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The Family Heritage Website includes hundreds of our family members and their memories dating back to the early 1800s to present day. View family members from the past and learn more about them by clicking their profile. Our Family History Website includes many different families such as the Deatons, Ausburns, Livingstons, Eurys, and more! https://www.thefamilyheritage.com The Family Heritage Website Including hundreds of family members and their memories dating back to the early 1800s to present day About the Website Welcome to our family history website, a digital treasure trove that chronicles the rich tapestry of our lineage. Within these virtual pages, you'll discover a captivating journey through time, tracing the footsteps of our ancestors and the stories that have shaped us into who we are today. Immerse yourself in the vivid narratives of generations past, illuminated by a collection of meticulously preserved photographs, documents, and firsthand accounts. Explore the origins of our family name, uncover the tales of triumphs and trials that have been passed down through the ages, and gain insights into the cultural, historical, and geographical contexts that have molded our heritage. Whether you're a seasoned genealogist or a curious newcomer, our family history website invites you to bridge the gap between past and present, fostering a deeper connection to our roots and a greater appreciation for the incredible journey that has paved the way for us. Click Here To Search For Ancestors The importance of documenting our history It was important for me to acknowledge and account for both the joys and tragedies of the past, even when some may be inclined to ignore or omit them. These tragedies represent pivotal moments that have shaped not only the narrative of our family but also the broader historical context in which we exist. By acknowledging the darker chapters, we honor the resilience and strength displayed by our ancestors in the face of adversity. Moreover, a holistic representation of our family's history allows for a more authentic and complete understanding of who we are and where we come from. Ignoring these tragedies would be akin to omitting essential pages from a book; the resultant narrative would be incomplete and ultimately misleading. By openly addressing the challenges and hardships endured by our family members, we embrace a more truthful and compassionate perspective that not only fosters empathy but also underscores the importance of learning from the past to create a better future. Our ancestors endured some very difficult times; hopefully this will teach us that when times are hard, we should never give up. The best moments of our lives may still be upon us and future generations are counting on us. About me Me inside Odell Meeler's 1959 Ford Galaxie Fairlane 500 Hello! My name is Tyler Johnson. I was born on January 4th, 2002 in Charlotte, North Carolina. I am the son of Ray Johnson (son of Billy Ray Johnson and January Bass) and Angela Eury (daughter of James Phillip Eury and Martha Ann Deaton). Creating this family history website was born out of a profound desire to honor the legacy of our ancestors and preserve their remarkable stories for generations to come. My grandmother was the author of the Deaton Heritage Book . Her dedicated work in researching our family's history served as a wellspring of inspiration that ignited my own passion for this endeavor. Her tireless commitment to unearthing forgotten tales, meticulously cataloging old photographs, and piecing together the puzzle of our lineage showcased the power of connecting with one's roots. Her research not only enriched our understanding of our family's past but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the significance of heritage. By continuing the work she started, I hope to pay homage to her memory while also forging a path that allows our entire family to delve into our shared history, fostering a stronger sense of unity and a deeper appreciation for the intricate threads that bind us together. Johnson Family in 2003 Me in 2023 at the grave site of John Starlin Deaton Me (Left) and brother Caleb (Right) Me (Right) and my grandmother, Martha Ann Deaton (Left) Contact Contact Questions? Concerns? Something I should add? Feel free to contact me! Submit Thanks for submitting!

Click here to view profile Johnnie Deaton Johnnie at her house in Demorest with father John Henry Deaton Johnnie Deaton was born in Homer, Banks County on November 18th 1933. She was the first descendant of John Starlin Deaton to graduate from college. She married Joe Downer in 1954. They had two daughters. Deborah Diane Downer was born in July of 1958 and Hazel Joann Downer born in September of 1963 in Habersham County, GA. Deborah Dianne Downer had two daughters. Hannah Erin Cunningham was born July 21, 1983 and Leah April Cunningham was born April 29, 1986. Hannah Erin Cunningham married Dustan Wilbanks in November of 2001 in Habersham County, GA. Hazel Joann Downer (Named Hazel because the first time her grandfather, John Deaton, saw her he thought she looked just like her Aunt Hazel did when she was born.) married Johnny Loudermilk in September of 1981 in Habersham County. They have a daughter, Melody Anna, born April 4, 1995, and a son, John Mark, born December 23, 1996 in Habersham County, GA. Johnnie passed away from cancer on September 2, 2003. Father: John Henry Deaton Mother : Cora Jane Lawrence Sister : Ruth Deaton, Hazel Deaton Brother : Stark Deaton ________________ _______ Husband : Joseph Tillman Downer Children : Deborah Dianne Downer, Joann Hazel Downer November 18th 1933 - February 2nd 2003 Johnnie and sister Ruth Deaton L to R: Cora, Johnnie, John Henry, Ruth Johnnie and husband Joseph Downer Johnnie (Far Right) with her family L to R: Cora, Ruth, John Henry, Johnnie L to R: Johnnie holding daughter Joann, beside her is daughter Dianne Downer Johnnie at her house in Demorest L to R: Martha Ann Deaton, Ernest Lee Deaton, Johnnie Deaton, Joseph Tillman Downer

Click here to view profile Edward Eury July 4th 1923 – February 20th 1943 Edward and his father Josephus at the Caswell Developmental Center in Kinston NC Into the Life Edward L. Eury was born on July 4, 1923, in Norwood, Stanly, North Carolina, to Josephus Sanford Eury and Rosa Agnes Hill. His mother, Rosa, passed away in August 1933 when Edward was just 10 years old. Edward was disabled and as a result, his father placed him in the Caswell Developmental Center in Kinston, North Carolina. Edward tragically passed away at the age of 19 on February 20, 1943, due to epilepsy. Death Certificate Father: Josephus Eury Mother : Rosa Agnes Hill Brothers: Leonard , Lester , Hugh , Paul , Willie , Joe Jr , Lawson , Craig Sisters: Mary Velma , Nannie (died at age 2), Lela ________________ _______ Caswell Developmental Center in Kinston NC

Click here to view the Ausburn Family Tree! Originating in Banks County, Georgia. Ausburn Family Tree Click a profile and learn more!

Click here to view profile Bertie Mae Ausburn July 24th 1916 - June 16th 1957 Bertie Mae Ausburn was born on July 24th 1916 in Banks County, Georgia. She grew up in a household with her mother, Mittie Ausburn, and her grandfather, Benjamin Ausburn, who she looked up to as a father. She always said that she was raised by her grandfather and that she loved him dearly. When Benjamin was plowing the fields, he would gladly stop when Bertie Mae would bring him a glass of water. Bertie Mae (Right) and her Aunt Maud (Left) Father: Unknown Mother: Mittie Ausburn Half Siblings: Boyd Jackson , Lucille Jackson ________________ _______ Husband: Harve Deaton Children: Wayne Deaton Child with Jack Peyton: Martha Ann Deaton , Sensitive Content Unknown Father When Bertie's mother, Mittie Ausburn, was 18 years old, she had a child out of wedlock. It is currently unknown who the father of Bertie Mae Ausburn is. This was not talked about by the family and the information may have been lost through time. Bertie Mae's grandson told me that when Harve (Bertie's husband) was in his older age and had suffered many strokes, that he had brought it up and mentioned the name of Bertie's father. Unfortunately the name that was told to him has become a blur, he believes that Harve told him that it was a Charles "Langley" or "Langtree" or "Langford". Hopefully one day this will be revealed through lots of DNA testing. Early Life Bertie Mae was an active member at Damascus Church in Homer, Georgia. when she was five years old, Harve Deaton, had said she would be his wife some day and apparently Bertie Mae had cussed him out for it. Bertie Mae grew up with two aunts and one uncle. Maud, Essie, and Grant Ausburn . 1920 Census showing Bertie Mae Ausburn living with her grandfather, mother, and aunt In 1921, Bertie Mae's mother, Mittie, got married to Claude Homer Jackson. This would be her new step father. Mittie had two more children, Boyd and Lucille. Bertie Mae loved those children with a passion. Bertie Mae in her teenage years with unknown children Bertie Mae standing with step-son, Fred Gibson Top Row (L to R): Bentley Lewallen, Bobbie Jean, Benjamin Ausburn, Bertie Mae Ausburn, Claude Homer Jackson Bottom Row (L to R): Benny Lewallen, Mittie Ausburn, Lucille Jackson, Boyd Jackson L to R: Harve Deaton, Bertie Ausburn, Odell Meeler, Robert Meeler, Charlie Meeler This picture was taken when Ben Ausburn died. The Ausburn family is well represented here. The children on the front row left to right are Ruby and Rudolph Ausburn, Boyd Jackson and Eulean Lewallen. The second row: Bertie Mae Deaton, Belle Ausburn, Vassie Lewallen, Montene Ausburn, Marie Ausburn and Bentley Lewallen. Back row: Hubert Ausburn, Harve Deaton, unknown, Daisy Ausburn, Duck Ausburn, unknown, Grant Ausburn, unknown, Ralph Lewallen and Claude Jackson Bertie Mae Ausburn is on the right. She is with an unknown friend. Working for the Garrisons Bertie Mae Ausburn completed school up to the 7th grade and at age 16, she went to Cornelia and stayed with the family of Brawner Martin and Fletcher Garrison. She kept the house, cooked, and took care of the children. The children were Oland and Jacqueline. Bertie Mae stayed there until she got married at the age of 19. In 2023, I contacted Jackie Garrison at the age of 94. When I asked about Bertie Mae, she said that she remembered that Bertie was a "really country girl" and that "she was really poor". L to R: Brawner Martin, Jackie Garrison, Bertie Mae Deaton L to R: Jackie Garrison, Bertie Mae Deaton Marriage Bertie Mae Ausburn married Harve Wesley Deaton on February 21st, 1935 in Banks County, Georgia by Rev. Freeman Rice. Bertie's mother, Mittie, became very sickly. Bertie and Harve would pick Mittie's children up on Sunday afternoon and keep them at their house until Friday afternoon so they could go to school. Bertie got pregnant and they welcomed their first child, Martha Ann Deaton on July 5th 1941. Bertie's mother, Mittie, died the next day on July 6th 1941. Other people worked the farm to keep it going while Harve was busy building military equipment during WW2. It was a sharecropper's farm. There was always someone staying with them that worked for a room. Everyday there was someone at the door asking Harve and Bertie for food; they were always fed leftovers and given water while sitting on Harve's backdoor step. Bertie got pregnant once more but they had to bury their baby boy, Kenneth Wesley Deaton on March 13th 1943. He arrived too early and wasn't strong enough to make it. Bertie Mae was pregnant once more and Harry Wayne Deaton was born on July 29, 1946 and the war had ended. Headstone of Infant Kenneth Deaton L to R: Harve, Martha Ann, Bertie Mae L to R: Harve, Wayne, Martha, Bertie Bertie Mae holding Wayne Deaton and standing with Martha Ann. Bertie Mae holding daughter Martha Ann and standing with husband Harve L to R: Lucille Jackson, Bobbie Jean Lewallen, Bertie Mae and Harve Deaton holding Martha Ann Bertie Mae holding daughter Martha Ann Postcard send from cousin Ralph Lewallen to Bertie Mae Deaton while he was overseas in Africa during the war. Bertie and Harve's marriage certificate (Picture taken from Banks County Courthouse) Jack Peyton In August of 2023, a seemingly routine decision led to a profound discovery that would reshape the understanding of one family's history. It all began when my mother decided to take a DNA test through Ancestry.com. Little did we know that the results of this test would unravel a hidden chapter in our family's past. As the test results arrived, we were met with a shock that left us bewildered. Contrary to our expectations, the DNA analysis revealed that we did not share any DNA connection with the "Deaton" family, despite our longstanding belief that we were firmly rooted in this ancestral line. Even more bewildering was the fact that we shared 0% DNA with many of my grandmother Martha Ann Deaton's first cousins, individuals who were assumed to be close relatives. We were at a loss for what to make of this unexpected turn of events. However, as we delved deeper into the test results, another name emerged as a prominent clue. We noticed a significant number of first cousin matches with individuals bearing the surname "Peyton." The name struck a chord for my mom and I because we have a photograph from 1941 depicting a man named Jack Peyton holding a baby Martha Ann. Jack Peyton holding Martha Ann Deaton With newfound determination, we embarked on a quest to uncover the truth behind the connection between the Deaton and Peyton families. Our journey led us to uncover a crucial piece of evidence in the form of Jack Peyton's World War II registration card. It revealed that Jack Peyton had been the farmhand for Harve Deaton, Martha Ann's father, back in 1940. The card listed Bertie Mae Deaton, Martha Ann's mother, as someone who would always know Jack Peyton's address. With this newfound information in hand, our quest led us to the last living link in the chain, Jack Peyton's only son, Ronald Peyton. At the age of 77, Ronald was surprised to receive our call, as he had always known about the existence of a half-sister living in North Carolina. However, he had never known her name or her identity. Our call offered him the long-awaited answers he had sought for many years. To confirm the connection, we convinced Ronald Peyton to take a DNA test. The results of the test confirmed our suspicions, as it revealed that he shared 9% DNA (634 centimorgans) with my mother, which is consistent with the genetic relationship of a half-uncle. It became increasingly clear that Jack Peyton was likely the biological father of Martha Ann Deaton. The revelation of this hidden family secret left us with a profound sense of empathy for Martha Ann and Harve Deaton, who possibly lived their entire lives without ever discovering the truth. The circumstances of how Bertie Mae Deaton became pregnant by Jack Peyton remain unknown, buried in the annals of time, and lost to history. Living in Cramerton The family eventually decided to move to Cramerton, North Carolina on March 10th, 1950. Bertie's husband, Harve, had already been working in the Mill there because farming was not productive enough to support a family of four. While working in the mill, Harve was living with Bertie's cousin, Vassie Lewallen and her husband Garnett Smith. Harve was eventually offered a job to be the caretaker for the Cramer farm and a house came with the job; therefore, Bertie and the children made the full time move to Cramerton. Their house address was 583 Mountain Road, Cramerton NC. This was the first house Bertie Mae had with a bathroom, running water, and electricity. Bertie Mae and Harve Deaton at their Cramerton House Bertie Mae with her children, Wayne and Martha Ann Deaton Deaton Family in the yard of Stuart Cramer at the Maymont Mansion The family loved going to Friendship Baptist Church, this is where Bertie Mae's cousin, Vassie and Garnett Smith attended church. Harve and Bertie had became good friends with the preacher, Albert Pressley Millen, and his wife, Nellie. When attending a church dinner at Friendship Baptist Church in Belmont, the family got red measles (also known as rubeola). Everyone had gotten better except for mother Bertie Mae. Her measles turned into spinal meningitis. She laid in the hospital and went into a coma for 42 days. When she awoke, she was never quite right again and suffered physically and mentally. Things did not get better for Bertie Mae as there were instances where she had attempted suicide by trying to drown herself in the lake and her husband Harve jumped in and pulled her out. Harve had her committed to Broughton Mental Hospital on May 3rd 1954 and was she discharged on June 30th 1955. I was able to obtain Bertie's admission card to Broughton Hospital through the Broughton Hospital Library, everything that I was told was confirmed to be tru e about her medical conditions. On Sunday, June 16th 1957 at 9:15 pm, Bertie Mae Deaton, had gotten her husband's .32 pistol and shot herself in the right temple outside of the garage of her house . She was followed by her son Wayne outside and she told him, "Do your mother a favor and go back inside the house". Wayne ran back inside the house and told his sister, Martha. Martha replied "She's not gonna do it" and then the gun shot went off. Shortly before Bertie's death, her daughter, Martha Ann, had apparently been sneaking out of the house at night and was forming relations with the black folk down the road in "Baltimore Village". The town of Cramerton had assumed that Martha was dating black men. The local Ku Klux Klan heard about this and burned a cross in the Deaton's yard. Before Bertie Mae's death, she wrote a letter to her half brother, Boyd Jackson , which read "Make sure Blackie takes care of my flowers". According to Boyd's son, Ronnie, Boyd held onto this letter for a long time but that it was eventually burned in a house fire. Bertie Mae and friend Nellie Millen. Bertie Mae's Broughton Hospital Admission Card. Bertie Mae after contracting Spinal M eningitis The Gastonia Gazette June 18th 1957, Tue · Page 9 According to members of the family, there was a post-mortem photograph of Bertie Mae, but as of this writing, I have never seen the picture and it is unknown if it still exists today. Death Certificate of Bertie Mae Deaton Memory of Bertie Mae Deaton Written by Daughter, Martha Ann Deaton Bertie Mae was an excellent seamstress. She could cut a pattern out of a newspaper and it would look great. She made her daughter's fourth grade school teacher a velvet dress with sequins all over. She was a very good cook and loved all the Ausburn generation. As a child I remember a death in the community and the family was very poor. Mama went over to the house and each neighbor gave what they could to help out. Mama took chickens, eggs, ect. to the country store and traded them. She was so proud she was able to get each child and the father in the family a new set of clothes. She pruchased cloth and went home. She procceeded to make the mother a new dress. By late afternoon she delivered the clothes and had cooked their dinner as well. She always tried to help others. A message written by Bertie Mae in Martha Ann Deaton's 1956 yearbook Bertie Mae (Right) with brother-in-law, Isaac Deaton (Left) Fun Facts about Bertie Mae Ausburn -In 2023, I visited Baltimore Village (African-American Community) in Cramerton with my mother. Baltimore Village is directly across the street to where Bertie and the family lived in Cramerton from 1950-1962. When knocking on the door of the oldest living locals in Baltimore Village, I told them that my great grandparents lived across the street in the 1950s. Immediately, I got the response, "Martha Ann Deaton?". All 3 locals that I spoke to, remembered Bertie Mae and the family like they spoke to them yesterday. One lady told me that she remembered Bertie Mae sitting on the porch of the house and when the children from Baltimore would walk to the store and pass the Deaton household, Bertie Mae would look out for cars to make sure no one got hit. One man told me that he remembered Bertie Mae coming over to help the people in Baltimore sew some clothing and that she was a very friendly woman. -In 2023, I also spoke with a classmate of Martha Ann Deaton, she said she remembered Bertie well and that she had a real country voice and that she was always real friendly to her. She said she does remember Bertie Mae having breakdowns when she came to visit them and she would sometimes see Bertie cry for no reason. She also recollected the goodie bags that Bertie would sent her home with, filled with cake and cookies. Bertie Mae Deaton's Social Security Card Bertie Mae with children and famous Cherokee Indian, Molly Runningwolf Sequoyah -In 2023, Roy Gibson (Brother of Fred Gibson) told me that he remembered walking down Baldwin mountain when Bertie Mae recognized him and picked him up in her and Harve's Ford A model coupe. He said she was driving with Martha Ann and Wayne in the car. -Linda Deaton (Earl Deaton's daughter), told me the story that when Bertie Mae passed away, her glasses were left on the right side of the fireplace in their Cramerton home. When the family decided to put them away, the next day they suddenly reappeared right back on that mantle and the family decided to just leave them be and the glasses stayed their until they moved out. -Bertie Mae especially enjoyed the gospel music of the Chuck Wagon Gang, a well-known group in the 1950s.. Every Picture I have seen of Bertie Mae Ausburn All Census Records

Discover the intriguing story of Harve Wesley Deaton and his family's journey in Banks County, Georgia and Robbinsville, North Carolina. Explore the life of Harve Wesley Deaton today! Harve Wesley Deaton November 14th 1907 - July 3rd 1997 Harve Wesley Deaton was the youngest son of John Starlin Deaton and Etta Icie Davis. He was born on November 14th of 1907 in Robbinsville, North Carolina. He was only three months old when his father was shot and killed near Hanging Dog, North Carolina. Harve's mother, Etta, packed up everything they owned onto a cart pulled by an ox to take her and her children all the way to Towns County, Georgia. Etta's half brothers, David and Robert Lee Deaton went with them too. Father : John Starlin Deaton Mother : Etta Icie Davis Brothers : John Henry Deaton , Jacob Leander Deaton Half Brothers : Reuben Deaton , David Deaton , Isaac Deaton , Robert Lee Deaton , Charlie Meeler , Robert Lee Meeler Half Sisters : Odell Meeler , Elsie Meeler ____________________ Wife : Bertie Mae Deaton Children : Martha Ann Deaton , Harry Wayne Deaton Child with Dicey Lawrence: Fred Gibson L to R: Harve Wesley Deaton, Etta Meeler, John Henry Deaton They were welcomed by John Starlin's sister, Martha Ann Wheeler. Harve loved Martha Ann Wheeler; so much so that he eventually named his first daughter after her. She was very outspoken and Harve loved to ask her questions about the past. Martha Ann Wheeler (Harve's Aunt) John Starlin Deaton (Harve's father) Growing up in Banks County Etta and the children eventually moved to Banks County and Etta remarried to James W. Meeler. He started to become very mean to the Deaton children. John Henry, Jake and Harve frequently huddled up outside the house in the chimney corner to stay warm. Etta would secretly slip them in through the window at night after Meeler had went to sleep. During the day they stayed in the barn and Etta had to slip them bread out of the house in her apron in order to feed them. Things continued to get worse and Etta had to start begging the neighbors to raise the older children. At the age of 9 years old, Harve went to live with Robert "Chub" and Hannah Lawrence, who also took care of the elderly. Harve really liked Hannah Lawrence and helped her take care of the old folks. Harve went to school to the 3rd grade, so he had to teach himself how to read, write, and do math. His teacher was Tom E. Anderson at Grady Academy. He lived with Hannah and Chub until he was 16 years old and then decided to go work in the logging camp of the mountains of North Carolina, where his brothers had worked. Hannah Elizabeth Watson Lawrence Harve's first child, Fred Gibson When he first arrived at the logging camp he was the cook's helper. He had to prepare the meals and clean the mess hall. Later, he graduated to logging with the horses. He sent all the money he could to his mother back home to help her with the Meeler children. Around 1926, Harve must have returned to Banks for a visit. He ended up having a relationship with one of Chub and Hannah Lawrence's daughters, Dicey Jane Lawrence. She was also the sister of his brother's wife, Cora Jane Lawrence (John Henry's wife). Harve and Dicey had a child together named Fred, but Dicey did not tell anyone that the child was Harve's and made people believe that Fred was the son of Owen Gibson, Dicey's soon to be husband. The relationship was later confirmed after Ancestry DNA testing of Fred's son, Eddie Randall Gibson. Harve at 19 years old (1926) This was the same year Fred was born. A group picture of the Logging Camp Harve worked at. (Harve is not pictured here) In 1929, when Harve learned of his step father's passing, he sent his brother, John Henry, a letter from Tapoco NC, stating how he plans to come back home and take care of his mother while sending all the money he can for now. (I have this letter to this day, attached below). He agreed to stay and help raise the Meeler children like they were his own. Harve's 1928 letter from Tapoco NC when he was working for the logging camp- addressed to John Henry Deaton in Baldwin Route 1. He talks about the death of his step father, Jim Meeler. Living during the Prohibition era in the United States, a period marked by the nationwide ban on the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages. It was a time when speakeasies thrived, and individuals sought inventive ways to skirt the law to quench their thirst for alcohol. Harve was no exception, and he ventured into the world of bootlegging as a means of supporting his family and making ends meet. Harve used his knowledge of corn to make moonshine along with his brothers, John Henry Deaton, Robert Lee Deaton, and Charlie Meeler. One day, the law caught up with the gang and the local sheriff, armed with information about bootlegging activities, embarked on a mission to apprehend him and put an end to the moonshining operation. Fueled by adrenaline and the fear of losing his freedom, Harve's actions took an unexpected turn. With a burst of strength, he managed to pull the sheriff's arm out of place trying to get away. Harve and Charlie would go on to serve six months in jail for trying to outrun the law. Robert Lee and John Henry Deaton managed to stay out of jail. A story told by Roy Gibson, son of Dicey and Owen Gibson: In 1929, Harve Deaton, John Henry Deaton, Owen Gibson, and Ralph Waters were all together. There was a dispute and Owen allegedly hit Ralph in the head with a 2x4 which fractured his skull and killed him. Owen went to prison for manslaughter. He tried to pin the murder on the Deaton's, in particular, John Henry. It is unsure if Owen was the real killer but he had no evidence that it wasn't him so he served several years for it and worked on the chain gang. Dicey (Left) and husband Owen Gibson (Right) The Death Certificate of Ralph Waters Harve (left) and his brother, John Henry (Right) 1932 Title Note where Harve and brother John Henry cosigned to pay for a mule. Harve (Right) and his Logging Buddy (Left) I believe the years of 1932-1942 were very hard for Harve. He lost three of his brothers within that ten year span. Reuben Deaton died in 1932, Robert Lee Deaton died in 1941, and his full brother, Jake Deaton, died in 1942. Harve (Left) and John Henry (Right) at brother Jacob Deaton's funeral Harve (standing in the back) with his mother and siblings Harve Deaton at a Smoke House at Isaac Deaton's home. First Marriage Harve married Bertie Mae Ausburn on February 21st, 1935 in Banks County, Georgia by Rev. Freeman Rice. He always said he picked her out for his wife when she was five years old and she cussed him out for it. Bertie's mother, Mittie, was very sickly. She had two other children and she wasn't really able to care for them. Harve and Bertie would pick Mittie's children up on Sunday afternoon and keep them at their house until Friday afternoon so they could go to school. Bertie got pregnant and they welcomed their first child, Martha Ann Deaton on July 5th 1941. Bertie's mother, Mittie, died the next day on July 6th 1941. Before she passed, she pulled Harve aside and asked him to take care of the children. Harve promised that he would take care of them as long as they would stay with him. With WW2 approaching, Harve was 35 years old so he didn't have to go to war but he did go to work for R.J. Letourneau building military equipment. It took him several hours to get to work and he worked long hours to defend the country's freedom. Other people worked the farm to keep it going while Harve was busy building military equipment. It was a sharecropper's farm. There was always someone staying with them that worked for a room. Everyday there was someone at the door asking Harve and Bertie for food; they were always fed leftovers and given water while sitting on Harve's backdoor step. Bertie got pregnant once more but they had to bury their baby boy, Kenneth Wesley Deaton on March 13th 1943. He arrived too early and wasn't strong enough to make it. Harry Wayne Deaton was born on July 29, 1946 and the war had ended. First Home in Georiga Harve and Bertie Mae Deaton lived in two homes in Georgia together, both in Baldwin and only a few miles apart. The first home was right on the creek where Daniel Deaton, Harve's nephew, showed me where he, Boyd Jackson, Lucille Jackson, and Earl Deaton used to come play and try to "drown ducks". I pictured these areas in 2024. This was the location where Martha Ann Deaton was born. Coordinates to the creek: 34.42748° N, 83.45566° W Coordinates to possible house location: 34.42635° N, 83.45549° W Second Home in Georiga The second home was on Taylor Road a half mile from Damascus Church Cemetery. The images below were taken in 2010 by my grandmother, Martha Ann Deaton. I am unsure when the picture to left was taken, likely around the early 2000s. Coordinates to the home: 34.43498° N, 83.44093° W In 2023, I revisited the home place and retook some more images. Fireplace still standing in 2023. Jack Peyton In August of 2023, a seemingly routine decision led to a profound discovery that would reshape the understanding of one family's history. It all began when my mother decided to take a DNA test through Ancestry.com. Little did we know that the results of this test would unravel a hidden chapter in our family's past. As the test results arrived, we were met with a shock that left us bewildered. Contrary to our expectations, the DNA analysis revealed that we did not share any DNA connection with the "Deaton" family, despite our longstanding belief that we were firmly rooted in this ancestral line. Even more bewildering was the fact that we shared 0% DNA with many of my grandmother Martha Ann Deaton's first cousins, individuals who were assumed to be close relatives. We were at a loss for what to make of this unexpected turn of events. However, as we delved deeper into the test results, another name emerged as a prominent clue. We noticed a significant number of first cousin matches with individuals bearing the surname "Peyton." The name struck a chord for my mom and I because we have a photograph from 1941 depicting a man named Jack Peyton holding a baby Martha Ann. Jack Peyton holding Martha Ann Deaton With newfound determination, we embarked on a quest to uncover the truth behind the connection between the Deaton and Peyton families. Our journey led us to uncover a crucial piece of evidence in the form of Jack Peyton's World War II registration card. It revealed that Jack Peyton had been the farmhand for Harve Deaton, Martha Ann's father, back in 1940. The card listed Bertie Mae Deaton, Martha Ann's mother, as someone who would always know Jack Peyton's address. With this newfound information in hand, our quest led us to the last living link in the chain, Jack Peyton's only son, Ronald Peyton. At the age of 77, Ronald was surprised to receive our call, as he had always known about the existence of a half-sister living in North Carolina. However, he had never known her name or her identity. Our call offered him the long-awaited answers he had sought for many years. To confirm the connection, we convinced Ronald Peyton to take a DNA test. The results of the test confirmed our suspicions, as it revealed that he shared 9% DNA (634 centimorgans) with my mother, which is consistent with the genetic relationship of a half-uncle. It became increasingly clear that Jack Peyton was likely the biological father of Martha Ann Deaton. The revelation of this hidden family secret left us with a profound sense of empathy for Martha Ann and Harve Deaton, who possibly lived their entire lives without ever discovering the truth. The circumstances of how Bertie Mae Deaton became pregnant by Jack Peyton remain unknown, buried in the annals of time, and lost to history. Meeting Molly Runningwolf Harve's brother Reuben died in 1932 after getting hit in the head. It was speculated that the son of Molly Runningwolf was the one who did it; however, Molly Runningwolf took the blame and served 21 months in prison for it. In 1947, Harve came to get answers to find out who really killed his half brother. Molly Runningwolf thought he had come to kill her. In reality, he just wanted the truth. Molly begged him to believe her, stating that it was not her or her son, but that it was a member of the Swayney family who did it. The meeting ended cordially. Harve brought along his wife Bertie Mae, children: Fred, Martha Ann, Wayne; and his wife's half brother Boyd Jackson. In the interview below, there is a audio recording mentioning her time in prison. Click here to listen to Molly Runningwolf interview The family eventually decided to move to Cramerton, North Carolina on March 10th, 1950. Harve, had already been working in the Mill there because farming was not productive enough to support a family of four. While working in the mill, he was living with his friend, Garnett Smith. Working in the mill was simply not for him, he enjoyed being outside and not cooped up inside a mill all day long. He was eventually offered a job to be the caretaker for the Cramer farm and a house came with the job; therefore, Bertie and the children made the full time move to Cramerton. Their house address was 583 Mountain Road, Cramerton NC. This was the first house Harve had with a bathroom, running water, and electricity. Harve was working directly for Rebecca Cramer, Stewart Cramer's third wife. Stewart Cramer was the founder of Cramerton and lived in the famous Maymont Mansion on the top of Cramer mountain. Harve took care of Rebecca's land, surrounding the mansion. He often reported the farm's morning news while she was sitting on the toilet. Working for the Cramers The Maymont House in August 2023. The home of Rebecca Cramer, where Harve Deaton oversaw the land. Harve with his children at their home L to R: Martha Ann, Harve, Wayne, Bertie Mae at the Cramer Mansion A postcard from Rebecca Cramer addresed to Mr. and Mrs. Harve Deaton of Cramer Farms L to R: Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton at the Cramer chicken house L to R: Wayne, Harve, Martha Ann at the Cramer Mansion L to R: Wayne Deaton, Boyd Jackson, Harve Deaton, Big John working in the Cramer hay fields L to R: Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton at the Cramer Mansion L to R: Harve Deaton and Fred Gibson fishing in Cramerton L to R: Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton in Cramerton Tragedies Sensitive Content When attending a church dinner at Friendship Baptist Church in Belmont, the family got red measles (also known as rubeola). Everyone had gotten better except for Bertie Mae. Her measles had turned into spinal meningitis. She laid in the hospital and went into a coma for 42 days. When she awoke, she was never quite right again and suffered physically and mentally. Albert Pressley Millen, the preacher at Friendship Baptist Church, was very helpful during these times. He and his wife, Nellie, came to visit on numerous occasions to help anyway they could. Things simply did not get better for Bertie Mae. She had attempted suicide by attempting to drown herself in the lake but Harve was close enough to pull her out. Harve had to have her committed to Broughton Mental Hospital on May 3rd 1954. She was discharged on June 30th 1955. Two years later, on Sunday, June 16th 1957, she had gotten a .32 pistol and shot herself in the right temple. This is something Harve never got over for the rest of his life. He took Bertie's death very hard and never remarried again after that. Bertie and Harve on their porch Preacher Millen and Wife Nellie Killing of John Robert Kendrick Tragedy continued to loom. On February 13th, 1960, a man by the name of John Robert Kendrick was attempting to break into the screen door of the Cramerton home of Harve, Wayne, and Martha Ann Deaton. At about 1:30 am, Martha Ann altered her father that she heard a noise outside. Harve quickly got his .32 pistol and shot John Robert Kendrick in the head. Kendrick fell on the steps, the police were called and he was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Charlotte, where he was pronounced dead. Kendrick lived on 553 Baltimore Street, Cramerton. He had previously been sentenced to state prison on October 1953 for two counts of burglary, he was then transferred to Cherry Hospital in Goldsboro, North Carolina in April 1956 until being released. Harve was acquitted for the killing as it was an act of self defense. John Robert Kendrick's Death Certificate Later in Life In 1962, Harve moved to Midland to work at Jonas Pharr's farm for a short time until shortly later moving to Concord, North Carolina to work on Carl Propst's farm. After suffering a stroke in the 1970s, Harve moved in with his daughter, Martha Ann, in Harrisburg. He also lived with his nephew, Earl Deaton for some time. In the 1980s, he lived with his son, Wayne. Harve was evenutally moved to a nursing home and lived to 89 years old. He passed away on July 3rd 1997. Extra Stories about Harve Harve had always been known to be the jokester. His nephew, Lee Looney, told me the story that when he was young he had a date with this girl and on the way back home he had to travel through a graveyard. Harve felt something touch his back and he was sacred to death, he thought a ghost had came to visit him and was following him on the way back home. When Harve finally reached the house, he looked and found that it was an acorn that had fallen on top of him. Harve's nephew, Eddie Daniel Deaton, said "Harve and Bertie Mae were something else". They would go on squirrel hunting trips together and Bertie would always come back with more squirrels killed. It would seem that Bertie Mae was the better shot. Libby Gunter, a 1963 graduate of Cramerton High School, told me the story of how when she was little, she used to sneak up to the Cramer mansion with friends and Harve would find her and catch her every time . She said that he was always super nice and never got them in trouble with the police, even though they deserved it; instead, he brought them by the house and Bertie Mae brought them some punch to drink. Roy Gibson, the son of Dicey Jane Lawrence and Owen Gibson, told me the story that when he was a kid, on Christmas, Harve gave him a toy shotgun. Harve put peanuts in it and shot Roy in the eye with it. He never forgot that. He told me that story 70+ years later. Harve's WW2 Draft Registration Card In 1940, he was 6'2 193 pounds Every picture I have seen of Harve Wesley Deaton All Census Records

Click here to view profile Alexander Livingston August 25th 1854 – July 23rd 1929 Early Life Alexander and his wife, Mary Frances Alexander Livingston was born on August 25th, 1854 to William and Hannah Livingston. He grew up and spent most of his life in Montgomery County, North Carolina and was the youngest of 8 siblings. On January 5th, 1890, he married Mary Frances Singleton. They had seven children together: Fannie Mae Livingston (born 1893), William Harrison Livingston (born 1895), Carson Livingston (born 1898), Betty Livingston (born 1903), Lemuel Sears Livingston (1907), Lillie Jane Livingston (born 1910), and James Thomas Livingston (born 1913). Alexander was a farmer and lived at Capelsie in Troy with his family up until 1927, when they moved to Norwood, North Carolina. Alexander was Scottish, as his grandfather was born in Scotland. Father: William Livingston Mother: Hannah Robinson ________________ _______ Wife: Mary Frances Singleton Children : Fannie Mae Livingston , William Harrison Livingston, Carson Livingston, Betty Livingston, Lemuel Sears Livingston, Lillie Jane Livingston, James Thomas Livingston About Alexander In an interview I found in 2025, Fannie Mae Livingston (Alexander's daughter) talked about Alexander. She said that he only drank black coffee and often quoted "When I make coffee, I make coffee. I don't want to be fooled. I don't want 9 grains to the gallon." Alexander said that's the way people make their coffee; 9 grains of coffee to the gallon. The interview is attached below. Alexander and his family were very poor. The entire family of 7-12 people all lived in a four-room house that was never painted, had no attic, and was warmed by a wood stove. Their laundry was done in the yard using a big tub, and their home was lit by oil lamps. The children shared a 12x14 room with three beds and minimal furniture. The family often traveled by horse and buggy and they did take a train from Troy to Norwood, NC. The family owned at least 121 acres in Montgomery County. When they decided to move to Norwood, Alexander sold 10 acres to his son, William, for 100 dollars. When Alexander died in 1929, the family split the money and sold the rest to W. J. Morton for 342 dollars. Fannie Livingston talks about her father, Alexander Livingston (1970s) L to R: Annie, Lillie Mae, Fannie Mae (holding baby Erion), George Richardson, James Thomas, Betty (holding baby Frances), Nancy Jane Morton (Neighbor), Mary Frances Singleton, Abbie Gale Singleton, Alexander Livingston Montgomery County Land Deed (Sold land to son, William Livingston) Death The Livingston Mongtgomery County house in 2025. Coordinates: 35.31288° N, 79.85472° W On July 23rd, 1929, Alexander was walking down the streets of Norwood when he had a heart attack while carrying an axe on his back. Alexander passed away at the age of 74. He is buried at Norwood Cemetery with his wife, Mary Frances. Alexander's headstone at Norwood Cemetery Death Certificate

Click here to view profile Charlie Meeler August 21st 1912 – March 13th 1972 Charlie Meeler was born August 21, 1912 in Banks County, GA. He was the oldest child of Etta Davis Meeler and James W. Meeler. He farmed for a living. When Charlie was young, he would attend church with his father, James Meeler. His mother and siblings would attend Damascus Church. He was known to participate in bootlegging with his Deaton half-brothers in the 1930s. Father: James Meeler Mother: Etta Davis _ ______________________ Brother: Robert Meeler Sisters: Odell Meeler , Elsie Meeler Half Brother: John Henry Deaton , Jake Deaton , Harve Deaton ________________ ______ H e married Lonie Lillie Kelley on April 21 1946. They were married by B.S. Peyton in Homer, Georgia. Lonie's parents were Mary Blackburn and Thomas Kelley. They had two children, James Thomas Meeler and Elsie Louise Meeler, who were so precious to them. Charlie died March 13, 1972 and Lonie died April 7, 1974. They are buried at Lamar Church Cemetery, Banks County, GA. Lonie Lillie Kelley a nd Etta Meeler L to R: Odell Meeler, James Thomas Meeler, Etta Meeler, Charlie Meeler, Lonie Meeler Top (L to R): Harve, John Henry Middle (L to R): Etta, Elsie, Odell Bottom (L to R): Robert, Charlie L to R: Etta, Robert, Elsie, Charlie, Odell Charlie Meeler's WW2 Draft Registration Card. In 1940, Charlie was listed as 5'11 and 146 pounds. L to R: Harve Deaton, Bertie Mae Ausburn, Odell Meeler, Robert Meeler, Charlie Meeler L to R: Lonie and Charlie Meeler

Click here to view profile Boyd Jackson August 11th 1929 – September 4th 2010 Benjamin Boyd Jackson was born in Banks County Georgia on August 11th 1929 to Mittie Lou Ausburn. It was believed by most that Claude Jackson, husband of Mittie Ausburn, was the father of Boyd Jackson; however, after DNA testing, through the son of Lucille Jackson, it has been determined that Claude Jackson may not have been the biological father of Boyd, rather it was a man by the name of "Luther Huttie Watson". This was apparently known to a select few, including Boyd Jackson's son, Ronnie Jackson, who told me that Luther "Luke" Watson, was his biological grandfather and that his father, Boyd Jackson, always knew this. It is unknown why or how the relationship between Luther and Mittie came to pass, but it is speculated that Claude Jackson may have been unable to have children. Boyd was originally named after his maternal grandfather, Benjamin Ausburn, whom he was quite fond of growing up. He said his grandfather, Benjamin, was the strongest man he ever seen. He would cut down trees with only an axe, never a saw. He could plow a mule all day long, stopping only for a glass of water. Boyd had one younger sister, Lucille who was born in 1932. He also had a much older half-sister, Bertie Mae Ausburn. Boyd's mother, Mittie, became very sickly. With Claude working the farm, she wasn't able to care of Boyd and Lucille by herself. Bertie Mae, would pick up Boyd and Lucille on Sunday afternoon and keep them at their house until Friday afternoon so they could go to school. So Boyd was essentially raised by Bertie Mae and her husband, Harve Deaton. Mittie Jackson died on July 6th, 1941. Before she passed, she pulled Harve Deaton aside and asked him to take care of her children. Harve promised that he would take care of them as long as they would stay with him. Father: Luther "Luke" Huttie Watson Mother : Mittie Lou Ausburn Sister : Lucille Jackson Half Sisters : Bertie Mae Ausburn ____________________ Boyd Jackson school picture L to R: Harve Deaton, Martha Ann Deaton, Boyd Jackson, Lucille Jackson, Bobbie Jean Lewallen L to R: Martha Ann Deaton, Boyd Jackson, Boyd's brother-in-law, Fred Gibson in Cherokee, North Carolina Top Row (L to R): Bently Lewallen holding Bobbie Jean Lewallen, Benjamin Ausburn, Bertie Mae Ausburn, Claude Homer Jackson Bottom Row (L to R): Benny Euline Lewallen, Mittie Lou Jackson, Lucille Jackson, Boyd Jackson Boyd married Ruth Williams in March of 1950. Ruth was born March 23, 1928 and died in March of 1980. Her parents were Edsel and Vinna Free Williams. Boyd and Ruth had one son, Ronald Boyd Jackson who was born May 20, 1951 in Gaston County, NC. He has two children, Richard Clay and Jeffrey Lee Jackson. Boyd then married Rosa Lee Bray on August 12, 1960 in Banks County, GA. Rosa Lee was born on July 22, 1943. Her parents were David Lewis Bray, Sr. and Cora Lee Dodd Bray. Rosa Lee and Boyd had two children, Barbara Ann and Robert Dale Jackson. -Barbara Ann Jackson was born October 31, 1971 in GA. She married Johnny White. She has two children, Dylan Delane Jackson and Kelsey Ann Qwinn. She later married Mike Adams. -Robert Dale Jackson was born September 6, 1964 in GA. He married Donna Bramblett in 1982. They have two boys, David Dale and Dustin Robert Jackson. Boyd Jackson and son L to R: Boyd Jackson holding Ronald, Wayne Deaton L to R: Ruth, Boyd, Ronald Boyd's children: Dale and Barbara Ann L to R: Wayne Deaton, Boyd Jackson, Ronald Jackson Boyd and son Ronald Jackson Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton on Cramer mountain at Stuart Cramer's Maymont Mansion L to R: Boyd holding Wayne Deaton, Ruth Jackson, Martha Ann Deaton L to R: Martha Ann Deaton, Boyd holding Ronald, Wayne Deaton L to R: Boyd Jackson and Harve Deaton working at the Cramerton chicken house

Click here to view profile Lucille Mary Jackson May 1st 1932 - June 7th, 2017 L to R: Harve Deaton, Martha Ann Deaton, Boyd Jackson, Lucille Jackson, Bobbie Jean Lewallen L to R: Lucille Jackson, Martha Ann Deaton L to R: Martha Ann Deaton, Lucille Jackson Lucille and Fred Gibson Growing Up in Banks Lucille Mary Jackson was born in Banks County, Georgia to Mittie Jackson. It was believed by most that Claude Jackson, husband of Mittie Ausburn, was the father of Lucille; however, after DNA testing, through the son of Lucille, it has been determined that Claude Jackson may not have been the biological father of Lucille, rather it was a man by the name of "Luther Huttie Watson". This was apparently known to a select few, including Boyd Jackson's son, Ronnie Jackson, who told me that Luther "Luke" Watson, was his biological grandfather and that his father, Boyd Jackson, always knew this. It is unknown why or how the relationship between Luther and Mittie came to pass, but it is speculated that Claude Jackson may have been unable to have children. She had one older brother, Boyd Jackson, and an older half-sister, Bertie Mae Ausburn. Lucille's mother, Mittie, became very sickly. With Claude working the farm, she wasn't able to take care of Boyd and Lucille by herself. Lucille's sister, Bertie Mae, would pick up Boyd and Lucille on Sunday afternoon and keep them at their house until Friday afternoon so they could go to school. So Lucille was essentially raised by Bertie Mae and her husband, Harve Deaton. Lucille became very close with her niece, Martha Ann Deaton, who was born on July 5th, 1941 to Harve and Bertie Mae Deaton. Lucille's mother died the next day on July 6th, 1941. Before she passed, she pulled Harve Deaton aside and asked him to take care of her children. Harve promised that he would take care of them as long as they would stay with him. Father : Luther "Luke" Huttie Watson Mother : Mittie Lou Ausburn Brother : Boyd Jackson Half Sister : Bertie Mae Ausburn ________________ _______ Husband : Fred Gibson Children : Roger Carroll Gibson, Eddie Randall Gibson L to R: Lucille Jackson, Bobbie Jean Lewallen, Bertie Mae Ausburn, Harve Deaton, Martha Ann Deaton Lucille in the 1940s Lucille's infants funeral Lucille's childhood home in Banks County, Georgia Top Row (L to R): Maud, Claude, Lucille Jackson Bottom Row: Harve holding Martha Ann Lucille with her two children Lucille married Fred Gibson on Dec. 4, 1948. They had three children, Roger Carroll Gibson, Eddie Randall Gibson, and Patsy Jean Gibson. Roger Carroll Gibson was born January 5, 1950 in Jackson County, GA. Eddie Randall Gibson was born February 17, 1952 in Jackson County, GA. Patsy Jean Gibson was born October 5, 1953, in Habersham County, GA, and died January 9, 1954 in Banks County, GA. She is buried at Damascus Church Cemetery, Banks County, GA. Lucille holding her child L to R: Lucille, Martha Ann holding Daryll Duncan, Roger Gibson Lucille holding her child L to R: Lucille, Fred, Roger, Randy Lucille and children Martha Ann Deaton and Lucille Gibson

Click here to view profile James M. Eury March 30th 1850 – December 30th 1921 Into the Life James M. Eury was born on March 30th, 1850 to Abraham Eury and Nancy Hitchcock in Stanly County, North Carolina. In 1867, he married Sarah Honeycutt. They had 6 children: Amanda Elizabeth Eury (born 1868), William Henderson Eury (born 1873), Eva Helen Eury (born 1882), Josephus Sanford Eury (born 1884), Mary Jane Eury (born 1889), Lela Pearl Eury (born 1890). James' wife died in 1909 due to unknown reasons (Death certificates in NC weren't required until 1913). Through 1910-1920, he lived with two of his daughters. In 1909, James had his foot amputated likely due to complications with diabetes. He died on Friday Decemeber 30th, 1921 due to complications with his foot. Father: Abraham Eury Mother : Nancy Hitchcock ________________ _______ Wife: Sarah Honeycutt Children : Amanda Elizabeth Eury, William Henderson Eury, Eva Helen Eury, Josephus Sanford Eury , Mary Jane Eury, Lela Pearl Eury Stanly News and Press Thu, Sep 09, 1909 ·Page 2 Stanly News and Press Fri, Jan 07, 1921 ·Page 6 James and Sarah's headstone at Cottonville Baptist Church Death Certificate James brother, Adam Edna Eury

Click here to view profile Robert Lee Meeler September 13th 1923 – June 19th 2018 Robert Lee Meeler was born September 13, 1923 in Banks County, GA. He was the third child of Etta Davis Meeler and James Meeler. His father passed away when he was five years old so his early years were spent working on the farm. He was drafted into the army in 1943 and remained there until 1975. He married Ina Wiley in 1947. They had two children, Carol and David. He married Teresa Sternes in 1971. Robert Meeler passed away on June 19th, 2018 and is buried at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery in Augusta, Georgia. Father : James Meeler Mother : Etta Davis ______________________ Brother: Charlie Meeler Sisters : Odell Meeler , Elsie Meeler Half Brother : John Henry Deaton , Jake Deaton , Harve Deaton ______________________ First Wife : Catherine Ina Wiley Children : Carole Elaine Meeler, David Meeler Top Row (L to R): Charlie Meeler, Robert Meeler Bottom Row (L to R): Etta Meeler, Elsie Meeler, Odell Meeler Top (L to R): Harve, John Henry Middle (L to R): Etta, Elsie, Odell Bottom (L to R): Robert, Charlie L to R: Harve Deaton, Bertie Mae Ausburn , Odell Meeler, Robert Meeler, Charlie Meeler L to R: Verner Looney, Edwin Looney, Lee Looney, Reggie Wade, Robert Meeler, Carole Meeler, Odell Meeler, E.C. Gerrell, Ina Wiley L to R: Odell and Robert Meeler Robert Meeler and Carrie Deaton Robert Meeler and wife Ina L to R: Earl Deaton, Ernest Lee Deaton, Robert Meeler, Daniel Deaton, Jacob Leander Deaton L to R: Harve Deaton, Dauphine Deaton, Robert Meeler L to R: Elsie, Odell, Etta, Robert L to R: Robert and Etta Meele