Assisting person seeking death record or obituary for Joel Butts (b. about 1806 NY) last shown in 1850 census. Joel's widowed wife, Mary Churchill Butts, is shown with 8 of their 12 children in 1860 census taken at Greenwood, McHenry, IL.

The couple were married in Geauga, OH on 11/2/1828.

Your assistance would be most appreciated.

L Smith

There are no death records (or births) before 1877. There are no exceptions to this rule. A check of the Woodstock papers didn't show any obits for Joel Butts. You can pretty well determine he died between 1857 and 1860 as there is a 2 year old in the household. That is assuming the child is his.

Nothing was found in a search of the area cemeteries. And, oddly, there was nothing found in probate for him. While he may not have had probate opened for his, he did have minor children and typically there should have been a legal guardian for them. Did the family move from McHenry County? Perhaps guardianship was granted in another county.

Joel's wife, Mary, survived him and was still living in that area in 1860.

Joel Butts was reported to have been killed during the diggiing of a well in McHnry Co., but the year is unknown.

It appears Joel is one of those many people who simply slipped through the cracks of history . . .

Thanks for your input and assistance.

L Smith

Hi:

Just saw your posting. I am descended from Joel Butts, but do not have a death date for him either. Would be interested in hearing from you as I have been working on Joel Butts & family for over 20 years.

Laurie

Hi Laurie:

I COMPLETELY understand the frustration you must be feeling after 20 years of research with big blank spots screaming at you from your family history. I too have experienced such angst over a few of my own ancestors missing data.

In this case I was trying to help someone with their search, but as you can see I never got very far. I have an extensive list of Butts ancestors so keep an eye on the boards.

I suppose it's possible the gentleman might have passed away elsewhere while visiting - it happens . . . There are so many little facts that are difficult to find in some instances unless you live in the area and can scan old newspaper files that might lead to another "clue".

What EXACTLY do you know, and have you some idea or suspect some other possibility no yet put to paper?

Leslie (AZ)