I am currently working on my Family Genealogy Group page for Facebook. In doing so I realized I have a tremendous amount of photos. I decided to feature one a week. No, not everyone is “perfect” however, they are to me!
The sixth photo I am showcasing is of my 2nd cousin 4x removed Marshall Anderson Hayes. The quality of the photo leaves a lot to desired, however, this photo is very precious to the Hayes side of my family. It was taken in November of 1884 in the town of Medicine Lodge, Barber County, Kansas. He and his wife Etta lived a few miles west of the town. This is the only photo that exists of Marshall.
On February 8, 1885, Marshall was coming home from town. He had to cross the Medicine Lodge River and it had been cold and snowing for 2 days. He and his horse began crossing in the lowest point in the river when the horse lost his footing and threw Marshall off his back, into the icy, freezing river. The horse continued back to the homestead, but Marshall’s body wasn’t found for 2 days. He left behind his pregnant wife and 2-year-old son, Sterling.
I am a professional genealogist, writer, photographer, wife, mother, and grandma. I have two books available on Amazon.com: Your Family History: Doing It Right the First Time and Planning Your Genealogy Research Trip. You can also connect with me via Facebook or Twitter.
Sad tale, but so cool to at least have a photo (no matter the quality) to remember him by.
I feel fortunate to have it. Have a great evening!