In 1880, infant mortality in the United States was nearly 40%. If a woman gave birth to ten children throughout her childbearing years, she could expect to bury four babies before they reached the age of five. Ellen Sutherland was remarkable in that all of her children survived infancy. Continue reading
Eliza Ellen Powell was born April 27, 1860 in Burnsville, Indiana. Robert and Louisa Eliza Powell welcomed their daughter into a family that already included Elizabeth, 3, and Thomas Benton, 1. Two years later, Clinton was born. Continue reading
Two thirds of would be homesteaders either gave up their claim or failed to meet the requirements of The Homestead Act. Cal Sutherland was nearly one of them. Continue reading
In researching land records for Ellen Sutherland, I found homestead patents for Lewis H. Sutherland and Isaac C. Sutherland in the same area. Based on their names and ages, I believe that they were Charles Wesley’s nephews by his older brother James Hiram Sutherland (1939-1915). Continue reading
HOMESTEAD PROOF – TESTIMONY OF CLAIMANT
Mrs. Ellen Sutherland (widow), being called as a witness in his own behalf in support of homestead entry, No. 19101, for SE 1/4 Sec 35, Township 8S R 9 W La Mer, testifies as follows: Continue reading
The family spent five years in Welsh while Ellen looked for land. Five years of false leads and disappointment. Five years wondering if she made the right decision. Continue reading
In either 1893 or 1894, Ellen Sutherland packed up her children and headed south. Continue reading
Ellen Sutherland was 32 years old. Eight children. Widowed. Alone.
Charles Wesley Sutherland died October 31, 1892, age 43. His death was recorded in Fenton, LA. Family tradition says that he was buried in Welsh, LA. His grave has never been located.
By 1892, Charles was ready to move south. His mother died in January. He may have been seriously ill and hoped that warmer weather would help his health. Charles and Ellen made plans to move the family south.