Private JAMES BROWN MATTHEWS, Co. B. 86th Illinois
James Brown Matthews was born on April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois, the son of James Matthews and Elizabeth "Eliza" Bleroe (Brown) Matthews. The elder James Matthews/Mathews was born c. November 27, 1803 in or near Baltimore, Maryland. His birth was recorded in the Saint Peters Protestant Epicopal Church in Baltimore. He is believed to be the son of John Matthews and Martha Grube. The elder James Matthews spent the first 20 years of his life there in the Baltimore area. About 1823/24, James moved west to Ohio, where he settled near Dayton, Ohio. James Matthews was married to Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe Brown on September 25, 1827 in Bethel, Miami County, Ohio, who was born c. 1806/07 in Ohio.
At the time of the 1830 census, the Matthews are believed to have been still residing in Ohio. About 1832/33, the elder James Matthews continued his progress west, moving to Illinois, where they settled in Tazewell County, Illinois. In May of 2014, Carol found that "James Matthews purchased, on 12 Apr 1834, a tract of land from James & Mary McClure. James and Eliza Matthews sold a tract of land, on 24 Jun 1836, to Samuel Judy."
Twelve children, seven girls and five boys, are believed to have been born to James and Eliza, including;
(PROBABLY) 1. Catharine Matthews, born August 12, 1828. Catherine Matthews was married to Elias Duvall on November 9, 1848 in Tazewell County, Illinois. Catherine died on 17 Jan 1849 in Tazewell County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois. See her Find A Grave Memorial #173536231.
2. Margaret Matthews, born June 21, 1831 in Illinois. Margaret was married to Irvin Lucian Smith on January 1, 1849 in Taewell County, Illinois. One daughter is known to have been born to Margaret and Irvin;
A. Mary Eliza (Smith) Hinman (1852-1874).
Margaret (Matthews) Smith died on August 30, 1894 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mountain View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
3. Sarah E. Matthews, born c. 1833 in Illinois; A Sarah E. Matthews was married to James W. Search on July 17, 1856 in Tazewell County, Illinois; James W. Search served in Troop F of the 3rd Illinois Cavalry during the Civil War; James and Sarah are known to have had at least two children, Rosa Bell Search, born c. 1857/58 in Illinois and Jacob M. Search, who was born c. 1862 and who was married on November 11, 1915 in Yuba, California to Alice B. Keene, who was 44 years of age at the time they married. Her parents were John Ware and Harriet E. Cummings. Jacob M. Search died in 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Red Bluff, Tehama County, California.
At the time of the 1870 census, James W. and Sarah E. (Matthews) Search are found in Lostant, Hope Township, LaSalle County, Illinois, where he is listed as a Physician and Surgeon;
James Search M 36 Pennsylvania
Sarah Search F 36 Illinois
Rosa Bell Search F 12 Illinois
Jacob Search M 8 Illinois
Julia A Carter F 32 New York
Nina M. Carter F 9
As far as James Search and Sarah Ella Matthews, I think the Rosa Bell Search who married John Archibald in Tazewell Co., IL is probably their daughter. There is a discrepancy on the date of marriage, though, as the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index has January 4, 1875 as the date of marriage. The online Illinois Marriages, 1851-1900 database has March 27, 1873 as the year of marriage—both in Tazewell Co. Not sure which is correct, but would tend to lean toward the 1875 as she would have been about 15 in 1873!
As I indicated earlier, the 1886 Peoria City Directory has Sarah E. Search listed as widowed. I think that is probably correct as, in the 1880 federal census, this family listing is in Peoria , Peoria Co., IL.
John Archibald, 25, carpenter, Scotland , Scotland , England
Bell Archibald, 22, IL, PA, IL
Sarah E. Search, 46 (mother-in-law), IL, MD, IL
At the present time, I've not located John and Bell after the 1880 federal census. There are a John Archibald and Clara Archibald buried in the Walnut Hill Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. Could Bell's name been Clara Bell? They died in the 1880's.
I'm suspicious about a Jacob Search who, in 1880, is found in West Omaha, Douglas Co., NE. He is 18 years of age and listed as a "workman." Note is also made that he is "crippled." I've been unable to locate him in 1900 or 1910, but there is a Jacob M. Search who shows up in CA in 1920 and 1930 that well could be the same individual. Married to an Alise B. Keene ( Keene is a married name and not her maiden name). She, has been married previously as a Thomas W. Keene is 17 years of age and residing in the family unit—noted as a step-son. There is also a daughter listed, Fannie A. Search (age 9); however, the 1930 federal census notes she is a "stepdaughter". The family, in 1920, is in Marysville Ward 4, Yuba , CA and in Red Bluff, Tehama , CA in 1930. Jacob M. Search died on May 13, 1938 in Tehama , CA at age 76.
Confusingly, at the time of the 1880 census, a James W. Search is found in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, where he is a practicing Physician. He is married to a Ella Search, who was born c. 1837/38 in New York. Were Sarah and James W. Search divorced rather than widowed" This Jacob does fit what we know about James and Sarah's son;
Self J W Search M 45 Pennsylvania
Wife Ella Search F 42 New York
Son Jacob Search M 18 Illinois
Son Willie Search M 4 Nebraska
At the time of the 1885 census, James Search is found in Ward 4 of the City of Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska;
James Search M 51
Wife Ellen Search F 47
Son Wm Search M 9
James W. Search was born on October __, 1835 and died on January 31, 1907 and his mortal remains were laid in the Soldiers And Sailors Cemetery in Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska.
4. James Brown Matthews, born April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois; See his biography below.
5. Eliza Matthews, born c. December 16, 1837/39/40 near Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; Eliza was married William Crosley (misspelled CROASY) on February 12, 1857 in Tazewell County, Illinois; About 1872/73, they moved with her father to Forest Grove, Oregon; Eliza and William were the parents of eight children. Eliza (Matthews) Crosley died on July 9, 1899 and her mortal remains were laid in the in Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her and her family.
6. John Matthews, born November 17, 1839 in Illinois. John died on January 12, 1849 at the age of 9y, 1m & 26d and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Township in Tazewell County, Illinois.
7. William R. Matthews, born c. 1841/42 in Tazewell County, Illinois. William is very likely the William Raper Mathews, who is found on the Voter Registration on 30 Aug 1875 in 572 Minna 10, San Francisco, California. At the time of his father's death in 1898, William R. Matthews was residing in Martinez, California.
8. Mary Marinda Matthews, born January 23, 1844 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois; Mary was married to Henry Clay Layten on May 6, 1867 in Tazewell County, Illinois; Henry had served in Co. G of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; Mary died on August 5, 1902 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; See Henry Clay Layten's Find A Grave site for more information about Henry and Mary's life and family.
9. Edward Matthews, born c. January __, 1845/46 in Tazewell County, Illinois. At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, Edward Matthews is found residing with his oldest sister, Margaret, and her family and with his widowed father in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon.
However, at the time of his father's death in 1898, Edward is listed as residing in Mackinaw, Illinois in Tazewell County. However, after his father's death, or perhaps at his father's death, it appears Edward came west to Oregon and decided to stay, at least for a while. At the time of the 1900 census, Edward is believed to be the Edward Matthews, who was born in January of 1846 in Illinois and who lives in the City of Forest Grove, North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts, of Washington County, Oregon. He is single at this time and his father and mother are listed as having been born in Maryland and Ohio. Nothing more is known about Edward at this time, it is not known if he stayed on in Oregon or returned to Illinois. It is not known when he died or where his mortal remains were laid.
10. Infant son Matthews, born on 18__. Died on September 11, 1853 and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
11. Julia A. Matthews, born on November 25, 1853 in Illinois. Julia died on May 12, 1868 at the age of 14y, 5m & 17d and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
12. Charles Matthews, born and died c. 1858. His mortal remains may also lie in the Mackinaw Cemetery.
The Mathews family is found residing in Tazewell County, Illinois at the time of the 1850 census;
James Mathews M 47 Maryland Tanner & Courier
Eliza P Mathews F 44 Ohio
Sarah Mathews F 17 Illinois
James Mathews M 14 Illinois
Eliza Mathews F 10 Illinois
William Mathews M 8 Illinois
Mary Mathews F 6 Illinois
Edward Mathews M 4 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, the Matthews family is found in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Mathews M 57 Md
Eliza P Mathews F 54 O
Wm R Mathews M 17 Ill
Mary Mathews F 16 Ill
Edward Mathews M 14 Ill
Julia Mathews F 6 Ill
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Eliza are believed to be found in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Matthews M 66 Maryland
Eliza Matthews F 63 Ohio
Mary Birkett F 16 Ohio
Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe (Brown) Matthews died on March 5, 1872 at the age of 66y, 2m & 5d in or near Mackinaw, Iazewell County, Illinois. Her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
In 1871, the year before Eliza's death, Thomas Lenard Matthews, who was born on October 9, 1814 in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Maryland and who was very likely the elder James Matthews younger brother, died in or near Mackinaw, Illinois. His mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
Later in 1872, after his wife's death, James Matthews again continued his migration west, moving with a number of his children to Oregon, where they settled in the Forest Grove area of Washington County, Oregon.
At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, James Matthews is found residing with his oldest daughter, Margaret, and her family in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon;
I. L. Smith, 53, Cabinet Maker (sick - ?? infl.), OH, Nov. Scot, NY
M. Smith, 49, Keeping House, OH, MD, OH
Etta Smith, 21, Teacher in Red Lake , IL , OH, OH
George Smith, 19, Cabinet Maker, IL, OH, OH
Elmer Smith, 18, IL, OH, OH
Willie Smith, 13, IL, OH, OH
Liley Day Smith, 11, IL, OH, OH
Fred Smith, 9, IL, OH, OH
Carrie Smith, 8, IL, OH, OH
Jas Matthews (father-in-law), 77, Tanner & Courier, MD, --, --
Edward Matthews, 29, Farm Laborer, IL, MD, OH
Some of James Matthews later years were spent residing with his daughter, Mrs Eliza Crosley, as well. The elder James Matthews died on October 24, 1898 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon at the age of 94 years, 10 months and 30 days. His mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Someone also set up a site for "Grandfather Matthews" in the Mountain View Memorial Gardens, Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR. No birth or death dates and note made that there is no record in the "Cemetery Records Book". Also, buried in the Forest View cemetery is Margaret Mathews Smith, w/o Irvin Lucian Smith. Birth date of June 21, 1831 and death date of August 30, 1894.
Now to continue with the biography of James Brown Matthews;
James B. Matthews
On August 9, 1862, James B. Mathews volunteered in Marshall County to serve in a company which was being raised in the Henry, Illinois area of Marshall County, by a man by the name of Elias C. Brearly. At the time he volunteered, James gave his residence as Whitefield Township in Marshall County, Illinois.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name MATHEWS, JAMES B
Rank PVT Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL Age 26 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair DARK
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks N/A
A few days later, when Brearly had about 100 volunteers, he led the Marshall County volunteers into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Brearly and 88 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. B of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Brearly was elected Captain of Co. B.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
During the next two and a half years, Private James B. Matthews served faithfully in Co. B as the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina and North Carolina. During this time, James was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia, Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Jonesboro, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, to name a few and marched with Sherman to the Sea.
On June 6, 1865, Private James B. Mathews was with the surviving members of the 86th Illinois when they were mustered out of service on June 6, 1865 at Washington, D.C. He then, with the surviving members of Co. B, returned to their homes and families in Marshall County, Illinois.
On March 11, 2011, I got the following email from Andy Anderson. His email address is: oxdrover
"I appreciate the work you're doing in finding the graves of these Civil War soldiers. By now you may have already satisfied yourself that James B. Mathews of Co B, 86th IL Vol Inf, was the James B. Matthews (note the spelling) (18 Apr 1836 - 26 Jun 1880) that Findagrave.com shows is buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. [Looking at the pension card you described on Footnote.com, on my monitor I clearly see "Forest Grove, Oreg." as the place of death, but I can't explain the discrepancy of the death date on the card with the death date on the tombstone.] The pension record shows that James B. Mathews (of B/86) left a widow named Mary M. Shelton. Findagrave.com shows Mary Margaret Buckner was married first to James B. Mathews. This marriage took place 7 Oct 1869 in McLean Co IL, according to the online Illinois Statewide Marriage Index. Secondly Mary married John V. Shelton. Mary was born 1845 and died 1929, and also buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove. Her tombstone is found under the name Mary Margaret Shelton. James was married at the time of his entering the Army in 1862. I believe this wife was Susannah M. Matthews. Her marriage to James B. Matthews took place 20 Dec 1860 in Stark Co IL. This county borders Marshall Co IL, where James of Co B/86 enlisted from.
The 1880 census shows James B. Matthews of Washington Co OR was the son of a father born in Maryland ("Md.", not Mississippi, as someone suggested at Findagrave) and mother born in Ohio. The Illinois family matching these criteria in 1850 is the family of James and Eliza Matthews of Tazewell Co IL. James (Sr.) was born in MD and Eliza in Ohio. They had a son James age 14, or born in 1836. Tazewell Co IL is only two counties south of Marshall and Stark Cos, and next door to McLean Co, where James married Mary Buckner in 1869. James and Mary appear in the Tazewell Co 1870 census. James is age 34 and Mary is 24. The census indicates they were married the previous October (which supports their being the same couple as in the marriage record). In their household was a child named John, age 7, presumably by James' first marriage. In 1880 they're in Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. I don't know what became of John; he's not listed with James and Mary in 1880.
Good luck with your project. Have you had any cooperation from the Adjutant General of Illinois? Many years ago they responded to several of my requests for info on my Civil War ancestors' resting places, but they no longer seem to be willing to help as in the past.
Andy Anderson"
As stated above, James B. Matthew was married at the time he entered the service in 1862. James was married to Susannah M. ___________ on December 20, 1860 in Stark County, Illinois. Susan was born c. December __, 1841. One son is believed to have been born to James and Susannah;
1. John Brown Matthews, born c. November __, 1862 in Illinois, possibly in Tazewell County, Illinois. John was never married. John Brown Matthews died on January 4, 1948 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Susan M. (____________) Matthews died on February 23, 1866. The February 24, 1866 edition of the Marshall County Telegraph had the following obituary in it's February 24, 1866 edition;
Mrs. Susan M. Matthews
Died in Henry, February 23, after a protracted illness, Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews. Funeral service will be held at the M. E. church by Rev. A. C. Higgins at 2 o'clock this afternoon."
The March 6, 1866 edition had the following;
"In Henry, February 22, 1866, of fever, Mrs. Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews, age 24 years and 2 months. The deceased was born in Ohio. Removed to this vicinity when but a little girl. She was made the happy subject of saving grace and united with the old school Presbyterian church in the fall of 1858. In the fall of 1859, she united with the M. E. Church. She was married to her now bereaved husband, December 20, 1860. She leaves a husband, a little boy 3 years of age and many relatives and friends to mourn her early death. ........ Her painful illness of six weeks duration was born with surprising patience. For a time she was much depressed prior to her death. God gave her songs in the night and she awoke one morning fully realizing Jesus breaks the power of cancelled sin......... For this time she enjoyed a heavenly calm till she sweetly fell asleep in hope of a blissful immortality."
James Brown Matthews was married 2nd to Mary Margaret Buckner on October 7, 1869 in McLean Co., Illinois. Mary was born on January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
At the time of the 1870 census;
James Brown Matthews
Mary M. Matthews
John Brown Matthews M 7
In 1880, John Brown Matthews is an apprentice to a printer by the name of Henry B. Luce (whose occupation is listed as a publisher). He is listed in their household in Hillsboro, Washington Co., OR.
At the time of the 1900 census, John B. Mathews is found boarding in North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts Forest Grove city, Washington County, Oregon;
Walter Sears Head M 28 Oregon
Laura B Sears Wife F 28 Oregon
John B Mathews Boarder M 38 Illinois
In the 1920 and 1930 census records, John B. Mathews is found boarding with other families in Washington County, Oregon. I found John Brown Matthews residing with the Rufus H. Munkers family in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR in 1910. He is still single. In 1940, he is still single --still residing in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR and "lodging" with the Fred W. Schafer family . Occupation listed as painter contractor. Highest grade completed was 5th grade. His tombstone in the Forest Grove Cemetery shows birth year as 1860 which I do not believe is correct. Census records place year of birth closer to 1863-1864. His date of death appears as January 4, 1948.
John Brown Matthews' mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 27742581.
Since the birth of the two children to Mary Margaret appear in both Illinois and Oregon, the trek to Oregon must have taken place about 1872 which may also explain why John B. Matthews' education ended with the 5th grade. The father, James B. Matthews, is shown as having "consumption" in the 1880 federal census and his death was shortly thereafter. John B. Matthews was probably pretty much on his own almost before reaching his teen years. His obituary, if one could be found, might be interesting!
James Brown Matthews was then married 2nd in McLean County, Illinois on October 7, 1869 to Mary Margaret Buckner, who was born c. January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
Two children are known to have been born to James and Mary. They are;
2. Frank Buckner Matthews, born October __, 1870 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois. Frank was married c. 1899/1900 to Caroline E. Stewart, who was born in Northfield, Minnesota.
Frank and Caroline had the following children;
A. Stewart Matthews, born February 5, 1902 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Stewart is found with the family in the 1910 and 1920 census records.
Stewart is almost certainly the Stewart Matthews, who is found in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Washington, where he is a Purchasing Agent for a lumber mill;
Stewart Mattews Head M 28 Massachusetts
Charlotte Mattews Wife F 24 Washington
Prudence Kennedy Maid F 20 Idaho
Stewart is almost certain the Stewart Matthews who in 1940 is found in Bellevue Election Precinct 1, King County, Washington. He is an Insurance Broker. He was previously in Bellingham, Washington;
Stewart Matthews Head M 38 Massachusetts
Violet J Matthews Wife F 37 Kansas
Stewart Matthews died on October 22, 1981 in Riverside, California. His burial site is not known.
B. James Buckner Matthews, born June 28, 1903 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
At the time of the 1900 census, Frank and Caroline are found in residing at #8 Braemore Road in Newton city Ward 7, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, where he is a Clergyman;
Frank B Matthew Head M Oct 1870 30 Illinois
Caroline E Matthew Wife F Apr 1872 28 Minnesota
Millie Mc Kay Servant F 22 Canada Eng
At the time of the 1910 census, Frank and his family are found residing at 222 Cajohn Street in the city of Redlands, Redlands Township, San Bernardino County, California, where he is Preacher D. D. in a Baptist Church;
Frank B Matthews Head M 39 Minnesota
Caroline Matthews Wife F 35 Minnesota
Stuart Matthews Son M 8 Massachusetts
James B Matthews Son M 6 Massachusetts
On ___________ __, 1917, Caroline E. (Stewart) Matthews died in Redlands, California and her mortal remains were laid in the Hillside Memorial Park in Redlands, San Bernardino County, California. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 29910777.
Shortly after her death Frank took a position as minister of a church in the city of Seattle, Washington. At the time of the 1920 census, Frank and his sons are found in Seattle, King County, Washington;
Frank B Matthews Head M 49 Illinois
Stewart Matthews Son M 18 Massachusetts
James Matthews Son M 16 Massachusetts
In the 1920's Frank was married to Ella Mary ____________, who was born c. 1892/93 in Washington. They were the parents of;
C. Robert Wayne Matthews, born c. May __, 1925 in Seattle, Washington. Robert is very likely the Robert W. Matthews, who was born c. June 1, 1925 and who died in King County, Washington on March 3, 2004.
At the time of the 1930 census, Frank and his family are found renting a home at 2219 Van Buren Street in Corvallis, Benton County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 58 Illinois
Ella Mary Matthews Wife F 37 Washington
Robert Wayne Matthews Son M 4 11/12 Washington
At the time of the 1940 census, Frank and his family reside at 5724 N. Moore Street in the city of Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 69 Illinois
Ella H Matthews Wife F 47 Washington
Robert Matthews Son M 14 Washington
3. Anna Maude Matthews, born September 16, 1872 in or near Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. Anna was married on November 28, 1895 at Carlton, Yamhill County, Oregon to Frederick Stanley Dunn (1872 - 1937).
Anna and Frederick were the parents of two children;
A. Dorothy G. Dunn, born c. 1897/98 in Oregon.
B. Frederick Berrian Dunn, born c. 1900/01 in Oregon.
At the time of the 1920 census, Anna and her family are found in Ward 1 of the city of Eugene, Lane County, Oregon;
Frederick S Dunn Head M 47 Oregon
Anna M Dunn Wife F 47 Oregon
Dorothy G Dunn Daughter F 22 Oregon
F Berrian Dunn Son M 19 Oregon
Anna Maude (Matthews) Dunn died on January 3, 1939 in Lane County, Oregon and her mortal remains were laid in the Rest-Haven Memorial Park in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 66789265.
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Mary are found in Tazewell County,Illinois;
James Matthews M 34 Illinois
Mary Matthews F 24 Illinois
John Matthews M 7 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, James and Mary are found residing in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. They are listed as follows;
J. B. MATTHEWS, born c. 1836 in IL
Mary MATTHEWS, born c. 1844 in IL
Frank MATTHEWS, born c. 1871 in IL
Anna MATTHEWS, born c. 1873 in OR
James' father and brother are living with Mr. I. L. & M. Smith, who is James and Edward's Sister & Brother-in-law, in Forest Grove as well. M. Smith is listed as being born c. 1831 in Ohio. James Matthews is listed as a Widower, so Eliza died sometime before 1880. They are listed as follows;
James MATTHEWS, born c. 1803 in MD
Edward MATTHEWS, born c. 1851 in IL
According to the Pension Card on exhibit on Footnote.com, it appears that Private James B. Mathews died on June 1, 1878 in Forest Grove, Oregon. The Pension Card on Ancestry.com states that his widow was Mary M. Shelton and that she began collecting a Pension on November 21, 1916 in California.
His is actually believed to have died on June 26, 1880 in Forest Grove, Washington Co., Oregon at age 44 and his earthly remains were laid to rest in Forest View Cemetery, Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Jean Edwards had the following to say after photographing his grave for his Find A Grave site. "Baxter, I too was thrilled to find such an old and remarkable grave and person. It is located in a beautiful spot with large trees and a view over a green valley. He must have had quite a story and life. Oregon was a young place then, and there are several Civil War era markers there, which was a surprise."
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews was then married to John W. Shelton. Mary and John known to have had one daughter, Prince V. Shelton. At the time of the 1900 census, Mary and her family are found in Carlton and LaFayette Precincts Carlton and LaFayette towns, Yamhill County, Oregon. Mary is listed as having had three children, all of whom are living;
John V Shelton Head M May 1833 67 Missouri
Mary M Shelton Wife F Jan 1844 56 Illinois
Prince V Shelton Daughter F Sep 1887 13 Oregon
Audrey Waller Niece F Aug 1881 19 Oregon
Walter Helvie Servant M Mar 1878 22 Indiana
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews Shelton died on February 9, 1929 in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. After her death, her body was shipped to Forest Grove, Oregon, where it apparently was laid beside that of James B. Matthews.
by Baxter B. Fite III; Andy Anderson; Gary Arends, whose email address is [email protected] : and Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois.
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Matthews family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Private James B. Matthews and the Matthews family. Baxter would also be interested in seeing more photographs of Private James B. Matthews.)
James Brown Matthews was born on April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois, the son of James Matthews and Elizabeth "Eliza" Bleroe (Brown) Matthews. The elder James Matthews/Mathews was born c. November 27, 1803 in or near Baltimore, Maryland. His birth was recorded in the Saint Peters Protestant Epicopal Church in Baltimore. He is believed to be the son of John Matthews and Martha Grube. The elder James Matthews spent the first 20 years of his life there in the Baltimore area. About 1823/24, James moved west to Ohio, where he settled near Dayton, Ohio. James Matthews was married to Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe Brown on September 25, 1827 in Bethel, Miami County, Ohio, who was born c. 1806/07 in Ohio.
At the time of the 1830 census, the Matthews are believed to have been still residing in Ohio. About 1832/33, the elder James Matthews continued his progress west, moving to Illinois, where they settled in Tazewell County, Illinois. In May of 2014, Carol found that "James Matthews purchased, on 12 Apr 1834, a tract of land from James & Mary McClure. James and Eliza Matthews sold a tract of land, on 24 Jun 1836, to Samuel Judy."
Twelve children, seven girls and five boys, are believed to have been born to James and Eliza, including;
(PROBABLY) 1. Catharine Matthews, born August 12, 1828. Catherine Matthews was married to Elias Duvall on November 9, 1848 in Tazewell County, Illinois. Catherine died on 17 Jan 1849 in Tazewell County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois. See her Find A Grave Memorial #173536231.
2. Margaret Matthews, born June 21, 1831 in Illinois. Margaret was married to Irvin Lucian Smith on January 1, 1849 in Taewell County, Illinois. One daughter is known to have been born to Margaret and Irvin;
A. Mary Eliza (Smith) Hinman (1852-1874).
Margaret (Matthews) Smith died on August 30, 1894 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mountain View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
3. Sarah E. Matthews, born c. 1833 in Illinois; A Sarah E. Matthews was married to James W. Search on July 17, 1856 in Tazewell County, Illinois; James W. Search served in Troop F of the 3rd Illinois Cavalry during the Civil War; James and Sarah are known to have had at least two children, Rosa Bell Search, born c. 1857/58 in Illinois and Jacob M. Search, who was born c. 1862 and who was married on November 11, 1915 in Yuba, California to Alice B. Keene, who was 44 years of age at the time they married. Her parents were John Ware and Harriet E. Cummings. Jacob M. Search died in 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Red Bluff, Tehama County, California.
At the time of the 1870 census, James W. and Sarah E. (Matthews) Search are found in Lostant, Hope Township, LaSalle County, Illinois, where he is listed as a Physician and Surgeon;
James Search M 36 Pennsylvania
Sarah Search F 36 Illinois
Rosa Bell Search F 12 Illinois
Jacob Search M 8 Illinois
Julia A Carter F 32 New York
Nina M. Carter F 9
As far as James Search and Sarah Ella Matthews, I think the Rosa Bell Search who married John Archibald in Tazewell Co., IL is probably their daughter. There is a discrepancy on the date of marriage, though, as the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index has January 4, 1875 as the date of marriage. The online Illinois Marriages, 1851-1900 database has March 27, 1873 as the year of marriage—both in Tazewell Co. Not sure which is correct, but would tend to lean toward the 1875 as she would have been about 15 in 1873!
As I indicated earlier, the 1886 Peoria City Directory has Sarah E. Search listed as widowed. I think that is probably correct as, in the 1880 federal census, this family listing is in Peoria , Peoria Co., IL.
John Archibald, 25, carpenter, Scotland , Scotland , England
Bell Archibald, 22, IL, PA, IL
Sarah E. Search, 46 (mother-in-law), IL, MD, IL
At the present time, I've not located John and Bell after the 1880 federal census. There are a John Archibald and Clara Archibald buried in the Walnut Hill Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. Could Bell's name been Clara Bell? They died in the 1880's.
I'm suspicious about a Jacob Search who, in 1880, is found in West Omaha, Douglas Co., NE. He is 18 years of age and listed as a "workman." Note is also made that he is "crippled." I've been unable to locate him in 1900 or 1910, but there is a Jacob M. Search who shows up in CA in 1920 and 1930 that well could be the same individual. Married to an Alise B. Keene ( Keene is a married name and not her maiden name). She, has been married previously as a Thomas W. Keene is 17 years of age and residing in the family unit—noted as a step-son. There is also a daughter listed, Fannie A. Search (age 9); however, the 1930 federal census notes she is a "stepdaughter". The family, in 1920, is in Marysville Ward 4, Yuba , CA and in Red Bluff, Tehama , CA in 1930. Jacob M. Search died on May 13, 1938 in Tehama , CA at age 76.
Confusingly, at the time of the 1880 census, a James W. Search is found in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, where he is a practicing Physician. He is married to a Ella Search, who was born c. 1837/38 in New York. Were Sarah and James W. Search divorced rather than widowed" This Jacob does fit what we know about James and Sarah's son;
Self J W Search M 45 Pennsylvania
Wife Ella Search F 42 New York
Son Jacob Search M 18 Illinois
Son Willie Search M 4 Nebraska
At the time of the 1885 census, James Search is found in Ward 4 of the City of Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska;
James Search M 51
Wife Ellen Search F 47
Son Wm Search M 9
James W. Search was born on October __, 1835 and died on January 31, 1907 and his mortal remains were laid in the Soldiers And Sailors Cemetery in Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska.
4. James Brown Matthews, born April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois; See his biography below.
5. Eliza Matthews, born c. December 16, 1837/39/40 near Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; Eliza was married William Crosley (misspelled CROASY) on February 12, 1857 in Tazewell County, Illinois; About 1872/73, they moved with her father to Forest Grove, Oregon; Eliza and William were the parents of eight children. Eliza (Matthews) Crosley died on July 9, 1899 and her mortal remains were laid in the in Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her and her family.
6. John Matthews, born November 17, 1839 in Illinois. John died on January 12, 1849 at the age of 9y, 1m & 26d and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Township in Tazewell County, Illinois.
7. William R. Matthews, born c. 1841/42 in Tazewell County, Illinois. William is very likely the William Raper Mathews, who is found on the Voter Registration on 30 Aug 1875 in 572 Minna 10, San Francisco, California. At the time of his father's death in 1898, William R. Matthews was residing in Martinez, California.
8. Mary Marinda Matthews, born January 23, 1844 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois; Mary was married to Henry Clay Layten on May 6, 1867 in Tazewell County, Illinois; Henry had served in Co. G of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; Mary died on August 5, 1902 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; See Henry Clay Layten's Find A Grave site for more information about Henry and Mary's life and family.
9. Edward Matthews, born c. January __, 1845/46 in Tazewell County, Illinois. At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, Edward Matthews is found residing with his oldest sister, Margaret, and her family and with his widowed father in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon.
However, at the time of his father's death in 1898, Edward is listed as residing in Mackinaw, Illinois in Tazewell County. However, after his father's death, or perhaps at his father's death, it appears Edward came west to Oregon and decided to stay, at least for a while. At the time of the 1900 census, Edward is believed to be the Edward Matthews, who was born in January of 1846 in Illinois and who lives in the City of Forest Grove, North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts, of Washington County, Oregon. He is single at this time and his father and mother are listed as having been born in Maryland and Ohio. Nothing more is known about Edward at this time, it is not known if he stayed on in Oregon or returned to Illinois. It is not known when he died or where his mortal remains were laid.
10. Infant son Matthews, born on 18__. Died on September 11, 1853 and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
11. Julia A. Matthews, born on November 25, 1853 in Illinois. Julia died on May 12, 1868 at the age of 14y, 5m & 17d and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
12. Charles Matthews, born and died c. 1858. His mortal remains may also lie in the Mackinaw Cemetery.
The Mathews family is found residing in Tazewell County, Illinois at the time of the 1850 census;
James Mathews M 47 Maryland Tanner & Courier
Eliza P Mathews F 44 Ohio
Sarah Mathews F 17 Illinois
James Mathews M 14 Illinois
Eliza Mathews F 10 Illinois
William Mathews M 8 Illinois
Mary Mathews F 6 Illinois
Edward Mathews M 4 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, the Matthews family is found in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Mathews M 57 Md
Eliza P Mathews F 54 O
Wm R Mathews M 17 Ill
Mary Mathews F 16 Ill
Edward Mathews M 14 Ill
Julia Mathews F 6 Ill
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Eliza are believed to be found in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Matthews M 66 Maryland
Eliza Matthews F 63 Ohio
Mary Birkett F 16 Ohio
Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe (Brown) Matthews died on March 5, 1872 at the age of 66y, 2m & 5d in or near Mackinaw, Iazewell County, Illinois. Her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
In 1871, the year before Eliza's death, Thomas Lenard Matthews, who was born on October 9, 1814 in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Maryland and who was very likely the elder James Matthews younger brother, died in or near Mackinaw, Illinois. His mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
Later in 1872, after his wife's death, James Matthews again continued his migration west, moving with a number of his children to Oregon, where they settled in the Forest Grove area of Washington County, Oregon.
At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, James Matthews is found residing with his oldest daughter, Margaret, and her family in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon;
I. L. Smith, 53, Cabinet Maker (sick - ?? infl.), OH, Nov. Scot, NY
M. Smith, 49, Keeping House, OH, MD, OH
Etta Smith, 21, Teacher in Red Lake , IL , OH, OH
George Smith, 19, Cabinet Maker, IL, OH, OH
Elmer Smith, 18, IL, OH, OH
Willie Smith, 13, IL, OH, OH
Liley Day Smith, 11, IL, OH, OH
Fred Smith, 9, IL, OH, OH
Carrie Smith, 8, IL, OH, OH
Jas Matthews (father-in-law), 77, Tanner & Courier, MD, --, --
Edward Matthews, 29, Farm Laborer, IL, MD, OH
Some of James Matthews later years were spent residing with his daughter, Mrs Eliza Crosley, as well. The elder James Matthews died on October 24, 1898 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon at the age of 94 years, 10 months and 30 days. His mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Someone also set up a site for "Grandfather Matthews" in the Mountain View Memorial Gardens, Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR. No birth or death dates and note made that there is no record in the "Cemetery Records Book". Also, buried in the Forest View cemetery is Margaret Mathews Smith, w/o Irvin Lucian Smith. Birth date of June 21, 1831 and death date of August 30, 1894.
Now to continue with the biography of James Brown Matthews;
James B. Matthews
On August 9, 1862, James B. Mathews volunteered in Marshall County to serve in a company which was being raised in the Henry, Illinois area of Marshall County, by a man by the name of Elias C. Brearly. At the time he volunteered, James gave his residence as Whitefield Township in Marshall County, Illinois.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name MATHEWS, JAMES B
Rank PVT Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL Age 26 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair DARK
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks N/A
A few days later, when Brearly had about 100 volunteers, he led the Marshall County volunteers into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Brearly and 88 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. B of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Brearly was elected Captain of Co. B.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
During the next two and a half years, Private James B. Matthews served faithfully in Co. B as the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina and North Carolina. During this time, James was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia, Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Jonesboro, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, to name a few and marched with Sherman to the Sea.
On June 6, 1865, Private James B. Mathews was with the surviving members of the 86th Illinois when they were mustered out of service on June 6, 1865 at Washington, D.C. He then, with the surviving members of Co. B, returned to their homes and families in Marshall County, Illinois.
On March 11, 2011, I got the following email from Andy Anderson. His email address is: oxdrover
"I appreciate the work you're doing in finding the graves of these Civil War soldiers. By now you may have already satisfied yourself that James B. Mathews of Co B, 86th IL Vol Inf, was the James B. Matthews (note the spelling) (18 Apr 1836 - 26 Jun 1880) that Findagrave.com shows is buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. [Looking at the pension card you described on Footnote.com, on my monitor I clearly see "Forest Grove, Oreg." as the place of death, but I can't explain the discrepancy of the death date on the card with the death date on the tombstone.] The pension record shows that James B. Mathews (of B/86) left a widow named Mary M. Shelton. Findagrave.com shows Mary Margaret Buckner was married first to James B. Mathews. This marriage took place 7 Oct 1869 in McLean Co IL, according to the online Illinois Statewide Marriage Index. Secondly Mary married John V. Shelton. Mary was born 1845 and died 1929, and also buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove. Her tombstone is found under the name Mary Margaret Shelton. James was married at the time of his entering the Army in 1862. I believe this wife was Susannah M. Matthews. Her marriage to James B. Matthews took place 20 Dec 1860 in Stark Co IL. This county borders Marshall Co IL, where James of Co B/86 enlisted from.
The 1880 census shows James B. Matthews of Washington Co OR was the son of a father born in Maryland ("Md.", not Mississippi, as someone suggested at Findagrave) and mother born in Ohio. The Illinois family matching these criteria in 1850 is the family of James and Eliza Matthews of Tazewell Co IL. James (Sr.) was born in MD and Eliza in Ohio. They had a son James age 14, or born in 1836. Tazewell Co IL is only two counties south of Marshall and Stark Cos, and next door to McLean Co, where James married Mary Buckner in 1869. James and Mary appear in the Tazewell Co 1870 census. James is age 34 and Mary is 24. The census indicates they were married the previous October (which supports their being the same couple as in the marriage record). In their household was a child named John, age 7, presumably by James' first marriage. In 1880 they're in Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. I don't know what became of John; he's not listed with James and Mary in 1880.
Good luck with your project. Have you had any cooperation from the Adjutant General of Illinois? Many years ago they responded to several of my requests for info on my Civil War ancestors' resting places, but they no longer seem to be willing to help as in the past.
Andy Anderson"
As stated above, James B. Matthew was married at the time he entered the service in 1862. James was married to Susannah M. ___________ on December 20, 1860 in Stark County, Illinois. Susan was born c. December __, 1841. One son is believed to have been born to James and Susannah;
1. John Brown Matthews, born c. November __, 1862 in Illinois, possibly in Tazewell County, Illinois. John was never married. John Brown Matthews died on January 4, 1948 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Susan M. (____________) Matthews died on February 23, 1866. The February 24, 1866 edition of the Marshall County Telegraph had the following obituary in it's February 24, 1866 edition;
Mrs. Susan M. Matthews
Died in Henry, February 23, after a protracted illness, Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews. Funeral service will be held at the M. E. church by Rev. A. C. Higgins at 2 o'clock this afternoon."
The March 6, 1866 edition had the following;
"In Henry, February 22, 1866, of fever, Mrs. Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews, age 24 years and 2 months. The deceased was born in Ohio. Removed to this vicinity when but a little girl. She was made the happy subject of saving grace and united with the old school Presbyterian church in the fall of 1858. In the fall of 1859, she united with the M. E. Church. She was married to her now bereaved husband, December 20, 1860. She leaves a husband, a little boy 3 years of age and many relatives and friends to mourn her early death. ........ Her painful illness of six weeks duration was born with surprising patience. For a time she was much depressed prior to her death. God gave her songs in the night and she awoke one morning fully realizing Jesus breaks the power of cancelled sin......... For this time she enjoyed a heavenly calm till she sweetly fell asleep in hope of a blissful immortality."
James Brown Matthews was married 2nd to Mary Margaret Buckner on October 7, 1869 in McLean Co., Illinois. Mary was born on January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
At the time of the 1870 census;
James Brown Matthews
Mary M. Matthews
John Brown Matthews M 7
In 1880, John Brown Matthews is an apprentice to a printer by the name of Henry B. Luce (whose occupation is listed as a publisher). He is listed in their household in Hillsboro, Washington Co., OR.
At the time of the 1900 census, John B. Mathews is found boarding in North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts Forest Grove city, Washington County, Oregon;
Walter Sears Head M 28 Oregon
Laura B Sears Wife F 28 Oregon
John B Mathews Boarder M 38 Illinois
In the 1920 and 1930 census records, John B. Mathews is found boarding with other families in Washington County, Oregon. I found John Brown Matthews residing with the Rufus H. Munkers family in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR in 1910. He is still single. In 1940, he is still single --still residing in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR and "lodging" with the Fred W. Schafer family . Occupation listed as painter contractor. Highest grade completed was 5th grade. His tombstone in the Forest Grove Cemetery shows birth year as 1860 which I do not believe is correct. Census records place year of birth closer to 1863-1864. His date of death appears as January 4, 1948.
John Brown Matthews' mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 27742581.
Since the birth of the two children to Mary Margaret appear in both Illinois and Oregon, the trek to Oregon must have taken place about 1872 which may also explain why John B. Matthews' education ended with the 5th grade. The father, James B. Matthews, is shown as having "consumption" in the 1880 federal census and his death was shortly thereafter. John B. Matthews was probably pretty much on his own almost before reaching his teen years. His obituary, if one could be found, might be interesting!
James Brown Matthews was then married 2nd in McLean County, Illinois on October 7, 1869 to Mary Margaret Buckner, who was born c. January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
Two children are known to have been born to James and Mary. They are;
2. Frank Buckner Matthews, born October __, 1870 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois. Frank was married c. 1899/1900 to Caroline E. Stewart, who was born in Northfield, Minnesota.
Frank and Caroline had the following children;
A. Stewart Matthews, born February 5, 1902 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Stewart is found with the family in the 1910 and 1920 census records.
Stewart is almost certainly the Stewart Matthews, who is found in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Washington, where he is a Purchasing Agent for a lumber mill;
Stewart Mattews Head M 28 Massachusetts
Charlotte Mattews Wife F 24 Washington
Prudence Kennedy Maid F 20 Idaho
Stewart is almost certain the Stewart Matthews who in 1940 is found in Bellevue Election Precinct 1, King County, Washington. He is an Insurance Broker. He was previously in Bellingham, Washington;
Stewart Matthews Head M 38 Massachusetts
Violet J Matthews Wife F 37 Kansas
Stewart Matthews died on October 22, 1981 in Riverside, California. His burial site is not known.
B. James Buckner Matthews, born June 28, 1903 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
At the time of the 1900 census, Frank and Caroline are found in residing at #8 Braemore Road in Newton city Ward 7, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, where he is a Clergyman;
Frank B Matthew Head M Oct 1870 30 Illinois
Caroline E Matthew Wife F Apr 1872 28 Minnesota
Millie Mc Kay Servant F 22 Canada Eng
At the time of the 1910 census, Frank and his family are found residing at 222 Cajohn Street in the city of Redlands, Redlands Township, San Bernardino County, California, where he is Preacher D. D. in a Baptist Church;
Frank B Matthews Head M 39 Minnesota
Caroline Matthews Wife F 35 Minnesota
Stuart Matthews Son M 8 Massachusetts
James B Matthews Son M 6 Massachusetts
On ___________ __, 1917, Caroline E. (Stewart) Matthews died in Redlands, California and her mortal remains were laid in the Hillside Memorial Park in Redlands, San Bernardino County, California. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 29910777.
Shortly after her death Frank took a position as minister of a church in the city of Seattle, Washington. At the time of the 1920 census, Frank and his sons are found in Seattle, King County, Washington;
Frank B Matthews Head M 49 Illinois
Stewart Matthews Son M 18 Massachusetts
James Matthews Son M 16 Massachusetts
In the 1920's Frank was married to Ella Mary ____________, who was born c. 1892/93 in Washington. They were the parents of;
C. Robert Wayne Matthews, born c. May __, 1925 in Seattle, Washington. Robert is very likely the Robert W. Matthews, who was born c. June 1, 1925 and who died in King County, Washington on March 3, 2004.
At the time of the 1930 census, Frank and his family are found renting a home at 2219 Van Buren Street in Corvallis, Benton County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 58 Illinois
Ella Mary Matthews Wife F 37 Washington
Robert Wayne Matthews Son M 4 11/12 Washington
At the time of the 1940 census, Frank and his family reside at 5724 N. Moore Street in the city of Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 69 Illinois
Ella H Matthews Wife F 47 Washington
Robert Matthews Son M 14 Washington
3. Anna Maude Matthews, born September 16, 1872 in or near Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. Anna was married on November 28, 1895 at Carlton, Yamhill County, Oregon to Frederick Stanley Dunn (1872 - 1937).
Anna and Frederick were the parents of two children;
A. Dorothy G. Dunn, born c. 1897/98 in Oregon.
B. Frederick Berrian Dunn, born c. 1900/01 in Oregon.
At the time of the 1920 census, Anna and her family are found in Ward 1 of the city of Eugene, Lane County, Oregon;
Frederick S Dunn Head M 47 Oregon
Anna M Dunn Wife F 47 Oregon
Dorothy G Dunn Daughter F 22 Oregon
F Berrian Dunn Son M 19 Oregon
Anna Maude (Matthews) Dunn died on January 3, 1939 in Lane County, Oregon and her mortal remains were laid in the Rest-Haven Memorial Park in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 66789265.
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Mary are found in Tazewell County,Illinois;
James Matthews M 34 Illinois
Mary Matthews F 24 Illinois
John Matthews M 7 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, James and Mary are found residing in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. They are listed as follows;
J. B. MATTHEWS, born c. 1836 in IL
Mary MATTHEWS, born c. 1844 in IL
Frank MATTHEWS, born c. 1871 in IL
Anna MATTHEWS, born c. 1873 in OR
James' father and brother are living with Mr. I. L. & M. Smith, who is James and Edward's Sister & Brother-in-law, in Forest Grove as well. M. Smith is listed as being born c. 1831 in Ohio. James Matthews is listed as a Widower, so Eliza died sometime before 1880. They are listed as follows;
James MATTHEWS, born c. 1803 in MD
Edward MATTHEWS, born c. 1851 in IL
According to the Pension Card on exhibit on Footnote.com, it appears that Private James B. Mathews died on June 1, 1878 in Forest Grove, Oregon. The Pension Card on Ancestry.com states that his widow was Mary M. Shelton and that she began collecting a Pension on November 21, 1916 in California.
His is actually believed to have died on June 26, 1880 in Forest Grove, Washington Co., Oregon at age 44 and his earthly remains were laid to rest in Forest View Cemetery, Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Jean Edwards had the following to say after photographing his grave for his Find A Grave site. "Baxter, I too was thrilled to find such an old and remarkable grave and person. It is located in a beautiful spot with large trees and a view over a green valley. He must have had quite a story and life. Oregon was a young place then, and there are several Civil War era markers there, which was a surprise."
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews was then married to John W. Shelton. Mary and John known to have had one daughter, Prince V. Shelton. At the time of the 1900 census, Mary and her family are found in Carlton and LaFayette Precincts Carlton and LaFayette towns, Yamhill County, Oregon. Mary is listed as having had three children, all of whom are living;
John V Shelton Head M May 1833 67 Missouri
Mary M Shelton Wife F Jan 1844 56 Illinois
Prince V Shelton Daughter F Sep 1887 13 Oregon
Audrey Waller Niece F Aug 1881 19 Oregon
Walter Helvie Servant M Mar 1878 22 Indiana
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews Shelton died on February 9, 1929 in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. After her death, her body was shipped to Forest Grove, Oregon, where it apparently was laid beside that of James B. Matthews.
by Baxter B. Fite III; Andy Anderson; Gary Arends, whose email address is [email protected] : and Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois.
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Matthews family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Private James B. Matthews and the Matthews family. Baxter would also be interested in seeing more photographs of Private James B. Matthews.)
Private JAMES BROWN MATTHEWS, Co. B. 86th Illinois
James Brown Matthews was born on April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois, the son of James Matthews and Elizabeth "Eliza" Bleroe (Brown) Matthews. The elder James Matthews/Mathews was born c. November 27, 1803 in or near Baltimore, Maryland. His birth was recorded in the Saint Peters Protestant Epicopal Church in Baltimore. He is believed to be the son of John Matthews and Martha Grube. The elder James Matthews spent the first 20 years of his life there in the Baltimore area. About 1823/24, James moved west to Ohio, where he settled near Dayton, Ohio. James Matthews was married to Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe Brown on September 25, 1827 in Bethel, Miami County, Ohio, who was born c. 1806/07 in Ohio.
At the time of the 1830 census, the Matthews are believed to have been still residing in Ohio. About 1832/33, the elder James Matthews continued his progress west, moving to Illinois, where they settled in Tazewell County, Illinois. In May of 2014, Carol found that "James Matthews purchased, on 12 Apr 1834, a tract of land from James & Mary McClure. James and Eliza Matthews sold a tract of land, on 24 Jun 1836, to Samuel Judy."
Twelve children, seven girls and five boys, are believed to have been born to James and Eliza, including;
(PROBABLY) 1. Catharine Matthews, born August 12, 1828. Catherine Matthews was married to Elias Duvall on November 9, 1848 in Tazewell County, Illinois. Catherine died on 17 Jan 1849 in Tazewell County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois. See her Find A Grave Memorial #173536231.
2. Margaret Matthews, born June 21, 1831 in Illinois. Margaret was married to Irvin Lucian Smith on January 1, 1849 in Taewell County, Illinois. One daughter is known to have been born to Margaret and Irvin;
A. Mary Eliza (Smith) Hinman (1852-1874).
Margaret (Matthews) Smith died on August 30, 1894 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mountain View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
3. Sarah E. Matthews, born c. 1833 in Illinois; A Sarah E. Matthews was married to James W. Search on July 17, 1856 in Tazewell County, Illinois; James W. Search served in Troop F of the 3rd Illinois Cavalry during the Civil War; James and Sarah are known to have had at least two children, Rosa Bell Search, born c. 1857/58 in Illinois and Jacob M. Search, who was born c. 1862 and who was married on November 11, 1915 in Yuba, California to Alice B. Keene, who was 44 years of age at the time they married. Her parents were John Ware and Harriet E. Cummings. Jacob M. Search died in 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Red Bluff, Tehama County, California.
At the time of the 1870 census, James W. and Sarah E. (Matthews) Search are found in Lostant, Hope Township, LaSalle County, Illinois, where he is listed as a Physician and Surgeon;
James Search M 36 Pennsylvania
Sarah Search F 36 Illinois
Rosa Bell Search F 12 Illinois
Jacob Search M 8 Illinois
Julia A Carter F 32 New York
Nina M. Carter F 9
As far as James Search and Sarah Ella Matthews, I think the Rosa Bell Search who married John Archibald in Tazewell Co., IL is probably their daughter. There is a discrepancy on the date of marriage, though, as the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index has January 4, 1875 as the date of marriage. The online Illinois Marriages, 1851-1900 database has March 27, 1873 as the year of marriage—both in Tazewell Co. Not sure which is correct, but would tend to lean toward the 1875 as she would have been about 15 in 1873!
As I indicated earlier, the 1886 Peoria City Directory has Sarah E. Search listed as widowed. I think that is probably correct as, in the 1880 federal census, this family listing is in Peoria , Peoria Co., IL.
John Archibald, 25, carpenter, Scotland , Scotland , England
Bell Archibald, 22, IL, PA, IL
Sarah E. Search, 46 (mother-in-law), IL, MD, IL
At the present time, I've not located John and Bell after the 1880 federal census. There are a John Archibald and Clara Archibald buried in the Walnut Hill Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. Could Bell's name been Clara Bell? They died in the 1880's.
I'm suspicious about a Jacob Search who, in 1880, is found in West Omaha, Douglas Co., NE. He is 18 years of age and listed as a "workman." Note is also made that he is "crippled." I've been unable to locate him in 1900 or 1910, but there is a Jacob M. Search who shows up in CA in 1920 and 1930 that well could be the same individual. Married to an Alise B. Keene ( Keene is a married name and not her maiden name). She, has been married previously as a Thomas W. Keene is 17 years of age and residing in the family unit—noted as a step-son. There is also a daughter listed, Fannie A. Search (age 9); however, the 1930 federal census notes she is a "stepdaughter". The family, in 1920, is in Marysville Ward 4, Yuba , CA and in Red Bluff, Tehama , CA in 1930. Jacob M. Search died on May 13, 1938 in Tehama , CA at age 76.
Confusingly, at the time of the 1880 census, a James W. Search is found in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, where he is a practicing Physician. He is married to a Ella Search, who was born c. 1837/38 in New York. Were Sarah and James W. Search divorced rather than widowed" This Jacob does fit what we know about James and Sarah's son;
Self J W Search M 45 Pennsylvania
Wife Ella Search F 42 New York
Son Jacob Search M 18 Illinois
Son Willie Search M 4 Nebraska
At the time of the 1885 census, James Search is found in Ward 4 of the City of Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska;
James Search M 51
Wife Ellen Search F 47
Son Wm Search M 9
James W. Search was born on October __, 1835 and died on January 31, 1907 and his mortal remains were laid in the Soldiers And Sailors Cemetery in Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska.
4. James Brown Matthews, born April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois; See his biography below.
5. Eliza Matthews, born c. December 16, 1837/39/40 near Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; Eliza was married William Crosley (misspelled CROASY) on February 12, 1857 in Tazewell County, Illinois; About 1872/73, they moved with her father to Forest Grove, Oregon; Eliza and William were the parents of eight children. Eliza (Matthews) Crosley died on July 9, 1899 and her mortal remains were laid in the in Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her and her family.
6. John Matthews, born November 17, 1839 in Illinois. John died on January 12, 1849 at the age of 9y, 1m & 26d and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Township in Tazewell County, Illinois.
7. William R. Matthews, born c. 1841/42 in Tazewell County, Illinois. William is very likely the William Raper Mathews, who is found on the Voter Registration on 30 Aug 1875 in 572 Minna 10, San Francisco, California. At the time of his father's death in 1898, William R. Matthews was residing in Martinez, California.
8. Mary Marinda Matthews, born January 23, 1844 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois; Mary was married to Henry Clay Layten on May 6, 1867 in Tazewell County, Illinois; Henry had served in Co. G of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; Mary died on August 5, 1902 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; See Henry Clay Layten's Find A Grave site for more information about Henry and Mary's life and family.
9. Edward Matthews, born c. January __, 1845/46 in Tazewell County, Illinois. At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, Edward Matthews is found residing with his oldest sister, Margaret, and her family and with his widowed father in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon.
However, at the time of his father's death in 1898, Edward is listed as residing in Mackinaw, Illinois in Tazewell County. However, after his father's death, or perhaps at his father's death, it appears Edward came west to Oregon and decided to stay, at least for a while. At the time of the 1900 census, Edward is believed to be the Edward Matthews, who was born in January of 1846 in Illinois and who lives in the City of Forest Grove, North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts, of Washington County, Oregon. He is single at this time and his father and mother are listed as having been born in Maryland and Ohio. Nothing more is known about Edward at this time, it is not known if he stayed on in Oregon or returned to Illinois. It is not known when he died or where his mortal remains were laid.
10. Infant son Matthews, born on 18__. Died on September 11, 1853 and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
11. Julia A. Matthews, born on November 25, 1853 in Illinois. Julia died on May 12, 1868 at the age of 14y, 5m & 17d and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
12. Charles Matthews, born and died c. 1858. His mortal remains may also lie in the Mackinaw Cemetery.
The Mathews family is found residing in Tazewell County, Illinois at the time of the 1850 census;
James Mathews M 47 Maryland Tanner & Courier
Eliza P Mathews F 44 Ohio
Sarah Mathews F 17 Illinois
James Mathews M 14 Illinois
Eliza Mathews F 10 Illinois
William Mathews M 8 Illinois
Mary Mathews F 6 Illinois
Edward Mathews M 4 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, the Matthews family is found in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Mathews M 57 Md
Eliza P Mathews F 54 O
Wm R Mathews M 17 Ill
Mary Mathews F 16 Ill
Edward Mathews M 14 Ill
Julia Mathews F 6 Ill
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Eliza are believed to be found in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Matthews M 66 Maryland
Eliza Matthews F 63 Ohio
Mary Birkett F 16 Ohio
Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe (Brown) Matthews died on March 5, 1872 at the age of 66y, 2m & 5d in or near Mackinaw, Iazewell County, Illinois. Her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
In 1871, the year before Eliza's death, Thomas Lenard Matthews, who was born on October 9, 1814 in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Maryland and who was very likely the elder James Matthews younger brother, died in or near Mackinaw, Illinois. His mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
Later in 1872, after his wife's death, James Matthews again continued his migration west, moving with a number of his children to Oregon, where they settled in the Forest Grove area of Washington County, Oregon.
At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, James Matthews is found residing with his oldest daughter, Margaret, and her family in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon;
I. L. Smith, 53, Cabinet Maker (sick - ?? infl.), OH, Nov. Scot, NY
M. Smith, 49, Keeping House, OH, MD, OH
Etta Smith, 21, Teacher in Red Lake , IL , OH, OH
George Smith, 19, Cabinet Maker, IL, OH, OH
Elmer Smith, 18, IL, OH, OH
Willie Smith, 13, IL, OH, OH
Liley Day Smith, 11, IL, OH, OH
Fred Smith, 9, IL, OH, OH
Carrie Smith, 8, IL, OH, OH
Jas Matthews (father-in-law), 77, Tanner & Courier, MD, --, --
Edward Matthews, 29, Farm Laborer, IL, MD, OH
Some of James Matthews later years were spent residing with his daughter, Mrs Eliza Crosley, as well. The elder James Matthews died on October 24, 1898 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon at the age of 94 years, 10 months and 30 days. His mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Someone also set up a site for "Grandfather Matthews" in the Mountain View Memorial Gardens, Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR. No birth or death dates and note made that there is no record in the "Cemetery Records Book". Also, buried in the Forest View cemetery is Margaret Mathews Smith, w/o Irvin Lucian Smith. Birth date of June 21, 1831 and death date of August 30, 1894.
Now to continue with the biography of James Brown Matthews;
James B. Matthews
On August 9, 1862, James B. Mathews volunteered in Marshall County to serve in a company which was being raised in the Henry, Illinois area of Marshall County, by a man by the name of Elias C. Brearly. At the time he volunteered, James gave his residence as Whitefield Township in Marshall County, Illinois.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name MATHEWS, JAMES B
Rank PVT Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL Age 26 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair DARK
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks N/A
A few days later, when Brearly had about 100 volunteers, he led the Marshall County volunteers into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Brearly and 88 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. B of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Brearly was elected Captain of Co. B.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
During the next two and a half years, Private James B. Matthews served faithfully in Co. B as the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina and North Carolina. During this time, James was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia, Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Jonesboro, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, to name a few and marched with Sherman to the Sea.
On June 6, 1865, Private James B. Mathews was with the surviving members of the 86th Illinois when they were mustered out of service on June 6, 1865 at Washington, D.C. He then, with the surviving members of Co. B, returned to their homes and families in Marshall County, Illinois.
On March 11, 2011, I got the following email from Andy Anderson. His email address is: oxdrover
"I appreciate the work you're doing in finding the graves of these Civil War soldiers. By now you may have already satisfied yourself that James B. Mathews of Co B, 86th IL Vol Inf, was the James B. Matthews (note the spelling) (18 Apr 1836 - 26 Jun 1880) that Findagrave.com shows is buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. [Looking at the pension card you described on Footnote.com, on my monitor I clearly see "Forest Grove, Oreg." as the place of death, but I can't explain the discrepancy of the death date on the card with the death date on the tombstone.] The pension record shows that James B. Mathews (of B/86) left a widow named Mary M. Shelton. Findagrave.com shows Mary Margaret Buckner was married first to James B. Mathews. This marriage took place 7 Oct 1869 in McLean Co IL, according to the online Illinois Statewide Marriage Index. Secondly Mary married John V. Shelton. Mary was born 1845 and died 1929, and also buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove. Her tombstone is found under the name Mary Margaret Shelton. James was married at the time of his entering the Army in 1862. I believe this wife was Susannah M. Matthews. Her marriage to James B. Matthews took place 20 Dec 1860 in Stark Co IL. This county borders Marshall Co IL, where James of Co B/86 enlisted from.
The 1880 census shows James B. Matthews of Washington Co OR was the son of a father born in Maryland ("Md.", not Mississippi, as someone suggested at Findagrave) and mother born in Ohio. The Illinois family matching these criteria in 1850 is the family of James and Eliza Matthews of Tazewell Co IL. James (Sr.) was born in MD and Eliza in Ohio. They had a son James age 14, or born in 1836. Tazewell Co IL is only two counties south of Marshall and Stark Cos, and next door to McLean Co, where James married Mary Buckner in 1869. James and Mary appear in the Tazewell Co 1870 census. James is age 34 and Mary is 24. The census indicates they were married the previous October (which supports their being the same couple as in the marriage record). In their household was a child named John, age 7, presumably by James' first marriage. In 1880 they're in Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. I don't know what became of John; he's not listed with James and Mary in 1880.
Good luck with your project. Have you had any cooperation from the Adjutant General of Illinois? Many years ago they responded to several of my requests for info on my Civil War ancestors' resting places, but they no longer seem to be willing to help as in the past.
Andy Anderson"
As stated above, James B. Matthew was married at the time he entered the service in 1862. James was married to Susannah M. ___________ on December 20, 1860 in Stark County, Illinois. Susan was born c. December __, 1841. One son is believed to have been born to James and Susannah;
1. John Brown Matthews, born c. November __, 1862 in Illinois, possibly in Tazewell County, Illinois. John was never married. John Brown Matthews died on January 4, 1948 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Susan M. (____________) Matthews died on February 23, 1866. The February 24, 1866 edition of the Marshall County Telegraph had the following obituary in it's February 24, 1866 edition;
Mrs. Susan M. Matthews
Died in Henry, February 23, after a protracted illness, Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews. Funeral service will be held at the M. E. church by Rev. A. C. Higgins at 2 o'clock this afternoon."
The March 6, 1866 edition had the following;
"In Henry, February 22, 1866, of fever, Mrs. Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews, age 24 years and 2 months. The deceased was born in Ohio. Removed to this vicinity when but a little girl. She was made the happy subject of saving grace and united with the old school Presbyterian church in the fall of 1858. In the fall of 1859, she united with the M. E. Church. She was married to her now bereaved husband, December 20, 1860. She leaves a husband, a little boy 3 years of age and many relatives and friends to mourn her early death. ........ Her painful illness of six weeks duration was born with surprising patience. For a time she was much depressed prior to her death. God gave her songs in the night and she awoke one morning fully realizing Jesus breaks the power of cancelled sin......... For this time she enjoyed a heavenly calm till she sweetly fell asleep in hope of a blissful immortality."
James Brown Matthews was married 2nd to Mary Margaret Buckner on October 7, 1869 in McLean Co., Illinois. Mary was born on January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
At the time of the 1870 census;
James Brown Matthews
Mary M. Matthews
John Brown Matthews M 7
In 1880, John Brown Matthews is an apprentice to a printer by the name of Henry B. Luce (whose occupation is listed as a publisher). He is listed in their household in Hillsboro, Washington Co., OR.
At the time of the 1900 census, John B. Mathews is found boarding in North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts Forest Grove city, Washington County, Oregon;
Walter Sears Head M 28 Oregon
Laura B Sears Wife F 28 Oregon
John B Mathews Boarder M 38 Illinois
In the 1920 and 1930 census records, John B. Mathews is found boarding with other families in Washington County, Oregon. I found John Brown Matthews residing with the Rufus H. Munkers family in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR in 1910. He is still single. In 1940, he is still single --still residing in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR and "lodging" with the Fred W. Schafer family . Occupation listed as painter contractor. Highest grade completed was 5th grade. His tombstone in the Forest Grove Cemetery shows birth year as 1860 which I do not believe is correct. Census records place year of birth closer to 1863-1864. His date of death appears as January 4, 1948.
John Brown Matthews' mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 27742581.
Since the birth of the two children to Mary Margaret appear in both Illinois and Oregon, the trek to Oregon must have taken place about 1872 which may also explain why John B. Matthews' education ended with the 5th grade. The father, James B. Matthews, is shown as having "consumption" in the 1880 federal census and his death was shortly thereafter. John B. Matthews was probably pretty much on his own almost before reaching his teen years. His obituary, if one could be found, might be interesting!
James Brown Matthews was then married 2nd in McLean County, Illinois on October 7, 1869 to Mary Margaret Buckner, who was born c. January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
Two children are known to have been born to James and Mary. They are;
2. Frank Buckner Matthews, born October __, 1870 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois. Frank was married c. 1899/1900 to Caroline E. Stewart, who was born in Northfield, Minnesota.
Frank and Caroline had the following children;
A. Stewart Matthews, born February 5, 1902 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Stewart is found with the family in the 1910 and 1920 census records.
Stewart is almost certainly the Stewart Matthews, who is found in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Washington, where he is a Purchasing Agent for a lumber mill;
Stewart Mattews Head M 28 Massachusetts
Charlotte Mattews Wife F 24 Washington
Prudence Kennedy Maid F 20 Idaho
Stewart is almost certain the Stewart Matthews who in 1940 is found in Bellevue Election Precinct 1, King County, Washington. He is an Insurance Broker. He was previously in Bellingham, Washington;
Stewart Matthews Head M 38 Massachusetts
Violet J Matthews Wife F 37 Kansas
Stewart Matthews died on October 22, 1981 in Riverside, California. His burial site is not known.
B. James Buckner Matthews, born June 28, 1903 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
At the time of the 1900 census, Frank and Caroline are found in residing at #8 Braemore Road in Newton city Ward 7, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, where he is a Clergyman;
Frank B Matthew Head M Oct 1870 30 Illinois
Caroline E Matthew Wife F Apr 1872 28 Minnesota
Millie Mc Kay Servant F 22 Canada Eng
At the time of the 1910 census, Frank and his family are found residing at 222 Cajohn Street in the city of Redlands, Redlands Township, San Bernardino County, California, where he is Preacher D. D. in a Baptist Church;
Frank B Matthews Head M 39 Minnesota
Caroline Matthews Wife F 35 Minnesota
Stuart Matthews Son M 8 Massachusetts
James B Matthews Son M 6 Massachusetts
On ___________ __, 1917, Caroline E. (Stewart) Matthews died in Redlands, California and her mortal remains were laid in the Hillside Memorial Park in Redlands, San Bernardino County, California. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 29910777.
Shortly after her death Frank took a position as minister of a church in the city of Seattle, Washington. At the time of the 1920 census, Frank and his sons are found in Seattle, King County, Washington;
Frank B Matthews Head M 49 Illinois
Stewart Matthews Son M 18 Massachusetts
James Matthews Son M 16 Massachusetts
In the 1920's Frank was married to Ella Mary ____________, who was born c. 1892/93 in Washington. They were the parents of;
C. Robert Wayne Matthews, born c. May __, 1925 in Seattle, Washington. Robert is very likely the Robert W. Matthews, who was born c. June 1, 1925 and who died in King County, Washington on March 3, 2004.
At the time of the 1930 census, Frank and his family are found renting a home at 2219 Van Buren Street in Corvallis, Benton County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 58 Illinois
Ella Mary Matthews Wife F 37 Washington
Robert Wayne Matthews Son M 4 11/12 Washington
At the time of the 1940 census, Frank and his family reside at 5724 N. Moore Street in the city of Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 69 Illinois
Ella H Matthews Wife F 47 Washington
Robert Matthews Son M 14 Washington
3. Anna Maude Matthews, born September 16, 1872 in or near Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. Anna was married on November 28, 1895 at Carlton, Yamhill County, Oregon to Frederick Stanley Dunn (1872 - 1937).
Anna and Frederick were the parents of two children;
A. Dorothy G. Dunn, born c. 1897/98 in Oregon.
B. Frederick Berrian Dunn, born c. 1900/01 in Oregon.
At the time of the 1920 census, Anna and her family are found in Ward 1 of the city of Eugene, Lane County, Oregon;
Frederick S Dunn Head M 47 Oregon
Anna M Dunn Wife F 47 Oregon
Dorothy G Dunn Daughter F 22 Oregon
F Berrian Dunn Son M 19 Oregon
Anna Maude (Matthews) Dunn died on January 3, 1939 in Lane County, Oregon and her mortal remains were laid in the Rest-Haven Memorial Park in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 66789265.
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Mary are found in Tazewell County,Illinois;
James Matthews M 34 Illinois
Mary Matthews F 24 Illinois
John Matthews M 7 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, James and Mary are found residing in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. They are listed as follows;
J. B. MATTHEWS, born c. 1836 in IL
Mary MATTHEWS, born c. 1844 in IL
Frank MATTHEWS, born c. 1871 in IL
Anna MATTHEWS, born c. 1873 in OR
James' father and brother are living with Mr. I. L. & M. Smith, who is James and Edward's Sister & Brother-in-law, in Forest Grove as well. M. Smith is listed as being born c. 1831 in Ohio. James Matthews is listed as a Widower, so Eliza died sometime before 1880. They are listed as follows;
James MATTHEWS, born c. 1803 in MD
Edward MATTHEWS, born c. 1851 in IL
According to the Pension Card on exhibit on Footnote.com, it appears that Private James B. Mathews died on June 1, 1878 in Forest Grove, Oregon. The Pension Card on Ancestry.com states that his widow was Mary M. Shelton and that she began collecting a Pension on November 21, 1916 in California.
His is actually believed to have died on June 26, 1880 in Forest Grove, Washington Co., Oregon at age 44 and his earthly remains were laid to rest in Forest View Cemetery, Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Jean Edwards had the following to say after photographing his grave for his Find A Grave site. "Baxter, I too was thrilled to find such an old and remarkable grave and person. It is located in a beautiful spot with large trees and a view over a green valley. He must have had quite a story and life. Oregon was a young place then, and there are several Civil War era markers there, which was a surprise."
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews was then married to John W. Shelton. Mary and John known to have had one daughter, Prince V. Shelton. At the time of the 1900 census, Mary and her family are found in Carlton and LaFayette Precincts Carlton and LaFayette towns, Yamhill County, Oregon. Mary is listed as having had three children, all of whom are living;
John V Shelton Head M May 1833 67 Missouri
Mary M Shelton Wife F Jan 1844 56 Illinois
Prince V Shelton Daughter F Sep 1887 13 Oregon
Audrey Waller Niece F Aug 1881 19 Oregon
Walter Helvie Servant M Mar 1878 22 Indiana
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews Shelton died on February 9, 1929 in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. After her death, her body was shipped to Forest Grove, Oregon, where it apparently was laid beside that of James B. Matthews.
by Baxter B. Fite III; Andy Anderson; Gary Arends, whose email address is [email protected] : and Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois.
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Matthews family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Private James B. Matthews and the Matthews family. Baxter would also be interested in seeing more photographs of Private James B. Matthews.)
James Brown Matthews was born on April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois, the son of James Matthews and Elizabeth "Eliza" Bleroe (Brown) Matthews. The elder James Matthews/Mathews was born c. November 27, 1803 in or near Baltimore, Maryland. His birth was recorded in the Saint Peters Protestant Epicopal Church in Baltimore. He is believed to be the son of John Matthews and Martha Grube. The elder James Matthews spent the first 20 years of his life there in the Baltimore area. About 1823/24, James moved west to Ohio, where he settled near Dayton, Ohio. James Matthews was married to Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe Brown on September 25, 1827 in Bethel, Miami County, Ohio, who was born c. 1806/07 in Ohio.
At the time of the 1830 census, the Matthews are believed to have been still residing in Ohio. About 1832/33, the elder James Matthews continued his progress west, moving to Illinois, where they settled in Tazewell County, Illinois. In May of 2014, Carol found that "James Matthews purchased, on 12 Apr 1834, a tract of land from James & Mary McClure. James and Eliza Matthews sold a tract of land, on 24 Jun 1836, to Samuel Judy."
Twelve children, seven girls and five boys, are believed to have been born to James and Eliza, including;
(PROBABLY) 1. Catharine Matthews, born August 12, 1828. Catherine Matthews was married to Elias Duvall on November 9, 1848 in Tazewell County, Illinois. Catherine died on 17 Jan 1849 in Tazewell County, Illinois and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois. See her Find A Grave Memorial #173536231.
2. Margaret Matthews, born June 21, 1831 in Illinois. Margaret was married to Irvin Lucian Smith on January 1, 1849 in Taewell County, Illinois. One daughter is known to have been born to Margaret and Irvin;
A. Mary Eliza (Smith) Hinman (1852-1874).
Margaret (Matthews) Smith died on August 30, 1894 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mountain View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
3. Sarah E. Matthews, born c. 1833 in Illinois; A Sarah E. Matthews was married to James W. Search on July 17, 1856 in Tazewell County, Illinois; James W. Search served in Troop F of the 3rd Illinois Cavalry during the Civil War; James and Sarah are known to have had at least two children, Rosa Bell Search, born c. 1857/58 in Illinois and Jacob M. Search, who was born c. 1862 and who was married on November 11, 1915 in Yuba, California to Alice B. Keene, who was 44 years of age at the time they married. Her parents were John Ware and Harriet E. Cummings. Jacob M. Search died in 1938 and his mortal remains were laid in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Red Bluff, Tehama County, California.
At the time of the 1870 census, James W. and Sarah E. (Matthews) Search are found in Lostant, Hope Township, LaSalle County, Illinois, where he is listed as a Physician and Surgeon;
James Search M 36 Pennsylvania
Sarah Search F 36 Illinois
Rosa Bell Search F 12 Illinois
Jacob Search M 8 Illinois
Julia A Carter F 32 New York
Nina M. Carter F 9
As far as James Search and Sarah Ella Matthews, I think the Rosa Bell Search who married John Archibald in Tazewell Co., IL is probably their daughter. There is a discrepancy on the date of marriage, though, as the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index has January 4, 1875 as the date of marriage. The online Illinois Marriages, 1851-1900 database has March 27, 1873 as the year of marriage—both in Tazewell Co. Not sure which is correct, but would tend to lean toward the 1875 as she would have been about 15 in 1873!
As I indicated earlier, the 1886 Peoria City Directory has Sarah E. Search listed as widowed. I think that is probably correct as, in the 1880 federal census, this family listing is in Peoria , Peoria Co., IL.
John Archibald, 25, carpenter, Scotland , Scotland , England
Bell Archibald, 22, IL, PA, IL
Sarah E. Search, 46 (mother-in-law), IL, MD, IL
At the present time, I've not located John and Bell after the 1880 federal census. There are a John Archibald and Clara Archibald buried in the Walnut Hill Cemetery in Belleville, St. Clair County, Illinois. Could Bell's name been Clara Bell? They died in the 1880's.
I'm suspicious about a Jacob Search who, in 1880, is found in West Omaha, Douglas Co., NE. He is 18 years of age and listed as a "workman." Note is also made that he is "crippled." I've been unable to locate him in 1900 or 1910, but there is a Jacob M. Search who shows up in CA in 1920 and 1930 that well could be the same individual. Married to an Alise B. Keene ( Keene is a married name and not her maiden name). She, has been married previously as a Thomas W. Keene is 17 years of age and residing in the family unit—noted as a step-son. There is also a daughter listed, Fannie A. Search (age 9); however, the 1930 federal census notes she is a "stepdaughter". The family, in 1920, is in Marysville Ward 4, Yuba , CA and in Red Bluff, Tehama , CA in 1930. Jacob M. Search died on May 13, 1938 in Tehama , CA at age 76.
Confusingly, at the time of the 1880 census, a James W. Search is found in Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, where he is a practicing Physician. He is married to a Ella Search, who was born c. 1837/38 in New York. Were Sarah and James W. Search divorced rather than widowed" This Jacob does fit what we know about James and Sarah's son;
Self J W Search M 45 Pennsylvania
Wife Ella Search F 42 New York
Son Jacob Search M 18 Illinois
Son Willie Search M 4 Nebraska
At the time of the 1885 census, James Search is found in Ward 4 of the City of Omaha, Douglas County, Nebraska;
James Search M 51
Wife Ellen Search F 47
Son Wm Search M 9
James W. Search was born on October __, 1835 and died on January 31, 1907 and his mortal remains were laid in the Soldiers And Sailors Cemetery in Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska.
4. James Brown Matthews, born April 18, 1836 in Tazewell County, Illinois; See his biography below.
5. Eliza Matthews, born c. December 16, 1837/39/40 near Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; Eliza was married William Crosley (misspelled CROASY) on February 12, 1857 in Tazewell County, Illinois; About 1872/73, they moved with her father to Forest Grove, Oregon; Eliza and William were the parents of eight children. Eliza (Matthews) Crosley died on July 9, 1899 and her mortal remains were laid in the in Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon; See her Find A Grave site for more information about her and her family.
6. John Matthews, born November 17, 1839 in Illinois. John died on January 12, 1849 at the age of 9y, 1m & 26d and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Township in Tazewell County, Illinois.
7. William R. Matthews, born c. 1841/42 in Tazewell County, Illinois. William is very likely the William Raper Mathews, who is found on the Voter Registration on 30 Aug 1875 in 572 Minna 10, San Francisco, California. At the time of his father's death in 1898, William R. Matthews was residing in Martinez, California.
8. Mary Marinda Matthews, born January 23, 1844 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois; Mary was married to Henry Clay Layten on May 6, 1867 in Tazewell County, Illinois; Henry had served in Co. G of the 86th Illinois during the Civil War; Mary died on August 5, 1902 and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois; See Henry Clay Layten's Find A Grave site for more information about Henry and Mary's life and family.
9. Edward Matthews, born c. January __, 1845/46 in Tazewell County, Illinois. At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, Edward Matthews is found residing with his oldest sister, Margaret, and her family and with his widowed father in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon.
However, at the time of his father's death in 1898, Edward is listed as residing in Mackinaw, Illinois in Tazewell County. However, after his father's death, or perhaps at his father's death, it appears Edward came west to Oregon and decided to stay, at least for a while. At the time of the 1900 census, Edward is believed to be the Edward Matthews, who was born in January of 1846 in Illinois and who lives in the City of Forest Grove, North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts, of Washington County, Oregon. He is single at this time and his father and mother are listed as having been born in Maryland and Ohio. Nothing more is known about Edward at this time, it is not known if he stayed on in Oregon or returned to Illinois. It is not known when he died or where his mortal remains were laid.
10. Infant son Matthews, born on 18__. Died on September 11, 1853 and his mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
11. Julia A. Matthews, born on November 25, 1853 in Illinois. Julia died on May 12, 1868 at the age of 14y, 5m & 17d and her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Cemetery in Mackinaw Twp., Tazewell Co., IL.
12. Charles Matthews, born and died c. 1858. His mortal remains may also lie in the Mackinaw Cemetery.
The Mathews family is found residing in Tazewell County, Illinois at the time of the 1850 census;
James Mathews M 47 Maryland Tanner & Courier
Eliza P Mathews F 44 Ohio
Sarah Mathews F 17 Illinois
James Mathews M 14 Illinois
Eliza Mathews F 10 Illinois
William Mathews M 8 Illinois
Mary Mathews F 6 Illinois
Edward Mathews M 4 Illinois
At the time of the 1860 census, the Matthews family is found in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Mathews M 57 Md
Eliza P Mathews F 54 O
Wm R Mathews M 17 Ill
Mary Mathews F 16 Ill
Edward Mathews M 14 Ill
Julia Mathews F 6 Ill
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Eliza are believed to be found in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois;
James Matthews M 66 Maryland
Eliza Matthews F 63 Ohio
Mary Birkett F 16 Ohio
Elizabeth/Eliza Bleroe (Brown) Matthews died on March 5, 1872 at the age of 66y, 2m & 5d in or near Mackinaw, Iazewell County, Illinois. Her mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
In 1871, the year before Eliza's death, Thomas Lenard Matthews, who was born on October 9, 1814 in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Maryland and who was very likely the elder James Matthews younger brother, died in or near Mackinaw, Illinois. His mortal remains were laid in the Mackinaw Township Cemetery in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, Illinois.
Later in 1872, after his wife's death, James Matthews again continued his migration west, moving with a number of his children to Oregon, where they settled in the Forest Grove area of Washington County, Oregon.
At the time of the 1880 Federal Census, James Matthews is found residing with his oldest daughter, Margaret, and her family in Forest Grove Twp., Washington Co., Oregon;
I. L. Smith, 53, Cabinet Maker (sick - ?? infl.), OH, Nov. Scot, NY
M. Smith, 49, Keeping House, OH, MD, OH
Etta Smith, 21, Teacher in Red Lake , IL , OH, OH
George Smith, 19, Cabinet Maker, IL, OH, OH
Elmer Smith, 18, IL, OH, OH
Willie Smith, 13, IL, OH, OH
Liley Day Smith, 11, IL, OH, OH
Fred Smith, 9, IL, OH, OH
Carrie Smith, 8, IL, OH, OH
Jas Matthews (father-in-law), 77, Tanner & Courier, MD, --, --
Edward Matthews, 29, Farm Laborer, IL, MD, OH
Some of James Matthews later years were spent residing with his daughter, Mrs Eliza Crosley, as well. The elder James Matthews died on October 24, 1898 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon at the age of 94 years, 10 months and 30 days. His mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Someone also set up a site for "Grandfather Matthews" in the Mountain View Memorial Gardens, Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR. No birth or death dates and note made that there is no record in the "Cemetery Records Book". Also, buried in the Forest View cemetery is Margaret Mathews Smith, w/o Irvin Lucian Smith. Birth date of June 21, 1831 and death date of August 30, 1894.
Now to continue with the biography of James Brown Matthews;
James B. Matthews
On August 9, 1862, James B. Mathews volunteered in Marshall County to serve in a company which was being raised in the Henry, Illinois area of Marshall County, by a man by the name of Elias C. Brearly. At the time he volunteered, James gave his residence as Whitefield Township in Marshall County, Illinois.
ILLINOIS CIVIL WAR DETAIL REPORT
Name MATHEWS, JAMES B
Rank PVT Company B Unit 86 IL US INF
Personal Characteristics
Residence WHITEFIELD, MARSHALL CO, IL Age 26 Height 5' 6 1/2 Hair DARK
Eyes BLUE Complexion LIGHT Marital Status MARRIED Occupation FARMER
Nativity IL
Service Record
Joined When AUG 9, 1862 Joined Where MARSHALL CO, IL
Joined By Whom CPT BREASLEY Period 3 YRS
Muster In AUG 27, 1862 Muster In Where PEORIA, IL
Muster In By Whom N/A Muster Out JUN 6, 1865
Muster Out Where WASHINGTON, DC Muster Out By Whom LT SCROGGS
Remarks N/A
A few days later, when Brearly had about 100 volunteers, he led the Marshall County volunteers into Peoria where they went into camp at Camp Lyon, near present day Glen Oak Park. On August 27, 1862, Brearly and 88 of his volunteers were mustered into service as Co. B of the 86th Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Brearly was elected Captain of Co. B.
On September 7, 1862, the men of the 86th Illinois marched out the gates of Camp Lyon, through the streets of Peoria, with much fanfare, and boarded a train bound for Camp Joe Holt, Jeffersonville, Indiana. Three weeks later, the men of the 86th were in the field in Kentucky as part of Col. Daniel McCook's Brigade, in pursuit of Confederate troops. On Oct. 8, 1862, the men of McCook's Brigade were engaged with those troops in the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, the 86th Illinois suffering their first casualties. There would be many more to come. After the Battle of Perryville, the Confederate troops withdrew from Kentucky and the men of McCook's Brigade marched on to Nashville, Tennessee where they would go into winter camp.
During the next two and a half years, Private James B. Matthews served faithfully in Co. B as the men of the 86th served in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina and North Carolina. During this time, James was witness to and a participant in numerous battles and skirmishes, some of the bloodiest fighting in the Western Theatre of the war, including the Battles of Chickamauga, Georgia; Resaca, Georgia; Rome, Georgia, Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia; Peach Tree Creek, Georgia; Jonesboro, Georgia; Averysboro, North Carolina; and Bentonville, North Carolina, to name a few and marched with Sherman to the Sea.
On June 6, 1865, Private James B. Mathews was with the surviving members of the 86th Illinois when they were mustered out of service on June 6, 1865 at Washington, D.C. He then, with the surviving members of Co. B, returned to their homes and families in Marshall County, Illinois.
On March 11, 2011, I got the following email from Andy Anderson. His email address is: oxdrover
"I appreciate the work you're doing in finding the graves of these Civil War soldiers. By now you may have already satisfied yourself that James B. Mathews of Co B, 86th IL Vol Inf, was the James B. Matthews (note the spelling) (18 Apr 1836 - 26 Jun 1880) that Findagrave.com shows is buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. [Looking at the pension card you described on Footnote.com, on my monitor I clearly see "Forest Grove, Oreg." as the place of death, but I can't explain the discrepancy of the death date on the card with the death date on the tombstone.] The pension record shows that James B. Mathews (of B/86) left a widow named Mary M. Shelton. Findagrave.com shows Mary Margaret Buckner was married first to James B. Mathews. This marriage took place 7 Oct 1869 in McLean Co IL, according to the online Illinois Statewide Marriage Index. Secondly Mary married John V. Shelton. Mary was born 1845 and died 1929, and also buried in Forest View Cem, Forest Grove. Her tombstone is found under the name Mary Margaret Shelton. James was married at the time of his entering the Army in 1862. I believe this wife was Susannah M. Matthews. Her marriage to James B. Matthews took place 20 Dec 1860 in Stark Co IL. This county borders Marshall Co IL, where James of Co B/86 enlisted from.
The 1880 census shows James B. Matthews of Washington Co OR was the son of a father born in Maryland ("Md.", not Mississippi, as someone suggested at Findagrave) and mother born in Ohio. The Illinois family matching these criteria in 1850 is the family of James and Eliza Matthews of Tazewell Co IL. James (Sr.) was born in MD and Eliza in Ohio. They had a son James age 14, or born in 1836. Tazewell Co IL is only two counties south of Marshall and Stark Cos, and next door to McLean Co, where James married Mary Buckner in 1869. James and Mary appear in the Tazewell Co 1870 census. James is age 34 and Mary is 24. The census indicates they were married the previous October (which supports their being the same couple as in the marriage record). In their household was a child named John, age 7, presumably by James' first marriage. In 1880 they're in Forest Grove, Washington Co OR. I don't know what became of John; he's not listed with James and Mary in 1880.
Good luck with your project. Have you had any cooperation from the Adjutant General of Illinois? Many years ago they responded to several of my requests for info on my Civil War ancestors' resting places, but they no longer seem to be willing to help as in the past.
Andy Anderson"
As stated above, James B. Matthew was married at the time he entered the service in 1862. James was married to Susannah M. ___________ on December 20, 1860 in Stark County, Illinois. Susan was born c. December __, 1841. One son is believed to have been born to James and Susannah;
1. John Brown Matthews, born c. November __, 1862 in Illinois, possibly in Tazewell County, Illinois. John was never married. John Brown Matthews died on January 4, 1948 in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Susan M. (____________) Matthews died on February 23, 1866. The February 24, 1866 edition of the Marshall County Telegraph had the following obituary in it's February 24, 1866 edition;
Mrs. Susan M. Matthews
Died in Henry, February 23, after a protracted illness, Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews. Funeral service will be held at the M. E. church by Rev. A. C. Higgins at 2 o'clock this afternoon."
The March 6, 1866 edition had the following;
"In Henry, February 22, 1866, of fever, Mrs. Susan M., wife of J. B. Matthews, age 24 years and 2 months. The deceased was born in Ohio. Removed to this vicinity when but a little girl. She was made the happy subject of saving grace and united with the old school Presbyterian church in the fall of 1858. In the fall of 1859, she united with the M. E. Church. She was married to her now bereaved husband, December 20, 1860. She leaves a husband, a little boy 3 years of age and many relatives and friends to mourn her early death. ........ Her painful illness of six weeks duration was born with surprising patience. For a time she was much depressed prior to her death. God gave her songs in the night and she awoke one morning fully realizing Jesus breaks the power of cancelled sin......... For this time she enjoyed a heavenly calm till she sweetly fell asleep in hope of a blissful immortality."
James Brown Matthews was married 2nd to Mary Margaret Buckner on October 7, 1869 in McLean Co., Illinois. Mary was born on January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
At the time of the 1870 census;
James Brown Matthews
Mary M. Matthews
John Brown Matthews M 7
In 1880, John Brown Matthews is an apprentice to a printer by the name of Henry B. Luce (whose occupation is listed as a publisher). He is listed in their household in Hillsboro, Washington Co., OR.
At the time of the 1900 census, John B. Mathews is found boarding in North Forest Grove and South Forest Grove Precincts Forest Grove city, Washington County, Oregon;
Walter Sears Head M 28 Oregon
Laura B Sears Wife F 28 Oregon
John B Mathews Boarder M 38 Illinois
In the 1920 and 1930 census records, John B. Mathews is found boarding with other families in Washington County, Oregon. I found John Brown Matthews residing with the Rufus H. Munkers family in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR in 1910. He is still single. In 1940, he is still single --still residing in Forest Grove, Washington Co., OR and "lodging" with the Fred W. Schafer family . Occupation listed as painter contractor. Highest grade completed was 5th grade. His tombstone in the Forest Grove Cemetery shows birth year as 1860 which I do not believe is correct. Census records place year of birth closer to 1863-1864. His date of death appears as January 4, 1948.
John Brown Matthews' mortal remains were laid in the Forest View Cemetery. See his Find A Grave Memorial# 27742581.
Since the birth of the two children to Mary Margaret appear in both Illinois and Oregon, the trek to Oregon must have taken place about 1872 which may also explain why John B. Matthews' education ended with the 5th grade. The father, James B. Matthews, is shown as having "consumption" in the 1880 federal census and his death was shortly thereafter. John B. Matthews was probably pretty much on his own almost before reaching his teen years. His obituary, if one could be found, might be interesting!
James Brown Matthews was then married 2nd in McLean County, Illinois on October 7, 1869 to Mary Margaret Buckner, who was born c. January 26, 1845 in Illinois, the daughter of Henry Buckner and Nancy (McClure) Buckner.
Two children are known to have been born to James and Mary. They are;
2. Frank Buckner Matthews, born October __, 1870 in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, Illinois. Frank was married c. 1899/1900 to Caroline E. Stewart, who was born in Northfield, Minnesota.
Frank and Caroline had the following children;
A. Stewart Matthews, born February 5, 1902 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Stewart is found with the family in the 1910 and 1920 census records.
Stewart is almost certainly the Stewart Matthews, who is found in Bellingham, Whatcom County, Washington, where he is a Purchasing Agent for a lumber mill;
Stewart Mattews Head M 28 Massachusetts
Charlotte Mattews Wife F 24 Washington
Prudence Kennedy Maid F 20 Idaho
Stewart is almost certain the Stewart Matthews who in 1940 is found in Bellevue Election Precinct 1, King County, Washington. He is an Insurance Broker. He was previously in Bellingham, Washington;
Stewart Matthews Head M 38 Massachusetts
Violet J Matthews Wife F 37 Kansas
Stewart Matthews died on October 22, 1981 in Riverside, California. His burial site is not known.
B. James Buckner Matthews, born June 28, 1903 in Newton, Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
At the time of the 1900 census, Frank and Caroline are found in residing at #8 Braemore Road in Newton city Ward 7, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, where he is a Clergyman;
Frank B Matthew Head M Oct 1870 30 Illinois
Caroline E Matthew Wife F Apr 1872 28 Minnesota
Millie Mc Kay Servant F 22 Canada Eng
At the time of the 1910 census, Frank and his family are found residing at 222 Cajohn Street in the city of Redlands, Redlands Township, San Bernardino County, California, where he is Preacher D. D. in a Baptist Church;
Frank B Matthews Head M 39 Minnesota
Caroline Matthews Wife F 35 Minnesota
Stuart Matthews Son M 8 Massachusetts
James B Matthews Son M 6 Massachusetts
On ___________ __, 1917, Caroline E. (Stewart) Matthews died in Redlands, California and her mortal remains were laid in the Hillside Memorial Park in Redlands, San Bernardino County, California. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 29910777.
Shortly after her death Frank took a position as minister of a church in the city of Seattle, Washington. At the time of the 1920 census, Frank and his sons are found in Seattle, King County, Washington;
Frank B Matthews Head M 49 Illinois
Stewart Matthews Son M 18 Massachusetts
James Matthews Son M 16 Massachusetts
In the 1920's Frank was married to Ella Mary ____________, who was born c. 1892/93 in Washington. They were the parents of;
C. Robert Wayne Matthews, born c. May __, 1925 in Seattle, Washington. Robert is very likely the Robert W. Matthews, who was born c. June 1, 1925 and who died in King County, Washington on March 3, 2004.
At the time of the 1930 census, Frank and his family are found renting a home at 2219 Van Buren Street in Corvallis, Benton County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 58 Illinois
Ella Mary Matthews Wife F 37 Washington
Robert Wayne Matthews Son M 4 11/12 Washington
At the time of the 1940 census, Frank and his family reside at 5724 N. Moore Street in the city of Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon, where he is a Baptist Minister;
Frank B Matthews Head M 69 Illinois
Ella H Matthews Wife F 47 Washington
Robert Matthews Son M 14 Washington
3. Anna Maude Matthews, born September 16, 1872 in or near Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. Anna was married on November 28, 1895 at Carlton, Yamhill County, Oregon to Frederick Stanley Dunn (1872 - 1937).
Anna and Frederick were the parents of two children;
A. Dorothy G. Dunn, born c. 1897/98 in Oregon.
B. Frederick Berrian Dunn, born c. 1900/01 in Oregon.
At the time of the 1920 census, Anna and her family are found in Ward 1 of the city of Eugene, Lane County, Oregon;
Frederick S Dunn Head M 47 Oregon
Anna M Dunn Wife F 47 Oregon
Dorothy G Dunn Daughter F 22 Oregon
F Berrian Dunn Son M 19 Oregon
Anna Maude (Matthews) Dunn died on January 3, 1939 in Lane County, Oregon and her mortal remains were laid in the Rest-Haven Memorial Park in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. See her Find A Grave Memorial# 66789265.
At the time of the 1870 census, James and Mary are found in Tazewell County,Illinois;
James Matthews M 34 Illinois
Mary Matthews F 24 Illinois
John Matthews M 7 Illinois
At the time of the 1880 census, James and Mary are found residing in Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon. They are listed as follows;
J. B. MATTHEWS, born c. 1836 in IL
Mary MATTHEWS, born c. 1844 in IL
Frank MATTHEWS, born c. 1871 in IL
Anna MATTHEWS, born c. 1873 in OR
James' father and brother are living with Mr. I. L. & M. Smith, who is James and Edward's Sister & Brother-in-law, in Forest Grove as well. M. Smith is listed as being born c. 1831 in Ohio. James Matthews is listed as a Widower, so Eliza died sometime before 1880. They are listed as follows;
James MATTHEWS, born c. 1803 in MD
Edward MATTHEWS, born c. 1851 in IL
According to the Pension Card on exhibit on Footnote.com, it appears that Private James B. Mathews died on June 1, 1878 in Forest Grove, Oregon. The Pension Card on Ancestry.com states that his widow was Mary M. Shelton and that she began collecting a Pension on November 21, 1916 in California.
His is actually believed to have died on June 26, 1880 in Forest Grove, Washington Co., Oregon at age 44 and his earthly remains were laid to rest in Forest View Cemetery, Forest Grove, Washington County, Oregon.
Jean Edwards had the following to say after photographing his grave for his Find A Grave site. "Baxter, I too was thrilled to find such an old and remarkable grave and person. It is located in a beautiful spot with large trees and a view over a green valley. He must have had quite a story and life. Oregon was a young place then, and there are several Civil War era markers there, which was a surprise."
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews was then married to John W. Shelton. Mary and John known to have had one daughter, Prince V. Shelton. At the time of the 1900 census, Mary and her family are found in Carlton and LaFayette Precincts Carlton and LaFayette towns, Yamhill County, Oregon. Mary is listed as having had three children, all of whom are living;
John V Shelton Head M May 1833 67 Missouri
Mary M Shelton Wife F Jan 1844 56 Illinois
Prince V Shelton Daughter F Sep 1887 13 Oregon
Audrey Waller Niece F Aug 1881 19 Oregon
Walter Helvie Servant M Mar 1878 22 Indiana
Mary Margaret (Buckner) Matthews Shelton died on February 9, 1929 in Eugene, Lane County, Oregon. After her death, her body was shipped to Forest Grove, Oregon, where it apparently was laid beside that of James B. Matthews.
by Baxter B. Fite III; Andy Anderson; Gary Arends, whose email address is [email protected] : and Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois.
(Baxter would enjoy hearing from anyone, especially descendants of the Matthews family, who might be able to add to the biographical material that we have on Private James B. Matthews and the Matthews family. Baxter would also be interested in seeing more photographs of Private James B. Matthews.)
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