THE PATON FAMILY HISTORY (Ayrshire Scotland to USA)

Dear Reader,

The below information stated in "The Paton Family History" in regard to "our first ancestors" has been found to be partly incorrect.  The information stated pertains to those who are descendants of Capt. John Paton the Covenanter, however The Ancestors of John Paton b. 1776 in Newmilns and his wife Ann Allan, the parents those listed in this Paton History of are not direct descendants of Captain John Paton. 

Patons in Bankhouse farm near Kilmarnock beginning with Andrew Paton (unknown dates), father of:
Andrew Paton b. abt. 1669 (Marion Bor(d)land - aunt of Jean Bor(d)land) father of:
Alexander Paton b. 1707 (Jean Bor(d)land), father of :
Alexander Paton b. 1747 (Janet Wilson) father of only child
John Paton b. 1776 (Ann Allan)

NOTE:  The birth records of three of John and Marion Bor(d)land Paton's children are found on Scotland's People and make it very clear that John b. 1701, Andrew b. 1704 and Alexander b. 1707 are sons of a 'first marriage'. Found in other records is a child Andrew b. abt 1699 - died in infancy and William Paton who was found through other sources.  

The son of Capt. John Paton was also a John Paton b. about 1662 in Meadowhead or Airtnock Farm, however this man's wife was Sarah Patterson who died August 1738 which would have been after the births of the children of the John Paton who married Marion Bor(d)land. Therefore, there was no second marriage of the John Paton son of Capt. John Paton as others suggest and indeed there were two (2) different John Patons.

John Paton who married Marion Bor(d)land lived in Bankhouse and before them there was an Andrew Paton, presumably his father.  The families of Andrew Paton in Bankhouse and Capt John Paton in Meadowhead were related as the senior Patons were signers on early WILLs.  The confusion arose back in the late 1800's when a researcher without proof declared that Alexander Paton b. 1707 in Bankhouse was a grandson of Capt. John Paton because he took over the Farm of Blackbyres in the Harshawmuir Estate which was on the same estate as Meadowhead and Airtnock which were farmed by Capt. John Paton and his ancestors and descendants. 

Scotland's People today providing today's researchers with the birth records that disproved that theory.

Lyn R. Schwartz - 2015

PATON   FAMILY   HISTORY

  Including “Brief History” by Annie A. PATON, and Letters, Poems, and Memoirs by others.

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FAMILY  MOTTO:

“KEEP  A  CLEAN  FRONT”

David Paton.

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Compiled by John H. PATON,

Almont, Michigan.

1905.

This document was scanned from the 1989 transcription by Lucile Thomas MARSHALL of the original edition. She is the wife of William W. MARSHALL who is the son of Muriel Joy Paton MARSHALL, granddaughter of John H. PATON.

Correspondence between members of the Paton family, memoirs of individual family members and details of family reunions contained in pages 65-223 were not scanned. Perhaps, one day.

The opportunity was taken to add by way of footnotes; comments, additional information and the odd correction. Sources for these footnotes are contained within brackets, (…), following the footnote. Some formatting changes have been made, but the over riding intention has been to follow the 1989 edition.

Reference is made in the Appendix by both John H Paton and Lucile Marshall to the illustrations that were included in the original 1905 edition but were not able to be incorporated in the 1989 edition. A list of illustrations and their approximate position in the text, where they occurred in the 1905 publication, is included in the Appendix. These illustrations will be available for download on the Paton Family website at MyFamily.com.

DESCENDANTS OF DAVID PATON OF ALMONT, MICH.

(Part of Foreword from Hubert Paton’s Book)[1]

The first ancestor, of whom any information is known, was a Mathew Paton, born about 1555 in Warnockland, Scotland, died prior to 1632, married Janet (or Jonet) Muir. They had two children, Thomas and Janet. Janet, born about 1580, at Warnockland, married a John Paton, probably a distant cousin of hers. They had six children: Marion, Agnes, Thomas, Robert, Alexander and John.

John was born about 1604[2], at Meadowhead, Fenwick Parish, Scotland. He was the famous Captain John Paton, Soldier-covenantor in the religious warfare of that time. He was finally captured, imprisoned at Edinburgh, and sentenced to death. Friends interceded in his behalf and a reprieve was granted by the King of England, but the officer in charge at the prison held up the papers until after the execution on 9 May 1684. Captain John Paton married Janet Lindsay, 25 June 1656. She was born in Airnock[3], Scotland. About 1666, John married the second time to Janet Miller, who probably was born in Englesham[4], Scotland. There was at least one child by the first marriage, for there is a death recorded on 24 May 1659. There were six or more children by the second marriage: David, Mary, Janet, John, one daughter born in 1670, and one more daughter born after that date, when Captain John was more than 66 years old.

We trace our descent through the second son, John, of whom very little is known. He was married, had a son, Alexander, and died in Fenwick Parish, Scotland. The birth-date of Alexander is not known, but he married Jean Bordland, 8 July 1740, at Kilmarnock, Scotland. Jean was the daughter of James B. Bordland. Alexander died about 1756. He and Jean had 10 children: James (1st), William, James (2nd), John, Janet, Alexander Jr,. another son, and three more children.

Alexander Paton, Jr., born 1746(7), married first to Janet Wilson, 15 Feb. 1776, at Loudoun Parish, Scotland. She was born, 1740, in Fenwick Parish, and died 2 Oct. 1796. They had one child, John, baptised 24 Dec. 1776. After Janet’s death, Alexander married for the second time but her name is not known. There were no children by this marriage. Alexander died 15 April 1844 at Underwood, Scotland.

John, the only child of his parents, was born in 1776, died 15 Aug. 1844, at Galston, Scotland. He married 1 July 1803 to Ann Allan. She was born 27 Feb. 1780 and died 14 Dec. 1855 at Colchester, Canada. They had thirteen children: Elizabeth, Alexander, Andrew, John, James, David, William, Janet (1st), Robert, Allan, Thomas, Janet (2nd), and Annie. Four of these children moved to America with their families.

Memoir of

CAPTAIN JOHN PATON

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There are many martyr memories associated with the church and graveyard of Fenwick, not the least interesting of which is the history of that brave soldier for the Covenant, Captain John Paton, of Meadowhead, in the parish of Fenwick (Scotland). In early life he followed the farm occupation, but left it for a soldier’s life, and served with distinction under Gustavus Adolphus, and afterward at Marston Moor. He then returned home, and was called out with the militia of his native parish to resist Montrose, and was present at the battle of Kilsyth, August 15, 1645. He was at the battle of Worcester, September 3, 1651, where he fought for King Charles II, with his usual ardor, against Cromwell. At the close of the war he returned home to Scotland, and resumed the pursuits of his youth by taking the farm of Meadowhead, where he continued to reside for the rest of his days. He attended the ministry of William Guthrie, in Fenwick Church, and was chosen one of its elders.

When in 1666, the Covenanters took up arms in self-defense (sic), he could not resist the invitation of his friends to join them, and commanded a party of horse from Loudoun, Fenwick, and other places. He was at the rising at Pentland, and was among the last to quit the field. He was ever after a marked man. The winter following Pentland, he and twenty others had a narrow escape at Lochgoin. He was not at Drumclog, but soon after joined them with a number of horsemen, and was present at the fatal defeat of Bothwell Bridge, after which he was proclaimed a rebel, and a price put upon his head. Many a narrow escape he had before his final capture. He was then an old man, and a soldier’s life, with its vicissitudes and hardships, had told upon his age; so he was easily taken by a party of five soldiers who surprised him in the house of Robert Howie, in Floak, in the parish of Mearns. He had no arms, and was unable to cope with them single-handed. He was first taken to Kilmarnock, his captors supposing him to be some aged minister, but on the way they found out the prize they had secured. He was thence taken to Edinburgh, tried on April 16, 1684, condemned on his own confession of being at Bothwell, and sentenced to be hanged at the Grassmarket on the 23rd, but reprieved till the 9th of May. He was buried in the corner of Greyfriars’ Churchyard, Edinburgh, where the dust of so many martyrs lie. In Fenwick Churchyard, his fellow parishioners erected a monument to his memory after the Revolution. This memorial having fallen down some years ago, a more imposing structure has been raised, on which is inscribed:

SACRED

To the memory of

Captain JOHN PATON, late in Meadowhead,

of this parish, who suffered martyrdom

in the Grassmarket, Edinburgh,

May 9, 1684

He was an honour to his Country:

        On the Continent, at Pentland, Drumclog, and Bothwell, his heroic conduct truly evinced   the gallant officer, brave soldier, and true    patriot. In social and domestic life he was           an ornament, a pious Christian, and a faithful witness for truth, in opposition to the encroachments of tyrannical and despotic power in Church and State.

Who Antichrist do thus oppose,

           And for truth’s cause their lives lay down;

Will get the victory o’er their foes,

           And gain life’s everlasting crown.

The mortal remains of Captain Paton sleep     amid the dust of kindred martyrs in the Greyfriars’ Churchyard, Edinburgh.

Near this is the burying-place of his family                                       and descendants,

                                   – Glasgow Paper, 1870

BRIEF  HISTORY

of the family of

DAVID PATON

by

ANNIE PATON, DAUGHTER OF DAVID

August 30, 1902

Our father, David Paton, was born in Ayrshire, near Galston, Scotland, in 1812. He was one of a family of thirteen children. On account of their limited circumstances, he received very little education in school. At the age of nine he was working for himself and paying for his board at his father’s table. His first occupation was that of filling spools for weavers. A few years later, he was a farm-servant; and it was during his spare minutes while thus employed, at the age of twenty, that he taught himself to read by going through the Bible in course[5].

At the age of twenty-one he married Christina Woodburn, who was born near Galston. They were about the same age. He was following, at the time of his marriage, the trade of a weaver, and they began housekeeping in a one-roomed garret in a thatched cottage of Galston. The income of the family, while here, was eked out by the industry of his wife, who embroidered and “clipped” all her spare minutes.

In a few years he opened a meat-market, and moved into larger quarters. In this business he succeeded financially, so that before sailing to America, in 1852, he had a large patronage, a house of his own, and Twelve Hundred Dollars in the bank.[6]

A few years before this time, the first mother in the family had died, and her sister, Elizabeth Woodburn, had taken her place. The first child of each marriage had died in infancy, and there remained Christina, David, John, William, Annie, Alexander and Andrew, the children who came to Michigan with their parents in 1852.

Our grandmother, Ann Allan Paton, came with the family to America, lived a few years, and now lies buried in Canada, on the shore of Lake Erie. At the same time came father’s sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Paton Hamilton (familiarly known as “Aunty Betty”) and her husband, John Hamilton.

The family left Galston on the eighth day of May, and sailed from Greenock on the tenth, and after a seven weeks’ voyage, in a sailing ship[7], landed in New York, and a few days later arrived at Amherstburg, in Canada, at the home of Uncle John, father’s brother, who had been in this country for some years.

Having letters to deliver to the Braidwoods, from their friends in Galston, our father soon found his way to Almont, and to the farm, now occupied by his sons William and James, of which he took possession in the Spring of 1853, and which was the home of the family until mother’s death, May 8, 1895. Here were born Elizabeth, Janet, Jane, Margaret, Agnes, Robert, Gertrude[8], James, Allan, Grace and Thomas; and here father went away, March 7, 1878, at the age of sixty-five. The only deaths that have occurred among his children since the arrival in the New World are Agnes, who died in August, 1866, at the age of seven years, and Christina Paton Millikin, who died in October, 1868, at the age of thirty-two years.

Nine souls came to Michigan in 1852, and today there are more than one hundred of them and their posterity. According to Darwin, if the population doubles once in twenty-five years, in a thousand years, there would not be standing room on the face of the earth. We have doubled more than three times in fifty years. Conclusion: we will soon be the whole thing, and it will not be long before we will have to rent a larger planet for our reunion.

The foregoing is a very brief outline of the events connected with our family life, the merely incidental of which is fading from our minds, and has already begun to be viewed in perspective. What has been written is, according to historians, the formal history, which has to do mainly with dates and facts. These are of little importance, if not indicative of an idea. So it will be of more interest and importance to look for the idea that has been an integrating factor, unifying the family, and making possible so large a gathering of the kin as is here.[9]

Looking back two hundred years, when a man’s education is said to begin, we find that very little of it was received in schools, properly so called. Our mothers’ ancestors were tillers of the soil, employed on the Loudoun Estate, as laborers, for at least one century. There the family went to school for generations, learning lessons of patience, perseverance, diligence and loyalty. They were plain, plodding people, but such as it takes to make bed-rock foundations of society. Their life during those years was favorable to the growth of the faith in God that is theirs who work for daily bread and have nothing left for the morrow.

In the seventeenth century we find father’s ancestors tenants on the farm of Meadowhead, in Fenwickshire[10]. They were also Elders in the Presbyterian Church. Their material surroundings gave them few worldly things on which to set their hearts, and it must only have been by the greatest diligence and perseverance that they wrested a living from the soil of those moors. They showed themselves to be men of conviction, who were loyal to the inner voice divine. Where duty called they went.

The following incident will show of what stuff they were made: When the Presbyterians were forbidden, on pain of death, to administer the rite of baptism to children, twenty-two were brought in secret to the house of Capt. John Paton and there baptized. Poor as this man was, he voluntarily went to the help of Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden, who was leading the armies of northern Europe to fight for the cause of Protestantism; neither did his poverty prevent his leading a company of his own countrymen, who were declared outlaws for resisting the introduction of the Episcopal Service into Scotland. Love of principle, devotion to duty, to country, to God, was the stamp on their diplomas.

The spirit of these men passed into their descendants, and these traditions have without doubt given bent to the life of the family, as seen from time to time in its history. It was love of independence and individual liberty that led our father to seek a home in the far West, when he was prospering in business at home. It was that his family might have the free, vigorous life of the country, that he chose the farm in preference to the city of Chicago, where there seemed to be a good opening for him on coming to America. To be, rather than to have, was his motto. The word that came to him before he left Scotland was like that which came to Abraham: “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, unto a land that I will show thee And can not we who are here today testify to the fact that the promise followed: “I will bless thee, and make thy name great, and thou shalt be a blessing So Providence decided that Old Michigan should have us, and to what purpose we have seen.

The education which the family received on the old farm was deeply religious, somewhat patriarchal, tending to develop strong individuality and exclusiveness; but when the mating time came, the family crawled out of its shell, in forming unions with the other families of the neighborhood.[11]

The District School may be said to have furnished the education of the family. We have, however, one graduate of Oberlin and Yale, three of the State Normal School[12], and one of the University of Michigan.

It is not healthful to look at ourselves, nor to consider the past, save for the inspiration and encouragement for the future. For this purpose we will now give a look backward, and while doing so, we will keep in mind that it is what we do for men, and not what we get from them, that constitutes true success – true greatness.

In the first place, there are four or five good farms, many acres of which have been cleared of forest, and which are now yearly providing the necessaries of life for many people. Then during the civil war three sons were given to fight for the preservation of the Union and the liberty of the slaves. Eight years of military service were given to the country. Eleven of the family have taught in the Public Schools, with an average of about eight years each. There are two ministers of the Gospel, who have given nearly fifty years of service; and another member of the family has just begun the practice of medicine. Nine husbands have been provided for others’ daughters, seven wives for their sons, fathers for twenty-seven children, and mothers for thirty-three.

But for us to say that we have done all this would be to liken ourselves to the man who said, “Didn’t we do it?” after his wife had killed a bear. No one can do his work without all the others whom God has made. And we may be grateful to our Heavenly Father if he has allowed us to help in any way the noble company of men and women with whom we have been united – the McKails, the Millikins, the Wilsons, the Pierces, the Nowlins, Uncle John’s family, the Cottrells, the Rossiters, the Rollinses, the Hopkins, the Trevarrows, the Stephens and the Pickets.

If you will pardon me for stepping out of the sphere of historian into that of prophet, I will just mention a vision that has passed before me, of this lawnfull of boys and girls, grown to manhood and womanhood, all great in the sense that they are walking truly among the common things of life, faithful in all the relations of life, whose motto is to be, to do, to put into life, rather than to get out of it, ever remembering to fulfill (sic) the promise of old, “And thou shalt be a blessing”.

A. A. Paton

PATON FAMILY HISTORY

by John Paton, son of David Paton

CHAPTER I

Partly a Reminiscence

Heartily appreciating the success of our sister Annie in giving us the “Brief History” of the family, it has been suggested that something “more to follow” might be interesting to the present generation.

I have been able to learn very little of our mothers’ side of the family. Grandfather Woodburn’s given name was William. Grandmother’s maiden name was Forguson. I do not know the date of their birth, marriage nor death. Beside the two of the family whom our father married (Christina and Elizabeth) I remember Uncle Robert Woodburn and Aunt Annie Woodburn Caldwell. I have heard father speak of James, who died when a young man.

Aunt Annie Caldwell had several children, of whom I remember Christina, Mary, Annie and Allan. She died near the time that our mother, Christina, died. I saw her the day before she passed away. I saw her two daughters, Christina and Annie, when I was in Galston in 1897. Christina died in 1902. Annie still lives in Galston and I think is the only one now living. Some of Mary’s children and grandchildren are somewhere in the United States. I think they came to Illinois and Iowa.

Uncle Robert Woodburn had two children whom I knew, William and Jeannie. William made us a visit in this country, in 1867. He returned to his father’s home and died there. Uncle Robert died several years ago at an advanced age. Our Cousin Jeannie Woodburn married Stewart Semple, and had a number of children. I saw her, her husband and several sons when in Galston in 1897. She died on December 8, 1902, in her sixty-fifth year. Her son William is now Manager of a Cooperative Store in Portobello, Scotland. One of his brothers is engaged in the same kind of work.

On father’s side of the family, our Grandfather’s name was John. According to “Descendants of Alexander Paton”, written by our Cousin James R. Paton, of Liverpool, he was the only child of his parents, Alexander Paton of Loudoun parish, and Janet Wilson of Fenwick parish. I find no record of his birthday; but the Fenwick register shows that his parents were married at Kilmarnock on March 8, 1776; and the Loudoun register shows that he was “baptized” at the meeting-house on December 24, 1776. So he was probably born about the middle of December, 1776. The family tradition is that he was the Great-Great-Grandson of Captain John Paton (the Soldier-Covenanter) of Meadowhead, in the Parish of Fenwick, but the vouchers of this have not been found. In “The Scots Worthies”, it speaks of the death of one of his children, and of his committing “his wife and six small children” to the Lord, just before his death. In the “Descendants of Alexander Paton”, it is said: “The Captain had a son, and a John Paton succeeded him in Meadowhead.” - (John Howie’s “Life,” p. 34, Baillie Court Book of Cunningham, July 22, 1695).[13]

John G. Paton, who has been a Missionary to New Hebrides for nearly half a century, also traces his descent from Captain John Paton, who was born at Meadowhead, in the parish of Fenwick. I do not find the date of his birth. He was brought up on the farm, but when a young man he enlisted, and went to the wars in Germany, and fought under Gustavus Adolphus, king of Sweden, and for some heroic achievement, was made Captain. Afterward he returned to Scotland, and at intervals, between 1645 and 1684, did heroic work in the struggle of the Covenanters against the encroachments of Episcopacy. Of course, he was counted a rebel against the English government, and was arrested in August 1684 and executed at Edinburgh on May 9, 1685[14]. In “Scots Worthies”, it is said, he was courageous and magnanimous, and that “He lived a hero, and died a martyr.”

There seems to be no obscurity in the evidence that our Grandfather was the Grandson of Alexander Paton, who is on record as tenant of “Blackbyres”, which was a part of the barony of Hareshawmuir, in the parish of Fenwick, but a short distance from Meadowhead, where Captain John Paton was born. The Kilmarnock marriage register speaks of this Alexander Paton as the “son of the late John Paton in Finnick parish” and shows his marriage to Jean Bordland, daughter of James Bordland, in Fosterhill, on Tuesday, July 8, 1740. He probably became the tenant of Blackbyres soon after this marriage. In the record he first appears as tenant in 1746, but at that time more than two years’ rent was due. A rent-book of this tenant (in Jas. R. Paton’s possession) shows that he paid rent from 1750 to 1756, that his widow paid the rent for the three following years, and his heirs, for four years, from 1761 to 1764.[15]

The Rev. William Paton (our Uncle) is reported as having “declared that Alexander had ten children, the eldest of whom, called John (named for his paternal Grandfather), went to India as a soldier, and died there.” Others were named:

(1) Alexander, (2) James, (3) Janet, and (4) ------------

This Alexander is our Great-Grandfather, before mentioned, who married Janet Wilson. (The other members of that family had many descendants, whose history we will not attempt to follow. We no doubt have many distant relatives who are not known as such.) This Janet Wilson (our Great-Grandmother) was born in 1740, and died October 2, 1796, age 56. She was descended from Baillie John Brown, of Fenwick. His armchair, dated 1676, is in possession of Alexander Paton, in Galston, son of our Uncle Andrew. (When I saw it in 1897, I got the impression that it was thought to be Captain John Paton’s chair.)

Our Great-Grandfather was born in 1746 or 1747[16], and, as before stated, was married March 8, 1776. Our Cousin Jas. R. Paton has a Bible with his autograph – “Alexander Paton, 17--”. For a time he was a maltster in Newmilns, where the “Black Bull Inn” afterwards stood, and later, in a house at the top of the Greenholm, where the bridge was built. He then took the farm of Burnhead, near Galston and later moved to Underwood near the Holms farm, where he died April 15, 1816, aged 69.

We have seen that our Grandfather was the only child of his parents, and was probably born in December 1776. He was married on July 1, 1803, to Ann Allan. For nine or ten years they lived in the above-named Burnhead, where (according to the record in hand) six of their children were born – Elisabeth, Alexander, Andrew, John, James and David. They then moved to the dairy-farm of Standalane, near Galston where were born seven children – William, Janet, Robert, Allan, Thomas, Janet and Annie. In 1825 they moved to Titchfield Street, Galston. He was an adherent of the Anti Burgher church in Newmilns. He died on August 15, 1844 (aged 67) and was buried in the Galston churchyard. Grandmother was born February 27, 1780. She came with us to America in 1852. Some of us remember her very well. She was a vigorous woman till near the end of her life. Several times she travelled alone (of her own choice) between our home in Michigan and Uncle John’s home in Canada. At the latter place, at Colchester, not far from Amherstburg, she died on December 14, 1855, (aged 75) and was buried in the Colchester Cemetery, by Lake Erie.

I remember seeing, in their home in Galston, the portraits of Grandfather and Grandmother, photographs of which are now in my possession, through the kindness of our Cousin Andrew B. Paton of Crosby, England. These photographs are much like the portraits. After I received them, I called in our aged friend, John McKail, to see them. He was the only one here who could tell me whether Grandfather’s picture is good, as he alone could well remember seeing him. After looking at the picture a few moments, he exclaimed, “It’s yer Gran’faither Pawton.” He had not seen him for over fifty years. He went on to say, “It luks gae like him. It has a meek luk. Yer Gran’mither had mair force in some w’ys. She keepit the siller. Whatever he earned, at the en’ o’ the week, when he got his p’y, he’d bring it a’ to your Gran’mither, and put it in her lap. But he was a gran’ man; aye, John Pawton was a gran’man. He was a man of gude principles. He was a very releegious man, and he was a great reader of the Bible and a great thinker. He used to be called to visit the sick and comfort the dying like a minister. Man, it was worth while to hear him pray.”

The following is a copy of a letter written by Uncle William to Uncle John and Aunt Margaret in reference to the death of our Grandfather. For several reasons it seems worthy of a place in this history.

Galston, August 22, 1844

Dear Brother and Sister: -

It is now nearly twelve months since you left Bonnyhill, the scene of many pleasing recollections; and it may seem strange that this should be my first letter to you. I could easily give you a variety of reasons, but it will perhaps be as well to omit them, seeing that your first American letter to me was just received a few days ago. I shall regard it as the beginning of our new correspondence, which I hope will be regular from this time. I think we might write a letter each every three months, and would propose that we do so, and if you agree to this, you may signify the same by sending an answer soon.

I might look back to the period of your leaving this country, and follow you across the Atlantic, in the varied scenes you described in your journal; and I might have referred to the deep interest felt on your behalf, and the many prayers presented at the throne of grace for you, in secret, and at the family altars, many of which have been answered. But I will leave these at present, and come to that which is freshest on my mind, and has lately filled most of my thoughts.

On Sabbath morning, the 11th, instant, our father was seized with Influenza, which began by a fit of trembling, which continued for about an hour, and after the former symptoms followed, such as breathlessness, loss of appetite, thirst, etc. I was from home on Sabbath and Monday, and it was Tuesday the 13th, before I knew of his illness. I went and saw him, and he appeared to be very weak, but his mind was calm and collected, and his hopes of recovery were not strong. On Wednesday morning I saw him again, and he did not appear to be much worse. Dr. Hamilton called about one o’clock and told them that he was drawing near his latter end. David soon told me, and I hastened to his bedside. [Note that David was then but 31, and William 29, years old.] He could not converse much at a time, but told me to remain for some time, and he then ordered his books and papers to be brought, and I looked over them, and he wrote a little. I found his affairs in good order. He had set his house in order, ready to depart. And, what is far better, his hope was founded on the atonement of Jesus. Nothing but this would satisfy in the dying hour.

David and I sat up with him on Wednesday evening. Before mother retired to rest we engaged in singing the 23rd psalm, which was a great favorite of his. We then read part of the 8th chapter of Romans, (he said of the first verse, that it was “unco quid”), and part of 2. Cor. v., and then knelt in united prayer on his behalf. He then called me near, and gave me a passage for the Sabbath School children, viz, Proverbs viii, 17, “They that seek me early shall find me.” I was to illustrate it as I thought proper. He made some suitable observations on seeking God early[17].

During the night, from about 2 o’clock, his mind began to wander a little; and the scenes in which he had lately mingled, floated in his mind; but he was easily satisfied with explanations. He was at Ardrossan for a week, in company with mother, and John Hamilton and Elisabeth; and then he was at Glasgow for a few days during the meeting of the Highland and Agricultural Society. He was exhibiting improved sickle handles, the same that he used himself – with grooved circles, etc. You will remember it, I dare say, but he got no prize, though they were much approved. He returned on the Friday previous to his being taken ill. On Saturday he had a visit from Mr. Menzies, and a number of friends from Kilmarnock, and was remarkably well. He had not been so well for five months before. I received your letter on the same day that he died, and read it to him, about the middle of the day (15th), but he was in a very feeble state, and had great difficulty in breathing and speaking. I put several questions to him, and he gave distinct answers. For example, I asked if he still loved the Saviour, and he answered, “Yes”. I asked, “Would you like to be with Jesus?” He said, “Yes”, and then added, “It will not be long.”

He then became rather dull, and did not speak much for some time. I had to retire for a while. During my absence, Mr. Bruce and Mr. Mathewson (I think two ministers) visited him, but he could say little to them. Before I returned, he said to mother, “Did you hear that?” She asked, “What?” and he said, “An angel was saying, ‘Come’.” When I returned, he spoke to me, and I asked if he remembered the 23rd psalm. I began to repeat it, and he repeated most of the verses at intervals. He repeated the first two lines of the last verse, viz,

                        “Goodness and mercy all my life,

                           Shall surely follow me.”

I repeated the third line, and he added thus.

                        “My life shall ever be.”

And I think these were the last words he uttered on earth. He gradually became weaker; the phlegm ceased to come up; his hands grew feeble and cold; the eyes became stationary and glazed; the pulse became imperceptible; and about half past eight o’clock, in the evening, hegently fell asleep. Alexander, Andrew, David, Annie, Mother and I were present, besides a number of relatives and friends, and with mingled emotions of joy and grief, saw him breathe his last. Hugh Cuthbertson repeated these words: “Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace.” How appropriate! It was a peaceful scene – a spirit taking its flight to heaven, and angels, ministering spirits to this heir of salvation – while the body was sleeping in the embrace of death, but destined to rise in glory, incorruption and strength.

The corpse was soon dressed, and laid in the room bed, while we again joined in mutual worship around the domestic altar. We sung part of the 53rd paraphrase, read a part of the word of God, in 1 Thess. iv. 13, to the end, and made known our requests by prayer and thanksgiving to God, and then retired to rest.

On the following day we got letters printed, intimating his death, and larger ones, as invitations to the funeral. Findlay Wylie warned both town and country people. It took him two days. The funeral took place on Tuesday, the 20th instant, at 2 o’clock, p.m. It was the largest that has been witnessed here for a long time. Your brothers, including John Hamilton and four grandchildren – two of Alexander’s and two of Andrew’s sons – carried the bier. Upwards of thirty relatives and friends returned to tea; and in the evening the latter will was read, and the books and pamphlets divided, except those mother wished to keep. Stackhouse’s History of the Bible, in six volumes, has fallen to your lot, also a number of pamphlets. The latter are of little value. His body clothes were also divided; but as a ninth part would have been so little, it was thought unnecessary to send any of them to America. Alexander, Andrew and James are executors, being the three oldest in Britain.

Mother is bearing the severe trial with much patience; but I fear she will feel it much more after a time, when Elisabeth has returned to Strathaven, etc.

The mournings which mother and Annie have got are of fine Coburg. Annie’s bonnet is of the same, and mother’s of rich crape.

[At that time grandmother was sixty-four, and Annie nineteen, years of age.]

You are aware that the house and other effects are left for mother’s use as long as she lives. There is not much money in the bank. I think after the Saving Bank money is paid, there will be about Thirty Pounds for her use. The debts are very small.

I think I have thus given you the most of the particulars. If anything is omitted, I shall be ready to answer it in answer to your next letter.

I may mention here that an inventory of all my father’s effects, including money, furniture and debts, must be taken, and sworn to before the Commisary at Ayr, in order to [make] the payment of duty to the government.

I may now inform you that my wife gave birth to a fine daughter on the 3rd of June last. She was tolerably well during the first two weeks, but after that she was seized with severe laxness in the bowels, which continued for about two weeks, causing extreme pain, and reducing the body to a skeleton, almost. She became so low that her friends had nearly given up hope of her recovery. We got her conveyed to Kilmarnock, where she had every attention paid her, and Dr. Hood’s attendance, and she soon walked a little, and was ordered to go to Troon [at the sea-shore], where she staid four weeks, and has greatly recovered. She came home on Monday, the 19th instant [the day before Grandfather’s funeral]. She is still troubled with a cough, and pain in the chest. But the child, whom we call Agness, is very healthy and good.

[Note: William’s wife did not live long after Agness’ birth, and Agness stayed with Uncle John Hamilton and Auntie Bettie who were still in Scotland, and later because she did not get along with her stepmother, came to America to live with her uncle and aunt when she was in her early teens, and she and her father never saw each other again.]

I have been very well employed during the whole of this season. It has been the best since I began business. [He was then a tailor.]

Alexander will send a letter along with this one.

The Galston Evangelical Union are about to commence a new chapel, to hold about 400 sitters. We have now about 114 members in the church. The Academy is now sitting in Clerk’s Lane, under Professor Morrison. A church has been formed in Glasgow, after a series of revival meetings. They were anxious to get Morrison to be a Pastor among them, but referred the case to the Clerk’s Lane Church. A full meeting was called, and the case considered: but a vote being taken, it was agreed that he should remain in Kilmarnock. I fear you will not get a preacher sent out for some time. You must be zealous yourself.

I must conclude. Wishing you every blessing in Christ Jesus, for time and eternity, and sending my regards to Janet [Aunt Margaret’s sister] and the children, and servants, in which Elisabeth and all the friends join, I remain your very affectionate brother,

William Paton

Concerning this letter, (which was sent by Mr. Menzies) Cousin Margaret (Paton) Golden says: “I am so glad it has been kept all these years, so that we who are now as old or older than he was then may realize what kind of man our Grandfather was. And his children praying for and comforting him - is it not a beautiful picture?”[18]

CHAPTER II

FAMILY  OF  JOHN  AND  ANN  ALLAN  PATON[19]

Elizabeth[20] Paton

1.         Elizabeth – familiarly known among us as "Auntie Bettie" – was born in Scotland on

March 28,1804. (An old record, in the handwriting of her husband, says she was born on March 28, 1805, and this is the record on her tombstone. But this seems to bring her birth too near to that of her brother Alexander. Cousin James says the date of her birth is registered, so that it is probably correct.) She married John F. Hamilton, of Strathaven, on August 25, 1825.

They came with us (David Paton & family) to Michigan in 1852. They first bought twenty acres of the farm that father bought, two miles east of Almont, but later father bought it back, and they bought forty acres of land two miles east and one mile north of Almont, Mich. They were connected with the Presbyterian church in the Scotch Settlement, southeast of Almont, for considerable time, and later with the Congregational church in Almont. They had no children. (Cousin Agnes[21] ‑ Uncle William's oldest daughter ‑ came to America and lived with them many years[22].) Auntie died on the farm on March 1, 1875. "Uncle Hamilton" was born on August 24, 1805, and died in Almont, Mich., on January 23, 1892. Both were buried in the cemetery at the Presbyterian church in the Scotch Settlement.

Alexander Paton

2.        Alexander was born on Friday, November 22, 1805. He was married on February 26, 1830, to Mary Brown, eldest daughter of Andrew Brown, of Newmilns, and Mary Morton. They lived for a time in Galston, a long time in Newmilns, for some years in Glasgow[23], and afterward went to England. They had eight children ‑ John Brown, Andrew Brown, Mary Morton, Alexander Allan, Annie Davy Swain, James Richmond, David Thomas and Agness Richmond. They were, at least while in Scotland, adherents of the Presbyterian church. "Uncle Sandy”, as we called him, made us a visit in this country, in 1873 or 1874. His wife was born on December 23, 1805. They both died at Crosby, Lancashire, England, at the home of their son Andrew ‑ she on Thursday, February 18, 1875 ‑ he on November 10[24], 1880 ‑ and were buried in the parish churchyard, Newmilns, in the grave of the Richmonds.

Andrew Paton

3.        Andrew was born on Friday, July 24, 1807 (some of his family say 1808[25]). He was married twice. His first wife was Helen Cunningham. By her there were eleven children ‑ John, Alexander, Mary Ann, Helen, Elizabeth, Marion, Janet, William, Ann, Andrew and Robert. Five of these are still living. Their mother died of the Cholera, late in 1848 or early in 1849 – probably the latter. His second wife was Eliza Young. By her there was one child, Annie. Their home was in Galston. I think Uncle Andrew was connected with what was known as the "Morrisonian" movement, which afterward developed into the "Evangelical Union", and, later, had become a part of the Congregational body in Scotland. For many years, especially after 1852, he was a "Flesher”. [According to the American Heritage Dictionary a flesher is one who removes flesh from hides[26].] He died on March 28, 1870.

John Paton

4.         John was born on April 21, 1809. He was married to Margaret Wilson, of "Templeton Burn" farm, near Kilmarnock, on April 8, 1834. They lived for a time on the "Bonnie Hill" Farm, near Kilmarnock. In 1843 they came to Canada. They first settled on the "Rose Bank" farm, near Amherstburg. Part of the time they lived at ''Onslow”, a neighboring farm, and later moved to Colchester. In 1864, they bought and settled upon a farm in the township of Armada, Michigan. Uncle John was quite an ideal farmer, and did some good work, even though he did not always make it pay financially. In Canada, (perhaps in Scotland), they were connected with the "Evangelical Union" church, but after coming to Armada, they were in the Congregational church. Those who knew them need not be told of the generous sociality and kindness of Uncle John and Aunt Margaret. They had nine children ‑ Margaret, John, Annie, Jean, James W., Alex W., John A., Jessie and William. Four of these were born in Scotland, and the rest, in Canada. Uncle John died on the farm, on August 2, 1887, and was buried in a cemetery in the township of Richmond, about a mile and a half east of Armada. Aunt Margaret was born on August 28, 1811, and died at the home of her daughter Annie, in Cheboygan, Michigan, on May 17, 1894. She was buried beside her husband.

James Paton

5.        James was born on April 1, 1811. He was married to Robina Osborne. They had two daughters[27]. He died in Scotland, on April 28, 1853. Soon after, his widow and children[28] came to America, and settled in Salt Lake City, Utah.

David Paton

6.         David was born on November 18, 1812. In the "Brief History”, written by sister Annie, we learned something of his early life, and that he was married at or near the age of twenty-one, to Christina (or Christian[29]) Woodburn. They were married in 1833. They had seven children ‑ John, Christina, David, John H., William Woodburn, Annie Allan and Alexander. Our mother was born in 1812, and died of the Cholera, on January 21, 1849, when she and father were both about thirty-six years of age. Our father, having a number of little children to care for, very soon married again. His second wife was Elizabeth Woodburn, a younger sister of his first wife. In 1852, in his fortieth year, he brought his family to Michigan, to fulfill his ambition to be a farmer, and if possible to make farmers of all his sons. He succeeded in this purpose concerning himself, and was fairly successful with his sons – four of them now being farmers. He probably became reconciled to the waywardness of those who had an inclination to be something else.

By the second marriage, there were thirteen children ‑ James, Andrew, Elizabeth, Janet, Jean, Margaret Ann, Agnes, Robert, Mary Gertrude, James Woodburn, Allan Hamilton, Grace and Thomas. Our father was naturally sociable, and loved company; and it may be truly said that he was never happier than when surrounded by his children. He died on the farm, two miles east of Almont, on March 7, 1878, and was buried in the cemetery at the Presbyterian church, in the Scotch Settlement.

The first time all the sixteen children, then and now living, were all together was at father's funeral. Four years later they came together again and had a family photograph taken.

The second mother was born on July 3, 1825, and died at the home of our sister Grace, in Laurium, Michigan, on May 8, 1895, and was brought home and buried by the side of our father. Originally, our parents were Presbyterians, but later united with the "Disciples of Christ" and, after coming to Michigan in March 1858, they united with the Almont Baptist church.

William Paton

7.        William was born on December 18, 1814. He was married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth Laughland. They had one daughter ‑ Agness. His second wife was Jean Cunningham. By this marriage there are six[30] children ‑ John, Alice, William, Bethiah[31], Annie and Beatrice. Uncle William was first a tailor and afterward a minister of the gospel. He began his ministry in Scotland, probably in connection with the "Evangelical Union" movement. Afterward he moved to England, and was connected with the "Independent" church. He was an enthusiastic worker, and gave many years of devoted service to the cause of the Master. He died at the family home in Nottingham, in 1888. There his widow still lives – the only surviving Aunt.

Janet Paton

8.        Janet was born on Wednesday, April 23, 1817, and died on July 2, 1821.

Robert Paton

9.         Robert was born on Thursday, July 8, 1819 in Galston. Scotland. He was married to Mary Ann Todd in 1842. She was born in Glasgow, Scotland, of Irish parents in 1819. She died on February 26, 1880. By this marriage there were eight children – Agnes, John, Janet, Robert, Samuel, Samuel, Mary Anne and Annie[32].

In March, 1870, Uncle Robert came to Michigan, and staid with us only about six months. We all learned to love him. He had been in some kind of business in Glasgow, Scotland. He had an ambition to become a farmer, but was not able to carry this idea into effect. He sailed for Glasgow in the Steamer Cambria, which was wrecked near the coast of Ireland, on October 19, 1870, and all on board (except one woman[33]) were drowned. He was a broad-minded man, was like a Cyclopedia of knowledge, and a fountain of loving kindness. We deplored this disaster, but took comfort in the assurance, dear to him, that nothing good can ever be totally lost.

The following was written by Robert's son John[34].

My mother survived my father about ten years. She was a devoted wife and mother, and did her duty to us. For a few years before she died, my brother Robert – who immediately after father's death had started in business as a Potato Merchant – took charge of mother and the younger children. By his success in business, he was enabled to make mother's declining years a period of ease and comfort, which she richly deserved; and he often expressed to me his regret that father was not spared to us to share in the increased prosperity of the family.

Mother's thrifty disposition was continually brought into requisition in her efforts to bring up her family, and her constant care was to have her home, her husband and her children comfortable and happy. Her happy disposition – always bright and cheerful – helped to make our lives pleasant, so that, like Goldsmith's Clergyman, we were "Passing rich on £40 a year”.

My father learned the shoe-making business, and while yet a young man, came to Glasgow. He worked at his trade there for a few years, and at the age of twenty-three married my mother – Mary Ann Todd. He found the cares of married life pressing on him, and in 1845 he took a situation as Light Porter in the large Drapery Store of Messrs. "Kevan & Buttle”. Shortly after he was advanced as Salesman, which position he occupied for nearly twenty years, when he was appointed Shop-Walker, which position he occupied till he left the Firm in 1870, having been with them twenty-five years.

Like a great majority of the natives of Ayrshire, he was strongly imbued with the belief in the Chartist Programme, and took an active part in the movement. [The chief points in the "People's Charter" were universal suffrage, voting by ballot, annual parliaments, payment of members, equal electoral divisions, and the abolition of property qualification for members. Some of the points, notably household suffrage and voting by ballot, have been accepted by the legislature and are the law of the land. – J.H.P] He was one of the first signers of the Teetotal Pledge in Galston, and ever after, he acted up to the pledge to abstain from all intoxicating drinks. No liquor was ever seen in our house, and his strong advocacy of Temperance assisted his family to follow out his principles, which, I am pleased to say, remains a firmly-rooted habit with us all to this day.

The great longing of his life was to reach America and bring up his family in the free life of that country. I know he envied my Uncle David (his brother) when he sailed for America, and all his life had a strong wish to get out to "The Land of the Free”. I remember quite distinctly my Uncle's departure. He sailed from Glasgow (for Greenock) and spent the previous night in our house. I am not quite sure whether he had two or three children there; but I can picture the scene yet in which I played with my young cousins that evening. On each side was shyness, but before we parted, I had gotten into quite intimate relations with them, and we were great friends at last. I see in my mind's eye Uncle David, big, burly and brave looking, my Aunt and the Children, as they all stood on the floor of our house when bidding us farewell. My mother asked what he would do in the event of the venture not turning out as he would like. I never forgot his answer, that he would be able to take out himself and family, live a year there, and if he found it would not be advisable to remain, he would have enough left to bring them all back again. This, to my small mind, represented untold wealth. From that day forward my father's longing for America increased, but the cares of an ever-increasing family prevented the possibility of realizing his dream. He was always pleased to hear from his friends, and when he learned of their success, he grew keener on the subject than before.

Years went by, and I grew up to manhood. I learned the woodcarving trade. I married at twenty-three years of age. I had a desire to go to America, and finally made up my mind to do so. My father, on hearing of my intention, decided to go with me, with the ideal still before him of living on his own home. Had he been able to go out in his early days, perhaps this object might have been attained, but a life of sedentary habits rendered him unfit for the struggle. He determined, however, to give it a trial, and with that in mind, wrote to his brother David, who replied at once, offering him the hospitality of his home.

We left Glasgow about the middle of March, 1870, and after spending a day or two in Liverpool with his Brother Alexander ("Uncle Sandy”, as he was familiarly called), we sailed in the Cunard Steamer "Java”. On arriving in New York, we stayed with a friend of mine (a Mr. Miller) for a few days, and in the middle of the next week, I took leave of my father at the Railway Station, as he was starting for Michigan.

His arrangement was that he should live with his brother on the farm, and get an insight into the methods of farming, until he would be able to take a farm of his own, and bring mother and the family out. But, alas! for the vanity of human wishes. It appears he was quite unfit for the arduous duties which devolved upon him; and it was not long before I became aware, by the tone of the letters which I received from him, that he realized this. He was loath to acknowledge failure, but I read between the lines, and saw that all the fond illusions of his life were gradually being wrenched away. At last he wrote me that he was compelled to give up the struggle. No one can ever realize what this meant to him; but it was inevitable, and at the end of six months he returned to me in New York.

I shall never forget the change that had taken place in his appearance. Haggard and gray, suffering both mentally and physically, he looked twenty years older than when he left me six months before. My wife and I did our best to make him happy, and I think we succeeded to a great extent, but the sense of failure had sunk deep into his heart.

On the seventh day of October, 1870, he sailed from New York, in the Anchor Line Steamship Cambria. We were all down bidding him goodbye. On the nineteenth, when passing the Coast of Ireland, during a snowstorm, the vessel struck on the Island of Inistrahull, and all on board perished[35].

I need hardly say with what consternation we received the news. At home, in Glasgow, mother and brothers and sisters were impatiently waiting his arrival. It was a terrible shock to us all. I have often wondered what his thoughts were in those awful moments. Within a day's sail of home, and to have his life ended in that sad manner! No friendly hand to soothe him! No goodbye! But in a moment to be cut away from all earthly things! Thus died a good man, a man who, I can safely affirm, did not leave an enemy behind him.

I am pleased that you have given me an opportunity of putting on record a tribute to my father's memory. A more honorable man never existed. His conscientious convictions always guided his actions. He was unselfish, kind and considerate in all his doings and sayings. He was a good husband and a kind father. His name is never mentioned among us without reverence. His struggles to bring up his family were many and arduous, but he never despaired. Had he lived, I am sure his declining years would have been peaceful ones, as all his family would have been only too pleased to do what they could for him.

He was a great reader, and his knowledge of literature would not have disgraced one in a much higher sphere of life. A vigorous Chartist, he longed for the time,

                       "When man to man the world o'er

                         Shall brothers be for a' that.”

I never heard an unseemly word from him; and one of the most potent influences for good in my young days, in keeping me from going wrong, was the thought, "What would my father say?” He was of a very retiring nature; perhaps too much so in this age of bustle; but on looking back, I can only say, it was a beautiful nature. Had he been more aggressive, he might have been more successful; but I like to look on my father as he was. He never complained, but submitted to his destiny with a willing and even cheerful mind.

I think I was more in touch with my father than any of the others, and that I understood him better. It is a pleasure to write about him, even at the risk of becoming tiresome to others; but I know you will look over my partiality, considering all the circumstances.

One of the few proud moments in my father's life was when he won the first prize for the "Best Autobiography of a Working Man's Life”, given by the proprietors of the "Glasgow Commonwealth”, a weekly newspaper. How pleased he was that morning when the Post brought the letter announcing his success; and how glad he was to be able to put the prize (three guineas) in mother's lap.

He sometimes tried his hand at poetry, and while not claiming a seat on Parnassus, his attempts were, at least, not bad. He wrote a few lines on his leaving Michigan, which give an idea of his feelings, and also show his power of expression and suppression. Perhaps you have a copy. If not, I will send you one, if required.

As for all the members of the Family in the list which I sent you, I may say they are all well and doing well. My sister Agnes and her husband are, like myself, getting into the ''sere and yellow”, but are still hale and hearty. Brother Robert is prospering in business, and his family are growing up and promising well. For myself, I am still growing mushrooms, and have secured another very suitable place ‑ a disused Lime Pit, with acres of space under ground, very suitable for the purpose. I was compelled to leave the tunnel in Edinburgh, owing to the presence of a blight which baffled all my efforts to eradicate. I am in good hopes of my new place being free from any danger of blight. My family, as you will see from the list, are gradually getting settled in homes of their own. My son John is still unmarried, and my youngest daughter, Annie, is still with us. You will observe that my daughter Agnes was married in June (1904).

My sister Annie and her husband are back in Glasgow. He has gotten into his old firm again ‑ "Messrs. Mann, Byars & Co.” I hope these few details will be satisfactory. And wishing you all every blessing and prosperity, and with a strong desire to be with you in your happy reunions, I am yours very affectionately,

August 17, 1904                                                           John Paton

[Uncle Robert and Aunt Mary had eight children (instead of five, as stated earlier[36] ‑ Agnes, John, Janet, Robert, Samuel, Samuel, Mary Anne and Annie). They were probably all born in Glasgow, Scotland.]

Allan Paton

10.        Allan was born on Saturday, July 14, 1821, and died on January 8, 1830.

Thomas Paton

11.        Thomas was born on May 11, 1823, and died on October 1, 1831.

Janet Paton

12.        Janet (twin) was born on Sunday, June 5, 1825, and died on April 23, 1826.

Annie Paton

13.       Annie (twin) was born on Sunday, June 5, 1825, and died (unmarried) at her mother's home in Galston, on February 16, 1849.

CHAPTER III

F a m i l y  T r a i t s

-----------------

We have seen that the Paton Family has a strong setting in Presbyterianism, which is so characteristic of the Scotch people. But it is evident that, either by inheritance or environment, probably both, they have done considerable independent thinking, and have not been wholly averse to change. It is noticeable that comparatively few of the older family remained permanently in the Presbyterian church, time-honored and valuable as she has been. It appears probable that what is known as the "Morrisonian" movement, in Scotland, was instrumental in breaking the power of some of the old traditions, and setting them to searching the Scriptures for themselves. If I mistake not, they were all led to believe in a larger and more merciful view of the gospel of Christ than the Calvinism formerly held by the Presbyterians. There has been a tendency also to a more democratic idea of church government.

Auntie Bettie's latest membership was in the Congregational church. I am not sure that Uncles Alexander and Andrew ever left the Presbyterian church, but their ideas of the gospel were at least modified; and we know that their families were well represented in the "Evangelical Union" and "Independent" churches, which are similar to the American Congregational church. Uncle William became a minister, first in the "Evangelical Union," and later, in the "Independent" body. Uncle John was in the "Evangelical Union" for a time, and later, became a Congregationalist. Uncle James accepted some of the teaching of the "Latter Day Saints”, though he was not a believer in polygamy. Uncle Robert was a member of some independent church, and was a decided believer in the final salvation of all. Early in the forties, our father and mother accepted the teaching of the "Disciples of Christ”. So also, a little later, did the second mother. After being several years in Michigan, they united with the Baptist church, with the understanding that they need not endorse their Articles of Faith; and father always advocated the doctrine of "Universal Atonement”, as preached by Mr. Morrison in Scotland. He always pleaded for a large liberty of opinion. Near the end of his life, he told me that he was not without hope that "in the ages to come" all would be reconciled to God.

Uncle William, by letter, and Uncle John, by word of mouth (on his death-bed), assured me that they believed in the final victory of Christ and the salvation of all. The broad, large-hearted, non-sectarian and progressive spirit was evidently planted in the older family, and no doubt it is growing among their descendants.

It has been well said that, "It was love of independence and individual liberty that led our father to seek a home in the far west, when he was prospering in business at home.” He was very democratic in his ideas, and as much so in his religion as in his politics. He wanted others to have the same liberty that he asked for himself. He believed in the great American idea of "government of the people, by the people, and for the people”. He was more of a Cosmopolitan than a Patriot; that is, he believed that the well-being of mankind as a whole was of greater value than the well-being of any particular nation. When he said "the people" he meant all the people. He believed in equal rights for all. Hence he was a most uncompromising opponent of slavery. He was astonished at the anomalous thing that the so-called "Democratic" party in this country should be identified with the pro-slavery cause. He could not understand how the advocates of "personal liberty" could hold to the idea of property in men, simply because the skin of one man was black and that of another, white. It was this contradictory state of things that made him identify himself with the Republican party when it was organized, instead of voting with the Democratic party, even though he was a believer in the Democratic (or Cosmopolitan) idea of free trade. He thought it better to settle the slavery question first. It was his hatred of human slavery that made him even partially consent that his sons should become soldiers for the United States government, when he was decidedly opposed to war. He was a believer in peace, a lover of peace ‑ a believer in ballots, rather than bullets; but he learned to think that the curse of slavery might have to be washed out with blood, as the people seemed determined not to learn the right lesson in any other way.

Our father in his early manhood took a decided stand against the drinking custom of Scotland, and became a radical teetotaler, and remained so as long as he lived. And his temperance principle has had a strong influence in his family.

It has been suggested that the tendency of our father's teaching was to "develop strong individuality and exclusiveness”, and that there came a time when "the family crawled out of its shell”. There may be some truth in this criticism. There is no doubt a good deal of individuality in the family. (This may apply to the whole Paton family.) They all think a good deal of their own opinion, and they nearly always have an opinion and a reason for it. But I think, as a rule, they are willing that others should enjoy the right to do their own thinking, and hold their own opinion. This is why so many can have, and express different views and yet live in peace and meet in harmony. We are all well aware that only living things ever hatch out. For this reason I think it was the life and vigor that came from father's teaching that made the family come "out of its shell”. His teaching tended not to narrowness, but to worldwide sympathy and the love of universal liberty. In the best sense he expected to live in his children, and there are many evidences that this, his earnest wish, is being realized

CHAPTER IV

H i s t o r y   o f   t h e   C o u s i n s

We have seen that our Grandparents had thirteen children ‑ Elizabeth, Alexander, Andrew, John, James, David, William, Janet, Robert, Allan, Thomas, Janet and Annie. Of these, Elizabeth, the two Janets, Allan, Thomas and Annie ‑ all the daughters and two sons ‑ had no offspring. I would be glad to give a more complete history than is now possible of all the descendants of the other seven sons. The want of family records within reach necessarily puts a limit on this work.

A L E X A N D E R’ S   D E S C E N D A N T S

Alexander had eight children ‑ five sons and three daughters ‑ John Brown, Andrew Brown, Mary Morton, Alexander Allan, Annie Davy Swain, James Richmond, David Thomas and Agnes Richmond.

I.  JOHN BROWN PATON was born in Galston[37] on Friday, December 17, 1830. He was baptized on January 8, 1831. He was married on September 14, 1859, to Jessie, third daughter of Wm. P. Paton, of Glasgow, and Mary Evans. He devoted himself early to the Christian ministry. He is on record as "M.A. London, D.D. Glasgow". The family home is in Nottingham, England. He has been prominent in the ministry of the "Independent" body. He founded the "Congregational Institute" in Nottingham, and was its President about one-third of a century. From this position he resigned a few years ago, partly on account of age, and partly on account of his great interest in certain Social Reform movements, claimed his attention and efforts. He made us a visit near the close of the seventies.

John and Jessie Paton had seven children: Carol, Alfred, Lewis, Wm. Paton, Muriel, Mary and Morton. (I write according to the latest information, and without being sure of the exact order.)

(a)        Carol Paton was born on ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[38]. She is married and in 1897 was living in London[39], England.

(b)       Alfred Paton[40] was born on ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[41]. He is not married. For years he was in the cotton business with his Uncle A. B. Paton, in Liverpool. He and his brother Morton have succeeded this Uncle in the business. He has been interested in some philanthropic work.

(c)        Lewis Paton was born August 13, 1863. In 1897 he was not married. He is a successful teacher, and an able and earnest Christian worker. At last word he was head of the University College School, in London, England.

[Note added to original text from 1948 edition of Encyclopedia Britannica:

PATON, JOHN LEWIS ALEXANDER (1863‑1946), British educationalist, was born in Sheffield on Aug. 13, 1863, son of the Rev. J. B. Paton, D.D. In Sept. 1903 he was appointed high master of Manchester grammar school and held the post till July 1924. On his retirement a fund was raised in his name to commemorate his services to the town and district, as well as to the school. Paton was a member of the consultative committee of the Board of Education from 1907 to 1915, and president of the Teachers' guild (1907) and of the Modern Languages association (1911). From 1925 until 1933 he was president of Memorial University college, St. John's, Newfoundland. He died on April 28, 1946, at Beckenham. He published in 1914 a Life of J. B. Paton, and his educational works include: Chapters on the Aims and Practice of Teaching (1896); The Public Schools from Within (1906); The Higher Education of Boys in England (1906); Cambridge Essays on Education (1917); Vocation (1919); as well as a special report for the Board of Education on The Teaching of Classics in Prussian Elementary Schools (1907).]

(d)       William Paton Paton was born on ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  He was engaged in philanthropic work. He was drowned in 1893.

(e)        Muriel Paton

(f)        Mary Paton was born on ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[42].  In 1897 she was not married, and was at home. She is an earnest and faithful worker wherever needed.

(g)        Morton Paton[43] was born on ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  He is not married. For years he was in the cotton business with his Uncle A. B. Paton, in Liverpool. He and his brother Alfred have succeeded this Uncle in the business. He too has been interested in philanthropic work.

II.  ANDREW BROWN PATON was born in Newmilns, on Friday, April 12, 1833. He was baptized on April 28, 1833. He is on record as "B. A. London". He is not married. I have heard that he intended to go into the gospel ministry, but gave it up on account of ill health. He has visited us in America. He has been quite successful in the cotton business from which he has retired in favor of his nephews Alfred and Morton. Quite a number of years ago, he bought the Hareshawmuir estate, which is closely connected with Meadowhead, the former home of Captain John Paton, in Fenwickshire[44], Scotland. On that historic ground I spent about a week in August, 1897. That is his summer resort. His home is in Crosby, near Liverpool, England[45].

III.  MARY MORTON PATON was born in Newmilns, on Wednesday, July 22, 1835. She was baptized on August 2, 1835. She did not marry. She died at Blackburn on May 23, 1861, and was buried in the Newmilns churchyard.

IV.  ALEXANDER ALLAN PATON was born in Newmilns, Scotland, on Friday, December 22, 1837. He was baptized on January 14, 1838. In 1861 he came to America, and soon found employment in a business house in Detroit, Michigan. He was married on November 14, 1864, to Marie[46], daughter of John Crowshaw, of Detroit. Later, he became a cotton merchant, and has been successful. He has helped several others into this business. On September 1, 1903, he retired from the business in favor of his son Allan. For a time the family lived in Detroit, later, for a part of each year, in the South[47], and finally moved to England. Their home is "Oneida", Sefton Park, Liverpool[48]. His wife died in 1896. He is a member of the Sefton Park Presbyterian Church, of which Dr. Watson (Ian MacLaren) has long been pastor. Though having retired from business, Allan is not idle. He is a member of the Liverpool City Council, and Vice Chairman of the British Cotton Growing Association. He and nearly all his family have been in the United States this year. (1904)

Allan and Marie had six children, (all born in the United States): Mary, Edith, Alice, Allan, Arthur and Katherine.

(a)        Mary Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[49].  She is not married. After her mother's death, she took her place in the care of the home. She has crossed the Atlantic more than twenty times.

(b)       Edith Paton McPherson was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[50].  She was married in 1899 to Cluny McPherson, and went with him to South Africa, where they still live. Her husband is a Civil Engineer.

(c)        Alice Paton was born[51] on December 26, 1871. She is not married. She has crossed the Atlantic several times. She has taken lessons in the Conservatory of Music in Ypsilanti, Mich.

(d)       Allan Paton was born[52] in August, 1873. He is not married. He was in the cotton business with his father, but on September 1, 1903, he succeeded his father in the business.

(e)        Arthur Paton was born[53] on March 10, 1875. He studied law, and graduated in 1897. It was thought he was well prepared for his chosen work. But he was taken with a terrible fever, and died on November 11, of that year. He was kind and lovable. He was one of the few who stood on the wharf at Liverpool, waving us farewell, as we sailed away on October 2, 1897.

(f)        Katherine Paton was born on November 11, 1883. She is not married. She has travelled much for one of her years.

V.  ANNIE DAVY SWAIN PATON was born in Newmilns, on Thursday, November 19, 1840. She was baptized on December 13, 1840. She was not married[54]. She died at Crosby, England, on Monday, February 3, 1890, and was buried in the Newmilns churchyard.

VI.  JAMES RICHMOND PATON was born in Newmilns on Monday, May 22, 1843. He was baptized in Newmilns, by the Rev. Mr. Lindsay, of the United Presbyterian church of Glasgow on June 29, 1843. He too visited us in this country. He was married on July 25, 1882, to Fanny Elizabeth, daughter of D. Midgley, of Huddersfield, and Mary Ann Kaye. He too has been successful as a cotton merchant. Their family home is "Brookdale", Grassendale, in Liverpool. To this cousin we are indebted for many of the facts of this history.

James and Fanny have three children: Annie, James Richmond and Alexander Midgley.

VII.  DAVID THOMAS PATON was born in Newmilns, on Monday, November 24, 1845. He was baptized on December 28. 1845. He died on July 25, 1847, and was buried in the Newmilns churchyard. (He was named Thomas after a paternal uncle, who died fourteen years before, at the age of 8.)

VIII.  AGNESS (RICHMOND) PATON was born in Newmilns, on Friday, January 28, 1848. She was baptized on February 12, 1848. She did not marry. She died at Crosby, on Thursday, June 3, 1875, and was buried in the Newmilns churchyard

ANDREW'S DESCENDANTS

Andrew had twelve children: John, Alexander, Mary Ann, Helen, Elizabeth, Marion, Janet, William, Ann, Andrew, Robert and Annie. Six of these are still living: John, Alexander, Mary Ann, Janet, Andrew and Annie.

I.   JOHN PATON ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[55].  He lives in Galston. He has been married twice. His first wife was Martha Cochrane. They were married in 1852[56] and she died in 1856. They had three daughters ‑ Agnes[57], Helen[58] and Martha[59] ‑ who are all living. Agnes married Robert McGee[60] who is dead. Helen also was married. In 1860 John married Janet Robertson[61]. They have had nine children, four sons and five daughters. Two of the sons are dead. John was formerly a weaver, but later in life he has been a "flesher," a son being in the business with him in 1897. They seemed to be doing well. I think he and his family are members of what was called the Evangelical Union church.

II.   ALEXANDER PATON was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[62].  He lives in Galston. His wife's name was Margaret Watson. They were married in July, 1850, and she died March 16, 1902, aged 70 years. Cousin Alex. has been a flesher, and seems to have prospered. He has now retired from business, which is carried on by his son Robert and his son. He has served the public as Bailiff of Galston. He and his family are in the Evangelical Union church. Alexander and Margaret had 13 children: Andrew, Robert, Margaret, Helen, Alexander, Elizabeth, Marion, Janet, John, William, Annie, Agnes and Lizzie.

(a)        Andrew Paton was born in 1851. He has a wife[63] and I think seven[64] children. They live in Auchinleck, Scotland. He is a flesher.

(b)       Robert Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[65] He has a wife[66] and four children, two sons and two daughters[67]. He and a son now carry on the business in Galston from which his father has retired.

(c)        Margaret Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[68]  She is not married, and especially since the death of her mother has had the care of the family home.

(d)       Helen Paton Currie was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[69].  Her husband's name is James Currie. They live in Glasgow.

Alexander[70], Elizabeth[71], Marion[72], William[73] and Annie[74] are dead. Most of them died quite young.

(h)       Janet Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[75].  She is not married. In 1897 she was a teacher in one of the Galston schools.

(i)         John Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[76].  He has been in the United States for several years. He was married in 1900[77]. They live in East St. Louis, Ill. He is in the pork-packing business.

(l)         Agnes Paton ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑ was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[78].  She was married a few years ago[79].

(m)      Lizzie Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[80].  She is not married. In 1897 she was a teacher in one of the Galston schools.

III.   MARY ANN PATON TAYLOR was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[81].  In June 1853[82] she was married to Archibald Taylor. They lived in Galston. He died on May 1, 1903. They had 12 children; eight are living.

IV.   HELEN PATON ALLAN was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[83].  In Sept. 1863 she was married to William Allan. They lived In Galston. They had eight children ‑ four sons and four daughters. Two of the sons and three of the daughters are living. Helen died in April 1900, and her husband died in the next month.

ELIZABETH[84], MARION[85], WILLIAM[86] & ANN[87] all died, probably quite young.

VII.   JANET PATON FINDLAY was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[88].  In June 1863 she was married to John Findlay. They have no children. He is a flesher. For many years their home was in Galston, but now they live in Prestwick.

X.   ANDREW PATON was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[89].  In October 1868 he was married to Helen Cooper. Their home is in Kilmarnock, Scotland. He is a flesher and cattle dealer. Andrew and Helen have seven children: Margaret, Helen, Andrew, Jean, Jessie, Annie and Agnes.

(a)        Margaret Paton Fairlie was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  Her husband's name is Mr. Fairlie ‑ a teacher. They have two children.

(b)       Helen Paton ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑ was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  She is married.

(c)        Andrew Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  He is married, and they have one child. Andrew too is a flesher and cattle dealer ‑ perhaps in company with his father.

(d)       Jean Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  She is not married.

(e)        Jessie Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  She is not married. She is a teacher.

(f)       Annie Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  She is not married. She is a teacher.

(g)      Agnes Paton was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑.  She is not married. She is a singer.

XI.   ROBERT PATON was born ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑[90].  He died in June 1894. He was married twice. His first wife was Jeannie Munroe. They had no children. She died about 1871. In April 1874 he married Annie McClimont. They had seven children ‑ two sons and five daughters ‑ who are all living.

XII.   ANNIE PATON MACFARLANE, the only child by the second marriage, was born in Galston, Scotland, on April 22, 1850, and was married to James Macfarlane on May 6, 1870, who was born on February 25, 1849. In June 1871 they came to America. In 1872 their baby daughter died, and being discouraged, they returned to Scotland. About 1880, through the kind introduction of Uncle Alexander, her husband obtained a position with the firm of G. & W. Morton, Shoe Dealers in Manchester, England, and remained with them about six years. But always having a desire to return to America, they left the Old Country in May 1886, and came to Philadelphia, Pa., where, in the following year, they started in the shoe business in a small way on their own account. They have been quite successful, and now have a very nice shoe store on Frankford Ave. They are all members of the Presbyterian Church. James and Annie Paton Macfarland (sic) had four children: Elizabeth Young, William, Helen and James Paton ‑ all born in Scotland.

(a)        Elizabeth Young Macfarlane was born February 17, 1871, and died on August 13, 1872.

(b)       William Macfarlane was born February 28, 1873. He is not married, and is at home in the shoe business with his father.

(c)        Helen Macfarlane was born on September 16, 1875. At this writing (July 4, 1904) she is not married. A little later ‑ but I must not tell in advance. She is still at home with her parents.

(d)       James Paton Macfarlane was born on February 6, 1878. He is employed in a wholesale shoe store in Philadelphia. On Feb. 11, 1903 he was married to Alma Letitia Hart. She is 24 years old. James and Alma have one child: Marian Alma.

(1)        Marian Alma Macfarlane, granddaughter of James and Annie Paton Macfarlane, was born March 30, 1904.

J O H N’ S   D E S C E N D A N T S

Since the brief history of Uncle John, which is on page 15, was printed, I have learned some facts about Margaret Wilson, his wife ‑ familiarly known among us as "Aunt Margaret" ‑ and her relations, that will no doubt be interesting to all the Paton Family, and therefore I give them a place here, before giving an account of their descendants.

Margaret Wilson, familiarly known among us as "Aunt Margaret”, the wife of John Paton, was the eldest child of James Wilson and Margaret McSkimming and was born at ‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑ where her parents lived until she was twelve years old. They then moved to Templeton Burn, her father being employed as coachman at that place, and there they remained until after her marriage in 1834. They afterwards moved to another farm; and for many years before their death they managed the farm called Peggyshill, near the birthplace of Burns, on a hill which overlooked the town of Ayr, and commanded a fine view of the sea.

They were both remarkable for their thrift and industry, and the love of order was so highly developed in Margaret's father, that her children were often reminded, by way of precept, how every object was kept in its place in her father's home.

Though not more devoted to ‘the kirk’ than the average Scotchman’s family, they went regularly to divine service, and the parents remained ‘orthodox’ to the end, greatly grieved in later years when Margaret and Janet, their daughters, became worshipers in Dr. Morrison’s church.

Of her mother’s family, comparatively little is recorded. Her mother’s brother, Thomas McSkimming, took part in the battle of Waterloo; and there was a much younger half-sister named Lily, wedded to John Woodburn.  ‘Auntie Lily’ was a great favorite in the Wilson family, a playmate of the elder children.

James Wilson was related through his mother to the Allans of the Atlantic steamship line, his mother, Jean Stevenson, and the mother of Sir Hugh Allan of Montreal being sisters. One of the family, Margaret Paton Golden, of Amherstburg, remembers going, when less than eight years old, to see her grandfather's uncle, Gabriel Stevenson, who lived at the Braehead, Kilmarnock.

Jean Stevenson's wedding ring is a valued possession of one of her descendants in the Paton line today. It is not worn as thin as one would expect, owing to the fact that it was lost in the 'holm' one day when she stooped to admire and pull some fine carrots growing there. Twenty years later, her son James discovered it while plowing, and easily identified it by the letters, J.S., engraved within the band of gold.

The ‘holm’ referred to above was traversed by the ‘Irvine Water’, a stream of no great depth at that point except in times of freshets, as the children easily crossed it on stepping stones. Margaret often entertained her children, and her children's children, by tales of her early youth connected with this stream. One picture that never failed to interest them represented her crossing the stream at the age of twelve, bearing her great-grandmother on her back. This latter was then over a century old.

Her family was remarkable for its longevity, her grandmother McSkimming having lived nearly a hundred years, and then died from the effects of a fall. Her father reached his eighty-ninth year, dying in 1875, and her mother three years later, at the age of ninety.

At that time, six of their eight children who reached maturity were still living. Two sons, John and Thomas, died in the vigor of their young manhood, both from the result of accidents. James, Jean and Marion clung to their native hills near Kilmarnock. Mary, who never married, made her home with Marion after the death of her parents.

Thomas, referred to above, was a young man of promise. He was on his way to America, when a rolling cask on the ship, on which he was to embark, then about to leave port at Liverpool, caused the injuries which resulted fatally a few days later.

Of this family, one only survives at the time of writing (1904), Janet, who came to Canada in 1844 with Margaret and John Paton. She spent eight years in their home in Scotland and America, giving richly of her sympathy and earnest, intelligent effort in the reforms of the day, when religious ideas were being revolutionized in their midst, and temperance was a daily topic of conversation at their fireside. Soon after her arrival in America, she was united in marriage to William Bone, who had known her in Scotland, and who had followed her to 'the new world' as her lover – a character, by the way, which he did not lay aside during a long life-time. Five children were born to them: Mary, who was early taken from them, William, Edwin, Charles and Julia.

Mr. Bone was an enterprising and successful business man, and, with his wife, crossed the Atlantic three times, to revisit the friends and scenes of their youth, bringing to their kindred in America, who were unable to follow their example as travelers, vivid pictures of the life that still went on in the beautiful green Ayrshire, to which the pen of its poet, with all his gifts, fails to do ample justice. – Jessie Paton.

John and Margaret had nine children: Margaret, John, Annie, Jean, James W., Alex. W., John A., Jessie and William. The first four were born in Scotland, the rest in Canada.

I.   MARGARET PATON GOLDEN was born on February 8, 1836. She was married on February 8, 1859 to Richard Golden, a native of Sligo, Ireland. Their home has mostly been on a farm near Amherstburg, Ontario. They have prospered. Mr. Golden is an Episcopalian. He is willing that others should have liberty of conscience.

Richard and Margaret have six children: Allan Jasper, Margaret Anna, Richard Eccles, Jessie Maria, James Henry & William Louis.

(a)        Allan Jasper Golden was born on February 9, 1860. In 1885 he was married to Margaret Callam. They live on a farm near Amherstburg, Ontario.

Allan Jasper and Margaret have had five children: Margaret Edna, Allan, John Paton, Harry and Willie.

(1)        Margaret Edna Golden (Edna) granddaughter of Richard and Margaret Paton Golden, was born on March 4, 1886, and died on March 14, 1904.

(2)        Allan Golden, grandson of Richard and Margaret Paton Golden, was born on November 25, 1887.

(3)        John Paton Golden (Paton), grandson of Richard and Margaret Paton Golden, was born on October 6, 1893.

(4)        Harry Golden, grandson of Richard and Margaret Paton Golden, was born on January 10, 1897.

(5)        Willie Golden, grandson of Richard and Margaret Paton Golden, was born on August 20, 1900.

(b)       Margaret Anna Golden (Anna) was born on December 26, 1861. She is not married, and her home is with her parents.

(c)        Richard Eccles Golden (Eccles) was born in October 1864. On November 25, 1896, he was married to Edith Martin.

(d)       Jessie Maria Golden Ganyard was born in August, 1866. On December 31, 1893, she was married to Allan B. Ganyard, in California where they now live.

(e)        James Henry Golden (Henry) was born on April 10, 1869. On December 13, 1893 he was married to Elba Potts.

Henry and Elba have one child: Nora.

(1)        Nora Golden, granddaughter of Richard and Margaret Paton Golden, was born on May 15, 1901.

(f)        William Louis Golden was born on May 15, 1871. He is not married.

II.   JOHN PATON was born on February 8, 1838, and died at Kilmarnock, Scotland, on December 7, 1838.

III.   ANNIE PATON BLAKE was born on November 22, 1839. In her fourth year she came with her parents to Canada. Her home was still with them after they moved to Michigan. For a time she was clerk in a General Store in Armada. On her birthday, November 22, 1867, she was married to Harry[91] A. Blake, of English descent, born in Vermont. Their home is in Cheboygan, Mich., where for many years Mr. Blake has been engaged in the Foundry business. Annie’s sympathies are probably with the Congregational Church, though she is not very sectarian.

Harry and Annie have three children: Jessie, William Hamilton and John Alfred.

(a)        Jessie Blake was born in Cheboygan, Mich., on Sept. 4, 1869. She is not married, and her home is with her parents. She has spent considerable time in her brother's telephone office.

(b)       William Hamilton Blake was born in Cheboygan, Mich., April 14, 1872. On Sept. 14, 1901, he was married to Violet E. Smith. Their home is in Cheboygan. For many years William has been engaged in the telephone business, and is now Manager of the Cheboygan Telephone Exchange.

William and Violet have had two children: William Hamilton and Paul.

(1)        William Hamilton Blake, grandson of Harry and Annie Paton Blake, was born Sept.12, 1902, and died on March 12, 1903.

(2)        Paul Blake, grandson of Harry and Annie Paton Blake, was born June 10, 1904.

(c)        John Alfred Blake was born in Cheboygan, Mich., March 20, 1889. He is in the foundry business with his father. He is married to Alice Ritter of Cheboygan, and their home is there.

John and Alice have one child[92]: Alice P.

(1)        Alice P. Blake, granddaughter of Harry and Annie Paton Blake, was born on June 6, 1904.

IV.   JEAN PATON LEIGHTON was born on August 8, 1841. When about two years old, she came with her parents to Canada. She obtained more than a common school education, and for a time taught in the public schools in Canada. On August 8, 1865, she was married to Henry P. Leighton, of English descent, born in Ontario, Canada. Their home is on a farm about two miles southeast of Armada Mich. Henry is a good farmer, and they have prospered. They have done considerable thinking on social, political and religious lines, and have reached some conclusions that are out of the ordinary. For many years they have observed the Seventh Day Sabbath; but they have a much broader view of the Bible Plan and the Gospel of Christ than Sabbath keepers generally have, and believe in the victory of Christ and righteousness, in the final salvation of all from sin and death.

Henry and Jean have two children: Maggie and Alice.

(a)        Maggie Leighton was born near Armada, Mich., April 11, 1868. She is not married, and is at home with her parents. She has shown an ability as an artist without much special training.

(b)       Alice Leighton Dresser was born near Armada, Mich., October 10, 1872. Her husband's name is Robert Dresser. Their home is on a farm near her father's.

Robert and Alice have five children: Ray, Leighton, Lena, Jean and Stanley.

(1)        Ray Dresser, granddaughter of Henry and Jean Paton Leighton, was born near Armada, Mich., December 13, 1890.

(2)        Leighton Dresser, grandson of Henry and Jean Paton Leighton, was born near Armada, Mich., March 25, 1893.

(3)        Lena Dresser, granddaughter of Henry and Jean Paton Leighton, was born near Armada, Mich, July 4, 1894.

(4)        Jean Leighton Dresser, granddaughter of Henry and Jean Paton Leighton, was born near Armada, Mich., on May 11, 1896.

(5)        Stanley Leighton Dresser, grandson of Henry and Jean Paton Leighton, was born near Armada, Mich., June 13, 1898.

V.   JAMES W. PATON was born near Amherstburg, Canada on March 15, 1844, and died at Colchester, Canada, on December 5, 1857, and was buried beside his Grandmother Paton in the Colchester Cemetery by Lake Erie.

VI.   ALEX W. PATON was born near Amherstburg, Canada on April 17, 1846. On May 29, 1872, he was married to Christina Fox of Essex County, Canada, a niece of Henry P. Leighton. Their home most of the time has been on a farm a mile east and about half a mile south of Armada. There they were successful. A few years ago they sold their farm and went to California; but they soon returned, and now live in Armada, Michigan.

Alex and Christina have one child: Colin James.

(a)        Colin James Paton was born near Armada, Mich., on March 15, 1878. He is not married, and is at home with his parents.

VII.   JOHN A. PATON was born near Amherstburg, Canada, March 12, 1849. He came to Michigan with his parents in 1864. On March 26, 1878, he was married to his cousin, Margaret A. Paton, of Almont, Mich. For a number of years they lived on a farm in the township of Richmond, between Armada and Lenox, Mich. Since 1893 they have lived at Lake Linden, Mich., where he has been doing good work in the way of farm gardening. They are connected with the Congregational Church, and are interested in what is for the general good of the community.

John A. and Margaret A. Paton have had seven children: Charlotte, Florence, Bruce, Ruth, Blake, Margaret and Jean. None of these are married, but the signs indicate that some of them are dangerously near to crossing the line from "Single blessedness". They have not told me not to tell.

(a)        Charlotte Paton was born on January 17, 1879. She has more than a common school education. She has taken a course in the State Normal School at Ypsilanti, and is now a teacher in Upper Michigan. (Later note: died in 1954)

(b)       Florence Paton was born on October 13, 1881. She too has taken a course in the State Normal School, and is a teacher in Upper Michigan.

(c)        Bruce Paton was born on April 28, 1883. He is a cashier in a bank at Lake Linden, and his home is with his parents.

(d)       Ruth Paton was born on November 26, 1884. She is still at home with her parents. (Later note: married Wm. Reed Sincock on Aug. 24, 1904. Died on Jan. 13, 1956, in Detroit.)

(e)        Blake Paton was born June 5, 1886. His home is with his parents. For a time he was employed in a stamping mill in Lake Linden. He is now taking a course in the Cleary Business College in Ypsilanti, Mich.

(f)        Margaret Paton was born on January 1, 1894, and died February 3, 1900.

(g)        Jean Paton was born September 24, 1898.

VIII.   JESSIE PATON was born in Canada, near Amherstburg, on January 4, 1852. She is not married. In addition to the common school education, she took a course in the State Normal School at Ypsilanti, Mich., and also in the University of Chicago. She spent at least one year in Europe in the study of the languages. She has been a successful teacher in several high schools in Michigan and Illinois. In 1901, being in need of rest, she retired from the work of teaching. Her home is now in Armada, Mich. She has been (perhaps is) a member of the Presbyterian Church in Ypsilanti, but is not bound by the old Standards.

IX.   WILLIAM PATON was born near Amherstburg, Canada, July 24, 1854, and came with his parents to Mich. in 1864. He married his cousin, Elizabeth Paton, of Almont, Mich, March 18, 1876. For a short time they lived on a farm nearly four miles east of Almont. After that they lived for a time in Armada, where he engaged in mercantile business. Finally they went west to the State of Washington. For a while they lived in Walla Walla, where he sold sewing machines. Afterward they moved to near Kiona, and there he engaged in farming. It was while in the West that they united with the Methodist Church. He drowned on May 1, 1896.

William and Elizabeth Paton have two children: Winifred Woodburn and John Harold.

(a)        Winifred Woodburn Paton was born in Michigan on March 22, 1878. She went west with her parents. She made good use of her opportunities, and obtained a good education, and taught in Washington for a time. She spent a year in a school near San Jose, Cal. After the death of her father and brother, she returned to Michigan with her mother. Afterward she spent a year in the University of Chicago. Then she taught a year in Morgan Park, a suburb of Chicago, Ill., and is now a teacher in Upper Michigan. She is not married.

(b)       John Harold Paton (Harold) was born in Michigan on July 10, 1881. He went west with his parents. After the death of his father, the lad labored bravely to carry on the work of the farm; but he was taken away by death on April 12, 1899.

D E S C E N D A N T S   O F   J A M E S

James[93] had at least two daughters[94]. After their father's death, in Scotland in 1853, they[95] went with their mother to Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.A.

D E S C E N D A N T S   O F   D A V I D

By the two mothers there were twenty children: John, Christina, David, John H., William Woodburn, Annie Allan, Alexander, James, Andrew, Elizabeth, Janet, Jean, Margaret Ann, Agnes, Robert, Mary Gertrude, James Woodburn, Allan Hamilton, Grace and Thomas. The two mothers being sisters, what these children lack of being full brothers and sisters, they make up in being cousins.

I.   JOHN PATON was born in Galston, Scotland, on March 22, 1835, and died March 20, 1836.

II.   CHRISTINA PATON MILLIKIN was born in Galston, Scotland, on June 20, 1836. She had the ordinary school privileges of the time and place. In 1852 she came with the family to Michigan. About the first of August 1853 she was married to William Millikin, who was born in Scotland in May 1832. In the summer of 1859, she publicly confessed her faith in Christ and was baptized by Eld. Thompkinson, a Methodist Protestant minister, though she did not unite with the church. She was an earnest and faithful Christian. They lived on several farms within a few miles of Almont. They finally bought a farm three and a half miles northeast of Almont. There she died on October 23, 1868, and was buried in the Cemetery at the Presbyterian Church in the Scotch Settlement.

William and Christian had seven children: John W., Christina, Marion, David, Jenette, William and Katie.

(a)        John W. Millikin was born on May 14, 1854. He was brought up on a farm, and received the common school education. On December 24, 1876, he was married to Sarah Elizabeth Fisher, of the township of Almont, who was born on December 19, 1855, on the farm where they now live (and which is theirs), nearly six miles northwest of Almont.

John and Sarah have had seven children: Effie May, Roy A., Claude Abner, Floyd David, Leah, John Paton and Nell Wanda.

(1)        Effie May Millikin Adam, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on October 6, 1877. On March 7, 1900 she was married to George W. Adam, of Scotch descent, who was born in Ontario on March 12, 1877. He is a farmer.

George and Effie have one child: Marion.

(1)        Marion Adam great granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on July 16, 1904. This is the first Great, Great Grandchild of our father, David Paton.

(2)        Roy A. Millikin, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on March 7, 1881, and died on July 27, 1881.

(3)        Claude Abner Millikin, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on March 9, 1883. He is not married, and his home is still with his parents.

(4)        Floyd David Millikin, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on October 9, 1885. His home is still with his parents.

(5)        Leah Millikin, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on August 23, 1889, and died on September 19, 1889.

(6)        John Paton Millikin, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on December 7, 1890.

(7)        Nell Wanda Millikin, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on November 8, 1897.

(b)       Christina Millikin Hough was born on March 29, 1856. On May 15 1874, she was baptized by Eld. Martelle from Romeo, and received into the Almont Baptist Church, of which she ever remained an active member. For years she made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Orlo Rollins of Almont. On November 23, 1881, she was married to Frederick Walter Hough, who was born on the farm one mile south and half a mile west of Almont, on Sept. 29, 1853. He too was an active member of the Almont Baptist Church. She died on December 16, 1892.

Frederick and Christina had five children: Walter K., Mary Elizabeth, Carrie Grace, Eunice Ella and William Howard.

(1)        Walter King Hough, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on March 1, 1883. He is not married, and he still lives on the home farm. He is a member of the Almont Baptist Church. In addition to the opportunity afforded by the Almont High School, he has been attending the Agricultural College at Lansing.

(2)        Mary Elizabeth Hough, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born May 19, 1884. She is not married, and her home is still on the farm. She is a member of the Almont Baptist Church. Since going through the Almont High School, she has been taking a course in the Baptist College at Kalamazoo, Mich.

(3)        Carrie Grace Hough, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on November 30, 1885. She is still at her childhood home. She is a member of the Almont Baptist Church. In June 1904 she graduated from the Almont High School.

(4)        Eunice Ella Hough, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on March 19, 1887. She is still at her childhood home. She is a member of the Almont Baptist Church. In June 1904 she graduated from the Almont High School.

(5)        William Howard Hough, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born May 7, 1889. He is still at his childhood home. He is a member of the Almont Baptist Church. He still attends the Almont School.

(c)        Marion Millikin Muir was born on August 29, 1858. On March 17, 1877, she married Neil Muir, of the township of Almont, who was born on Feb. 9, 1856. They have a good farm two miles north and two miles west of Almont. She reminds us of her mother.

Neil and Marion have had four children: Jennie Christina, Walter Paton, Allan and William.

(1)        Jennie Christina Muir (Christina), granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on March 19, 1879, and died January 26, 1898. She was a member of the Christian Endeavor Society.

(2)        Walter Paton Muir, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born Oct. 20, 1885. He is still with his parents on the home farm. He attends Dryden High School, and aspires to a higher education. He is the musician of the family.

(3)         Allan Muir, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born July 22, 1888. He is with his parents on the home farm. He attends Dryden school. (Later note: Wife Mary – 6 sons, 3 daughters – 22 grandchildren. Died 1960.)

(4)        William Muir, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born Feb. 28, 1891. He is with his parents on the home farm. He attends Dryden school.

(d)       David Millikin was born on February 1, 1861. He was brought up on the farm, but in later life he became a merchant. He married twice. His first wife was Clara Belle Soper, who was born in Canada July 16, 1870. They had no children. She died on August 10, 1896. His second wife is Bertha E. DeGroat, who was born in Arcadia, Mich., July 31, 1880. They live at Lum, Mich.

David and Bertha have three children: Clara Belle, Grace Elizabeth and Dulce.

(1)        Clara Belle Millikin, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on March 10, 1901.

(2)        Grace Elizabeth Millikin, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on August 14, 1902.

(3)        Dulce Millikin, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on February 28, 1904.

(e)        Jenette Millikin Fox was born April 28, 1863. Her husband is Albert Fox, who was born December 23, 1859. Their home is at Clifford, Mich., where they have a Grocery Store. (Later note: died Aug. 17, 1949, at Arnold Home, Detroit, Mich.)

Albert and Jenette have two children: Mable and Vernie A.

(1)        Mable Fox, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on November 8, 1884. She has finished her course at Clifford School, and is at home with her parents, giving assistance in the store.

(2)        Vernie A. Fox, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born July 20, 1887. His home is with his parents, and he attends the Clifford School.

(f)        William Paton Millikin was born October 18, 1866. On December 29, 1886, he was married to Helen Maria Anning, who was born in Metamora, Mich., on February 17, 1871. They live at Grayling, Mich. They have 120 acres of land.

William and Helen have four children: Nettie M., Frank L., Hurl D. and W. Clare.

(1)        Nettie Maude Millikin, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on March 12, 1890. She has passed to the ninth grade of the Grayling School.

(2)        Frank Lynn Millikin, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born April 4, 1896.

(3)        Hurl David Millikin, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on January 3, 1900.

(4)        William Clare Millikin (Clare), grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on November 6, 1902.

(g)        Katie Elizabeth Millikin Coan was born on October 16, 1868. On May 7, 1887, she married Joseph D. Coan, who was born July 16, 1865. They live on a farm near Kingston, Mich.

Joseph and Katie have had five children: Bertha Edna, James Oliver, Anabel Paton, Jennie Malinda and Hazel Morton.

(1)        Bertha Edna Coan, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born on May 23, 1887 and died July 24, 1901. She was buried in the Cemetery at the Presbyterian Church in the Scotch Settlement.

(2)        James Oliver Coan, grandson of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born April 30, 1891.

(3)        Anabel Paton Coan, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born July 4, 1892.

(4)        Jennie Malinda Coan, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born January 18, 1894.

(5)        Hazel Morton Coan, granddaughter of William and Christina Paton Millikin, was born August 15, 1896.

III.   DAVID PATON was born in Galston, Scotland, on January 3, 1839. There he attended school for quite a number of years. In 1852 he came to Michigan with the family. Here he had very little opportunity of going to school, as he spent most of his time with father on the farm. Very early in 1858 he became specially interested in Christ and salvation, during a series of meetings held in "the McGeorge School House,” conducted by Eld. Sullivan Clark, a Methodist Protestant Minister. He publicly confessed his faith in Christ as his Saviour, and on March 7, 1858, he was baptized by Eld. William D. Potter, of Hadley, Mich., and received into the Almont Baptist Church.

On August 17, 1861, he left the church because of the rejection of a minister on account of his anti-Calvinism. But he did not lose his interest in Christ. At that time the Civil War required nearly all attention. The two questions which were at the front, were the preservation of the Union and the destruction of Slavery. And on August 9, 1862 (according to the war record), David enlisted in Romeo, Mich., and became a member of Co. B, 22nd, Mich. Vol. Infantry. In it he served until October 22, 1863, when he was transferred into the United States Signal Corps, and there served until after the close of the war. He was in the Army of the Cumberland and the Army of Georgia, was with General Slocum in Sherman's March to the Sea, and from Savannah, Ga., to Washington, D.C. He was there at the Grand Review. During June, 1865, he went with General Sherman to St. Louis, Mo., and was discharged there on July 10, 1865, and came home.

Soon after, he bought forty acres of land, joining father's farm on the north. On June 13, 1866, he was married to Agnes McKail, who was born in Galston, on February 27, 1839, and came to Michigan with her parents in 1855. For a time they lived on the place above-mentioned. Later they sold that, and bought a larger farm, known as "The Muzzy Farm" and still later, more land – in all 192 acres – the home being three miles northeast of Almont. They have been industrious and successful. They now live in the village of Almont, though it can scarcely be said that David has given up the farm, as he spends much of his time there.

David has done much reading and thinking, and has decided opinions on social, political and religious subjects. He is quite democratic, or cosmopolitan, in his ideas, and has a large view of the Gospel of Christ. On February 5, 1870, he was restored to the fellowship of the Baptist Church, and on March 19th of that year was elected to be Deacon, and served the church in that capacity about two years. Early in 1872 he again left the Baptist Church, with others of the family, because there was an attempt to make its Articles of Faith binding on all its members. He then united with the Church of Christ in Almont; but in later years he often worships with the Baptists, though he still does his own thinking. (Later note: died Oct. 8, 1932.)

David and Agnes have three children: Lizzie, Robert and John.

(a)        Lizzie Paton Mitchell was born April 3, 1867. She had the common school opportunity for education, and for a time attended Almont High School. Most of her early life was spent at home, sharing in the home work with her mother. On June 30, 1896, she married James Mitchell, who was born of Scotch parents on the farm where they now live, three miles north and one east of Almont. They are both members of the Almont M.E. Church. (Later note: died 1912. James Mitchell born Dec. 8, 1866, died Nov. 8, 1954.)

(b)       Robert Paton was born on April 21, 1871. He had the home school opportunity for education, also attending Almont High School for some time. He was brought up on the farm, and has spent most of his time there. He spent a little time in the Upper Peninsula, working in connection with a copper Stamping Mill. On Nov. 1, 1898, he married Minnie Wolf, who was born of German parents in Almont on May 17, 1874. They live on his father's farm, but have bought another 80 acres – quite near. (Later note: Rob't died Apr. 2, 1945, Minnie died March 2, 1949.)

Robert and Minnie have one child: Mildred.

(1)        Mildred Paton, granddaughter of David and Agnes McKail Paton, was born September 13, 1901.

(2)        Walter (Later addition)

(c)        John Paton was born October 27, 1875. In addition to the district school education, he also attended Almont High School. He was brought up on the farm, and spends most of his time at farm labor. He too spent a season in the Copper country of Upper Michigan. He is not married, and his home is with his parents.

(Later note: died Miami, Florida, 1964.)

IV.   JOHN H. PATON was born in Galston, Scotland, on April 7, 1843. He commenced going to school just before he was four years of age and, with but a few short breaks, was in school five years. He remembers his mother quite well, who died when he was six years of age. In 1852 he came to Michigan with the family. Until he was seventeen years of age, he worked on the home farm in summers, and attended school in the winters. In the winter of 1860-61 he taught school in the Retherford district, a little over a mile from home. Next summer he worked on the farm, and in the autumn of that year, he spent three months with Uncle John on the Rosebank farm, near Amherstburg, Canada.

Early in 1858 he became specially interested in Christ and salvation, during a series of meetings held in "the McGeorge School House,” two and a half miles from home, conducted by Eld. Sullivan Clark, a Methodist Protestant Minister. But he found peace in believing in Jesus as his Saviour while listening to a sermon delivered in "the County Line School House" by William McKay – our near neighbor – who accepted the teaching of James Morrison in Scotland. On March 7, 1858, he was baptized by Eld. William D. Potter, of Hadley, Mich., and was received into the Almont Baptist Church. On August 17, 1861, he left that Church, because of the rejection of a minister who held anti-Calvinistic views. He regarded the casting out of that minister as virtually casting out himself. He did not, however, lose his interest in Christ.

Late in 1861, he returned from Canada, and spent the winter drawing wood and grain with father's team. In the spring of 1862, he engaged to work on the Dernberger farm (familiarly called the "Terryberry" farm) six miles west of Romeo, while David was working on the farm at Clifton Mill. He did not escape the excitement caused by the Civil War, and he too enlisted in Romeo, Mich., on August 9, 1862 (according to the war record, though the actual enlistment was two days later) and became a member of Co. B, 22nd. Mich. Vol. Infantry. In it he served until October 22, 1863, when he was transferred into the U.S. Signal Corps, and there served until after the close of the war. He was in the Army of the Cumberland and the Army of Georgia, and was with General Slocum in Sherman's March to the Sea, and from Savannah, Ga., to Washington, D.C. On December 13, 1864, while before Savannah, he was announced as an "Acting Sergeant" and was made Sergeant on March 1, 1865. He was at Washington, D.C. at the Grand Review. On May 31st, he received a thirty days' furlough, and spent the month of June at home. During that month General Sherman's Head Quarters moved to St. Louis, Mo., so when the furlough expired, he went there, and was there discharged on July 10th, and came home. He and David enlisted together, served together, slept together and were discharged together. He is pleased to record that, though he was often exposed to danger from the flying of bullets and the bursting of shells, he never fired a gun at any human being – never being called upon to do so. He did not hesitate, however, to join with his comrades in shooting pigs and cattle when sent out to forage.

In the autumn of 1865 he bought forty acres of land in the township of Armada, a mile east and a mile and a half north of the village, near Uncle John's farm. He taught school that winter in the home district, three miles east of the village of Almont. On January 13, 1866, he was married to Sarah Elizabeth Wilson, who was born (of English parents) in Berlin, St. Clair Co. Mich., on January 21, 1844. They moved to the farm in Armada township on March 25, 1866. He taught school in the district the next winter. In the summer of 1867 he began to preach. His first sermon was preached in the "Stoddard School House,” ten miles northeast of Almont, where he went to fill the appointment of Eld. Angell, then a Methodist Protestant Minister. The text was Rom. i, 16: "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ." In the autumn of 1867 he bought forty acres of land in the township of Almont, two miles east and two north of the village, and moved there in November. (Next summer he sold the land in Armada to Henry P. Leighton.) For two winters he taught school in that district. For about two years he preached each alternate Sunday in the schoolhouse, and had Sunday School every week. He was not then a member of any church. On February 5, 1870, he reunited with the Almont Baptist Church, and soon after began to preach for them. On October 1st of that year he was appointed to write the history of the Church, which was read before them and accepted, on July 1, 1871. On October 19, 1870, he was ordained to the gospel ministry by a Council of Baptist ministers, and was formally made pastor of the Church. (That was the day when Uncle Robert was drowned.) Soon after, he and his family moved from the farm to the village, where their home has been ever since. During the following year he baptized seven, and received ten into the church.

During his three years of army life, he had been led to search the Scriptures for himself, and became unsettled concerning the popular church doctrine of human destiny, and was convinced that God will have a clean universe; and at the time of ordination, he made known to the Council that he was inclined to the doctrine of "Conditional Immortality". Still they ordained him, thinking he would outgrow the idea. But it grew upon him, and he preached it, thinking that many would be glad to accept that solution of the great question. But it stirred up bitter opposition on the part of some of the members, and there was some earnest talk of a trial for heresy. Anticipating what was coming, he resigned his pastorate on December 24, 1871, and soon after applied for membership in the Advent Christian Conference, and was received by them. But, after that, a Council was called, which met in the Baptist church on February 28, 1872, and he was charged with heresy. In hope of having a reasonable opportunity to defend his views, he was willing to appear before the Council for trial; but when the chairman announced that he would not be allowed any defense at all, but that he must answer all their questions only by yes or no, he refused to answer altogether, and denied their jurisdiction over him. He was then formally disfellowshiped by the Baptist ministry and church. Soon afterward he organized a Church of Christ in Almont, which united with the Advent Christian Conference, of Michigan.

A historian can neither make nor unmake facts, whether they are good or bad, wise or foolish, pleasant or unpleasant. His part is to tell things as they are, so far as they are told at all. So far as motives are concerned, no doubt both he and the Baptists did what at that time they thought was best.

John and the young church remained only two years in the A. C. Conference. By further study his views were modified and enlarged; and while he did not make his opinions a test of fellowship, he did not find others in the Conference as willing to tolerate the differences, and not being willing to be bound by any church-creed, either written or unwritten, he withdrew. Since 1874, he has been pastor of several independent churches, which receive all who accept Christ as their Lord and Saviour, on the ground that all who have the Spirit of Christ belong to the one true Church; and they allow full liberty of opinion and expression.

This is not the place to give reasons, but to tell facts. He grew to believe in a "larger gospel" of Christ – that He is the First and the Last, the All-Comprehensive One, the Unit of the whole race; that He is therefore the Life, the Light, the Judge and the Saviour of all; and that no one will be hopelessly lost. And for many years he has used both voice and pen to proclaim what he believes to be the full gospel of Christ.

He has a large personal acquaintance, having, for thirty-two years, preached and given Bible lectures in Michigan and many other States. In the last twenty-four years, he has published three editions (ten thousand copies) of DAY DAWN, two editions (three thousand copies) of MOSES AND CHRIST, and two editions (three thousand copies) of THE PERFECT DAY. For twenty-two years he has published THE WORLD'S HOPE, for three years a monthly, and the rest of the time a semi-monthly magazine. In 1897, he and his daughter Nora visited Scotland and England, and he preached in Galston, Paisley, Kirkcaldy, Nottingham and Liverpool. They greatly enjoyed the visit among their relatives on both sides of the family, and brought back many pleasant memories. As curiosities, they brought the old family cradle in which we were rocked, and Grandfather Paton's footstool, both of which may be seen in the home in Almont.

He is now President of the Larger Hope Association, which was organized and incorporated in November 1903. In this history he has said more about himself than the others because he knows more about himself, and because he thinks the family will be interested in the record. But he thinks that all are to be equally honored, who are true to their convictions, and endeavor to fill properly the place assigned them. Having made mistakes, he trusts he has learned wisdom by them. "To err is human; to forgive is divine." He is not disposed to quarrel with those who differ with him. He heartily endorses the motto: "With malice toward none, and charity for all."

(Later note: died Sept. 6, 1922.)

John and Sarah had six children: Henry Wilson, George Wilber, Norah Edith, David William, Christina Elizabeth and Annie Ethel.

(a)        Henry Wilson Paton was born in the township of Armada, Mich., on November 1, 1866. He had most of his education in the Almont school. When about sixteen years of age, he left the school, and became a clerk in the General Store of "Taylor and Hopkin” in Almont, where he remained until 1890. During the last year in the store, he attended the Almont High School, and worked in the store evenings and Saturdays. Then he spent two years in the State Normal School in Ypsilanti. In 1892 he obtained a position with the "Rumsey Manufacturing Co.” in Detroit, which later was merged into the "Detroit Carriage Manufacturing Co." and still later, into the "Detroit Carriage Co.”, in which he is a stockholder, and of which he is the Vice President.

On July 19, 1893, he was married to Caroline S. W. Hardy of Ypsilanti, a teacher, the daughter of a Presbyterian minister. She was born on February 29, 1872. Their home is in Detroit. They also have a summer cottage at Lake Orion. When quite young, he was baptized, and became a member of the Church of Christ, in Almont, and later, in Detroit; he and his wife are now connected with the Congregational Church which is near their home (1904).

(Later note: Caroline, his first wife died Oct. 25, 1923. Henry married a second time in 1924 to Florence M. Eveland. She was born Sept. 17, 1882.)

NEWSPAPER CLIPPING: PATON – Jan. 27, 1943, at his residence, 9315 Ravenswood Ave., Henry W., husband of Florence M. Paton; father of Mrs. Thomas Marshall, Mrs. Bert Flower, Mrs. Hardy Patterson and Henry D. Paton: brother of Mrs. Sullivan Robinson, Mrs. Parker Pennington, Mrs. Clyde Swain, and David Paton. Funeral services at chapel of the W.R. Hamilton Co ............

Henry and Caroline have three children: Henry Donald, Muriel Joy and Elizabeth Christina. (Later note: fourth child Caroline Hardy Paton.)

(1)        Henry Donald Paton, grandson of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born on January 22, 1895. He is now in the fourth grade in school. (Later note: married Betty Virginia Curtis Mar. 6, 1918 at Seattle, Wash. She was born June 30, 1899. They had three children: Donald Curtis Paton, born Feb. 18, 1919, died March 25, 1919, at Pontiac, Mich; Betsy Ann Paton, born Jan. 1921; and Henry Donald Paton, born Sept. 6, 1927.)

(2)        Muriel Joy Paton, granddaughter of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born April 15, 1896 at Detroit, Mich. She is in B 2nd grade in school. (Later note: married Thomas Wallace Marshall, July 2, 1917 at Almont, Mich. He was born Jan. 20, 1890 at Philadelphia, Pa., and died March 14, 1945 at Milford, Michigan. Muriel died Sept. 17, 1947 ‑ Milford, Michigan. They had seven children: Thomas Henry Marshall, born April 14, 1918 at Detroit, Mich; Joseph Paton Marshall, born Sept. 7, 1921; Caroline Joy Marshall, born June 25, 1923; William Wallace Washburn Marshall, born Oct. 22, 1924; Herbert Hardy Marshall, born June 20, 1928; Donald Towne Marshall, born Sept. 28, 1929; and Seth Cullen Marshall, born Sept. 13, 1931.)

(3)        Elizabeth Christina Paton, granddaughter of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born December 13, 1898. She is in B Ist grade in school. (Later note: married Herbert M. Zerbe, July 7, 1917 at Detroit. He was born June 3, 1896 at Detroit. They were divorced, and she married Albert William Flower, July 28, 1934 at Keego Harbor, Mich. He was born April 9, 1986 (sic) at Yoville, England. There were no children by either marriage. After 17 years of marriage Albert Flower died, and a year later Elizabeth married Edward Livernois, and sometime after his passing, she married Arthur Marquart of Maceday Lake, Mich.)

(4)        Caroline Hardy Paton (Hardy), granddaughter of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born April 12, 1906 at Detroit, Mich. (This is a later addition. She wasn't born when the book was published. Hardy married Edward Ehrhart. She married a second time to James R. Patterson, July 28, 1928 at Camp Interlocken, Mich. He was born at Union City, Mich. in 1906. They had one child, Hardy Elizabeth Patterson, born Oct. 26, 1929. Third marriage to Edward Priester of Traverse City, Michigan.)

(b)       George Wilber Paton was born in the township of Almont, October 11, 1868. He is a graduate of Almont High School, class of 1886. For the next four years he spent about half the time in the Almont post office, and half in his father's printing office. In the winter of 1890-91, he took a course at Cleary Business College in Ypsilanti. Since then he has been constantly employed by his father, as printer and Business Manager in the office of THE WORLD'S HOPE. On April 14, 1892, he married Maude A. Howland, a teacher, who was born in Almont township, Aug. 14, 1869. They own their home and another house in the village of Almont, and a Summer Cottage at Echo Lake in Oakland County.

Wilber has taken an active interest in the affairs of the village, and has served the public as a member of the Village Council, the Township Board, the School Board, as Justice of the Peace, and Village Assessor – holding the last-named office at this time. He took the township census in 1900, and again this year (1904). He is the Secretary of the Larger Hope Association.

Wilber and Maude have two children: Clyde Raymond and Roy Willis.

(1)        Clyde Raymond Paton, grandson of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in Almont, on January 7, 1894. He has passed from the fourth grade in the Almont School.

(2)        Roy Willis Paton, grandson of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in Almont June 24, 1901.

(c)        Nora Edith Paton Robinson was born in Almont Township July 5, 1870. When quite young she was baptized and united with the Church of Christ in Almont, and has been an active Christian worker ever since – especially in connection with the Christian Endeavor and Epworth League Societies. She is a graduate of Almont High School – class of 1888. Afterward for a short time she attended the State Normal School in Ypsilanti. She taught school in Michigan about three years and in New London, Wisconsin four years. In 1892 she went as a delegate to the International Christian Endeavor Convention in New York, to which her father accompanied her. They then spent a few days at Ocean Grove, N.J. In 1897 she went with him on a visit to Scotland and England. On Dec. 28, 1897 she married Sullivan C. Robinson, a Methodist minister, who was born in Markesan, Wisconsin, June 18, 1868. When they were married, he was a member of the Wisconsin Conference, and located at New London; but in 1898 he was transferred to the Michigan Conference. They were at Clare, Mich. two years, and have been at St. Louis, Mich. four years. (Later note: died Jan. 15, 1946; Sullivan R. died 1953.)

Sullivan and Nora have three children: Edith Margaret, Christina Ethel and Harold Lummis.

(1)        Edith Margaret Robinson, granddaughter of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in Clare, Mich. January 10, 1899.

(2)        Christina Ethel Robinson, granddaughter of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in Clare, Mich. Jan. 4, 1900.

(3)        Harold Lummis Robinson, grandson of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in St. Louis, Mich., on January 9, 1904.

(d)       David William Paton was born in Almont July 28, 1874. He is a graduate of the Almont High School, class of 1893. For several years he spent part of the time in his father's printing office. From Sept. 1893, he taught school near North Branch, Mich. about two years. In Sept. 1895, he went with his father to attend the Dedication of the National Park at Chattanooga, Tenn., to the Exposition at Atlanta, Ga., and then to Canon, Ga. On coming home he was engaged as a clerk in the Almont post office and remained there about two years, and then took a two year course in Pharmacy in the State University in Ann Arbor, and since then has been constantly employed in drug stores in Detroit. Since Feb. 1, 1902, he has been with the Central Drug Company. On October 16, 1901, he married Elizabeth Adelia Vogt, who was born in Detroit, March 27, 1880. She is an Episcopalian. They live in Detroit. (Later note: Elizabeth died Sept. 9, 1958.)

David and Elizabeth have one child: John Dwight.

(1)        John Dwight Paton, grandson of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in Detroit on December 21, 1902.

(e)        Christina Elizabeth Paton was born in Almont on Feb. 27, 1876. She is a graduate of Almont High School ‑ class of 1893. After teaching one year in the Scotch Settlement near home, she took a two-year course in the State Normal School in Ypsilanti, and received a life certificate to teach in the schools of Michigan, and then taught six years at Traverse City, Mich. She has been an active worker in Sunday School and the Christian Endeavor Society. She was baptized in 1898. On Dec. 25, 1902 she married Parker 0. Pennington of Traverse City, who was born November 30, 1877. He is a member of the Society of Friends; but they often worship with the Presbyterians. Their home is in Traverse City where he is an assistant in one of the banks.

(Later note: died Traverse City ‑ Sept. 2, 1943 at Interlochen Camp for Girls.)

(f)        Annie Ethel Paton was born in Almont on May 12, 1883. She is a graduate of Almont High School – class of 1902. She takes an active interest in the Sunday School and Christian Endeavor work, in connection with the Almont Congregational Church – often presiding at the organ. She is the chief musician of the family. She is not married, and is at home with her parents. For the last school year she was an assistant teacher in the Primary Department of the Almont Union School. (Later note: married Clyde Elmo Swain June 12, 1907, at Almont, Mich., who was born May 10, 1883 at Almont. They had 4 children: Sarah Lucile, b. March 26, 1910; Clyde Wilber, b. Aug. 12, 1912; Ida Elizabeth, b. Dec. 10, 1913; Lawrence Paton, b. April 21, 1915, d. Jan. 30, 1916.)

IV.   WILLIAM WOODBURN PATON was born in Galston, Scotland, on January 21, 1845. He attended school there for a short time. He came to Michigan with the family in 1852. He spent most of his time on the home farm, attending the district school in the winters, until the beginning of the Civil War. He took a great interest in the war and what it involved, and from the first was strongly inclined to have a part in it. Finally, on September 12, 1863, he enlisted, and became a member of Co. I, 3rd. Michigan Cavalry, and served there until almost a year after the close of the war. He was in the Army of Tennessee, the Department of Arkansas, the Department of the Gulf, and the Department of Texas. He saw some rough service – had more experience of war (which Gen. Sherman said was "hell") than the rest of us, and yet, though it appears wonderful, he came through without a wound, except a very slight cut in his ear by a bullet. He was discharged with the regiment in Texas, on February 12, 1866 (though they were not disbanded until March 15, at Jackson, Mich.). Coming home, he at once engaged in the quiet and peaceable occupation of farming. On December 25, 1874, he was married to Jean Hunter Millikin, who was born of (Scotch parents) in the township of Bruce, Macomb Co., Mich., on April 17, 1851. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church in the Scotch Settlement.

They now own eighty acres of the farm that father bought when he came to Michigan, the forty acres that David bought when he came home from the army and ten acres more. William has done some good farming, though he has not given it his full attention. He has served the public as Justice of the Peace, Drain Commissioner, Highway Commissioner and Supervisor. He holds the last-named position at the present time (1904). He is also a member of the Board of the Almont Union School.

He is an intelligent reader and thinker, and has definite ideas on what pertains to the public good and the progress of the world, and is a man of social nature and generous sympathies. It need not be surprising that he is out of sympathy with many of the narrow ideas of the past, but is interested in what is for the advancement of mankind.

(Handwritten note – 1928 – Oldest Republican present at Lapeer Co. Convention stated he had voted for every Rep. candidate for President since General Grant.)

William and Jean have three children: Ella Maud, Robert Hunter and Alex M.

(a)        Ella Maud Paton Leete (Maud) was born in Almont township April 24, 1877. She attended the district school in the Scotch Settlement for about two years. She is a graduate of Almont High School and the State Normal School. On January 26, 1899, she married Albert H. Leete, who was born on June 1, 1870. He is a merchant in North Branch, Mich. where they live. (Later note: he died Nov. 7, 1928 at Estacada, Oregon; burial at North Branch, Dec. 16, 1928.)

Albert and Maud have one child: James Paton.

(1)        James Paton Leete, grandson of William W. and Jean Paton, was born in North Branch, Mich., August 1, 1900.

(b)       Robert Hunter Paton (Hunter) was born in Almont township, March 17, 1881. He was brought up on the farm, and is mostly employed in out-door work. He took a course in Almont High School. In 1899 he was married to Edith May Veness, who was born in New York State, May 13, 1881.

Hunter and Edith have one child: Russell Victor.

(1)        Russel Victor Paton, grandson of William W. and Jean Paton was born in the township of Almont, March 2, 1900.

(Note: Hunter married Edna Coddington Feb. 28, 1910. Daughter Jean born on farm July 9, 1911. Hunter died August 30, 1940; Edna died Dec. 15, 1950.)

(e)        Alex M. Paton was born in Almont township December 20, 1883. He was brought up on the farm. He also took a course in Almont High School, and then studied Pharmacy in the Detroit Medical College. He is not married, and his home is with his parents. (Note: died Sept. 3, 1915.)

VI.   ANNIE ALLAN PATON was born in Galston, Scotland, December 29, 1846. She came to Michigan with the family in 1852. She was only eleven years of age when of her own accord she publicly confessed Christ as her Saviour. On March 21, 1858 she was baptized by Eld. William D. Potter of Hadley, Mich., and united with the Almont Baptist Church. She illustrates the truth that there is no danger in beginning to follow Christ young. This brings to mind Grandfather's text for the children, "They that seek me early shall find me." Her face has always been toward the light, and it has been like sunshine to many. She is not married, and so in a special sense, we feel that she belongs to us all, and she is welcome in our homes. She had the home school education, but was not satisfied with that. She took two courses in the State Normal School at Ypsilanti. (For several years it has been called the Michigan State Normal College.) She taught for a time in country schools, and later in several high schools, but finally, in 1884, she became one of the teachers in the State Normal School, and held that position for fifteen years. Her chief work was teaching French and German. She spent two years in Europe studying these languages. Finally her health required her to rest, and she was given a year's vacation, and she took another trip to Europe; but she did not rally much until she resigned her position as teacher. Then came a sense of freedom and rest, and some improvement in health.

Probably an important cause of her success as a teacher has been her method of discipline. She seemed to appeal to the best in her pupils instead of arousing their combativeness. At least one very unmanageable girl was subdued and became loyal through her kindness. A teacher (sic) who had been under her and another teacher said: "I tried to please them both, Miss ‑‑‑‑‑‑ because I was afraid of her, but Miss Paton, because I loved her."

In 1872 she left the Baptist Church, and for many years has been a member of the Presbyterian Church in Ypsilanti. But she is not sectarian – cares more for life than dogmas – and often worships with the Baptists and others. She believes in the unity of all Christians, and in the final victory of love, truth and right.

This sister has done much to encourage others in the family to get a good education. She gave us the Brief History with which this book begins; and had it not been for her suggestion and encouragement, it is not likely that this Family History would have been written, but it has grown far beyond the original intention. Her address is Almont, Mich. (Note: died Dec. 7, 1938, at home of Hazen, Rollins near Capac.)

VII.   ALEXANDER PATON was born in Galston, Scotland, December 22, 1848. He was only a few weeks old when mother died. He was taken care of for a time by the wife of Findlay Wylie. He came to Michigan with the family in 1852. He was brought up on the home farm and had the district school education. He was the oldest boy left with father when the three brothers were in the army, and naturally quite a burden fell on his young shoulders. In his sixteenth year he publicly confessed Christ as his Saviour. On April 17, 1864, he was baptized by Eld. Williams, the pastor, and united with the Almont Baptist Church. When 19 years old, he began to teach school, and taught four winters. On October 20, 1870, he married Harriet Martha Wilson (a sister of his brother John's wife), who was born in Berlin township, St. Clair Co., Mich. January 30, 1849. They had no children[96]. They rented father's farm, and lived there five years, beginning in 1870. Then they lived in Almont seven years. One of these he spent teaming to Detroit, and the other six, in the General Store of Farquharson and Taylor, and their successors, Taylor and Hopkin. In 1882 they moved to Shelby, Mich., where he went into mercantile business with Harry L. Andrus of Almont under the firm name of Paton and Andrus. This firm lasted about ten years. In 1887 they added the sawmill business. In 1891 or 1892 they dissolved partnership, Mr. Andrus taking the store, and he the sawmill business, which he carried on alone for about 7 years.

In 1872, he left the Baptist Church, and united with the Church of Christ in Almont soon after it organized. In Shelby they worshiped with the Congregational Church and he was made one of its trustees. He, like some other members of the family, took an active part in the Prohibition movement, and did what he could to improve the condition of the village – his wife being an active member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. He was a member of the Village Council for two years, and was nominated for President of the village, but was defeated by the whiskey party by only two votes. He was a member of the School Board for ten years. Finally his wife's health failed. She spent the last few months of her life at the home of her sister Sarah in Almont, where she died August 6, 1895, and was buried at Shelby.

On December 22, 1896, he married Gertrude B. Pierce, a teacher, of Shelby, who was born in 1868. In 1899 his sawmill was burned, and in that year they moved to Phelps, Mich., where he built a sawmill, and since has been making lumber and shingles there. Through his influence a post office was started at Phelps, and he was its first postmaster. He expects to return to Shelby in the autumn of this year (1904).

Alexander and Gertrude have four children: Carol May, Alexander Hubert, Bernice Hattie and Gertrude Averil.

(a)        Carol May Paton was born in Shelby, Mich, May 8, 1898.

(b)       Alexander Hubert Paton was born in Shelby, Mich., May 26, 1899. (Note: four children: Carol Jean, Charles, Barbara, and Ann.)

(c)        Bernice Hattie Paton was born in Phelps, Mich, April 7, 1901.

(d)       Gertrude Averil Paton was born in Phelps, Mich., October 15, 1902.

VIII.   JAMES PATON, the first child by the second marriage, was born in Galston, Scotland Nov. 30, 1849 and died Dec. 21, 1849.

IX.   ANDREW PATON was born in Galston, Scotland March 12, 1851, and was little more than a year old when the family came to Michigan. He was brought up on the home farm, and had the common school education. When 13 years old he confessed his faith in Christ and united with the Almont Baptist Church, being baptized by Eld. Williams, the pastor, April 17, 1864. In 1872 he left it and united with the Church of Christ. Since then he has worshiped in several places and cooperated with whatever church was most convenient, or wherever he thought he could do the most good, and cares more for Christianity than for Churchanity. At present he is connected with the Methodist Protestant Church in his neighborhood, and for about seven years he and his wife have done what they could to help maintain a Union Sunday School. He was married March 27, 1878 to Mary Nowlin, who was born in Dearborn, Mich. November 23, 1852. Both had more than a common school education, and taught school both before and after they were married. He has taken two courses of study in the State Normal School at Ypsilanti. In 1877 he bought a farm in Goodland township, about 12 miles north and three east of Almont, and after they were married, they lived there till the autumn of 1884. Then partly on account of his health, and partly for other reasons, they left the farm, and he returned to teaching. He spent part of the time in the copper country of Upper Michigan, and afterward taught in Endeavor, Wisconsin. In all, he has spent about 25 years in teaching. On leaving Wisconsin they came to Ann Arbor, Mich., and he took a course in the State University, intending to return to teaching; but instead of that, they finally came back to their farm in Goodland, where they have lived for the last seven years. They now own 260 acres of land.

Andrew reads and thinks a good deal, has definite opinions on various things of life, social, political and religious, and is usually free to express them. Though not what is called an "ordained minister", he has in several places acceptably occupied the pulpit as a preacher. He is interested in whatever he thinks is for the good of the people. Post-office Imlay City, Mich. (Note: died at Ann Arbor, Mich., November 16, 1924.)

Andrew and Mary have had five children: Esther Gertrude, Arthur Light, Marion Laura, William Andrew and Robert Frederick.

(a)        Esther Gertrude Paton was born in Goodland township, Mich., August 2, 1879, and died in Opechee, Mich., March 30, 1888.

(b)       Arthur Light Paton was born in Goodland township, Mich., April 15, 1881. He has a very good education, and will likely want more. He is not married, and his home is with his parents. He has spent most of his time on the farm since the family returned to it; but he spent last year in North Dakota. When at Endeavor, Wis., he united with the Congregational Church. (Note: died December 1964.)

(c)        Marion Laura Paton was born in Goodland township, Mich., November 29, 1883. After getting quite a good education, when still very young she taught school for a short time. Then she took a course in the Michigan State Normal College, and graduated in June 1904. When they lived in Ann Arbor, she united with the M. E. Church. Her home is still with her parents.

(Note: married Walter A. Terpenning June 20, 1914.)

(d)       William Andrew Paton was born in Opechee, Mich., July 19, 1889. He is with his parents, has the common school opportunity for education, and assists in the work on the farm.

(e)        Robert Frederick Paton was born in Opechee, Mich., December 9, 1892. He is with his parents, attends the home school and helps on the farm.

X.   ELIZABETH PATON PATON was born on the home farm, two miles east of Almont, Mich., May 17, 1853. (All her brothers and sisters that follow were born on the same farm, and all attended the same school – at the County Line, less than a mile from home.) In her 17th year she publicly confessed her faith in Christ, and united with the Baptist Church, being baptized by Eld. Shepherd, the pastor, February 6, 1870. She was one of the faithful home workers, and did not teach school. On March 18, 1876, she was married to her cousin, William Paton of Armada, Mich. She went west to Washington State with her husband and children. While there she united with the Methodist Church. She is not sectarian in spirit, and has large view of the gospel and of the success of Christ. (Concerning her husband and children, see No. IX. of Uncle John's Descendants.) After the death of her husband and son, she returned to Michigan, and has lived much of the time at Lake Linden, but her present address is Painesville, Mich. (Note: died Feb. 22, 1916. First of 20 children to die since 1868.)

XI.   JANET PATON COTTRELL was born on June 21, 1854. In her sixteenth year she publicly confessed her faith in the Lord Jesus, was baptized by Eld. Shepherd, February 6, 1870, and united with the Baptist Church. She retains her interest in the cause of Christ, but is not sectarian in her sympathies. In addition to the home school education, she spent a year in Oberlin College, and taught school for a time. On January 25, 1882 she was married to Joseph P. Cottrell of Marine City, Mich., a Captain on the lakes. He was born on April 12, 1851. They went to California in December 1890, and bought an orange grove at Redlands. He passed most of the winters there, and the family remained there about twelve years. He having obtained the position of Inspecter of Hulls, in Detroit, Mich., the family returned and have lived there since June 1902. (Note: Janet died July 27, 1943; Joseph died in 1906.)

Joseph and Janet had five children; Colton Abram, Annie Paton, Grace Submit, Marietta Elizabeth and Joseph P. These were all born in Marine City, Mich. None of them is married, and the home of all the living is with their parents.

(a)        Colton Abram Cottrell was born November 12, 1882. He went to California with the family and returned with them. His education was partly in Marine City, partly in California. He is inclined to follow in the steps of his father; spends his summers mostly on the lakes. He is now a wheelman on one of the large vessels.

(b)       Annie Paton Cottrell was born on June 12, 1884. She made the trip to California and back with the rest. She had most of her education in the west, but graduated from a high school in Detroit since they returned. (Note: died March 28, 1954, burial in Marine City.)

(c)        Grace Submit Cottrell was born January 10, 1886. She too traveled to California and back. Most of her education was in the west. She graduated from a Detroit high school in June, 1904. (Note: married Charles F. Lathrop – three children: Janet E., Charles F., Jr., Eric A. Died Jan 6, 1954, Detroit.)

(d)       Marietta Elizabeth Cottrell was born on March 8, 1888, and died at Redlands, Cal., on April 29, 1893.

(e)        Joseph P. Cottrell was born October 5, 1889. He also lived in California about 12 years, and had considerable education there. He attends school in Detroit.

XII.   JEAN PATON WILSON was born on October 18, 1855. She was a faithful home worker, and did not teach school. In her sixteenth year she confessed her faith in Christ, and united with the Baptist Church, being baptized by her brother John, the pastor, February 12, 1871. On March 15, 1877, she was married to William Wilson, the son of a Scotch Presbyterian Minister, who was born in London, Canada, July 21, 1855. For a time they lived on several rented farms. Later they had a meat-market in Romeo, Mich. For several years they have lived at Lake Linden, Mich., where her husband is employed as a fireman in one of the stamping mills of the Calumet-Hecla mining company. They are members of the Congregational Church. (Note: died Dec. 1943)

William and Jean have had seven children: David Paton, Sarah J., John B., Alexander, William Robert, Donald L., and Glenn. All the living have the common school education, and the unmarried are at home with their parents.

(a)        David Paton Wilson was born on January 17, 1879. His home has been with his parents most of the time. For a while he worked at one of the stamping mills at take Linden, Mich. On May 4, 1903, he married Caroline Margaret Hoyt of Walled Lake, Mich. She was born May 20, 1876. He is in the Real Estate business, in the employ of the City and Suburban Homes Co., in Detroit. His address is Walled Lake, Mich.

David and Margaret have one child: James Hoyt.

(1)        James Hoyt Wilson (Hoyt), grandson of William and Jean Paton Wilson, was born on February 24, 1904.

(b)       Sarah J. Wilson (Sadie), as she is familiarly called, was born December 13, 1881. Her home has been with her parents nearly all her life. On June 25, 1903, she married George H. Currie. Their home is Lake Linden, Mich.

(Note: died Feb. 4, 1960 in Reno, Nev.)

(c)        John B. Wilson was born June 7, 1885. I think he is working in the stamping mill at Lake Linden.

(d)       Alexander Wilson was born April 28, 1888.

(e)        William Robert Wilson was born May 2, 1892. (Note: died Dec. 22, 1943.)

(f)        Donald L. Wilson was born September 28, 1895.

(g)        Glenn Wilson was born on March 19, 1900; died March 22, 1900.

XIII.   MARGARET ANN PATON PATON was born March 19, 1857. After getting the common school education, she spent a year in Oberlin College. She taught school about four years. On February 12, 1871, she was baptized by her brother John, and united with the Baptist Church. On March 26, 1878, she married her cousin John A. Paton of Armada, Mich. (See No. VII. of Uncle John's Descendants.)

Since the sketch of John A. Paton and his family was printed, Ruth Grace, their fourth child, was married to William Reed Sincock, August 24, 1904. He is twenty-seven years of age. He is an engineer in a Shaft House of the Calumet and Hecla Mining Co. Their home is in Red Jacket, Mich.

XIV.   AGNES PATON was born December 18, 1858, and died August 3, 1866, and was buried in the cemetery at the Presbyterian Church in the Scotch Settlement.

XV.   ROBERT PATON was born May 8, 1860. After getting the common school education, he reached out for more. At the age of 14, on May 15, 1874, he was baptized by Eld. Martelle, of Romeo, and received into the Almont Baptist Church, and soon manifested an inclination to be a minister of the Gospel. From the time of father's death, he took charge of the home farm for three years. He entered Oberlin Academy in 1881, took the Classical Course, and graduated with the class of 1888. Between these dates he was one year in the employ of brother Alexander in Shelby, Mich. He was Principal of the High School at New London, Wisconsin, two years from 1888 to 1890. He entered the Yale Divinity School in the autumn of 1890, and graduated with the class of 1893. During these years of study, he united with the Congregational church. After graduation he was called to the pastorate of the Congregational Churches of Brandon and Springvale, Wis., and began work there on January 1, 1894.

On January 24, 1894, he married Grace Mary Rossiter of New London, Wis. Two days later he was ordained to the Gospel Ministry at Brandon, Wis., where he was pastor until December 1, 1902. The church wanted to retain his services longer, but feeling that he could do more good in a new field, he accepted a call to become the pastor of the church in Carrington, North Dakota, where he is now – September 1904. He is an earnest worker, and seems to be quite successful in winning people to the service of Christ. He is intensely interested in whatever he believes to be for the present and eternal welfare of mankind. He is not dogmatic on the subject of human destiny, and believes that all salvation is through Jesus Christ.

Brother Robert tells the story of father's habit of insisting that the children in all their work, "Keep a clean front." Especially does he recall this in the sprouting of potatoes in the cellar, and says that the lesson there learned has been of service in many ways in his life work. Others of the family recall the same instruction received at such times. By the suggestion of Cousin Jean Leighton, this has been adopted as the Family Motto, in honor of our father's memory: "KEEP A CLEAN FRONT." (Note: Grace (wife) died Jan. 1943. Robert died Sept 11, 1959 at Chesterland, Ohio.)

Robert and Grace have four children: Beatrice Elizabeth, Doris, Annie and Robert Frederick.

(a)        Beatrice Elizabeth Paton was born at Brandon, Wisconsin on March 6, 1895.

(b)       Doris Paton was born at Brandon, Wisconsin, March 7, 1897.

(c)        Annie Paton was born at Brandon, Wisconsin, March 10, 1899.

(d)       Robert Frederick Paton was born at Brandon, Wisconsin, August 12, 1901.

XVI.   MARY GERTRUDE PATON ROLLINS (GERTRUDE) was born September 20, 1861. On March 4, 1877, she was baptized by Eld. Richardson of Romeo, and united with the Almont Baptist Church, of which she and her husband are now influential members, though not closely tied to its Articles of Faith. She was a teacher for about two years. On April 21, 1886, she married Frederick E. Rollins of Almont, Mich., the only child of his parents. He was born May 12, 1861. Their home has been just inside of Almont all these years, with the exception of six years that they lived in Opechee, Mich., from where they returned four years ago. Her husband is a farmer, but some other things require his attention.

This sister is one of the jolliest of women – a good illustration of the proverb, "Laugh, and grow fat." She makes pleasant merriment wherever she is. If people about her are glum it is not her fault. If being playful will keep anyone out of heaven, I am afraid she will never get in; but it does not seem that, made up as she is, she could be very miserable anywhere. She would be inclined to cheer others up, and help them to make the best of it. She may have blue spells enough to enable her to sympathize with the sorrowing. She is a good friend to have. She has caught the Spirit of Him of whom it is said: "The Lord is good to all, and his tender mercies are over all his works."

Frederick and Gertrude have five children: Helen Gertrude, Hazen Paton, Orlo George, Mary Faye and Robert Frederick.

(a)        Helen Gertrude Rollins was born in Almont, Mich., February 21, 1887. In addition to the home opportunity for education, she is taking a course of study in Oberlin College. She united with the Baptist Church in Laurium, Mich. Her home is with her parents at Almont.

(b)       Hazen Paton Rollins was born in Almont, Mich., February 12, 1889. He is with his parents, attends the Almont school, and is a member of the Almont Baptist Church.

(c)        Orlo George Rollins was born in Almont, Mich., August 19, 1891. He is with his parents, and attends the Almont school.

(d)       Mary Faye Rollins (Faye) was born in Almont, Mich., December 1, 1892. She is with her parents, and attends Almont school.

(e)        Robert Frederick Rollins was born in Almont, August 14, 1902.

XVII.   JAMES WOODBURN PATON was born October 23, 1863. In 1877 he was baptized by his brother John, and early in 1878 was received into the Almont Baptist Church, and has remained in fellowship with it ever since. He taught school for a time. On November 22, 1894, he married Helen Hunter Hopkin, of Scotch descent. She was born in Almont township September 15, 1870. She too is a member of the Baptist Church. When father's estate was settled, James bought eighty acres of the home place, where they live.

(Note: died July 19, 1943 at La Porte, Indiana.)

James and Helen have two children: Grace Forguson and Maurice Edward.

(a)        Grace Forguson Paton was born in Almont township, Mich., August 11, 1896. She has been attending the County Line School.

(b)       Maurice Edward Paton was born in Almont township, Mich., January 5, 1904.

XVIII.   ALLAN HAMILTON PATON was born November 29, 1864. In 1877 he was baptized by his brother John, and early in 1878 was received into the Almont Baptist Church, but now he and his wife are members of the Congregational Church at Laurium, Mich. In addition to the home school education, he attended Almont High School for considerable time, and for years taught in Tamarack, Mich. On June 22, 1894, he married Lizzie Trevarrow, of Welch descent, who was born in Phoenix, Keweenaw Co., Mich. For quite a number of years Allan has been employed in a Department Store in Laurium. (Note: died Dec. 5, 1938 at Ann Arbor, Mich; Elizabeth died April 16, 1957.)

Allan and Lizzie have three children: Dorothy Elizabeth, Esther Emma and Barbara Lois.

(a)        Dorothy Elizabeth Paton was born in Laurium, Mich., May 8, 1895.

(b)       Esther Emma Paton was born in Laurium, Mich., Dec. 12, 1898. (Note: married Benjamin Hathaway Eddy April 9, 1921 at Ann Arbor, Mich. He was born May 21, 1897. They have four children: Elizabeth Anne Eddy, b. Dec. 4, 1921; Barbara Lou Eddy, b. Sept. 24, 1923; Kathryn Joan Eddy, b. Nov. 21, 1924; Joyce Paton Eddy, b. Sept. 28, 1926.)

(c)        Barbara Lois Paton was born in Laurium, Mich., Aug. 4. 1903. (Note: married Raymond Grimes Eddy, brother of Benjamin H. Eddy, Aug. 11, 1933 at Ann Arbor, Mich. He was born June 4, 1895, at Ganges, Mich.)

(d)       Allan Hamilton Paton, Jr. (added by Lucile Thomas Marshall)

XIX.  GRACE PATON STEPHEN was born August 31, 1866. After getting the home school education, she took a course in Almont High School and also at State Normal School at Ypsilanti. On February 5, 1878, she was baptized by Eld. C. H. Richardson, the pastor, and united with the Almont Baptist Church; but now, on account of location and circumstances, she and her husband have united with the M. E. Church. She says she cares but little for any particular denomination, but wants to be where she can do the most good. On August 17, 1894, she was married to John W. Stephen, who was born of Scotch parents in Armada township, Mich., on May 21, 1863. They both have been teachers for many years, and are now teaching in the schools in Painesdale, Mich. (Note: Grace died in 1928.)

John and Grace have two children: Paton Carlyle and Kathryn Elizabeth.

(a)        Paton Carlyle Stephen was born at Laurium, Mich., August 30, 1896.

(b)       Kathryn Elizabeth Stephen was born at Tamarack, Mich., September 8, 1898.

XX.   THOMAS PATON was born February 22, 1869. He was only nine years of age when father died. After using the home school opportunity, he reached after a higher education. He took a course at the State Normal College in Ypsilanti, Mich., and became a teacher. For several years he was Superintendent of the Schools in Iron Mountain, Mich. (1893‑1898). Before that, on June 10, 1888, he was baptized by Pastor Gardner, and united with the Almont Baptist Church. On August 1, 1895, he married Mame Pickett of Leslie, Mich. She was born on November 23, 1872. She, too, is a Baptist, and they both remain in that denomination. They have no children. In 1898 he gave up teaching and moved to Ann Arbor, Mich., where he took a four-year medical course in the State University, and graduated in 1902. Since then he has been a practicing Physician and Surgeon in Ypsilanti, Mich., and is successful. (Note: died Feb. 10, 1939; Mary (Mame) died Oct. 29, 1950.)

W I L L I A M' S   D E S C E N D A N T' S

I regret that I am able to say but little concerning the family of this Uncle. He had (by two marriages) seven children – Agnes, John, Bithiah, William, Alice, Annie and Beatrice. (I am not sure of the exact order.) As far as I know, only two of these have been married – Bithiah and William. (no living relatives) 

I.   AGNES PATON was born in Galston, Scotland, June 3, 1844. Her mother did not live very long after that. For a time the babe was cared for by her aunt, Mrs. Elizabeth Paton Hamilton, who lived in Strathaven. After her father married again, she was taken home. Early in her teens she came to Michigan, and again lived with Uncle John Hamilton and "Auntie Bettie". After Auntie's death (which was in March 1875), Agnes continued to live with Uncle John until May 1890. From that time she lived in Pontiac, Mich., where she died on July 9, 1891. She was buried beside Auntie Bettie in the cemetery at the Presbyterian Church in the Scotch Settlement.

From early childhood she was an earnest Christian. She was baptized by Pastor Williams May 1, 1864, and received into the Almont Baptist Church. Later, she became a member of the Almont Congregational Church, and continued in that relation to the end.

II.   JOHN PATON was born April 28, 1852. He has been an active businessman. When I saw him in 1897, he was at home with his mother and several sisters in Nottingham, England.

III.   BITHIAH PATON HASTIE was born August 21, 1854. While her sister Agnes was living, she came to America and made us a visit. Later she married William Hastie, of the firm of J. Hastie & Co., Engineers, of Greenock, Scotland. It was from them that we received a letter of welcome when our vessel arrived in the harbor at Greenock, August 17, 1897. On September 9, 1897, we spent a very pleasant day with them at their Summer Resort. I do not remember their children's names. In June, this year, word came that Mr. Hastie is dead, and that Bithiah is living at Southport, England.

IV.   ANNIE PATON was born March 31, 1856 in England.

V.   ALICE PATON was born January 5, 1858 in England.

VI.   WILLIAM HENRY PATON was born January 1, 1860. When quite a young man, he came to America to engage in the cotton business. He made us a visit at Almont. At first he was in the employ of Cousin Alexander Allan Paton. I saw him at New Orleans in February 1885. Later he engaged in the cotton business on his own account. He was married to Kate Estes. They had no children. The report has come that he died in Mobile, Alabama, in April 1902.

VII.   MARGARET ADA ALEXANDRA was born March 17, 1863 in England.

VIII.   BEATRICE CUNNINGHAM was born August 19, 1867 in England.

R O B E R T' S   D E S C E N D A N T S

Uncle Robert was born in Galston, Scotland on Thursday, July 8, 1819. In 1842[97] he was married to Mary Ann Todd. She was born in Glasgow, Scotland, of Irish parents – (Protestants) in 1819. She died on February 26, 1880. (See the letter written by Robert's son John regarding Robert and his family beginning on page 17[98].) Robert and Mary had eight children, they are:

I.   AGNES PATON KINLOCH was born in 1843[99]. In 1862[100] she was married to John Kinloch.

By this marriage there are nine children (all alive) – James[101], Mary, Agnes, Annie, Robert, Joan, John, Jenny, Silverette.

(a)        James Kinloch was born in 1863[102], and was married in 1903.

(b)        Mary Kinloch Currie was born in 1865[103], and in 1890 was married to Mr. Currie. They have four children.

(c)        Agnes Kinloch Findlay was born in 1868[104], and in 1901 was married to John Findlay.

(d)       Annie Kinloch Baker was born in 1871[105], and in 1895 was married to Charles Baker. They have three children.

(e)        Robert Kinloch was born in 1874[106].

(f)         Joan Kinloch was born in 1877[107].

(g)        John Kinloch was born in 1880[108].

(h)        Jennie Kinloch was born in 1883[109].

(i)         Silverette Kinloch was born in 1887[110]. As this ninth child was born in their Silver Wedding year, and also the Jubilee year of Queen Victoria, the parents emphasized the fact by calling her Silverette.

II.  JOHN PATON was born in 1845. On June 26, 1868, he was married to Agnes Young, who was born in Beith, Ayrshire, Scotland. He learned the wood carving trade in his early manhood. They came to America in the Spring of 1870, had their home in Hartford, Connecticut, and returned to Scotland in the Spring of 1877. Though living in Glasgow, he has for many years been engaged in mushroom farming in Edinburgh, going and coming nearly every day. To this cousin we are indebted for the very interesting sketch of his father’s life.

John and Agnes have six children – Jeanie Stewart, Robina Allan, Mary Todd, John, Agnes and Annie. They are all living, four of them are married, and there are seven grandchildren.

(a)        Jeanie Stewart Paton Rigby was born in Paisley, Scotland, on March 29, 1869, and was married in 1894 to Walter Rigby. They have two children.

(b)       Robina Allan Paton Cherry was born in Hartford, Connecticut, May 4, 1871, and was married in 1893 to Robert Cherry. They have three children.

(c)        Mary Todd Paton Flinn was born in Hartford, Connecticut, September 12, 1873, and was married in 1894 to William Flinn. They have two children.

(d)       John Paton was born in Hartford, Connecticut in 1876. When I saw him in 1897, he spoke with pleasure of being an American Citizen.

(e)        Agnes Young Paton Murray was born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1878, and was married in June 1904 to John Murray.

(f)        Annie Paton was born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1880. She is still at home with her parents.

III.   JANET PATON was born in 1847, and died in 1853.

IV.   ROBERT PATON was born in 1849. In 1882 he was married to Jessie McTaggart of Dunure, Ayreshire, Scotland. He is a whole­sale potato merchant in Glasgow. Their home is in Lenzie, near Glasgow.

Robert and Jessie have had ten children – Daisy, Evelyn, Robert, Jessie, Beryl, Samuel, David, William, Margaret and her twin who died. Eight of these children are living.

(a)        Daisy Paton was born in 1883 and died in 1893.

(b)       Evelyn Paton was born in 1886.

(c)        Robert Paton was born in 1887.

(d)       Jessie Paton was born in 1889.

(e)        Beryl Paton was born in 1890.

(f)        Samuel Paton was born in 1892.

(g)        David Paton was born in 1894.

(h)       William Paton was born in 1896.

(i)         Margaret Paton was born in 1898.

V.   SAMUEL PATON was born in 1851, and died before he was a year old.

VI.   SAMUEL PATON was born in 1854, was married to Agnes Russel in 1879, and died in 1887.

Samuel and Agnes had four children – Robert, Samuel, Charles and Maggie.

(a)        Robert Paton was born in 1880, and was drowned at sea, near Jamaica, by falling from the mast of a ship on which he was employed, in June 1904.

(b)       Samuel Paton was born in 1881.

(c)        Charles Paton was born in 1883.

(d)       Maggie Paton was born in 1885.

VII.   MARY ANNE PATON was born in 1856, and died under one year old.

VIII.   ANNIE PATON RAMSAY was born in 1861, and was married in 1883 to Peter Ramsay.

Annie and Peter have had six children – Peter, Robert, May, Elizabeth, Annie and Alexander.

(a)        Peter Ramsay was born in 1884, and died in 1885.

(b)       Robert Ramsay was born in 1886.

(c)        May Ramsay was born in 1888.

(d)       Elizabeth Ramsay was born in 1890.

(e)        Annie Ramsay was born in 1897.

(f)        Alexander Ramsay was born in 1899.

This record shows that Uncle Robert has had eight children, 35 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren – in all, 57 descendants. Of these, four children, 31 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren – in all 49 – are living.

It was in March, 1870, that Uncle Robert left Glasgow, to come to Michigan, where he arrived early in April, so that he was with us only about six months.

A P P E N D I X

The object of this appendix is to give as far as possible the changes in the Family up to date – March 25, 1905.

ALEXANDER  ALLAN  PATON.

(See Page 25)

"Cousin Allan," as we in American familiarly called him, was the best known here of our Old Country Cousins. He had a warm place in our hearts. I had a very pleasant visit with him in New York on June 15, 16, and 17, 1904. His daughters Mary and Katherine were with him – Alice having gone out to see some friends in an adjoining State. They were about to sail for England. He expressed the hope that he might arrange to be at our Family Reunion in 1905. But soon after his return to England, the sad news came that he was stricken with paralysis, which resulted in his death on September 8th. "The Liverpool Courier" of September 9th. said of him:

"The deceased gentleman was in his 67th year, and is survived by a son and four daughters. He was a genial Scotsman, a native of Ayrshire, but a great portion of his career had been spent in active business pursuits outside the bounds of Scotia. In early life he resided in America, and became well acquainted with the industrial and commercial affairs of the States. For the most part his energies were devoted to railway work, and ere his departure for England he had risen to a prominent position in the railway world. His association with Liverpool commenced nearly twenty years ago, when he became partner with his brother in the firm of A. B. Paton and Co., under which title the business of cotton merchants was carried on. Subsequently he joined Mr. G. S. Maclaren, and for about fifteen years they were in partnership under the name of Paton, Maclaren, and Co., cotton merchants, Tithebarn Street. Mr. Paton and Mr. Maclaren both retired from active participation in the firm a year ago. Apart from his success as a cotton merchant, Mr. Paton's business acumen was highly appreciated in connection with various other concerns, notably the State Fire Insurance Co., and Messrs. Bryant and May, Ltd., of which he was a director."

The same paper shows that Allan was popular, not only with the Cotton Association, “but with all classes of commercial men". "He was returned unopposed as the Liberal representative for the Exchange Ward on the City Council". I knew him as an easy public speaker, but the paper says: "In committee and in council he was more of a worker than a talker. He proved himself an amiable and far-seeing colleague, and his loss will be felt by political friends and opponents alike." He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce; on the committee of the Conway School Ship; a director of the Bevington Bush People's Home; a member of the Philharmonic Society and the Liverpool Reform Club; vice-chairman, and one of the most enthusiastic supporters of the British Cotton Growing Association; and a prominent member of the Sefton Park Presbyterian Church. On the day that we listened together to Dr. Watson, he told me of his faith in the largest view of the gospel, and the full success of Christ.

His funeral took place on Saturday, September 10th, at Childwall Parish Church. Before the interment a service was conducted in the Sefton Park Presbyterian Church. In the "Liverpool Mercury" of September 12th, I find the following:

"The Rev. Dr. Watson [Ian Maclaren], who conducted the service, briefly addressed the mourners assembled. He said nobody could know for certain what subtle enemy might be lying in wait for his neighbor's life; but, certainly, the friends of Mr. Paton pleased themselves by thinking that he was in his full strength and had many years before him. They were pleased not only because he was a most kind‑hearted man himself, doing many a good turn which would never be known and wishing every person well, but because they hoped that he would devote his talents to the service of the city and of the State. He was the kind of man whom every patriotic citizen would like to see in public affairs, and in whose hands such affairs might safely lie. Unto the shrewdness and perseverance of his nation he had added that quickness and flexibility of intellect which distinguished the American people. Not only had he a genial manner, which enabled him to meet with men of various opinions without offense, but he had also a genial intellect, which made itself at home in new conditions of work and society. He took a large and statesman-like view of things, believing that it was better that labour and capital should agree to work together as partners, rather than fight to their mutual injury as rivals, and considering that a sudden dearth of raw material in any industry should quicken sensible men to develop the resources of the Empire. He was willing to devote his knowledge of business and of life, his grasp of principles, and his skilful management of circumstances, to the public welfare, both in trade and commerce, both in the government of the city and the work of the Christian Church. As a deacon of that congregation, he took a keen interest in its affairs, and rendered special help some years ago in connection with the Earl Road Church. He shared with his distinguished brother, Dr. Paton, of Nottingham, a profound and practical sympathy with the social reformation of society, and was willing to labour, if his life had been spared, with all his might, that the people should have open spaces, fresh air, and that they should also have access to the treasures of art and literature. Personally, as his minister, he (Doctor Watson) mourned Mr. Paton's death for many reasons, but he was also convinced that the Council and people of Liverpool had suffered a great loss by his removal just as he had entered with a large capital of knowledge and experience upon what they had hoped would be a long and distinguished career of public service. According to the number of such able and honorable men in the City Council, men whose management of their own affairs was a pledge that they could manage those of the commonwealth, and whose only end was the welfare of the same, would their local Parliament win the confidence of the citizens and become more and more what already it was in a great measure, an example of wise enterprise and humane government to the other cities of the land."

The following is a copy of the last letter which Cousin Allan wrote to his brother John:

Oneida, Sefton Park, July 9, 1904

My Dear Brother:

Many thanks for your kind letter. This is the first time that I have been obliged to rest because of overwork, but I have learned that the body will not stand too much of a strain, and that no matter how much the spirit is willing, years as they pass tell on the amount of work we can do.

Songs of thanksgiving do mingle every day with the songs of rest, and few men have more reason for thankfulness than I. Long years of busy life, and yet with changing scenes, I have had. A measure of success and ability to help others has been my lot, and therefore I give thanks daily and hourly. I am glad you saw Cousin Janet. We had a delightful visit from her some time ago.

I hope you will be able to take a good rest this summer. Mary is looking out for some country place, where we may all enjoy rest and gain strength.

With love to all yours,   I remain   Your loving Brother, Allan.

JANET PATON FINDLAY.

(See Page 29)

On January 25th, I received notice that Cousin Janet, of Prestwick, Scotland, died on Sunday, January 8, 1905. Her age was 63 years. Word received on March 22nd, tells me that the fatal disease was Influenza. The report says that she lived a pure life, was a faithful follower of the blessed Saviour, and was greatly comforted in her last hours by the gospel hope. This hope is a great consolation to those who are left.

HELEN  MACFARLANE  DUNCAN.

(See Page 30)

"Nellie," as her mother calls her, was married on September 20, 1904, to Alexander G. Duncan. He was born on June 29, 1876. He is a Draughtsman, and when the word came was in the employ of the Cambria Steel Co., Johnstown, Pa. Their home is in that place.

George Wilber Paton is now publishing the "Almont Record." (See page 47.)

Nora Edith Paton Robinson, her husband and family are now located at Hanover, Mich. (See page 47.)

            (2)  Phyllis Paton.

Phyllis, granddaughter of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in Detroit, on October 3, 1904. She is the second child of David William Paton. (See page 48.)

            (1)  Sarah Louise Pennington.

Louise, granddaughter of John H. and Sarah E. Paton, was born in Traverse City, Mich., on September 22, 1904. She is the first child of Christina E. Paton Pennington. (See page 48.)

Our brother ALEXANDER and his family returned to Shelby, Mich., in the Autumn of 1904, as he expected. (See page 50.)

Arthur Light Paton holds a letter from the Congregational Church at Ann Arbor, Mich. (See page 52.)

Marion Laura Paton is a member of the Congregational Church at Ypsilanti, Michigan. Since October 3, 1904, she has been teaching in Straight University, New Orleans, La., under the auspices of the American Missionary Association. (See page 52.)

Our brother THOMAS writes me that he and his wife have taken letters from the Baptist Church at Ann Arbor, Mich., and will likely unite with the Presbyterian Church at Ypsilanti, Mich. (See page 57.)

Incidentally, I have heard that Evelyn Paton, daughter of Cousin Robert, of Lenzie, near Glasgow, Scotland, died late in 1904. (See page 63.)

I am told that our Grandfather (father's father) was careful that Grandmother should not be compelled to do any hard work before her little ones were a year old. His example in this may be worthy of imitation.

This history has grown far beyond the original plan – even far beyond what was anticipated at our Reunion in June 1904. The change includes the adding of the many halftone pictures which appear in the book. It has been confidently anticipated that all this would meet the approval of the whole Family. It would be a wonder if I had made no mistakes, either by saying too much or too little. I may have erred in judgment. Some of the dates may be wrong. I have done my best under all the circumstances.

It has required much time and labor; had I foreseen it all, I would hardly have dared to undertake the task; yet it has been a labor of joy and love; and I hope that all who read the History may share the pleasure I have had in writing and compiling it. I sincerely hope and pray that it may be an encouragement of the good, the pure and the true in the whole Paton Family and all with whom they may associate.

JOHN H. PATON

Summer 1989

Note: It has also been a pleasure to put this on the word processor so that members of the Paton family who do not have a copy of this book can read this exciting story. It is one of the most fascinating books I have ever read. It is too bad that this version of the history is not blessed with the pictures of the family that the first book had, but we had no way to make good copies of them.

I can say with John H. Paton that it would be a miracle if I have made no mistakes. A few updates have been made from the original, but not very many. Thanks to Lucile Swain Hough, who loaned me the originals of the letters from William Paton to his daughter Agnes(s) and to John Hamilton and Auntie Bettie, the entire text of the letters is in this version. In one of William's letters to Agnes, he asked if his writing was too small. If he had asked me, I would have said "Yes". I used a magnifying glass a lot of the time. Little did I know at the time I started to put those letters on the computer that a copy of the Paton History would be loaned to us. I didn't know there was such a book. It surely has been interesting and filled a lot of days.

Lucile Thomas Marshall,

wife of William W. Marshall,

who is the son of Muriel Joy Paton Marshall

June 2003

Soon after I established, in 2002, my connection with the line of descent from the marriage of John Paton and Ann Allan of Galston, Ayrshire, I was fortunate to be sent by Jim Paton of Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, a copy of Lucile Thomas Marshall’s 1989 transcription of Paton Family History. The sharing of information between the present day, far flung, members of the Paton Family has been a feature of the Paton web site at MyFamily.com which was started by Lyn Blake Schwartz early in 2002. It was in this context that I determined to make an electronic copy of, at least, the pages that contain the major genealogical information. This has left the task of transcribing the correspondence between family members, memoirs of individual family members and details of family reunions held in the early Twentieth Century to another day.

The 1989 version was scanned into a MS Word document using OmniPage Pro 9. As noted on page 1, the opportunity has been taken to add by way of footnotes; comments, additional information and the odd correction. Some formatting changes have been made, but the overriding intention has been to maintain the originality of the 1989 edition. This task has been completed as a collaborative effort, with input by Lyn Blake Schwartz and Bill Laidman. Bill also proofed the scanned copy and helped with formatting. Lyn is my 4^th Cousin and Bill, 4^th Cousin once removed. Lyn lives in Michigan while Bill and I live at opposite ends of the Australian continent. Achieving this end was only possible through contact by email.

Technology has certainly come a long way since Lucile Marshall transcribed Paton Family History. Yet, to have included in this document the pictures of the family that were included in the printed, 1905 edition, would have defeated the object of making this file portable. However, all these pictures have been posted to the MyFamily.com/now SPOKT web site by Lyn. 

The 1905 edition included an index of names mentioned in the text and Bill Laidman has volunteered to produce such an index for this edition, including those mentioned in footnotes.

It is envisaged that this document be updated with further comment, additional information or correction on a regular basis. It is not our intention, however, to use this document to bring the lines of descent down to the present day. Information by way of footnote will only be included for the generation mentioned in the original text. Initially, we propose a six monthly interval between updates. Please send submissions to the coordinator of this project:

David Kinloch

---

[1] This page was not included in the 1905 publication.

[2] There is some debate over the birth date of John Paton. Dane Love, in Scottish Covenanter Stories (p. 109) says the birth was “about the year 1615”. If he was born in 1604, then he would have been about 75 at the time of his last battle at Bothwell Bridge, in 1679 and about 80 when he was executed in 1684. On the other hand, if he did fight in the army of Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden, at Lutzen in 1632 [as Dane Love asserts], he would have been a very young combatant, if born in 1615. The Paton Family History website, freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~rnmh/patonfamilyhistory.html says that John Paton was born about 1614, but gives no source for this information.

[3] More usually Artnoch, or occasionally Airtnoch.

[4] Probably a variant of Eaglesham, a parish in Ayrshire.

[5] Lucile’s transcription omitted the new paragraph and the text flowed into the following paragraph.

[6] Lucile’s transcription omitted the new paragraph and the text flowed into the following paragraph.

[7] This was the British sailing ship, the Conway (Auntie )

[8] Actually Mary Gertrude, see p. 15.

[9] Lucile’s transcription omitted the new paragraph and the text flowed into the following paragraph.

[10] “Fenwickshire” is misleading. Fenwick was both a town and parish in Ayrshire, but not a shire.

[11] Lucile’s transcription omitted the new paragraph and the text flowed into the following paragraph.

[12] Now known as Eastern Michigan University.

[13] Lucile’s transcription omitted the new paragraph and the text flowed into the following paragraph.

[14] The dates given here from Scots Worthies are inconsistent with pp 3 and 4 and elsewhere. (Dane Love’s Scottish Covenantor Stories p. 111: Captain John Paton was tried on April 16, 1684; executed on May 9, 1684,).

[15] Lucile’s transcription omitted the new paragraph and the text flowed into the following paragraph.

[16] Alexander was born in July 1747 and died on Apr 15, 1816 (per Jay Keith Reid, a descendant of Ann Allan Paton Low, daughter of James Paton and Jacobina Osborne).

[17] Lucile omitted to give emphasis to the word “early” that was given by John H Paton in the 1905 publication.

[18] This paragraph was omitted from Lucile’s transcription. Note: Margaret Paton Golden was the oldest daughter of John Paton and Margaret Wilson.

[19] The Chapter Heading in the 1905 publication reads: Family of John Paton and is followed  by: The following is a brief history of the thirteen children of our Grandfather and Grandmother Paton:-

[20] Spelt Elisabeth in previous pages.

[21] Spelt as Agness elsewhere in the text. In his letters to her and to the Hamiltons, William Paton uses both   forms.

[22] In the 1880 United States Census Agnes took the surname Hamilton (NA Film # T9-0589, page 107D).

[23] In the 1851 Census, the family of Alexander and Mary was recorded living at 38 Hospital Street, Hutchestontown, Glasgow, Lanarkshire. At this time Alexander was a clerk in a Cotton Mill. [Note: the family of brother, James lived at 34 Hospital Street in 1851; the family of brother Robert, nearby, at 49 South Coburg Street, Bridgeton].

[24] Kilmarnock District gravestone inscriptions by the Scottish Genealogical Society record his death on Nov 16, 1880.

[25] The Galston Parish Records confirm the birth date as July 24, 1807.

[26] In Ayrshire, a “Flesher” was a Butcher.

[27] James and Robina had eight children, see p. 35, under Descendants of James.

[28] Surviving daughter, Ann, and son, James, emigrated with their mother to America, see p. 35.

[29] The Galston Parish Register, in the record of her marriage to David Paton, confirms the spelling of her given name as Christian. It may be that her baptismal name was Christian, but she was familiarly called Christina.

[30] There were seven children from the marriage of William and Jean Cunningham, Margaret Ada Paton is omitted here. The children are listed in chronological order on p. 59 under Descendants of William.

[31] Spelt elsewhere as Bithiah.

[32] Lucile took the opportunity to rewrite this and the following paragraph to include information contained in the August 17, 1904 letter from Robert’s son, John Paton, which was not to hand when this section of Paton Family History was printed for the original 1905 publication.

[33] Contemporary newspaper accounts (Times of London, Chicago Tribune and Belfast News-Letter) state that the sole survivor was one of the crew, John McGartland

[34] In the 1905 publication, this letter was included in the section Robert’s Descendants.

[35] See previous footnote on p. 17.

[36] It would appear that Lucile Thomas Marshall corrected the earlier reference on page 16 when she transcribed this family history in 1989.

[37] The Loudoun Parish register states that John Brown Paton was born in Newmilns. He died in 1911 (Robert Mellors in Men of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, p.286).

[38] Carol Paton was born in Sheffield, Yorkshire in 1860/61 (aged 20 years in 1881 Census of England).

[39] The 1901 Census records the family of Thomas Figgis, an Architect, aged 42, born Boostertown, Dublin, and Caroline, 40, b. Sheffield living in Kensington, London, with children Lennox, 8, and Gordon, 6, both b. Kensington. See also footnote on p. 24 regarding information contained in the obituary of Mary Paton.

[40] His full name was Alfred Vaughan Paton. He was the President of the Liverpool Cotton Association 1917‑1918 (Liverpool Cotton Assn.  web site). He was later knighted (named Sir Alfred Vaughan Paton in obituary of his sister Mary - see footnote on p.24).

[41] Born in Sheffield, Yorkshire in 1861/62 (aged 19 in 1881 Census of England).

[42]Jessie M Paton is recorded  as daughter, aged 11, b. Nottingham, England. This is probably either Muriel or Mary mentioned in the text (1881 Census of England).  Mary died about Oct, 1944 (in her obituary, the St John's, Newfoundland, Daily News, dated Oct 30, 1944, states of her brother John Lewis Paton: "There were six in his family: sisters Mary, Muriel and Mrs Figgis; brothers William and Sir Alfred Vaughan).

[43] Full name Morton Brown Paton was born in Nottingham, England in 1871/72 (aged 9 in 1881 Census of England). In WWI, served and fell at Gallipoli, Turkey (Commonwealth War Graves Commission: Captain Morton Brown Paton, South Lancashire Regiment,  Attd. 6th Bn. Lancashire Fusiliers, who died age 44 on Saturday, 7 August 1915. Captain Paton, son of the Rev. Dr. John Brown Paton and Mrs Jessie Paton, of Nottingham. Cotton Merchant of Liverpool. Formerly of Balliol College, Oxford. Remembered with honour, Helles Memorial).

[44] See footnote 5, on page 6.

[45] Died Oct 29, 1913 at Hareshawmuir (Kilmarnock District gravestone transcriptions by the Genealogical Society of Scotland).

[46] Maria C Crowshaw Paton was b. c. 1842 in New York State (1880 US Census).

[47] In 1880 the family were living in St Louis, Missouri (1880 US Census), Alexander Allan Paton was recorded as A. A. Paton and stated to be 48 years [should be 43].

[48] The family were recorded, living at Toxteth Park, Liverpool in 1901 (1901 Census of England).

[49] Mary E. B. Paton was b. c. 1867 in Michigan (aged 13 in 1880 US Census).

[50] Edith A. Paton was b. c. 1869 in Michigan (aged 11 in 1880 US Census).

[51] Alice A. Paton was b. in Tennessee (1880 US Census).

[52] Allan Paton was b. in Michigan (1880 US Census - Note: named Alexander A. Paton, aged 6; also named Alexander, aged 27 and described as Cotton Merchant in 1901 Census of England).

[53] Arthur J Paton was b. in Michigan (1880 US Census).

[54] In the 1881 Census of England, Annie was aged 40, unmarried and an Annuitant, living in the household of her brother, Andrew Brown Paton, at Victoria Road, Irvine Bank, Great Crosby, Lancashire.

[55] John was born on Oct 28, 1828 in Galston (OPR, Galston, Ayrshire, Births-Marriages 1820-1854, p. 34).

[56] John and Martha married on May 31, 1851 in Galston (OPR, Galston, Ayrshire, Births-Marriages 1820-1854, p. 193).

[57] Agnes married Robert McGee on Dec 2, 1870 at Galston (Scottish Civil Record) and they had four children: Martha, Mary, James and John (1881 Census of Scotland).

[58] Helen married John Barr, who was from Strathaven, Lanarkshire, born c. 1846/47 (aged 34 in 1881 Census of Scotland). They married at Galston on Apr 2, 1875 (Scottish Civil Records). A daughter, Janet, was born c.1876 (aged 4 in 1881 Census of Scotland).

[59] Martha married William Finnie at Galston on Jul 26, 1872 (Scottish Civil Record) and they had four children: Janet, John, James and David (1881 Census of Scotland).

[60] Robert was born c. 1849 in Riccarton, Ayrshire and was a Coal Miner; the family name was spelt McGhee (1881 Census of Scotland).

[61] John and Janet married on Apr 20, 1860 at Kilmarnock, Ayrshire (Scottish Civil Record). The Scottish Civil Record, Scottish Birth Index and Census returns for 1871, 1881 and 1891 show eight children: Andrew born Nov 9, 1860; Jean b. Dec 7, 1862; Jessie b. Apr 28, 1865; Elizabeth b. Jan 26, 1867; Thomas b. Sep 29, 1869; Mary b. Dec 10, 1871 and died 1873; Isabella b. Jan 25, 1874 and Marion b. 1876.

[62] Alexander was born on Nov 28, 1830 in Galston (OPR Galston, Ayrshire, Births-Marriages 1820-1854, p. 44).

[63] Andrew married Margaret Smith on Aug 22, 1872 at Barmill, Galston (Scottish Civil Record).

[64] Andrew and Margaret had eleven children: Alexander; James Smith; Annie; Margaret; Elizabeth; Jean; Andrew; Helen; Agnes; William and James Robert.

[65] Robert was born c. 1853/54 (aged 7 in 1861 Census of Scotland).

[66] Robert married Mary Lamont (in Family Tree constructed by Andrew and James Paton in 1973).

[67] Robert and Mary's children were: Alexander; William; Margaret and Elizabeth (1973 Family Tree).

[68] Margaret was born on July 9, 1855 in Galston (Scottish Civil Record).

[69] Helen was born on Sep 12, 1859 in Galston (Scottish Civil Record).

[70] Alexander was born on Sep 4, 1857 in Galston (Scottish Civil Record). He was drowned at sea on Jun 4 1891, and is buried at Kobe, Japan (1973 Family Tree).

[71] Elizabeth, the first child of that name was born on Dec 11, 1861 in Galston and died there on May 12, 1874 (Scottish Civil Record).

[72] Marion was born in Galston, on Feb 24, 1864, and died there in 1887 (Scottish Civil Record).

[73] William was born in Galston, on Sep 15, 1868, and died there in 1889 (Scottish Civil Record).

[74] Annie was born in Galston, on Jun 16, 1867, and died there on Oct 6, of the same year (Scottish Civil Record).

[75] Janet was born in Galston on May 6, 1866 (Scottish Civil Record).

[76] John was born in Galston on Aug 28, 1871 (Scottish Civil Record).

[77] John married L. Caldwell (1973 Family Tree).

[78] Agnes was born in Galston on Oct 9, 1873 (Scottish Civil Record).

[79] Agnes married W. Thompson (1973 Family Tree).

[80] Lizzie (the second Elizabeth) was born in Galston about 1876 (aged 4, living at Tichfield Street, Galston, 1881 Census). She never married and died in Galston on Mar 16, 1971 (1973 Family Tree and Solicitor's letter to beneficiaries).

[81] Mary Ann was born in Galston, Nov 27, 1832 (OPR, Galston, Births-Marriages 1820-1854, p. 53).

[82] Mary Ann and Archibald were married in Galston, Jun 4, 1853 (OPR, Galston, Births-Marriages 1820-1854, p. 201).

[83] Helen was born in Galston on Aug 8, 1835 (OPR, Galston, Births-Marriages 1820-1854, p. 66).

[84] Elizabeth was born in Galston on Feb 4, 1836 (I Gilchrist [1966] in addendum to Descendants of Alexander Paton [by James R Paton, 1903] ).

[85] Marion was born in Galston on Apr 2, 1838, and died there on Jan 25, 1849 (I Gilchrist [1966] in addendum to Descendants of Alexander Paton [by James R Paton, 1903] ).

[86] William was born in Galston on Jan 8, 1843, and died there on Sep 8, of that same year (I Gilchrist [1966] in addendum to Descendants of Alexander Paton [by James R Paton, 1903] ).

[87] Ann was born in Galston on Jan 13, 1845, and died there on Jun 13, of the same year (I Gilchrist [1966] in addendum to Descendants of Alexander Paton [by James R Paton, 1903] ).

[88] Janet was born in Galston on Aug 26, 1841 (I Gilchrist [1966] in addendum to Descendants of Alexander Paton [by James R Paton, 1903] ).

[89] Andrew was born in Galston on Nov 8, 1847 (I Gilchrist [1966] in addendum to Descendants of Alexander Paton [by James R Paton, 1903] ).

[90] Robert was born in Galston, Jan 10, 1849 (I Gilchrist [1966] in addendum to Descendants of Alexander Paton [by James R Paton, 1903] ).

[91] Harry was a nickname; his correct legal name was Henry A. Blake.

[92]Three children were born subsequent to the publication of Paton Family History in 1905, Jean Virginia, John Paton and James Allan (per Lyn Blake Schwartz).

[93] James Paton was born on  April 1, 1811, at Burnhead, Galston (Galston Parish Records) and married in 1840 (Ancestral File) This source also includes the marriage record of James Paton and Jacobina (aka Robina) Wills Osborne on Feb 1, 1840 at Galston; there is an Auchinleck, Ayrshire, Parish Record that states James Paton married Jacobina Osburne (sic) on Jun 17, 1840.

[94] Ancestral File lists ten children:

Margaret, born on Nov 28, 1840 at Old Cumnock, Ayrshire, died on Dec 11, 1851 in Scotland;

Ann Allan, b. on Oct 29, 1842 at Dalkieth, Midlothian, married Sylvester Low on Feb 28, 1858, d. on Dec 13, 1905 in Smithfield, Cache, Utah;

John Osborne, b. on May 15, 1844 in Strathaven, Lanarkshire, d. in 1853 in Scotland; Robert, b. on Apr 16, 1847 in Galston, died in 1853;

James Osborne, b. on May 13, 1848 in Kilmarnock or Kilmaurs, Ayrshire, m. Rachel Anne Hall. James d. on Jan 5, 1910 at Preston, Oneida, Idaho;

Sophia Kelsy, b. on Jul 9, 1849 and d. in 1853 in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire,

Janet Sophia Kelsey (sic), b. on Jul 9, 1849 [clearly a duplication];

Joseph Eli B. Kelsy, b. on Dec 8, 1850 in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire and d. in 1853;

Jean Jacobina, b. on Apr  5, 1852 in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire and

Millicent Sophia, b. Sep 12, 1857 in Salt Lake City, Utah, d. in 1929 [a questionable record submitted in 1996 - the person who submitted this record died in March 2002].

In the 1851 Census the family of John and Jacobina Paton is recorded living at 34 Hospital Street, Hutchestontown, Glasgow, Lanarkshire [Note: the family of eldest brother, Alexander, were living at 38 Hospital Street and that of Robert, nearby, in South Coburg Street].  James is described as a Clock Maker, aged 39, b. in Galston; Jacobina, his wife was 37,  b. in Galston; Margaret, 10, b. in Midlothian; James 8, b. in Ayrshire, Kilm….; Janet Sophia, 1, b. in Ayrshire, Kilmarnock and Joseph, 3 months, also b. in Kilmarnock. Significantly, sons, John Osborne and Robert, were not recorded as living with the family in 1851 which throws some doubt on the death dates recorded in Ancestral File.

[95] Ann Allan and James Osborne Paton accompanied their mother to America (see above).

[96] The 1880 United States Census records the family of Alexander living at Almont, Michigan (NA film T9‑0589, page 107D: Alexander aged 31, b. in Scotland, Clerk in Store; Harriet, 31, b. in Michigan of English parents, Keeping House and son, James, 10, b. in Michigan).

[97] Robert and Mary Anne married on 15 Jul 1842 at St Luke’s Quod Sacra Church, Calton, Glasgow (Parish Record).

[98] As noted earlier on page 16, Lucile took the opportunity to rewrite that section to include information contained in the August 17, 1904 letter from Robert’s son, John Paton. It is at this point in the text that John H Paton corrected and supplemented his earlier statement about Robert. The text of John Paton’s letter then followed.

[99] Agnes was born on Oct 4, 1843 (Parish Record).

[100] Agnes and John married on Dec 31, 1862 at 29 Eglinton Street, Tradeston, Glasgow (Marriage Certificate).

[101] The correct chronological order of birth is Mary, James, Agnes, Annie, Robert, Joan, John, Jennie and Silverette.

[102] James was born on Feb 22, 1866 (IGI, sourced from Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages 1855-1875). James was aged 15 in 1881 Census.

[103] Mary Anne Kinloch was born on Oct 27, 1863 (IGI, sourced from Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages 1855-1875). Mary Anne was recorded as Margaret, aged 17, in the electronic version of the 1881 Census.

[104] Agnes Paton Kinloch was born on Nov 8, 1868 (IGI, sourced from Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages 1855-1875). In the 1881 Census she is recorded as aged 12.

[105] Annie Paton Kinloch was born on Mar 27, 1871 (IGI, sourced from Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages 1855-1875). In the 1881 Census she is recorded as aged 10.

[106] Robert Paton Kinloch was born on Nov 9, 1873 (IGI, sourced from Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages 1855-1875). In the 1881 Census he is recorded as aged 7.

[107] In the 1901 Census she is recorded as Johanna S, aged 24, and was a Stationer.

[108] John Kinloch was born on Feb 5, 1880 (Birth Certificate).

[109] In the 1901 Census Jennie is recorded as aged 16, and was an Office Girl.

[110] In the 1901 census Silverette is recorded as aged 13.