Hi Freda,

To answer part of your query, we've got 25+ years worth of research by direct descendants of Mark Franklin and have found NO documentation extant proving any relationship at all between Mark (Martin) Franklin and Josiah L Franklin.

At this point, the two men MAY be related in some way, but the exact relationship, IF ANY, is not known. If anyone has proof to the contrary, we’d be pleased as punch to see it.

To quote a respected person I know, "If you don't have documentation, it’s just another pretty story."

That pinches all of us, but it's true. I can honestly say that I have a number of hunches on many of the surnames I research, but until and if I find proof, they'll remain just hunches and not something I can hang my hat on.

Take care! Hope you find what you seek on Mazie Vivien Franklin, your dad's first wife.