, Dies
In Brother's HomeMrs. Claribel Vivian, 86, of 223 Washington St., niece of Gen. George Armstrong Custer, died at 5:20 p.m. yesterday in the home of her brother, James C. Custer, of 3029 North Custer Rd. She had been in poor health since last December and in a serious condition since April.
The body is at Earle Little funeral home where services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday. The Rev. Harry T. Howard, D.D., of St. Paul's Methodist Church will officiate and burial will be in Woodland Cemetery.
The oldest of seven children of Mr. and Mrs. Nevin Custer, she was born Sept. 5, 1863, at New Rumley, Ohio, and came to Monroe with the family at an early age. She was married to Andrew Vivian Jan. 21, 1905, at Monroe and he preceded her in death Oct. 4, 1916.
She was a member of St. Paul's Methodist Church and active in many of its organizations. A familiar figure at most functions of the church and always interested in persons and events, she was an active member of Monroe Chapter 226, Order of the Eastern Star.
Mrs. Vivian is survived by her brother, two nieces, Miss Margaret and Miss Miriam Custer of the North Custer Rd. residence; two nephews, Lt. Col. Brice C.W. Custer of Billings, Mont., and Maj. Charles at Heidelberg, Germany; four grandnephews, Lt. George Custer, soon to leave for Italy, Brice C. W. jr., Richard and Thomas, and two grandnieces, Dacia and Elizabeth.
From Dean Spalding's website:
Monroe Evening News
Monday, July 7, 1942
Josephine Vivian Dies at Age of 86Miss Josephine Vivian, aged 86 years, died in the Convalescent Home on Cass street at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, where she had been confined since December 29, 1941. The direct cause of her death was old age. Miss Vivian was born in Frenchtown September 15, 1855, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Vivian, pioneer settlers of that township.
Her father in the early days was the owner and captain of a freight steamer that hauled wheat from Duluth to Buffalo. Miss Vivian was a practical nurse here for many years, retiring 15 years ago. She was a charter member of Monroe Chapter No. 226, Eastern Star, and a member of the First Presbyterian Church. She leaves two nephews, Edward Vivian of Monroe and Leslie Vivian, radio instructor at the Naval aviation training in San Diego, California.
Services will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Earle Little home on East Elm avenue. The Rev. Wilfred E. Simpson of the Presbyterian Church will officiate and burial will be in Woodland cemetery.
1860 Census: July 10, 1860 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 423, page 119 - age 4
1870 Census: August 8, 1870 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 307, page 39 - age 15
1880 Census: June 12, 1880 - Monroe, Monroe, Michigan - ED 183, Page 21 - age 25 Assistant Matron in Poor House
From Dean Spalding's website:
Petersburg Sun
June 7, 1918
Obituary
WILLIAM SPALDING
Death again invaded the ranks of our older residents when on Thursday, May 29, our townsman, William Spalding, was called to his reward. The summons came on his 89th birthday, he first seeing the light of day at May's Ridge, Perthshire, Scotland, May 29, 1829. He came with his father's family to Buffalo, N.Y., in 1842. There he learned the trade of a carpenter and cabinet maker, and continued in this occupation so long as health would permit. In 1858 he came to Monroe and in 1871 settled in Petersburg, where the remaining years of his long life were spent, He held the position of postmaster here for eight years.He was united in marriage at Buffalo Sept. 30, 1856, to Miss Susan Burch, and to this union were born nine children-- five sons and four daughters. Seven of these survive him: Isabella Spalding, of Petersburg; Henry, of Monroe; George, of Richmond, Ind.; Albert, of Stewartsville, Mo.; Andrew, of Adrian; Mrs. Bert Ward, of Clayton and Mrs. Frank Kull, of Monroe. There are also 23 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Mrs. Spalding passed away May 9, 1914.
Funeral was conducted by Rev. Sherman at the Presbyterian church at 1:30 Saturday afternoon. All of the surviving members of the family were present, also Mrs. Geo. Spalding, Miss Josephine Vivian and Stewart Spalding, of Monroe; Mr. and Mrs. Amos Kells, Mrs. A. Kinear and Mrs. John Ennis, of Adrian; and a large number of the old friends and neighbours.
William and his wife Susan, along with their daughter Isabelle are buried on one side of the Spalding family monument in Pleaseantview Cemetery in Petersburg, Michigan. On the other side of the monument are buried William's brother, Andrew Spalding and Andrew's wife Annie, together with their son J. Stewart Spalding and his wife Aristine.
1850 Census: July 22, 1850 - Buffalo Ward 1, Erie, NY - age 21
1870 Census: August 8, 1870 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 307, page 39 - age 39 Farmer
1880 Census: Petersburg, Monroe, MI - age 51 CarpenterDeath: William Spalding died June 1, 1918 at 89 years. Source: “new” Petersburg cemetery in Summerfield.
The following census results relate to Susan's family. In 1841 she is obviously staying with her mother's relatives.
1851 Census St John Glastonbury Somerset England
36 High Street
William Burch Head M 47 Watch or Clock Maker Somerset Shapwick
Elizabeth Burch Wife M 39 Watch or Clock Maker Wife Somerset Meare
Susan Burch Daur U 17 Dress Maker Somerset Glastonbury
John W Burch Son 13 Scholar Somerset Glastonbury
Henry Burch Son 11 Scholar Somerset Glastonbury
George Burch Son 8 Scholar Somerset Glastonbury
Albert Burch Son 6 Scholar Somerset Glastonbury
Charlotte Burch Daughter 4 Scholar Somerset Glastonbury
Elizabeth Burch Daur 6mth Somerset Glastonbury1841 Census Parishes of St John & St Benedict Glastonbury Somerset England
High Street
William Burch 35 Watch maker Y
Elizabeth Burch 25 Y
John Burch 3 Y
Henry Burch 2 Y
Sarah Humphrey 12 FS Y1841 Census Parish of Meare Somerset England
Meare Street
John Giblet Cox 45 Farmer Y
Elizabeth Cox 60 Y
Eliza Smart 17 FS Y
Susan Burch 7 YFrom Dean Spalding's website:
Petersburg Sun
Friday, May 15, 1914AN AGED RESIDENT DEAD
Our highly esteemed townslady, Mrs. Wm. Spalding, who had been in feeble health for some time, and in a critical condition for the past few weeks, entered into the eternal sleep last Saturday afternoon, May 9, 1914, aged 80 years, 8 months and 26 days.
Mrs. Spalding, whose maiden name was Susan Burch, was born in Glastonbury, England, Aug. 13, 1833. At the age of 20 she emigrated to America, first settling in Buffalo, N.Y., where three years later (Sept. 30, 1856) she became the wife of her now bereaved husband, Wm. Spalding. They came to Michigan in 1858, first stopping in Monroe, where they resided until 1871, since which time Petersburg has been their home. Mrs. Spalding was of a quiet, unassuming nature, a great lover of home and all a home signifies; unselfish, charitable, a peacemaker--one of those kindhearted ladies that the younger generation can well emulate. She was the mother of nine children, seven of whom are now living. They are: Belle, who has always remained at home; Henry, of Monroe; George, of Richmond, Ind.; Albert, of Stewartsville, Mo.; Andrew, of Adrian; Mrs. Mary Ward, of Clinton, and Mrs. Agnes Kull, of Monroe. Besides these and the sorrowing husband, four brothers and one sister still survive.
Funeral Services were conducted by Rev. E. F. Cook at the Presbyterian church Monday afternoon, and internment was on the family lot in Petersburg cemetery. Among those from a distance in attendance were George Burch, St. Catherine’s, Ont.; Mrs. George Spalding, Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Kull, Mr. and Mrs. Hume Vivian, Mrs. Andrew Vivian, Miss Josephine Vivian, Mrs. H. C. Orvis, Monroe; Albert Spalding, Stewartsville, Mo.; and Andrew Spalding and wife, Adrian.
Card of Thanks.
Our sincere thanks are hereby tendered to the many kind friends and neighbours for their assistance and sympathy during the illness and since the death of our beloved wife and mother.
Wm. Spalding and Family.William and his wife Susan, along with their daughter Isabelle are buried on one side of the Spalding family monument in Pleaseantview Cemetery in Petersburg, Michigan. On the other side of the monument are buried William's brother, Andrew Spalding and Andrew's wife Annie, together with their son J. Stewart Spalding and his wife Aristine.
Census: 1870 Frenchtown, Monroe, MI - age 37
Census: 1880 Petersburg, Monroe, MI - age 46Emigration: 13 AUG 1833 To Buffalo, NY
Death: Mrs. Willaim Spalding died May 11, 1914 at 81 years. Source: “New” Petersburg cemetery in Summerfield.
Census: 1870 Frenchtown, Monroe, MI - age 13
From Dean Spalding's website:
Monroe Evening News
Thursday, July 31, 1941
Miss Isabelle Spalding, 82 years old, and life time resident of Monroe county, died this morning at the home of her sister, Mrs. Frank Kull, 127 Noble avenue, of complications after a long illness.She was born in Frenchtown township, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Spalding, on January 17, 1859. For some time she lived in Petersburg, coming to live with her sister after the death of her parents. She was a member of the First Baptist Church.
Surviving are three brothers, George E., of Richmond, Indiana: A. B. Spalding of Stewartsville, Missouri: and A. L. Spalding of Adrian: two sisters, Mrs. Mary B. Ward of Adrian; and Mrs. Kull.
Funeral services will be held in the Maurice funeral home Sunday at 2 p. m., with the Rev. Silas B. Perry officiating. Burial will be in Pleasant View cemetery, Petersburg.PETERSBURG SUN
Friday, August 1, 1941
BELLE SPALDING, AGED 82,
PASSED AWAY WEDNESDAYRites Will Be Held in Monroe Sunday For Former Petersburg Resident
Miss Isabella (Belle) Spalding, 82 years old, died at 7:30 Wednesday evening at the home of her sister, Mrs. Agnes Kull, of Monroe, where she had been ill and inclined to her bed for about seven months.
Miss Spalding, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Spalding, was born January 17, 1859. She had lived in Petersburg for many years, coming here with her parents in 1871 from New York. The Spaldings made their home on Center street in what is now the John Ery home. Miss Spalding lived here for 47 years, the last few years of which she was kept at home due to the illness of her parents. After they passed away and she was left here alone, she went to Monroe to live with her sister, Mrs. Agnes Kull, where she had remained.
She leaves three brothers, George, of Richmond Indiana; Albert, of Stewartville, Missouri, and Andrew, of Adrian; two sisters, May, of Adrian, and Agnes, of Monroe.Services will be held Sunday afternoon at Monroe in the Maurice funeral home at 2:00 o'clock. Burial will take place in the Pleasant View cemetery at Petersburg.
Census: 1870 Frenchtown, Monroe, MI - age 11
Census: 1880 Petersburg, Monroe, MI - age 21
Census: 1870 Frenchtown, Monroe, MI - age 10
Census: 1870 Frenchtown, Monroe, MI - age 6
Census: 1880 Petersburg, Monroe, MI - age 16
From Dean Spalding's website:
Monroe Evening News
July 13, 1948ANDREW SPALDING
Andrew Spalding, who lived in Monroe many years ago, died in Bixby Hospital, Adrian, yesterday afternoon, of a stroke. Mr. Spalding had lived in Adrian for many years and was prominent in affairs of Adrian Council, Knights of Columbus. When he lived in Monroe he was employed at the postoffice. Later he became a railway mail clerk which position he held until retired on a pension. Mr. Spalding, who was about 80 years old, was an uncle of City Clerk Doras A. Soleau.
Census: 1870 Frenchtown, Monroe, MI - age 1
Census: 1880 Petersburg, Monroe, MI - age 11
Census: 1900 Adrian, Lenawee Co, MI - age 31 Occupation: 1900 Postal Clerk
Census: 1930 Adrian, Lenawee, MI - age 61 Occupation: 1930 Mail Clerk for Railroad
From Dean Spalding's website:
Monroe Evening News
February 11, 1947
Mrs. Andrew L. SpaldingMrs. Andrew L. Spalding, former Monroe resident, died this morning in her home in Adrian. Services will be Friday morning in St. Mary's Church, Adrian, and burial will be in Adrian.
The former Agnes Soleau, Mrs. Spalding was born in Frenchtown Township, daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth Soleau, and went to Adrian as a bride. Besides her husband she leaves a brother, Columbus Soleau of Monroe and a sister, Mrs. Joseph Fisk of Manistee.
Census: 1880 Petersburg, Monroe, MI - age 9
From Dean Spalding's website
Petersburg Sun
November 12, 1910News reached here Tuesday of death of our former townsman, Andrew Spalding, who died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Alfred Friederich, at Traverse City. He was about 77 years of age and one of the pioneers of this place. Although not enjoying the best of health for some time his death came unexpectedly. The remains will be brought here for internment, the funeral to be held Friday afternoon.
Petersburg Sun
November 25, 1910
Obituary-Andrew SpaldingAndrew Spalding was born April 30, 1833, at Perthshire, Scotland. When nine years of age he came to America with his parents; for a time residing in Ohio and then at Buffalo, N.Y., coming to Petersburg in 1871. His death occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Alfred V. Friedrich, at Traverse City, Mich., where he had been residing the greater part of the time for the last twelve years, Tuesday morning, Nov. 23, 1910. Besides this daughter, he also leaves to mourn his loss one son, Stewart Spalding, of Monroe; two brothers--Gen. Geo. Spalding, of Monroe, and Wm. Spalding, of this place; one sister, Mrs. Margaret Hume, of Buffalo, N.Y.
For thirty-eight years Andrew was a resident of Petersburg, where he was engaged in business of various kinds. He had held the offices of supervisor of Summerfield township and president of the village council. He was a man highly esteemed by all who had business associations with him, being a man of the strictest integrity, honest in his convictions and generous to fault--always remembering those in trouble, giving a kind word and contributing to them as liberally as seemed their need and his ability would permit.
The funeral services which were held in the Presbyterian church and conducted by Rev. Dr. Burns, of Monroe, on Friday afternoon, were largely attended by friends here and from abroad. At the conclusion of the services the body was interred in Pleaseantview Cemetery beside the remains of his wife, who passed away some years ago.Among those who were here last Friday to attend the funeral of Andrew Spalding were Stewart Spalding and son, David Stewart, Mr. and Mrs. Alex. Stewart, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Spalding, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Vivian, Mr. and Mrs. Hume Vivian, Mrs. Wm. Sterling, Jr., Mrs. H.C. Orvis and Hon. Geo. Landon, of Monroe, and Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Spalding, of Adrian.
1850 Census: July 22, 1850 - Buffalo Ward 1, Erie, NY - age 15
1860 Census: July 10, 1860 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 423, page 119 - age 26Andrew and his wife Annie, their son J. Stewart Spalding and his wife Aristine are buried on one side of the Spalding family monument in Pleaseantview Cemetery in Petersburg, Michigan. On the other side of the monument are buried Andrew's brother, William Spalding, William's wife Susan and their daughter Isabelle.
Andrew Spalding was the proprietor of a stave mill in “Petersburgh” as illustrated by a drawing in the 1876 Monroe County atlas. Andrew Spalding died Nov. 25, 1910 at 77 years. Source: “new” Petersburg cemetery in Summerfield.
Ref Elaine Jetter "Descendants of Andrew Spalding".
From Dean Spalding's website
Petersburg Bulletin
Friday March 6, 1891
SUDDEN STRANGE AND SAD DISAPEARANCE
Mrs. Spalding, wife of Andrew Spalding, of the water grist mills, of this village, who for some months past at intervals has shown symptoms of aberration of the mind, eluded the vigilance of the family and mysteriously disappeared from the family residence on Wood street, last night. Her absence was discovered at between two and three o'clock this morning, and an immediate and vigorous search at once instituted to learn of her whereabouts, but up to present writing, noon today, so far as we have heard, no trace of her wanderings has yet been learned. It was stated that she had left clad only in her night clothes, but later developments indicate that ere her departure she warmly clad herself in winter apparel. Her mother lives near Monroe, and it is thought that she may have started for the maternal home as her objective point. That such was the case and that no bodily harm has befallen her, is the sincere wish of all who know her and are informed of the sad occurrence.Later.--1:15p.m. today. The fire alarm has just been sounded; scores of citizens are hurrying to the Town hall; a meeting has been held and searching parties organized to go east, west, north and south in search of tidings. Developments are awaited with interest.
Petersburg Bulletin
Friday, March 13, 1891
Found Drowned
In our issue of last week we noted the sudden disappearance from her home on Wood St., of Mrs. Spalding, wife of Andrew Spalding, of the water grist mills. Also that the fire alarm had just been sounded, a meeting held at Township hall and searching parties organized to scour the country in every direction in search of tidings.Volunteers were plentiful, and with great dispatch a more vigorous search for the missing woman was at once inaugurated. While many believed that the missing woman would be found in a near vicinity to the village, safely housed in some neighbor's residence, others thought that her body would be found beneath the waters of the Raisin. Acting upon the latter theory a quantity of dynamite was exploded in the waters of the river. Whether this did or did not have any bearing on subsequent developments, we are not prepared to say.
The body was discovered by Mr. Hosea Rodgers. He as soon as possible communicated with others, whereupon Mr. J. W. McCarty, Mr. Rodgers and assistants proceeded with a boat to the place of the finding of the body and returned to the village therewith. The remains were taken from the river to the undertaking rooms of Mr. G. W. Graham, and from there to the family residence on Wood St.The funeral was held from the Presbyterian church, Tuesday afternoon, Rev. D. A. Curtis officiating, and was very largely attended by sympathizing relatives and friends. Her remains were deposited in the new cemetery east of the village.
Deceased was born in Galt, Canada, in 1840; was married to Mr. Andrew Spalding in 1861; had been a resident of Petersburg for twenty years or there-abouts; was a prominent member of society, respected and loved by all. Her husband, two children, Stuart Spalding, of Monroe, and Miss Minnie Spalding, a teacher in the public schools of Traverse City, Mich., besides a host of relatives and friends survive her to mourn their loss of an affectionate wife, a loving mother, a devoted and true neighbor and friend.
MONROE DEMOCRAT
FRIDAY MARCH 12, 1891
A Sad Case.
One of the saddest incidents that has come to our notice in sometime, is the sudden dis-appearance and death of Mrs. Mary Spalding, wife of Andrew Spalding, of Petersburg. Mrs. Spalding had been in ill health, from nervous prostration for some time past, and at times was thought to have been suffering from an aberration of the mind. She was given the greatest care and medical attendance, but failed to improve and a constant vigilance was kept over her. Thursday night of last week Mr. Spalding fell asleep while watching with her, and during this time she arose, dressed herself in heavy winter clothing throughout, and left the house, with the intention, it is supposed of going to the home of her mother, in Frenchtown. On awakening, Mr. Spalding found her absent and hastily began searching for her. The other members of the house were notified and a general hunt inaugurated, but to no purpose. The next morning the villagers turned out in search. After learning that she had not reached her mother's residence, it was thought that in attempting to cross the swollen river the lady had fallen in, and probably drowned. This theory seemed to be plausible, and lead to the dragging of the river and the use of dynamite. The search was continued till Saturday afternoon, when her lifeless body was found in the river, among some drift wood, about 3/4 of a mile below the bridge, and about a mile from her late residence. Mrs. Spalding was born in Gault, Canada, in 1840. She came to Michigan with her parents in 1851, and was married to Mr. Andrew Spalding in 1861. She was a kind and loving mother and won the admiration of all. She leaves a husband and two children. Her remains were buried from the Petersburg Presbyterian church on Tuesday.Death: Mrs. A. Spalding died March 10, 1891 at 49 years. The wife of Andrew Spalding in same cemetery. Source: “new” Petersburg cemetery in Summerfield.
Census - June 26, 1880 - Petersburg, Monroe, MI - Roll: T9-596; Page: 595.4000; ED: 187; Image: 376a - age 15.
1850 Census: July 22, 1850 - Buffalo Ward 1, Erie, NY- age 15
1860 Census: July 10, 1860 - Frenchtown, Monroe, Michigan - ED 423, page 119 - age 24
1870 Census living in Monroe, Monroe County MI. Age 32, occ: Postmaster. Both parents of foreign birth. Unmarried. Ref Elaine Jetter "Descendants of Andrew Spalding"Spalding, George (1836-1915) of Monroe, Monroe County, Mich. Born in Blairgowrie, Perthshire, Scotland, November 12, 1836. Republican. Colonel in the Union Army during the Civil War; mayor of Monroe, Mich., 1876; U.S. Representative from Michigan 2nd District, 1895-99. Died in Monroe, Monroe County, Mich., September 13, 1915. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, Monroe, Mich. See also: congressional biography.
SPALDING, George, a Representative from Michigan; born in Blairgowrie, Perthshire, Scotland, on November 12, 1836; immigrated to the United States in 1843 with his parents, who settled in Buffalo, N.Y.; attended the public schools; moved to Monroe, Mich.; taught school in 1860 and 1861; entered the United States Army June 20, 1861, as a private in Company A, Fourth Regiment, Michigan Volunteer Infantry, and was promoted through the ranks to colonel, Twelfth Tennessee Cavalry; appointed postmaster of Monroe, Mich., July 27, 1866, and served until December 15, 1870; special agent of the Treasury Department 1871-1875; mayor of Monroe in 1876; president of the board of education; studied law, and was admitted to the bar in 1878; member of the board of control of the State Industrial Home for Girls 1885-1897; was elected as a Republican to the Fifty-fourth and Fifty-fifth Congresses (March 4, 1895-March 3, 1899); unsuccessful candidate for renomination in 1898; again appointed postmaster of Monroe, Mich., on February 20, 1899, and served until February 13, 1907; resumed the practice of law and also engaged in agricultural pursuits; president of the First National Bank of Monroe, Mich., until his death there September 13, 1915; interment in Woodlawn Cemetery.
The following interview, written by John Fitzgibbon, was published in the Detroit News in 1911. It gives an especially clear insight into the life of General Spalding:
Gen. Geo. Spalding is the first citizen of Monroe. Born in Perthshire Scotland, not far from the Clackmannish county line, he grew up on a farm in the township of Frenchtown, Monroe county, and began life as a district school teacher at Stony Creek. He quit teaching when the civil war broke out and went to the front as an enlisted man in the Fourth Michigan infantry, whose first Colonel Dwight A. Woodbury, of Adrian, was killed at the battle of Malvern Hill; and when peace came four years later he had won a place in the first rank of Michigan's most conspicuous fighting volunteer officers, having in the closing period commanded a cavalry division of six regiments operating in Tennessee and northern Alabama.
One of his pupils at the Stony district school at Stony Creek was Thomas Keegan, now of the Keegan & Son, an old Monroe contracting firm. Mr. Keegan is nearly 70. There were four of the Webb boys also his pupils, and all four quit with him and enlisted. One of them still lives in Monroe and works at carpentry. His predecessor as teacher was Frank Raleigh; in after years a law partner, at Monroe, of Edwin Willets, who became a member of congress, president of the state agricultural college, and minister of agriculture.Tamed His Recruits.
The Fourth Michigan was forming at Adrian, and Monroe furnished Co. A. locally known as the Smith guards, from their drill master, an old Mexican war veteran named Smith. One of the recruits was a Monroe youngster, Alfred E. Bates. Before the regiment left Michigan Bates received an appointment to West Point. He did not finish in time to fight in the war but had a fine record for years afterwards in the regular service, reaching the rank of major-general and becoming paymaster general. He died in Washington a few years ago. The principle of the Monroe high school, A. Morrell Rose, went out as a second lieutenant of the company and was killed at Malvern with the colonel. He was personally complimented by the commanding general of the army, McClellan, for conspicuous bravery in one of the peninsula battles. George Spalding, because, as General Bates once told the writer, of his ability to lick any man in the company, was made orderly sergeant, one of whose duties is to tame frisky recruits.The Fourth left Adrain for Washington, 1,025 strong, June 25, just 50 years ago. W. W. Duffield of Detroit was lieutenant-colonel. Gen. Spalding tells of the regiment's earlier experience as follows:
"We were fully armed and supplied with ball cartridges when we left Adrian and on the trip we laid over for a short time at Harrisburg for drill in street fighting. You see some regiments ahead of us had found trouble when passing through Baltimore and we were preparing for it. But we got through to Washington without excitement. The first rations we got on reaching the capital was pineapple cheese. It was so hard and dry that little short of an axe would make a dint in it. We went into camp back of Twelfth street and in a few days marched across Long bridge, into Virginia, to Falls Church. Our camp there was on the same hills that Michigan volunteer troops camped at the outbreak of the Spanish war in '98, and there we drilled until movements began leading up to the first battle of Bull Run."First Sight of Sherman.
It was at Falls Church that Sergeant Spalding-that was still his rank-first saw General Sherman. There was a review of the troops and it was raining and the mud was heavy. Ideas of discipline were then pretty loose among officers of volunteer regiments and one volunteer colonel suggested to Sherman that he withdraw his regiment on account of the rain. Sherman himself wore a showy new uniform and a slouch hat with a plume in it, entirely indifferent to the rain. His reply to the volunteer Colonel was that the mule teams were standing in the rain all right and as the mules were not grumbling, it wasn't for soldiers to complain of the weather. It is surmised that General Sherman was gently, but ironically, reprimanding the colonel.
At Bull Run the Fourth was in Griffin's brigade of Morrell's division of Fitzjohn Porter's corps. It was held in reserve and did not participate in the fight, but when the Union forces began to retreat to Washington, many of the regiments became panic stricken, Colonel Woodbury, by order of General Porter, detached Company A to hold a road and try to check the retreat. In the absence of the company officers, Sgt. Spalding took a position in the road in command of the company. Recounting the circumstance he says:
"It was the main road to Washington. A lot of citizens, including senators and representatives, had come over from Washington, expecting to see our forces make a great cleaning up. Some were in carriages and they were all galloping back. I had a little over 100 men. One of those I helped was our own Senator Zach Chandler. I knew who he was in a minute, although I don't suppose he knew who I was. He pleaded to be allowed to get through. They were all plum scared of being captured. Chandler asked me where he could find the colonel. I directed him to Colonel Woodbury, and the Colonel let him pass. Another I recall stopping and turning back was Bull Run Russell the London Times correspondent. He shook a pass at me that he said the secretary of war gave him, and said he had important dispatches and must hurry to Washington. I told him nothing doing and to get back, which he did. He got through some way but not over the portion of the road I was guarding. Congressman Owen Lovejoy, a somewhat famous abolitionist preacher of Illinois, was another. If the confederates had captured Lovejoy and identified him they would probably have hanged him on general principles. But, like Russell, he succeeded in escaping to Washington. We held the position for a few hours and then marched back to Longbridge as part of the rearguard, reaching the Virginia end of the bridge about one in the morning. We were so worn out that we laid down in a brickyard in the rain and went to sleep."Becomes a Lieutenant.
On Aug. 5 Sergt. Spalding received a lieutenant's commission, and on Jan. 1, '62 he was commissioned captain. The Fourth was a part of McClellan's army that started on the campaign up the peninsula.In the direction of Richmond, in the spring of '62. Approaching Yorktown Capt. Spalding was ordered to make a reconnaissance to see if there were any moats or ditches. He had about 30 men and they advanced spread out about 10 feet apart. They drove in the confederate skirmishers and the latter being reinforced, Capt. Spalding and his men fell back, dropping at intervals and firing as they retreated. The confederates were returning the fire and Capt. Spalding, while momentarily down, was hit in the arm just above the elbow, the ball passing up into the shoulder. As to this wound he says: "They were out of chloroform at the hospital, so the surgeon dug out the ball without administering anything to me. It was one of the Enfields with a wooden plug so it would mushroom. They put me in a hospital late at night. In about two hours I routed up a darky cook and had him make me coffee and I quit the hospital then and there. I was back with my company the next day. The wound quickly healed."
At Malvern Hill Capt. Spalding was left for dead on the field, and his death was announced in the Michigan newspapers. Recounting that experience he says:
"It was during the fighting late in the afternoon that I was wounded. I soon fainted from loss of blood, and it was about midnight when I revived. There were dead men all around me but no noise. Our entire army had gone to Harrison's landing. My tongue and jaw was badly swollen and I was still wet with blood. In a little while I was able to locate a horse, and making my way to it found a lot of dead and wounded there but no surgeons or attendants. Those of the wounded who were able to get around were helping those badly wounded. One of the badly wounded I recognized as Sheridan Plues, of my company. He had been shot through the neck, the ball passing through the roots of his tongue. He made motions to me that he was hungry. On a stove in the kitchen I found a kettle with some desiccated vegetables still warm, and I got a little of it down his throat. I didn't think for a minute he would live, yet he recovered and for some time after the war was a Pere Marquette locomotive engineer running between Saginaw and Detroit."Home, Wounded.
"As for myself, I started out from the house to find our army. I didn't go far when I dropped alongside of a tree. Soon one of our wagons came along and the driver helped me in and rolled me in a blanket and carried me to our hospital at the Landing, which was about four miles. There my wound was dressed and I was given permission to return to Michigan to recuperate and do recruiting duty."Capt. Spalding was recuperating at his father's farm in Frenchtown when a big war meeting was called at Monroe to encourage the young men to enlist. Supreme Court Justice Christiancy, whose home was in Monroe, and Edwin Willetts, had been making speeches through the county for the same purpose. Mayor Sterling, a war democrat, and father of Commodore W. C. and Joe, now leading citizens of Monroe, presided. They proposed that Capt. Spalding come up from the farm and attend the meeting. He hesitated to do so, his head was still bandaged because of the Malvern wound, and his appearance instead of encouraging enlistments, might have the contrary effect. Anyhow he attended and the meeting was a big success.
While home recovering from his Malvern wound, Gov. Blair offered him the Colonelcy of the Fourth, which had been vacant since Col. Woodbury's death. Judge Christiancy advised him not to take the colonelcy just yet, so he declined and took a commission as lieutenant-colonel of the Eighteenth Michigan, then forming. In the absence of Col. Doolittle, who was at the front, Col. Spalding took out the regiment. It first went to Cincinnati, then threatened by Gen. Kirby Smith, and after the invasion scare was over the regiment marched as a part of a brigade to Lexington. Shortly afterwards he was detached from the regiment and assigned to the duty as provost marshal of the Nashville district, the city of Nashville then being the base for supplies of three great armies - the army of the Cumberland, army of the Tennessee, and the army of the Ohio.
As Provost Marshal.
As provost marshal he was independent of all army commanders, making his reports directly to the secretary of war. Andrew Jackson, who two years later was elected vice president and then succeeded President Lincoln, was then military governor of Tennessee. Gen. Spalding, as provost marshal, and Andrew Jackson, as military governor, occupied adjoining offices in the state house. Their official duties brought them in personal contact every day and for some 10 months that Gen. Spalding was provost marshal and their personal relations were always cordial, as their official relations were harmonious. Speaking of these relations Gen. Spalding says:
"Aside from our official duties I spent many a social hour with Johnson and I came to like him very much. He was a man of wonderful mental power. Coming up as he did from the very poorest of free whites of the state whom the slave owners regarded with less favor than the slaves, he had an intense hatred of the slave holding class, a feeling that they heartily reciprocated. Not only did I come to like his personal side but to admire his great abilities. When he was organizing a cavalry division of union refugees and loyal union Tennesseeans he tendered me the command and I resigned my commission in the Eighteenth Michigan and accepted his tender. He gave me six cavalry regiments and a battery of artillery, with a general rank and pay."Let Them Play "Dixie"
As provost marshal Gen. Spalding had plenary powers. The city and district was under marshal law. He had control of all military and civil prisoners, and had authority to order under arrest, without process, any person or persons in his jurisdiction suspected of disloyalty; and as habeas corpus was suspended, they remained prisoners until himself or the secretary of war saw fit to direct their discharge. One thing General Spalding did was to permit the reopening of all theaters in the district and to permit the orchestras to play "Dixie" or any other southern patriotic music they pleased, so long as there were no disloyal demonstrations, although he required a corporal's guard of armed soldiers to attend every performance.Some confidential reports that he sent to the secretary of war, and which are now presumably in the archives at Washington, reflected on certain high officers against whom he found evidence that they were trading in cotton in violation of specific orders of Gen. Grant. Among them were members of Gen. Rosecran's staff, Rosecran being commander of the army in the Cumberland. The trading consisted in helping planters to get their baled cotton within the union lines so it could be sent north and marketed.
"I had opportunities while provost marshal of the district to have made a million dollars or more in cotton dealing, providing I wasn't caught in it," says Gen. Spalding. "On one occasion when Johnson had given me the cavalry command I was about 40 miles out of Nashville, and was asleep in the ambulance, when along towards midnight an adjutant awoke me to say that a planter who claimed relationship wanted to see me on urgent business. The man explained that his name was Spalding, and that he had several tons of cotton that he would like to get to Nashville. I had a train of about 50 mule team wagons returning to Nashville unloaded. Cotton was then selling in the north for $1 a pound. If I would allow the wagon train to carry the cotton I could have any percentage of the proceeds of the several tons that I named. He was sure that if he couldn't get the cotton to Nashville raiders would burn it. I explained to him that in the face of Gen. Grant's order I could not do it. Later I learned that the cotton was destroyed by raiders all right enough."
Chasing Guerillas.
With his Tennessee cavalry division Gen. Spalding was busy chasing guerillas, numerous bands of whom were operating in the state and following the movements of Gen. Bragg's army. His command and Fighting Joe Wheeler's confederate cavalry did considerable fighting, about which the opposing commanders used to reminisce when both were members of congress at the same time many years later. One of Gen. Spalding's spies was a young and attractive Illinois woman who on one occasion spent several days at Gen. Bragg's headquarters and collected from Bragg's young officers a lot of exceedingly important information which she reported to Gen. Spalding. The latter passed it on to Gen. Thomas, who shortly afterward practically destroyed Hood's entire army at the battle of Chickamauga.Gen. Spalding was engaged with his division in the battle of Nashville, and was there wounded in the leg, above the knee. For his services in this battle he was brevetted brigadier general. He remained with his command when the wound was dressed, refusing to go to the hospital, though the wound troubled him so that in movements of any considerable distance he rode in the ambulance instead of the saddle. Soon he was ordered to Washington as a witness in an important court marshal, but he was over two weeks reaching the capital, and when he arrived the trial was over, so he returned to Nashville. On the way to Washington he was held up for three days below Nashville by a cave-in. Guerillas were exceedingly active, and, painful as his wound was, he took command during the three days at the cave-in and had them cleared out. It was while on his way to Washington that he learned of an incident showing General Sherman's antipathy to women with an army in the field, of which he relates:
"It was on the steamer going down the river from Nashville. An Iowa woman who came to nurse wounded men aboard the steamer. I was on crutches and she gave me some attendance, and, incidentally, she talked bitterly of Gen. Sherman. I inquired why she talked so and she said she had been to Sherman's headquarters for a pass to join some Iowa troops. She found Sherman standing at a high desk, writing. When she told him what she wanted and placed a letter from the governor of Iowa, and other credentials on the desk before him, Sherman, she said, didn't pretend to read the credentials but with a swipe of his arm across the desk swept them to the floor and told her she could not get a pass to the Iowa troops, or to any other troops and to return to where she had come from. He went on writing while she picked up her credentials from the floor and went out of the room."
Under Gen. Pope
On his return from Nashville to Washington Gen. Spalding's wounded leg was nearly twice its natural size. His crutches were a crude pair made by his darkey body servant. He clubbed up the stairs of an office building to see a friend, and, not finding him, started down, and slipped and fell nearly the full length of the stairs. The fall split open his swollen leg, which the surgeons afterwards agreed, was the only thing that saved it. Shortly before seven of them agreed that positively he must have to have it amputated.
His cavalry division by this time had been so reduced in strength by hard service, that but little more than enough of well men remained to make one full regiment. It had once been reorganized while he commanded it and the material for a second reorganization was very scant. When his leg healed he was transferred to the command of the Fourth Calvary division under General Wilson, and in Feb. '65 he was ordered to the department of Missouri, under Gen. Pope. Six months after the surrender at Appomatox he was mustered out of service and returned to Monroe.Another gunshot wound in his leg received at the battle of Nashville, which several army surgeons decided warrant amputation of the leg or death if he defied them and took the odds against death and the leg was saved -- and another round in the left shoulder received while leading a skirmish line before Yorktown, the surgeon cutting out the bullet without administering an anesthetic as there was none at hand, doesn't give him any trouble.
He's a Busy Man.
The general is quite busy these days looking after the finishing work on the bank's new office building, one of the most commodious on this section. It is on one of the main corners of the town but a square from the equestrian statue erected a year ago of Gen. Custer, who was not only his townsman and comrade in the big war, but his warm personal friend.It will be 70 years next year since the general's parents, over from Scotland but a year or so, settled on the farm in Frenchtown. George, the future general grew up large and strong. Such was his physique that though three times severely wounded he was in the hospital but three hours during his entire four years and four months service. Even when the bullet -- an English Enfield rifle slug, with a wooden peg at the base -- was dug out of his shoulder at Yorktown, he resumed his command of his company next day with his arm in a sling. He still has the bullet among his war relics.
George Spalding, 35, of Monroe, born in Scotland, occupation “Special treasury agent” was married Dec. 6, 1871 in Monroe. Bride: Augusta Lewis, 31, of Monroe, born in Monroe. Officiated by W. S. Taylor, minister. Witnessed by Emily Lewis and Fanny N. Lewis. Source: Monroe county marriage records.
From Dean Spalding's website
General Spalding was a member of Monroe Commandery No. 19, Masons and the only living charter member of the Knight Templars of this city. He was a member of Joseph R. Smith G. A. R. post and of the Loyal Legion of G. A. R., a Detroit organization, the members of which are composed of men who assumed extreme risks in battle.
In civil life Gen. Spalding has been mayor and postmaster of Monroe and a member of Congress. In the latter years he helped organize the First National Bank of Monroe. He became its cashier in 1877 and since 1893 has been its president. Farm life, of which he was a part of his boyhood, has never lost its attraction, and he still owns and cultivates the old Frenchtown farm. Now at the age of 75, he is the dean of Michigan national bankers in years of consecutive services in the conduct of a bank, and enjoying robust health, barring the fact that a bullet struck him on one side of his jaw at Malvern Hill, 49 years ago and lodged in the muscles of the other side of his neck close to the jugular vein, where it remains to this day, occasionally makes his voice husky.Monroe News Courier
Monday, September 13, 1915
GEN. GEORGE SPALDING IS DEAD AFTER ILLNESS OF TWO WEEKS
General George Spalding, 79 years old, Monroe's most prominent citizen; died this morning at 5 o'clock, after an illness of two weeks. An operation performed on the general some time ago is thought to have been the cause of death. The entire city was shocked by the news.Mr. Spalding had been seriously ill and under the constant care of Dr. Southworth for the last week it was not thought that death was near. At the home at 159 South Macomb street, presented a picture of deep sadness as friend after friend, in stopping to pay mute tribute fully realized that the end of "Monroe's Grand Old Man" had come.
DEAN OF STATE'S BANKERS AND MOST PROMINENT CITIZEN OF MONROE SUCCUMBS EARLY THIS MORNING: WAS 79 YEARS OLD.
ENTIRE CITY IS SHOCKED
THE VETERAN WAS ILL IT WAS NOT THOUGHT DEATH WAS IMMINENT AND FRIENDS AND ACQUAINTANCES ARE STUNNED; MILITARY FUNERAL.As soon as the news of the general's death had gained circulation in the day this morning businessmen began to plan a public and military funeral for him. A meeting was held at the First National bank of which General Spalding was president, at 1:30 o'clock. At this meeting it was decided that the body lie in state in the Presbyterian church from 11:30 until 2:00 o'clock on Wednesday the day of the funeral. The services in the church will be conducted by Dr. W. C. Burns at 2:30. Internment will be made in Woodland cemetery.
Issues Proclamation
Mayor Betz will issue a proclamation this afternoon, urging every business house in Monroe to close their doors from 2 'til 4 o'clock Wednesday afternoon. The military services will be in charge of Captain Isaac C. Godfroy, who will be marshal of the day. The Light Guards, G. A. R., Spanish War Veterans, city and county officials, the bar association and the Masonic organizations will attend the funeral in a body.
General Spalding was born in Scotland in 1836. He has been connected with the First National Bank since 1875. In January, 1877, he was made director of the institution, in April of the same year he was made cashier and in May of 1892 made president. Between the years of 1892 and 1896 he served in congress, being re-elected to the presidency of the bank in 1911. He served in that capacity until his death.Those Who Survive.
Those who survive the general are: Major George Spalding, United States army, stationed at Cincinnati O., a son; Dr. Lewis Spalding, of Hudson, Mich., a son; Mrs. Dr. H. C. Orvis, a daughter; Mrs. W. C. Sterling Jr., a daughter; Mr. William Spalding, of Petersburg, a brother, and the widow Mrs. General George Spalding.
The survivors in a statement issued today, declare it is their wishes that no one send flowers.A picture of Thomas Spalding, George Spalding's cousin, was sent to General George Spalding located in Monroe, MI by Andrew Spalding in Blairgowrie, Scotland. This picture was among General Spalding's papers that survived and that Shirley Langerman entrusted to Dean Spalding. The family information on the reverse of the picture clearly link Thomas Spalding, grocer of Larkhall to General George Spalding as cousins.
Text from the reverse of a photo of Thomas Spalding b1819 Larkhall, d1899 Larkhall.
"This is a photograph of Thomas Spalding who was a successful Grocer at Larkhall Lanarkshire Scotland & who died early in the nineties. He was a son of Peter Spalding who was a brother of Andrew Spalding the Father of General Spalding. Said Thomas Spalding was therefore a full cousin of General George Spalding. He has one daughter alive and 2 grandchildren - girls. He was a very religious man and highly respected in his town. I saw him often & know his family.Signed
Andrew Spalding
Blairgowrie
December 1906"George Spalding was born in Scotland in 1836. Andrew Spalding, his father, was a farmer. Andrew immigrated to America with his wife and family in 1843. In 1853 Andrew purchased a farm near Monroe on the river Raisin. The parents of General (George) Spalding were of the study Presbyterian stock. General (George) Spalding lived at home until the winter of 1860-61 when he taught a district school. He had a complicated military career. In 1865, he returned to Monroe . In 1866 he was appointed postmaster. He was elected Mayor of the city of Monroe in 1876. He was admitted to the Bar in 1878.
From Dean Spalding's website
Monroe Evening News
Monday, November 12, 1923
ESTEEMED WOMAN CALLED BY DEATHMrs. Augusta Lewis Spalding, widow of the late General George Spalding, died at her home, corner of Third and South Macomb streets, Sunday night at 10:40 o'clock of pneumonia. Mrs. Spalding was one of the best known women of this city and her many friends will learn of her death with sorrow. Her husband was a Civil war veteran and served as postmaster of this city, Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at her late home, Third and Macomb streets. Friends will kindly omit flowers.
Monroe Evening News
Wednesday, Nov. 14, 1923
Mrs. George SpaldingA full and beautiful life was brought to a close when Augusta Lewis Spalding, widow of the late General George Spalding of this city, died on Sunday night at the age of eighty-four after an illness of but seven days.
Mrs. Spalding's natural constitutional strength and her indomitable courage and will to live and serve those she loved made it possible for her to be active and useful to the end. Her life was a full one to the last. She will be missed by all who knew her, and few in Monroe did not know her, but the memory of her radiantly sweet and happy smile, her kindliness, her thoughtfulness will live with us all.
Born in Monroe on September 3, 1839, she passed her entire life in this city except for the few years spent with her husband in Washington while he was representing this district in congress.
Mrs. Spalding's parents moved to Monroe from Clyde, New York, to which latter town Mr.Lewis had been drawn from his birthplace, Derby, Connecticut, by the work in progress on the construction of the Erie Canal. Here he met Miss Sophia Redfield who later became his wife and mother of Mrs. Spalding.
Upon moving to Monroe, Mr. Lewis joined a number of prominent citizens in offering large inducements for the establishment of a school for the education of the young women of Monroe and vicinity. It was at Boyd's Seminary that Mrs. Spalding passed her school and academic days and here began many of those firm friendships with other young women which solidified by their self sacrificing work together during the dark days of the Civil war were to endure throughout the years.
In 1871 she was married to Gen. George Spalding, one of the members of Company A, whom she as a seminary girl had cheered away to war and one of those who had returned crowned with laurels to the town and the women they had learned to love.
To this loving couple four children were born, two sons and two daughters. The two daughters, Mrs. W. C. Sterling, Jr., and Mrs. H. C. Orvis, live in this city. One son, Dr. Isaac Lewis Spalding, resides and practices medicine at Hudson, Michigan, and George Redfield Spalding, a lieutenant colonel in the Corp of Engineers, U. S. army, is in charge of the construction of Wilson Dam across the Tennessee River at Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
In addition to her children and their families, Mrs. Spalding leaves three sisters, Miss Emily Lewis of this city, Mrs. Francis Marsh of Moriarty, New Mexico, and Mrs. Martha Lawrence of Honolulu, H. I.
Simple services were held at 2:30 p. m. on Wednesday, November 14 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. H. C. Orvis. Internment was made at Woodland cemetery
