Francis Hubbard Reeder (Reader)
1830-1902
Francis Hubbard Reeder, my 2nd great-grandfather, was born in Maxstoke, Warwickshire, England on October 13th, 1830. He was the son of Edward Reader and Frances Hubbard, one of at least 9 children. Not much is known of his grandparents, save for his mother’s father, Thomas Hubbard; Francis records in his journal that this grandfather died at Jamaica in defense of the British Crown in 1801.
His father’s trade was that of a Gardener. [1]Film # 1067414: marriage record for Francis H. Reader and Elizabeth Maria Hemming. Copy in possession of Sarah Jane Reeder Lewis Also as Printed from the 1841 British Census:Address: Parish of … Continue reading After his father’s death in 1842, his mother worked to sustain the family. The 1851 census notes that his mother was a Shopkeeper,[2]As Printed from the 1851 British CensusAddress: Cottage street, MeridenCensus Place: Maxstoke Meriden, WarwickshirePRO Reference: HO/107/2063 Folio/Page 193/16 FHL Film: 0087322Name Relationship Mar … Continue reading though she passed away later that same year, 1851. Francis records that at the time of his mother’s death, she left one son and 4 daughters living issue. [3]Journal of Francis Hubbard Reeder. Transcribed copy in possession of Sarah Lewis.
It should be noted that Francis Reeder’s father used a different spelling for their last name. Francis records the reason for this in his own words:[4]From the journal writings of Francis H. Reeder (copy in possession of Sarah Lewis). This letter of declaration was written sometime after 1880, but before 1883.
“To Whom It May Concern:
Our forefathers and ancestors spelled the ancestral name REEDER, and thus it can be found on the grave stones and records of the Maxstoke church, and in the church yard of said church in the County of Warwick, England. My father’s brother spelled his name REEDER, Father being the only one that spelled his name READER, Father himself told me that REEDER was the correct way of spelling it.
Therefore be it known that I, Francis H. Reeder, reject and discard the name and word READER and adopt and claim only the name REEDER as being the correct name and so spelled by my forefathers and ancestors, and also by my father until he changed the spelling for the following reason as he informed me.
He, being a Farmer, married a woman beneath his rank; the daughter of a Peasant, and because of this marriage he was discarded and disinherited. In his anger and vexation of spirit at this treatment, he changed the spelling of his name and from that time had it written READER on the records. But the Peasant’s daughter, whose maiden name was Anne Cashmore, was not my mother, she was my Father’s first wife and died at Hall End, Maxstoke, Warwickshire, England, and was buried Dec. the eleventh 1814, having lived 4 years. She left only one child [a boy] who was adopted and cared for by my father’s second wife, My Mother. This child afterward died leaving an issue of two children; a boy and a girl. I saw these children in London in 1851 and it was in that City that their father died in 1848, as near as I can remember. He spelled his name Reader.
It seems to me right and proper to retain the original ancestral spelling of the name and shall therefore always sign my name, Francis H. Reeder.”
When Francis was about 14 years old, he “served a seven year apprenticeship in a tailor’s trade to Mr. William Meller of Shustoke, Warwickshire, England and went to London in 1851.”[5]Journal of Francis Hubbard Reeder. Transcribed copy in possession of Sarah Lewis. His journal doesn’t record why he went to London, or for how long he resided there, however by the time of his marriage in January of 1853, his reported residence was “New Street” in Coventry, Warwick, England.[6]Film # 1067414: marriage record for Francis H. Reader and Elizabeth Maria Hemming. (Copy in possession of Sarah Lewis) One of the witnesses listed on the marriage record was a Mr. Graham Douglas. He … Continue reading
It is not known when Francis first learned of the restored gospel, but by his 16th year, he had embraced this Truth and was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 3 Mar 1846 by Elder William Bramhall,[7]Journal of Francis H. Reeder (copy in possession of Sarah Lewis). in the adjoining parish town of Fillongly.[8]In his journal, Francis records the place of his baptism as ‘Fillingly’, but it was most assuredly ‘Fillongly’ as there is no such ‘Fillingly’ that I could locate. His eldest sister, Ann Reader Bickington, was baptized just earlier than this in February of 1846. Perhaps it was through her that he first learned of the Gospel. (She had married in 1845 to William Bickington. I don’t know a baptismal date for him, but he became a member also.)
The woman to whom Francis was later married, Elizabeth Maria Hemming, was also baptized a member of the Church during this year of 1846 – in April, shortly before her 16th birthday, just a month after Francis was baptized. William Bramhall also baptized her.[9]This information comes from the Journal writings of F. H. Reeder (Copy in the possession of Sarah Lewis). The notes I have for her note the place of baptism as Coventry, but I feel sure that she was … Continue reading It is not known when their courtship began, but they must have been acquainted with each other by this time -1846.
There was a courtship, and banns declared in December of 1852. They were married in the Coventry Holy Trinity Church on January 4th, 1853.[10]I was so impressed to note that Elizabeth Maria Hemming signed her name on her marriage license. This was unusual for the women of this time to be learned enough to read and write. The predominant … Continue reading Without wasting any time, the newly-wed couple embarked on their journey to gather in ‘Zion’, sailing from Liverpool aboard the ship Ellen Maria. They had been scheduled for departure on the 11th of January, given fair wind, but did not depart until the 17th of January 1853,[11]“DEPARTURES. . . . The Ellen Maria sailed on the 17th of January, having been detained in port several days by contrary winds. We shipped 332 souls on board of her, under the presidency of … Continue reading due to “contrary winds”. They did not travel alone. Emigrating with them were Francis’ sister and husband, Ann and William Bickington,[12]Bickington, Ann, 1853, NA, Ellen Maria, Ship roster on microfilm(s) 200173 25690Bickington, William, 1853, NA, Ellen Maria, Ship roster on microfilm(s) 200173 25690Bickington, Frances H., 1853, NA, … Continue reading with their young daughter Frances Hannah, and also a nephew[13]Ogden City Cemetery records note his parents as Henry Reeder and Harriet Hauley. His father must have been a brother of Francis’. of theirs, 14 year old Henry Reader (Reeder).[14]Reader, Henry, 1853, NA, Ellen Maria, Ship roster on microfilm(s) 200173 25690 note: in the records, there was an error in transcription. His date of birth was transcribed as ‘1848’ when … Continue reading
The voyage took forty-seven days to reach New Orleans on 6 Mar 1853. From New Orleans the emigrants continued the journey heading up the Mississippi River on board a steamer [15]The name of the steam ship is recorded differently in several of the personal writings of those Emigrants. Variations include ‘James Rob’, ‘James Roy’, ‘James … Continue reading ‘til reaching St. Louis Missouri, where they arrived March 18, 1853. They later proceeded up the Missouri River until they arrived at Keokuk, in Iowa, from which place the journey across the plains was commenced. [16]information taken from the Millennial Star, Vol. XV, pp.90, 253, 282 Francis records in his journal the following: “…I went to Saint Louis, then to Keokuk. Afterwards, about the first of May, [17]Official records note the day of departure to be June 3rd. I left and went overland to Council Bluffs, leaving Council Bluffs and crossing the Missouri River on the 8th day of July 1853. We arrived in Salt Lake City, Utah Oct 6th 1853.” They, along with about 400 others, traveled overland as part of the Cyrus H. Wheelock company, [18]The Company had “17 horses, 2 mules, 216 oxen, 83 cows, 12 heifers, 52 wagons, and one carriage.” This Company also included a California-bound Company. arriving in the Salt Lake Valley on 16 October 1853, [19]Reader, Francis, 1853, NA, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Journal History 19-Sep-1853 p. 2-7 film 1259740Reader, Maria, 1853, NA, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Journal History 19-Sep-1853 p. 2-7 film 1259740Bickington, … Continue reading after about 135 days on the trail.
The journey was not without personal grief and suffering, for little 7 year old Frances Hannah Bickington, daughter of Francis’ sister Ann, died [20]This little niece may have been ill for quite some time: From James Farmer’s Journal, recorded during the crossing of the ocean: “February 10th [1853]. Gave out provisions and at 3 … Continue reading during the crossing of the plains, and was buried alongside the trail. She was their only child, and they never did have more children.
Upon their arrival in Salt Lake City, Francis and Maria settled in the 20th Ward [21]F. H. Reeder notes this in his journal. I have seen other records say it was the 18th Ward, but as I understand it, part of the 18th Ward later became the 20th Ward. (his sister Ann, her husband, and their nephew Henry eventually settled in a town near Ogden called Marriotts). [22]Ann Bickington was the President of the Marriott Relief Society and was listed as such in the Ogden area directory for 1883. From “Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah”: “Bickington, … Continue reading The couple was sealed together in the Endowment House on 2 April 1854. Francis makes note in his writings that it was in the 20th Ward of Salt Lake City that he “was ordained a seventy in July 1854, at the hands of Elder Alexander McRay and Royal Barney,” and that he “joined the Sixth Quorum [with] Israel Barlow [as] President,” and that he “worked at [the] Temple until the south move.”
I do not know if Francis farmed or used his trade skills as a tailor during these years, but with his wife’s talent at candy-making, they established a business from their home, “The Hemming Candy Factory” – so named because Maria’s father was a professional Confectioner in England. George Hemming had made a wedding gift of some candy-making machinery to help them in their start in America (It is reputed that this machinery was the very first of its kind to enter the Salt Lake Valley.) [23]As noted in “Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah”. In those early days there was no money, and so Maria would make and exchange the candy for her necessities. She also gave candy very generously to children.
About three years later, having kept up correspondence with family who had remained in England, Francis’ wife Maria learned that her sister, Jane Ambrosia Hemming – travelling alone – was to be expected sometime that Fall 1856. I suppose that Francis and Maria probably met several of the incoming immigrants, watching for her sister Jane to arrive. When it became late in the season and Jane still had not arrived, I’m sure they became quite concerned, especially when word came of the ill-fated handcart companies. Francis found his wife’s sister, frozen and ill, laying beside a corpse in the “dead wagon” which arrived in Salt Lake on December 2, 1856.[24]The arrival date of December 2nd, 1856 comes from the Journal of Francis Hubbard Reeder. Other sources say that she may have arrived as late as the 15th of December. He must have wept when he saw her. Francis took her home where Maria could nurse her back to health and then, with Maria’s consent, Francis married Jane under the law of plural marriage on February 8, 1857 [25] Film # 0,183,374; Temple Sealing records: Francis H. Reader to Jane Ambrosia Hemming, by Daniel H. Wells, 8 Feb 1857. in the Salt Lake Endowment House. During these years residing in Salt Lake City, Francis and Maria had three children born to them: Francis George Edward, Jane Ambrosia; and William Henry. Their firstborn (a namesake of himself, her father, and his father) passed away just 9 days before their second child was born. What a bittersweet time this must have been for them.
In 1858 they were part of that great exodus southward, due to the threat of Johnston’s Army, that left Salt Lake City deserted. They lived in Payson [26]Journal of Francis Hubbard Reeder. Transcribed copy in possession of Sarah Lewis. for these months, after which time they returned to Salt Lake for the winter. In the spring of 1859, [27]Although the Journal of F. H. Reeder notes that he moved to Wellsville in 1860 (probably drawing from memory), he had two children born in Wellsville in 1859.A newspaper article, written by Irene … Continue reading with snow still on the ground, [28]As noted in Francis’ writings. they answered a call to help further colonize Cache Valley. Francis moved his family – with both Maria and Jane expecting babies – and they became residents of the growing settlement known as Maughan’s Fort, [29]Some interesting notes regarding Maughan’s Fort, written to me by Arlene Henley, a Maughan descendant.“Peter Maughan settled in Cache Valley in September of 1856. After the settlers came … Continue reading which soon thereafter was renamed ‘Wellsville’ in honor of Daniel H. Wells. This must have pleased Francis and Jane, for it was Brother Wells who sealed them together as husband and wife. Maria continued to make and sell her candy (which is noted in the Windows of Wellsville), [30]From “Windows of Wellsville”: “In the early history of Wellsville, Maria Reeder had a candy store and made her own candy.” and, though he must have done plenty of farming, Francis also did some tailoring business from their home. Francis was also involved in the local ‘Nauvoo Legion’, with the rank of Private in the 5th platoon of Minutemen. [31]From “Windows of Wellsville” Pg 230 makes mention of “F. Reeder” in connection w/Capt John C. Reeder of the local Nauvoo Legion. F. Reeder was a private in the 5th Platoon of … Continue reading
In the Fall after they settled in at Maughan’s Fort, [32]Film # 805314: The 1860 Utah Census for Cache Territory, P.O. Brigham, lists on page 221Dwelling # 16-39, Family # 16-13 Dwelling # 16-38, Family # 16-14Frank Reader, age 29, born England Jane … Continue reading Maria and Jane had two others of their sisters, Emily Eliza Hemming and Ann Collingwood Hemming, come join them. So great was their joy at being reunited with their sisters that the two babies born that Fall were each named in honor of one of the newly arrived sisters; Maria’s baby was named Emily Eliza and Jane’s baby (her firstborn) was named Ann Collingwood.
The new year, 1860, brought certain changes to the family, for Ann Collingwood Hemming disclosed that she was with child. [33]I do not wish to make a scandal where there was none, but I am trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together as best as I am able. Assuming she carried the child full-term, she would have conceived … Continue reading It is my assumption that as soon as this information was made known – with no father of the child coming forth – that Francis made arrangements to take Ann Collingwood to Salt Lake City to have her sealed to him. Perhaps his thinking was for the unborn child, so that the child would be born in the Covenant. At any rate, Ann Collingwood Hemming was sealed to Francis H. Reeder in the Endowment House on 25 March 1860.[34]See Film # 1,149,514 and Film #0,183,404
I do not believe that Francis and Ann ever lived together as man and wife, for she remained in Salt Lake City and Francis did not record this marriage – nor the birth of the baby – in his Family Bible records. She is listed (as Ann Reeder) in the June 1860 Census as residing in the home of George & Elizabeth Goddard. [35](Film #805313) 1860 (June 1) Federal Census, Utah, Salt Lake City, 13th Ward: Reeder, Ann, age 22, in home of George & Elizabeth Goddard. Her baby, Samuel George Hemming Reeder, was born on 6 Oct 1860. The baby was given a name and a blessing in the 13th Ward in Salt Lake City. The parents listed on this blessing record: only Ann Collingwood Hemming – no father is listed. It is not known what happened to the baby – whether he lived or died, or was given away in an adoption, and Ann obtained a divorce from Francis H. Reeder on 10 Oct 1862, [36]Letter from the Church Historian’s office. “October 31, 2000 (letter from the Church Historian’s Office) To David G. Reeder: Dear Mr. Reeder:We received your letter concerning Ann … Continue reading though she did not marry again until 1867. Certainly there are some aspects to this part of their life that are still quite unknown.
Their faith continued on, amidst their trials, strengthened through blessings. Francis, Maria, and Jane received their patriarchal blessings by Isaac Morley in Oct 1861 in Wellsville. [37]recorded in Vol. 23 p. 86 – would love to receive copies of these blessings!
Francis resided in Wellsville for 15 years, during which time Francis’ family grew to 20 children, (5 of whom died in infancy.)
Children of Francis Hubbard Reeder
and Jane Ambrosia Hemming:
- 17 Nov 1859, Ann Collingwood Reeder Jenkins
- 28 Apr 1862, Frances Hannah Reeder Reader
- 29 May 1864,Thomas Hemming Reeder
- 2 May 1866, Arthur Reeder (died 22 Jul 1866)
- 18 Dec 1867, Harriet Reeder (died 5 Feb 1868)
- 3 Apr 1870, Sarah Reeder (died 7 Apr 1870)
- 19 Apr 1871, Edwin Fergus Reeder
- 12 Jan 1874, John Alma Reeder
Children of Francis Hubbard Reeder
and Elizabeth Maria Hemming:
- 14 Apr 1854, Francis George Edward Reeder (died 13 Oct 1855)
- 22 Oct 1855, Jane Ambrosia Reeder Crawshaw
- 26 Oct 1857, William Henry Reeder
- 13 Nov 1859, Emily Eliza Reeder Hill
- 12 Aug 1861, Leo Jesse Reeder
- 5 Jun 1863, Elizabeth Maria Reeder (died 10 Jan 1865)
- 16 Jun 1865, Franklin Samuel Reeder
- 1 Oct 1867, Chauncey Bickington Reeder
Francis records in his journal; “In the latter part of 1874 I came from Wellsville to Ogden Utah, Weber Co. UT, where I now reside…” Francis took Maria and her children and relocated them in Ogden, but Jane and her young family remained in Wellsville. Jane’s health was poor from the late-season emigration she endured and she died only a year and a half later in August of 1876 in the Wellsville cemetery. Jane’s children were then brought to Ogden to live [38]“Extract: 1880 United States CensusDwelling: 2nd Ward Census Place: Ogden, Weber, UtahSource: FHL Film 1255339; National Archives Film T9-1339; Page 428DHousehold: Rel Sex Marr Race Age … Continue reading with their ‘Aunt Maria’. One descendant writes that following Jane’s death, “[Francis Hannah] and her two small brothers and [her elder] sister were sent to live in Ogden, Utah with the other family. [Frances Hannah, at age 14] was given the responsibility of raising her little brothers and they have told me that she was the only Mother they could remember.” [39]from the writings of Jennie R. Bergeson, regarding her mother Francis Hannah Hemming Reeder Reader (daughter of Jane).
Upon his relocation to Ogden, Francis purchased The Ogden Bazar from Fred A. Shields [40]In the Utah Gazetteer and Salt Lake Directory of 1874, page 109, which includes Ogden businesses, the following entries were found: “The Ogden Bazar, Main Street Ogden, Fred A. Shields, … Continue reading and was operating his own Ogden business there by January of 1875. The Ogden Junction printed an ad that ran from 23 Jan until the 23 March 1875, which read, “Ho! Ho! Ho! Ho! for the HEMMING CANDY FACTORY. All kinds of Home-made candy, wholesale and retail. Get your Christmas confectionery at the Factory – One door south of Newman’s Tin Shop [2530 Washington], Main Street Ogden. Wedding cakes made to order. F. H. Reader, proprietor.”
Other similar ads followed throughout the years (1878, [41]1878 Ad in the Ogden City Directory: “Established 1853, F. H. Reader Manufacturer of, and wholesale/retail Dealer in Candies, Plain, Fancy, and Motto. Orders carefully filled – all candies … Continue reading 1880, [42]June 16, 1880, Page 3, Ad in the Daily Ogden Junction: “Pioneer Candy Factory, Fifth Street, Ogden UT. Established in Salt Lake 1853. Strictly Pure. Home-made Candies, also toys and notions, … Continue reading 1883, [43]1883 Ad in the City Directory: “The Pioneer Candy Manufacturer F. H. REEDER, Fifth Street Ogden UT. Manufacture and imports only. The Purest and Finest Candies of All Sorts. OGDEN BAZAR! Well … Continue reading 1888 [44]1888 listing in the City Directory: “F. H. Reeder (Candy Manufacturer)” address was listed as “5th between Main and Young.” Residence the same. and 1890). [45]1890 listing in the City Directory: “Reeder, F. H. Confectionery, 356 25th Street” In the 1878 Ogden City Directory, the ad notes that he was located on 5th Street in Ogden, which today is 25th Street. [46]It appears that, over the years, F. H. Reeder had three different store locations. First on Main street (Washington) while the store was advertised in 1875, 1878, and 1880. City records note that he … Continue reading He later renamed his business to be “The Pioneer Candy Manufacturer” noting its establishment in Salt Lake in 1853. The candy was famous and Francis and Maria won many state competition prizes for their molasses, rock and stick candy and their famous ‘taffy on a stick’.
Pictured above is 5th street (25th street) in Ogden City as it appeared in the late 1880’s and 1890’s.
These were good years that were made better by a reuniting with his sister, [47]Francis had 4 sisters. Ann immigrated to Utah with him. Harriet also came to Utah, she was here by 1880, but I do not have the date of her emigration. She is buried in the Ogden City Cemetery in the … Continue reading having left her in England so many years earlier. A newspaper article, dated 1883, expresses this event very well:
“The Mormon Immigration, more than any other system, has a tendency to bring about reunions of families or scattered members of households after long years of separation… Utah being the objective point, and coming, as the people do, from almost every other Nation, the probabilities of meeting here with friends who had been sundered from youth to middle age are great.
“Among those who arrived here, on Sunday morning, were Mr. Edwin Parsons and his wife, Mrs. Hannah Parsons. They came from near Coventry, Warwickshire, England. The lady is a sister of Mr. F. H. Reeder, who resides on Fifth Street, and Mrs. Ann Bickington, at Marriotts.
“The meeting of these friends who had not seen each other for thirty years, can be better imagined than described by us. In that time what revolutions have succeeded each other and what untold sufferings have been experienced by individuals and nations, and what hopes deferred have filled the breasts of this brother and the sisters of again seeing each other in mortality. Suffice it to say, that is was a joyous, happy meeting. And to celebrate the event Mr. Reeder gathered his children and grandchildren, besides his other kindred, at his residence. They numbered nearly forty, and two days were spent in a grand family reunion. “A feast of fat things” was prepared for the occasion and partaken of with a relish seldom enjoyed in ordinary times. Two days were spent in recounting the histories of the past, also in mirth and merriment, mingled with tears of joy and sorrow, the latter called forth by the pains of long absence, and the other by the happy event which has brought them together again.
“We congratulate our friends on the occasion of so much felicity and hope their sun of peace may continue to be unclouded for the remnant of their days.”
Then, on 19 Sep 1885, after 32 ½ years together, Maria passed away and was laid to rest in the Ogden City Cemetery. The Ogden Standard-Herald published this short notice: 21 Sep 1885:
“Reeder.–In this city, on Saturday evening September 19th, 1885, after a long illness, Elizabeth Maria, wife of Francis H. Reeder. Deceased was born April 30, 1830, at Coventry Warwickshire, England.”
On 23 Mar 1887, [48]US/CAN film #430301 “Reeder, Hellen Maria Davis (Thurston) 23 Mar 1887” marriage license. Although they were both listed as residents of Ogden, the Marriage occurred in Logan, Utah. Francis was married to a widow, Helen Maria Davis Thurston. She had been the third wife in polygamy to Thomas Jefferson Thurston, who died in 1885 on the day of their 23rd wedding anniversary. I know of no children ever having been born to them. Thomas Jefferson Thurston’s grand-daughter, Cordelia Rozetta Smith, married one of Francis’ sons, Thomas Hemming Reeder (these are my great-grandparents).
Francis and Helen shared 9 ½ years together. Helen passed away on 3 Aug 1896. The Deseret Evening News published news of her passing: Wed., Aug 12, 1896, pg. 5:
“Sister Helen M. Davis Reeder, who died at Ogden City, August 3, 1896, was born at Lowell, Massachusetts, October 29, 1844. She emigrated with her parents to Utah in 1862, crossing the plains with ox teams. The family settled in Milton, Morgan county. Deceased was baptized when 16 years of age and remained a steadfast and faithful Latter-day Saint to her last day on earth. On March 23, 1887, she, being a widow, was married to Brother Francis H. Reeder of Ogden, who now mourns the loss of a faithful and loving wife. She died of heart disease.
“The funeral took place at Littleton, Morgan county, where, as in Milton, a large circle of old friends held her in the highest esteem. The same can be said of her in Ogden. She never faltered in her faith; therefore she now awaits her Savior” call to come up in the resurrection of the just. She has a brother and three sisters in the East.”
Francis retired from his business sometime after 1890, when the candy store was last advertised. In the twilight of his years he returned to the trade he had learned in his youth, as indicated in the 1902 city directory, which lists him as a tailor, working for Olof Hanson. This 1902 city directory also gives his address as ‘rear’ 824 22nd street, living near some of his children.[49]This home was one of 4 properties (two front/ two rear) that were owned by the Reeder’s. Two of his sons – William Henry Reeder and Thomas Hemming Reeder – were carpenters and had built … Continue reading [50]Transactions involving the four properties included at 824 Rear St. to 836 22nd St., Ogden. These are parts of Lots 2 & 3, Block 13, Plat B, Ogden City Survey.Date Grantor Grantee Inst … Continue reading
He lived here until his death, which was published in The Standard, Tues 18 Mar 1902:
Died: Francis H. Reeder, March 18, 1902, at 5:15 AM, of old age and complications. He was born October 13, 1830 at Maxstoke, Warwickshire, England. He was 71 Years of age. Funeral at Fourth ward meeting house at 10 AM, Thursday. Remains can be viewed at residence, rear No. 824 Twenty-second street.
The 1903/04 Ogden City directory makes respectful note that “F. H. Reeder died 18 Mar 1902, age 72.”
It is very curious to me that there is no headstone to mark their final resting-place, but cemetery records indicate that Francis is buried next to his wife Maria in Ogden City Cemetery.
Francis Hubbard Reeder, pioneer, is thus seen to have been responsible to his forebears; the spelling of the Reeder name was of serious concern to him. He is seen to have been a responsible family head; caring for his wives, for a large posterity, and successful family economic pursuits. His Ogden business activity and associated social and news articles and advertisements reflect a leader in the community. And, by reason of having practiced the law of plural marriage, F. H. Reeder is seen to have been a dutiful and faithful Latter-day Saint, as only such were encouraged to enter the practice.
But let me state again, F. H. Reeder was a Pioneer. He struck out in directions of endeavor at a time when many tarried close to home. His religion moved him to walk where few had gone. He was an early member of the Lord’s Church and an early emigrant to the Valley of the Great Salt Lake. Hardships continued as he assisted in the settlement of communities. He pioneered industry. It needs be mentioned too, his Ogden pursuits occurred at a time when that community, a national railhead, a crossroads with the secular interests of the East and coarse habits of the West left too many Ogden Latter-day Saints ill in testimony. F. H. Reeder remained faithful to his God.
I am proud to be numbered among his posterity and am pleased to record his life so that he may be remembered and honored among future generations.
Sarah Jane Reeder Lewis, daughter of:
David Glenn Reeder jr., son of:
David Glenn Reeder sr., son of:
Thomas Hemming Reeder, son of:
Francis Hubbard Reeder.
Completed October 2002
Regarding the notes and sources:
Thanks to my Dad, David Glenn Reeder Jr., for all the film’s researched, his editing helps and also for his thoughts regarding our ancestor.
Thanks also to other descendants who share their stories and pictures.
Other descendants from whom I’ve drawn out of their own research and family histories include: Shirley Reeder Skeen and Edythe Bergeson Bair. Many Thanks!
I received my own copy of the journal writings of F. H. Reeder from Marsha Linder Carlson. (My copy of the journal was transcribed by George J. Reeder, a son of Leo Jesse Charles Reeder.) Michael Reeder has the original Reeder Family Bible and the original Journal of F. H. Reeder.
References
| ↑1 | Film # 1067414: marriage record for Francis H. Reader and Elizabeth Maria Hemming. Copy in possession of Sarah Jane Reeder Lewis Also as Printed from the 1841 British Census: Address: Parish of Maxstoke |
|---|---|
| ↑2 | As Printed from the 1851 British Census Address: Cottage street, Meriden Census Place: Maxstoke Meriden, Warwickshire PRO Reference: HO/107/2063 Folio/Page 193/16 FHL Film: 0087322 Name Relationship Mar Age/Sex Occupation Birthplace Frances READER Head W 59 / F Shop Keeper Over Whitacre-War Lydia READER Daur U 24 / F ———– Maxstoke-War Henry READER Rela — 12 / M ——— Maxstoke-War Thomas READER Son U 20 / M Tailor Maxstoke-War Patterick KELLY Vist U 20 / M Labor Ireland (Francis REEDER was absent from this 1851 census – he would have been in London at the time of the 1851 census…”I received a seven year apprenticeship in the Tailor’s Trade to Mr. William Mellers, Shustoke England, and went to London in 1851.”) Perhaps, after the death of Edward Reader in 1842, the family may have relocated to the adjoining parish town of Meriden. Comparing the addresses and census places listed in the 1841 and 1851 census’ recorded in the previously listed footnotes, it is noted that in 1841, the census place was ‘Coleshill’ and their address listed simply as ‘Parish of Maxstoke’. In the 1851 census, the census place was ‘Maxstoke Meriden’ (I don’t really understand this notation, unless it is simply combining these adjoining parish towns.) and their address is ‘Cottage Street, Meriden’. This may denote a change of residence. In researching, these little country towns, that are only maybe 5 miles apart, are often labeled as ‘Adjoining Parishes’. |
| ↑3, ↑26 | Journal of Francis Hubbard Reeder. Transcribed copy in possession of Sarah Lewis. |
| ↑4 | From the journal writings of Francis H. Reeder (copy in possession of Sarah Lewis). This letter of declaration was written sometime after 1880, but before 1883. |
| ↑5 | Journal of Francis Hubbard Reeder. Transcribed copy in possession of Sarah Lewis. |
| ↑6 | Film # 1067414: marriage record for Francis H. Reader and Elizabeth Maria Hemming. (Copy in possession of Sarah Lewis) One of the witnesses listed on the marriage record was a Mr. Graham Douglas. He was a member of the LDS Church and eventually immigrated to Utah. I wonder if Francis was staying with him on New Street in Coventry at the time of his marriage? Just a supposition. |
| ↑7 | Journal of Francis H. Reeder (copy in possession of Sarah Lewis). |
| ↑8 | In his journal, Francis records the place of his baptism as ‘Fillingly’, but it was most assuredly ‘Fillongly’ as there is no such ‘Fillingly’ that I could locate. |
| ↑9 | This information comes from the Journal writings of F. H. Reeder (Copy in the possession of Sarah Lewis). The notes I have for her note the place of baptism as Coventry, but I feel sure that she was probably also baptized in Fillongly, considering that the same Elder baptized her, so closely to the date of her future husband’s baptismal date. |
| ↑10 | I was so impressed to note that Elizabeth Maria Hemming signed her name on her marriage license. This was unusual for the women of this time to be learned enough to read and write. The predominant signature for a woman of this time (as is especially evident to me after viewing original filmed documents) was an “X” as her mark. Film # 1067414: marriage record for Francis H. Reader and Elizabeth Maria Hemming (copy in possession of Sarah Lewis). The record reads as follows: Page 3. 1853. Marriage solemnized at the Parish Church in the Parish of the Holy Trinity Coventry in the County of Warwick. Record No. 5; When Married: January 4th 1852. Note the error of the recorder, the “New Year slip” – he accidentally wrote ‘1852’ on the record, but the top of the page is written ‘1853’. Also, in the writings of F. H. Reeder, which were written from memory several years later, he records that it was ‘John B. Webb’ who performed the Ceremony, rather than ‘Sam B. Webb’ as recorded in the official record. |
| ↑11 | “DEPARTURES. . . . The Ellen Maria sailed on the 17th of January, having been detained in port several days by contrary winds. We shipped 332 souls on board of her, under the presidency of Elder Moses Clawson. The voyage proved a pretty rough and stormy one, especially during the first eight days after leaving port, and considerable sickness prevailed among the Saints. Among others, President Clawson was sick nearly the entire voyage. Five births and five deaths occurred on board, and two marriages were solemnized. (Millennial Star, Vol. XV, pp.90, 253, 282.)” Some interesting information regarding the voyage from the autobiography and Journal of John Isaac Hart: |
| ↑12 | Bickington, Ann, 1853, NA, Ellen Maria, Ship roster on microfilm(s) 200173 25690 Bickington, William, 1853, NA, Ellen Maria, Ship roster on microfilm(s) 200173 25690 Bickington, Frances H., 1853, NA, Ellen Maria, Ship roster on microfilm(s) 200173 25690 |
| ↑13 | Ogden City Cemetery records note his parents as Henry Reeder and Harriet Hauley. His father must have been a brother of Francis’. |
| ↑14 | Reader, Henry, 1853, NA, Ellen Maria, Ship roster on microfilm(s) 200173 25690 note: in the records, there was an error in transcription. His date of birth was transcribed as ‘1848’ when it should have read ‘1838’ (refer to the 1841 and 1851 census records in the endnotes 1 and 2). |
| ↑15 | The name of the steam ship is recorded differently in several of the personal writings of those Emigrants. Variations include ‘James Rob’, ‘James Roy’, ‘James Noble’, etc. |
| ↑16 | information taken from the Millennial Star, Vol. XV, pp.90, 253, 282 |
| ↑17 | Official records note the day of departure to be June 3rd. |
| ↑18 | The Company had “17 horses, 2 mules, 216 oxen, 83 cows, 12 heifers, 52 wagons, and one carriage.” This Company also included a California-bound Company. |
| ↑19 | Reader, Francis, 1853, NA, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Journal History 19-Sep-1853 p. 2-7 film 1259740 Reader, Maria, 1853, NA, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Journal History 19-Sep-1853 p. 2-7 film 1259740 Bickington, William, 1853, NA, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Journal History 19-Sep-1853 p. 2-7 film 1259740 Bickington, Ann, 1853, NA, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Journal History 19-Sep-1853 p. 2-7 film 1259740 Reader, Henry, 1853, NA, Cyrus H. Wheelock, Journal History 19-Sep-1853 p. 2-7 film 1259740 |
| ↑20 | This little niece may have been ill for quite some time: From James Farmer’s Journal, recorded during the crossing of the ocean: “February 10th [1853]. Gave out provisions and at 3 o’clock eat my dinner and felt better. In the afternoon gave out the water which takes 3 of us. I, Elders Pough [Pugh] and Welsh [Welch]. Afterward administered to Brother William Buckington’s [Bickington’s] daughter, Francis Hannah, who had inflammation in her left eye. It was getting better.” |
| ↑21 | F. H. Reeder notes this in his journal. I have seen other records say it was the 18th Ward, but as I understand it, part of the 18th Ward later became the 20th Ward. |
| ↑22 | Ann Bickington was the President of the Marriott Relief Society and was listed as such in the Ogden area directory for 1883. From “Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah”: “Bickington, William. Born 1811, Maxstoke, Warwickshire, England. Came to Utah in 1853. Married Ann Reeder. Only child: Frances, who died crossing the plains. Settler of Marriott, Utah, 1855, where he died November, 1869.” |
| ↑23 | As noted in “Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah”. |
| ↑24 | The arrival date of December 2nd, 1856 comes from the Journal of Francis Hubbard Reeder. Other sources say that she may have arrived as late as the 15th of December. |
| ↑25 | Film # 0,183,374; Temple Sealing records: Francis H. Reader to Jane Ambrosia Hemming, by Daniel H. Wells, 8 Feb 1857. |
| ↑27 | Although the Journal of F. H. Reeder notes that he moved to Wellsville in 1860 (probably drawing from memory), he had two children born in Wellsville in 1859. A newspaper article, written by Irene Woodhouse, published in the Ogden Standard-Examiner, Sunday, December 1, 1985, states: “On May 1, 1859, the Reeder family was called to pioneer Cache Valley, settling at Wellsville. In addition to operating a farm, Elizabeth made candy and her husband operated a tailor shop in their home.” This information comes from Edythe Bergeson Bair, a descendant. |
| ↑28 | As noted in Francis’ writings. |
| ↑29 | Some interesting notes regarding Maughan’s Fort, written to me by Arlene Henley, a Maughan descendant. “Peter Maughan settled in Cache Valley in September of 1856. After the settlers came back into the valley after the Utah War, President Young sent authorities to begin to organize the ward and stake areas and changed the name from Maughan’s Fort to Wellsville, named after Daniel H. Wells one of his counselors. “My 2nd great-grandfather, William Harrison Maughan, was called as the bishop of the Wellsville ward at that time and remained in that position for nearly 42 years. “According to our family records and the book “Windows of Wellsville”, the city was organized in 1859 and then in 1863 it was surveyed by a Mr. Martineau. By 1864 the fort “style” of the city had changed and the fort had begun to fade away as the townsite was being built around the city square. The houses that made up the style of the fort were dismantled and rebuilt on the sections of land that had been allotted to each of the settlers. Some of the more permanent homes also began to be built or the older homes were remodeled into larger homes. “By the way, there never was a fort built, as such. The houses that made up the so-called fort, were log cabins, about 16 feet square that were built facing each other in two rows. The road between was 8 rods wide and just wide enough for two wagons to be placed on each end, in effect closing off the area into the fort shape needed for protection. Corrals were built back of the houses and then fences beyond them, which effectively kept out the Indians, along with constant guard presence, 24 hours per day.” |
| ↑30 | From “Windows of Wellsville”: “In the early history of Wellsville, Maria Reeder had a candy store and made her own candy.” |
| ↑31 | From “Windows of Wellsville” Pg 230 makes mention of “F. Reeder” in connection w/Capt John C. Reeder of the local Nauvoo Legion. F. Reeder was a private in the 5th Platoon of Minutemen. |
| ↑32 | Film # 805314: The 1860 Utah Census for Cache Territory, P.O. Brigham, lists on page 221 Dwelling # 16-39, Family # 16-13 Dwelling # 16-38, Family # 16-14 Frank Reader, age 29, born England Jane Reader, age 23, born England Elizabeth Reader, age 21, born England Ann C. Reader, age 8/12, born U.S. Whilliam H. Reader, age 4, born U.S. Ambrosia Reader, age 3, born U.S. Emily Reader, age 8/12, born U.S. |
| ↑33 | I do not wish to make a scandal where there was none, but I am trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together as best as I am able. Assuming she carried the child full-term, she would have conceived the child in January of 1860. It is not known to us who the father of the child was. Although Francis Hubbard Reeder was sealed to Ann Collingwood, we do not suppose that he was the father of this child, for he didn’t record their marriage or the birth of the baby in his family bible records, and the baby was born only 6 ½ months after their sealing date. Also, this sealing and the child are not mentioned in the obituary for Ann C. – only her second marriage to James Moulton.I can picture the situation… (my imagination only)… When Ann Collingwood Hemming and Emily Eliza Hemming arrived in the Salt Lake Valley they returned to Cache Valley with F. H. and Elizabeth Maria. A little while later, perhaps Ann C. came to her sisters and wept and confessed she was pregnant… (who was the father?) So, she traveled in 1860 to SLC with F. H. Reader and Emily Eliza (who was going to live with her future mother-in-law until her marriage.) F. H. had Ann C. sealed to him – for the baby’s sake – and she then remained in SLC (to escape the gossip?) being cared for by some kind friends who took her in (as noted in the 1860 census) – where she lived (using the name Reader) until her baby was born. She then lived independently (returning to the name Hemming), selling her candy (as noted in her obituary), until her marriage in 1667. What happened to her little baby? Did he die in infancy? Did she give him for adoption? |
| ↑34 | See Film # 1,149,514 and Film #0,183,404 |
| ↑35 | (Film #805313) 1860 (June 1) Federal Census, Utah, Salt Lake City, 13th Ward: Reeder, Ann, age 22, in home of George & Elizabeth Goddard. |
| ↑36 | Letter from the Church Historian’s office. “October 31, 2000 (letter from the Church Historian’s Office) To David G. Reeder: Dear Mr. Reeder: We received your letter concerning Ann Collingwood Reeder Moulton. We can tell you a little more but not a lot about her. We have information that she received a divorce from Francis Reeder on 10 October 1862. We can find no information on a church court being held on her for apostasy or any other reason. We also cannot find any information on her child. Sincerely, (Ronald G. Watt) Archivist, Sr.” archive number 1955: 7830. |
| ↑37 | recorded in Vol. 23 p. 86 – would love to receive copies of these blessings! |
| ↑38 | “Extract: 1880 United States Census Dwelling: 2nd Ward Census Place: Ogden, Weber, Utah Source: FHL Film 1255339; National Archives Film T9-1339; Page 428D Household: Rel Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace Francies H. REEDER Self Male M W 50 ENG Occ: Canda Factory Fa: ENG Mo: ENG Elizabath N. REEDER Wife Female M W 50 ENG Occ: Keeping House Fa: ENG Mo: ENG Frances REEDER Dau Female S W 18 UT Occ: Keeping House Fa: ENG Mo: ENG Leo Jessy C. REEDER Son Male S W 19 UT Occ: Laborer Fa: ENG Mo: ENG Thomas H. REEDER Son Male S W 16 UT Occ: Shoe Maker Fa: ENG Mo: — Franklin REEDER Son Male S W 15 UT Occ: Com Fa: ENG Mo: ENG Chancy B. REEDER Son Male S W 13 UT Occ: Com Fa: ENG Mo: ENG Edwin F. REEDER Son Male S W 9 UT Occ: At School Fa: ENG Mo: ENG John A. REEDER Son Male S W 6 UT Occ: At School Fa: ENG Mo: ENG.” |
| ↑39 | from the writings of Jennie R. Bergeson, regarding her mother Francis Hannah Hemming Reeder Reader (daughter of Jane). |
| ↑40 | In the Utah Gazetteer and Salt Lake Directory of 1874, page 109, which includes Ogden businesses, the following entries were found: “The Ogden Bazar, Main Street Ogden, Fred A. Shields, wholesale and retail dealer in toys, musical instruments, ladies fancy articles, notions, books, stationery, pictures, frames, etc etc. Branch store at Logan, Cache County.” |
| ↑41 | 1878 Ad in the Ogden City Directory: “Established 1853, F. H. Reader Manufacturer of, and wholesale/retail Dealer in Candies, Plain, Fancy, and Motto. Orders carefully filled – all candies warranted pure. A fine selection of Toys always on hand. Fifth Street— Ogden, UT.” |
| ↑42 | June 16, 1880, Page 3, Ad in the Daily Ogden Junction: “Pioneer Candy Factory, Fifth Street, Ogden UT. Established in Salt Lake 1853. Strictly Pure. Home-made Candies, also toys and notions, Tobacco, Cigars, Etc. F. H. Reader, Proprietor.” |
| ↑43 | 1883 Ad in the City Directory: “The Pioneer Candy Manufacturer F. H. REEDER, Fifth Street Ogden UT. Manufacture and imports only. The Purest and Finest Candies of All Sorts. OGDEN BAZAR! Well stocked with Dolls, Balls, Toys of all descriptions.” Address: “5th between Spring and Smith” |
| ↑44 | 1888 listing in the City Directory: “F. H. Reeder (Candy Manufacturer)” address was listed as “5th between Main and Young.” Residence the same. |
| ↑45 | 1890 listing in the City Directory: “Reeder, F. H. Confectionery, 356 25th Street” |
| ↑46 | It appears that, over the years, F. H. Reeder had three different store locations. First on Main street (Washington) while the store was advertised in 1875, 1878, and 1880. City records note that he bought property from Edmund Butterworth for $1,500 on 22 Feb 1882 and then sold this property to Henry Brown on 15 Dec 1884 for $950. And so, when the store was advertised in the 1883 directory the address is “5th street between Spring and Smith” (the current Adams and Jefferson streets) I believe this is the store that we have a photograph of – with Francis pictured standing in front of his store. I wonder if he sold the property because the place where he moved the store offered a residence also – perhaps easier to tend the store and care for an ailing wife too? Maria died in 1885 “after a long illness”.) At any rate, he moved again. This time, as advertised in the 1888 directory, the address was “5th street between Main and Young” (the current Washington and Grant streets). It notes this to be his Residence address also (the photograph shows a 2-story building – residence on the top story.) In the 1890 directory the store address is listed as “356 25th Street” (A little east of Kiesel Avenue – the property now occupied by the drive-in department of a Bank.) I am supposing this to be the same location as the 1888 directory address, but his residence address changed to “rear 311 27th street” (He would be living here with his new wife Helen Maria Davis. His two youngest sons, Edwin Fergus and John Alma lived there too.) By the 1902 City directory, Francis had retired from the store business and was living at “Rear 824 22nd street”. The 1903/04 directory makes respectful note that F. H. Reeder died 18 Mar 1902, age 72. |
| ↑47 | Francis had 4 sisters. Ann immigrated to Utah with him. Harriet also came to Utah, she was here by 1880, but I do not have the date of her emigration. She is buried in the Ogden City Cemetery in the same plot with Ann and Francis. (Ann and Harriet are listed in the same household for the 1880 census. Both are listed as widows and Harriet’s last name is listed as ‘Andly’. Hannah immigrated to Utah in 1883 and is buried in the Salt Lake City Cemetery. I am fairly sure that Lydia never made it to Utah; She is listed in the 1881 British census, widowed, and living in the home of her son. |
| ↑48 | US/CAN film #430301 “Reeder, Hellen Maria Davis (Thurston) 23 Mar 1887” marriage license. Although they were both listed as residents of Ogden, the Marriage occurred in Logan, Utah. |
| ↑49 | This home was one of 4 properties (two front/ two rear) that were owned by the Reeder’s. Two of his sons – William Henry Reeder and Thomas Hemming Reeder – were carpenters and had built these homes. During the time when Francis H. Reeder lived in 824 Rear, his grandson William Henry Reeder, jr. lived in 824 Front, and the Thomas Hemming Reeder family lived next door. These homes still stand today (2002). |
| ↑50 | Transactions involving the four properties included at 824 Rear St. to 836 22nd St., Ogden. These are parts of Lots 2 & 3, Block 13, Plat B, Ogden City Survey. Date Grantor Grantee Inst Bk/pg |