Person Page - 18

          Otto Herman Rackers, son of Herman G. Rackers and Anna Maria Gesina Tecla Prenger, was born on 4 July 1896 in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.^4,5 Conflicting evidence placed his birth on April 19, 1896, possibly to qualify as an adult for the draft registration.^6,2,7
     He was enumerated as the son of Herman G. Rackers on the 1900 U. S. Census for Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri. He was listed as a four-year-old white male, born in Missouri as were his parents.⁷
     Otto was enumerated as the son of Anna Maria Gesina Tecla Prenger under the name of "Otto Rackers" on the 1910 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, he is a 14-year-old while male who has attended school within the year and is able to read, write, and speak English. He and his parents were born in Missouri.⁸ Otto Herman Rackers lived in 1917 at Route #4 in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.⁶
In 1917 Otto Herman Rackers farmed at Route #4 in Missouri for himsellf.⁶ He registered for the draft for World War I on 5 June 1917 at Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, He is described on this registration card as being a single Caucasian, a natural born citizen, of medium height and build, with blue eyes and light hair.⁶
     Otto Herman Rackers served circa 1918 in the 1st World War.⁴
     Otto married Henrietta Kundagunda Knorr circa 1920 at Missouri.^1,3
     Otto Herman was a carpenter in 1920 at Cole County, Missouri.⁹
     Otto was enumerated as the son of Anna Maria Gesina Tecla Prenger on the 1920 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, described as a 23-year-old single white male, born in Missouri as were his parents. He is able to read, write, and speak English.⁹
     Otto is a head of household on the 1930 U. S. Census for Osage Township, Missouri, as "Otto Rackers" he's listed as a 34-year-old white male living on a farm he owns. He has been married since the age of 25 and is able to read, write and speak English. He and his parents were born in Missouri. He owns a radio set and is a veteran of WW 1. His farm is numbered 219 on the farm schedule.. Enumerated with him were:, his son Vernon Emil.⁴ His Social Security Number was 490-09-6912, assigned before 1951, issued in Missouri.⁵ Otto Herman Rackers lived before November 1974 in Missouri.⁵
     Otto died in November 1974 at age 78.⁵

     
     Henrietta married Otto Herman Rackers, son of Herman G. Rackers and Anna Maria Gesina Tecla Prenger, circa 1920 at Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^1,2

     Marion Rackers joined in a domestic partnership with Jay Shryock.¹

          Alice Marie Mertens, daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, was born on 4 June 1927 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^2,3,4 She was baptized on 5 June 1927 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, godparents listed were Herm. Mehmert and Maria M Rentnghem..⁵
     Alice was enumerated as the daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Alice M Mertens" on the 1930 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, she is a two-year and four-month old white female who was born in Missouri as were her parents.⁶ Alice Marie Mertens attended at St. Stanislaus Catholic School, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, circa 1933.³ She was confirmed on 20 April 1936 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri, sponsors were Agnes M. Hentges; at this time, Wardsville was part of the St. Louis Diocese.⁷
     Alice married Vernon Emil Rackers, son of Otto Herman Rackers and Henrietta Kundagunda Knorr, on 29 October 1946 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri. The marriage ceremony was performed by Reverend Aloysius B. Bauman.^8,4,9,3

Alice and Vernon Emil Rackers Wedding Photo.
Alice Marie Mertens lived in 1981 in Missouri.¹⁰
     Alice Marie Mertens was listed in Augusta Mertens's obituary as surviving.¹⁰ Alice and Vernon Emil Rackers lived in 1988 at Route 8 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.¹¹
     Alice Marie Mertens was listed in Harry Joseph Rackers's obituary on 13 June 1988 as surviving.¹¹
     Alice Marie Mertens was listed in Edward Theodore Mertens's obituary on 31 August 1988 as surviving.¹² Alice Marie Mertens lived in 1991 in Missouri.^13,14
     Alice Marie Mertens was listed in William Francis Mertens's obituary on 18 October 1991 as surviving.¹⁴
     Alice Marie Mertens was listed in Clara Anna Mertens's obituary on 6 November 1991 as surviving.¹³ Alice Marie Mertens lived in November 1997 in Missouri.¹⁵
     Alice Marie Mertens was listed in Johanna K. Korsmeyer's obituary on 14 November 1997 as surviving.¹ Alice Marie Mertens lived in April 2000 in Missouri.¹⁶
     Alice Marie Mertens was listed in Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens's obituary on 17 April 2000 as surviving.^17,16 Alice Marie Mertens was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, the Married Ladies Sodality, the Over-Fifty Club, and the Women of Wardsville. before 2003 at Missouri.³
     Vernon and Alice Marie Mertens lived before June 2003 in Missouri. Residing with them were.³ Her obituary was published in the Jefferson City News Tribune on 8 June 2003.³ Her obituary stated:

³
     Alice is also survived by nineteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.³
     Her wake was held on 9 June 2003 at Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m.^3,18
     Her funeral service was held on 10 June 2003 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri, with the Rev. Louis E. Dorn officiating.. At the Offertory Procession, the items presented were: the Quilt, the Flowers, the Pies, and a Family Portrait.^3,19 Alice Marie Mertens was buried on 10 June 2003 in St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^3,18

          Clara Anna Mertens, daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, was born on 18 November 1905 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^1,2,3
     Clara was enumerated as the daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Clara Mertens" on the 1910 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, she was a four-year-old white female born in Missouri. She spoke English. Both her parents were born in Missouri.⁴ Clara Anna Mertens was confirmed circa 1915 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri; Wardsville was part of the St. Louis Diocese.⁵
     Clara Anna Mertens received her First Holy Communion on 13 May 1915 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; in the Diocese of St. Louis.⁶
     Clara was enumerated as the daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens on the 1920 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Missouri, she is a 14-year-old female who has not attended school within the year, but is able to read, write, and speak English. She and her parents were born in Missouri. |¦"Clara Mertens."⁷
     Clara was enumerated as the daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Clara Mertens" on the 1930 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Missouri, she is a 24-year-old white female, single, who lives on a farm and has no occupation listed. She is able to read, write, and speak English. She and both her parents were born in Missouri.⁸
     Clara married Lorence Herman Schulte, son of John Schulte and Margaret Leigers, on 29 May 1935 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri, the maid of honor was Augusta Mertens. The marriage ceremony was performed by Reverend Aloysius B. Bauman.^9,3
     On February 22, 1978, Charles and Augusta Frank, along with Lorence and Clara Schulte, were involved in a car accident on Route B (Wardsville Road) with a car driven by Benny Stephen Happe, aged 15 years. He was driving his father's truck with his permission, but without a license. Immediately after the accident, Benny left the scene on foot, went to a nearby home and called his father. He claimed that an unknown vehicle in front of him braked suddenly and he swerved to avoid striking that car. However, Charles stated that Benny was passing the unknown vehicle and tried to swerve back into his own lane, but because of the snow, skidded into the path of Charles's's car. Lorence was injured the most severely, with a fractured hip and head injuries. After surgery, he recuperated for months. Clara was slightly injured and hospitalized. Augusta was riding in the back seat and received a gash on her forehead, along with a puncture wound on her thigh, when a handle on Lorence's wheelchair pierced her skin and travelled in a tunnel- like wound. She was also hospitalized for several days. Charles was injured, but was seeking his own medical treatment. His knee was jammed into the ignition key, breaking it. And his chest impacted the steering wheel so hard it bent and cracked. He later had a chest x-ray because his chest was so painful.¹⁰ Clara Anna Mertens lived in 1981 in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.¹¹
     Clara Anna Mertens was listed in Augusta Mertens's obituary as surviving.¹¹ Clara Anna Mertens lived in 1988 in Missouri.¹²
     Clara Anna Mertens was listed in Edward Theodore Mertens's obituary on 31 August 1988 as surviving.¹² Clara Anna Mertens was a member of St. Joseph Cathedral and the St. Joseph Women's Association before 1991 at Missouri.³ She lived in October 1991 in Missouri.¹³
     Clara Anna Mertens was listed in William Francis Mertens's obituary on 18 October 1991 as surviving.¹³ Her obituary was published in the in an unknown newspaper on 6 November 1991 at Jefferson City, Missouri.³ Her obituary stated:

³
     She is also survived by nineteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.³
     Her wake was held on 7 November 1991 at Dulle Funeral Home, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m.³
     Her funeral service was held on 8 November 1991 at St. Joseph Cathedral, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, with the Rev. Christopher Dixon and the Rev. Patrick Shortt officiating.³ Clara Anna Mertens was buried on 8 November 1991 in Resurrection Cemetery in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.³
     Clara Anna Mertens was mentioned in Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens's obituary on 17 April 2000 as preceding the deceased in death.^14,15
     Clara Anna Mertens was mentioned in Alice Marie Mertens's obituary on 8 June 2003 as preceding the deceased in death.¹⁶
     Clara Anna Mertens was mentioned in Pauline Margaret Schulte's obituary on 28 July 2004 as preceding the deceased in death.^17,18

          Lorence Herman Schulte, son of John Schulte and Margaret Leigers, was born on 23 July 1907.³
     He lived with his parents, Margaret and John, in 1935 in Taos, Cole County, Missouri.²
     Lorence married Clara Anna Mertens, daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, on 29 May 1935 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, the maid of honor was Augusta Mertens. The marriage ceremony was performed by Reverend Aloysius B. Bauman.^2,4
     On February 22, 1978, Charles and Augusta Frank, along with Lorence and Clara Schulte, were involved in a car accident on Route B (Wardsville Road) with a car driven by Benny Stephen Happe, aged 15 years. He was driving his father's truck with his permission, but without a license. Immediately after the accident, Benny left the scene on foot, went to a nearby home and called his father. He claimed that an unknown vehicle in front of him braked suddenly and he swerved to avoid striking that car. However, Charles stated that Benny was passing the unknown vehicle and tried to swerve back into his own lane, but because of the snow, skidded into the path of Charles's's car. Lorence was injured the most severely, with a fractured hip and head injuries. After surgery, he recuperated for months. Clara was slightly injured and hospitalized. Augusta was riding in the back seat and received a gash on her forehead, along with a puncture wound on her thigh, when a handle on Lorence's wheelchair pierced her skin and travelled in a tunnel- like wound. She was also hospitalized for several days. Charles was injured, but was seeking his own medical treatment. His knee was jammed into the ignition key, breaking it. And his chest impacted the steering wheel so hard it bent and cracked. He later had a chest x-ray because his chest was so painful.⁵
     Lorence died on 8 September 1989 in Cole County, Missouri, at age 82.³
     Lorence Herman Schulte was mentioned in Clara Anna Mertens's obituary on 6 November 1991 as preceding the deceased in death.⁴
     Lorence Herman Schulte was mentioned in Pauline Margaret Schulte's obituary on 28 July 2004 as preceding the deceased in death.^1,6

          Frances Marie Mertens, daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, was born on 12 November 1910 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^1,2,3,4,5 She was baptized on 13 November 1910 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, the sponsors included Francis Twehaus.³
     Frances Marie Mertens received her First Holy Communion on 27 April 1919 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; in the Diocese of St. Louis.⁶ She was confirmed in 1920 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; Wardsville was part of the St. Louis Diocese.⁷
     Frances was enumerated as the daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Frances Mertens" on the 1920 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, she is a nine-year-old female who has attended school within the year and is able to read, write, and speak English. She and her parents were born in Missouri.⁸
     Frances Marie Mertens attended grade school at East Union School, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, graduating June 1925.⁹
     Frances was enumerated as the daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Frances Mertens" on the 1930 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Missouri, she is a 19-year-old single white female who lives on a farm and has no occupation listed. She's able to speak, read, and write English. She and both her parents were born in Missouri.¹⁰
     Frances married Henry Francis Veit, son of Frank Veit and Helena (?), on 28 February 1933 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri. attached to Baptismal Record is note: "Matrimonium contracticum Francisco Veit die 28 Feb 1933, nv. Lib. Mat. P 21."³

Frances and Henry Francis Veit Wedding Photo.
Confilicting evidence stated Frances Marie Mertens and Henry Francis Veit were married November 28, 1933 (Mertens 1998 reunion).¹ Frances Marie Mertens was buried circa 24 August 1965 in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, sharing a stone with Frank H. Veit.^1,5
     Frances Marie Mertens Veit Obituary Card.
     Frances Marie Mertens was mentioned in Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens's obituary on 17 April 2000 as preceding the deceased in death.^11,12
     Frances Marie Mertens was mentioned in Alice Marie Mertens's obituary on 8 June 2003 as preceding the deceased in death.¹³

      Henry Francis Veit was also known as Frank H..¹      Henry Francis Veit, son of Frank Veit and Helena (?), was born on 5 October 1900 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^1,3
     Henry Francis Veit lived with Helena and Frank Veit in 1910 at Wardsville Road in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.⁴
     Henry was enumerated as the son of Frank Veit under the name of "Frank Veit" on the 1910 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, he is a nine-year-old white male born in Missouri, whose parents were born in Germany. He speaks English.⁴
     Henry was enumerated as the son of Frank Veit under the name of "Frank Veit" on the 1920 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, he is a 19-year-old single white male who speaks, reads, and writes English. He was born in Missouri and works on the home farm as a farm laborer for wages. His father was born in Schlessing, Germany and his mother in Holland. The father spoke German and the mother Dutch.² In 1929 Henry was rumored to be a bootlegger at Wardsville, Missouri.
     Henry married Frances Marie Mertens, daughter of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, on 28 February 1933 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri. attached to Baptismal Record is note: "Matrimonium contracticum Francisco Veit die 28 Feb 1933, nv. Lib. Mat. P 21."⁵

Frances and Henry Francis Veit Wedding Photo.
Confilicting evidence stated Henry Francis Veit and Frances Marie Mertens were married November 28, 1933 (Mertens 1998 reunion).¹
     Henry died on 20 April 1970 at Memorial Hospital in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, at age 69 as a result of an automobile accident.^1,3 He was buried circa 22 August 1970 in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, sharing a stone with Frances M. Veit.^1,3

     
     (?) married Priscilla (?) (her second marriage).¹

          Louis John Mertens, son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, was born on 23 June 1908 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^1,2 He was baptized on 28 June 1908 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, the sponsors included Frances Bock and John Heislen Reverend J. H. Krechter officating..³ His baptism name was John Louis.³
     Louis was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Louis Mertens" on the 1910 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, he's a two-year-old white male who does speak English. He and his parents were born in Missouri.⁴
     Louis John Mertens received his First Holy Communion on 7 April 1918 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; in the Diocese of St. Louis.⁵
     Louis was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Louis Mertens" on the 1920 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, he is an 11-year-old male born in Missouri as were his parents. He has attended school this year and is able to read, write and speak English.⁶ Louis John Mertens was confirmed on 11 October 1920 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; Wardsville was part of the St. Louis Diocese.⁷
     Louis was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Louis J Mertens" on the 1930 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, he is a 21-year-old white male, who is single and lives on a farm, working as a farmer. He is able to read, write, and speak English. He is not a veteran. He and his parents were all born in Missouri.⁸
     Louis married Leona Catherine Hentges on 17 November 1936 at Missouri.
     Louis died on 21 July 1963 in Cole County, Missouri, at age 55.^9,1,2
     Louis John Mertens was mentioned in Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens's obituary on 17 April 2000 as preceding the deceased in death.^10,11
     Louis John Mertens was mentioned in Alice Marie Mertens's obituary on 8 June 2003 as preceding the deceased in death.¹²

          Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens, son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, was born on 28 July 1914 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^3,4,5,6 He was baptized on 2 August 1914 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, the sponsors included Edith Christine Bock other godparent listed as John H. Mertens. (Uncertain which John H. Mertens).³
     Bernard was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Bernard Mertens" on the 1920 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, he is a five-year-old white male who was born in Missouri as were his parents.⁷
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens received his First Holy Communion in 1922 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; in the diocese of St. Louis.⁸ He was confirmed on 17 April 1926 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; his sponsor was Ed Renterghem. Wardsville was in the St. Louis Diocese.¹
     Bernard was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Bernard Mertens" on the 1930 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, he is a 15-year-old single white male who lives on a farm and is able to read, write, and speak English. He and his parents were all born in Missouri.⁹ Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was the best man at the marriage of Charles Joseph Frank and Augusta Mertens on 6 April 1937 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri.^{10,11,12,13,14,15}
     Bernard married Ruth Mary Mueller on 14 February 1942 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.^3,5,4,6
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens lived at Box 1129 South Rock Creek Road in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. He lived in 1981 in Missouri.¹⁵
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was listed in Augusta Mertens's obituary as surviving.¹⁵ Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens lived in 1988 in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.¹⁶
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was listed in Edward Theodore Mertens's obituary on 31 August 1988 as surviving.¹⁶ Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens lived in 1991 in Missouri.^17,18
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was listed in William Francis Mertens's obituary on 18 October 1991 as surviving.¹⁸
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was listed in Clara Anna Mertens's obituary on 6 November 1991 as surviving.¹⁷ Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens lived in November 1997 in Missouri.^19,2
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was listed in Johanna K. Korsmeyer's obituary on 14 November 1997 as surviving.² Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, the Men's Sodality, the Knights of Columbus, the Lions Club and many farm and agricultural organizations. He was also a member of the Original Parish Council of St. Stanislaus. before 2000 at Missouri.⁴
     Bernard Henry was a lifelong dairy and cattle farmer before 2000 at Missouri.⁴
     Bernard died on 16 April 2000 at his home in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, at age 85.^5,4 His obituary was published in the News Tribune on 17 April 2000 at Jefferson City, Missouri.⁴ His obituary stated:

⁴
     Ben is also survived by 25 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.⁴
     His wake was held on 18 April 2000 at Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.^5,4
     His funeral service was held on 19 April 2000 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri, with the service being performed by Rev. Michael A. Coleman.^5,4 He was buried on 19 April 2000 in St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.⁴
     Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens was mentioned in Alice Marie Mertens's obituary on 8 June 2003 as preceding the deceased in death.²⁰

          Edward Theodore Mertens, son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, was born on 16 July 1917 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^2,3 Conflicting evidence placed his birth July 17, 1917 (St. Stanislaus Church Records).⁴ He was baptized on 22 July 1917 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, the sponsors included Maria Margaret "Mary" Mertens other godparent was listed as Ed Renterghem..⁴
     Edward was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Edward Mertens" on the 1920 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, he is a two-year and five-month old white male who was born in Missouri as were his parents.⁵
     Edward Theodore Mertens received his First Holy Communion on 11 April 1926 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; First Communion Records.⁶ He was confirmed on 17 April 1926 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; his sponsor was Henry Twehous. Wardsville was part of the St. Louis diocese.¹
     Edward was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "Edward Mertens" on the 1930 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, he is a 12-year-old single white male who is able to read, write, and speak English. He and his parents were born in Missouri.⁷
     Edward married Dorothy Catherine Rackers, daughter of Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers and Mathilda M. "Tillie" Hoelscher, on 4 June 1943 at Selman Field, Monroe, Oachita Parish, Louisiana.^4,3,8,9,2

Dorothy and Edward Theodore Mertens Wedding Photo.
He lived in 1981 in Missouri.¹⁰
     Edward Theodore Mertens was listed in Augusta Mertens's obituary as surviving.¹⁰ Edward Theodore Mertens was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, the Men's Sodality, and the Knights of Columbus Council No. 8399 before 1988 at Missouri.³
Before 1988 Edward Theodore Mertens farmed in Missouri.³
     Edward died on 30 August 1988 at Memorial Community Hospital in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, at age 71.^3,8,9,2 His obituary was published in the in an unknown newspaper on 31 August 1988 at Jefferson City, Missouri.³ His obituary stated:

³
     His wake was held on 31 August 1988 at Dulle Funeral Home, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, with a prayer service at 7 p.m.³
     His funeral service was held on 1 September 1988 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri, with the Rev. Brendan Doyle officiating.³ He was buried on 1 September 1988 in St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.³
     Edward Theodore Mertens was mentioned in Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens's obituary on 17 April 2000 as preceding the deceased in death.^11,12
     Edward Theodore Mertens was mentioned in Alice Marie Mertens's obituary on 8 June 2003 as preceding the deceased in death.¹³

          William Francis Mertens, son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, was born on 27 June 1924 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^1,2,3,4
     William Francis was a self-employed cabinet maker at Wichita, Sedgwick County, Kansas.⁵ He was baptized on 29 June 1924 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, the sponsors included William E. Hopen godparent was listed as Maria Mertens..¹
     William was enumerated as the son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens under the name of "William Mertens" on the 1930 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, he is a five-year-old white male who is able to read, write, and speak English. He and both his parents were born in Missouri.⁶
     William Francis Mertens received his First Holy Communion on 3 April 1932 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; DDiocese of St. Louuis, Missouri.⁷ He was confirmed on 20 April 1936 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Missouri; his sponsor was Lawrence Hake.⁸
     William married Alice Rose Theis, daughter of Frank Theis and Rosalia (?), on 3 August 1954 at St. Leo's Catholic Church, Nashville, Kingman County, Kansas.^1,5,2 Confilicting evidence stated William Francis Mertens was married August 30, 1954 (St. Stanislaus Church Record Book).¹ He lived in 1981 in Kansas.⁹
     William Francis Mertens was listed in Augusta Mertens's obituary as surviving.⁹ William Francis Mertens lived in 1988 in Kansas.¹⁰
     William Francis Mertens was listed in Edward Theodore Mertens's obituary on 31 August 1988 as surviving.¹⁰
     William Francis was a self-employed cabinet maker. before 1991 at Kansas.²
     William died on 18 October 1991 in Kansas at age 67.^3,2
     William is also survived by four grandchildren.²
     His wake was held on 20 October 1991 at De Vorss Flanagan-Hunt Mortuary, Wichita, Sedgwick County, Kansas.¹¹
     His funeral service was held on 21 October 1991 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Wichita, Sedgwick County, Kansas, The Rev. Carl Schwarz officiated.^3,2 He was buried on 21 October 1991 in Resurrection Mausoleum in Wichita, Sedgwick County, Kansas, Casket bearers were Mike Mertens, Karl Mertens, Thomas Rackers, Kerry Tracy, Frank Jarmer, and Mark Danahy.^3,2
     William Francis Mertens was mentioned in Bernard Henry "Ben" Mertens's obituary on 17 April 2000 as preceding the deceased in death.^12,13
     William Francis Mertens was mentioned in Alice Marie Mertens's obituary on 8 June 2003 as preceding the deceased in death.¹⁴

      Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers was also known as Aloys Louis H. Rackers.^3,2      Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers, son of Herman G. Rackers and Anna Maria Gesina Tecla Prenger, was born on 7 July 1886 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.^2,4,5
     He was enumerated as the son of Herman G. Rackers under the name of "Louis H. Rackers" on the 1900 U. S. Census for Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri. He was listed as a 13-year-old single white male, born in Missouri as were his parents. He is able to read, write, and speak English and is at school.⁴
     Aloys was enumerated as the son of Anna Maria Gesina Tecla Prenger under the name of "Aloss Rackers" on the 1910 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, he is a 24-year-old single white male who is a farm laborer on the home farm, working for wages. He is able to read, write, and speak English. He and his parents were born in Missouri.⁶
     Aloys married Mathilda M. "Tillie" Hoelscher circa 1914 at Missouri.¹
In 1920 Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers farmed at Osage Township in Missouri.⁷
     Aloys is a head of household on the 1920 U. S. Census for Osage Township, Missouri, as "Louis H. Rackers" described as a 33-year-old married white male who owns his home with a mortgage. He and his parents were born in Missouri. He is able to read, write, and speak English and his farm numbers 100 on the farm schedule.. Enumerated with him were: his wife, Mathilda M., his son Ralph Stanislaus, his daughters Dorothy Catherine.⁷
     Aloys is a head of household on the 1930 U. S. Census for Osage Township, Missouri, as "Louis H Rackers" he is a 44-year-old white married male who owns his own farm. His farm is number 187 on the farm schedule. He was 26-years-old at the time of his marriage. He and his parents were born in Missouri. He reads, writes, and speaks English. He is a farmer, is not a veteran and owns a radio set.. Enumerated with him were: his wife, Mathilda M., his sons Ralph Stanislaus, his daughters Dorothy Catherine.⁸ His Social Security Number was 489-42-8875, assigned 1955, issued in Missouri.⁵ Before 1985 Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers was active in at Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.⁵
     Aloys died on 16 January 1985 in Missouri at age 98.^2,5 He was buried in St. Stanislaus Church Cemetery in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.²

          Mathilda M. "Tillie" Hoelscher was born on 16 February 1885.^4,3,1
     Mathilda married Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers, son of Herman G. Rackers and Anna Maria Gesina Tecla Prenger, circa 1914 at Missouri.¹
     Mathilda was enumerated as the wife of Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers on the 1920 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, listed as a 34-year-old married white female, who was born in Missouri, as was her father. Her mother was born in Holland. Mathilda is able to speak, read, and write English.⁵
     Mathilda was enumerated as the wife of Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers under the name of "Tillie Rackers" on the 1930 U.S. Census of Osage Township, Missouri, she is a 45-year-old married white female, born in Missouri. She was 27-years-old when she married her father was born in Missouri, her mother in Germany. She reads, writes, and speaks English.⁴
     Mathilda died on 9 October 1971 at age 86.³ She was buried after 9 October 1971 in St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.³

          Dorothy Catherine Rackers, daughter of Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers and Mathilda M. "Tillie" Hoelscher, was born on 22 January 1918 in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.¹
     Dorothy Catherine Rackers lived at Route B-4514 in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.
     Dorothy was enumerated as the daughter of Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers on the 1920 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, described as a one-year-and-eleven-month-old white female, who was born in Missouri, as were her parents.²
     Dorothy was enumerated as the daughter of Aloys Herman "Louis" Rackers under the name of "Dorothy Rackers" on the 1930 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Missouri, she is a 12-year-old white female who was born in Missouri and lives on a farm. She has attended school within the past year and is able to read, write, and speak English. Her parents were both born in Missouri.³
     Dorothy married Edward Theodore Mertens, son of Peter Paul Otto Mertens and Mary Bock, on 4 June 1943 at Selman Field, Monroe, Oachita Parish, Louisiana.^4,5,1,6,7

Dorothy and Edward Theodore Mertens Wedding Photo.

     Dorothy Catherine Rackers lived before 1999 in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri. Residing with them were, their child, Stephen.¹ She was a member of St. Stanislaus Church, Ladies' Sodality, Over-Fifty Club, all of Wardsville, St. Marys Health Center Auxiliary of Jefferson City, and was a Providence Partner with the Sisters of Divine Providence. before 1999 at Missouri.¹ Her obituary stated:

¹
     Dorothy was also survived by seven grandchildren.¹
     Her wake was held on 21 November 1999 at Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, with a prayer service at 4 p.m.¹
     Her funeral service was held on 22 November 1999 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri, with the Rev. Michael A. Coleman officiating.¹ She was buried on 22 November 1999 in St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery in Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.¹
     Dorothy Catherine Rackers was mentioned in an unknown person 's obituary on 8 February 2006 as preceding the deceased in death.⁸

     
     Steve married Linda Carol Williams, daughter of Sammy Raymond Williams and Mary Elizabeth Frank, on 27 April 1991 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, the wedding party also included Sandra Kadler, Jefferson City, as an attendant. The best man was William Maxwell Jr., of Hanover, Md., while other groomsmen were Mark Mesnier of St. Louis, and John Beck of Jefferson City, cousin of the groom. Leigh Anne Shaper, St. Louis, and John Beck, both cousins of the groom, were organist and vocalist. The offertory procession was led by Cheryl Mesnier, St. Louis, Janet Maxwell, Hanover, Md., Julie Berg and Candace Frank.. The bride was given in marriage by Sammy Raymond Williams.^1,2

          William Knapp, son of William Knapp and Judith Tue, was born between 1607 and 1654 in England.²
     William (his first marriage) married Mary (?) (her first marriage) circa 1640.³
     William (his second marriage) married Margret (?) circa 1650 at Watertown, Middlesex County, Massachusetts.³

          John Knapp, son of William Knapp and Judith Tue, was born in 1624.²
     John was a carpenter.²
     John Knapp was an adm. freeman in 1652 at Watertown, Middlesex County, Massachusetts.²
     John married Sarah Young, daughter of (?) Young, on 25 May 1660 at Massachusetts.² John Knapp on 21 April 1666 at Massachusetts sold several lots of land to John Fiske. The county records show that he often bought and sold land.
     John Knapp was appointed as the adminstrator of his brother-in-law Henry Young's estate on 18 August 1675 at Massachusetts.²
     He left a will signed 22 January 1695 at Massachusetts in which.² His will was proved on 27 April 1696 at Massachusetts; the inventory was valued at 65.15 pounds.²

     
     Allan married Debra Ann Madel (her second marriage), daughter of Thomas Allen Madel and Joan Marie Luttrell, circa 1981 at Missouri.

     
     He lived with his parents, Marie and Joseph, between 1830 and 1842 in Felsenbach, Guebwiller canton, départment of Haut-Rhin, France.^1,2,3      Nicholas Frank, son of Joseph Frank and Marie Anne Erny, was born on 15 March 1842 in Haut-Rhin at four o'clock in the morning.^1,4,5 His birth was registered by Xavier Thomas, Mayor and civil registrar on 15 March 1842 at Lautenbachzell, Guebwiller canton, départment of Haut-Rhin, France, witnesses were Richard Marek, a 45-year-old lumberjack from Felzenbach and Joseph Andres, a 68-year-old school teacher of Lautenbachzell.¹
     Nicholas Frank and Joseph Frank were found in the passenger list for the George Hurlbut arriving at the port of New York on 2 February 1859. The ship had departed from the port of Le Havre, France.⁶ The George Hurlbut was a 3-masted, square-rigged ship, 1047 tons, built in Essex, Connecticut in 1850, and registered at New York on 23 December 1850. She sailed originally in the Hurlbut Line between Havre and New York, with the winter crossing (between December and March) from Havre to New Orleans, until mid-1854, when she was transferred to Hurlbut's Antwerp-New York service. In 1856, Ezra D. Post, master, she was advertized as sailing in Tapscott's Line of New York-Liverpool packets, and in 1859, Thomas S. (or L.) Masson, master, as sailing in the Post Line of New York-Mobile packets and in the Stanton & Thompson Line of New York-New Orleans packets.⁷
     Nicholas Frank and Joseph Frank immigrated on 2 February 1859 to New York, New York County, New York, from France.^6,8,9,10
     Nicholas was enumerated as the brother of Joseph Frank on the 1860 U. S. Census for Liberty Township, Cole County, Missouri. He was listed as a 60-year-old white male born in Germany and employed as a laborer. Age should have been 18.¹¹
     Nicholas Frank served from 19 June 1861 to 1 October 1861 in the Missouri Home Guard, Capt. McKinney's Co. (C), 1 Regiment U. S. R. C., stationed at Jefferson City, Missouri. He served as a private, being paid $30.94 on May 31, 1864.^12,13 The Cole County regiment of the Home Guard was organized in Missouri at large between June 11 and July 1, 1861, under the authority of General Lyon. They were involved in post duty at Jefferson City and guard and scout duty in Cole, Callaway, Miller, Moniteau and Osage Counties. They were at Osage Bridge from September 3 to October 1. The unit was disbanded on October 1, 1861.¹⁴
     Nicholas Frank enlisted in the Union Army on 26 March 1862 at Cole County, Missouri. At enlistment, he was 20 years old and enlisted for the duration of the war.^4,15
     Nicholas Frank was listed in a muster roll on 7 April 1862 Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. In his initial muster-in, he was assigned as a private in 5th Regiment Cavalry Volunteers, Company E, Captain Maus Company, Mounted Rifles, Missouri State Militia. This was the second organization of the regiment.^4,15
     The regiment was organized first at Saint Joseph, Missouri in March and April, 1862 and attached to District of Central Missouri, Department of Missouri, until February, 1863.
SERVICE.--Duty in Central District of Missouri till February, 1863. Operations in Carroll, Ray and Livingston Counties July 27-August 4, 1862. Grand River August 1. Near Barry Section August 14. Iron County September 11. Liberty and Sibley's Landing October 6 (Cos. "A," "B," "D" and "K"). California House October 18. Independence February 3, 1863, (See 5th Regiment State Militia Cavalry (New) for further service.) Regiment lost during service 21 Enlisted men killed and mortally wounded and 1 Officer and 47 Enlisted men by disease. Total 69.
The regiment was reorganized February 2, 1863, from 13th Regiment, State Militia Cavalry. Attached to District of Rolla, Department of Missouri, until June, 1863. District of the Border, Dept. of Missouri, until October, 1863. District of Rolla, Deppartment of Missouri, until muster Out.
SERVICE.--Independence, Mo., February 8.1863 (Cos. "C," "D." "F"). Blue Springs March 22. Independence March 23. Headquarters at Waynesville. Scouts from Waynesville June 20-23 (Co. "H"). Scout from Salem and skirmish July 3 (Co, "D"). Scout from Houston to Spring River Mills and skirmish August 6-11 (Cos. "B," "C," "F" and "G"). Jack's Ford August 14 (Detachment). Warrenaville August 25 (Detachment). Texas County September 11-12 (Detachment). Near Houston September 12 (Detachment). Near Salem September 13 (Cos. "C," "M"). Near Man's Creek October 14 (Detachment). King's House, near Waynesville, October 26 (Co. H). Scout from Houston to Jack's Fork November 4-6 (Cos. "B." "G," "I"). Scouts from Houston November 23-29 (Detachment), and December 9-19. Scouts from Salem December 26-29 (Cos. "C," "M"). Scout from Houston into Arkansas, with skirmishes February 5-17, 1864 (Detachment). Independence April 23. Scouts from Big Piney July 5-6. Scout in Shannon County July 18-21 (Detachment) - Rolia August 1. Scouts in Moniteau and Morgan Counties September 11-18 (Detachment), Scout in Texas County September 14-21 (Detachment). Thomasville September 18. Waynesviile September 30 (Co. "B"). Moreau Bottom, Jefferson City, October 7. Booneville October 9. Lexington October 19. Independence October 22. Big Blue and State Line October 22. Westport October 23. Engagement on the Marmiton, or battle of Charlot, October 25. Mine Creek, Little Osage River, Marias des Cygnes, October 25. Near Centreville November 2 (Co. "K"). Operations near Wayneaville December 1-3 (Detachment). Big Piney December 2 (Detachment). Scouting and escort duty in District of Rolla till July, 1865. McCartney's Mills January, 1865 (Detachment). Scout in Shannon County January 2-7 (Cos. "C," "D," "M"). Operations about Waynesyille January 16-22. Scouts from Salem and Licking to Spring River, Ark., and skirmishes February 23-March 2. Scouts from Waynesville to Hutton Valley, Rolla and Lebanon March 5-12. Near Rolla March 24 (Co. "E"). Mustered out July 8, 1865. Regiment inst during service 19 Enlisted men killed and mortally wounded and 2 Officers and 93 Enlisted men by disease. Total 114.¹⁶
     Nicholas Frank was listed in a muster roll from June 1862 to February 1865. Remarks made on Muster Roll: furnished own horse and equipment, valued between $100.00 and $140.00.⁴
     Nicholas Frank was released from active military duty on 6 April 1865 at Rolla, Phelps County, Missouri. At discharge he was a private in company E, 5th Regiment Missouri State Militia Cavalry. He had last been paid to October 31, 1864, and was due pay for the use and risk of his horse and equipment from June 8, 1864 to August 2, 1864. Valuation of the horse was $125.00 and horse equipment was $20.00. His clothing account had last been settled June 30, 1864 for $50.12.^4,15 He was the best man at the marriage of Joseph Frank and Mary Ann Hoffmeyer on 14 November 1865 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Taos, Cole County, Missouri; according to the rights of their church. Official Church record reads "Joseph Franck & Annam Hoffmeyer, cum Archiepiscopi Dispensatione ob 1 gradum Affinitatis coram Nicolao Franck & Francisce Eppenhoff in Matrimonio coran me contracto benedixi. F. N. Helias."^{17,18,19,20,21}
     Nicholas was enumerated with Nicholas Raithel on the 1870U. S. Census for Missouri. No relationship was stated. He was listed as a 26-year-old white male born in France. Both of his parents were foreign born. He was employed as a bar keeper and owned personal property valued at $300.00.⁵
     Nicholas married Elizabeth K. Raithel, daughter of John Adam Raithel and Margaret (?), on 4 October 1870 at Missouri. by Frederick Roetzer, Justice of the Peace.^22,15,23,24
     Nicholas Frank was listed as the head of a family on the 1873 City Census of Missouri. Based on ages, it is possible that the following were also living in the household: Joseph Nicholas Frank and George Charles Frank, free white males under five-years-old, Elizabeth K. Raithel, a free white female twenty and under thirty years old. An unidentified white male ten to eighteen years old was also residing with the family. Nicholas was listed as a saloon keeper born in Germany, between the ages of twenty-one and forty-five.²⁵
     Nicholas Frank purchased land located at Main Street and Bolivar Street at Missouri on 1 March 1873 from Joseph Knaup and Gertrude Knaup, his wife.²⁶ This indenture, made on the First day of March A. D. One thousand eight hundred and seventy three, by and between Joseph Knaup and Gertrude Knaup of City of Jefferson, Cole County Missouri parties of the first part, and Nicholas Frank, of the County of Cole, in the State of Missouri, party of the Second part, witnesseth: That the said parties of the first part, in consideration of the sum of Two thousand one hundred & fifty ($2150.) Dollars to have in hand paid by the said party of the second part, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledge, do by these presents grant, bargain, and sell, convey and confirm, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns the following described lots, tracts, or parcels of land, lying, being and situate in the county of Cole and State of Missouri, to wit: All that part of in lot in the City of Jefferson numbered on the plat thereof thirty four (34). Beginning at a point on the northwest corner of Main and Bolivar Streets in said City and at the southeast corner of a 2 story brick and stone basement building situated on the said lot 34 thence along Main Street westwardly twenty-two (22) feet more or less to the west side of the wall of said brick building as now erected. Thence northwardly with the said building so as to include the same 40 feet more or less thence continuing northwardly in a direct line to a point distant from Bolivar St. 22 feet and Main St 80 feet in the most direct line. Thence eastwardly parallel with Main St twenty two feet thence southwardly along Bolivar St. so as to include said brick building Eighty five feet to the place of beginning.
Also giving and granting to said party of the second part his heirs and assigns the right to use and enjoy a private alley on the north end of the property hereby conveyed five feet in width and extending the full length of the same forever. To have and to hold the premised aforesaid, with all and singular the rights, privileges, appurtenances and immunities thereto belonging, or in anywise appertaining, unto the said party of the second part, and unto his heirs and assigns forever; the said Joseph Knaup hereby convenanting that he is lawfully seized of an indefeasible estate in fee in the promises herein conveyed that he has good right ot convey the same; that the said premises are free and clear of any emcumbrances done or suffered by him or those under whom he claim; and that he will warrant and defend the title to the said premises unto the said party of the second part, and unto his heirs and assigns forever, against the lawful claims and demands of all persons whomsoever. In witness whereof, the said parties of the first part have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written. Signed, sealed and delivered in presence of us. Signed Joseph Knaup and Gertrude Knaup.²⁶
     Nicholas was a saloon owner in 1876 at 702 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.²⁷
     The saloon that Nicholas purchased in 1873 is pictured in this photo of the "West End Saloon". The photo appears to have been taken somewhere between 1865 and 1875. At the northwest corner of Main and Bolivar, (the current home of Pat's Place) there was a neighborhood bar that was known, at least informally, as "The First Chance, Last Chance Saloon." This name referred to the fact that the bar, which stood just south of the entrance/exit to the Missouri River Bridge, represented the traveler's first chance to purchase liquor after crossing from "dry" Callaway County and the last chance before leaving "wet" Cole County. Late nineteenth century Missourian's consumption of alcohol was regulated by a "local option" law that allowed local residents to decide by majority vote whether to allow the sale of liquor.²⁸
     Nicholas was a saloon owner in 1879 at 127 East High Street, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.²⁹
     Elizabeth and Nicholas Frank lived in 1880 at 702 West Main Street in Missouri. Residing with them were, their children Joseph, George, Leona, Julius and Wilhelminia.³⁰
     Nicholas is a head of household, under the name of "Nick Frank", on the 1880 U. S. Census for 702 West Main Street, Missouri. He was identified as a 38-year-old married white male born in Elsas, employed keeping a saloon. Both his parents were born in Elsas. Enumerated with him were: his wife, Elizabeth K., his sons Joseph Nicholas, George Charles and Julius Emil, his daughter Leona Margaretha, his daughters Wilhelminia Katherine.³⁰
     Nicholas was the owner of a billiard saloon in 1881 at 702 West Main Street, Missouri. In a telephone conversation with Georgia Mae Ferguson on February 28, 1999, she stated: What is currently "Pat's Place" in Jefferson City, at 702 West Main Street, was called "Goodins" when she was young. It had a "first chance" and "last chance" sign for those crossing the bridge over the Missouri River, because Cedar City was "dry". The bridge was located at that time on Bolivar Street. Pat's Place is the saloon sold in the estate of Nicholas Frank in 1882.³¹
     Nicholas died on 12 September 1881 in Missouri at age 39. The cause of his death was congestion of the brain (probably a stroke or cerebral hemorrhage).^32,15,33 His obituary was published in the Jefferson City Peoples Tribune Newspaper on 14 September 1881.³² His obituary stated:

³² He was buried in 1000-1022 East McCarty Street in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, in Row 1A, lot 133 in Woodland Cemetery. The tombstone is inscribed "Nickolas Frank, Co. E, 5th Mo. S. M. Cav."³⁴

Nicholas Frank Tombstone.

     When the estate of Nicholas Frank was probated, Elizabeth K. Raithel on 17 September 1881 renounced all rights to administration of his estate.³⁵ The renunciation stated "I, Elisabeth a widow of Nic. Frank, late of City of Jefferson, Missouri, deceased, do hereby relinquish and renounce all right, claims and preference which I may have to administer upon the estate of the said Nic. Frank, deceased this the (blank) day of September, 1881."³⁵
     Nicholas Frank died intestate and John Adam Raithel was on 19 September 1881 at Probate Court, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.³⁵ After the probate of his estate was filed, an inventory was taken on 21 September 1881. John Adam Raithel prepared the inventory. Philipp Ott and Joseph were witness appointed to aid in making the inventory.³⁵ The inventory of the estate included:

Inventory of all the real and personal estate of Nicholas Frank,deceased, late of Cole County, Missouri, describing the property, situation and title to the real estate, the books and papers, the debts due to the deceased, the names of the debtors, the dates of the contracts, the amount of interest due, and the rate of interest thereon, and all personal property of whatever character. Made by John a Raithel, administrator of said deceased, and Philipp Ott and Joseph Stampfli, witnesses appointed to aid in making the same.

Dated at City of Jefferson, Missouri, this 21st day of September 1881

Real estates-as follows

In-lot in the City of Jefferson number thirty four [34] beginning at ? of Main and Bolivar Streets, along Main St. westwardly 22 ft. thence eastwardly 40 ft……….

Also, personal property, goods, and chattels- as follows

13 Assorted beer glasses

6 Stein beer glasses

23 Assorted glasses

10 Pony glasses

1 Honey pitche

1 Copper Tray

50 Cigars

4 Champagne glasses

1 Spoon holder

7 Sugar spoons

1 Glass sugar bowl

12 bottles & contents of liquor

10 decanters & contents

4 Flower vases

1 Sett??? Measurers

1 Ice box

1 Clock

3 Mirrors

8 Pictures

28 Chairs

5 Bar tables

1 Counter & shelves

1 Hat rack

2 Stoves

7 Bottles champagne

20 Bottles cider

1 Lot empty whiskey jugs & wine bottles

8 Whiskey kegs

10 gallon rum punch

2 ½ gallon rum

1 gallon Hochstellar??? Bitters

1 gallon ginger brandy

2 bung augers

2 beer faucets

1 gold watch.35

After the probate of his estate was filed, an inventory was taken on 21 September 1881. Appraisers were Joseph Stampfli, Phillip Ott, and Michael Busch.³⁵ The inventory of the estate included:

Affidavit of Appraisers

This is to certify that Joe Stampfli, Phil Ott and Michael Busch On their oath say that they are not interested nor of kin to any person interested in the estate of Nicholas Frank, deceased, late of Cole County, Missouri, as heir or devisee, and they will, to the best of their ability, appraise the goods, chattels, and other personal property to them produced by John Adam Raithel, Jr. Administrator of said Nicholas Frank, decease

Appraisement

Appraisement of all and singular, the goods, chattels and other personal estate of Nicholas Frank, deceased, late of Cole County, Missouri, produced before the undersigned Joseph Stampfli, Phillip Ott and Michael Busch, appraisers duly qualified, this 21st day of Sept, 1881 by John A. Raithel, __ administrator of said Nicholas Frank, deceased.

Description of property

     

	Appraised value
		Dollars cents
13 Assorted beer glasses	5	.65
5 Stem beer glasses>	8	.40
10 Pony glasses		.75
23 Assorted glasses	7	1.61
1 Honey pitcher
1 Copper ? tray		.50
50 Cigars		1.60
4 Champagne glasses	4	.40
1 Spoon holder		.10
7 Sugar spoons		.10
1 Sugar bowl		.20
12 Bottles and contents of liquor		3.50
10 Decanters and contents		2.00
4 Flower vases		1.50
1 Set ? measurers		.50
1 Ice box		5.00
1 Clock		4.00
3 Mirrors		5.00
8 Pictures		2.00
28 Chairs		8.40
5 Bar tables		5.00
1 Counter and shelving		25.00
1 Hat rack		.50
2 Stoves		7.00
7 Bottles champagne		3.50
20 Bottles cider		2.00
1 Lot empty whiskey jugs and wine bottles		5.00
8 Whiskey kegs		2.00
10 Gallon rum punch		7.50
2 ½ Gallon rum		2.50
1 Gallon ? bitters		1.99
1 Gallon ginger brandy		.10
2 Bung ?auger		.35
2 Bar faucets		2.99
1 Gold watch		10.00
		______
Total amount of appraisement		112.51.35

     John Adam Raithel petitioned at Probate Court, Missouri, on 26 January 1882 for permission to sell real estate included in the estate of Nicholas Frank.³⁵ The petititon stated an in-lot in the City of Jefferson, Missouri on the plat thereof thirty-four (34) beginning at a point on the northwest corner of Main and Boliver Streets in said City and at the southeast corner of a two (2) story brick and stone basement building situated on the said lot 34, thence along Main Street westernly twenty two (22) feet, more or less to the west side of the wall of said brick building as now erected, thence northwardly with the said building so as to include the same 40 feet more or less, thence continuing northwardly in a direct line to a point distant from Bolivar street twenty two (22) feet and Main street 85 feet (in the most direct line) thence eastwardly parallel with Main Street twenty two (22) feet thence southwardly, along Boliver St. so as to include said brick building eighty feet to the place of beginning.
     Also included in this petition: the debts as far as we know to your petitions are as follows
One note executed to Fred Fisher and secured by deed of trust on the within described property for one thousand dollars.
One note held by John Peter Raithel secured by a deed of trust on the same property for three hundred and fifty-one dollars.
One note held by Chas Wezler for one hundred and ninety-five and 75/100 dollars.
Geo. Wagner account said to be about two hundred dollars.
Frantz and Bros account said to be about one hundred and seventy dollars.
If this or other debts they are not known to the administrator.³⁵


After the probate of his estate was filed, an inventory was taken on 3 June 1882; the appraisers were Joseph Stampfli, Fred Knaup and H. Burger. The property as described above was appraised at $1200.00.³⁵
     An interim settlement of his estate was filed on 15 November 1882 with Probate Court, Missouri, by the executor John Adam Raithel.³⁵ The settlement stated
Now, at this day comes John A Raithel, administrator of the estate of Nicholas Frank deceased and present his accounts and vouchers for first settlement and asks the same to be allowed as follows, viz:
No. of voucher     debit     credit

I received no assets from the estate the
Intestate having died insolvent, except
Such property as the widow was
Entitled to under the law.

I have paid out for the estate out of my
Own funds as follows on accounts:     
No 1 Stampfli and Kayes funeral expenses          45.00
No 2 E. W. Stewart barber account          2.50
No 3 Abe Hein account for burial clothing          7.00
No 4 Lewis Triber account for labor          3.00
No 5 State journal account for printing
Funeral notices and advertising notes of adm.          4.00
No 6 Martin Oster account digging grave          3.00
No 7 City taxes for 1880          9.50
No 8 State Eclipse Advertising Notice of Sale
Of Real Estate          7.00
No 9 State Eclipse Advertising order of court
To show cause why real estate should Not be sold to pay debts.          10.00
No 10 Probate court fees          15.25
          106.25
Amt paid out by adm. Out of his own funds          106.25
John A Raithel the above name adm on his oath state that in the above settlement he has charged himself with all the moneys and personal effects belonging to the Estate of said Nicholas Frank, decesd. That have come to his hands and not heretofore accounted for, and that the various amounts of the above credits have been by him paid out as stated, according to law and the order of the Probate Court of Cole County, Missouri, and the whole amount of ready money actually received by him as such administrator since his last settlement (or appointment)



                    John A Raithel
     Subscribed and Sworn to before me,
     This 15th day of November, 1882


               F. A. Clarenbach.³⁵

     John Adam Raithel reported the sale of real estate included in the estate of Nicholas Frank to the Probate Court, Missouri, on 15 November 1882. The property and conditions of sale were described as:      I DID ON Thursday the 14th day of August AD one thousand eight hundred and eighty-two between the hours of ten o'clockAM and five o'clock,pm, of that day at the front door of the court house, In the City of Jefferson in said County, and during the sitting of the Probate Court, held in and for Cole, said County, expose to sale at public auction, to the highest bidder, upon the terms mentioned in said order, the real estate above described, having first had the same duly appraised by Fred Knaup, H.Burger, and Joseph Stampfli, three disinterested householders of said county, they have been first duly sworn, as appears by the affidavit of said appraisers, and their certificate of appraisement hereby filed, marked exhibit A. And having given four weeks notice of the estate to be sold, and of the time, place and terms of sale, by advertisement published in the Dayly Eclipse a newspaper published in this state, as appears by the affidavit of ??? C J Gundelfinger the publisher thereof, herewith filed, marked Exhibit B.      And at said sale, as aforesaid, John P Raithel was the highest and best bidder for all of said Real Estate, at the price and sum of One Hundred and five ~xx dollars, and the same was stricken off to him, it being described as follows, to wit:
     In-lot in the City of Jefferson, Missouri on the plat thereof thirty-four (34) beginning at a point on the northwest corner of Main and Boliver Streets in said city and at the south east corner of a two (2) story brick and stone basement building situated on the said lot 34, thence along Main Street westernly twenty two (22) feet, more or less to the west side of the wall of said brick building as now erected, thence northwardly with the said building so as to include the ?same 40 feet more or less, thence continuing northwardly in a direct line to a point distat from ?Bolivar Street twenty two (22) feet and Main Street 85 (in the most direct line) thence eastwardly parallel with Main Street twenty two (22) feet thence southwardly, along Boliver St so as to include said brick building eighty feet to the place of beginning.
     And the said John P Raithel has fully complied with the terms of said sale except the payment of the money which he will do on the approval of the report of sale.³⁵



     On May 19, 1884, John A. Raithel, Administrator of the Estate of Nicholas Frank, filed proof with the Probate Court that he had published notice of the final settlement.
Affidavit of Publisher A. O. Shoup being duly sworn according to law, says that he is the publisher of the People's Tribune, a newspaper printed and published in the County of Cole, State aforesaid and that the notice hereto annexed was published in said paper for four weeks consecutive, as follows:
1st insertion, No. 12, Vol. 18 9TH day of March, 1884
2nd insertion, NO. 13, Vol. 18 26th day of March, 1884
3rd insertion, No. 14, Vol. 18 2nd day of April, 1884
4th insertion, No. 15, Vol. 18 9th day of April, 1884
A.     O. Shoup, publisher.³⁵



     After closing out his estate, the final settlement was filed on 5 September 1884 with Probate Court, Missouri, by the executor John Adam Raithel.³⁵ The settlement stated
Now, at this day, comes John A Raithel Administrator of the Estate of Nicholas Frank, deceased and present is accounts and vouchers for final settlement and asks the same to be allowed - as follows, viz:
     By amt. as shown by last settlement
Paid out of his own funds and due
Him from the estate          106.25
     To amt. recd from sale of real estate     105.00
     By amt pd Edward and Davison attys.          20.00
     Amt pd Tribune Printing Company for
Notice of Final settlement          2.50
     To amt due Administrator for cash
     Paid out of his own funds          23.75
     128.75     128.75
     Amt due Administrator as above shown:           23.75
     John A Raithel, the above named Adm. On his oath state that in the above settlement he has charged himself with all the moneys and personal effects belonging to the estate of said Nikolas? Frank decd. That have come to his hands, and not heretofore accounted for, and that thevarious amounts of the above credits have been by him paid out as stated, according to law and the order of the Probate Court of Cole County, Missouri, and that the whole amount of ready money actually received is as above shown.³⁵ His widow, Elizabeth K. Frank, applied for a widow's pension on 24 July 1890, under the Pension Act of June 27, 1890, as the result of his service in the Civil War.¹⁵

          Elizabeth K. Raithel, daughter of John Adam Raithel and Margaret (?), was born on 29 January 1850 in Cole County, Missouri.^1,3,4
     She was enumerated with her parent John Adam Raithel on the 1850 U. S. Census for Missouri. She was listed as a three-month-old white female born in Missouri.³
     She was enumerated with her parent John Adam Raithel under the name of "Elizabeth Ridle" on the 1860 U. S. Census for Jefferson Township, Cole County, Missouri. She was listed as a ten-year-old white female born in Missouri and had attended school during the year.⁵
     Elizabeth was enumerated with her parent John Adam Raithel under the name of "Elizabeth Raitchel" on the 1870 U. S. Census for Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. She was listed as an 18-year-old white female born in Missouri. Both her parents were foreign born.⁶
     Elizabeth married Nicholas Frank, son of Joseph Frank and Marie Anne Erny, on 4 October 1870 at Missouri. by Frederick Roetzer, Justice of the Peace.^7,8,9,10
     Based on age, Elizabeth K. Raithel was probably listed on the 1873 U.S. Census at Missouri as a free white female, twenty and under thirty years old and residing with Nicholas Frank.¹¹
     Elizabeth and Nicholas Frank lived in 1880 at 702 West Main Street in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. Residing with them were, their children Joseph, George, Leona, Julius and Wilhelminia.¹²
     Elizabeth was enumerated as the wife of Nicholas Frank under the name of "Elisabeth Frank" on the 1880 U. S. Census for 702 West Main Street, Missouri. She was listed as a married 30-year-old white female born in Missouri who was keeping house. Both of her parents were born in Bavaria.¹² The renunciation stated "I, Elisabeth a widow of Nic. Frank, late of City of Jefferson, Missouri, deceased, do hereby relinquish and renounce all right, claims and preference which I may have to administer upon the estate of the said Nic. Frank, deceased this the (blank) day of September, 1881."¹³
     Elizabeth K. Raithel renounced all rights to administration of the estate of Nicholas Frank on 17 September 1881. John Adam Raithel was named in her place.¹³ Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1890 at 309 Walnut Street in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri.^14,8
     Elizabeth K. Raithel appeared as a widow in the the Special Schedule - Surviving Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines, and Widows, etc. of the 1890 U.S. Census of Missouri her husband, Nicholas Frank, had served as a bugler in Company E of the 5th Mounted Missouri Cavalry from March 26, 1862 until April 6, 1865.¹⁴ She applied for a widow's pension on 24 July 1890, under the Pension Act of June 27, 1890, as the result of her husband's service in the Civil War. The witnesses included Elizabeth K. Frank.⁸ The text of the Declaration for Widow's Pension stated: State of Missouri
County of Cole
On this 24th day of July, A. D. one thousand eight hundred and ninety, personally appeared before me, W. H. Lusk, Clerk of the Circuit Court, the same being a Court of Record within and for the county and State aforesaid Elisabeth Frank aged Forty, years a resident of the City of Jefferson County of Cole State of Missouri, who., being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of Nickolas Frank who enlisted under the name of Nickolas Frank at Jefferson City Mo, on the twenty-sixth day of March A. D. 1862, in Company "E", 5th Regiment Missouri State Malitia (MSM) and served at least ninety days in the service of the United States, in the late War of the Rebellion who was honorably discharged April 6th 1865, and died September 12th 1881. That she was married under the name of Elisabeth Raithel, to said Nickolas Frank, on the fourth day of October 1870, by Frederick Roetzer, Justice of the Peace, at Jefferson City Mo, there being no legal barrier to said marriage. That she has not re-married since the death of the said Nickolas Frank. That she is without other means of support than her daily labor. That name and dates of birth of all the children now living under sixteen years of age of the soldier are as follows:
Leona M., born June 30th, 1875
Julius E., born July 28th, 1877
Wilhelmina C, born October 29th, 1879
That she has never heretofore applied for pension. That she makes this declaration for the purpose of being placed on the pension roll of the United States under the provisions of the Act of June 27, 1890. She hereby appoints J. N. Steininger of Jefferson City her true and lawful attorney to prosecute her claim and agrees to pay him a fee of ten dollars. That her post-office address is 309 Walnut Str. Jefferson City, County of Cole, State of Missouri.
Claimant's signature Elisabeth Frank
Attest: Lawrence N. Raithel
August Kroeger

Also personally appeared Laurence N. Raithel, residing at Jefferson City, Mo. and August Kroeger, residing at Jefferson City, Mo., persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who, being by me duly sworn, say they were present and saw Elizabeth Frank, the Claimant, sign her name to the foregoing declaration; that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of said claimant and their acquaintance with her for 16 years and 20 years respectively, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be; and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim.
Signature of witness:
Laurence N. Raithel
August Kroeger
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 24 day of July, A. D. 1890, and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration, etc., were fully made known and explained to the applicat and witnesses before swearing, including the words "or make her mark" erased, and the words "blank" added; and that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim.
Signature: W. H. Lusk Clerk
Official character:(unreadable).⁸ Her filed a correct extract from the Baptismal Records of St. Peter's Church at Jefferson City, Missouri, which listed the birth and Baptismal records of Elizabeth's three youngest children, compiled by J. S. Hoog, pastor., in connection with her application for a military pension based on her husband's service in the Civil War.⁸ Her filed a true and complete copy of the original marriage of Mr. Nick Frank and Miss Elizabeth Raithel, certified by the Circuit Court Clerk., in connection with her application for a military pension based on her husband's service in the Civil War.⁸ Her application for a widow's pension as the result of her husband's service in the Civil War was approved, commencing on 28 July 1890.⁸ The text of the pension application approval stated: No. 283407: Rate per month $8.00 commencing July 28, 1890. Additional sum of $2.00 per month for each of the following children, until arriving at the age of 16 years, commencing July 28, 1890: Leona M., Julius E., Wilhelmina C..⁸ Her filed an affidavit, in connection with her application for a military pension based on her husband's service in the Civil War on 10 January 1891.⁸ The text of the affidavit stated: State of Missouri
County of Cole
On this 10th day of January A. D. 1891 personally appeared before me Clerk of the Circuit Court, a Court of record within and for the County and State aforesaid Henry Burger and Frederick Knaup, aged 76 and 60 years respectively, residents of the City of Jefferson, County of Cole and State of Missouri, who being by me duly sworn according to law declares that they have known the late Nicholas Frank, and Elizabeth Frank all of their lives. That the said Nicholas Frank was never married previous to his marriage with Elizabeth Raithel, and Elizabeth Raithel was never married previous to her marriage with Nicholas Frank, and Elizabeth Frank has not remarried since the death of Nicholas Frank in September 1881. that the Children of the said Nicholas Frank, who were under the age of Sixteen years at the time of filing the claim are Leona M., Julius E., and WIlhelmina K. and the three are still living and are under the protection of the said Elizabeth Frank. And they further declare that they know from their personal knowledge that the said Elizabeth Frank has no other means of support than her daily labor that she is not in possession of property from which she can derive any support, the reason they know is because they have known her from her childhood up. That their Post Office address is Jefferson City in the County of Cole, State of Missouri.
Henry Burger
Fred Knaup

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 10th day of January A. D. 1891, and I hereby certify that Henry Burger and Frederick Knaup are respectable persons, and entitled to credit, and that the contents of the above declaration were fully made known and explained to them before the swearing, and I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of the claim of Elizabeth Frank.
W. H. Lusk, Clerk Circuit Court.⁸ Her filed an affidavit, in connection with her application for a military pension based on her husband's service in the Civil War.⁸ The text of the affidavit stated:
State of Missouri
County of Cole
On this 12th day of January A. D., personally appeared before me, Clerk of the Circuit Court, a Court of record within and for the County and State aforesaid, Joseph Stampfli, who being duly sworn according to law, declares and says that he is in the Business of Undertaker in the City of Jefferson, in the County of Cole, and State of Missouri, and he further declares that he was well acquainted with Nicholas Frank, late of Company "E" 5th M.S.M. Cav, during his lifetime and who died on the 12th day of September 1881, and he further declares and says that he as undertaker had charge of the body of the said Nicholas Frank, and he viewed the body previous to its burial, and that it was the identical body of the said Nicholas Frank, who served as a Soldier in the late war of Rebellion, and that he was the Husband of the Claimant Elizabeth Frank, his surviving widow, and he further declare that he is well acquainted with Mrs. Elizabeth Frank, the claimant, and to his personal knowledge she has no other means of support than her own daily labor, that she is not possessed of any property from which she could derive any support. That his Post Office address is Jefferson City, Mo, that he has been acquainted with the claimant for 20 years, and he is not interested in the claim of the said Elizabeth Frank.
Jos. Stampfli

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 12th day of January A. D. 1891, and thereby certify that Joseph Stampfli is a respectable person, and entitled to credit, and that the contents of the above declaration were fully made known and explained to him before swearing, and that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim of Mrs. Elizabeth Frank.
W. H. Lusk, Clerk
Circuit Court Cole Co MO.⁸

     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1900 at 220a East High Street in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. Residing with them were, their children Joseph and Leona listed as a widow..¹⁵
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1900 at 310 Jackson Street in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. Residing with them were, their children Joseph, Leona and Wilhelminia.¹⁶
     Elizabeth is a head of household, under the name of "Elizabeth Frank", on the 1900 U. S. Census for Jefferson Township, Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri. She was identified as a 50-year-old white female born in Missouri in January 1850. She was a widow with five children, all living and could read, write and speak English. Enumerated with her were:, her son Joseph Nicholas, her married daughter Wilhelminia Katherine "Minnie" Frank, her daughters Leona Margaretha, her son-in-law Nicholas M. Speedy.¹⁶
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1903 at 2746A Rutger in St. Louis, Missouri. Residing with them were, their children George and Leona listed as "widow of Nicholas".¹⁷
     In telephone conversation with Georgia Mae Ferguson on April 1, 2000: she stated that Elizabeth and Ottie living at this time in St. Louis, were visited almost every weekend by Joseph Frank, who came down on the train.¹⁸
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived between 1904 and 1908 at 2614 Geyer Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri. Residing with them were, their children George and Leona listed as "widow of Nicholas".^{19,20,21,22,23,8} She applied for a widow's pension on 28 April 1908, under the Pension Act of April 19, 1908, as the result of her husband's service in the Civil War. The witnesses included Elizabeth K. Raithel.⁸ The text of Declaration for Widow's Pension Act of April 19, 1908 stated:
State of Missouri
City of St. Louis
On this 28th day of April A. D. 1908, personally appeared before me, a Notary Public within and for the City and State aforesaid, Elizabeth Frank aged 58 years, a resident of No. 2614 Geyer Ave. City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, who, being duly sworn according to law, makes the following declaration for the purpose of being placed on the pension roll of the United States under the provisions of the Act of April 19, 1908. That she is the widow of Nicholas Frank, who was a Private Co. "E" 5th Reg't Mo State Militia Vol Cav and served at least ninety days during the War of the Rebellion, in the service of the United States and was honorably discharged, and who died at Jefferson City, Cole Co. Mo. on the 12th day of September 1881. That she was married under the name of Elizabeth Raithel to said soldier at Jefferson City, Cole CO. MO., on the 4th day of Oct 1870, by Squire Ruttger, that there was no legal barried to the marriage; that she had not been previously married; that the soldier had not been previously married. That she has not remarried since the death of said soldier. That she is now receiving a pension of $8.00 per month, from the United States, under pension Certificate No. 283407 that she is duly enrolled at the Topeka Kansas Agency, and that her Post Office address is NO. 2414 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, Mo.

Claimant's signature
Elizabeth Frank

Also personally appeared Tillie Heinrichs, residing at No. 716 Carpenter Place, City of St. Louis, Mo., and Kate Heinrichs residing at 716 Carpenter Place, City of St. Louis, MO., persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who, being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Elizabeth Frank, the Claimant, sign her name, to the foregoing declaration; that they have every reason to believe, from the appearance of the claimant and their acquaintance with her of 15 years and 30 years, respectively, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be; and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim.

Tillie Heinrichs
Kate Heinrichs

Subscribed and sworn to before me this 28th day of April A. D. 1908, and I hereby certify that the contents of the above declaration, etc., were fully made known and explained to the applicant and witnesses before swearing and that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim.
My term expires December 1, 1909
Aug G. Nahm Notary Public, City of St. Louis, Mo.⁸
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1909 at 2614 Geyer Avenue in Missouri. Residing with them were, their children George listed as "widow of Nicholas".²⁴
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1910 at South Jefferson Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri. Residing with them were, their children Leona.²⁵
     Elizabeth is a head of household on the 1910 U. S. Census for St. Louis, Missouri, as "Elisabeth Frank" she was listed as a 60-year-old widowed white female born in Missouri. Both of her parents were born in Germany. She had five children, all still living. As an occupation she listed "own income.". Enumerated with her was her daughter Leona Margaretha.²⁵ Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1911 at 2232a South Jefferson Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri, listed as "widow of Nicholas."²⁶
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1912 at 2232a South Jefferson Avenue in Missouri. Residing with them were, their children George and Leona listed as "widow of Nicholas".²⁷
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived in 1914 at 3614 Shenandoah Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri. Residing with them were, their children Leona and George listed as "widow of Nicholas".²⁸
     Elizabeth K. Raithel lived between 1915 and 1916 at 3614 Shenandoah Avenue in Missouri. Residing with them were, their children Leona listed as "widow of Nicholas".^29,30 Her cause of death was gall stones complicated by carcinoma of gall bladder and liver. According to Dr. W.A. Clark on her death certificate, the cause of death was abscess of the liver.^1,8 Her obituary was published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch Newspaper on 30 April 1916.³¹ Her obituary stated:

³¹
     Her funeral service was held on 1 May 1916 at 1201 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Missouri, at the home of Nick Speedy the service was performed by Reverend Paul Stoerker.^32,33,31 Elizabeth K. Raithel was buried on 1 May 1916 in Woodland Cemetery in Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, in Row 1A, Lot 133. Inscription reads "Mother, Elizabeth K. Frank, Jan. 29, 1850, April 29, 1916."^34,8,1

Elizabeth K. Frank Tombstone
; Elizabeth K. Raithel Tombstone.
     A letter from the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Pensions states that Elizabeth Frank's pension, certificate 283407, has been dropped from the roll because of her death. Another letter, this addressed to the Chief, Finance Division states that Elizabeth Frank's pension check dated May 4, 1916, has been returned by the Post Office because of her death. Said check has been canceled.⁸
     George C. Frank applied for Reimbursement from her pension to pay for the last sickness and burial of Elizabeth Frank.⁸
The text of the Application for Reimbursement stated: State of Missouri
County of Cole
On this 3rd day of July, A. D. on thousand nine hundred and sixteen, personally appeared before me, a Notary Public within and for the County and State aforesaid, George C. Frank, aged (blank) years, a resident of Jefferson City, County of Cole, State of Missouri, who. being duly sworn according to law, makes the following declaration in order to obtain reimbursement from the accrued pension for expenses paid (or obligation incurred) in the last sickness and burial of Elizabeth Frank, who was a pensioner of the United States by certificate No. 283407, on account of the service of Nickolas Frank in Co. E, 5th Regiment of Mo State Militia Vol. Cav.. That pension was last paid to February, 1916.
That the answers to questions propounded below are full, complete, and truthful to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief, and that no evidence necessary to a proper adjustment of all claims against the accrued pension is suppressed or withheld.
1. What was the full name of the deceased pensioner? Elizabeth Frank
2. In what capacity was decendent pensioned? Widow
3. If decedent was pensioned as an invalid soldier or sailor--
(a) Was he ever married? blank
(b) How many times, and to whom? blank
(c) If married, did his wife survive him? blank
(d) If so, is she still living? blank
(e) If not living, give full names and dates of death of all wives blank
(f) Was he ever divorced? blank
(g) If so, is the divorced wife still living? blank
(h) If not living, give her full name and the date of her death blank
4. Did pensioner leave a child under 16 years of age? No
5. Is any such child still living? No
6. Were any sick or death benefits paid on pensioner's account? If so, give name of society and amount paid: except as stated.
7. Was there insurance ( life, accident, or health) in force on life of pensioner at time of death? Yes
8. If so, give the name of each company in which a policy was carried and the amount in which each policy was written: The Prudential Insurance Co. of America $153.72
9. Who was the beneficiary named in each policy? Her children
10. What was the relation of each beneficiary to the pensioner? Daughters and Sons
11. Were the premiums paid by the deceased pensioner? Yes
12. If not paid by the deceased pensioner, state the amount of premiums paid by each person who made payment on that account blank
13. Is there an executor or administrator, or will application be made for appointment of any person as administrator? None
14. Did the deceased pensioner leave any money, real estate, or personal property? $75.00 Household goods
15. If so, state the character and value of all such property blank
16. What was the assessed value (last assessment) of real estate ? None
17. How was the pensioner's property disposed of? blank
18. Did pensioner leave an unindorsed pension check? None (except the one May 4-16)
19. What was your relation to the deceased pensioner? Son
20. Are you married? No
21. What was the cause of pensioner's death? Gallstones
22. When did the pensioner's last sickness begin? March 21-1916
23. From what date did the pensioner become so ill as to require the regular and daily attendance of another person constantly until death? March 21-1916
24. Give the name and post-office address of each physician who attended the pensioner during last sickness Dr. W. A. Clark, Jefferson City Mo Trust Co. Bldg, Dr. Willard Bartlett, Grand & Olive St. Louis Mo.
25. State the names of the persons by whom the pensioner was nursed during the last sickness Sister Germain, St. Mary's Hospital, Miss Esther Slanker
26. Where did the pensioner live during the last sickness? 1201 W. Main St. and St. Mary's Hospital
27. Where did the pensioner die? St. Mary's Hospital
28. When did the pensioner die? April 29-1916
29. Where was the pensioner buried? Woodlawn Cemetary, Jefferson City Mo.
30. Has there been paid, or will application be made for payment to you or any other person, any part of the expenses of the pensioner's last sickness and burial by any State, County, or municipal corporation? No
31.State below the expenses of the pensioner's last sickness and burial. Write the word none where no charge is made in case of any item of expense noted. ( Each charge entered below should be supported by an itemized bill of the person who rendered the service or furnished any supplies for which reimbursement is demanded, and should show, over his signature, by whom paid, or who is held responsible for payment, and contain the name of the pensioner for whom the expense was incurred or service rendered.)
Dr. Willard Bartlett     Physician     Paid     $200.00
Dr. W. A. Clark     Physician     unpaid     $38.50
     Medicine     None
St. Mary's Hospital     Nursing and Care     Paid     $53.28
Esther Slanker     Nursing and Care     Paid     $43.75
Walther Wymore     Undertaker     unpaid     $208.75
     Total     $544.28
32. Is the above a complete list of all the expenses of the last sickness and burial of the deceased pensioner? Yes

That my post-office address is No. 1201, on West Main street, town or city of Jefferson City, County of Cole, State of Missouri
Claimant's signature in full: George C. Frank

Also appeared Nick M. Speedy and Fred N. Raithel who, being duly sworn, say that they saw George C. Frank, the claimant, sign his name to this application; that they know the claimant herein and that their answers to the following questions are true:
1. Did pension (if a soldier or sailor) leave a widow or a minor child under age of sixteen years surviving? blank
2. When did the pensioner die? April 29, 1916
3. Did pensioner leave any property? If so, state its character and value Household goods as listed before, in value of $75.00
4. We knew pensioner 30 years. We believe above statements to be true because we were personally acquainted with pensioner.
Name Nick M. Speedy
P. O. Address Jefferson City Mo
Name Fred N. Raithel
P. O. Address Jefferson City Mo
Subscribed and sworn to before me, this 3rd day of July A. D. 1916; and I certify that the contents of the foregoing application were fully made known and explained to the claimant and witnesses before swearing, that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim, and I further certify that the reputation for credibility of the witness whose signatures appear above is excellent.
Signature August Bauer
Official character Notary Public

Statement of Attending Physicians
Give date of the pensioner's death April 29th 1916
Give date of commencement of pensioner's last sickness March 16 1916
From what date did the pensioner require the regular and daily attendance of another person constantly until death? March 21st 1916
During what period did you attend the pensioner? From Mar. 16 1916 to April 29, 1916
State nature of disease from which pensioner died Gall stones complicated by Carcinoma of gall bladder and liver
Give name of each person who rendered service as nurse, and who has made or will make a charge for such service Miss Esther Slanker
Give name of any other physician who attended the pensioner in last sickness Willard Bartlett, St Louis
Does your bill include a charge for all medicine furnished the pensioner during last sickness? No
Has your bill been paid; if so, by whom? No
Mention any other facts within your knowledge which in your opinion would be helpful in adjusting this claim for reimbursement: blank

I certify that the foregoing statement is correct
June 10, 1916 W. A. Clark attending physician
June 17, 1916 Willard Bartlett attending physician.⁸

          Maria Magdalena Catharina "Lena" Mertens, daughter of Johann H. "John" Mertens and Maria Christina "Mary" Scheulen, was born on 18 April 1860 in Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri.¹ She was baptized on 6 May 1860 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri.¹
     Maria married Martin Dauer in 1880 at St. Thomas, Cole County, Missouri.¹ Maria Magdalena Catharina "Lena" Mertens was ill with Lena suffered from severe rheumatism in later life. circa 1900.²
     Maria was enumerated as the sister of Theodore Mertens under the name of "Lena Dauer" on the 1930 U.S. Census at Osage Township, Cole County, Missouri, she is listed as a 70-year-old white widowed female. She has not attended school, and is able to read, write, and speak English. Both she and her parents are listed as being born in Missouri. She had no occupation listed.³
     Maria died in March 1932 in St. Louis, Missouri, at age 71 She was living with her sister Theresa Morrow in St. Louis when she died..¹

     She was baptized on 28 April 1874.¹
     Anna died on 1 September 1874 at Henry Joseph Mertens farm in Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri.¹ She was buried on 2 September 1874 in Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri.¹      Anna Elizabeth Mertens, daughter of Johann H. "John" Mertens and Maria Christina "Mary" Scheulen, was born on 8 September 1874 in Henry Joseph Mertens farm, Missouri.¹

          William Joseph Mertens, son of Johann H. "John" Mertens and Maria Christina "Mary" Scheulen, was born on 31 October 1861 in Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri.¹ He was baptized on 28 November 1861 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri, the sponsors included Henry Joseph Mertens and Anna Maria Scheulen the sponsors were Henry Mertens and Anna Scheulen.¹
     William married Mary M. Schnieders in June 1886 at Missouri.¹

          Anna Marie Christine Mertens, daughter of Johann H. "John" Mertens and Maria Christina "Mary" Scheulen, was born on 6 December 1863 in Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri.¹ She was baptized on 16 January 1864 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri, the sponsors included Christina Kluner Her godparent were Francis Otto and Christina Mertens..¹
     Anna married Francis Twehaus in 1890 at St. Thomas, Cole County, Missouri.¹

     She was baptized circa 1881 Her godparents were Benedict Groner and Maria Catherina Herx..      Anna Maria Gertrude "Gertie" Mertens, daughter of Johann H. "John" Mertens and Maria Christina "Mary" Scheulen, was born on 15 July 1881 in St. Thomas, Cole County, Missouri.¹ Anna Maria Gertrude "Gertie" Mertens lived after 1912 in Folk, Osage County, Missouri.¹
     Anna married Ben Krummen in October 1912 at Missouri.¹ Anna Maria Gertrude "Gertie" Mertens was buried in St. Ann Cemetery in Folk, Osage County, Missouri.¹

          James Knapp, son of William Knapp and Judith Tue, was born in 1627.²
     James married Elizabeth Warren.²
     James Knapp adm. freeman, read, took oath of fidelity in 1652.²
     He was one of the original proprietors of Graton; was a Sergeant and was one of the four men to whom a grant was made to encourage the building of a mill in Groton.³

          Maria Margaret "Mary" Mertens, daughter of Johann H. "John" Mertens and Maria Christina "Mary" Scheulen, was born on 30 October 1869 in Henry Joseph Mertens farm, Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri.¹ Conflicting evidence placed her birth.² She was baptized on 1 December 1869 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Westphalia, Osage County, Missouri, Her godparents were John Henry Shepers and Maria Luckenhof..¹
     Maria married Henry J. Cassmeyer in January 1891 at Missouri.¹
     Maria Margaret "Mary" Mertens was a sponsor for Edward Theodore Mertens's baptism on 22 July 1917 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Wardsville, Cole County, Missouri.³ Maria Margaret "Mary" Mertens was buried in 1953 in St. Margaret Catholic Church Cemetery in Osage Bend, Cole County, Missouri.²
     Maria died in 1953.²