Descendants of Philip and Lydia (Soveril) Case

The Genealogical Proof Standard: "A point may be considered ‘proved’ if five criteria are met: (a) the research is exhaustive; (b) the argument rests upon reliable records, correctly interpreted; (c) any contradictory evidence is soundly rebutted; (d) all statements of fact are scrupulously documented; and (e) all deductions are carefully reasoned and explained. However, any conclusion of ‘proof’ is subject to reevaluation if new and substantial evidence emerges to the contrary." ^a

Although I do try to adhere to the above, reevaluation always points out shortcomings in my research. I have found that writing these narratives helps me see my subjects' lives more clearly and my research flaws become obvious. There is little direct genealogical evidence available for the early Case families and conclusions reached through interpretation of indirect evidence cannot be accurately reproduced on family group sheets. These narratives help me evaluate my progress. Perhaps they will help other Case family members, also.

Family research begins with evidence found in family papers and family stories told at holidays and family gatherings. Case researchers are fortunate to have a collection of "family evidence" compiled by Dr. Erastus Ely Case. Case (1847-1918) was a doctor whose 1916 publication, Some Clinical Experiences of Erastus E. Case has become a classic in homeopathic medicine. He was also the son two Cases, grandson of four Cases, great grandson of five Cases, and great-great grandson of six Cases, one of them twice! He created what I term the Case manuscript, a collection of family group sheets he compiled from correspondence with thousands of Case descendants. Unfortunately, the original letters may have been destroyed. The correspondent, however, is identified by Dr. Case and that identity helps the researcher judge the reliability of this evidence. It is obvious from his notes on these pages that this work was to be only a starting point in Case family research. The manuscript is my starting point for each family narrative, also. Much evidence has been found to support Dr. Case's work on some families, but much conflicting evidence has been found as well. As I write each family, I realize how much more work remains.

As stated elsewhere on these pages, this is a work in progress, and hopefully, presentation here may invite discussion and peer review. I would be most interested in hearing from you if:

• You disagree with my findings and conclusions;
• You have new information or insight to share; or
• You can point out grammatical or typographical errors.
• This work is fully documented. Contact the author if you are interested in the citation for any statement of fact.
• Please don't ask me about the original letters used by Dr. Case. I have never seen them and have been unable to find anyone who knows their whereabouts.