Shirk - Family History & Genealogy Message Board

SHIRK John & Ann - Cleveland, Ohio

Contribution — 2013-04-10 13:40:51Z

Source: Cleveland Public Library Necrology file - Online search engine - Many Shirk names listed.

Id#: 0327729
Name: Shirk, Jackie
Date: Feb 26 1930
Source: Source unknown; Cleveland Necrology File, Reel #074.
Notes: Shirk-Jackie, beloved son of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Shirk, brother of Caroline and Fred, died suddenly Monday, Feb. 24, 1930.
Funeral services Thursday, Feb. 27, at F. Ziehm Co. Funeral Home, E. 114th and Superior Avenue, at 1:30 p.m., and from Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Garfield and E. 103d Street, at 2 p.m.

Name: Shirk, John
Date: May 5 1945
Source: Source unknown; Cleveland Necrology File, Reel #074.
Notes: Shirk: John, beloved husband of Anna (nee Lamp), father of Caroline Conlon and Fred Shirk, grandfather of Jackie Conlon, Betty Anne and Fred Shirk, Jr.
Friends may call at the Albert E. Ziehm Funeral Home, 7618 Superior, where services will be held Saturday, May 5, at 2:45 p.m.

Name: Shirk, Anna
Date: Feb 27 1949
Source: Source unknown; Cleveland Necrology File, Reel #074.
Notes: Shirk, Anna (nee Lamp), 6703 Wade Park Ave.(Cleveland, Ohio); beloved wife of the late John; mother of Caroline and Fred; grandmother of Betty Ann, Jackie and Freddie; died Friday, Feb. 25.
Friends may call at the F. Ziehm Co. East Cleveland Funeral Home, 13633 Euclid Ave.
Services Monday, Feb. 28, at 1 p.m.
Name: Conlon, Leo G.
Date: Sep 19 1941
Source: Cleveland Press; Cleveland Necrology File, Reel #016.
Notes: Conlon, Leo G.--Beloved husband of Caroline (nee Shirk), father of Jack, son of William and Elizabeth Conlon (nee McKay), brother of Mrs. Irene Hale, Mrs. Rita Shirk, Laurence, Betty and Billy.
Residence, 6703 Wade Park ave. (died) Suddenly.
Friends may call at Kilbane's Funeral Home, 8908 Detroit ave.
Funeral services St. Patrick's Church. Bridge ave., Saturday, Sept. 20, 1941, at 11 a.m.

Name: Conlon, William J.
Date: Jun 7 1943
Source: Source unknown; Cleveland Necrology File, Reel #016.
Notes: Conlon, William J.--Beloved husband of Elizabeth (nee McKay), dear father of Mrs. Irene Hale, Mrs. Rita Shirk Lawrence, Betty, Billy, and the late Leo brother of Mrs. Sarah Page and James Conlon.
Friends may call at Kilbane's Funeral Home, 8908 Detroit ave. Funeral at St. Colman's Church. Wednesday, June 9, 1943, at 9 a.m.

Name: McLaren, Elizabeth M.
Date: Nov 24 1951
Source: Cleveland Press; Cleveland Necrology File, Reel #132.
Notes: McLaren, Elizabeth M. (nee McKay), beloved wife of Robert, mother of Mrs. Irene Hale, Mrs. Rita Shirk, Lawrence, Betty Billy and the late Leo Conlon, sister of Mrs. Belle Ensign, Mrs. Jane Kendry and James McKay, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Friends may call at Berry's Funeral Home, 7200 Detroit Ave. Funeral services from St. Colman's Church Monday, Nov. 26, at 9 a.m.

Cuyahoga

Mary Ann (Shirk) Keefer - b. Union County, Ohio

Contribution — 2013-04-10 13:04:54Z

MARION: Mary Ann (Shirk) Keefer, age 85, of Marion, passed away Monday, April 8, 2013 at Marion Pointe.

She was born October 20, 1927 in Union County to the late John J. and Jessie E. (Laughorn) Shirk, Sr.
Mary was valedictorian of her class at Broadway High School.

She graduated from Marion Business College where she was a member and secretary of the Alpha Iota Sorority.
She married Louis W. Keefer on November 11, 1950 in Marion, OH.
Mary was a home-typist for the Fulfillment Corporation and worked for Commonwealth Insurance and Osgood as well as others.
She was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and later Prospect Street United Methodist Church for over 50 years. Mary was active in PTA and enjoyed reading to students at Olney Avenue Elementary School as well as serving as a Girl Scout leader.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Rebecca (Roger) Porter and Barbara K. Hersman; grandchildren, Christine Justice, Matthew Porter, and Benjamin (Amy) Porter all of Texas, and Sarah (Richard) McDonald of Marion, OH; great-grandchildren, Calah Justice, Luke and Jackson Porter all of Texas, and Emma, Richie, William, Norah, Leah, and Samuel McDonald of Marion; and also one brother, Larry L. (Phyllis) Shirk.

Besides her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Keefer (06/29/99), her sisters, Betty Rider, Bernice Williams, Wilma Emmons, and her brothers, John, Jr. and Robert Shirk.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday
, April 10, 2013 at the Boyd-Born Funeral Home from 5-8 PM. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2013 at 12 noon also at the funeral home with Pastor Nancy Goulet presiding.
Interment will immediately follow at the Marion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Prospect Street United Methodist Church or the Marion County, Ohio Humane Society.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.boydbornfuneralhome.com.

Published in the Marion Star on April 10, 2013

Re: John Shirk - Lebanon County, PA 1826

shirkmom — 2013-04-02 15:35:48Z

I'm replying to my own post to keep this message active. Since I first created this post, I have discovered that John Jacob Shirk's parents were John Jacob & Nancy Catharine (Sanders) Shirk, from Lebanon County, Pennsylvania but other than their names, I know nothing about them. My husband also took part in the Shirk DNA project and they linked him to George Schorck, a 1751 immigrant on the ship Shirley. George had a son named John George Schorck who married Salome Bunsch. An online search shows that they had the following children: 1. John Phillip Henry Shirk (born 1772), 2. Catharine Shirk (born 1774) (married John Adam Scholl), 3. Benjamin Shirk (born 1776), 4. Eva Christine Shirk (1778), and 5. John George Shirk (born 1787). For the life of me, I cannot figure out how my husband ties into any of that family line!!!! For one thing, every child in this family was baptized in the Lutheran church in Schaefferstown, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. Our John Jacob Shirk, born 1826, was baptized in the Heidelberg Reformed Church in Schaefferstown, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania! This doesn't make sense to me unless George & Salome had a son who married a woman who was Reformed and they switched church affliation. Any ideas out there?

Re: Attention: Kelly Vlastnik

pschertzer49 — 2013-03-26 19:31:28Z

for the westlake name check in perry twp union county they owned alot of land. check out beers union county history alot of westlakes

Rachel Hawk Shirk

pkirkbri — 2013-03-26 19:31:23Z

I don't have much info, but here's what I do have. Rachel Hawk was born in Richfield Juniata Co, PA around 1836 to Jacob and Susanna Hawk. She had 2 sisters, Barbara (Lucas) and Susannah (Levy/Fisher). Rachel is mentioned in Barbara's obituary in 2/16/1905 as living in Topeka Kansas as Rachel Shirk.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Re: John Shirk - Lebanon County, PA 1826

alice_myr — 2013-02-23 16:24:34Z

My ancestors were raised in Pennsylvania (as in Pennsylvania-Dutch). Shirk was my Great-Greatgrandparents' name, I believe. They bore a Son-John Coburn, later lived in Marshaltown, Iowa. The Coburns had a Daughter, Lucy, who married Grover Rowlette, all lived in Iowa, near Marshalltown. Grover and Lucy had Genevieve, Grover, Harold (Hap), Esther and Gracie, Jim (oae child passed away after birth). I'll go through these antique photo albums; see if any of them are identified; most of those pictures are not, sadly - lessons learned!. Thank you for your help;

Re: SHIRK, Joseph (1819/1820)

Clpenney_79 — 2012-08-16 04:58:39Z

Oh. I have questions for you. I am Bessie Napier's Great Niece, Melvin Napier's Grandaughter, Cathy. John and Mary Morgan Napier were my Great-Grandparents. Mary died in 1913 or 1914 in Wapello, Iowa John Napier died about 1966. My Grandfather Melvin told me that she died in childbirth, the baby was stillborn. After she passed, John Napier took the children to live with relatives in Iowa and took Mary back to Ohio to be buried in Butler County. I haven't found any evidence as to where she is buried. Soon, John Napier met a woman named Sally Parker, married her, settled in Butler County, OH and had 3 more kids. My Grandfather Melvin and the younger Napier kids were sent to the childrens home because John Napier didn't return immediately to get them. Ruby was the only one that got adopted. Please email what info you need, maybe I can fill in some blanks for you...I really need a picture of Mary Morgan. I just feel that there should be someone out there that has one.

Re: Jennifer Dawn Shirk

fluffybee705 — 2012-04-14 15:39:23Z

Any relation to John Shirk living in Lake Villa?

Frances Shirk c. 1839 married Andrew Heagy 10 Sep 1850

mbrunette — 2012-04-09 18:06:21Z

Frances Shirk married Adrew Heaby 10 Sep 1850 in Carroll
County, IL. I am looking for her parents.

Re: Ulrich Shirk II -- can a dead man father children?

labmom062 — 2012-03-25 06:54:03Z

I have seen that as well. Ulrich name goes back in my family to mid 1500's. I am puzzled by the dob's and dod's could be the dod's of the children. I am in Ulrich family as well. My name is Kathy I would like any info possible as genealogy is fun an interesting.

Thanks hope for reply. my email tuxy005@yahoo.com

Thanks for your time.
Kathy

Re: Descendants of Henry Shirk of Hardy, Va

1_spshirk — 2012-03-18 05:17:16Z

Hi: I am trying to figure out who the oldest Henry Shirk's ancestors are.. I have been looking around on the internet and wondering if they came from Switzerland.

I am Stephen Shirk b 1958
My Father was Ralph Shirk b 1911
Ralph's Father was Owen Shirk b Union County Ohio mid/late 1800's
Owen's father was Henry Shirk b early/mid 1800's Union County, Ohio
I believe Henry's father was Adam Shirk
I believe Adam's father was the oldest Henry Shirk of Hardy Va. now Hardy West Va.

Owen had 3 children, Henry b 1908, Ralph b 1911 and Garnett b 1914?

I am new to all this. Any help info advice you can offer will be appreciated. please email spshirk@aol.com

Re: Shirks from Pennsylvania

vogtdottie — 2012-01-25 18:28:26Z

My great, great, great grandfather, John Showalter, had a brother, Jonathan.

The following is information copied directly from documents Ithat were passed down in my family to me.

Jonathan Showalter b. Dec 20, 1809 lived near Belleville, Mifflin County, PA or Paintersville, md Mary Shirk a sister of John, Michael, Sam and Jacob Shirk. She was b. June 22, 1815 and lived about 12 miles from Lewistown.

He had a sister, "Catherine Showalter, 'Betsy' probably Elizabeth, married Michael Shirk, she is buried Aaronsburg Centre Co. Pa."

He had a sister "Lydia Showalter, b Sept. 25, d Apr, 1899, buried at Dunkard Church Hartley Twp. Married John Shirk. Lived in Hartly Twp. on Laura Glover's farm East of Laurelton Pa."

John Showalter's ancestery is in my family tree (Brindel).

Dixie Vogt

Re: SHIRK, Joseph (1819/1820)

Teck49 — 2012-01-01 19:59:17Z

Hey,

I have a friend that just started work in the Geneaology Dept of the Mormon Church in Salt Lake City. Mary Jane Morgan was also my Great Grandmother. So keep your fingers crossed.
BTW, I guess that makes you my.... 2nd cousin?

Re: What was David Shirk's father's name? ANSWERS

whit1031 — 2011-09-24 16:10:23Z

Thanks very much for the message, and I have to admit you really got me thinking. The first I came across Malinda's maiden name Shirk in a biography of Douglas Whitlock (not me) who was involved in political affairs and lived in Washington DC. He was involved in foreign affairs with Haiti. His bio listed his paternal grandparents as Thomas and Malinda (Shirk) Whitlock. The book of biographies was in a local college library and I failed to make a copy. From there I located Thomas Whitlock and Malinda Shirk's marriage in Parke County, IN in 1833.

From there it gets a little foggy but I think I determined that David was the only Shirk in Parke County of an age that could have been Malinda's father. Most of the Shirk's remained in Franklin County. I have a letter dated 1995 from Loretta Cohen a researcher that worked for me for a time in area. She seemed elderly at the time so I doubt she is still researching. Her letter mentions a Parke County Will Book entry for David which lists Malinda Whitlock as one of his children. Right off I could not find that information but I'll keep looking. I must admit that it has been some time since I pondered David Shirk's connection to Malinda Whitlock, so it might take until next weekend to go through my papers. It might be easier to email me at whit103@aol.com. Are you related to the Shirks?

Best Wishes
Douglas Whitlock
San Juan Capistrano, CA

Re: What was David Shirk's father's name? ANSWERS

susansaunders77 — 2011-09-24 15:14:28Z

I hope you can help me... What proof do you have that Malinda was his daughter?

Re: SHIRK, Verne

btkretch — 2011-09-08 16:27:21Z

I'm sorry, but my David Lawson Shirk does not have a son or grandson named Lorenzo Buckinham Shirk. From what I could find out about the William Shirk in our family (a younger brother of David Lawson) in my records, William doesn't either. Maybe a different Shirk? None of the Shirks in my records have a fancy name like Lorenzo. They're all named David,Mary,Sarah,Joseph....names like that.

I'll let you know if I stumble across anything else in my research. Sorry I wasn't much help.

Re: SHIRK, Verne

1_alshirk — 2011-09-06 20:03:37Z

thank you very much for looking

Al Shirk

Re: SHIRK, Verne

btkretch1 — 2011-09-06 18:52:05Z

I have never seen that name before, but I can do a bit more looking around in my papers. I do not have anything on that branch on line yet, I don't think, and I'm writing this from a library computer. Will have to get back to you.

Tammie Kretchman

Re: SHIRK, Verne

1_alshirk — 2011-09-04 23:40:49Z

I'm trying find out if David Lawson Shirk or William Shirk have a son or grandson named Lorenzo Buckinham Shirk. any help anybody could give me I would be very thankful.

thanks

Re: Shirks

LindaWise61161 — 2011-08-02 01:19:13Z

Judy, Almina Shirk is driving me crazy. NOthing except that one census that she was staying with the Perkins at age 9. Have you received any responses with any clues at all, in all these years? Thanks for any info Judy, Best of regards from a fellow Enos T Elliot ggranddaughter. (or maybe its gggranddaughter, lol)

Re: Sherks etc.

cavalleyboy1 — 2011-07-30 20:24:20Z

FOLLOW-UP Assuming you are John Sherk, I don't see you as one of our members. After checking the website, contact me if you want further information.

Cary Adams,
cavalleyboy@earthlink.net

Re: Sherks etc.

cavalleyboy1 — 2011-07-30 20:13:50Z

John:

You're correct about Peter and Verena as parents of Ulrich. However, I show Peter's birth as February 4, 1621. That being said, you can get this and much more through the Schurch Family Association of North America website. Justin Houser has much information and is more than pleased to reply. Our association is quite active and if you are not aware of it, I suggest you visit and join. I do the Newsletter.

Another Issac Shirk

davshaf — 2011-07-30 03:51:04Z

Looking for parents and descendants of Isaac W. Shirk 1824-1885 of West Earl Twp. Lancaster County PA m.Mary Kilhafer.I have strong reason to believe that their daughter Mary or Maria is my Mary Shirk. My Mary Shirk 1854-1935 married Elam Groff 1849-1905 Both are buried at Groffdale brick church.Mary's headstone has the middle initial "K".Using a mothers maiden name as a middle name for a child was common in those times. Also there is a Frank Kilhafer who lived with the Issac W. Shirk family who is also buried at Groffdale.This seems like a match,but i need something more.LMHS is not too far away from me,going to go soon.

Re: Sherks etc.

traveler6925 — 2011-07-29 19:07:38Z

I know this is a little late in the game, but did you ever get the names of the parents of Ulrich Schurch? I believe that you are looking for Peter and Verena (Eggiman) Shurch from Sumiswald, Bern, Switzerland..Peter was b 6 Oct 1639 and d 1 Jan 1709. I'm pretty sure this is who you are looking for. John

Shirks in central ohio

Jess862004 — 2011-07-23 00:28:39Z

Looking for any information on my grandfathers family. Richard Leroy Shirk b. 1933 d. 1997. his father was Lawrence Shirk and mother was Dorothy Kitzmiller.

Re: Shirks from Pennsylvania

traveler6925 — 2011-07-20 16:51:25Z

Thanks for the quick response. My father's name was Joseph b. 21 Sep 1917. So far the best I can come with is strictly word of mouth cause someone had pidgeon holed the family bible and many piles of mail all with family info. My great-grandfather was named David Bergey Shirk, b. 1848 d. 2 Jan 1920, aside from 10 kids I am a little shakey on him but he was in and around that area (Fayette, Lewistown and Altoona). I am aware of the name Schurch with an umlaut over the u and they a wealth of information. I am not aware of the names of your ancestor the Sulouff's. I am still thinking about taking a trip down to Lewistown. I am always here ---traveler6925@aol.com.

Re: Shirks from Pennsylvania

zulifuz — 2011-07-20 05:35:22Z

What was your father's name?

I have limited information on Shirks living in Mifflin Co. PA 1850 to 1952. They are connected by marriage to my Sulouff line. Reportedly, the Shirk surname was also spelled Schurch. I do not have the name Clarence Alvin Shirk b. 1890. Nearest birthdate in my records is for Andrew Shirk b. 1850, possibly your great-grandfather. He is shown in 1900 census as living in Armagh Twp, Mifflin Co., married 28 years, twelve children all still living. In that year seven of his children are named as still living at home, so presumably five of Andrew's children married and left home by 1900. I will be glad to give you all info I have and names of two other Shirk researchers who contacted me in 2003 & 2004. If interested please reply to this message board, furnishing the name of your father and a way to contact you.

As a suggestion, have you looked at the archived messages for Rootsweb's MailList for the surname Shirk?

Shirks from Pennsylvania

traveler6925 — 2011-07-20 04:31:07Z

I am looking for information on my family that came out of Lewistown, PA....My father and grandfather were both born there or very near. My grandfather was Clarence Alvin Shirk born on 5 Dec 1890 and my father was born on 21 Sep 1917. Unfortunately both men are gone now and are well missed. But I remember them both talking about this cousin, this Aunt and Uncle. But you all know how a kid is when talking family.... zzzzzzzzzz. Now I am paying the price. My side of the family was born and grew up in NJ, with stopovers in Ankara, Turkey and Stuttgart, Germany. Obviously my dad was in the Army and we three brothers were all born at Ft Monmouth, NJ, as a matter of fact in the same delivery room.... Any does anyone have information on the Pennsylvania side of the family? Would appreciate any an all assistance.

Re: Shirk family members

tghealy — 2011-04-24 20:36:12Z

1. Adam Shirk, born 22 Oct 1791 in Hardy County, Va.; died 29 Jul 1876 in Taylor Township, Union County, Ohio. He was the son of 2. Henry Shirk and 3. Mary Catherine Catie. He married (1) Anna Dox 26 Jan 1817. She was born 05 Aug 1796 in Hardy County, West Virginia, and died Apr 1859 in Taylor Township, Union County, Ohio. He married (2) Charity Mann 08 Jun 1860. She died 25 Sep 1873.

Notes for Adam Shirk:
Obituary: Adam Shirk died at his residence in Taylor township, July 29th, 1876 aged about 84 years. Father Shirk was born in Hardy County, Virginia and removed to this tAte and county about the year 1824, and moved to the place where he died about two years afterward. He has lived on the same farm about 50 years and was among the first settlers of the county. He raised a large family of children, 16 in all, ten of them are yet alive and mostly settled in at the same neighborhood. His wife and companion died about 17 years ago. A few years afteward he married a very good Christian woman who also died a few years ago.
Father Shirk was converted and united with the Christian Church about 24 years ago. He also served his country a short time in the War of 1812. Our father was a faithful as a friend, husband, parent, Christian. He loved the church and gave liberally to sustain it. But he ahs gone to his reward, having left ten children, a large number of grandchildren, and great grandchildren who expect to meet him in heaven. The funeral sermon was preached on Sunday at 2 o'clock P.m. at the Union Chapel, on Mill Creek, by Elder Josiah Knight to a very large concourse of neighbors and friends, J. N. Darling.

Generation No. 2

2. Henry Shirk, born Bef. 1754; died Abt. 1819 in Burkett's Hole Petersburg, HARDY, WEST VIRGINIA (VIRGINIA. He married 3. Mary Catherine Catie.
3. Mary Catherine Catie, born 21 Sep 1754; died 10 Jan 1843.

Notes for Henry Shirk:
From Hampshire & Hardy Counties, (W) Va. Abstracts Hampshire County Wills (1780-1794) Deeds (1757-1786) Hardy County Wills (1786-1942) Deeds (1786-1800) compiled by Larry G. Shuck. Hardy County Will Book 3 p. 111. #11 Henry Shirk: Will, 1 Feb. 1819 prob. 10 Aug. 1819. Wife Mary Catre Shirk. Children: John Shirk, Jacob Shirk, Henry Shirk, Caty Shirk decd. Adam Shirk, Jonathan Shirk, Susannah Shirk, Elizabeth Shirk, Mary Shirk, Cathy's (dec'd) children: Patsey, Jobe, Absolom. Exec. wife, sons, Jonathan and John wit; John E. Bills, Mary Bills, Theophilies Law Lyes. Final exec. Thomas Bryan, Mathew Gilmore.

Children of Henry Shirk and Mary Catie are:
i. Jonathan Shirk
ii. Henry Shirk Jr., married Rebecca Van Meter; born 1797 in Pendleton Co., W. Va..
iii. Job Shirk
iv. Absalem Shirk
v. Susannah Shirk
vi. Elizabeth Shirk
vii. Shirk
viii. Mary Shirk
ix. Patsy Shirk
x. John Peter Shirk, born 03 Feb 1787 in HARDY, (WEST)VIRGINIA; died 28 Jul 1873 in Union County, Ohio; married Sarah Brake 02 Aug 1805 in ", HARDY, (WEST) VIRGINIA; born 02 Jan 1790 in UNKNOWN, VIRGINIA; died 25 Sep 1869 in LIBERTY TOWNSHIP, UNION, OHIO.

Notes for John Peter Shirk:
John Peter Shirk emigrated to Ohio in 1820 to Ross and later moved to Union County, Ohio in 1822.

History of Union County, Liberty Township
John Shirk, a native of Virginia, born Feb. 3, 1878 married Sarah Brake, August 2, 1805; she was born in Virginia Jan. 2, 1790. In 1820 he emigrated to OHio and settled in Ross County, and two years later removed to Union County and settled on the farm since known as the Jesse Judy farm. In 1832 he purchased land where the Disciples Church now stands. This tract of land he purchased of Judge McLean and here resided till his death about 1878. Mr. Shirk was a very large, robus man and physically had but few equals. While a resident of Virginia, he was the acknowledge champion both in physical strength and activity, and there "wore the belt." But he also was possessed of an unswerving character. In morals, in kidness, and justice to all with whom he had dealings, he was excelled by few. His conclusions upon right and wrong were drawn with great nicety of decision and adhered to with great firmness in all but the minutest details throughout business life. At one time in his life there was as carcity in corn generally throughout this section of country,m but Mr. Shirk had an abundance and to spare. He had always said that the true value of corn was 25 cents per bushel, that it was worth that to raise it and no more and consequently would never sell his corn for any more or any less than that price. He found many poor people through the neighborhood who had to buy corn and supplied them with what hteyneeded at the above state price while at other places not many miles distant corn was selling at 50 cents per bushel. One of his neighbors who knew the market value of corn and learned that Mr. Shirk had a quantity to sell and also the price at which h was selling it, concluded he would enter into a speculation; he harnessesed up a four horse team and drove over to Mr. Shirk's residence and told him he understood he had corn to sell. Mr. Shirk replied that he had and the man with the team told him he would take all he oculds ell. Mr. Shirk replied: "You can not have a bushel of it; you do not want it for your own use and do not need it but are trying to speculate off of poor people." So he gave the man some strong mroal advice and sent him home without any corn. Thus was his kidness and generosity ever exhibited to the poor. aT the time he concluded to make a purchase of land one of his neighbors, Mr. Moor, decided to buy; they were booth poor. Judge McLean owned a large tract of land which they cohndlued they would endeavor jointly to purchase. The Judge would not sell to speculators; they desired it for their own use upon which to make homes for themselves, so they concluded to go see Judge McLean in Ross County and set the day tos tart on their journey. Mr Moor had nothing but an old ragged suit of clothes and felt unable financiallyt o buy a new suit so he borrowed a fine suit of his neighbor and on the morning appointed dressed in his fine black suit he made his appearance at Mr. Shirks' read to start on the trip. Mr. Shirk loked the man all over, from head to foot, and then told him to go right home and take off his fine suit and put on his old clothes or he would not go with him . They were going to see the JUdge in their plain old clothes and tell him just thier situation financially andm ake no fine show of dress or any misrepresentation in any form. He did as Mr. Shirk directed, they visited the JUdge, in that palin way, with plaint alk, and were successful and purchased 733 acres of land for $1,000 on easy terms and the same land when correctly surveyed embrasced 912 acres. The success was all due to Mr. Shirk's straightforward course and true representation of themselves and circumstances. And the above examples are but illustrations of the principles and character which made up the warp and woof of this noble pioneer's life. Mr. Shirk was the father of the following children: Elizabeth who married Caleb Orahood; he died and she married Ezekiel Clements; she is now a widow gain and resides in Middletown Champaign County, Ohio; Aaron married Rosanna Tobe; she died in 1870; he now resides at York Center; Nancy married Daniel Johnson; Jemima, married Abraham Grub; he died and she married William Davis; and now resides in Michigan; Henson and Hiram (twins) the former married Nancy Wilson; the latter a lady in Norther Ohio; and subsequently removed to IOwa where he died; Jonas, married Olive Herrington is deceased; Isaac marrid Jane Dillon; Lucy married Matthew Johnson; Alfred married in Michigan was in thewar of the rebellion and severely wounded form the effects of which he died soona fter in Indiana; Silas married Sarah Stout who died and he married Christiana Hamilton; John married Millie Clemens; Sarah married James Miller; and now resides in Mechanicsburg Champaign County, Ohio; and one child that died in infancy.

Re: Shirk family members

tholloway06 — 2011-04-19 14:29:38Z

I am also descended from Adam. Your relation is through Adam's son, John, where mine is from his brother Stephen. I think. I'll have to double check this.

I also am looking to go further in my tree than Henry Shirk and Mary Catrie, but have been unable to find a link anywhere else. I just received an email from someone from the Schurch Family Association of North America. This website is wonderful. It's www.schurch.ca. I will send you a copy of the email that they sent me regarding our lost Shirk relatives. Send me an email at t_holloway_08@yahoo.com.

Tracey Holloway

Re: Shirk Family

MistyAlina — 2011-03-06 22:49:09Z

Hi there...

I have also traced my family to Henry Shirk and Mary could you please send me the list you have compliled...I am hoping in may help me in my research. Thanks so much!

Re: John Peter Shirk family

lisagriffith87 — 2011-02-27 03:09:53Z

I Have some of these people in my family tree but am new and have no idea how to help but some of the shirks i have go back to switzerland

Re: John Peter Shirk family

Marion48423 — 2011-02-15 16:28:58Z

Hi Jayne, yes still here. Do you still have the aol address. Seems like I lost your e-mail address.

marion47@myfamily.com

Re: Shirk family members

AndrewShirk15 — 2011-01-31 18:01:46Z

Oh thats awesome David thank you very much! I've been trying to Find that for over a year now and im glad i've found soneome. Yes this novel of sorts your cousin wrote is great! Says she dedicated this to her mother Martha Ann (Shirk) Hammer. Its 60 pages long.

Re: Shirk family members

davidernst56 — 2011-01-29 08:29:16Z

Hi Andrew. Nannie Betts was my first cousin. My mother says I met her when I was just a baby. My family was traveling to one of the Shirk reunions honoring John Shirk (1787-1867), my 3rd Great Grandfather, and my Fathers Aunt introduced our family to her. It was one of the last reunions she attended. I have a digital image of a Shrik family Crest. You can email me directly at Rocknrol3@aol.com or contact me on ancestry.com at davidernst56, aand i will give you access to the entilre shirk family tree i have accumulated...including the family Crest. Let me know if I can be of any further help. Dave Ernst

Re: Shirk family members

AndrewShirk15 — 2011-01-28 22:43:04Z

Hi my name is Andrew James Shirk. I would like to know if any of you know of our family crest/ coat of arms? I have a timeline written by Nannie Hammer Betts about John Shirk and his ancestors and descendents. Im sure we could help each other out. So please if you have any info/pictures about our coat of arms/family crest I would gladly return the favor.

Re: John Peter Shirk family

randjmorgan — 2011-01-21 00:21:54Z

Marion glad to see you are still looking into the Shirks I have not had a lot of time so keep up the good work and I'll keep checking to see if you post any new info thank you Jayne Bowler Morgan MI

Re: John Peter Shirk family

randjmorgan — 2011-01-21 00:17:49Z

I didn't know Isaac and Edith divorced I thought he died and then she remarried. The Charrick Iam related to was married to Idella Fink and had a daughter named Leotta she married Truman Clark and had 7 children my mother being the oldest Mary Clark Bowler she passed away 4 years ago. She left behind my dad and 8 children. I know of your grandfather I believe he went by Warren and i also think he was living with Edith when she passed away. Jayne Bowler Morgan Michigan

Re: John Peter Shirk family

Marion48423 — 2011-01-18 23:25:29Z

Very interesting. I had found quite a bit of information about Isaac and Edith Dasher Shirk but couldn't find anything about her second and third marriage. Thank you for filling in some blanks. I think you are right about Edith naming Charrick after her cousin. I saw them in the same household in a census.

Re: John Peter Shirk family

buddyshouse — 2011-01-18 16:31:14Z

sorry my great grandfather we thank changed his name from Wittschirk to Schirk, We found a maiden name of his Mother it was Schrpski and they came from Gross Hartz we thank, but he was born in Danzig and his name was Michael and he had two sister one Caroline and Emma and a brother Charles and the lived in Salford Pa

Re: John Peter Shirk family

ESMITH1170 — 2011-01-17 16:31:25Z

My grandfather, George Warren Smith, had a 1/2 brother named Charrick Shirk, who lived in Michigan. His mothers name was Edith Dasher Shirk Smith Orahood. Edith married Isaac Shirk May 19,1880 in Union Co., OH. Edith is the daughter of John snd Louisa Dasher. John was born in Germany and Louisa in Oh. Edith was born about 1858. My dad remembers going to visit Uncle Charrick, in upper Michigan, and fishing for Northern Pike with him. My dad says that his dad called him lazy because all he did was hunt and fish. Sounds good to me. Edith had a cousin name Charrick Shirrer and possibly named her son after him. Edith and Isaac divorced sometime before 1892 and she married my great grandfather Cyrus Smith.

SHIRK Steven G - Vietnam Wall section 43W - our honor and thanks to those who put their lives on the line

t42Vietnam_ParkerCoTX — 2010-10-11 22:23:06Z

SHIRK Steven G - Vietnam Wall section 43W - our honor and thanks to those who put their lives on the line

Honor our Veterans. This is one of many photographs of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Parker Co, TX. Feel free to use this picture for your personal records. This is one of the 217,145 photos free at http://teafor2.com

If you know more about this person please reply here instead of contacting me because this is not my family.

SHIRK, Verne

elizabeee — 2010-10-11 21:58:51Z

After a bit of research, I now believe that Verne Shirk's ancestral line may lead back to ULRICH SCHÜRCH & MARIA GRUNDBACH. If this is the case, I have a contact for you (though, I do not know how current this contact information is):

Thomas A. Sherk
9 Palatine Place
Womelsdorf, Pennsylvania U.S.A. 19567
Email: 104172.3022@compuserve.com

If you contact Thomas, be sure to let him know that Verne may be a descendant of ULRICH SCHÜRCH (CODE N). The "code" part is important.

Good luck!

Re: SHIRK, Joseph (1819/1820)

elizabeee — 2010-10-11 05:19:49Z

I also should note that Verne's ancestors seems to have lived in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania around the same time as my Shirk ancestors. Verne's ancestors also seem to have immigrated from Switzerland, as did mine. So, it's definitely possible that Verne's ancestors and mine were some sort of cousins, or something.

Re: SHIRK, Joseph (1819/1820)

elizabeee — 2010-10-11 05:15:38Z

Greetings.

Unfortunately, I do not have a Verne Oscar Shirk in my database. I see that Verne's parents were Jacob Baer Shirk and Cora Etta Scheib... also names with which I am unfamiliar. While there may be some distant relationship between your Shirk family and mine, I cannot immediately see a connection. Sorry.

Elizabeth Bullard-Watson

Re: SHIRK, Joseph (1819/1820)

elizabeee — 2010-10-11 05:09:27Z

I dislike posting my email address publicly, because of spammers. But I've got a gmail address that I'll post here. If you send correspondence to that address, I'll provide you with my "real" address in turn. For now, you may contact me at elizabw.ca@gmail.com.

I am a 2nd great-granddaughter of Sarah Olive Shirk and, like you, a 3rd great-grandchild of Joseph R. Shirk. So, you and I are 4th cousins.

I do have some information about Margaret Jane Linton's family. And, yes, Joseph R. Shirk was born in Pennsylvania... Washington County, to be more precise. I believe that the family name originally was Schürch... our ancestor Casper Schürch being the one that immigrated to Pennsylvania from Canton Basle, Switzerland. I have not gone so far as to document our familial relationship to Casper yet, but I hope to work on that in the near future.

Elizabeth Bullard-Watson

Re: SHIRK, Joseph (1819/1820)

btkretch — 2010-10-10 23:57:21Z

Completely forgot I had written anything on this board, and never picked anything up in my email. I will be more watchful this time.

As for the info I have, I have the book "The Cattle Drives of David Shirk" which I received as a gift from my children this year. This is David L. Shirk, married to Frances M. Crow; he is my great-great-grandfather. In addition to the stories of cattle drives and range wars, it also contains names, dates, good stuff like that. I also have some photocopied pages from another book in which David L. Shirk lists his children, their spouses and their children.

Elizabeee -- when I found these old posts I tried to email you directly, but as I am a 'free' member, the system wouldn't let me. I'll try to get on at the library and email you from there.

Bye!

Re: from Lebanon County, PA to Stephenson County, IL to Chickasaw County, IA

shirkmom — 2010-09-27 21:32:11Z

Right after I posted this I was fortunate enough to find the marriage license application for John Jacob Shirk's brother Daniel F. Shirk. He listed his parents as being John J. Shirk (and I can almost guarantee that Jacob is his middle name, the same as his son) and his mother as being Nancy C. Shirk (and I bet that the C. stands for Catherine). I may have sold one of my own mysteries here!

from Lebanon County, PA to Stephenson County, IL to Chickasaw County, IA

shirkmom — 2010-09-25 14:15:18Z

First generation:
JOHN JACOB SHIRK
born Feb. 17, 1826 in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania
died April 20, 1907 in Chickasaw County, Iowa
married May 7, 1849 in Stephenson County, Illinois to:
PHOEBE STOCKS
born Dec. 12, 1829 in Bilper, England
died Nov. 29, 1909 in Chickasaw Ccounty, Iowa

NOTE: I believe that John Jacob's Shirk parents were John and Catherine Shirk. I was given copies of the following baptismal records as proof. John & Catherine had a son named John Jacob Shirk born the same day & in the same location as our John Jacob Shirk, so it appears to be a match. I believe that his siblings were: Mary A. Shirk, born 1833 in Pennsylvania, died ?; Jacob Benjamin, born 1838 in Pennsylvania, died 1912 in Illinois; James Oliver, born about 1841 in Pennsylvania, died 1871 in Illinois; and Daniel Frank, born about 1844 in Pennsylvania, died 1914 in Illinois. The 1850 Wisconsin census record shows a family with almost identical family names. Plus, when John applied for a marriage license in Illinois, he was listed as John Shirk Jr., leading me to assume that his father was also named John. However, once I finally sent for the death certificate of John Jacob Shirk, I saw that his parents were listed as Jacob & Nancy Sanders Shirk! Perhaps his father’s middle name was Jacob, as was his, and he was more commonly known as Jacob…. But I’m not sure how Catherine could be confused with Nancy. More documents lead me to believe that John & Catherine are the correct names of his parents.

**************************************
Church Records of the Heidelberg Congregation in Schaefferstown, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania -

Johann Jacob was born Feb. 17, 1826 and baptized Oct. 8, 1826; his parents were listed as Johannes Schark & Catherina. The baptismal sponsors were listed as Johannes Umbrehent & Margretha.

Also, Mary A. Shirk was baptized in 1833 in Schaefferstown, Lebanon County, PA by the same parents:
Johann & Catherine Schark.

************************************************
From the book, History of Stephenson County, 1970, pages 113 & 115:
The Mennonites who came to Stephenson County appear to all have been descendants of the original Swiss-born south Germans, whether they came from Pennsylvania, New York, Canada, or from Germany. As in Europe, there was friendship between the Mennonites and the Brethren churches, which were Anabaptists of a more direct descent from the followers of John Hus, who had begun in Bohemia the earliest of all Anabaptist movements.
A local sidelight on the ties that bind people together is that descendants of the relatives of the reformers, Hus, Zwinglie and Grabel are all living in Stephenson County. It would not be surprising to discover collateral members of the Luther, Menno Simmons and Calvin families also.
LANCASTER EARLY SETTLERS:
Northeast: Lancaster School, on the southwest corner of the junction of Brick School and Dakota roads: Henry K. Elias, Martin & Abraham Brubaker, Philip Reiger, John S. Smith, Samuel & Isaac Lapp (whose farm is still owned and worked by descendants), Abraham Winter, John Shirk, etc....

1850 Federal Census, Sauk County, Wisconsin, Baraboo Village

John Shirk, head of household, 53 years old, born in PA, plasterer
Catherine Shirk, wife, 41 years old, born in PA
John Shirk, son, 25 years old, born in PA, tailor
Mary A. Shirk, daughter, 17 years old, born in PA
Benjamin Shirk, son, 12 years old, born in PA
James Shirk, son, 9 years old, born in PA
Daniel Shirk, 6 years old, born in PA

1850 Federal Census, Stephenson County, Illinois, Buckeye Township

John J. Shirk, head of household, 24 years old, born in PA, tailor
Phoebe Shirk, wife, 20 years old, born in England
Martha, daughter, 4 months old, born in Wisconsin

NOTE: These two reports were done 4 months apart and both list a young man about the same age named John who was a tailor. I believe that they list the same person. The Stephenson County family is clearly our John J. Shirk since he is living right next door to his wife's parents, Thomas & Martha Stocks. But what makes me also believe that the Sauk County family is also his family is: the parent's names match up correctly, the names of his siblings match up correctly, plus according to a biography of Martha Shirk (John J. Shirk's daughter listed in the above census), she was born in Sauk County, Wisconsin.

****************************************************
1860 Federal Census of Illinois, Ogle County, Brookville

John Sherk, head of household, 38 years old, born in Pennsylvania, well driller
Phebe A. Sherk, wife, 30 years old, born in England
Martha Sherk, daughter, 10 years old, born in Wisconsin
Thomas J. Sherk, son, 8 years old, born in Illinois
Mary E. Sherk, daughter, 6 years old, born in Illinois
Emma Sherk, daughter, 3 years old, born in Iowa
Albert Sherk, son, 1 year old, born in Illinois

*****************************************************

1870 Federal Census, Stephenson County, Freeport, Illinois

John Jacob Shirk, head of houshold, 44 years old, born in PA, (unsure of occupation)
Phoebe Ann Shirk, wife, 40 years old, born in England
Martha Shirk, daughter, 20 years old, born in IL
Thomas J. Shirk, son, 18 years old, born in IL
Mary E. Shirk, daughter, 16 years old, born in IL
Emma B. Shirk, daughter, 13 years old, born in IL
Albert H. Shirk, son, 10 years old, born in IL
Rose E. Shirk, daughter, 8 years old, born in IL
Sadie E. Shirk, daughter, 7 years old, born in IL
Ulysses J. Shirk, son, 5 years old, born in IL
Jessie M. Shirk, daugther, 4 years old, born in IL
William R. Shirk, son, 2 years old, born in IL
Charles Shirk, son, 1 month old, born in IL

Note: Another child, Bertha, was born later in 1872.

***************************************************
The Children of John Jacob Shirk & Phoebe Stocks Shirk:

Martha Jane Shirk, born about 1849 in Sauk County, Wisconsin, married John F. Rodemeyer in 1872, died 1884 in Stephenson County, Illinois

Thomas J. Shirk, born about 1851 in Illinois, married Mary Leach in 1875, died in 1879 in Stephenson County, Illinois

Mary Elizabeth Shirk, born Dec. 25, 1853 in Illinois, married Hiram Melvin Hills in 1875, died before 1920 in Stephenson County?

Emma Shirk, born Aug. 14, 1857 in Iowa, married Robert McLees in 1878, died after 1930 in Stephenson County?

Henry Albert Shirk, born March 23, 1859 in Illinois, married Stella Celeste Hills in 1877, died 1945 in Longview, Washington

Rosa Ellen Shirk, born Jan. 17, 1861 in Illinois, married Henry T. Lawson in 1879, died 1941 in Stephenson County, Illinois

Sada E. Shirk, born March 25, 1862 in Illinois, married John F. Miller in 1833, married Charles McGilligan in 1895, died after 1920 in Stephenson County?

Ulysses Grant Shirk, born about 1864 in Illinois, married Amanda Alice Daniel about 1890, died before 1900 in Jasper County, Missouri

Jessie M. Shirk, born April 13, 1866 in Illinois, married to Frank Shufelt in 1885, died Nov. 30, 1917 in Chickasaw County, Iowa

William R. Shirk, born Feb. 9, 1869 in Illinois, married to Georgiana M. Scales in 1890, died after 1920 in Whatcom County, Washington

Charles Millard Shirk, born Jan. 10, 1870 in Illinois, married to Nettie Belle Adams in 1892, died 1944 in Spokane, Washington

Bertha Mae Shirk, born March 29, 1872 in Iowa, married to William H. Tucker, died 1956 in Stephenson County, Illinois
*****************************
John Jacob Shirk served in the Civil War with the 14th Illinois Cavalry Regiment, Illinois Volunteer, Company K, mustered to active duty with the Union forces in January 1863. He signed up for duty in Brookville in Ogle County, Illinois. He was officially mustered out at Nashville, Tennessee on July 31, 1865 at the completion of the war. Both John and his younger brother Daniel are listed on a Civil War memorial in Oregon, Illinois.

When he enlisted, he was listed as being 37 years old, 5'8" tall and having dark hair, blue eyes and light complexion. His occupation was listed as farrier and said he was born in Pennsylvania.

Chickasaw County, Iowa List of Pensioners on the Roll, Jan. 1, 1883:
John J. Shirk, Bradford, disabled from fall from horse, $5 month pension

from website: http://danel.us/resources/16th+Ga+14th+IL+Cav+conflict.pdf

The 14th Illinois Cavalry has a relatively clear unit history. It was founded in January 1863 in Peoria. Illinois and was immediately sent to ``the front,´´ which at that time was the Kentucky -Tennessee border. They participated in battles at Celine and Kettle Creek.

They moved with Burnside into East Tennessee for the actions around Knoxville and eastward up the Holston River into Virginia. They were involved in the Atlanta Campaign and against Hood´s attack into Tennessee.

They were nearly annihilated twice: Longstreet nearly trapped them at Bean´s Station and they were ambushed while asleep at Jug Tavern, the final battle in the disaster that was Stoneman´s Raid on Macon. Many were captured and the rest were scattered, slipping back to Union lines in small groups.

The 14th was mustered out at Nashville on July 31, 1865.

*********************************

1880 Federal Census, Chickasaw County, Iowa, District 114, Bradford Township

John J. Shirk, head of house, 54 years old, born in Pennsylvania, farrier
E. Phoebe Shirk, wife, 50 years old, born in England, homemaker
Sadie E. Shirk, daughter, 18 years old, born in Illinois
Jesse Shirk, daughter, 15 years old, born in Illinois
Ulysses Shirk, son, 16 years old, born in Illinois
Willie Shirk, son, 13 years old, born in Illinois
Charley Shirk, son, 11 years old, born in Illinois
Bertha Shirk, daugther, 8 years old, born in Illinois

*********************************************

1900 Federal Census, Chickasaw County, Iowa, Bradford Township

John J. Shirk, head of house, 73 years old, born Feb. 1827 in Pennsylvania
Phoebe Shirk, wife, 70 years old, born Dec. 1829 in England

******************************************

FIFTIETH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
NASHUA REPORTER - May 11, 1899
Nashua, Iowa

The home of Mr. and Mrs. J. J. (John Jacob) Shirk was the scene of happiness Sunday, May 7th, it being their (50th) wedding anniversary, which was celebrated many long years ago. And the greatest amount of happiness for them to be given out of twelve hours time was to have the children all gathered around the home table once more. They were a little disappointed at the non-appearance of one daughter and one son, but they are expected, and the home circle, after 19 years of separation, may yet be complete before the honeymoon is over.

The bride and groom were tastefully decorated with apple blossoms by their little granddaughter, but the happy smiles on their faces were better to those loving ones gathered around them than all the flowers. The children present were: Mrs. R. C. (Emma) McLees of Freeport, IL; Mrs. Carls (Sadie) McGilligan of Pecatonica, IL; and Mrs. M. (Mary) Hills, Mrs. Frank (Jessie) Shufelt, Mrs. Will (Bertha) Tucker, and Will and Doc Shirk of Nashua. When all these came and brought along wives, husbands, and children, there was a house full. After dinner, which was one of mother’s dinners, there was music by the family band.

Some evidences of the love the children bore for their parents found expression in the following presents: A gold trimmed water set, $20 in gold, a home-cured ham, some elegant table linen, and a beautiful banquet lamp.

Mr. and Mrs. Shirk were married in Freeport, IL by Esquire Smith, away back in ‘49, and have lived together for 50 years quietly, contented and happy in each other’s society. Their large number of friends outside the family, unite in wishing for them 50 more years of happily wedded life.

*********************************
Chickasaw County Iowa
1906 County Directory
City of Nashua
SHIRK, John J. Res es S Main Street Nashua Veterinary surgeon
SHIRK, Mrs Phoebe Res es S Main Street Nashua

********************************

OBITUARY:
DR JOHN JACOB SHIRK
Newspaper: NASHUA REPORTER - Nashua, Iowa
Date: Thursday, April 25, 1907

Dr John Jacob SHIRK passed away at his home in this city at 11:50 o'clock Saturday morning after an illness of several weeks.

Dr SHIRK had been an invalid for over a year, and although at one time during the past year his life was despaired of, he recovered so as to be able to be out upon the streets again. Nine weeks ago he was again confined to his bed, but he never rallied from his last illness, and on Saturday he answered the summons of his Master.

John J. SHIRK was born in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, Feb. 17, 1826. In 1852 he moved to Freeport, Illinois, coming later to Chickasaw County, Iowa, and settling at Old Chickasaw. After living there six years he returned to Freeport, and in 1879 he came to Nashua, where he made his home until his death. He was married May 7, 1849 to Miss Phoebe STOCKS, who survives him. To this union there were born twelve children, nine who are living, and who are as follows: Mrs. H. M. (Mary) HILLS, of Little Falls, Minnesota; Madames R. C. (Emma) MCLEES and H. T. (Rose) LAWSON, of Freeport, Illinois, Mrs. C. M. (Sadie) MCGILLIGAN, of Ridott, Illinois, Madames W. H. (Bertha) TUCKER and Frank (Jessie) SHUFELT, of Nashua, Iowa, and Albert, Charles, and William SHIRK all of Washington state. He also leaves to mourn his death two brothers, Jacob B. and Daniel F. SHIRK of Freeport.

When the Civil War broke out he enlisted as veterinary surgeon, a profession he followed throughout his life. The deceased was one of Nashua's most highly esteemed citizens. He was a man who had no enemies, and the quiet, unassuming life he led, won for him a legion of friends. He was a member of the GAR Post of this city, being past Commander, and was faithful in the performance of hs duties.

The funeral was held at the M. E. (Methodist Episcopal) Church at 2 p.m., Monday, Rev. A. W. SMITH officiating, and the remains escorted by his comrades of the Grand Army Post, were laid to rest in Greenwood Cemetery, Nashua, Iowa

2ND OBITUARY:
DR JOHN JACOB SHIRK
Newspaper: Uncertain, but perhaps again from the NASHUA REPORTER

Again the funeral bell tolls and another of Nashua's honored and respected citizens passed to his long home.

Dr John J. SHIRK was born in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania on Feb.17, 1826, and died at 11:50 a.m. Saturday, April 10, aged 81 years, 2 months, and 3 days, death resulting from Bright's disease and heart trouble.

In the early fifties, the deceased moved to Freeport, Illinois where he remained a couple of years and then moved to Old Chickasaw. After six years residence here he returned to Freeport for a time but for the past twenty-eight years he and his family have resided in Nashua.

During the war, Dr. SHIRK was enlisted as a veterinary surgeon and continued in the profession after returning home until forced by illness to abandon his profession.

On May 7, 1849 he was united in marriage to Miss Phoebe STOCKS and to this union twelve children were born of whom nine survive, beside the aged companion to cherish the memory of a kind and indulgent parent.

During our acquaintance with Dr SHIRK we had grown to have a deep respect for him. He was always pleasant to meet and his bright, cheery smile showed a heart full of love and warmth.

The funeral services were conducted by Rev. A.W. SMITH from the M. E. Church Monday afternoon and internment was made at Greenwood Cemetery. The members of Geo. W.S. Dodge Post and the Relief corps attended in a body and we do not remember of ever seeing more of the veterans together on a similar occasion - certainly a mark of deep respect. The floral tributes were many and beautiful.

NOTE: I posted the above obituary at a Stephenson County, Illinois website with the following contributor notes:
-John J. SHIRK served with the 14th Cavalry Regiment, Illinois Volunteers, Company K
-John J. SHIRK & his wife Phoebe STOCKS SHIRK were married in Freeport, IL
-John was part of a large group of Mennonites that came to Freeport about 1848 to start a church and settlement. The family officially left the area for good in 1879, after the births of their 12 children.
-At the death of John J. SHIRK, three of his children had already preceded him in death. One daughter, Martha C. ROADMEYER, left behind two sons and one daughter living in Freeport: Henry, George, and Lizzie (ROADMEYER) KUNZ.

NASHUA REPORTER - May 2, 1907

J. B. Shirk and Ward McLees of Freeport, the former a brother and the latter a grandson of the late Dr. J. J. Shirk arrived Sunday to attend the funeral.

NASHUA REPORTER - April 1907

D. F. Shirk and J. B. Shirk of Freeport, Illinois and the latter's son Carroll (should read: Dearell or Darroll) of Rockford, Illinois, arrived here Monday morning called here by the serious illness of the two former's brother, Dr. J. J. Shirk. J. B. Shirk and son returned home Tuesday night, the latter - who is the owner of Boiler Works at Rockford with a large number of men working for him - being obliged to return to work on account of his men taking advantage of his absence and going on a spree.

NOTE: The death Certificate of John J. Shirk from Nashua, Chickasaw County, Iowa reports that his parents were Jacob & Nancy (Sanders) Shirk, both of Pennsylvania. At the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index, John Jacob Shirk is listed as the spouse of Phoebe Stocks; but he is also listed as John Shirk Jr. Early birth records and census reports list his parents as John & Catherine Shirk. Which is correct? At this point, I am assuming that someone gave incorrect information for the death certificate.

************************************************
OBITUARY:
Mrs JOHN J. SHIRK
Newspaper: NASHUA REPORTER - Nashua, Iowa
Date: Thursday, Dec. 2, 1909

Mrs John J. SHIRK passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Frank SHUFELT, Monday, just as the shades of evening were drawing to a close.

Mrs SHIRK had been in failing health for some time past, but her final illness was of short duration, she being confined to her bed only five days. The cause of her death was due to heart trouble.

Phoebe Ann STOCKS was born in Bilper, England, Dec. 12, 1829, and when four years of age she came to America with her parents, settling in Pennsylvania. From there she moved to Illinois and thence to Iowa in 1856. On May 7, 1849 she was married at Freeport, Illinois to John J. SHIRK, who proceeded her to the great beyond April 20, 1907. They lived in Nashua two years when they returned to Freeport. Thirty years ago they returned to Nashua, which place was the home of the deceased until the time of her death. She was the mother of twelve children, nine of whom are living and are as follows: Mrs. Mary HILLS, of Little Falls, Minn.; Mrs. Emma MCLEES, of Freeport; Albert H. SHIRK of Clallam, Washington; Mrs. Rose LAWSON, of Freeport; Mrs. Sadie MCGILLIGAN, of Ridott, Illinois; Mrs. Jessie SHUFELT, of Nashua; Will and Charley SHIRK, of Bellingham, Washington; Mrs. Bertha TUCKER, of Nashua. She is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Ellen STONE, of this city, and four brothers, James STOCKS, of Los Angeles; (Zachary) Taylor STOCKS, of Buffalo, Wyoming; Cyrus STOCKS, of Grinnell, Iowa; Millard STOCKS, of Biggsville Illinois.

Mrs SHIRK spent the later thirty years of her life in this community and was held in high esteem by those who knew her. She was a woman who possessed many lovable traits of character, which made her one of the kindest and best of wives and mothers. Since the death of her husband she had made her home with her daughter, Mrs SHUFELT, who cared for her tenderly.

Three daughters, Madames HILL, MCLEES and LAWSON, arrived Tuesday to attend the funeral. The funeral was held at the Congregational Church Wednesday at 2:30 p.m., Rev. HESS officiating, and the remains were laid to rest in Greenwood Cemetery, Nashua, Iowa.

NOTE: I also posted this obit online with these additional comments:
Phoebe's parents immigrated to Stephenson County with their family coming from Pennsylvania about 1843. Her parents were Thomas & Martha (GRATIEN) STOCKS, originally from England. She also had siblings that must have preceded her in death: Charles, George, Mary, and Rhoda.

**********************************************************
John Jacob Shirk and his wife Phoebe moved from Freeport, Illinois to Nashua, Iowa in 1879 shortly after the death of their oldest son, Thomas. Here is a story of their journey, as told by their youngest daughter, Bertha: (I’ve added notes in parenthesis)

NASHUA REPORTER - April 15, 1954
Nashua, Iowa

Historical Society Presents-
Jerry Eckenrod Interviews Grandmother on Days of Crossing River on Ice
by Jerry Eckenrod, 12 years old, son of Leonard Eckenrod, Ionia
Told by Mrs. Bertha Shirk Tucker, age 83 years, Freeport, IL

My Grandmother Tucker came to Chickasaw County in December in the year 1871 (should read 1879), when she was only 8 years old, with her parents, Dr. and Mrs. John J. Shirk.
They left a farm near Polo, Illinois (should read Freeport?). They had two covered wagons, with one team of mules, and one team of horses. There was her father (John) and mother (Phoebe), her oldest brother (Henry Albert), his wife (Stella) and baby (Arthur), three other brothers (Ulysses, William & Charles), two sisters (Jessie & Mary) and herself, which made ten people (actual # - 11) in the two covered wagons. They had their bedding, dressers (?), and a lot of eatables in the wagons.
They crossed the Mississippi on the ice near Dubuque as there was no bridge there at that time. She can remember how the little mules dug their hooves into the ice to stand up because the wagon was heavy.
They started just before Christmas and arrived on New Year’s Day in Bradford at her Uncle George Stocks.
Her father rented a little old stone house in Bradford, and it stood north of the Little Brown Church, near the bridge that crosses the ravine. The old Greenwood Flour Mill was running then, and her father carried (?) flour from the mill to New Hampton, Willamstown, and Fredericksburg with his team of mules. Later he traded the mule team for a house.
She remembers that there was a hotel, a store, a post office, a blacksmith shop, an old piano factory, and quite a few dwelling houses. The store was owned by E. R. Dickerson, and the post office was run by Hiram Thayer.
She went to Sunday School at the Little Brown Church and attended the Old Bradford School. As she grew older she went to the Old Academy, which is now a dwelling house.
Her father, Dr. John J. Shirk, was a veterinary surgeon in the Calvary in the Civil War. He followed that profession the rest of his life. He had his office in a drug store in Nashua, driving each day from Bradford. Then later they moved to Nashua and lived there until his death at 81 years of age.
I have in my possession letters he wrote to his wife while in the Civil War. Also a letter written at the Siege of Vicksburg. His wife’s maiden name was Phoebe Stocks. They had twelve children, of which Grandmother Tucker is the only survivor, and she is 83 years of age. (Bertha Shirk Tucker was born March 29, 1872 in Freeport, Illinois)

-- remarks in parenthesis added for clarification by Sharon Shirk

NOTE: I have been in contact with the descendants of the young man who wrote the above report in 1954, and they recall the Civil War letters and believe they still exist. However, they have not returned my request to have photocopies of the letters.
*********************************************************

2nd GENERATION:

THOMAS J. SHIRK
born about 1851 in Brookville, Ogle County, Illinois
died August 20, 1879 in Freeport, Stephenson County, Illinois
married Oct. 29, 1875 in Stephenson County, Illinois to:
MARY LEACH
born about 1858 in Stephenson County, Illinois
died unknown

Illinois Statewide Marriage Index 1763-1900:
Shirk, Thomas J. & Leach, Mary - 10-29-1875
*******************************************
Illinois Mortality Schedule:
Thomas Shirk, age 25 years, born in Pennsylvania, died Oct. 1879 in Stephenson County, Illinois, railroad brakeman run over by rail cars

Illinois Statewide Death Index
Thomas Shirk, 28 years old, died 8-20-1979 in Freeport, Stephenson County, Illinois
*********************************************************************************
FREEPORT WEEKLY BULLETIN - Aug. 21, 1879
Thomas Shirk

----Another Accident-----
Thomas Shirk, a Brakeman on the Northwestern, Run Over
-- His Injuries Probably Fatal

Another railroad accident occurred (yesterday?) this time on the Chicago Northwestern road, and like its predecessor on the Western Union, has a fatal termination. The unfortunate man is Thomas Shirk; he was a brakeman on the train known as the Milwaukee freight. It was westward bound, and the accident happened about two miles this side of Pecatonica, at 6:15 this morning. For the reason unknown, Mr. Shirk started to ascend the car next to the way (??) when he slipped and fell. The train was moving at the rate of (??) miles an hour at the time. Before he could be extricated, one wheel had (rolled?) over the lower portion of his (left? right?) leg, and another over the part between the knee and the thigh. The (bones?) of the leg were fractured in many (places?) and the flesh terribly gashed. HIs (?????) was also injured. The (???) at seven o'clock, and the injured man was conveyed to his home on Van Buren Street, a couple blocks (???) of Stephenson. Dr. Caldwell was (summoned?) but was unable to operate (??) at that time, as the patient was in a very weak condition, owing to the (loss?) of blood. Mr. Shirk is about thirty years of age. He is married and has two children. He died at two o'clock p.m. yesterday. The funeral will take place this afternoon.

NOTE: The above article appeared in the Freeport newspaper and concerns the death of John and Phoebe Shirk's oldest son, who is our direct descendant. I was not able to make out all the words from the faded newspaper. Thomas was born about 1852 and died in 1879 when he was about 26 years old. He married Mary Leach on Oct. 29, 1875 in Stephenson County. I believe that only one child survived him, his son William, born in May 1876. I have no idea if his widow ever remarried or what became of her. His parents moved to Iowa the year of his death. I am uncertain exactly what became of his son William because he moved to either to Montana or to Washington near his uncles by 1908, abandoning his wife and children left behind in Freeport. William is our direct descendant.

Re: looking for half brother or sister

RubyKeller57 — 2010-08-12 19:14:41Z

Walter Shirk was my great uncle. His brother, Milton, was my grandfather...my father was Simon Walter Shirk. My father was born in McAlisterville, PA and Milton and his wife Elsie and 2 young children are buried there. Walter did change his name to Siddall but we have no idea why. I think Walter had 7 brothers and one sister. I would love to be able to find some of my father's relatives.