Noah's story is a tangled web, woven during his sixty-seven years on this earth. His ending was not a happy one. It is hoped that his beginning was.
Noah was the first child born to Reuben Steward Ackles and Amanda Ellen Asper, who wed on New Years Eve, 31 Dec 1881 in Butler Co., Ohio. Noah would eventually be joined by five sisters—Alta Pearl, Mary Alice, Frances May, Myrtle Irene and Isabel "Belle" M.
With no 1890 Census still around, the 1900 Census provides us with our first glimpse of the family, living in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Reuben, 43, was doing farm labor. Amanda, 43, reported that she had had six children and that all had survived to that census. Home with their parents were Mary, 15; Frances, 12; Mertie, 8; Pearl, 7; and Belle, 4. Also living with the family was 40-year-old Martin Asper, Amanda's widowed brother, and Martin's son Carl, 9. Martin was also doing farm labor.
17-year-old Noah was not listed with his family, and I couldn't find him elsewhere, but he couldn't have been too far away as he got married four months later on the family's farm, wedding first wife Valerie Sicily Dodd (nee Kemp) on 21 Oct 1900. At 23, Valerie was five years older than Noah and had previously married John Frank Dodd on (or shortly after) 1 Apr 1893. Frank and Valerie had two children together—Ethel May, born on 7 Aug 1893; and Chester Arthur, born on 31 Jul 1895.
The same week Valerie and Frank's divorce was granted in Oct 1900, Noah and Valerie got a marriage license. (From: Marshall County Independent – Fri 26 Oct 1900 p.5) "A Country Wedding. Mr. Noah D. Ackles and Mrs. Volene [sic] Dodd, both residents of Marshall county, were united in marriage by the Rev. R.J. Parrett, of the U.B. church, of this city, Sunday at 12 p.m., at the home of the groom's father about two and one-half miles south of Plymouth. Immediately after the marriage ceremony the guests present retired to the dining room, where a sumptuous repast was served."
Noah and Valerie had three children together—Thelma Alberta, born on 28 Jan 1905; Irma Bernice, born on 27 Jul 1907; and Carmen Virginia, born on 13 Jul 1914.
Noah was a brick mason. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 14 Dec 1905 p. 5) "J.H. Willey has sold one of his cement block machines to Noah Ackles, who will go into the manufacture of blocks during the winter for building houses. Cement blocks seem to have come to stay and it is probable that before many years most new houses will be built of that material." So true.
It seems that Noah made a quick flip of some property in the fall of 1909. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 30 Sep 1909 p. 5) "Corse and Glass, two hustling young men are now proprietors of the River Bank Restaurant. They purchased it of Noah Ackles Tuesday and have taken possession." (From same: Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 1) "…this morning the River Side Restaurant was gutted by fire. This restaurant was owned by Bernard Corse and Earl Glass, they having purchased it a week ago from Noah Ackles who had purchased it from Kelckner two weeks before selling to Glass and Corse. The fire was caused by the explosion of a gasoline stove at six o'clock in the morning and in five minutes the inside of the restaurant was a mass of flames…" Yikes!
It seems that the Ackles "got out of Dodge" just in the nick of time. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 5) "Noah Ackles and family have moved to Kokomo." Kokomo, Indiana is about 65 miles south of the family's previous home in Plymouth.
The 1910 Census provided a nice snapshot of the family. Not surprisingly, they were living in Kokomo, Howard Co., IN. Also not surprisingly, Noah Ackles, 29, was earning a living as a brick mason. Valerie, 31, reported that she had had four children, all of them still living. With them were daughters Thelma, 5, and Irma, 2. Valerie's two older children—Ethel, 16; and Chester, 14—were living about 88 miles to the north in South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana with their father Frank Dodd, grandmother Rebecca Dodd, and their uncle Stephen Dodd.
By the time Noah and Valerie's daughter Carmen joined the family on 13 Jul 1914, the family had left Kokomo and were in South Bend.
Sadly, a year after Carmen's birth, the family lost wife and mother Valerie on 22 Sep 1915, aged 38, claimed by cervical cancer. So very sad.
With three young children in the balance, Noah quickly remarried, wedding Edna K. Casselman (nee Viall) on 25 Oct 1915 in Cassopolis, Cass Co., Michigan. Edna had previously married Cortlin S. Casselman on 18 Dec 1900 and they had two children together--Irene Thelma and Cortlin S. Jr. After Edna and Cortlin divorced, the two children stayed with their father.
It seems that more bad luck managed to find its way to Noah's door. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 4 Jun 1917 p. 5) "TWO CARS STOLEN. South Bend and Elkhart Automobiles Are Taken Sunday. Two stolen automobiles were reported to the police Sunday, one being taken from Elkhart while the other machine was stolen from this city. The Elkhart police wired the South Bend force to watch for a Ford, five passenger car, with license plates No. M – 73. Noah Ackles, East Ewing avenue, reported that his Ford machine was stolen Sunday about 3:30 p.m. from in front of the Auditorium theater. The license plates on this car were No. B-7509." Double yikes!!
On his 12 Sep 1918 World War I registration, Noah Delbert Ackles, 40, reported that he was living at 904 E. Donald St. in South Bend, working as a self-employed brick layer. The clerk determined that he was a medium height and build, with brown hair and eyes. Noted as his "closest relative" was wife Edna Ackles.
As bad luck would have it, Edna would not be Noah's wife for much longer. (From: South Bend News-Times – Sun 14 Apr 1918 p. 4) "ASKS DIVORCE. Edna K. Ackles has entered suit in the circuit court for divorce against Noah D. Ackles, charging that he made threats against her life, called her vile names and otherwise abused her. She asks for $2,000 alimony. The couple was married Oct. 25, 1915, and separated this month." Noah had his own side of the story. (From: The South Bend Tribune - Fri 7 Mar 1919 p. 5) ACKLES ASKS DIVORCE. Claims Wife is Quarrelsome and is Fault Finder. Noah B. Ackles filed suit in the superior court this morning for a divorce from wife, Edna K. Ackles, charging her with cruel and inhuman treatment in that she was quarrelsome and always finding fault with anything that he did. He further stated that she misused and punished his children, by a former wife, without cause."
When the 1920 Census came due, it caught up with Noah at 1318 Clover St. in South Bend. Noah, 41, was noted as a contractor. Daughters Thelma, 14 and working in a watch factory, and Carmen, 6, were with him. It is unclear where 13-year-old daughter Irma was. Also living with the family was Rena Belle Fitterling (nee Asbury), 31, and her two sons, 14-year-old Cecil and 10-year-old Homer. They were noted as Noah's wife and step-sons. There were also four roomers living in the home.
As for Rena, she had previously married Cecil and Homer's father John Fitterling on 23 Dec 1903 in Johnson Co., Missouri. Though noted as Noah's wife in 1920, their marriage record notes the marriage on 13 Mar 1924 in Berrien Co., Michigan.
It wouldn't be long before there was trouble in paradise. (From: The South Bend Tribune – 13 May 1924 p. 13) "…In another complaint filed in the same court, Rena B. Ackles asks for a divorce from Noah D. Ackles, charging cruel and inhuman treatment. They separated in May, 1924. Mrs. Ackles lives at 1318 Clover street."
Noah quickly moved on, wedding fourth-wife Katherine Larue Mathews (nee French) on 26 Mar 1927 in Lake Co., Indiana. It was a third marriage for Larue. In 1914 in Champaign, Illinois, she first married Fred E. Obrien, with whom she had a son named Lawrence Fletcher, born on 30 Apr 1915. Larue and Fred divorced and she next married Forest Temple Mathews on 21 Sep 1920 in Goshen, Indiana. They welcomed son Alfred Thomas Mathews on 7 Aug 1923. On son Alfred's birth certificate, he is noted as Larue's third child and that only two of Larue's children were living, so Larue had a second child with one of her two former husbands. Forest and Larue also divorced.
Noah and Larue would welcome three sons of their own—twins Ronald Delbert and Donald James on 14 Jan 1928, and son Henry Earl on 4 Oct 1931.
There were most certainly some fun times. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 8 Jul 1929 p. 15) "…This is the last week for receiving entries for the third annual Tribune Playland baby parade to be held in Playland park…To date about 100 children have been entered and every indication points to a very successful affair. The latest entries are the following: … Ronald and Donald Ackles, twins, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1607 Marine street, born Jan. 14, 1928 in South Bend, … Ronald and Donald are the second pair of twins to be entered in the parade. Alfred Ackles, also a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born Aug. 7, 1923, in Hammond, Ind ... Carmine [sic] Virginia Ackles, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born in South Bend July 13, 1914 …"
Noah and Larue's blended family appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 374 Sibley St. in Hammond, Lake Co., Indiana. Noah, 48, was still working as a mason contractor. Larue, 33, was keeping house, tending to her son Alfred Matthews, 6, and the twins, Ronald and Donald, 2. Also there was a lodger. The following year, son Henry Earl joined the family on 4 Oct 1931.
The year 1934 brought a horrific loss with the suicide of Noah's daughter Irma Bernice McGirr on 6 September due to phenol / carbolic acid poisoning. She was only 27.
It seems that Noah and Larue's twins had similar inclinations. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Sun 23 Aug 1936 p. 8) "After the fight is over, the crowd probably will be unable to tell which of these young boxers [there was a picture of Donald and Ronald] is the winner as they resemble each other so closely. The twins, Donald (left) and Ronald, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1123 West Laporte street, Plymouth, Ind., will give a four-round boxing exhibit at the National Twins' association reunion next Sunday in Fort Wayne, Ind. They have been training as boxers under Lorie Powell, Plymouth hardware dealer, since they were five years old and have given exhibition bouts in a number of places in this vicinity since last June. The twins, aged eight, attend St. Michael's school in Plymouth. Until five years ago they resided in South Bend."
The 1940 Census placed the Ackles family at 910 W. Laporte St. in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Noah Ackles, 61, was still working as a mason. Larue, 42 was working as a seam sealer in an auto radiator factory, likely McCords. There were still four children at home—Alfred, 16, Ronald and Donald, 12, and Henry, 8.
To drum up business, Noah placed ads in the local newspaper—"MASON contractor. Laying brick and stone of all kind. Cement block foundations. Fireplaces. No cement work. Bert Ackles, 1225 E. Miner St."
The attack on Pearl Harbor just before Christmas in 1941, dragged the U.S. into World War II and Noah and Larue's boys were called to action. First to go was son Alfred, using Ackles as his surname rather than Mathews. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 6 Mar 1944 p. 13) "A/c Alfred T. Ackles has been transferred from Keesler field, Biloxi, Miss., to Mississippi State college at Starkville, according to word received here by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, of 1006 South Jackson street. Prior to his induction into the air corps Cadet Ackles was a member of the South Bend Junior Symphony orchestra in which he played as a drummer. He is a member of the school dance band at Mississippi State and also played as a member of the field band while at Keesler field."
The twins displayed their solidarity and both joined the Army. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 3 Mar 1944 p. 27) "…a set of 18-year-old twins, have been accepted by the army…The twins are Ronald Delbert Ackles and Donald James Ackles, of 1006 Jackson street. Both youths received their final examinations at Indianapolis at the same time. Ronald requested immediate induction, local board clerks stated, but Donald chose to await his call. Donald, however, returned to Indianapolis two days later and also requested immediate induction so he could join his brother."
There was updated information about Noah and Larue's boys a month later. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Wed 5 Apr 1944 p. 21) "Private Roland P. Ackles and his brother, Private Donald J. Ackles, have returned to Camp Atterbury, Ind., after visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1006 South Jackson street…Another son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, Aviation Cadet Alfred T. Ackles is stationed at the Mississippi state college at Starkville and a fourth son, Sergt. Lawrence F. O'Brien, is with a railroad division in India."
With just 13-year-old son Henry still at home, trouble was brewing. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 13 Apr 1945 p. 17) "Divorce Cases Filed. ACKLES—LaRue Ackles, 917 East Fourth street, Mishawaka, against Noah Delbert Ackles; married March 26, 1924, separated March 18, 1945; charges cruelty and asks custody of one child; superior court No. 2."
On his 22 Mar 1943, Noah Delbert Ackles, 60, reported an address at 1717 Anderson in South Bend. He was no longer self-employed, but rather working for Bendix. He measured in at 5' 8" tall, weighed in at 137 lbs., and his eyes were noted as hazel, his hair as gray. In the notes section, the clerk wrote "Registrant claims that he thought he was too old to register." The contact person on the record was son Ronald Ackles.
Tragically for all concerned, on 26 Jan 1950, Noah purposefully ingested tincture of iodine and died at age 67. His ex-wife Larue was the informant on his death certificate. After his death, Larue relocated out west, got a job as a registered nurse and eventually married fourth-husband Robert Poinier. She died on April Fools Day, 1 Apr 1973 at age 76. Of interest is the mention of a daughter-in-law—Mrs. Raymonde O. Ackles. Ahhh…the mysteries.
And though Noah was clearly not lucky in love, he was father to six children and four step-children who would keep him in their memories.
Noah was the first child born to Reuben Steward Ackles and Amanda Ellen Asper, who wed on New Years Eve, 31 Dec 1881 in Butler Co., Ohio. Noah would eventually be joined by five sisters—Alta Pearl, Mary Alice, Frances May, Myrtle Irene and Isabel "Belle" M.
With no 1890 Census still around, the 1900 Census provides us with our first glimpse of the family, living in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Reuben, 43, was doing farm labor. Amanda, 43, reported that she had had six children and that all had survived to that census. Home with their parents were Mary, 15; Frances, 12; Mertie, 8; Pearl, 7; and Belle, 4. Also living with the family was 40-year-old Martin Asper, Amanda's widowed brother, and Martin's son Carl, 9. Martin was also doing farm labor.
17-year-old Noah was not listed with his family, and I couldn't find him elsewhere, but he couldn't have been too far away as he got married four months later on the family's farm, wedding first wife Valerie Sicily Dodd (nee Kemp) on 21 Oct 1900. At 23, Valerie was five years older than Noah and had previously married John Frank Dodd on (or shortly after) 1 Apr 1893. Frank and Valerie had two children together—Ethel May, born on 7 Aug 1893; and Chester Arthur, born on 31 Jul 1895.
The same week Valerie and Frank's divorce was granted in Oct 1900, Noah and Valerie got a marriage license. (From: Marshall County Independent – Fri 26 Oct 1900 p.5) "A Country Wedding. Mr. Noah D. Ackles and Mrs. Volene [sic] Dodd, both residents of Marshall county, were united in marriage by the Rev. R.J. Parrett, of the U.B. church, of this city, Sunday at 12 p.m., at the home of the groom's father about two and one-half miles south of Plymouth. Immediately after the marriage ceremony the guests present retired to the dining room, where a sumptuous repast was served."
Noah and Valerie had three children together—Thelma Alberta, born on 28 Jan 1905; Irma Bernice, born on 27 Jul 1907; and Carmen Virginia, born on 13 Jul 1914.
Noah was a brick mason. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 14 Dec 1905 p. 5) "J.H. Willey has sold one of his cement block machines to Noah Ackles, who will go into the manufacture of blocks during the winter for building houses. Cement blocks seem to have come to stay and it is probable that before many years most new houses will be built of that material." So true.
It seems that Noah made a quick flip of some property in the fall of 1909. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 30 Sep 1909 p. 5) "Corse and Glass, two hustling young men are now proprietors of the River Bank Restaurant. They purchased it of Noah Ackles Tuesday and have taken possession." (From same: Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 1) "…this morning the River Side Restaurant was gutted by fire. This restaurant was owned by Bernard Corse and Earl Glass, they having purchased it a week ago from Noah Ackles who had purchased it from Kelckner two weeks before selling to Glass and Corse. The fire was caused by the explosion of a gasoline stove at six o'clock in the morning and in five minutes the inside of the restaurant was a mass of flames…" Yikes!
It seems that the Ackles "got out of Dodge" just in the nick of time. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 5) "Noah Ackles and family have moved to Kokomo." Kokomo, Indiana is about 65 miles south of the family's previous home in Plymouth.
The 1910 Census provided a nice snapshot of the family. Not surprisingly, they were living in Kokomo, Howard Co., IN. Also not surprisingly, Noah Ackles, 29, was earning a living as a brick mason. Valerie, 31, reported that she had had four children, all of them still living. With them were daughters Thelma, 5, and Irma, 2. Valerie's two older children—Ethel, 16; and Chester, 14—were living about 88 miles to the north in South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana with their father Frank Dodd, grandmother Rebecca Dodd, and their uncle Stephen Dodd.
By the time Noah and Valerie's daughter Carmen joined the family on 13 Jul 1914, the family had left Kokomo and were in South Bend.
Sadly, a year after Carmen's birth, the family lost wife and mother Valerie on 22 Sep 1915, aged 38, claimed by cervical cancer. So very sad.
With three young children in the balance, Noah quickly remarried, wedding Edna K. Casselman (nee Viall) on 25 Oct 1915 in Cassopolis, Cass Co., Michigan. Edna had previously married Cortlin S. Casselman on 18 Dec 1900 and they had two children together--Irene Thelma and Cortlin S. Jr. After Edna and Cortlin divorced, the two children stayed with their father.
It seems that more bad luck managed to find its way to Noah's door. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 4 Jun 1917 p. 5) "TWO CARS STOLEN. South Bend and Elkhart Automobiles Are Taken Sunday. Two stolen automobiles were reported to the police Sunday, one being taken from Elkhart while the other machine was stolen from this city. The Elkhart police wired the South Bend force to watch for a Ford, five passenger car, with license plates No. M – 73. Noah Ackles, East Ewing avenue, reported that his Ford machine was stolen Sunday about 3:30 p.m. from in front of the Auditorium theater. The license plates on this car were No. B-7509." Double yikes!!
On his 12 Sep 1918 World War I registration, Noah Delbert Ackles, 40, reported that he was living at 904 E. Donald St. in South Bend, working as a self-employed brick layer. The clerk determined that he was a medium height and build, with brown hair and eyes. Noted as his "closest relative" was wife Edna Ackles.
As bad luck would have it, Edna would not be Noah's wife for much longer. (From: South Bend News-Times – Sun 14 Apr 1918 p. 4) "ASKS DIVORCE. Edna K. Ackles has entered suit in the circuit court for divorce against Noah D. Ackles, charging that he made threats against her life, called her vile names and otherwise abused her. She asks for $2,000 alimony. The couple was married Oct. 25, 1915, and separated this month." Noah had his own side of the story. (From: The South Bend Tribune - Fri 7 Mar 1919 p. 5) ACKLES ASKS DIVORCE. Claims Wife is Quarrelsome and is Fault Finder. Noah B. Ackles filed suit in the superior court this morning for a divorce from wife, Edna K. Ackles, charging her with cruel and inhuman treatment in that she was quarrelsome and always finding fault with anything that he did. He further stated that she misused and punished his children, by a former wife, without cause."
When the 1920 Census came due, it caught up with Noah at 1318 Clover St. in South Bend. Noah, 41, was noted as a contractor. Daughters Thelma, 14 and working in a watch factory, and Carmen, 6, were with him. It is unclear where 13-year-old daughter Irma was. Also living with the family was Rena Belle Fitterling (nee Asbury), 31, and her two sons, 14-year-old Cecil and 10-year-old Homer. They were noted as Noah's wife and step-sons. There were also four roomers living in the home.
As for Rena, she had previously married Cecil and Homer's father John Fitterling on 23 Dec 1903 in Johnson Co., Missouri. Though noted as Noah's wife in 1920, their marriage record notes the marriage on 13 Mar 1924 in Berrien Co., Michigan.
It wouldn't be long before there was trouble in paradise. (From: The South Bend Tribune – 13 May 1924 p. 13) "…In another complaint filed in the same court, Rena B. Ackles asks for a divorce from Noah D. Ackles, charging cruel and inhuman treatment. They separated in May, 1924. Mrs. Ackles lives at 1318 Clover street."
Noah quickly moved on, wedding fourth-wife Katherine Larue Mathews (nee French) on 26 Mar 1927 in Lake Co., Indiana. It was a third marriage for Larue. In 1914 in Champaign, Illinois, she first married Fred E. Obrien, with whom she had a son named Lawrence Fletcher, born on 30 Apr 1915. Larue and Fred divorced and she next married Forest Temple Mathews on 21 Sep 1920 in Goshen, Indiana. They welcomed son Alfred Thomas Mathews on 7 Aug 1923. On son Alfred's birth certificate, he is noted as Larue's third child and that only two of Larue's children were living, so Larue had a second child with one of her two former husbands. Forest and Larue also divorced.
Noah and Larue would welcome three sons of their own—twins Ronald Delbert and Donald James on 14 Jan 1928, and son Henry Earl on 4 Oct 1931.
There were most certainly some fun times. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 8 Jul 1929 p. 15) "…This is the last week for receiving entries for the third annual Tribune Playland baby parade to be held in Playland park…To date about 100 children have been entered and every indication points to a very successful affair. The latest entries are the following: … Ronald and Donald Ackles, twins, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1607 Marine street, born Jan. 14, 1928 in South Bend, … Ronald and Donald are the second pair of twins to be entered in the parade. Alfred Ackles, also a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born Aug. 7, 1923, in Hammond, Ind ... Carmine [sic] Virginia Ackles, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born in South Bend July 13, 1914 …"
Noah and Larue's blended family appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 374 Sibley St. in Hammond, Lake Co., Indiana. Noah, 48, was still working as a mason contractor. Larue, 33, was keeping house, tending to her son Alfred Matthews, 6, and the twins, Ronald and Donald, 2. Also there was a lodger. The following year, son Henry Earl joined the family on 4 Oct 1931.
The year 1934 brought a horrific loss with the suicide of Noah's daughter Irma Bernice McGirr on 6 September due to phenol / carbolic acid poisoning. She was only 27.
It seems that Noah and Larue's twins had similar inclinations. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Sun 23 Aug 1936 p. 8) "After the fight is over, the crowd probably will be unable to tell which of these young boxers [there was a picture of Donald and Ronald] is the winner as they resemble each other so closely. The twins, Donald (left) and Ronald, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1123 West Laporte street, Plymouth, Ind., will give a four-round boxing exhibit at the National Twins' association reunion next Sunday in Fort Wayne, Ind. They have been training as boxers under Lorie Powell, Plymouth hardware dealer, since they were five years old and have given exhibition bouts in a number of places in this vicinity since last June. The twins, aged eight, attend St. Michael's school in Plymouth. Until five years ago they resided in South Bend."
The 1940 Census placed the Ackles family at 910 W. Laporte St. in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Noah Ackles, 61, was still working as a mason. Larue, 42 was working as a seam sealer in an auto radiator factory, likely McCords. There were still four children at home—Alfred, 16, Ronald and Donald, 12, and Henry, 8.
To drum up business, Noah placed ads in the local newspaper—"MASON contractor. Laying brick and stone of all kind. Cement block foundations. Fireplaces. No cement work. Bert Ackles, 1225 E. Miner St."
The attack on Pearl Harbor just before Christmas in 1941, dragged the U.S. into World War II and Noah and Larue's boys were called to action. First to go was son Alfred, using Ackles as his surname rather than Mathews. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 6 Mar 1944 p. 13) "A/c Alfred T. Ackles has been transferred from Keesler field, Biloxi, Miss., to Mississippi State college at Starkville, according to word received here by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, of 1006 South Jackson street. Prior to his induction into the air corps Cadet Ackles was a member of the South Bend Junior Symphony orchestra in which he played as a drummer. He is a member of the school dance band at Mississippi State and also played as a member of the field band while at Keesler field."
The twins displayed their solidarity and both joined the Army. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 3 Mar 1944 p. 27) "…a set of 18-year-old twins, have been accepted by the army…The twins are Ronald Delbert Ackles and Donald James Ackles, of 1006 Jackson street. Both youths received their final examinations at Indianapolis at the same time. Ronald requested immediate induction, local board clerks stated, but Donald chose to await his call. Donald, however, returned to Indianapolis two days later and also requested immediate induction so he could join his brother."
There was updated information about Noah and Larue's boys a month later. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Wed 5 Apr 1944 p. 21) "Private Roland P. Ackles and his brother, Private Donald J. Ackles, have returned to Camp Atterbury, Ind., after visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1006 South Jackson street…Another son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, Aviation Cadet Alfred T. Ackles is stationed at the Mississippi state college at Starkville and a fourth son, Sergt. Lawrence F. O'Brien, is with a railroad division in India."
With just 13-year-old son Henry still at home, trouble was brewing. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 13 Apr 1945 p. 17) "Divorce Cases Filed. ACKLES—LaRue Ackles, 917 East Fourth street, Mishawaka, against Noah Delbert Ackles; married March 26, 1924, separated March 18, 1945; charges cruelty and asks custody of one child; superior court No. 2."
On his 22 Mar 1943, Noah Delbert Ackles, 60, reported an address at 1717 Anderson in South Bend. He was no longer self-employed, but rather working for Bendix. He measured in at 5' 8" tall, weighed in at 137 lbs., and his eyes were noted as hazel, his hair as gray. In the notes section, the clerk wrote "Registrant claims that he thought he was too old to register." The contact person on the record was son Ronald Ackles.
Tragically for all concerned, on 26 Jan 1950, Noah purposefully ingested tincture of iodine and died at age 67. His ex-wife Larue was the informant on his death certificate. After his death, Larue relocated out west, got a job as a registered nurse and eventually married fourth-husband Robert Poinier. She died on April Fools Day, 1 Apr 1973 at age 76. Of interest is the mention of a daughter-in-law—Mrs. Raymonde O. Ackles. Ahhh…the mysteries.
And though Noah was clearly not lucky in love, he was father to six children and four step-children who would keep him in their memories.
Noah's story is a tangled web, woven during his sixty-seven years on this earth. His ending was not a happy one. It is hoped that his beginning was.
Noah was the first child born to Reuben Steward Ackles and Amanda Ellen Asper, who wed on New Years Eve, 31 Dec 1881 in Butler Co., Ohio. Noah would eventually be joined by five sisters—Alta Pearl, Mary Alice, Frances May, Myrtle Irene and Isabel "Belle" M.
With no 1890 Census still around, the 1900 Census provides us with our first glimpse of the family, living in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Reuben, 43, was doing farm labor. Amanda, 43, reported that she had had six children and that all had survived to that census. Home with their parents were Mary, 15; Frances, 12; Mertie, 8; Pearl, 7; and Belle, 4. Also living with the family was 40-year-old Martin Asper, Amanda's widowed brother, and Martin's son Carl, 9. Martin was also doing farm labor.
17-year-old Noah was not listed with his family, and I couldn't find him elsewhere, but he couldn't have been too far away as he got married four months later on the family's farm, wedding first wife Valerie Sicily Dodd (nee Kemp) on 21 Oct 1900. At 23, Valerie was five years older than Noah and had previously married John Frank Dodd on (or shortly after) 1 Apr 1893. Frank and Valerie had two children together—Ethel May, born on 7 Aug 1893; and Chester Arthur, born on 31 Jul 1895.
The same week Valerie and Frank's divorce was granted in Oct 1900, Noah and Valerie got a marriage license. (From: Marshall County Independent – Fri 26 Oct 1900 p.5) "A Country Wedding. Mr. Noah D. Ackles and Mrs. Volene [sic] Dodd, both residents of Marshall county, were united in marriage by the Rev. R.J. Parrett, of the U.B. church, of this city, Sunday at 12 p.m., at the home of the groom's father about two and one-half miles south of Plymouth. Immediately after the marriage ceremony the guests present retired to the dining room, where a sumptuous repast was served."
Noah and Valerie had three children together—Thelma Alberta, born on 28 Jan 1905; Irma Bernice, born on 27 Jul 1907; and Carmen Virginia, born on 13 Jul 1914.
Noah was a brick mason. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 14 Dec 1905 p. 5) "J.H. Willey has sold one of his cement block machines to Noah Ackles, who will go into the manufacture of blocks during the winter for building houses. Cement blocks seem to have come to stay and it is probable that before many years most new houses will be built of that material." So true.
It seems that Noah made a quick flip of some property in the fall of 1909. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 30 Sep 1909 p. 5) "Corse and Glass, two hustling young men are now proprietors of the River Bank Restaurant. They purchased it of Noah Ackles Tuesday and have taken possession." (From same: Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 1) "…this morning the River Side Restaurant was gutted by fire. This restaurant was owned by Bernard Corse and Earl Glass, they having purchased it a week ago from Noah Ackles who had purchased it from Kelckner two weeks before selling to Glass and Corse. The fire was caused by the explosion of a gasoline stove at six o'clock in the morning and in five minutes the inside of the restaurant was a mass of flames…" Yikes!
It seems that the Ackles "got out of Dodge" just in the nick of time. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 5) "Noah Ackles and family have moved to Kokomo." Kokomo, Indiana is about 65 miles south of the family's previous home in Plymouth.
The 1910 Census provided a nice snapshot of the family. Not surprisingly, they were living in Kokomo, Howard Co., IN. Also not surprisingly, Noah Ackles, 29, was earning a living as a brick mason. Valerie, 31, reported that she had had four children, all of them still living. With them were daughters Thelma, 5, and Irma, 2. Valerie's two older children—Ethel, 16; and Chester, 14—were living about 88 miles to the north in South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana with their father Frank Dodd, grandmother Rebecca Dodd, and their uncle Stephen Dodd.
By the time Noah and Valerie's daughter Carmen joined the family on 13 Jul 1914, the family had left Kokomo and were in South Bend.
Sadly, a year after Carmen's birth, the family lost wife and mother Valerie on 22 Sep 1915, aged 38, claimed by cervical cancer. So very sad.
With three young children in the balance, Noah quickly remarried, wedding Edna K. Casselman (nee Viall) on 25 Oct 1915 in Cassopolis, Cass Co., Michigan. Edna had previously married Cortlin S. Casselman on 18 Dec 1900 and they had two children together--Irene Thelma and Cortlin S. Jr. After Edna and Cortlin divorced, the two children stayed with their father.
It seems that more bad luck managed to find its way to Noah's door. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 4 Jun 1917 p. 5) "TWO CARS STOLEN. South Bend and Elkhart Automobiles Are Taken Sunday. Two stolen automobiles were reported to the police Sunday, one being taken from Elkhart while the other machine was stolen from this city. The Elkhart police wired the South Bend force to watch for a Ford, five passenger car, with license plates No. M – 73. Noah Ackles, East Ewing avenue, reported that his Ford machine was stolen Sunday about 3:30 p.m. from in front of the Auditorium theater. The license plates on this car were No. B-7509." Double yikes!!
On his 12 Sep 1918 World War I registration, Noah Delbert Ackles, 40, reported that he was living at 904 E. Donald St. in South Bend, working as a self-employed brick layer. The clerk determined that he was a medium height and build, with brown hair and eyes. Noted as his "closest relative" was wife Edna Ackles.
As bad luck would have it, Edna would not be Noah's wife for much longer. (From: South Bend News-Times – Sun 14 Apr 1918 p. 4) "ASKS DIVORCE. Edna K. Ackles has entered suit in the circuit court for divorce against Noah D. Ackles, charging that he made threats against her life, called her vile names and otherwise abused her. She asks for $2,000 alimony. The couple was married Oct. 25, 1915, and separated this month." Noah had his own side of the story. (From: The South Bend Tribune - Fri 7 Mar 1919 p. 5) ACKLES ASKS DIVORCE. Claims Wife is Quarrelsome and is Fault Finder. Noah B. Ackles filed suit in the superior court this morning for a divorce from wife, Edna K. Ackles, charging her with cruel and inhuman treatment in that she was quarrelsome and always finding fault with anything that he did. He further stated that she misused and punished his children, by a former wife, without cause."
When the 1920 Census came due, it caught up with Noah at 1318 Clover St. in South Bend. Noah, 41, was noted as a contractor. Daughters Thelma, 14 and working in a watch factory, and Carmen, 6, were with him. It is unclear where 13-year-old daughter Irma was. Also living with the family was Rena Belle Fitterling (nee Asbury), 31, and her two sons, 14-year-old Cecil and 10-year-old Homer. They were noted as Noah's wife and step-sons. There were also four roomers living in the home.
As for Rena, she had previously married Cecil and Homer's father John Fitterling on 23 Dec 1903 in Johnson Co., Missouri. Though noted as Noah's wife in 1920, their marriage record notes the marriage on 13 Mar 1924 in Berrien Co., Michigan.
It wouldn't be long before there was trouble in paradise. (From: The South Bend Tribune – 13 May 1924 p. 13) "…In another complaint filed in the same court, Rena B. Ackles asks for a divorce from Noah D. Ackles, charging cruel and inhuman treatment. They separated in May, 1924. Mrs. Ackles lives at 1318 Clover street."
Noah quickly moved on, wedding fourth-wife Katherine Larue Mathews (nee French) on 26 Mar 1927 in Lake Co., Indiana. It was a third marriage for Larue. In 1914 in Champaign, Illinois, she first married Fred E. Obrien, with whom she had a son named Lawrence Fletcher, born on 30 Apr 1915. Larue and Fred divorced and she next married Forest Temple Mathews on 21 Sep 1920 in Goshen, Indiana. They welcomed son Alfred Thomas Mathews on 7 Aug 1923. On son Alfred's birth certificate, he is noted as Larue's third child and that only two of Larue's children were living, so Larue had a second child with one of her two former husbands. Forest and Larue also divorced.
Noah and Larue would welcome three sons of their own—twins Ronald Delbert and Donald James on 14 Jan 1928, and son Henry Earl on 4 Oct 1931.
There were most certainly some fun times. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 8 Jul 1929 p. 15) "…This is the last week for receiving entries for the third annual Tribune Playland baby parade to be held in Playland park…To date about 100 children have been entered and every indication points to a very successful affair. The latest entries are the following: … Ronald and Donald Ackles, twins, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1607 Marine street, born Jan. 14, 1928 in South Bend, … Ronald and Donald are the second pair of twins to be entered in the parade. Alfred Ackles, also a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born Aug. 7, 1923, in Hammond, Ind ... Carmine [sic] Virginia Ackles, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born in South Bend July 13, 1914 …"
Noah and Larue's blended family appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 374 Sibley St. in Hammond, Lake Co., Indiana. Noah, 48, was still working as a mason contractor. Larue, 33, was keeping house, tending to her son Alfred Matthews, 6, and the twins, Ronald and Donald, 2. Also there was a lodger. The following year, son Henry Earl joined the family on 4 Oct 1931.
The year 1934 brought a horrific loss with the suicide of Noah's daughter Irma Bernice McGirr on 6 September due to phenol / carbolic acid poisoning. She was only 27.
It seems that Noah and Larue's twins had similar inclinations. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Sun 23 Aug 1936 p. 8) "After the fight is over, the crowd probably will be unable to tell which of these young boxers [there was a picture of Donald and Ronald] is the winner as they resemble each other so closely. The twins, Donald (left) and Ronald, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1123 West Laporte street, Plymouth, Ind., will give a four-round boxing exhibit at the National Twins' association reunion next Sunday in Fort Wayne, Ind. They have been training as boxers under Lorie Powell, Plymouth hardware dealer, since they were five years old and have given exhibition bouts in a number of places in this vicinity since last June. The twins, aged eight, attend St. Michael's school in Plymouth. Until five years ago they resided in South Bend."
The 1940 Census placed the Ackles family at 910 W. Laporte St. in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Noah Ackles, 61, was still working as a mason. Larue, 42 was working as a seam sealer in an auto radiator factory, likely McCords. There were still four children at home—Alfred, 16, Ronald and Donald, 12, and Henry, 8.
To drum up business, Noah placed ads in the local newspaper—"MASON contractor. Laying brick and stone of all kind. Cement block foundations. Fireplaces. No cement work. Bert Ackles, 1225 E. Miner St."
The attack on Pearl Harbor just before Christmas in 1941, dragged the U.S. into World War II and Noah and Larue's boys were called to action. First to go was son Alfred, using Ackles as his surname rather than Mathews. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 6 Mar 1944 p. 13) "A/c Alfred T. Ackles has been transferred from Keesler field, Biloxi, Miss., to Mississippi State college at Starkville, according to word received here by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, of 1006 South Jackson street. Prior to his induction into the air corps Cadet Ackles was a member of the South Bend Junior Symphony orchestra in which he played as a drummer. He is a member of the school dance band at Mississippi State and also played as a member of the field band while at Keesler field."
The twins displayed their solidarity and both joined the Army. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 3 Mar 1944 p. 27) "…a set of 18-year-old twins, have been accepted by the army…The twins are Ronald Delbert Ackles and Donald James Ackles, of 1006 Jackson street. Both youths received their final examinations at Indianapolis at the same time. Ronald requested immediate induction, local board clerks stated, but Donald chose to await his call. Donald, however, returned to Indianapolis two days later and also requested immediate induction so he could join his brother."
There was updated information about Noah and Larue's boys a month later. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Wed 5 Apr 1944 p. 21) "Private Roland P. Ackles and his brother, Private Donald J. Ackles, have returned to Camp Atterbury, Ind., after visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1006 South Jackson street…Another son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, Aviation Cadet Alfred T. Ackles is stationed at the Mississippi state college at Starkville and a fourth son, Sergt. Lawrence F. O'Brien, is with a railroad division in India."
With just 13-year-old son Henry still at home, trouble was brewing. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 13 Apr 1945 p. 17) "Divorce Cases Filed. ACKLES—LaRue Ackles, 917 East Fourth street, Mishawaka, against Noah Delbert Ackles; married March 26, 1924, separated March 18, 1945; charges cruelty and asks custody of one child; superior court No. 2."
On his 22 Mar 1943, Noah Delbert Ackles, 60, reported an address at 1717 Anderson in South Bend. He was no longer self-employed, but rather working for Bendix. He measured in at 5' 8" tall, weighed in at 137 lbs., and his eyes were noted as hazel, his hair as gray. In the notes section, the clerk wrote "Registrant claims that he thought he was too old to register." The contact person on the record was son Ronald Ackles.
Tragically for all concerned, on 26 Jan 1950, Noah purposefully ingested tincture of iodine and died at age 67. His ex-wife Larue was the informant on his death certificate. After his death, Larue relocated out west, got a job as a registered nurse and eventually married fourth-husband Robert Poinier. She died on April Fools Day, 1 Apr 1973 at age 76. Of interest is the mention of a daughter-in-law—Mrs. Raymonde O. Ackles. Ahhh…the mysteries.
And though Noah was clearly not lucky in love, he was father to six children and four step-children who would keep him in their memories.
Noah was the first child born to Reuben Steward Ackles and Amanda Ellen Asper, who wed on New Years Eve, 31 Dec 1881 in Butler Co., Ohio. Noah would eventually be joined by five sisters—Alta Pearl, Mary Alice, Frances May, Myrtle Irene and Isabel "Belle" M.
With no 1890 Census still around, the 1900 Census provides us with our first glimpse of the family, living in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Reuben, 43, was doing farm labor. Amanda, 43, reported that she had had six children and that all had survived to that census. Home with their parents were Mary, 15; Frances, 12; Mertie, 8; Pearl, 7; and Belle, 4. Also living with the family was 40-year-old Martin Asper, Amanda's widowed brother, and Martin's son Carl, 9. Martin was also doing farm labor.
17-year-old Noah was not listed with his family, and I couldn't find him elsewhere, but he couldn't have been too far away as he got married four months later on the family's farm, wedding first wife Valerie Sicily Dodd (nee Kemp) on 21 Oct 1900. At 23, Valerie was five years older than Noah and had previously married John Frank Dodd on (or shortly after) 1 Apr 1893. Frank and Valerie had two children together—Ethel May, born on 7 Aug 1893; and Chester Arthur, born on 31 Jul 1895.
The same week Valerie and Frank's divorce was granted in Oct 1900, Noah and Valerie got a marriage license. (From: Marshall County Independent – Fri 26 Oct 1900 p.5) "A Country Wedding. Mr. Noah D. Ackles and Mrs. Volene [sic] Dodd, both residents of Marshall county, were united in marriage by the Rev. R.J. Parrett, of the U.B. church, of this city, Sunday at 12 p.m., at the home of the groom's father about two and one-half miles south of Plymouth. Immediately after the marriage ceremony the guests present retired to the dining room, where a sumptuous repast was served."
Noah and Valerie had three children together—Thelma Alberta, born on 28 Jan 1905; Irma Bernice, born on 27 Jul 1907; and Carmen Virginia, born on 13 Jul 1914.
Noah was a brick mason. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 14 Dec 1905 p. 5) "J.H. Willey has sold one of his cement block machines to Noah Ackles, who will go into the manufacture of blocks during the winter for building houses. Cement blocks seem to have come to stay and it is probable that before many years most new houses will be built of that material." So true.
It seems that Noah made a quick flip of some property in the fall of 1909. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 30 Sep 1909 p. 5) "Corse and Glass, two hustling young men are now proprietors of the River Bank Restaurant. They purchased it of Noah Ackles Tuesday and have taken possession." (From same: Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 1) "…this morning the River Side Restaurant was gutted by fire. This restaurant was owned by Bernard Corse and Earl Glass, they having purchased it a week ago from Noah Ackles who had purchased it from Kelckner two weeks before selling to Glass and Corse. The fire was caused by the explosion of a gasoline stove at six o'clock in the morning and in five minutes the inside of the restaurant was a mass of flames…" Yikes!
It seems that the Ackles "got out of Dodge" just in the nick of time. (From: The Weekly Republican – Thu 7 Oct 1909 p. 5) "Noah Ackles and family have moved to Kokomo." Kokomo, Indiana is about 65 miles south of the family's previous home in Plymouth.
The 1910 Census provided a nice snapshot of the family. Not surprisingly, they were living in Kokomo, Howard Co., IN. Also not surprisingly, Noah Ackles, 29, was earning a living as a brick mason. Valerie, 31, reported that she had had four children, all of them still living. With them were daughters Thelma, 5, and Irma, 2. Valerie's two older children—Ethel, 16; and Chester, 14—were living about 88 miles to the north in South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana with their father Frank Dodd, grandmother Rebecca Dodd, and their uncle Stephen Dodd.
By the time Noah and Valerie's daughter Carmen joined the family on 13 Jul 1914, the family had left Kokomo and were in South Bend.
Sadly, a year after Carmen's birth, the family lost wife and mother Valerie on 22 Sep 1915, aged 38, claimed by cervical cancer. So very sad.
With three young children in the balance, Noah quickly remarried, wedding Edna K. Casselman (nee Viall) on 25 Oct 1915 in Cassopolis, Cass Co., Michigan. Edna had previously married Cortlin S. Casselman on 18 Dec 1900 and they had two children together--Irene Thelma and Cortlin S. Jr. After Edna and Cortlin divorced, the two children stayed with their father.
It seems that more bad luck managed to find its way to Noah's door. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 4 Jun 1917 p. 5) "TWO CARS STOLEN. South Bend and Elkhart Automobiles Are Taken Sunday. Two stolen automobiles were reported to the police Sunday, one being taken from Elkhart while the other machine was stolen from this city. The Elkhart police wired the South Bend force to watch for a Ford, five passenger car, with license plates No. M – 73. Noah Ackles, East Ewing avenue, reported that his Ford machine was stolen Sunday about 3:30 p.m. from in front of the Auditorium theater. The license plates on this car were No. B-7509." Double yikes!!
On his 12 Sep 1918 World War I registration, Noah Delbert Ackles, 40, reported that he was living at 904 E. Donald St. in South Bend, working as a self-employed brick layer. The clerk determined that he was a medium height and build, with brown hair and eyes. Noted as his "closest relative" was wife Edna Ackles.
As bad luck would have it, Edna would not be Noah's wife for much longer. (From: South Bend News-Times – Sun 14 Apr 1918 p. 4) "ASKS DIVORCE. Edna K. Ackles has entered suit in the circuit court for divorce against Noah D. Ackles, charging that he made threats against her life, called her vile names and otherwise abused her. She asks for $2,000 alimony. The couple was married Oct. 25, 1915, and separated this month." Noah had his own side of the story. (From: The South Bend Tribune - Fri 7 Mar 1919 p. 5) ACKLES ASKS DIVORCE. Claims Wife is Quarrelsome and is Fault Finder. Noah B. Ackles filed suit in the superior court this morning for a divorce from wife, Edna K. Ackles, charging her with cruel and inhuman treatment in that she was quarrelsome and always finding fault with anything that he did. He further stated that she misused and punished his children, by a former wife, without cause."
When the 1920 Census came due, it caught up with Noah at 1318 Clover St. in South Bend. Noah, 41, was noted as a contractor. Daughters Thelma, 14 and working in a watch factory, and Carmen, 6, were with him. It is unclear where 13-year-old daughter Irma was. Also living with the family was Rena Belle Fitterling (nee Asbury), 31, and her two sons, 14-year-old Cecil and 10-year-old Homer. They were noted as Noah's wife and step-sons. There were also four roomers living in the home.
As for Rena, she had previously married Cecil and Homer's father John Fitterling on 23 Dec 1903 in Johnson Co., Missouri. Though noted as Noah's wife in 1920, their marriage record notes the marriage on 13 Mar 1924 in Berrien Co., Michigan.
It wouldn't be long before there was trouble in paradise. (From: The South Bend Tribune – 13 May 1924 p. 13) "…In another complaint filed in the same court, Rena B. Ackles asks for a divorce from Noah D. Ackles, charging cruel and inhuman treatment. They separated in May, 1924. Mrs. Ackles lives at 1318 Clover street."
Noah quickly moved on, wedding fourth-wife Katherine Larue Mathews (nee French) on 26 Mar 1927 in Lake Co., Indiana. It was a third marriage for Larue. In 1914 in Champaign, Illinois, she first married Fred E. Obrien, with whom she had a son named Lawrence Fletcher, born on 30 Apr 1915. Larue and Fred divorced and she next married Forest Temple Mathews on 21 Sep 1920 in Goshen, Indiana. They welcomed son Alfred Thomas Mathews on 7 Aug 1923. On son Alfred's birth certificate, he is noted as Larue's third child and that only two of Larue's children were living, so Larue had a second child with one of her two former husbands. Forest and Larue also divorced.
Noah and Larue would welcome three sons of their own—twins Ronald Delbert and Donald James on 14 Jan 1928, and son Henry Earl on 4 Oct 1931.
There were most certainly some fun times. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 8 Jul 1929 p. 15) "…This is the last week for receiving entries for the third annual Tribune Playland baby parade to be held in Playland park…To date about 100 children have been entered and every indication points to a very successful affair. The latest entries are the following: … Ronald and Donald Ackles, twins, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1607 Marine street, born Jan. 14, 1928 in South Bend, … Ronald and Donald are the second pair of twins to be entered in the parade. Alfred Ackles, also a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born Aug. 7, 1923, in Hammond, Ind ... Carmine [sic] Virginia Ackles, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, born in South Bend July 13, 1914 …"
Noah and Larue's blended family appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 374 Sibley St. in Hammond, Lake Co., Indiana. Noah, 48, was still working as a mason contractor. Larue, 33, was keeping house, tending to her son Alfred Matthews, 6, and the twins, Ronald and Donald, 2. Also there was a lodger. The following year, son Henry Earl joined the family on 4 Oct 1931.
The year 1934 brought a horrific loss with the suicide of Noah's daughter Irma Bernice McGirr on 6 September due to phenol / carbolic acid poisoning. She was only 27.
It seems that Noah and Larue's twins had similar inclinations. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Sun 23 Aug 1936 p. 8) "After the fight is over, the crowd probably will be unable to tell which of these young boxers [there was a picture of Donald and Ronald] is the winner as they resemble each other so closely. The twins, Donald (left) and Ronald, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1123 West Laporte street, Plymouth, Ind., will give a four-round boxing exhibit at the National Twins' association reunion next Sunday in Fort Wayne, Ind. They have been training as boxers under Lorie Powell, Plymouth hardware dealer, since they were five years old and have given exhibition bouts in a number of places in this vicinity since last June. The twins, aged eight, attend St. Michael's school in Plymouth. Until five years ago they resided in South Bend."
The 1940 Census placed the Ackles family at 910 W. Laporte St. in Plymouth, Marshall Co., Indiana. Noah Ackles, 61, was still working as a mason. Larue, 42 was working as a seam sealer in an auto radiator factory, likely McCords. There were still four children at home—Alfred, 16, Ronald and Donald, 12, and Henry, 8.
To drum up business, Noah placed ads in the local newspaper—"MASON contractor. Laying brick and stone of all kind. Cement block foundations. Fireplaces. No cement work. Bert Ackles, 1225 E. Miner St."
The attack on Pearl Harbor just before Christmas in 1941, dragged the U.S. into World War II and Noah and Larue's boys were called to action. First to go was son Alfred, using Ackles as his surname rather than Mathews. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Mon 6 Mar 1944 p. 13) "A/c Alfred T. Ackles has been transferred from Keesler field, Biloxi, Miss., to Mississippi State college at Starkville, according to word received here by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, of 1006 South Jackson street. Prior to his induction into the air corps Cadet Ackles was a member of the South Bend Junior Symphony orchestra in which he played as a drummer. He is a member of the school dance band at Mississippi State and also played as a member of the field band while at Keesler field."
The twins displayed their solidarity and both joined the Army. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 3 Mar 1944 p. 27) "…a set of 18-year-old twins, have been accepted by the army…The twins are Ronald Delbert Ackles and Donald James Ackles, of 1006 Jackson street. Both youths received their final examinations at Indianapolis at the same time. Ronald requested immediate induction, local board clerks stated, but Donald chose to await his call. Donald, however, returned to Indianapolis two days later and also requested immediate induction so he could join his brother."
There was updated information about Noah and Larue's boys a month later. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Wed 5 Apr 1944 p. 21) "Private Roland P. Ackles and his brother, Private Donald J. Ackles, have returned to Camp Atterbury, Ind., after visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Ackles, 1006 South Jackson street…Another son of Mr. and Mrs. Ackles, Aviation Cadet Alfred T. Ackles is stationed at the Mississippi state college at Starkville and a fourth son, Sergt. Lawrence F. O'Brien, is with a railroad division in India."
With just 13-year-old son Henry still at home, trouble was brewing. (From: The South Bend Tribune – Fri 13 Apr 1945 p. 17) "Divorce Cases Filed. ACKLES—LaRue Ackles, 917 East Fourth street, Mishawaka, against Noah Delbert Ackles; married March 26, 1924, separated March 18, 1945; charges cruelty and asks custody of one child; superior court No. 2."
On his 22 Mar 1943, Noah Delbert Ackles, 60, reported an address at 1717 Anderson in South Bend. He was no longer self-employed, but rather working for Bendix. He measured in at 5' 8" tall, weighed in at 137 lbs., and his eyes were noted as hazel, his hair as gray. In the notes section, the clerk wrote "Registrant claims that he thought he was too old to register." The contact person on the record was son Ronald Ackles.
Tragically for all concerned, on 26 Jan 1950, Noah purposefully ingested tincture of iodine and died at age 67. His ex-wife Larue was the informant on his death certificate. After his death, Larue relocated out west, got a job as a registered nurse and eventually married fourth-husband Robert Poinier. She died on April Fools Day, 1 Apr 1973 at age 76. Of interest is the mention of a daughter-in-law—Mrs. Raymonde O. Ackles. Ahhh…the mysteries.
And though Noah was clearly not lucky in love, he was father to six children and four step-children who would keep him in their memories.
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