Hello,

I am looking for any information on Joseph Proctor Bowker and his family. I am particular interested in finding out where they lived in Metropolis and if the house they lived in is still there.

Based on census street information from the 1880 census and 1910 census, it appears the lived on or near Girard Street and 7th Street. Anyone know of any old houses around there?

Joseph Proctor Bowker was one of the first people to settle in Metropolis Illinois. He was born in North Sudbury Massachusetts to Joseph Bowker and Patty Proctor, but spent most of his childhood in North Brookfield Massachusetts. His Grandfather was Captain Daniel Bowker of North Sudbury Massachusetts who served in the Revolutionary War 1775-1783.

Joseph Proctor Bowker arrived in Metropolis Illinois some time in the 1840s. He married Catherine Wilson in 1847 in Metropolis. They then had the following children in Metropolis Illinois:

1. Mary Catherine Bowker b. 1848
2. Joseph Bowker b. 1849
3. Thomas Bowker b. 1852
4. Martha Bowker b. 1854
5. Charles Bowker b. 1856
6. Sarah Bowker b. 1859
7. Lewis Warren Bowker b. 1861
8. Margaret Bowker b. 1864
9. Ellen Ann Bowker b. 1869

Joseph Proctor Bowker held several jobs in Metroplis. He was school teacher, farmer, cotton ginner, and also delivered mail. He was a ruling member of the presbyterian church in Metropolis. He passed away in Metropolis in 1891. His wife, Catherine Wilson Bowker, continued to live in the family home, and she was still living there as of the 1910 census.

I am interested in any records involving any member of this family especially if their house could be located, if it is still there. I'm also interested in any old pictures from the time period especially if they involve anyone in the family.

I would like to know of any valuable resources or records that Massac County would have that would be useful in the search for more information on this family.

Thank You