[My research on this family has been primarily on the descendants of Hezekiah Cook III (below). Information on the early generations of this family is based on research by Christine Petitt. She has a web page with information on descendants and other relatives of the family at the following address: http://www.familytreemaker.com/users/p/e/t/Christine-M-Pettit/ and invites anyone following this family to contact her at the following address: cpettitone@roadrunner.com]
1. John1 COOK Sr. He was born ca. 1660-65. He married Mary DOWNES, daughter of Thomas and Katharine Downes on 25 Nov 1686 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH. They had at least the following children:
2. John2 COOK Jr. (John1). He was born on 5 May 1692 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died ca. 1755. He married Lydia YOUNG, daughter of Thomas Young and Mary Roberts in Dover, Strafford Co. NH ca. 1715. They had the following children:
3. Rebecca2 COOK (John1). She was born ca. 1693 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died after 1734. She married John DREW as his second wife. They had several children. After her first husband died, she married Samuel STARBIRD. For more information about the Starbirds and the descendants of this family, contact Dottie Crawford at DOLLYBEAR2@AOL.COM.
4. Peter Downes2 COOK (John1). He was born ca. 1694 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died ca. 1762.
5. Marcy3 COOK (John2, John1). She was born on 21 Jun 1716 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died on 12 Mar 1809. She married John CLOUTMAN ca. 1746.
6. Hezekiah3 COOK I. (John2, John1). He was born on 1 Jan 1716/17 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died on 12 Mar 1807 in Madbury, Strafford Co. NH. He married Mrs. - COOK ca. 1741. They had the following children:
7. Mary3 COOK (John2, John1). She was born on 1 Apr 1720 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died after 1755. She married William JONES.
8. Ebenezer3 COOK (John2, John1). He was born on 26 Apr 1723 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died on 17 Aug 1745 at sea.
9. John3 COOK (John2, John1). He was born on 6 Nov 1725 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died after 1755.
10. Richard3 COOK (John2, John1). He was born on 21 Dec 1727 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died ca. 1764.
11. Phebe3 COOK (John2, John1). She was born on 17 Mar 1729/30 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH. She married Joseph CLAY.
12. Daniel3 COOK Sr. (John2, John1). He was born on 11 Dec 1732 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died ca. 1800 in Windham, ME. Daniel first married Mary Ann VARNEY, daughter of Thomas VARNEY. She was born on 11 Nov 1740 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH and died in 1782. He second married Mary WESTCOTT, who died on 8 Nov 1828. Daniel had issue by both of his wives. For further information on their descendants, please contact "Joe Spence" spencefly@oregontrail.net.
13. Jedediah4 COOK (Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born ca. 1758 in Madbury, Strafford Co.NH and died on 16 Nov 1806 in Madbury, Strafford Co.NH. He married Catherine TUTTLE on 7 Aug 1787 in Madbury, Stafford Co. NH. He and his immediate descendants are all buried in a family graveyard near Madbury. They had the following children:
14. Hezekiah4 COOK II. (Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born ca. 1770-74 and died after 1830. On 10 Aug 1795, he married Keziah BROWN , who was born ca. 1772. (She may have been a daughter of Joseph Brown). They had ten children, three of whom have been verified:
15. Hezekiah5 COOK (Jedediah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born on 8 Aug 1790 in Madbury, Strafford Co. NH and died on 16 Mar 1833 in Madbury, Strafford Co. NH. He never married.
16. John5 COOK (Jedediah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born on 6 Aug 1803 and died on 14 Mar 1851. He married first Dorothy S. MOULTON on 22 Nov 1827. She was born on 8 Feb 1806 in Somersworth, NH and died on 16 Jun 1836. John married second Esther F. BICKFORD in Feb of 1837.
17. Jedediah5 COOK Jr. (Jedediah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born on 19 May 1806 in NH and died on 26 Jan 1876 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH. He married Lucinda HARRIS on 30 Apr 1841. She was born ca. 1814 in ME and died on 18 Mar 1895 in Dover, Strafford Co. NH. The had the following children:
18. Lydia P.5 COOK (Hezekiah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). She was born ca. 1796-1797 in Madbury, Strafford Co. NH and died on 6 Aug 1876 in Deerfield, Rockingham Co. NH.
19. Hezekiah5 COOK III. (Hezekiah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born ca. 1798 in NH. He died between 1860-1870. The records I have found for him refer to him as a "farmer" and a "yeoman." The first definitive record that mentions him is a record of his marriage to Eliza FRENCH on 28 May 1821 in Northwood, Rockingham Co. NH. According to the record, he was from Epping, Rockingham Co. NH, while she was from Nottingham, Rockingham Co. N.H. From the census records, Eliza FRENCH was also born ca. 1798 and died on 20 Aug 1885 according to her obituary. Hezekiah COOK and his wife Eliza FRENCH are presumably buried in one of eleven graves marked by field stones without inscriptions in the Earle-Whitehouse cemetery, Waterboro, York Co. ME.
Hezekiah appears to be a son of the Hezekiah COOK II mentioned above who resided in Madbury, Stratford Co. NH during the 1800-1820 censuses. Eliza appears to be the daughter of Samuel FRENCH, who is the only head of household with the surname FRENCH in the 1820 census for Nottingham, Rockford Co. NH who had a woman living in his household of the appropriate age.
Hezekiah COOK is presumably one and the same Hezekiah COOK listed in the 1830 census for Epping, Rockingham Co. NH. He and his wife migrated to Waterborough, York Co. ME and are included in the 1840 census where he is listed as engaged in agriculture, with a total of seven persons in his house.
TRANSCRIPT OF A BILL OF SALE BY HEZEKIAH COOK TO GILMAN & MERRILL ON 31 JAN 1842: "Know all men by these these presents That I Hezekiah Cook of Waterborough in the county of york and State of Maine farmer for and in the consideration of the sum of three dollars to me in hand, well and truly paid at or before the signing, sealling and delivering of these presents by Gilman & Merrill of Waterboro, State and County afore said traders the receipt where I the said Hezekiah Cook do hereby acknowledge have granted bargained and sold and do by these presents do grant bargain and sell unto the said Gillman & Merrill the following property. Viz. one cow about eight years old about all Read two white spots [?] on her station one on her hip the same I bought of Henry Walker at the value of six dollars, to have and to hold, the said granted and bargained Cow unto the said Gillman and Merrill heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns to them only proper use benefit and belong forever, and I the said Hezekiah Cook do avouch myself to be the true and lawful owner of the said Cow in manner afore said and I do for myself, my heirs, executors, and administrators, hereby covenant and agree to warrent and defend the said Cow against the lawful claims and demands of all persons whatsoever unto the said Gillman & Merrill their heirs executors administrators or assigns. In witness where of the said Hezekiah Cook have here unto set my nhand and seal this the thirty first day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred forty two. Signed sealed and delivered In Presence of us Benj. Leavitt [and] Hezekiah Cook X his mark. Received the above instrument the 11 day of February 1842 and Made true Record thence of. Attest. Robert Huntress Town Clerk" (Town Of Waterboro, York Co., Town Records, V. 2, P. 163).
At a Waterborough Town Meeting held on 6 Apr 1846 Hezekiah COOK was chosen as a surveyor of highways. On 5 Apr 1847 he was chosen as a "tythingman."
TRANSCRIPT OF A BILL OF SALE BY HEZEKIAH COOK TO JAMES LEAVITT ON 29 MAR 1848: "Know all Men by these Presents That I Hezkiah Cook of Waterboro' in the County of York & State of Maine yeoman for and in consideration of the sum of fifteen dollars to me in hand, well and truly paid, before the singing sealing and delivery of these presents by James Leavitt of Waterboro, State & County aforesaid Trader the receipt whereof I the said Hezekiah Cook do hereby acknowledge, have granted, bargained and sold, and by these presents do grant, bargain, and sell unto the said James Leavitt the following Property to Wit one cow five years old Red Color the same I had of Moma Yorke last fall also one steer calf that came from the same steer last December to have and to hold, the said granted and bargained Cow & Calf unto the said James Leavitt his heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns to them only proper use benefit and belong forever, and I the said Hezekiah Cook do avouch myself to be the true and lawful owner of the said Cow & Calf and have in me full power and right and lawful authority to dispose of the said Cow & Calf in manner aforesaid. And I do for myself, my heirs, executors, and administrators, bond covenant and agree to warrent and defend the said Cow & Calf against the lawful claims of and demand all of all persons whatsoever unto the said James Leavitt his heirs executors administrators or assigns. Provided Nevertheless that if the said Hezekiah Cook or his executors an administrators, shall pay unto the said James Leavitt or his executors, administrators or assigns, the sum of fifteen dollars in five months from sale then this Bill of Sale to be void, otherwise to remain in full force & virtue- In witness thereof I the said Hezekiah Cook have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty ninth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fourty eight. Signed sealed and Delivered In Presence of Joseph G. Roberts and Hzkiah Cook X his mark. A true Copy Attest. John Whood Town Clerk" (Town Of Waterboro, York Co., Town Records, V. 2, P. 234)
Hezekiah and his family are included in the 1850 census for neighboring Hollis, York Co. ME; in the 1860 census he (62 yrs. old) his wife (62 yrs. old) and youngest son Hosea (24 years old) are included once more in the census for Waterborough, York Co. ME. By their location in the census (assuming it was done in order) they were living in the "Gerry neighborhood" of North Waterboro, near Edgecomb's bridge and the Limington Line near Hollis. In the 1870 census for Waterborough, York Co., his widow Eliza (age 74) appears in an entry with her son Hosea.
OBITUARY: "North Waterboro. Mrs. Eliza Cook died on Saturday 20 inst., aged 86 years and 5 months." (4 Sep 1885 Biddeford Journal (Biddeford, ME) p. 2)
Hezekiah COOK and Eliza FRENCH had the following children:
20. Sarah Davis5 COOK (Hezekiah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). She was born on 24 Apr 1814 in Epping, Rockingham Co. NH and died on 1 Nov 1890 in Bradford, PA.
21. Joseph Brown6 COOK (Hezekiah5, Hezekiah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born ca. 1823-25 in either NH or ME and died 5 Nov 1908 in Gloucester, Essex Co. MA. He was a stonemason.
Joseph Brown married Salome ANDREWS on 24 Apr 1856 in Moscow, Somerset, ME (IGI Batch 5015199 Source 1553647). (The date of this marriage record suggests his son Bella was born either out of wedlock or by a previous wife.) All but the last of the census records mentioned below refer to Salome as being born in ME. She was born ca. 1822 and appears to have preceded her husband in death.
CENSUS RECORDS: According to the 1850 census for Hollis, York, Co. ME Joseph B. was born ca. 1823 in NH. A second 1850 census record that appears to refer to him includes him in the 1850 census for Gloucester, Essex Co. MA, where he is indicated as being born in 1825 and a stonecutter born in ME and living in a boarding house. The 1860 census for Gloucester, Essex Co. MA includes a "Joseph B. Cook" age 34, and includes entries for Salome (age 28), Bella (age 6) and "Joseph F." (age 2). (The latter appears to be a reference to his son Frank.) Both of the children are listed as having been born in ME. In the 1870 census for Gloucester, Essex Co. MA, Joseph B. (age 41, stonecutter)is listed with his wife Salome (age 38), son Bela (age 16) and son Francis J. (age 12). In the 1880 census for Gloucester, Essex Co. MA, Joseph B. Cook (age 52, "foreman in Quarry") is accompanied by his wife Salome (age 48), and children Bela (age 26), Frank J. (age 21) and daughter Lauraetta (age 8). In all of these entries Joseph B. is listed as being born in NH. In the 1900 census for Gloucester, Essex Co. MA Joseph B. (age 72) and his wife Salome (age 68) are listed together at 744 Washington St. She is indicated as having had four children, of whom 2 survived. Next to them appears to be an entry for their son, "Francis J. Cook" (age 40) and his family.
In records of Waterborough Town Meetings a Joseph COOK was chosen and sworn as a surveyor of highways on 24 Apr 1847. A record of assessment of taxes for Town of Waterborough in 1893 includes reference to a "Joseph Cook of Lunesville [?], Mass.: lot of land on Portland Road bounded by land of J. W. Haley, Ivory Earll heirs, H. L. Strout and A. Fluent. Acres: 10." He is also mentioned in a Quit-claim deed from Joseph A. Hobbs to Belinda Ellen Fluent Cook as the original owner of the Cook Homestead, and living in Lanesville, Essex Co., MA. It is interesting to note that the 1860 census entry for Joseph B. Cook mentioned above specifically states that the Gloucester entries on the page refer to individuals having the Lanesville post office box.
Joseph B. Cook appears in the 1902, 1903, 1905, 1907, and 1909 city directories for Gloucester, Essex Co. MA. In each he is listed as a foreman residing at 744 Washington (Bay View). In the 1911 city directory for Gloucester, Essex Co. MA, an entry states "Cook, Joseph B. died Nov 5 1908" (p. 104). There is no reference to his widow.
OBITUARY: "DIED... COOK- At Bay View, Nov. 5, Mr. Joseph B. Cook, 82 yrs. 4 mos. 4 dys." (Gloucester Daily Times and Cape Ann Advertiser 6 Nov 1908).
FUNERAL NOTICES: "LANESVILLE... Mortuary. It has been decided that the funeral of the late Joseph Brown Cook will be held in the Bay View Methodist Episcopal church at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon, because it will be more convenient and commodious than the family residence that was mentioned first. Cape Ann Lodge, Knights of Pythias, will meet in their hall at 1 o'clock and will attend the funeral in a body. Interment will be made at Oak Grove Cemetery." (Gloucester Daily Times and Cape Ann Advertiser 7 Nov 1908) "LANESVILLE... Funeral Services. Funeral services over the remains of the late Joseph Brown Cook were held in the Methodist Episcopal church in Bay View yesterday afternoon. Rev. M. Emory Wright officiated in a very acceptable manner by reading scriptural selections, speaking sympathetic words and offering prayer. The singers connected with the church rendered several selections, with Mrs. Helen Farwell as organist. About 25 members of Cape Ann Lodge, Knights of Pythias, attended in a body, besides others scattered throughout the audience. Prelate William Coad gave the Pythian ritual, after which friends passed around to take a last look at the remains. The pall bearers were brothers of the lodge, Charles F. Newman, John C. Hodgdon, Albert Lane and Charles W. Poole. Mr. Frank Cook of Wood's Holl and other relatives from out of town were present. Postmaster Charles H. Andrews of Pigeon Cove, a former superintendent of the Lanesville Granite Company where the deceased worked for many years, was present also, out of respect, as well as Mr. John W. Butman of Rockport, son of the former superintendent. At the close of the funeral services at the church the Pythian fraternity escorted the cortege as far as the Bay View engine house on the way to Oak Grove cemetery where interment was made." (Gloucester Daily Times and Cape Ann Advertiser 9 Nov 1908).
According to a note by his nephew, Charles Herbert COOK, Joseph B.COOK and Salome nee ANDREWS had three children:
2 i. John2 COOK Jr.
3 ii. Rebecca2 COOK
4 iii. Peter Downes2 COOK
5 i. Marcy3 COOK
6 ii. Hezekiah3 COOK I
7 iii. Mary3 COOK
8 iv. Ebenezer3 COOK
9 v. John3 COOK
10 vi. Richard3 COOK
11 vii. Phebe3 COOK
12 viii Daniel3 COOK
i. Sarah4 COOK. She was born ca. 1742.
ii. Ebenezer4 COOK. He was born ca. 1754-64.
13 iii. Jedediah4 COOK.
14 iv. Hezekiah4 COOK II
i. Thomas5 COOK . b. 13 Feb 1788.
15. ii. Hezekiah5 COOK.
iii. Susan5 COOK. b. 10 Jan 1794.
iv. Phebe5 COOK. b. 10 Jul 1796 and d. 23 Nov 1827.
v. Ebenezer5 COOK. b. 1 Mar 1799 and d. 18 Aug 1827.
16. vi. John5 COOK.
17. vii. Jedediah5 COOK
.
18 i. Lydia P.5 COOK
19 ii. Hezekiah5 COOK III
20 iii. Sarah Davis5 COOK
i. Phebe E.6 COOK. b. ca. 1842.
ii. Abby F.6 COOK. b. ca. 1844.
iii. Mary C.6 COOK. b. ca. 1846.
21 i. Joseph Brown6 COOK
ii. Samuel6 COOK. He was born ca. 1827 in ME (?).
22 iii. Charles Washington6 COOK
23 iv. Hosea M.6 COOK
24 vi. Elizabeth A.6 COOK
25 v. Henry H.6 COOK
26 i. Bela7 COOK
27 ii. Frank Joseph7 COOK
28 iii. Lauraetta7 COOK
iv. unknown
22. Charles Washington6 COOK (Hezekiah5, Hezekiah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born ca. 1831 in ME. He died 15 Mar 1877 in Waterborough, York Co., ME and was initially buried in Waterborough, York Co. ME. In 1925 both his and his wife's remains were transferred to the Eastern Cemetary, Gorham, Cumberland Co. ME. He was a farmer and later a teamster. Here's a photograph of him.
Charles COOK (age 20) is listed as living with his father in the 1850 census for Hollis, York Co. ME, age 20. A second entry that appears to refer to him is in the 1850 census for Waterboro, where a Charles COOK is listed as living with Ivory Earle (37), a farmer, and his wife Mary (31). The fact that Charles W. COOK is listed as a surveyor of highways for the general neighborhood of the Earle home at Waterboro Town Meetings for 1852, 1855, and 1857 (not to mention his future wife lived nearby), strongly suggests this entry also refers to him.
There is a record of his intention to marry Belinda Ellen FLUENT, daughter of Ezra FLUENT III & Rhoda A. CHADBOURNE, on 17 Feb 1855 in Waterborough, York Co. ME. She was born on 21 Jan 1835 in Waterborough, York Co. ME. She died of cancer of the uterus on 14 Feb 1896 in Waterboro, York Co. ME. Here's a photograph of her.
A note written by him to his wife reads as follows- "I want you to come to Boston when you come write to me the day you shall Satert [Start?] from Ames I will meet you at the Depot. I will write you again next week. I shall Dyreet [?] to North Hempton N.H.E. Linnie E. Cook. I shall send you some money. Good By Dearest wife hoping to see you soon. C. W. Cook"
A York County Deed (vol. 234 p. 185) details the sale of land by Edward Lafayette of Waterboro to Charles W. Cook "of said Waterboro, gentleman," on 11 Oct 1853. A second deed record (v. 237, pp. 239-240) indicates Charles W. Cook, of Waterborough, York Co. sold this parcel of land to Porter Gilman of Hollis on 21 Sep 1854. A third deed record (v. 250 p. 386) indicates Charles W. Cook "of Waterboro, gentleman" purchased land from Ivory Earle on 7 Jun 1855. A fourth deed record (vol. 253 p. 378) indicates Charles W. Cook, "yeoman of Waterboro" sold land to Charles B. Mills on 2 May 1857. Yet another deed record (v. 256 pp. 131-132) indicates Porter Gilman sold land to Charles W. Cook of Waterborough on 3 Dec 1857.
An 1856 map of Waterboro, York Co. ME has a house designated as "Chas. Cook" in North Waterboro, south east and across the old Portland road from a house marked "T. Earl." This corresponds with the order of families in the 1860 census for Waterborough, York Co. ME. We have located the foundations of both houses. At the COOK homestead we were able to find the remains of what appears to be a half cellar, an old well, and a retaining wall. The 1860 census suggests his father Hezekiah was living in the same area and may have built this house.
A "Charles Cook" age 28 is listed as a farm hand in the home of Reuben Hill in Waterboro, according to the York Co. 1860 Census. This is curious both because he is listed as a bachelor and is indicated as a farm hand rather than the owner of his own homestead (as depicted on the 1856 map for Waterborough. The above reference to Boston suggests he and his family may have migrated from Waterborough for a time.
Charles W. Cook and his family appear in the 1870 census for Parsonsfield, York Co. ME. He is listed as 40 years old, a teamster, born in New Hampshire. His wife Belinda is listed as 36 years old, keeping house and born in Maine. Their son Charles Cook is identified as 10 years old, at school and born in Maine.
Another land deed record from York County (v. 323 p. 497) indicates Charles W. Cook of Parsonsfield, York Co. ME sold land in Waterborough to [his brothers] Joseph B. COOK of Lanesville, Essex Co. MA and Henry H. COOK and his wife Sarah of Boston, Suffolk Co. MA on 1 Feb 1871.
Belinda Cook (age 44) is present in the 1880 census for Waterboro, York Co. ME. She is identified as "keeping house" and living with son Charley H. Cook.
A Record of Assessment of Taxes for Town of Waterborough 1893 includes the following entry: "Mrs. Charles W. Cook: building and land where she resides on north side of road leading from Limerick to Portland. 4 acres. Real estate value: $125. Personal estate value: $46. Cow: $20. Two year old: $15. Swine: $8. Sheep: $3. [This would be the property we looked at near Edgecomb's Bridge]" [Comments in brackets from Linda Hanscom]
The Cook homestead is described in a quit-claim deed from Joseph A. Hobbs to Belinda Cook on 3 Nov 1891 as follows- "a certain parcel of land situated in Waterborough York County Maine and bounded as follows Beginning at a stake and stones on the westerly side of the brook crossing the road leading to Limerick to Portland known as the James & Thomas Earle land a d then run Southwesterly by said Thomas Earle land thirty rods to a small tree spotted thence on a line parallel with Ezra Fluents land fifty three rods and eight links thence North easterly thirty rods to said Fluents land thence by said Fluents land to place begun at containing ten acres Meaning to convey the lot deeded to me by Joseph B. Cook of Lanesville Essex County State of Mass by his warranty deed dated June 4th A.D. 1890."
A warranty deed (dated 7 Sep 1895) from Belinda E. Cook to her son Charles H. Cook describes her property in Waterboro as follows- "a certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situated in said Waterboro and bounded and described as follows viz.- beginning at the junction of the road leading from Swetts Hotel to Limerick and from Edgecombs Bridge to Alfred and running then e by said Edgecombs bridge road 6 rods to a stone thence South East by a stone wall to land of C. W. Smith thence by said Smith land and of Annie Gareys land to the Limerick road thence by said road to point begun at containing 5 acres more or less. Also another parcel of land situated in said Waterboro and being the same parcel conveyed to me by Joseph A. Hobbs by deed and being known as the Cook Homestead containing 9 acres more or less. Reserving to Hosea M. Cook the right to a home on the above property during his natural life."
OBITUARY: "[Died] In Waterboro, Feb. 14, Belinda Cook, aged 61 years, 24 days." (Found among obituaries from the Biddeford Daily Journal)
Charles Washington COOK and Belinda Ellen FLUENT had the following children:
29 i. Charles Herbert7 COOK
In a Record of Assessment of Taxes for Town of Waterborough 1893: "Hosea Cook: $3 poll tax only. [This would be the property we looked at near Edgecomb's Bridge]" [Comments in brackets from Linda Hanscom]. I imagine he was living at his sister-in-law Belinda Fluent Cook's house (Old Fluent Homestead), as he signed a quit-claim deed in 1905 to Charles Herbert Cook relinquishing his right to reside on the site.
Hosea M. Cook appears in the 1900 census for Waterboro, York Co. ME. He is listed as 65 years old, living alone, born in Maine, the son of parents both born in Maine, and a farmer.
Death Certificate: "Place of Death Hollis Maine;Date of Death Jan 10 1918. age 85 17 days. BP Waterboro Maine;Dec 24 1832;Male,white married;Father Uriah[as was written] BP Waterboro maine.Mother Eliza French BP Effingham NH.Cause of Death Valvular Heart disease;senility and arteriosclerosis. Place of Burial Hollis Tomb.Jan 13 1918. Physician AG Wiley Bar Mills." (partial transcript of Death Certificate of Hosea Cook, Maine State Archives, found by Diann Tonneson.)
Hosea M. COOK and Abbie GILPATRICK had one child:
30 i.Annie L.7 COOK. (b 1869 d 6 Mar 1945)
She married Edwin WEST, son of William WEST and Susan BEAN, on 26 Jun 1859 in Hollis, York Co. ME. He was born ca. 1828 in ME.
A record of the publication on 19 Jun 1859 of her intention to marry appears in Town of Hollis, Records of Marriages and Intentions 1820-1852,: "Mr. Edwin West of Hollis and Miss Elizabeth Cook of Waterborough enter their intentions of marriage. Certified at said Hollis this twenty fifth day of June 1859. Attest Henry K. Bradbury, Town Clerk."
A record of their marriage appears in Town of Hollis, Records of Marriages and Intentions 1820-1852,: "Clerk's Office Sept. 12th A.D. 1859. This is to certify that Mr. Edwin West of Hollis and Miss Elizabeth Cook of Waterborough both in the county of York and the state of Maine were joined in marriage at said Hollis agreeable to the laws of said state on the twenty sixth day of June one thousand eight hundred and fifty nine. By Me Yates Rogers, Justice of the Peace. A True copy of the original. Attest R. E. Eaton, Town Clerk."
Edwin (age 33, farmer) and Elizabeth A. nee Cook West (age 18) appear in the 1860 census for Hollis, York Co. ME. The entry includes a child named "Haren" [Henry] aged 1/2 year, Susan West aged 63, Charles W. West aged 28, Ellen, aged 12, and Josephine, age 6. The 1870 census for Hollis, York Co. ME includes an entry for Edwin West (age 43, farmer), his wife Elizabeth (age 34, keeping house) and a son Henry (age 10).
A "Lizzie Cook" aged 25 appears in the 1870 census entry for Hosea M. Cook. Waterboro, York Co. ME along with a son named "Samuel" aged 6. "Elizabeth A. Cook" [37] and "Samuel R. Cook" [16] also appear in the 1880 entry for Hosea and his family in the census for Waterborough, York Co. ME. In this 1880 census entry, Elizabeth is identified as Hosea M. Cook's sister and divorced. I note also that there is a record of Edwin W. West marrying Mary E. Campbell on 29 Mar 1873. In 1880 Henry West appears with his father in the Hollis, York Co. census.
Elizabeth nee COOK and her husband Edwin WEST had two children:
i. Henry 6 WEST (b 1860) ii. Samuel R.6 COOK (b 1864).
Henry married Sarah LANE, daughter of Richard and Sarah Lane, on 10 Sep 1870 in Boston, Suffolk Co. MA. She was born ca. 1848 in Boston, Suffolk Co. MA. After Henry's death, she appears with her surviving son in the 1880 census for Boston, Suffolk Co. MA and also the 1900 census for Medford city, Middlesex Co. MA. Henry H. COOK and his wife Sarah LANE had two children:
i. Henry 6 COOK (b 1871 d 29 Dec 1874 in Boston, Suffolk Co. MA) ii. George Henry6 COOK (b 20 Dec 1875 in Boston, Suffolk Co. MA).
26. Bella6 COOK (Joseph Brown6, Hezekiah5, Hezekiah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). Bella Cook was born ca. 1854 in Massachusetts. In the 1870 census entry for his father mentioned above he is identified as a fisherman; and in the 1880, a sailor.
Charles married Mary Elizabeth MILLS, daughter of James MILLS & Dorcus WEBBER, on 1 Jan 1893 in Hollis, York Co. ME. She was born on 15 Nov 1859 in Waterborough, York Co. ME. She died of a malignant disease of the stomach on 1 Jun 1924 in Gorham, Cumberland Co. ME and was buried on 3 Jun 1924 in Eastern Cemetary, Gorham, Cumberland Co. ME. Mary Elizabeth Mills, aka. Lizzie was an amateur Poet and a housekeeper. Information about her ancestry is available here. Here's a photograph of Charles and his wife taken at Gorham, ME.
MARRIAGE - "In Hollis, Jan. 1 [1893], by Rev. E. A. Porter, Charlie H. Cook and Mary L. Mills, both of Waterboro." The actual record names their parents and also indicates both were 33 years old and of Waterborough, York Co. ME. Both fathers are listed as farmers.
Charles and Lizzy moved to So. Boston, Suffolk Co. MA shortly after the birth of their daughter Orivelle. He appears as an enty in several Boston City Directories published from 1900-1920. Lizzy published several of her poems and short stories in a South Boston newspaper. One of her poems commemorates the 120th anniversary of the founding of Waterboro ME and was written for the Waterboro Club of So. Boston. In another poem she writes about attending school in an old yellow school house in Limerick. A third poem commemorates marchers in the Women's Suffrage Movement. They returned to Maine ca. 1919, and appear in the 1920 census for Gorham, Cumberland Co. ME.
A 1923 Registration Certificate for Hunters and Fishermen in the State of Maine describes him as follows- "By virtue of this license _Charles H. Cook_ of _Gorham_, County of _Cum [berland]_ Age _65_ Weight _150_ lbs Height _5'6"_ Complexion _dark_ Nationality _American_ is hereby permitted to hunt and fish in the State of Maine..."
OBITUARY - "MRS. CHARLES H. COOK. Gorham, June 1.-Mrs. Mary Lizzie Cook died early this morning at her home on School Street after an illness of several months. She was born in Waterboro, the daughter of James and Dorcas (Webber) Mills, and was one of three daughters, and also one of sixty grandchildren. Her paternal grandfather served in the Revolutionary War. Previous to her marriage to Charles H. Cook and for many years after, she lived in her native town and received her education in the public schools there and at Newfield and Limerick. After living in Boston for more than twenty years, Mr. and Mrs. Cook came to Gorham in 1919. Two children were born to them, but the daughter died when a small child. A son, Ralph Mills Cook, lives in New York City. A sister, the last of her family, Mrs. Ivory S. McDaniel, resides on Church Street. Although not a member of any church, Mrs. Cook lived a consistent Christian life and was a great reader. Possessing a literary mind she wrote many short stories and poems." (Portland Press Herald 2 Jun 1924, p. 3) DEATHS "COOK- In Gorham, June 1, Lizzie M. Cook, aged 64 years, 6 months, 17 days. Funeral Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, standard time, at her late residence on School Street. Interment in family lot in Eastern Cemetery, Gorham." (Portland Press Herald 3 Jun 1924, p. 2) "FUNERAL OF MRS. COOK. Gorham, June 3.-Funeral services for Mrs. Charles H. Cook took place at the home on School Street this afternoon. The Rev. W. Stanley Carne of the First Parish church officiated and was a member of the Harmony male quartet that sang two hymns, "The City Four-square," and "Sometime We'll Understand." Interment was in the Eastern Cemetery and the bearers were: William P. Kimball, Charles C. Shaw, Ernest C. Brown, and Fred Getchell. Among those from out of town were: Mr. and Mrs. William Webber and son; Miss Goodwin and Miss Mamie Gould of Waterboro; Mrs. Louise Bradbury, Mrs. George Bradbury and Miss Floy Johnston of Hollis; Mrs. Vina Roberts and Miss Nellie Chadbourne of Waterboro; Mrs. L. P. Thompson of Somersworth, N. H.; Mr. and Mrs. John W. Carle of Dorchester, Mass., and Mr. and Mrs. Ralph M. Cook of New York."(Portland Press Herald 4 Jun 1924, p. 3)
After death of wife, Charles went to live with his son Ralph Mills in St. Paul where he worked as a nightwatchman and lived in a separate house. He then moved with his son and daughter-in-law in Menands, Albany Co. NY. According to his death certificate, he became a resident at the Home for Aged Men about seven years before his death, i.e. ca. 1938.
Charles became member of the Harmony Lodge #38 of the Free & Accepted Masons of Maine in Gorham Maine on 21 Jan 1937. We also have three additional cards membership cards, one establishing that he paid his dues for 1939 and two for 1940.
FUNERAL NOTICE - "COOK - On Sunday June 10, 1945 at the Home for Aged Men, Menands. Charles H. Cook, father of Ralph M. Cook. Funeral services at the Tebbutt Memorial Chapel, 176 State St., Tuesday morning at 10:30 o'clock. Friends may call at the chapel Monday evening." (The Knickerbocker News, Albany N. Y. Monday June 11, 1945; p. B-7, no accompanying obituary). 2ND NOTICE "COOK-On Sunday, June 10, 1945, at the Home for Aged Men, Menands, Charles H. Cook, Funeral Services at the Tebutt Memorial Chapel, 176 State Street. Announcement of the time later." (The Times Union, Albany, N.Y. Monday, June 11, 1945, p. 13, no obituary or further notice appears during the subsequent week.)
Text of a letter from Geneva McDaniel Stiehl (Fanny McDaniel's daughter) to Ralph M. Cook upon news that his father had died (26 Jun 1945) "I have heard from you indirectly-from Gorham- and I know you all are now through another hard experience. Your father was certainly a very good father to you. I think he understood so many of your problems and tried to help you. He always said he and you were very close. How nice now to have that to think about. He was certainly a very kind uncle. I have only the most pleasant memories of him and I think of him as he was in his early working days in Boston he was a brave soldier going out each day, working hard for his little family. Now his last days were peaceful and you have been most faithful to him. I [chanced ?] to hear that you are over-working. Must you? I'm afraid you may find it does not pay. I'd love to see you, Laura and Beverly Ann- We should manage a meeting somehow. Much love to you all. Geneva [McDaniel Stiehl] Ralph sends regards and sympathy."
They had the following children:
31 i. Ralph Mills8 COOK ii. Oriville Verna8 COOK. She was born on 24 Dec 1898 in Hollis, York Co. ME. She died of a liver disease on 3 May 1901 in Boston, Suffolk Co. MA. She is buried in the Eastern Cemetery, Gorham, Cumberland Co. ME.
Annie L. COOK and Charles W. GERRY had fourteen children (Sallie A., Audley G., Joseph B., Clyde Wilfred, Jennie R., Guy O., Queen B., Garredd, Garrald C., Forest N., Perl Keith, Gineva and Cora A.).
31. Ralph Mills8 COOK (Charles Herbert7, Charles Washington6, Hezekiah5, Hezekiah4, Hezekiah3, John2, John1). He was born on 11 Mar 1894 at his grandfather James Mills Homestead in Waterborough, York Co. ME. He died of a heart attack on 5 Dec 1960 in Menands, Albany Co., NY and was buried on 9 Dec 1960 in Memory's Garden, Colonie, Albany Co., NY. He studied at the Wharton School Of Business, Boston, Suffolk Co. MA. He initially worked as a clerk for Studebaker in Boston, Suffolk Co. MA. He was transferred to their plant in New York City and later became an automobile parts buyer for Montgomery Ward in St. Paul, MN and also Menands, Albany Co. NY. He and his wife maintained a large victory garden during World War II. Here's a photograph of him.
"South Hollis, August 2, 1903. Dear Mother- Geneva and I got some cherries but I do not eat only one or two at a time. I am having a good time down here and think my chickens are too and antie just said taht they ought to have some milk. Day before yesterday I went over to Uncle Eds and and Aunt Manda wanted me to feed the bossie the bossie would suck my fingers in the milk. I have milk a whole cow two or three times. I have reaped hay for Uncle Ed and pitched on hay for Uncle Ide! I ate with grammie this morning. It is raining now. Well good bye. Your loving son, Ralph Cook"
"July 9, 1905 Dear Mother- Auntie wants you to go and see the old lady. Tell papa to save Steve. I am getting along well. We got the old wagon over the fence into the pasture by taking the two front wheels off. We have set the trap for a rabbit. I got my bag the 5 day. I sent things over to Fred by grammie she said he was glad to get the collars, and thought he hadn't had any before. I have been riding horseback while Uncle Ide was cultivating. I went over to Aunt Mandes and got my best cloths for I left the over there the day I come. We got of letting the old trap stay there and getting nothing so we took it home. When I was over to Auntie Mandys she gave us six cents and I wnet down to the spring and got some cold water and she made some lemonade. Then we went up where the old school house used to be and got some sand for auntie to scrub the cook room floor. Mr. J. Bradbury was over here he brought with him a spear of grass that was 5 feet tall. Mr. Foss was over too. Grammie is over to Knights. Cookie"
At 5 went to Boston, at 7 went to Tuckerman School, Lincoln Grammar School, according to an autobiographical note written on 28 Sep 1908. He states he was attending the Mechanic Arts High School at the time, and writes "I have always read books and the Youth's companion. I like Horatio Alger's books. I also have a liking for any kind of machinery. I like stories of boys who have to make their own way in the world and who are honest. I like printing. I have had seven or eight printing presses."
He was a member of the St. Paul's Lodge, South Boston of the Masons 1906-7, and a member of their Order of Essences in 1916 (attended meeting Oct 8, 1919). He is listed as a clerk in several Boston City Directories (1917-1920). He then moved to New York City, and is included in a boarding house entry for the 1920 census for Manhatten, living on 57th street between 9th and 10th avenues, and an automobile salesman.
He married Laura Adell BREITKREUTZ, daughter of Carl Frederick William BREITKREUTZ & Elmira Dora YOUNG, on 24 Nov 1920 in Adams Memorial Church, Manhattan, New York City, NY. She was born on 27 Oct 1886 in Lake Mills, Jefferson Co., WI. She was baptized on Jan 1897 at the Moravian Church, Lake Mills, Jefferson Co. WI. She died of cerebral thrombosis on 15 Nov 1973 in Harding Nursing Home, Waterville, Oneida Co., NY and was buried on 19 Nov 1973 in Memory's Garden, Colonie, Albany Co., NY. She attended the University of Wisconsin for one year, and worked as a bank teller while living in New York City. Here's a photograph of her. Here's another taken later, and a close up of her.
HOW THEY MET: Ruby Mae Breitkreutz Graffunder writes "As for Uncle Ralph, he worked as a salesman for Studebaker Auto Co. in New York City. Why Aunt Laura went to NYC is a mystery to me but that's where she met Uncle Ralph. When Studebaker went out of business, Uncle Ralph ended up in St. Paul working for Montgomery Ward Co. When MW & Co. built a place in Menands, Uncle Ralph was transferred there. I don't really know much more about him. He was a wonderful person with a nice sense of humor and was forever correcting my grammar." His daughter, Beverly Anne COOK recalls that Ralph and Laura roomed in the same apartment building, with the male and female tenants segregated.
According to Ruby Mae Breitkreutz Graffunder, Ralph came to work for Montgomery Wards in St. Paul, MN after Studebaker in NY City went out of business in 1924; she also recalls that he left St. Paul for Menands, NY when Montgomery Wards opened its new plant there and offered him a pay raise if he would consent to a transfer. (letters to Dave Rudge 11/28/95; 11/12/95).
On 22 Oct 1949 Ralph completed 25 years of service with Montgomery Ward & Company as a Service Merchandiser of Divisions 61 and 64 (Buyer of auto accessories). He was presented with a gold (Buren) watch (we still have) inscribed as follows- "PRESENTED TO RALPH M. COOK IN APPRECIATION OF TWENTY FIVE YEARS OF CONTINUOUS SERVICE TO MONTGOMERY WARD 10-22-24 10-22-49." He retired in March 1959.
Here's a photograph of Ralph Mills and Laura Adell nee BREITKREUTZ COOK taken just before their daughter, Beverly Anne COOK's wedding. Here's a photograph of the happy couple.
OBITUARY - "Plan Rites Friday for Ralph Cook. Ralph M. Cook, 66, of 3 Irving Pl., Menands, who retired as a buyer of auto accessories for Montgomery Ward & Co., Menands in March of 1959, died yesterday at his residence after a brief illness. Mr. Cook served with Montgomery Ward & Co. for more than 35 years, coming to Menands from the company's store in St. Paul, Minn., when Montgomery Ward & Co. opened their Menands facility. When Mr. Cook completed 25 years of service for the company in 1949, he was presented with a gold watch and a certificate of distinguished service. When Mr. Cook retired, he was honored at a testimonial dinner at which company officials praised his work and many years of service. Mr. Cook was born in Waterboro, Maine and educated in Maine schools. He was a member of the Bethany Presbyterian Church in Menands. Surviving are his widow, Laura A. Breitkreutz Cook; one daughter, Mrs. William J. Rudge of Liverpool; two grandchildren. The funeral will be held Friday at 2 p.m. from the funeral home of J. Gregory Nealon & Son, 611 4th Ave. Watervliet, with Rev. Charles Folmsby, pastor of the Bethany Presbyterian Church officiating at the committal services. Interment will be in Memory's Garden, Colonie." (December 6, 1960) Second Obituary "COOK -- In Menands at his residence, 3 Irving Place, Dec. 5, 1960, Ralph M. Cook, husband of Laura A. Breitkreutz, father of Mrs. William J. Budge of Liverpool, N. Y. Also survived by two grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Funeral from the funeral home of J. Gregory Nealon & Son, 611 4th Ave. Watervliet, Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Friends are invited and may call Wednesday and Thursday. Internment Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, contributions American Heart Fund." Third Obituary "Relative of O. A. Wodkes Dies in Albany, New York. Ralph M. Cook, Albany, N. Y. passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday. Mr. Cook was the husband of the former Laura Breitkreutz, who spent her childhood days in Lake Mills. Mrs. Cook is a sister of Mrs. O. A. Wodke. The deceased had been associated with Montgomery Ward and Company in Albany, New York, for many years and had retired two years ago. He is survived by his widow, one daughter, Mrs. William Rudge III, and two grandchildren of Liverpool, N.Y."
Laura lived alone for a few years, then lived with her daughter's family before a brief stay in a nursing home.
OBITUARY - "Mrs. Laura Cook CLINTON--Mrs. Laura A. Cook, 80 [sic] of 35 Mulberry St., formerly of Menands, the mother of Mrs. William (Beverly) Rudge III, died yesterday in the Harding Nursing Home, Waterville, after a brief illness. She was born in Wisconsin, the daughter of William and Elmira Young Breitkreutz, attended Wisconsin schools and later the University of Wisconsin. In New York City in 1921, she married Ralph M. Cook. The couple resided in New York City for a few years and in Menands for more than 40 years. Mr. Cook died in 1960. Mrs. Cook had resided here with her daughter, Mrs. Rudge, for the past three years. She was a Protestant, and a member of the OES in Albany. Surviving besides her daughter are two sisters, Mrs. Frances Wodke, of Lake Mills, Wis., and Mrs. Dorothy Watson, of Duluth, Minn. The funeral will be held at 10 Monday from the Bowen Funeral Home, 97 Old Louden Rd., Latham, with burial in Memory Gardens, Colony. Calling hours are from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Sunday in the Bowen Funeral Home. Local arrangements are by the Owens Funeral Home." (16 Nov 1973 Utica Daily Press, p. 23; essentially the same obituary appears in 16 Nov 1973 Utica Observer Dispatch, p. A8 and 21 Nov 1973 Clinton Courier, p. 4); 4th OBITUARY - "Laura Cook: Ex-Resident Of Menands. CLINTON, N.Y. - Mrs. Laura A. Cook, 80, formerly of Menands, died Thursday at the Harding Nursing Home, Waterville, following a brief illness. Widow of Ralph M. Cook, she was born in Wisconsin, was educated in Wisconsin schools, and attended the University of Wisconsin. She resided in Menands until three years ago when she moved to Clinton to reside with her daughter, Mrs. William Rudge III. A member of the Albany Chapter, OES, Mrs. Cook is also survived by two sisters, Mrs. Frances Wodke of Lake Mills, Wis. and Mrs. Dorothy Watson of Duluth, Minn., as well as four grandchildren. The funeral will be held Monday 10 a.m. from the Bowen Funeral Home, 97 Old Loudon Road, Latham, with Rev. Leland Harrison, rector of the Grace Episcopal Church, Waterford, officiating. Burial will be in Memory's Garden, Colonie."; 5th OBITUARY - "COOK - Entered into rest, November 15, 1973, at Waterville, N.Y., Laura A. Cook, formerly of Menands, wife of Ralph M. Cook; mother of Mrs. William (Beverly) Rudge III of Clinton, N.Y.; sister of Frances Wodke, Lake Mills, Wis., and Mrs. Dorothy Watson of Duluth, Minn. Also survived by 4 grandchildren. Funeral services from the Bowen Funeral Home, 97 Old Loudon Road, Latham, on Monday morning at 10 o'clock. Friends are invited and may call on Sunday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9. Interment Memory's Garden, Colonie."; 6th OBITUARY - "Sister Dies in New York State. Mrs. Ora Wodke, this city, has received word of the death of her sister, Mrs. Laura Adell Cook, Albany, New York. Mrs. Cook died November 15, following a stroke. Funeral services were held in Albany on Monday (November 19), with interment in Memorial Cemetery, Albany. Survivors include one daughter, Beverly Ann Rudge III and four grandchildren, Clinton, New York; two sisters, Mrs. Wodke, and Mrs. Dorothy Watson, Duluth, Minnesota; several nieces and nephews. Her husband, Ralph Cook, preceded her in death by 10 years. Also preceding her in death were two sisters, Vera, of Springfield, Illinois; Addie, Duluth, Minnesota, and a brother, Alfred Breitkreutz, who lived for many years at Groton, South Dakota. Mrs. Cook was born in the Town of Lake Mills, and after moving away from this community, was a frequent summer visitor with her sister and friends in Lake Mills."
Ralph Mills COOK and Laura Adell BREITKREUTZ had children.
If you recognize any of the names here and would like to contact me, here's my email address: david.rudge@wmich.edu.
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Last updated on 10 Jun 2018