My search began with an obit from the Sycamore True Republican dated 27 Mar 1880 which reads, “A twelve year old daughter of Orson Glidden died of diphtheria on Monday afternoon and was buried on yesterday. This is the second child the family has followed to the grave within a fortnight, and still others are sick”. They lived in Afton Township, DeKalb County, IL. The 1880 Federal Census Mortality Schedule lists Eva, age 12; Gertrude, age 7; and Harriett, age 2 all dying from diphtheria. This would have been stressful enough to make the family move elsewhere. This seems to be confirmed by his father’s (James B.) obit published on 16 Dec 1899, which said Orson’s whereabouts were unknown. Eva was born in Kansas, so perhaps they returned there. If Frances married in Pierre, SD do you think that is where Orson is buried?
Any assistance you can give us will be greatly appreciated.