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!
This week I am showcasing my first cousin, Davis Hamilton Willard. This photo says a lot about the place and times that some of my ancestors lived. It definitely was a different way of living. This was taken in Dover, Lafayette County, Missouri in 1919. Davis is about 4 years old, and he is holding his Grandpa’s rifle. During this time frame, Dover was just a tiny town and people would still hunt for their food in the surrounding areas. I love the baggy rolled up pants, the oversized hat, and the fact that the gun is taller than he is.
Davis grew up to join the Army and served his country proudly After he retired from the military he became a Fire Chief in Kansas City, Missouri.
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.
Yeah, people thinking kids with guns are a cute sight to photograph. Eek! I’ve read news reports from the 19th century about kids and accidental shootings to really curl your toes. Glad your cousin turned out well.
Yes he turned out to be a really great guy!