VICTOR LEWIS BRISSELL

1912 – 1986

Compiled by his daughter Susan Jean Brissell Callister

and her husband Jerry P Callister

2013

2

3

TABLE of CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: VICTOR LEWIS BRISSELL AUTOBIOGRAPHY

(Written by Victor Lewis Brissell in 1981)

CHAPTER 2: MEMORIES BY HIS WIFE AND SISTER IN-LAW

CHAPTER 3: PICTURES – MARRIAGE (1935) to WWII (1943-46)

CHAPTER 4: VIC & MARGARET BRISSELL – WWII Period

PICTURES & LETTERS

CHAPTER 5: WWII & POST-WAR MURRAY EAGLE NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

CHAPTER 6: BRISSELL FAMILY PHOTOS - SUSAN’S BIRTH (1947) & AFTER

CHAPTER 7: MARGARET BRISSELL’S ACCOUNT of VIC’S SUPPORT

DURING HER LAST ILLNESS

CHAPTER 8: SUSAN’S MEMORIES, LETTERS and REFLECTIONS

CHAPTER 9: DAUGHTER SUSAN JEAN BRISSELL’s WEDDING

BY HER MOTHER MARGARET C BRISSELL – JUNE 1970

CHAPTER 10: VICTOR L BRISSELL’S FAMILY and ANCESTORS

4

5

CHAPTER 1 Victor Lewis Brissell

Born: February 23, 1912 in Tonopah, Nevada, Nye County

Father: George LeVant Brissell Mother: Mary Ellen (Nellie) Appleton Brissell

Grandparents (Paternal): John Phillip Brissell & Alice Stevenson (Davis) Brissell Grandparents (Maternal): John Frederick Appleton & Eliza Glithero

Vic and Margaret had a home on 226 Maple Street and later moved to 436

Shamrock Dr. in Murray, Utah. They had three babies, a boy (David George) and two girls (Mary Margo and Paula Jane), who died close to the time of their birth. They were born in 1940, 1945 and 1947 and are buried in the Murray City cemetery. In July 1947 they adopted a baby girl they named Susan Jean Brissell. She was their only living child. Susan married Jerry P Callister in 1971. They are the parents of Karee Callister Banks, Mindy Callister Robison, Jamie Callister and Brad Callister.

VICTOR LEWIS BRISSELL AUTOBIOGRAPHY

(Written by Victor Brissell in 1981)

I, Victor L. Brissell, was born on February 23, 1912 at 11:00 a.m. I was born at home which is located at the corner of Brougher and Prospect Streets in Tonopah, Nye County, Nevada. The attending physician was J. R. Cunningham who was filling in for our regular physician, Dr. Cowden. I was the fourth male child born to my mother and father with a total of five after the arrival of my youngest brother David.

My mother was 33 years of age at the time I was born. Her full name was Mary Ellen (Nellie) Brissell. Her maiden name was Appleton and she was born in North Hamptonshire, England. My father [George Levant Brissell] was also 33 years of age and he was a photographer by trade. He was born in the town of Latrobe which is just outside of Sacramento, California. My father’s middle name was LeVant. There were no girls in our family and as a result we tried our best to spoil our mother although she was so far ahead of us that trying to spoil her or make things worthwhile many times fell far short of its mark as she was entitled to those things which made life a little easier which were very seldom provided to her.

Life in Tonopah, Nevada was quite rugged although the town itself during my life there was always interesting and full of fun. There were many occasions where playing with the neighbors kids we took many chances that could have

6

been quite dangerous but fortunately for all of us we came through them unscathed. For those of you who have not been in a large mining camp in early days, it was not unusual at all to find a mine shaft right in the center of town working and we took great delight in making it possible for our games to center around these workings many times near the shaft or near the cars or they came up out of the mine shaft.

Geo. L. Brissell home in Tonopah

At the age of around eight or nine the greatest fun that we all had was attending the Butler Theatre and watching Tom Mix or William S. Hart or a few of the old time movie greats perform their serials which were shown at the theatre on every Saturday afternoon. Immediately after the show was finished we would go to the rear of the theatre where we had left our broom stick horses and we would run for the rest of the day until it got dark playing that we were Stride, Tony or one of the famous horses

of our day and pursuing wild Indians or murderers along the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Although I never had the occasion to measure it, I imagine we traveled about five or six miles after the show was out on Saturday afternoons but we never seemed to fatigue or give up so that we were able to stay in pretty good shape. This continued through the seventh, eighth, and ninth years of my life.

One profitable little operation which was available to most of the kids if they so desired was selling the Tonopah Daily Times or the Tonopah Daily Bonanza, mostly the Bonanza which was through being published about 4:30 in the afternoon and it would always be my goal to either race into the agent or foot race down to the town where the potential customers were quite generous or run directly to the Mizpah Hotel hoping that some of the salesmen or stockbrokers, whoever was considered wealthy at this time, were visiting Tonopah and would

always include a good tip in the price of ten cents for the paper.

I recall the one instance where I burst into the lobby of the Mizpah Hotel with my papers under my arm and low and behold there sat Death Valley Scotty and I approached him with the dignity that he deserved and he said, "My God kid who told you I was here in town?" and he gave me a five dollar gold piece for my papers which was quite a thrilling experience for me because Scotty was a friend of my fathers and he recognized me as such.

The other alternative besides the hotel for making a first call of selling papers was the lower part of St. Patrick’s street which was considered the red light district of the town and the girls on that side of the village were always

7

generous in their payment for the paper and were always waiting for us to provide them with the daily news for which they were willing to pay.

Our family consisted of my father George, my mother Nellie, my oldest brother Clifford, the next oldest was Georgie, then came Philip, I filled in as Victor

or the fourth boy, and later David became the fifth and last member of the family. To fill in and give a little resume of what constituted our family the five boys were as follows: There was John Clifford Brissell who was the oldest boy and he was born on April 7, 1902. My father had gone to England with a Mr. Garver selling zithers and they got acquainted with my mother in

Geo. L, Cliff, Geo., Nellie

England when it was necessary for him to get someone to accompany him as he made contacts and sales for the zithers. My mother was quite an accomplished pianist and this enabled the two of them to get better acquainted. They returned to the United States early in 1900 and took residence in Jefferson

Vic, Phil, Geo, Cliff

Canyon which was one of the earliest prospect places that had been visited by Jim Butler who had gone on record as the original discoverer of Tonopah as he prospected through the entire desert part of Nevada at that early date.

The next boy in the family was Georgie and that was George Levant Brissell and he was born on January 15,1904. Georgie met with an unfortunate accident after he had obtained

employment at one of the mines in Tonopah and while he was engaged in his work in one building a gentleman by the name of Winchester was cleaning rifles which had been used in a general strike in another building when an “empty” gun was accidentally fired and the bullet passed through the walls of the building and struck my brother Georgie killing him almost instantly.

Philip was the third boy in the family and he was born David, Philip, Vic Brissell WWII Photo

8

on May 28, 1909. Phil's lot to carry forward the names of several members of the family and as a result he wound up with Charles James Philip Brissell. Despite the conclusion of so many names in his life, he was better known by the name of Tip which stood for Tiporary as he was quite well known in the town in the early days as Tip Brissell who used to sing a good deal. He used to sing Tiporary and the name stuck with him the rest of his life.

I came in fourth, Victor Lewis Brissell on February 23, 1912. The Lewis was the result of a Lewis Davis who was a member of my grandmother’s family and who was part of the group of Brissells who lived at the home at Brougher and Prospect in Tonopah.

David, who was the last boy, was born on July 1, 1916 and he was the musical one of the family from the standpoint that he played the piano or the guitar or most any musical Instrument with very little

Vic Brissell

need for preparation. David was quite a boy. As of this writing which is of December 27, 1981, the family consisted of Clifford who is now living in Berkley, California and myself, Victor, who is residing here in Murray, Utah. Georgie was accidentally shot as I mentioned before when he was seventeen years of age and Philip and David both sustained nerve racking experiences while being engaged in World War II and passed away at the conclusion of the war from various nervous disorders which they came in contact with.

My memory does not recall the names of many of the friends which I had come in contact with in Tonopah, however, I do recall Leonard Truscott who was a neighbor boy that lived across the street. He was very musical and played the piano. Milo Banovich, Jack Douglas, Jimmy Ray, Bill Schmidt were a few of the boys that we used the chum around with and Catherine Slaven, Marjorie Mullen, Evangelen Dunston were the names of a few of the girls. Walter Anderson, Miss Cureax, Miss Bradley, Miss Slaven, Miss Gooch were some of my teachers who I was fortunate enough to have.

Geo. L. Brissell Spanish American War

9

A very common experience that sort of ties in with the school system and my apparent reluctance to go to school first in my act ivies occurred shortly after

World War I in 1920 when the government placed a lot of their surplus clothing for sale to the public and my mother where in an attempt to save a few dollars ordered some of the trench shoes which the Dough Boys used, and which were being sold very cheap from a catalog house, for all the boys. It was close to the summer and I recall staying down town watching World Series baseball score come in over the telegraph and then attempting to sneak back into school because I was late getting back to the school ground. The shoes weighed about ten pounds a piece and that I tip-toed down the hall to the school in an attempt to get into Miss Bradley's class it sounded like a heard of horses and needless to say I was not very successful in getting back into the classroom without causing quite a disturbance.

Mother always insisted that Sundays we would go to Sunday school and I was quite enthused about this program because I was given five cents to put into the collection box and at the same time I had an opportunity to talk to Evangelen Dunston who in my opinion at that time was the Marilyn Monroe of Tonopah. I would save the nickel from the Collection Box and see to it that I managed to buy a jaw breaker or two for Miss Dunston in which she took with great glee. We had a

lot of fun over my five cents because that was about all I had and my mother never knew that I was spending it on a woman. The means we had of raising a little bit of money was to go down to the mines and get around the timber section of the mine yard where they cut their timber for use underground. There was always quite a little amount of sawdust behind the saw and the butcher shops were always glad to give us twenty-five cents a sack for the sawdust which we sacked up and delivered to them to put on the floor for sanitary purposes.

I attended school in Tonopah through/the eighth grade at which time my father passed away and my mother seized upon this part of our lives to move to Berkley, California. This was about in 1928 at which time I transferred my schooling in Tonopah to the Garfield Junior High in Berkley, California. I was never much of a student and it seemed like I had to fight for every bit of credit I received

Nellie Brissell’s Front House Berkeley

10

because it was so hard for me to assimilate the knowledge which was required in these early days.

After graduating from Garfield in Berkeley, I attended Berkley High School for two years through the eleventh grade when I met Margaret Cannegieter on a summer vacation. At this time I had started to attend the West High School night school class [Salt Lake City, Utah] and completed a year of night school studies to complete my graduation from high school. Margaret and I were married during this period of time on November 27, 1935.

There was nothing outstanding about attending the West High School as it was a night school class and I was working all during the day either at the ZCMI appliance department or J. F. Hink and Sons in their shipping department and then later I was given the opportunity of working on the floor upstairs selling. Ben Jensen who came from Midvale, Utah was one of my choicest friends during this period of time and assisted me in my duties at J. F. Hinkinsons.

I spent one semester at ZCMI Business College where I got an inkling of bookkeeping and in 1939 I obtained a position at the United States Record Company. I worked until conditions in Europe became so bad that rationing was needed and merchandise so scarce that I was no longer able to continue my employment there. I then obtained a position with the Dupont Corporation who had built an ammunition factory here in Salt Lake City and in the Traffic Department of this large company I became quite successful in my operation and was paid accordingly.

I was drafted into the army from this position which I had at Dupont and I spent overseas in the 7th army in the 880th Field Artillery Battalion with the rank of Sergeant. Service battery was our responsibility, 18 trucks furnishing ammunition to firing battery consisting three batteries with 105 mm ammunition. I left the army on May 9, 1946 and was fortunate to be reemployed by Uniroyal or U.S. Rubber Company.

11

CHAPTER 2 MEMORIES BY HIS WIFE AND SISTER IN-LAW

How Vic First Met His Wife, Margaret Mary Cannegieter

By Florence Cannegieter Olsen Brissell (Written in 1997 at the request of Brad L Callister, Vic’s only grandson)

I went to Berkeley to help when Bill was born. I met my Ex-husband and Vic,

(they were best friends and were like brothers). I began

going with Will and

Vic came along too. I

introduced Margaret

to Vic (via letters)

they wrote to each

other for a time

before she came to

Berkeley. We met

her at the train and

they walked off as

(LtoR: Margaret, Bill J,

Florence)

though they had known each other for years. It wasn't

love at first sight, Margaret had a friend Taro (Bill)

Fairbourn and she couldn’t make up her mind between

them. I’m sure I influenced her as I wanted her to come and live in Berkeley. She finally

decided on Vic and I believe they were very happy.

Vic Brissell Meets Margaret Cannegieter – Marriage, Murray, Babies

By wife, Margaret Mary Cannegieter Brissell When I was 19, Florence had gone to Berkeley to help Stella when her son Bill

was born. Here Florence met Will, her future husband.

Together they decided they should introduce me to Vic. I

will quote the first letter I got introducing me to Vic - the next

summer on my vacation I went to Berkeley to see Stella and meet

Vic. We hit it off right away. After corresponding for 3 years, we

didn't have to get acquainted. Will's Dad chaperoned Florence and

Will, Vic and I, to Stimpson's Beach for a week. What a good time

we had! I fell like a ton of bricks and the feeling was mutual so Vic

and I had an understanding before I went home.

One Summer Florence and I went to California and when

we were coming back, Mr. Olson wanted us to bring back a bottle of his homemade wine

for Dad. It was during prohibition so we were reluctant to in case we were caught, but he

12

said if we put it in our suitcase no one would know. So we did! We put our suitcase under

out seat. It was a day coach and when the porter came around with his push broom, he hit

it and broke the bottle. Then the fun began! The wine started running out of the case; and

smelled to high heaven! We were both so embarrassed and didn't know what to do! I took

advantage of the few years Florence was older than me and told her this was up to her

and I went in the car ahead. There were some young boys across the aisle from us and we

heard them say "Hmm--the girls have a bottle". Florence took the case and went dripping

into the restroom, opened the window and threw out the offending bottle. The clothes in

the case were ruined.

Salt Lake City, Utah

June 26, 1933

Dear Vic,[Berkley, Calif.]

…I was awfully disappointed when I heard that you weren’t coming, but I really

believe I am just as enthused over coming there…..

I’m afraid I don’t look anything like my mother or my Dad, or even Flossie or

Stell. I suppose I’m in a class by myself.

I went swimming yesterday out to the Municipal Baths. … I am not among the

fortunate that tan easily….I suppose they (office staff) will never get through kidding me

about trying to get a sun tan…

I can hardly wait to meet everybody back there. It seems so odd for Flossie to

know so many people that I have never even seen. We have chummed around so much

together here that our friends, in most cases, are mutual.

I enjoyed your letter so much. I think it’s a lot of fun receiving letters from

someone I don’t know. I’ll be seeing you soon. Margo.

Friday Evening

February 1, 1934

Dearest Sweetheart;

It seems dearest, as though most of my letters lately have been receiving extra

special delivery…

Love me dear? As words seem to fail me whenever I try and tell you how much I

love you, believe me dearest when I say you are with me always in all my actions,

thoughts, dreams and darling, just always. Oh sweetheart I love you.

….And so dearest, please take care of yourself and remember, I love you and will

love you always. Until later, Vic

[continued from earlier Margaret story]

I fell in love with Vic because of his

thoughtfulness for others, which has become

more apparent over the years. I met Vic on July

19, 1932 and every 19th of the month he sent me

a nice card and a gift until we were married. Note found in Vic’s wallet

13

He has always been a real sweetheart to me.

Vic and I were married November 27, 1935, at home by Bishop Samuel

Bringhurst. It was a good marriage from the beginning. Vic and I decided we would both

have to work for a while if we

were to plan marriage in the

near future. I put my

application in for a job in

California and Vic in Salt

Lake. Then we sat back to

await developments Vic got a

job first with Western States

Grocery where I worked. I

made $90 a month, he $70.

Our first apartment was $29 a

month. We managed fine. I

was put in as M.I.A. President

and Vic Secretary. In 1939 I

became pregnant - we were

elated. But my blood-pressure

became high and July 5, 1940 I gave

birth to a baby boy - David George

who died at birth.

About 1938 I had gone to

work for U.S. Rubber. Then the axe

fell - war was declared. Vic and I took

Victor Young, then 7 months old to Hayward to Helen

[sister] and George who was stationed here. When we came

home Vic's draft notice was awaiting us. He was inducted

into the Field Artillery and stationed at Camp Adair, Salem,

Oregon. Mildred and Louie Neuman, friends of Stella [sister]

invited me to live with them while

Vic was there. I went and spent a

year. I appreciated the opportunity of being close to Vic. I was

there for a year.

Then I came

home for a thyroid

operation and went back

for a few months. From

here I went to Hayward

again and stayed until

the end of the War. In

the meantime, Vic had a

jeep accident in Germany. He had a compound

fracture broken leg. They slapped a cast on it

although it was not set properly. He was in the

hospital in Paris for some time, then shipped home to Dibble Hospital in Menlo Park,

14

California. Our friend, Jane Howard, has a twin, Janet, in Menlo Park who invited me to

visit her, which I did. I was here for V - J Day.

Then I came home and went back to work at U.S. Rubber. Vic eventually had an

operation and they put a steel plate in it. He was in a walking cast for some time. He was

hired at U.S. Rubber also and we lived with Mom and Dad with Helen and George,

Virginia and Bob. We had quite an experience, although pleasant altogether. We had

leased our home on Maple

Avenue to Tru Thaxton's - so now

we gave them notice and moved

back. I became pregnant - and in

November 27, 1942 the baby was

taken caesarean, as my condition

was serious - high blood pressure

again. The baby, Mary Margo

lived one day.

It was at this time we

applied for adoption. My nerves

took a beating at this time. When I had recuperated, I went to

work at Safeway Bakery for Joe Lajeunesse. He was a prince to work for. After a few

months I went back to U.S. Rubber to work. I became pregnant again and because of my

high blood pressure spent most of my time in bed and in the hospital from Nov. 1946 to

Jan. 17, 1947 when the baby, Paula Jane, was

born. She lived one week. For the last six

months of my pregnancy I couldn't see because

of my blood pressure. I

went through the worst

period mentally of my

life. I was sure I was

losing my mind and it

wasn't until we were

called in to get Susan for

adoption that I got relief.

From the beginning she

won us over and my nervous troubles were over. Margo & Vic by Maple St. Home

At this time [1962] we moved to our new home on 436 Shamrock. I took a job as

Sunday School Teacher. I went to work at Hi-Land Dairy part-time in 1953. Vic spent 8

years on the Murray School Board & when he was President we went to Atlantic City to

a Convention and visited Philadelphia, New York & Washington D.C..

15

MARGARET CANNEGIETER’s 1935 DIARY Excerpts

January 1

New Years – Dear diary, this is the very first time I have ever written in a diary. I didn’t

put any resolutions in writing but I am going to try to be more tolerant of the family and

improve general disposition. – Thru so soon!

January 2

….I’m terribly lonesome – nope I won’t be melancholy.

January 3

Have just written to Bernice and Vic. I wish the world were arranged so our dearest

friends could be with us always. I resolve not to become sentimental and blue. Now,

that’s a written law. Met Vivian today at lunch. Party tomorrow.

January 5

Bought a fur coat. I’m conscience stricken.

January 6

….I have missed Vic terribly today. Surely a good thing I work.

January 7

No letter !!! “When it looks like all is up – keep a goin” - but a letter

would help. A hectic day at work. Bleu called me to take part in a ward

play. It’s a kick. Dad’s the judge. Better start getting my 8 hours.

January 8

No letter!!! ….

January 9

…Missed my bus and waited 40 minutes. Home at 1:10 – no letter!

January 10

The world is in turmoil. Cliff’s home. Made a beautiful picture for

Virginia. A small note from Vic via Cliff. Letter from Florence &

Will. Will's out of a permanent job. Wish the four of us were together

to plan a campaign. I feel like challenging the world.

January 11

…I have run out of allowances for Vic’s not writing. I’ll have to admit

I don’t know what to think. New fellow to work in the office

tomorrow. Just too bad for you Mr. Brissell, if he’s single &

handsome.

16

January 12

….. I at last, received a letter from Vic. I haven’t answered it yet but will for sure

tomorrow. I didn’t go to work today (17th). Excused myself with a headache.

Stella and I went to town - purchased print for curtains for Will’s room. … I only

hope that Vic will be able to come to Utah to take up permanent residence. I am sure

everything will work out for the best so – no more worries. I’m up to date – no more

missing.

January 19

Half a day at work. Had a long confidential talk with Mr. Young. One of his nice days. I

liked him. He is going to try to get Vic a job in the whse (warehouse). Gosh! Life could

be so wonderful.

January 20

… Opened my gift from Vic, bless him. The grandest gloves. I love him so much.

January 21

Twenty-first birthday. I’m of age now so no bossing do I take.

January 22

…Mr. Young gives me so much encouragement about Vic’s job,

I’m all thrilled.

January 28

Golly! No letter! Florence said Vic had such a cold he had to

leave school early. I wish I were with him.

January 29

Dear diary – Received a letter from Vic. If I could only talk with

him tonight. It is so hard to keep my spirits up. Mutual.

January 30

11:30. I’m so sleepy – have started to answer Vic’s letter – too

sleepy. Good night.

January 31

…I miss Vic so much. I just couldn’t live if I didn’t have him.

February 2

Kinda bluish. Florence came home & just to see them so happy

makes me blue – it isn’t sensible but – downright selfish. Wish,

Vic were here – gee I love him.

17

February 3

Almost forgot to write. Had to get out of bed. I have just written to Bernice & Vic – I feel

optimistic. Gee we’re going to be happy. I am now if I weren’t lonesome.

February 5

Just home from Mutual. I acted in a little skit as a misbehaved

daughter of the house – quite natural. I am a little more

optimistic today. It is hard to remember to be cheerful when I am

so lonesome.

February 8

Gosh oh gee, I feel rotten. Want to write to Vic but I feel so

miserable.

February 9

The Opera night. It was really a knock – out. Virginia & Morris

(Cannegieter sister & brother) stole the show. Had my hair cut

short. Miss Vic so much. I wish I could write sensible.

February 12

Mutual. Had a Lincoln Memorial program. After we practiced for a play. … I wish Vic

were here. I love him so.

February 13

… I’ve felt so well today – a letter and an adorable Valentine gift from Vic.

February 15

… I can’t keep my mind off of food. Another quartet practice. Think I’ll write to Vic.

February 18

Monday but not a blue one, even if Vic didn’t send a letter. I’ll bet he is awfully busy.

Think I’ll … write to Vic.

February 19

Mutual tonight. We practiced for our play & I think it will be good. Bleu said that our

quartet was judged the best number on Sunday program.

February 20

… Wonderful letter from Vic.

February 21

… Sent Vic a birthday gift tonight. I’m upstairs just going to write to Vic.

February 22

Mmm – how I love to sleep the clock around. Billy & I went for a walk around the park

(Murray-behind home).

18

February 23

Vic is 23 today. …

February 25

… Letter from Vic. I’m going to write him.

February 26

… Went to Mutual & have been practicing for the play. No letter today. Maybe better

luck tomorrow. Here’s hoping.

February 27

Letter from Vic!! Caught cold.

February 28

Oh Gee! I believe in miracles – almost certain Vic’s going to be hired. I’ll never be able

to thank Mr. Kidd if everything works out. I’m so gosh darned happy.

March 2

… Oh, gee, not very much happens to me. Wait until Vic comes!

Diary Ends Here

19

CHAPTER 3

PICTURES – MARRIAGE (1935) to WWII SERVICE (1943)

-

20

21

CHAPTER 4

WWII PERIOD (1943-1946) PICTURES & LETTERS

22

WWII PERIOD LETTERS

(See all letters in a separate document)

August 31, 1943 Letter from Vic to Margaret – reference to being drafted

September 17, 1943 Letter from Vic in Oregon to wife Margaret in Murray

October 27, 1943 Letter from Margaret in Oregon to husband Vic in Oregon

October 9, 1944 Letter from Vic in Ft Leonard Wood, Mo. to wife Margaret

January 24, 1945 Letter from Vic in France to wife Margaret

May 10, 1945 Letter from Vic in Germany to wife Margaret

1946 May 6 Letter From Margaret found in Vic’s Uniform pocket in 2010

Note from Vic’s personal history: “I was drafted into the army … and I spent overseas in

the 7th army in the 880

th Field Artillery Battalion with the rank of sergeant. Service

battery was our responsibility, 18 trucks furnishing ammunition to firing battery

consisting three batteries with 105 mm ammunition. I left the army on May 9, 1946 and

was fortunate to be re-employed by Uniroyal or U.S. Rubber Company.”

August 31, 1943

Dearest Margaret Darling;

Years and years ago (so it seems) it was always a problem

for you and I to have to say good bye at the end of our vacation

time. Remember how we used to dread it. Well Darling, after

saying those goodbyes we managed to stay happy by writing to

each other and before we knew it, we were back together again

for another vacation.

Now honey, we have had to say goodbye again and we

were a little out of practice, but dearest, it won’t be long before

we can be together again. We can take it darling.

Miss me like you used to dearest and tell me how much in

your letters. Write to me often and I will do the same,

Always remember dearest that I love you with all my

heart and soul and I will just be hoping and praying I won’t be away too long. Be a good

soldier and I will try to and be the same. All my love always, Your Vic.

Camp Adair, Oregon

September 17, 1943

Dearest Darling,

Oh my sweetheart, just to have heard your voice for those few minutes tonight

was the most wonderful experience I hope to have for a long time. I have so missed the

sound of your voice my darling, and sweetheart, I could hear your ___. I’m sorry I made

it hard for you to hear me, but dearest, it must have been the connection. I called from

the telephone exchange and honey, it was so crowded and the booths are far from private,

so unless I hollered, I guess you didn’t hear all I had to say. Darling, all I wanted to do

was listen to you talk, to have you tell me you love me and miss me. Oh my darling, I

had such a hard time swallowing, the old lump was right in my throat, but darling, I could

23

still be there as far as the thrill was concerned. It was a thrill greater than I realized

anything could be. It just did something to me, something I needed. …

Darling sweetheart, now I must say -- goodnight. Again, I am so darned happy to

have heard your voice tonight. It has me all a tingle and I am just as happy over it as I

can be. I love you my darling dearest, with all my heart. You’re wonderful and will

always be the most wonderful girl in the world. So for now -- goodnight. Always and

ever, your Vic.

Salem, Oregon

October 27, 1943

(Note: Vic had just been called into the service)

Dearest Sweetheart,

Ain’t it awful? So near and yet so far. I am having a very nice time. Mildred is a

very nice hostess and lets me wait on myself. Everything is going to be perfect darling.

Gosh, the doorbell just rang and it was a soldier – darn! My heart was pitter – pattering.

Honey, couldn’t I come to the post or Corvallis sometime and meet you? Gee, I’m

so anxious to see you.

The Neuman’s are all a person could ask – at least Mildred and Joan, the little girl

Laurie is on a trip. I haven’t met him yet…

Lover, dear, guess I’ll go to bed, first a bath. I love you darling, and gee I’m

anxious. Heaps of Love, Margo

Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.

Oct. 9, 1944

My Dearest Sweetheart,

Once again my darling we find it necessary to say goodnight – in a letter, and my

darling, it is sure hard to do. It has been so very, very wonderful these past full, although

too short, days. Darling, my love for you is as great & the desire to be with you always is

so strong, that having to say good bye is so hard to do. But my dearest, as soon as it is

possible for you to be near where I am stationed, we both know that is where you will be.

And darling, soon we pray it will be possible for us to be together again, never to be

separated again. I do love you so my sweetheart, you are & always will be the most

wonderful girl in the world. Always love me dear heart, and my darling, remember

always that you mean everything in the world to me. You are my whole life. It has been

such a wonderful life with you my darling, all these interruptions & separations from our

being together will soon be at an end. And my dearest, it will be so wonderful when our

happiness will be complete & are once again together. So my darling, good night, sleep

well my darling, and remember all of my love & thoughts are with you always. So

dearest, with all my love & kisses, remember me always as your ever loving Vic.

France

January 24, 1945

My Darling,

Seems like a long time between letters sweetheart, but everything has been so

miserable and upset around here that I haven’t been able to write too regularly, however

dearest, I am thinking of you every minute and love you so very much. This is the second

24

letter I have written dear heart since we left the boat, although I wrote 5 while on board. I

hope the mail is coming through to you fairly regularly. The mail call here has been

terrible so far dearest, in fact I haven’t received a letter yet, however I know there is

plenty on the way and hope it arrives before too long.

France is terrible dear heart. The mud is never ending, the rain is faithful for once

a day and it makes everything so darn cold and damp. We get up in the mud, eat in the

mud, work in mud and if one isn’t very careful, sleep in the mud. However darling, if I

could just forget the thousands of miles that separates us, it could easily be Oregon. One

change that is definitely for the good is the food. We are getting plenty to eat. The only

thing about it is that you have to gulp it down before it gets cold.

Love and Kisses. Always and ever, Your Vic

Germany

May 10, 1945

My Dearest,

Please excuse the Vmail my darling and also that I am only writing every other

day, because although the news from here has been so big the last few days I know you

have seen it in the papers and actually our situation hasn’t changed at all. Our time is

spent mostly on P.W.’s and refugees, neither of which led to anything that could be

pictured in words as very good. The P.W.’s dejected attitude and the refugees joy at

being returned to their homes only add to the general idea that war is hell. The people

here have just finished a three day celebration at the end of the war, although after seeing

their country as we have since the first of the year, I don’ see how they stood it as long as

they did. Darling, no mail from you lately and I am beginning to fell as you do. I hope

my letters are coming through now and that dearest heart, you are well and as happy as it

is possible to be. I am well dearest, and love you so very very much. You are extra

wonderful darling. Love and Kisses. Always and ever, Your Vic

May 6, 1946

398 Vine St, Murray, Utah

To Sgt. V. L. Brissell

Madigan Convalescing Hospital

Ft. Lewis, Washington

(Letter found in Vic’s Uniform pocket)

My Own Darling,

While waiting for my nails to dry (Bridget party tonight) and listening to our

radio, thought I’d snatch a minute to say “Hello Darling.” These sentimental songs sure

make me extra lonesome for my honey. Gee it will be wonderful to listen to them

together…! They’re playing “Just Like Old Times” Gee every song seems written just for

us. I love my darling so awful much. Love me always dearest, you are my own dear

wonderful sweetheart…..Heaps of XXX and OOO. Margo

Saturday 10 p.m. In bed. I’m in charge of Robert (Madsen) and Vicky (Young).

Helen (sister) & George (Young) are having a party … Virginia (sister) & Bob (Madsen)

have gone to a show. Robert, Vickie and I have been in “our” bed and I’ve read to them.

25

Bobbie fell asleep so he’s in his little sack. Vicky is still going strong… writing you a

letter. I’ll send it along if I remember.

Gee the house looks so good. Mom’s new dining room set looks super.. and

Helen’s slipcovering. Mom & Dad are staying the night at Stella’s so the kids have the

place to themselves …. about 50 of them. ….I love you dearest and miss you so.

All my love always, Margo.

Sunday 1 p.m.

Just talked to my own dear sweetheart and gee I’m so excited and thrilled. Honey,

it’s the last lap. I can’t believe it. I’m going to take a day off when you come honey if

it’s in the middle of the day, how about letting me know and I’ll meet the plane, even

though I go out on the bus it would be fun. Or maybe I could borrow a car if I knew

ahead of time. Vicky, I can’t believe it .. it seems something will sure turn up to spoil

it…but it won't will it?

I’m driving out to the airport (small Alta Airport managed by Bob) to drive

Robert Jr home (he’s with Bob) so see you later my won honey. xxoo, Margo.

(Later on Sunday) …. Well my own dearest, I’ll say goodnight…how I wish you

were here with me. The radio is on..."Sunday Evening on Temple Square”…I love my

honey so much. Goodnight lover, Margo.

26

27

CHAPTER 5

WWII ERA MURRAY EAGLE NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

1943 Oct 28 Margo & Virginia join Husbands - in Army, Mrs.W.Cannegieter

1944 Apr 13 FOE - Vic Home Army Report

1944 Apr 27 Margaret Brissell returns to Oregon

1944 May 11 Tribute Mr. Robinson - Cannegieter Program

1945 Mar 15 Margo Brissell living in Evanston Ill

1945 Aug 23 Margo with Vic B wounded in CA

1945 Aug30 End of Article - Margaret Visit Vic in California Recuperating

1945 Sep 20 Vic Furlough

1945 Oct 4 Brissell’s & Johnson’s Party - Murray Notes

1945 Dec 6 Brissell Anniversary Party, Vic Visits Mom - Cottonwood News

1946 Jan 24 Cannegieter Sisters Sing in MIA

1946 May 16 Vic Wounded WA, CA, Home in Murray - South Cottonwood

1946 Jun 20 Eagles at State Convention - Vic

1943 Oct 28 Margo & Virgina join Husbands Army, Mrs. Wm. Cannegieter

1944 Apr 13 FOE - Vic Home Army Report

1944 Apr 27 Marg B returns to Oregon

1945 Mar 15 Margo B living in Evanston Ill

1945 Aug 23 Margo with wounded husband Vic B in CA

28

1945 Aug 30 End of Article-Margaret Visit Vic CA Recuperating

1945 Sep 20 Vic Furlough

1945 Oct 4 Brissell’s & Johnson’s Party - Murray Notes

1945 Dec 6 Brissell Anniversary Party, Vic Visits Mom-Cottonwood News

1946 Jan 24 Cannegieter Sisters Sing - MIA

1946 May 16 Vic Wounded WA, CA, Home in Murray-South Cottonwood

29

1946 Jun 20 Eagles at State Convention-Vic

POST-WAR MURRAY EAGLE NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

(See all Brissell & Cannegieter articles in a separate document)

1948 Dec 17 Eagles Christmas Party Children - Vic

1948 May 28 Eagles Install Officers - Vic

1950 Feb 24 Congratulations - Vic DOB

1951 Jun 1 FOE – Vic Brissell & Morris Chairs

1952 Jun 20 Murray Eagles - Vic Family Vacation in California

1954 Jul 30 Eagles - Vic Brissell Sick on Vacation

1957 Jun 20 Vic Brissell Appt to School Board

1958 May 22 Murray Jr High Grad - Vic Brissell spoke

1960 Jun 30 July 4 Celebration - Vic Secretary

1948 Dec 17 Eagles Xmas Party Children -Vic

1948 May 28 Eagles Install Officers

1950 Feb 24 Congratulations - Vic Birthday!

30

1951 Jun 1 FOE – Vic Brissell & Morris Chairs

1952 Jun 20 Murray Eagles - Vic Family Vacation in CA

1954 Jul 30 Eagles - Vic Sick on Vacation

1957 Jun 20 Vic Brissell Appointment to School Board

1958 May 22 Murray Jr High Grad-Vic Brissell spoke

1960 Jun30 July 4 Celebration - Vic Secretary

31

CHAPTER 6

BRISSELL FAMILY - SUSAN’S BIRTH (1947) to MARRIAGE (1971)

32

Gma Cannegieter,Margo, Susan,1950

33

Phil’s Lena, Son, Vic, Susan, Cliff, Happy, Nellie

Susan, Vic, Margaret, Nancy Young

34

Susan’s U of U Graduation

VICTOR BRISSELL AS A GRANDFATHER – PHOTOS

1977 Susan, Vic, Karee, Margaret, Mindy, Florence Karee, Susan, Margaret, Mindy, Vic, Florence

35

Karee, Vic, Jamie & Mindy Karee, Vic, Mindy & Huge Radish

Mindy & Karee with Grandpa at Lagoon

Susan, Mindy, Brad, Karee, Vic, Jamie

Mindy, Vic, Karee & Jamie Vic, Jamie, Karee, Mindy Vic, Margo, Mindy, Karee

36

37

CHAPTER 7

Margaret Brissell’s Account of Vic’s Support during her Final Illness

“God was good. Dear Vic was cutting down on his smoking and I knew he

planned to join the Church when he overcame the smoking habit. He told me he prayed

every day for my recovery. He has come a long way in his beliefs about the Church – he

is so wonderful. He came to the hospital at 8, 12 and 6 to help me with my meals, kept

my nighties washed and was such a comfort to me. Thanks, dear God, for such a

wonderful husband. I had such a lovely roommate LaVern Kenman, I enjoyed her so

much. She had such a sense of humor. My hospital hours were more pleasant for her

company.

Then came my therapy I told the therapist that I had to be able to lift up my first

grandchild in January. He said I would have to settle for having her placed in my lap. Not

pick up my first grandchild. Involuntarily my eyes filled with tears. I hid them until I got

to my room then the dam burst and I had my first good cry – but I remembered God’s

promise and from then on I worked hard to get more feeling in my arm and leg.

Then Dr. Miller came home from his vacation and I was given a release day. What a big

day!

My little three-year-old neighbor, Jeff [Parson], was there to greet me-came close

for his hug, threw his chest out and said, “Here I am!” How refreshing is the love of a

child.

My Sunday school class had gone together to the florist and picked me out some

flowers and each signed a lovely card, professing their love. How thrilling to have their

good thoughts! One by one they came to see me when I got home-and how wonderful

were the neighbors!

But the devil never gives up. On January 27, I awoke very depressed. Vic had

already got up and I was glad he couldn’t see my tears; he is so considerate and does so

much for my happiness. Soon he came into the bedroom and said, “Good morning,

Grandma!” My depression was forgotten. Jerry had taken Susan to the hospital and would

call us as soon as the baby arrived. The day was endless – then at five, our tiny

granddaughter Karee was born. What a thrill! The next day, difficult as it was, Vic

managed to get me to the car in a wheelchair and so to the hospital. We saw Susan and

the baby. She is a beauty!”

“Wonderful Vic! Whenever I would have a despondent spell he would take me

out somewhere and “kid” me until I would begin laughing. His “cross” is much more

than mine and he never lets me know if he is discouraged. Bless his heart, he has given

up smoking. It has been two months since he had a smoke.

The winter of 1972-73 was awful – both the weather and my attitude. I still did

not have courage to brave going to Relief Society without Vic’s help. We did get to

Sacrament Meeting quite regularly. My wonderful family had us over to dinner often

which helped pass away many sad hours. My sweet daughter Susan has come twice a

week to stay with me and has kept up my washing and ironing. Dear Vic has vacuumed

and dusted, shopped and cooked – so uncomplaining and cheerful.”

“I know I am improving but I am so anxious to do so much. I guess I am

ungrateful to God. Forgive me, dear Father; please help me to be more patient. I do have

faith that I will recover, just as I have faith that Vic will someday join the Church and we

38

can be sealed for time and eternity together and with our children and grandchildren.”

[Note: Vic joined the LDS church in July 30, 1982. He went to the Jordan River Temple

and was sealed to Margaret on May 31, 1984. Their daughter Susan served as proxy for

her mother.]

39

CHAPTER 8

SUSAN’S MEMORIES OF GROWING UP

(Reflections by Vic’s daughter Susan Jean Brissell Callister)

I remember singing for the Fraternal

Order of Eagles (FOE). I wore a fancy dress and

sang for them one time. My parents and grandpa

Cannegieter were members of this service

organization and we used to attend various

parties there, including at Christmas time.

The Cannegieter cousins often got

together at my home to play in the pool, my club

house and to play games and have lunch.

Sometimes we would go to Murray Park. Mom

helped me and my

friends. We had my

friends over to our

home quite often to

play – mom always fixed lunch for us – sometimes in boxes.

We lived on Maple Street in Murray until I was 16. I

loved the snow and our family always went sleigh riding and

then had chili afterwards to

warm us up! I loved

playing in the snow and

making snow angels. We

often had enough snow

that I could sleigh ride in

my front yard. I liked

playing ball with the

neighborhood boys. I was

the only girl on the team, so the pressure was on. My

Dad taught me how to catch and hit the ball. I loved to

play on my swing set with my friends. Sometimes my

Dad would watch me (see photo). One day I fell out of the

swing and hurt my neck.

I remember my Dad taking me and my friends to the

Lagoon amusement park. If I was afraid to go on a ride he

would go with my friends. Later he took my two oldest

daughters, Karee and Mindy there.

I remember having ice cream with Dad while mom

was at meetings or at the cabin in Brighton with her sisters.

We would walk over to the little ice cream place just west of

State Street a few blocks from our house when mom as at a

meeting or in the canyon with her sisters. When we got home

we would sit on the porch and eat it. I remember waiting for my dad to return home from

work on the bus and running to meet him – I just knew he would be excited to see me!

40

For Christmas we always had a beautifully decorated tree. Many cards were hung

on the mantel – this was always

a very fun time for me and my

mom and dad. One year I got a

kitten I named Patches for

Christmas.

At Easter there was always a

party with cousins and friends.

These were often held in our

backyard – we got all dressed up

with bonnets.

When we lived on Maple Street our neighbor

Mary Phelan, across the street was always nice to me. I

was a ‘flower girl’ for her daughter’s wedding. Grace &

Kelly (East of us) took care of me once when I had a bad

cold. They always joined us for Thanksgiving dinner.

I was really proud of my Lone Ranger bike – I

guess I was a bit of a tom boy. My dad taught me how to

ride it.

One of the funny things my dad did was slinking like a snake around a corner in

our home and trying to scare me and my friends.

A couple scary things happened at our home when we lived on Maple Street. One

time someone shined a flashlight into my bedroom. When I saw it I ran into my parent’s

bedroom. Another time our home was broken in to and a watch was stolen. People didn’t

lock their doors back in those days.

I helped mom hang our washed clothes on the clothes

line in our back yard. She taught

me how to sew, cook, and iron –

she was very proficient in all these

areas. As a little girl I really liked

to iron pillow cases and my dad’s

handkerchief.

My parents and I took

a vacation every year to

Berkeley California to visit my

grandmother Nellie Brissell. I

remember that my grandma

was quite strict and insisted

that I stay in my bed when I

was left alone with her. She

did send me a pretty red velvet

purse with five dollars inside

it. I still have it today. My

mom and I would go school shopping in San Francisco

and went to the beach. We stayed at motels on the way

where I played in the pools. We had big dinners at Aunt

41

Happy and Uncle Cliff Brissell’s home in Berkley. Other

places they vacationed include New Jersey (with school

board), Lake Tahoe, Oregon (beach), Mesa Verde,

Tonopah, Nevada, Redwood Forest and Disneyland.

My father worked at Hink’s as a clothing salesman

in Salt Lake City when he was first married. Later he

worked for U.S. Rubber, Roberts Rubber (part owner) and

Industrial Supply. His community

service included Murray School

Board 1960 – 1966. Fraternal Order

of Eagles financial clerk, LDS Ward

Young Men secretary & Scout

Committee. (The latter two were prior

to his becoming a member of the LDS

church). He and Margaret were part of an LDS Study group with

friends from the neighborhood. Vic also served on several Murray

city community events i.e. fourth of July celebration. He always

looked after his elderly neighbors. Cliff & Happy Brissell & Margo

My Jr. High School Years

My mom and dad helped me a lot in middle school. I was the Historian of the

school in the 9th grade. Other student body officers were my friends Judy Dyches, Greg

Fairbourne and Randy Black.

I took dancing lessons with Virginia Tanner at the McCune Mansion in SLC. I

also took tap dancing, swimming, ice skating and skiing lessons. The skiing lessons

didn’t last long! I was also in the Brownies and my Aunt Stella taught me how to

knit.

I liked taking trips to downtown Salt Lake City on the bus with my mother. We

would go to the Hotel Utah for lunch then shopping at ZCMI and other downtown

stores.

I liked cooking for my Dad for the week each year that my mom and her sisters

stayed in a cabin in Brighton - I felt quite in charge and it helped me learn to cook a

little.

I also enjoyed our annual trips to California to visit Grandma Brissell, Uncle Cliff

and Aunt Happy Brissell. Sometimes we would also see Uncle Phil and Aunt Lena and

Uncle Dave and his wife. We always went to San Francisco to get my school clothes.

We had big dinners at Aunt Happy and Uncle Cliff Brissell’s home in Berkley.

My Murray High School Years

I attended Murray High school. Mrs. Ward, my English and Journalism teacher,

was my favorite. I was in Accapella, Booster Club, Pepper Club and was in one play in

high school taking the role of Mrs. Fehr, one of our teachers. In Accapella we sang at

different places. We traveled on the school bus.

My mom and dad were very involved and supportive during my High School

years. They always treated my friends well. My Dad was also supportive and served on

the Murray School Board when I was in Jr. High and High School. He was always good

42

to help me with my school work. He also taught me to drive, something that made my

mother nervous.

I loved getting dressed up and going to my High

School proms. I wore a pretty pink formal to my senior prom

and went with Sam Dawson. I went to my junior prom with

Randy Black and wore a yellow dress.

I enjoyed going out to dinner with my parents during

my high school years. They always went to fancy places like

Finn’s – no drive-ins or fast food!

My parents made me feel loved by asking my advice

on important matters.

My College Years

My parents paid for my college education (Bachelor’s degree in education) at the

University of Utah. They also helped by driving me to and from school or letting me use

our car. They were always good to encourage me and help me when I needed it. I

graduated in 1970.

After College Graduation

My first job was teaching first grade at Longview Elementary school in the Murray

School district. My Dad helped me buy my first car. He and the salesman showed me a

1969 green Mustang with a leather top – I just had to have it even though they tried to

discourage me saying it had been in an accident – I just loved that car! Jerry and I drove

it for a few years after we were married. (Jerry’s car was a cute but scary little Karman

Ghia – it died the week prior to our marriage).

LETTERS

September 3, 1952

Dearest Susan Jean;

Daddy and Mommy are so proud of their little girl. Today is her first day of

school. Be a good girl, be nice to all the other little boys & girls, and be extra careful. I

know you will enjoy it, and Dad will be thinking about you. Loads of love & kisses,

Dad. P.S. See you tonight. Be sure & tell me all about it. XXXOOO.

February 1957

Dear Momma and Daddy;

I will miss you so very much. I love both of

you very much. Your so kind. I hope you have a

nice time at Calif. Remember that I love you very

much. I am very sorry Daddy’s Mommie died but I

guess God needs Grandma in heaven. I hope you

have a very nice plane ride. Love, Susan XOXO.

P.S. You are both very nice.

Vic, Margaret & Susan 1968

43

March 23, 1969

Dear Dad,

You know it is a real special thing to have the title of dad, especially if a dad can

be all the things you are! Everything you stand for Dad is good. You always put yourself

in last place and your family in first place. Even now when your mind is troubled [work

issues] – you put your family first. I wish I could be more like you…. Love, Susan

December 22, 1970

Dear Mom & Dad,

To take a piece of paper and a pen and try to write about love and appreciation is

really quite an impossible task. I guess that sometimes words just don’t exactly convey a

true picture of what the writer is trying to say.

I want to thank you both so much for the wonderful life you have given me. I

couldn’t have asked for anything more – my whole life with you two has been perfect.

You have always made me feel loved, and I always knew I had someone to talk to if I

needed some advice. I really think many people are jealous of me because I have such

wonderful parents, and I have always had such a happy home life. It has been an

extremely secure feeling to know that I have parents who love me and whom I love very

much also. I hope when I get to be a parent, I can be as good as you two are.

I know it will seem different not to have Mom tie my bows anymore or Dad to fix

my breakfast, but maybe just the memory of all the good things you have done for me

will make me a better person – at least, I will realize how it makes a person feel when she

knows that she counts and she is a real special person.

When I get married I’ll probably be home more than I am now using the washing

machine, listening to the stereo or watching colored television.

I love you both very much – you two are the most wonderful people I have ever

known. Love, Always, Suzy.

February 9, 1978

Dear Mom & Dad,

It seems that many times we don’t express our appreciation to those we love very

often. I’ve been guilty of this, but I’ll try harder to improve my bad habits!

Both of you have always been the best parents anyone could ever hope to have.

Besides being good parents, you’re both like good friends. I have great respect for both of

you and admire your many outstanding qualities.

I love you both very much and feel very proud that you are my parents.

Love, Suzy

Jerry P Callister’s Reflections about his Father In-law Victor L Brissell

I must add here that I have the greatest respect for Vic, my father in-law. What a

devoted husband and father. He was like Margaret in his kindness towards each other,

Susan, me, their grandchildren and his Cannegieter relatives and neighbors – especially

the elderly. Vic was totally committed to the care, support and protection of Margaret and

Susan. At work he was very conscientious and worked hard. Vic was respectful of others

44

and liked good manners. He enjoyed watching baseball, basketball and football. Susan

remembers him going to Candlestick Park in San Francisco to watch baseball. Vic would

buy yard games i.e. Lawn darts, for me and him to play in his yard. He was extremely

attentive to Margaret during her last illnesses which lasted from 1972 to 1978. Even with

extreme back pain he just kept going, doing what he felt she needed. The day she passed

away he came to my office and told me, with big tears in his eyes, that this was it! The

doctor had told him that they would be taking away the breathing tubes from her that

evening and that she would pass away shortly thereafter in the LDS hospital. I felt so bad

for him and myself. We had a good cry then he left requesting that Susan and I be there in

the hospital with him and Florence that night. The four of us were there when she

breathed her last breathe. It was so hard to see her go but a relief that her mortal suffering

was past.”

45

CHAPTER 9

DAUGHTER, SUSAN JEAN BRISSELL’s WEDDING

by Mother Margaret C Brissell - June 1971

The first day of spring in 1947 was the most memorable that had ever been. The

most beautiful little flower was given to us to love.

Susan settled down with us and made

herself part of our

hearts from the

moment we saw her.

She was a lively

little jumping jack

and we often

marveled at all the

energy wrapped up

in such a small

package. She was

happy and smiling

and always

enthusiastic and it

was very easy to spoil her and she soon had us

wrapped around her tiny fingers.

There were the usual childhood diseases, but she was never seriously ill. There

were dancing lessons, piano lessons, birthday parties, Easter egg hunts, vacation trips,

Halloween trick & treating and Christmases, all made so much more meaningful because

of that little red head.

It seems like overnight she put away her

dolls and told

us we could

give her

playhouse to

some little

kids.

Then

other important

things began

happening. She

began to notice

there were

boys in the

world. So there were new hair styles to try, nylons,

lipstick and grown up clothes; ball games pep clubs

and dances.

Mutual took over where primary left off and

she was no longer a little girl but a beautiful young

lady. There was never a generation gap in our family. Maybe it was because Susie was

46

such a talker and loved to share her experiences with us. We were thrilled along with her

for each accomplishment and sad for each disappointment for, of course, she had some of

them too.

She had many boyfriends, some we hoped she wouldn't take seriously and some

we wondered if she might.

Graduation from high school, then college.

Susan 1965

The first year was a challenge and the three of us studied and worried, thrilled and

despaired and finally it was over and we all felt that we

had graduated with honors.

The second year was much better, the third was

really fun and the senior year was a breeze - Graduation

from college, another milestone. A contract to teach first

grade; the anxiety of the summer; wondering if she could

teach the little kids what she should. Planning programs

making bulletin boards, planning decorations and a

hundred other things.

Another first day of school, then gradually getting

into the swing of teaching. The children learned to read &

write, she loved teaching and loved the children and was

loved by them in return.

The thrill of the first payday. The dismay of how

much was withheld. The thrill of a new car. The shock of

the large payments.

47

The days slipped

away and we were beginning

to wonder if she was so

attached to her father that

she would never find anyone

who could take his place and

then she met Jerry. She

knew as soon as she met him

that he was the one and so

did we, the look in her eyes

fairly shouted it.

(Susan and Jerry Callister

Wedding Reception. LtoR: Lathel & Margaret Callister,

Jerry & Susan, Margaret & Vic

Brissell)

Notes by Margaret to sister

Florence: “This is a small resume, you will know what to elaborate on and what to leave

out. The ring, the showers, getting ready to go through the Temple, the wedding dress,

the bridesmaids etc. etc. Meeting Jerry’s family.”

“Conclusion: Now, Jerry and Susan, Mr. & Mrs. Callister, the next chapters we will leave

to you. We believe you are prepared and ready to begin your lives together and remember

that we will be rooting for you and loving you always. – Mom & Dad”

Postscript: 10-12-1972, Susan is pregnant! Expecting 1-20-1972.

TRIBUTE to MARGARET C BRISSELL

Written by a granddaughter Mindy Callister Robison-2007

My Grandmother, Margaret, married Victor Brissell and wanted more than

anything to have a family. She was pregnant 3 times only to have all 3 children die, a

stillborn, one lived 1 day, and one lived a week. She had such faith and hope that one

child who lived a week would make it, but it was not so. The three births took a toll on

her body and spirit. She was blind for a short time after the third birth. The doctors told

her that she could not have any children.

She and Victor decided to adopt. She suffered from health problems and they

were told that they could only adopt one child, my Mom, Susan Jean Brissell Callister.

My grandmother loved my Mom more than you can imagine and was an incredible

mother to her. Once my mother was adopted, Margaret became much more active in the

Church and even served as the Stake Primary President. Margaret loved children and

was constantly teaching them in her callings. She loved being a homemaker and was an

amazing seamstress!

48

Unfortunately, health problems plagued her. When my Mom was in the 7th grade

she suffered her first stroke. Later, shortly after my Mom was married she suffered

another more severe stroke. She also was plagued with cancer. She had always looked

forward to the birth of her grandchildren, but her doctor devastated her when he told her

she would never hold her first grandchild because of the stroke. My grandmother lived

for a short while to only barely know my sister and I.

She always believed that the cancer would go and she had such great faith that her

body would be healed, but it wasn’t. She loved her daughter and husband and died

before my grandfather went through the temple. In his 70’s my grandfather went through

the temple to be sealed to my grandmother and Mom. Margaret’s life was full of

challenges, her health, her parents both dying in her 30’s, and the death of her 3 children,

yet she loved life and had great faith and hope. She loved being a mother and was a

woman of incredible faith, courage, and strength. I look forward to the day that I will

meet her and get to know her!

VICTOR and MARGARET’S DEATHS

Susan wrote: My mother passed away June 6, 1978 at the LDS hospital after

several years of illness including a stroke and cancer. At

the time we had three

children, Karee 5, Mindy 4,

and Jamie about 1. This was

a very sad time for us and

my father, but she needed

relief from her suffering. Her

funeral was held in the

Murray 3rd

ward, with burial

in the Murray City cemetery.

My father passed

away December 8, 1986 at

the Veteran’s Hospital in

Salt Lake City, Utah following several years of illness

including dementia.

Murray Cemetery-Jamie, Mindy, Karee, Brad, Susan

49

CHAPTER 10

VICTOR L BRISSELL’S FAMILY and ANCESTORS

(Research by a distant relative, Harriet Martens of Sacramento, California. Photos by

Jerry P Callister)

Victor Lewis Brissell’s father is George Levant Brissell

George Levant's mother was born Alice Sarah Stevenson [Davis]

Her parents were an Unknown Stevenson and Jerusha F. Simons

Jerusha then married Lewis Morris Davis 1 Jan 1858

Jerusha’s parent’s are Silas Simons & Oril Fiske.

George Levant Brissell & Mary Ellen (Nellie) Appleton Family

GEORGE LEVANT BRISSELL, son of John Phillip Brissell and Sarah Alice

Stevenson (Davis) was born 23 Nov 1878 in Sacramento, California, and died 11 Feb

1924 in Sacramento, California. He married MARY ELLEN APPLETON 0l Jul 1901 in

Cardiff, Glamorgan

Monmouthshire,

Wales (Source:

England and Wales,

Civil Registration

Index 1837-1983, Dist

Cardiff (1837-1974);

Vol 11a; p. 584.),

daughter of JOHN

APPLETON

and ELIZA

GLITHERO. She was born 08 May 1875 in Corby, Kettering,

Northampshire, England (Source: England and Wales, Civil

Registration Index 1837-1983, Dist Kettering; Vol. 3b;P.177.),

and died 30 Jan 1957 in Berkeley, Alameda, California (Source:

California Death Index, 1940-1997).

Geo. L Brissell & John F. Appleton

50

Notes for George Levant Brissell:

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 61, Number 129, 24 July 1889

(Tenth & Eleventh Street School – 7th

grade – George Brissell)

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 61, Number 130, 25 July 1889

Following are the closing exercises of Miss McManus' seventh-grade class in the

Seminary building, on I street, July 24th: … "Little Brown Thrush.' George Brissell;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 79, Number 128, 23 July 1890

(Grammer School promotions: George Brissell from 7th grade – Union Primary School)

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 97, Number 2, 23 February 1899

George L. Brissell, son of Deputy Constable Brissell of this city, passed through here last

evening, en route to Ohio, where he has secured the general agency of the Pacific Guitar-

Zither Company.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 92, Number 156, 25 January 1897

Remaining in the Postoffice a.t Sacramento, January 25, 1896… Brissell George L;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 81, Number 134, 28 July 1891

Union Primary School. Fifth Grade, Miss J. Smith, teacher—…George Brissell

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 84, Number 65, 4 November 1892

Mrs. John P. Brissel and son have returned from Pacific Grove.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 85, Number 133, 26 July 1893

Closing Exercises That Are to be Held This Week. [George Brissel 6th

grade]

Service Unit: (6 California Infantry)

51

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 98, Number 67, 27 October 1899

George Brissel Now in England on a Business Venture. John P. Brissel yesterday

received a very interesting letter from his son George, written on board the United States

mail steamer New York a few days before her arrival in England, whither he goes as

agent for the American Guitar and Zither Company of San Francisco. Young Brissel is

but 20 years of age, but he was one of the first to offer his country his services in the

Spanish war. He was in Captain Lucey's Sacramento Company, which was mustered out

last spring. Enclosed in the letter is a neatly printed program of a "Grand Concert" given

by the saloon passengers on board the New York in mid-ocean. It was in aid of the fund

of the American Seamen's Friend Society of New York; the Society for the Relief of the

Destitute Children of Seamen, Staten Island: the New York Mariners' Family Asylum;

the Blue Anchor Society, and the Seamen's Orphanage of Southampton, Eng. The part

that fell to Mr. Brissel was the recitation of "The Drowning Singer." Judging from the

numbers on the program, the entertainment was first class. The "Star-Spangled Banner"

and "God Save the Queen" were also rendered. At the bottom of the program the guests

were informed that "Carriages may be ordered at 10:30." Young Brissel, who was born in

this city, has started out with a determination to make his way through the world on

business lines, and will first try his hand in the big cities of Europe.

52

1901 Marriage record for George Levant Brissell & Mary Ellen Appleton

June 27, 1925 Letter from George L Brissell in San

Francisco, to his wife Nellie in Tonopah:

Dear Nellie;

Just a line to say day by day in every way, I am feeling

better and better. Really this afternoon I felt fine. I got up this

53

morning with a splitting headache but it wore off about eleven. The doctor says it is

caused by reaction of the nerves, but it will not last

long. Hope

not.

Tod

ay was nice

in the city,

but it was

foggy and

cold out at

the beach.

Could not

stay there.

Just

happened to

think, what

are the

photograph

ers doing? I

did not see

their

advertiseme

nt in the paper. …

Well dearest – it’s nearly 24 years of

married life for us. I hardly remember of being

single and believe me this forced separation gets

my goat. I look at the women here on the streets

and kind of compare them with you. Shucks they

don’t’ stack up at all. Haven’t seen a darn one

that seems all there, but same as you. You know I

must be thinking of you all the time because we

cannot go far without seeing women.

Well, it will always be the same with me.

… Love and Kisses, George

1910 Census Nevada, Nye, Tonopah 2-Pct, Dist

58

John P. Brissell a. 65 ml 35yrs

Alice S. a. 55 ml 35 yrs (l,l)

Child George L. a. 3l m1 29 yrs

1920 Census Nevada, Nye, Tonopah

George Brissell a.39 Occupation - Photographer

Nellie a. 38

Clifford J. a. 17

George M. a. 15

54

Phillip a. l0

Victor a. 7

David a. 3

NEWS: Reno Evening Gazelle (Reno, Nevada) 1924

January 30

A letter from Sacramento reports that George Brissell

from Tonopah is sinking rapidly at the home of his mother

in Sacramento where his wife was called last Friday.

1930 Census California Alameda Berkeley, Dist 317 Nellie Brissell a. 48 Wd m at 20

Phillip a.2A

Victor a. l8

David a. 13

1940 Census California Alameda Berkeley, Dist 317

Nellie Brissell a. 58

Birthplace: England

Marital Status: Widowed

Home in 1940: Berkeley, Alameda, California

Street: Milvia Street

Citizenship: Naturalized

House Owned or Rented: Owned

Value of Home: $3,000

Highest Grade Completed: College, 4th year

MARY ELLEN APPLETON (BRISSELL) was born 08 May 1875 in Corby,

Kettering, Northampshire, England (Source: England and Wales, Civil Registration Index

1837-1983, Dist Kettering; Vol. 3b; P. 177.), and died 30 Jan 1957 in Berkeley, Alameda

California (Source: Caledonia Death Index, 1940-1997.). She married GEORGE

LEVANT BRISSELL 0l Jul 1901 in Cardiff, Glamorgan Monmouthshire, Wales (Source:

England and Wales, Civil Registration Index 1837-1983, Dist Cardiff (1837-1974); Vol

1la; p. 584.), son of John (Phillip) Brissell and Alice Davis. He was born 23 Nov 1878 in

Sacramento, California" and died 11 Feb 1924 in Sacramento, California.

Notes for Mary Ellen Appleton:

1881 Census England Lancashire, Ardwick, Dist 10

John F. Appleton a.26 b. Snenton, Nottingham Occupation - House Painter

Eliza a.29 b. Corby, Northamptonshire

Mary E. a. 5 b. Corby, Northamptonshire

Emma D. a. 3 b. Leicester

George F. a. 1 b. Bermingham

55

1891 Census England, Lancashire, Levenshulme, Dist 93

John F. Appleton a.36 b. Shenlon, Nottingham

Eliza a. 39 b. Weldon, Northamptonshire

Mary E. a. 15 b. Corby, Northamptonshire

Emma a. 13 b. Percesley, Leicester

George F. a. 11 b. Birmingham Warwick

Eliza Jane a.7 b. Manchester, Lowe

Lillian a. 4 b. Manchester, Lowe

1901 Census Wales, Glamorgan, Canton, Dist 7

John Frederick Appleton a. 46 Occupation - Wholesale Druggist

Eliza a. 49

Mary Ellen a. 25

Eliza Jane a. 17

Lillian a. 14

Irene a. 9 b. Lancs, Manchester

Charles Robert a.7 b. Whitley, Northumberland

Marion a. 4 b. Cardiff, Glamorg

Mary Ellen (Nellie) Appleton Brissell’s only known Autobiography

(Found in an old lined ‘notebook’.)

“For many years I have intended to write, let me say part of my life since I arrived in

America, born in England, My Father was a Homeopathic Dr ____ (packer of drugs). I

received my education at Waltenlough seminary, in a place called Southaram. Close to

____ Yorkshire. Finishing at Broadmoor Seminary West ____ London. Was 19 when I

left school & began to take pupils to the piano. We lived in Cardiff, South Wales. Met

with an accident to my teeth. My father took me in to a dentist and on the way home met

Mrs. Cohen, my father’s tailor, mother of one of my pupils, she told me she had a young

gentleman who wanted to meet me, on reaching her house I met George, he was so good

looking dressed in a nice grey suit, tall, thin. We talked of music he played beautifully

and sang too. After talking & drinking tea, he told me he had been in England 2 months

had been sent by the head of a big music house in N. Y ____ Mr. Sallmeyer, he had sent

14 of these young men over to sell Zithers, they sold house to house & opened up studios.

The instrument cost f3 or $15 in American money. They gave 20 free lessons with each

zither. George played this wonderful - he asked me if I would like to ________ a studio

on St. Mary, St. Cardiff. He asked me if he night take me home which he did then called

at the house the next day to see how my ____ was (had got lost the night before, had a

terrible time) _____ as my Father was born and raised until he was 17 years old in this

country they immediately became good friends and George too was glad to meet my

mother as she was a very excellent cook and made many American dishes the first day

George came to the house, we had baked beans and doughnuts.”

56

Nellie Appleton Brissell’s original poem

written to her youngest son David when left

home for the first time:

To My Boy

You’ve gone away dear boy of mine, to try life on

your own,

You say you want to spread your wings to say

goodbye to home,

Well son so dear, I wish you well, may all your

dreams come true,

I’ll leave the front door open to receive you when

you’re thru,

I hope you find life as you think, but should the

sun go down

Your feelings blue from life’s hard knocks, and

folks give you a frown,

Just give a thought to me you’ve left; don’t let

pride stand in your way.

Remember, mother and home is waiting with a

welcome night or day,

And when temptations over take you as they in

life always do,

57

Be brave and pass them my boy, and

you’ll come smiling thru.

In your actions just be good and clean,

I know you will and can.

For my sake you’ll be upright, and will

always act the man,

For life is what we make it, and you’ll

find it none to kind,

In thought and deed in every way in

the future you will find,

As day by day you travel in this world,

you’d call and make your own,

But if it gets too hard to battle so just

turn your footsteps home.

Love, Mother

CHILDREN:

JOHN CLIFFORD BRISSELL (Source: Social Security

Death Index, Date of Import: 3 Feb

2005.), b. 07 Apr 1902, Swansea,

Glamorgan West Glamorgan, Wales

(Source: Social Security Death Index,

Date of Import: 3 Feb 2005.); d. 29 Dec

1986, Berkeley, Alameda, California

(Source: Social Security Death Index,

Date of Import 3 Feb 2005.).

Cliff, Nellie & George Brissell-Tonopah

58

NEWS: Reno Evening Gazette Reno, Nevada 1919 September 6. Clifford Brissell, the

youngest soldier in the British army, wired his father, George Brissell from Ogden that he

would be home Sunday morning. The veteran is only sixteen years old and served with

the Third South Wales Borderers.

GEORGE MARSHALL BRISSELL (Source: Social Security Death

Index, Date of Import: 3 Feb 2005.), b. 15 Jan 1904, Tonopah, Nevada

(Source: Social Security Death Index, Date of import: 3 Feb 2005.); d.

14 Oct 1921, Tonopah Nevada (Source: Social Security Death Index,

Date of Import: 3 Feb 2005).

PHILLIP CHARLES JAMES BRISSELL (Source: Social Security Death Index Date

of Import: 3 Feb 2005. ), b. 29 May 1909, Cardiff, Glamorgan

Monmouthsire, Wales (Source: Social Security Death Index, Date of

lmport: 3 Feb 2005.); d. 20 Dec 1962, Confa Costa, California

(Source: Social Security Death Index, Date of Import: 3 Feb 2005.);

m. ADELENA BRISSELL; b. 03 Jun 1898, California; d. 02 Dec 1

976, Alameda, California.

Notes for PHILLP CHARLES JAMES BRISSELL:

1930 Census California, Alameda, Berkeley, Dist 317

Nellie Brissell a. 48 Wd m at 20, Phillip a. 20

Victor a. 18, David a. 13

VICTOR LEWIS BRISSELL (Source: Social Security Death index, b. 23 Feb 1912,

Tonopah, Nevada (Source: Social Security Death Index); d. 07 Dec

1986, Salt Lake City, Utah (Source: Social Security Death Index), m.

MARGARET MARY CANNEGEITER 27 Nov 1935, Salt Lake

City, Salt Lake, Utah; b. 2l Jan 1914, Murray, Salt Lake, Utah d. 06

Jun 1978, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake, Utah.

DAVID APPLETON BRISSELL (Source: Social Security Death Index, Date of Import:

3 Feb 2005.), b. 01 Jul 1916, Tonopah, Nevada (Source: Social

Security Death Index, Date of import: 3 Feb 2005.); d. 08 Feb 1965,

Alameda, California (Source: Social Security Death Index, Date of

Import: 3 Feb 2005.).

Notes for DAVID APPLETON BRISSELL:

1930 Census California, Alameda, Berkeley, Dist 317

Nellie Brissell a. 48 Wd m 20

Phillip a. 20; Victor a. 18; David a. 13

59

1920 Census Nevada, Nye, Tonopah

George Brissell a. 39 Occupation - Photographer

Nellie a. 38

Clifford J. a. 17

George M. a. 15

Phillip a. 10

Victor a. 7

David a. 3

VICTOR L BRISSELL’S PATERNAL GRANDPARENTS

JOHN PHILLIP2 BRISSELL was born l5 Apr 1845 in New York, New York, and died

08 Jun 19l8 in Sacramento, California. He married Alice Sarah

Stevenson (Davis) May 1875 in California, daughter of

UNKNOWN STEVENSON and JERUSHA SIMONS. She was

born Oct 1855 in Rescue, El Dorado, California, and died 16 Jul

1934 in Sacramento, California (Source: Tombstone, Sacramento

City Cemetery. (Listing GenWeb 1849-2000.)

"California, County Marriages, 1850-1952," John P Brissell, 1877

Name: John P Brissell

Event: Marriage

Event date: 20 May 1877

Event place: El Dorado, California, United States

Gender: Male

Age: 31

Estimated birth year: 1846

Spouse: Sarah Alice Stevenson

Spouse's age: 23

Spouse's gender: Female

Spouse's estimated birth year: 1854

Notes for JOHN PHILLP BRISSELL:

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 21, Number 3127, 5 April 1861

List of Letters Remaining in the Post Office at Sacramento for the month of March,

1861… Brissel, Jno P

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 25, Number 3841, 14 July 1863

A new military company, styled the " Baker Guard?," was organized last evening at the

Pavilion. The following persons were elected officers for the ensuing year: First

Lieutenant ; J. Brissel,…This company is composed of young men between the ages of

60

sixteen and twenty years. They design, if practicable, to organize under the State Militia

Law.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 32, Number 4971, 5 March 1867

Election of Officers. — At the semi-annual meeting of Alert Hook and Ladder Company

held last evening the following named officers were elected for the ensuing term: First

Assistant, J. Brissell;

1870 Census California, Sacramento, Sacramento

John Brissell (Bressell) A. 25 Occupation - Policeman

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 40, Number 7001, 21 October 1870

Suit has been (submitted) in the Sixth District Court, by John P. Brissell, a special deputy

sheriff, against Mary McCarty, for damages in the sum of 20 000. On the 2d of last

September, the defendant was arrested by Brissell and officer Rider for disturbing the

peace, and on the following day she published a card in the (paper) concerning the

matter, which the plaintiff alleges was intended to make the public believe he had been

guilty of a felony and conduct unbecoming an officer. It is also alleged that she in

conversation with parties after the arrest, made remarks to the effect that the officers had

taken money from her pockets while she was being conveyed to the station and that such

remarks were made maliciously, and with the intent to make her hearers believe that the

plaintiffs had been guilty of larceny.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 40, Number 7030, 24 November 1870

J. P. Brissell, disturbing the peace — Acquitted.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 40, Number 7089, 1 February 1871

Official Notices: John P. Brissell W Wishes To Be Appointed Special Policemen for the

District bounded by the north side of J and the south side of L streets, from the center of

Front to the center of Third streets,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 41, Number 7180, 18 May 1871

New Method of Ejecting a Tenant. — Jerome Madden owns a tenement corner of Second

and N streets. A man got possession of it recently as a tenant, and could not be made to

pay rent. To eject such tenants according to statutory method occupies much time, so J. P.

Brissell was employed to persuade the family to move quietly. He proceeded to the

premises yesterday morning and removed the doors and windows, leaving the occupants

in a very bad draft, which will probably convince them that the building is uncomfortable

at least.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 43, Number 6641, 16 July 1872

Capital Boat Club. — The initial meeting of the members of the Capital Boat Club for the

purpose of permanent organization was held last evening in the club rooms of W. Barnes,

on Second Street, over the office of Wells, Fargo and Company. … Barge Committee, E.

F. Smith, J. P. Brissell,

61

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 43, Number 6694, 16 September 1872

Police Court Items. — The session of the Police Court, Saturday, lasted three hours, and

was mostly occupied in the examination of the engaged in the recent street car difficulty

— Andrew Black, E. L. Dole and John Brissell. The evidence introduced was of a most

conflicting nature. It indicated that Brissell took no part in the fight, and the court ordered

that he be discharged.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 1, Number 19, 15 March 1875

J. P. Brissell recovered £85 from Michael Murphy for services performed in hunting up a

witness in the case of Murphy vs. Dully. Brissell sued for 1200.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 2, Number 130, 24 July 1876

Republican Club. The second meeting of the Central Hayes and Wheeler Club was held

at Pioneer Hall on Saturday evening to perfect the organization of the club … John

Brissel, Sergeants-at-Arms.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 3, Number 14, 9 March 1877

Deputy Collectors, Clerks, etc.: …J. P. Brissell, United States Gauger. Sacramento city;...

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 3, Number 79, 25 May 1877

MARRIED. El Dorado, May 20— John P. Brissell to Sarah Alice Stevenson.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 3, Number 237, 20 November 1877

Police Court. … John Brissell, convicted of having been drunk, was discharged.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 8, Number 129, 8 August 1879

List of Letters at the Post Office at Sacramento on Thursday, August 7, 1979 : … John

Brissell,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 12, Number 56, 26 October 1880

…J. P. Brissell battery, by officer Jackson;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 12, Number 74, 16 November 1880

E. Rogers drunk, by special officers Burke and Brissell;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 15, Number 35, 3 April 1882

The Story of a Young Man Under Arrest and In Serious Trouble.

Readers of the Record-Union will remember an account of the arrest at Elmira

last week by J. H. Mahoney, postal detective, and officer Brissell, of this city, of two men

charged with robbing the United States mail. Both men were taken on the arrival at

Elmira of the train that is run on the Vaca Valley and Clear Lake Railroad. One was the

conductor, A. H. Winsley, the other L. E. W. Parker, Lis brakeman. For some months the

postal authorities have been aware that pilfering from the mail bags on that line has been

going on. All sorts of decoys were set, but it seemed impossible to fix guilt where

suspicion pointed. The two officers named were at last put upon the track, Mr. Brissell

62

being called in to render the postal official the aid he needed. Marked coins were sent

through the mails in registered letters by Dr. Fifield, the Postmaster at Madison, and the

mail pouches were overhauled at Elmira to find if the bait had been taken.

Several of the decoy letters failed, but finally one was sent by the doctor which

read as follows: Madison, Cal., March 27, 1882. H. M. Green & Co.: Enclosed please

find $ duo you for the books, which were received. Yours respectfully, M. L. Fifield.

This was addressed to Green Co., 405 Montgomery street, Francisco, and post Madison,

Cal., It bore one 1 cent and one 2 cents United States postage stamps. Enclosed was a 55

gold piece and three silver dollars. Each of these was marked so as to be identified, so as

not to attract attention. On March 27th, on the arrival of the train from Madison at

Elmira, the bags on being received, were found locked as usual, but on being opened the

decoy package was missing.

Inspector Mahoney then boarded the train, and abruptly asked Parker, the

brakeman, who robbed the mails on that line. Parker was surprised, confused, and replied,

"Nobody that he knew of." Mahoney then arrested and searched him, and found in his

pockets the registered letter package broken open and the marked coin. In the meanwhile

Brissell went for the conductor, Winsley, who had left the train and gone to his house,

near the depot. He arrested him, but the prisoner showed very little emotion or surprise.

Both men were brought immediately to Sacramento, but were kept separate. Parker was

deeply moved, and admitted that he had received the package from Winsley, and that he

knew the latter had been tampering with the mail bags. It was the intention to have the

prisoners examined before United States Commissioner Cadwalader, of this city, but the

United States District Attorney directed that they be brought to San Francisco, where they

were taken by Mahoney and a deputy United States Marshal.

The Postal Inspector was prompt in the matter, and proved himself efficient, and

officer Brissell is credited with rendering him invaluable aid — indeed, the assistance of

the latter was indispensable.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 17, Number 145, 10 August 1883

The Following Described Property remaining uncalled for at the State House Hotel will

be sold at public auction in front of the hotel on Monday, September 21th, at 10 o'clock

… J. P. Brissell;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 52, Number 60, 3 November 1884

U.S. Deputy Marshals. — Commissions for the following named United States Deputy

Marshals for this city have been received … John P. Brissell,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 52, Number 109, 31 December 1884

The following officers have been elected for the ensuing term by Friendship Council,

Sentry, J. P. Brissell;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 53, Number 59, 1 May 1885

The Street Commissioner has had for some days past a large force of laborers at work

smoothing and rounding up the streets in the southeastern portion of the city, under the

superintendence of John P. Brissell. The work is being done in the most thorough

manner, and property owners thereabouts are especially pleased with it.

63

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 53, Number 140, 4 August 1885

Trustee Nielson moved that J. P. Brissell be named City Tapper, pro tem, or until Mr.

Watts returns;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 54, Number 6, 28 August 1885

Street Commissioner Nielsen yesterday celebrated his 57th

birthday. His many friends, as

is their annual custom, assembled at his resilience last evening … J. P. Brissell and wife,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 59, Number 68, 12 May 1888

Names Entered Upon the New Great Register. The following additional names have been

entered upon the new Great Register under the letters A and B, of the city list:… 321 N

Brissell, J. P.,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 59, Number 144, 9 August 1888

The residence of John Brissell, on G street, between Twelfth and Thirteenth, was robbed

...$174. (Friendship Council funds). Taken (along with many other items).

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 60, Number 65, 5 November 1888

United States Supervisors of Election. E. I. Robinson, United States Commissioner, has

appointed the following… Fourth Precinct— Richmond Davis, J. P. Brissell.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 61, Number 69, 14 May 1889

(John P. Brissell appointed Water Inspector. Hired to catch residents and businesses who

waste water. Can take them to jail. His salary $75/mo.)

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 61, Number 107, 28 June 1889

Elected a Trustee of Friendship Council — John P. Brissell,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 62, Number 116, 4 January 1890

The Knights of Pythias. … Following is a list of the officers installed from the various

lodges: …J. P. Brissell. Sacramento Lodge, No. 11

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 79, Number 56, 29 April 1890

Mayor Comstock said he would like to move that the services of J. P. Brissell, the Water

Inspector, be dispensed with. Laid over.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 79, Number 62, 6 May 1890

(Mayor wanted Water Inspector Brissell terminated, but other 2 members voted for him

so Brissell kept his salary)

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 80, Number 20, 13 September 1890

I see in this morning's Record-Union a small article signed by Water Inspector J. P.

Brissell, in which he states that the party living on L Street has no ground for making a

complaint as to the vast amount of water running into the street from No. 414 L Street,…

64

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 80, Number 40, 7 October 1890

The Mayor remarked that Inspector Brissell would make a good water collector and

could at the same time act as Inspector.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 80, Number 43, 10 October 1890

A Sprinkling-wagon Driver's Neglect Causes His Arrest. Yesterday a man named Rogers,

employed as the driver of a sprinkling water truck, left his vehicle under a water-spout,

with the water running, while he went into a down-town alley. He staid long enough to do

considerable courting—if that was his mission—and in the meantime his wagon filled up

and the water overflowed upon the street, creating quite a pond. A citizen called Captain

Lee's attention to the waste of water, and the Captain drove off and notified Water

Inspector Brissell, who arrived just in time to meet Mr. Rogers returning from his

vacation. He arrested him on a charge of violating the water ordinance.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 81, Number 76, 21 May 1891

J. P. Brissel claims to have produced the best ripe currants of the season.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 82, Number 23, 17 September 1891

Henry Kohne, a Fourth-street saloonkeeper, came tearing into Justice of the Peace

Henry's courtroom yesterday, and in an excited manner demanded to know why he was

being assessed twice for the costs in the suit which James G. Davis brought against him.

Judge Henry said the costs had not even been paid once much less twice. "Yes," said

Kohne, "the constable was down to my place and collected £2 50." Judge. Henry sent for

Constable Brissel and the latter promptly denied that |he had collected any costs. Kohne

insisted that Brissel had called at the saloon while his (Kohne's) son was presiding at the

bar and collected £2.50. Is your son at the saloon now?" asked the Constable. "Yes."

"Well, come along and we will go down there. "If he says I took any money from him he

lies, and I'll punch his nose for him. Mr. Kohne began to feel a little anxious for the

safety of his offspring, but nevertheless willingly accompanied the officer. Arriving at the

Saloon young Kohne was in. He promptly stated that the officer was not the man who

had collected the money.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 82, Number 78, 20 November 1891

Constable Brissel Makes Quite an Extensive Haul. Several weeks ago a Constable from

Reno, Nev., arrived in this city in search of the burglars who broke into several houses in

that town. Among the houses robbed was one occupied by Mrs. Smith, sister-in-law of

Constable Brissel of this city. Mr. Brissel naturally took an interest in the case, and after

the burglars were landed in jail by the police the Constable exerted himself to recover the

stolen property. For a week he has been making the rounds of the second-hand stores, but

did not meet with success until yesterday, when he made quite a haul. He recovered

several dresses, a jacket, and a silver butter-dish belonging to his sister-in-law. Beside

these articles there were two table covers and a boy's jacket, the owner of which is not

known. The articles were stolen in Reno by a colored boy named White —who has been

held to answer for robbing Pedlar's place of business, at Eighth and X Streets, in this

city—and a white man named Summerfield, who was arrested at Reno, and has been

sentenced to four years imprisonment.

65

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 82, Number 117, 6 January 1892

J. P. Brissel. who has been confined to his home by illness for a fortnight, was able to be

out for a while yesterday.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 84, Number 36, 1 October 1892

Brissel’s Experience. "With a Big Dog and Shoots It. Constable Brissel was on his way

home last evening, and was passing Eighth and II streets, when a large dog jumped at him

in a ferocious manner. The officer managed to get out of the way, but the dog went after

him again, even more ferociously. Brissel then became alarmed and, drawing his

revolver, shot the brute. There was quite a hubbub in the neighborhood when the shot

was heard, and all sorts of rumors of murder, suicide and the like were soon afoot. The

Constable says he is sorry he shot the animal, but he had been bitten by a dog once before

and did not care to go through the experience again.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 85, Number 31, 29 March 1893

A man named Buck gained considerable applause yesterday for the manner in which he

stopped Constable Brissel's runaway horse.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 85, Number 90, 6 June 1893

Constable Brissel Fractures His Right Ankle Bones. A painful accident happened to

Constable John P. Brissel yesterday which will prevent him from doing much walking for

several months. He was out on the Lower Stockton Road, and had occasion to leave his

buggy. In leaping to the ground his right foot turned, throwing the ankle out!

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 86, Number 137, 29 January 1894

Chicken-Stealers at Work. The premises of Constable John P. Brissel were visited by a

chicken-thief between 2 and 3 o'clock yesterday morning, who got away with about a

dozen fowls. Brissel heard the noise and ran out without dressing himself, and therefore

could not pursue the thief.

San Francisco Call, Volume 76, Number 80, 19 August 1894

Sacramento, Ang. 18. The "regular" wing of the local Democracy held its county

convention here to-day. The following ticket was nominated: …Constables, Alfred

Spiuks and J. P. Brissell;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 89, Number 1, 22 February 1895

THE FURY OF A WOMEN SCORNED.

There is Nothing in Hades That Equals it. Mrs. J. P. Brissel, in a Whirl of Jealousy,

Shoots and "Wounds Mrs. Lizzie Moore. Quite a sensational shooting affray took place

yesterday morning about 7 o'clock in the Mansion House on Seventh Street, near I. There

was not only a woman in it, but two of them, although but one was armed. The person

who did the shooting was the wife of Constable John P. Brissel, and she planted a bullet

in the fleshy part of the thigh of Mrs. Lizzie Moore, the divorced wife of Captain Bemish,

who some years ago was engaged in steam boating between this city and Red Bluff. Mrs.

Moore, a boarder at the Mansion House, has been suspected by Mrs. Brissel of having

66

held unwarrantable relations with the latter's husband, and the shooting was the result of

an early morning call upon her by Brissel. He had left his home, a short distance away,

with the avowed intention of going into the country on business.

THE WIFE SUSPICIOUS. It appears, however, that Mrs, Brissel suspected he was going

to call on Mrs. Moore, so she went to the latter's boarding-house in advance. Sure

enough, Brissel did call there—though he says it was for only a consultation with Mrs.

Moore on a business matter —and he had no sooner reached the head of the stairs than

his wife set upon him. They had a wrangle then and there, but both left the House. Mrs.

Brissel, however, now quite beside herself with jealousy then returned to the

boardinghouse and calling at Mrs. Moore's room,

FIRED A SHOT AT HER. The report of the pistol attracted the attention of the

proprietor, who ran to the spot, seized the enraged woman, disarmed and ejected her from

the house. It was found that the object of her wrath had been shot in the right thigh, but

that the wound, while serious, was not necessarily dangerous.

ATTACKED HER HUSBAND. After the shooting Mrs. Brissel went to her home, where

she found her husband. They met on the stairway leading to the basement, and she

attacked him. He tried to defend himself, but was considerably bruised and had one of his

shoulders dislocated. Subsequently a story was circulated to the effect that Brissel

attempted to kill himself, but this he denied. Mrs. Brissel was not arrested, as it is said her

victim will not swear to a complaint against her.

WHAT MRS. BRISSELL SAYS. Mrs. Brissel made a statement to a reporter, in which

she said Mrs. Moore had been running after her husband for several years; that she had

intercepted letters from her to him; that she had warned her to cease her attentions to

Brissel, and that the latter had promised several times to have nothing to do with Mrs.

Moore. She did not manifest the slightest regret at what she had done, and did not deny

that it had been her intention to kill the woman.

MR. BRISSEL’S STATEMENT. To a Record-Union reporter Brissel said his wife had

been insanely jealous of him. "About two years ago," he said, "a messenger boy came to

my house while I was eating sapper, with a message from the inmate of a house of shady

reputation, who wanted to see me on important business connected with my office. My

wife opened the message and asked, who is this woman?" I told her who it was, and she

wanted to know if I was going to see the woman. I replied that I certainly would. "When I

called on the woman she gave me a bill to collect, and I collected it. When I returned

home my wife asked me if I had been to the woman's house. I told her I had, and I gave

my wife half the fee that I received for collecting the bill. "Every time a woman called at

my office, if my wife would be there, she would ask what was wanted. On one occasion a

lady called at the office to see me, and my wife said, “Well, I am Mr. Brissel’s wife; you

can tell me what you want.”

"Mrs. Moore had brought a suit against a man for nurse hire, and I served the

papers in the case for her. That was about a year ago. The case was called in the City

Justice's court on Tuesday afternoon, and was continued on account of the inability of the

defendant, who was sick, to be present. Mrs. Moore called at my office Tuesday

afternoon to have me serve a subpoena in the ease. I was not in, and my deputy

performed that duty.

"This morning I told my wife I had to go to Galt to serve an execution and that I

would leave here at 7 0'clock. I was to have gone to Galt in Charles Heisen's wagon,

67

which I was to get at Seventh and I Streets, but before the wagon was ready I stepped into

the Mansion House, which is close by, to speak to Mrs. Moore in reference to her suit. I

had no sooner knocked at the door than I was struck over the head and face by someone,

who at the time I did not know. As soon as I saw it was my wife, I cried. “For God's sake,

what is the matter with you." "She replied. 'There! I have caught you at last!' I said to her,

'for Heaven's sake, don't make a scene in this house! Let's go home, and there I will

explain all about it.”

“We both then left the Mansion House and I supposed she was going directly

home. I soon went home to see if she was there, but she was not, and then I went into the

basement to see if she was there. She was not there then, but as I was going down the

stairs she tiptoed down after me. As I started to go upstairs she caught hold of me around

my neck. I’m trying to save myself from falling down stairs, my arm caught in the pickets

of the balustrade, that is how I injured my arm. "She then began beating me. I said to her,

'For God's sake stop! You are breaking my arm!' She replied, “Yes, I have taken a shot at

that woman !' "I told her she had shot an innocent woman. My wife kept hitting me in the

face with a cup. I attempted to get hold of her to make her desist, when my sixteen-year-

old boy pulled me back, and she kept up her onslaught. Thinking that by scaring her I

could make her stop, I asked: 'Must I have to kill you to make you stop?' I then pulled my

revolver, but with no other object in view than to scare her, which I did. That had the

desired effect.

We both then left the house, and I went to a doctor's office to have my injuries

treated. "I was not at the Mansion House when my wife shot Mrs. Moore. She must have

gone straight to the Mansion House after she left our house. I was informed, afterward by

the proprietor of the Mansion House that my wife knocked at the door of Mrs. Moore's

room and as soon as Mrs. Moore opened the door my wife caught her by the throat and

then shot her. "The proprietor of the Mansion House took the pistol from my wife and if

he had not I think she would have shot me!

"As to the report of my attempting to commit suicide, there is not a particle of

truth in the assertion. I was lying on a lounge in the doctor's office when someone

remarked that I was perspiring very freely. I reached in my back pocket for my

handkerchief, when the person who addressed me saw my pistol there and asked me to

give it to him, which I did. I am not the kind of a man to kill myself.

"My wife objected to me staying out late at night, and I told her that, in order to

satisfy her I would resign my office.

Mrs. Moore and I became acquainted only about a year ago through a business I

transaction, and it is not true that she has been following me for four years. "My wife's

mother wrote me a letter one day, in which she stated that she thought my wife was going

crazy. I really think she has been insane for some time."

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 90, Number 97, 12 December 1895

An attachment was ordered issued by the court for derelict persons who had been

summoned as Jurors, and S.G. Hendricks, J. P. Brissell and "W. J. Hogan were brought

into court. Mr. Hendricks gave as an excuse for nonappearance that he had been ill,

which j statement satisfied the court, and Mr. I. Hendricks was excused. But Mr. I Hogan

and Mr. Brissell did not fare so well, as the court after hearing their excuses promptly

fined each of them $2.50,…”

68

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 92, Number 72, 1 November 1896

Fifth Precinct—Bounded north by the city limits, east by the center of Sixth street, south

by the center of X street, west by the center of Fifth street. Tally Clerks, John Brissel,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 93, Number 55, 17 April 1897

For Final Discharge. J. P. Brissel yesterday, by his attorney, J. H. Liggett, filed in the

Superior Court his petition for final discharge from his debts and liabilities.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 94, Number 98, 27 November 1897

The case of John P. Brissel against the Southern Pacific Company, which was to have

been tried by Judge Hart yesterday, was continued till the 30th.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 95, Number 92, 24 May 1898

A Jury Was Secured Without Much Trouble. The case of James Shuck, charged with

criminal assault on a 15-year-old girl named Melissa Brenson … A jury was secured in

the morning, consisting of … J. P. Brissell,

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 96, Number 81, 10 November 1898

Justice of Peace, Sacramento Township— W. A. Henry. Fus 3,463 Eugene E. Welty, Rep

2,449 Constables. Sacramento Township Henry Alter. Rep 2,793 John P. Brissell.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 96, Number 135, 4 January 1899

Some of the Changes in the County Offices. …Constable Clark has appointed John P.

Brissell as Deputy,..

Los Angeles Herald, 15 June 1900

The democratic state convention … convention officers … John P. Brissel, assistant

sergeant-at-arms.

San Francisco Call, Volume 97, Number 176, 23 May 1905

Main Office- Tonopah, Nevada, president George S. Nixon; vice president T Kendall;

secretary J.P. Brissell, Tonopah; Nevada; capital stock 11.000.000 shares of $1. each;

400,000 shares in treasury.

San Francisco Call, Volume 101, Number 97, 7 March 1907

TON'OPAH. March 6. — Anna Richter. the girl who swore to an affidavit charging

Judge Brissell of this city with seduction, has signed another affidavit, now in the hands

of the District Attorney, stating that .she did not know what the first paper contained in

full. In an interview today the girl said that the Industrial Workers of the World leaders

— Stevens, Kiester and Walsh — asked her to sign the paper, as they wanted to use it as

a club to force Brissell to refrain from prosecuting them on various assault charges. The

girl admits that her character has not been of the best.

1910 Census Nevada, Nye, Tonopah 2-Pct, Dist 58 John P. Brissell a. 65 ml 35yrs;

Alice S. a. 55 ml 35 yrs; (l,1) child George L. a. 3l ml 29 yrs

69

NEWS: Obit June 8, 1913

JOHN BRISSELL DIES

John Brissell, an old time

resident and former

constable of Sacramento,

died here today at the age

of 73 years. In 1906,

Brissell was elected Justice

of the Peace in Tonopah,

Nevada. At that time, there

was considerable I.W.W.

trouble and Brissell earned

a reputation for the brand

of punishment he meted

out. Until shortly before his

death, Brissell was

employed at The State

Motor Vehicle Department.

He leaves a widow and

family in Nevada.

BRISSELL - In this city,

June 8, 1913, John Phillip Brissell, husband of Alice S. Brissell, father of George L.

Brissell of Nevada, son of the late Mrs. Maria Sucher, brother of the late William T. and

Annie Brissell, the late Mrs. J. H. Arnold, a native of New York City, aged 73 years, I

month and 22 days. Friends are welcome at the residence of Arthur Fenton, 1337 I Street.

Internment, East Lawn Cemetery.

Notes for Alice Sarah Stevenson (Davis):

1860 Census California, El Dorado, El Dorado

L. M. Davis a.33 Occupation - Farmer

Jerusha a. 27

Alice a. 5

Lewis a. 1

1870 Census California, El Dorado, Mud Springs, Img 158

+ 159

Lewis M. Davis a.43 Occupation - Farmer

Jerusha F. Davis a. 37

Alice S. a. 15

Lewis M. a. 11

Laura M. a.3

Silas Simons a. 69 F-in-law

Orrill a.64 M-in-law

70

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 3, Number 79, 25 May 1877

MARRIED. El Dorado, May 20— John P. Brissell to Sarah Alice Stevenson.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 62, Number 101, 17 December 1889

The Pythian Sisters. California Temple, No. 1, Pythian Sisters, was instituted last night at

the Knights of Pythias Castle by Mrs. C. L. C. Lawrence, of San Diego, Supreme

Mistress of Records and Correspondence and Supreme Deputy of the Pacific Coast. The

following officers were installed: …Sister Manager, Mrs. Alice Brissell;

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 81, Number 64, 7 May 1891

Mrs. J. P. Brissel is on a visit to relatives in El Dorado.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 81, Number 133, 27 July 1891

El Dorado Pioneer Dead. L. M. Davis, a pioneer resident and fruit-grower of El Dorado,

died yesterday in that place after a brief illness. Mr. Davis was well known and generally

beloved. He was a native of Maine and 64 years of age. He leaves a wife and four

children, all grown. One of his daughters is the wife of Constable John P. Brissel of this

city, and another is Mrs. Ernest Smith, whose husband is Wells, Fargo & Co agent

between Reno and Ogden. The funeral takes place this afternoon at El Dorado.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 82, Number 78, 20 November 1891

Constable Brissel Makes Quite an Extensive Haul. Several weeks ago a Constable from

Reno, Nev., arrived in this city in search of the burglars who broke into several houses in

that town. Among the houses robbed was one occupied by Mrs. Smith, sister-in-law of

Constable Brissel of this city. Mr. Brissel naturally took an interest in the case, and after

the burglars were landed in jail by the police the Constable exerted himself to recover the

stolen property. For a week he has been making the rounds of the second-hand stores, but

did not meet with success until yesterday, when he made quite a haul. He recovered

several dresses, a jacket, and a silver butter-dish belonging to his sister-in-law. Beside

these articles there were two table covers and a boy's jacket, the owner of which is not

known. The articles were stolen in Reno by a colored boy named White —who has been

held to answer for robbing Pedlar's place of business, at Eighth and X Streets, in this

city—and a white man named Summerfield, who was arrested at Reno, and has been

sentenced to four years imprisonment.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 84, Number 65, 4 November 1892

Mrs. John P. Brissel and son have returned from Pacific Grove.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 85, Number 92, 8 June 1893

Hen Boost Robbed. Mrs. Brissel, wife of Constable John Brissel, who is at present

confined to the County Hospital with a fractured ankle, reported to the Chief of Police

yesterday that during the early hours of night her chicken-roost was raided and a dozen

fowls carried off.

71

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 85, Number 104, 22 June 1893

The wedding of Luther Weber and Miss Ella H. Clark … The following invited guests

were present: Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Brissel.

San Francisco Call, Number 1, 1 December 1894

…testimony of most of the witnesses will tend to strengthen the theory that Hatch was he

man who sat in the carriage while it stood at the caboose… president of the woman's

auxiliary, and Mrs. Brissel, who was also a member, testified that they saw Hatch on the

street near the cookhouse about noon on the 11th of July,

NEWS: Woodland Daily Democrat (Woodland, CA) 1894, November 30

More Levity In The Courtroom Than is Usual When a Man is on Trial for His Life.

Mrs. Alice Brissel(l), a resident of Sacramento, was the next witness. Her husband is a

constable. Witness only has a casual acquaintance with the defendant and his parents. She

was in the cook-room of the Women's Auxiliary on the 1lth of July. The witness

identified the defendant as a man she saw about noon on that day. About an hour after she

saw the train go out. During the cross-examination the witness said she had not seen the

defendant since July the 1lth until today. She accompanied Mrs. Dillman to the wicket in

the door of the county jail and spoke to Hatch. ...

San Francisco Call, Volume 77, Number 99, 19 March 1895

Gone From Sacramento. Constable Brissell Leaves a Number of Creditors in the Lurch.

Compelled to Resign on Account of His Neglect of His Family.

SACRAMENTO, March 18. — Constable John P. Brissell, who recently figured in a

shooting affray at the Mansion House in this city, has been forced to resign his office, and

has skipped, leaving a long list of creditors who are extremely anxious to ascertain his

whereabouts.

Since the morning when Mrs. Brissell followed her husband to the apartments of

Mrs. Moore and shot the latter, Constable Brissell's actions toward her have been so open

that public sympathy for the injured wife rose to such an extent that the Supervisors

found it necessary to demand the constable's resignation. Brissell endeavored to face the

situation by refusing to resign, but a long communication from leading citizens of the city

and county demanding his resignation left no alternative.

Before submitting his resignation Brissell succeeded in borrowing considerable

money and sold the outstanding fees of his office, so it is claimed, to J. Paris Jr. for $400.

Before the Board of Supervisors acted upon his resignation Brissell left the city during

the night, as anxious creditors were pressing him and threatening his arrest.

Since the unfortunate affray in which Constable Brissell was the prime factor, it

has developed that for months past Brissell has neglected his family, leaving them

absolutely destitute. Since the shooting he has provided for Mrs. Moore in a luxurious

manner, while his own family was without money or food, dependent upon the charity of

friends. Brissell deprived his wife of her jewelry, which he bestowed upon Mrs. Moore.

His latest act came to light to-day. It appears Brissell procured a horse, buggy and

harness, which he pawned at "Uncle Ike's" for $15, the owner of which came to Mrs.

Brissell today looking for his property. Brissell has boasted of his innocence, yet Mrs.

72

Brissell has absolute proof of his duplicity, as is shown in the several letters received by

him from Mrs. Moore which have been found.

It is known that Brissell received the letters through a third person, who is a

county official. Prior to meeting Mrs. Moore, Brissell owned a pretty home, but this he

has squandered. By his aid, Mrs. Moore secured a position in the State bindery, and she

has frequently boasted of her influence with prominent State officials.

It is said that Brissell has been seen in San Francisco, where he has been spending

money lavishly and has secured passage to Alaska for himself and another person—

presumably Mrs. Moore, as she has signified her intention of leaving Sacramento. The

knowledge of this has come to his creditors, who will endeavor to prevent his departure

until he has satisfied their claims and provided for his family.

1910 Census Nevada, Nye, Tonopah 2-Pct, Dist 58

John P. Brissell a. 65 m1 35yrs

Alice S. a. 55 ml 35 yrs (l,1)child

George L. a.3l ml 9 yrs

1920 Census California, Sacramento, Sacramento, Dist 89

Alice Brissell (Brassell) a. 54 Wd Occupation - Lodging House

**Richard Penney (Penny) a. 28 Occupation - Railroad Machinist "Boarder"

** This is Silas R. Penney's son, Grandson to Alice's aunt, Alice Maria Simons

1930 Census California, Sacramento, Sacramento, Dist 35

Alice Brissell (Busell) a.73 Wd m at 2l

Tombstone of Alice Stevenson Brissell - Age - 85y7m17d; Death July 16,1934; Burial

July 19 1934.

73

Child of John [P] BRISSELL and Alice Sarah Stevenson Davis:

GEORGE LEVANT BRISSELL, b. 23 Nov 1878, Sacramento, California; d. 1l Feb

1924, Sacramento, California.

FAMILY of UNKNOWN & ANNA MARIA BRISSELL

Brissell was born in Germany. He married Anna Maria Brissell (Sucher was 2

nd

marriage name). She was born Oct l8l8 in Bavaria, and died 08 Sep 1900 in Sacramento,

California.

Notes for ANNA MARIA BRISSELL SUCHER:

1900 Census California, Sacramento, Sacramento Ward 5, Dist 85

Joseph Arnold a. 60 Aug 1839 m. 3l yrs b. Ger Occupation - Milling

Catherine a.50 Dec 1849 m. 31yrs. b. NY Fb. Ger Mb Ger

Arthur a. 30 May 1870 Occupation - Actor

Julian a.24 July 1876 Student

Gertrude a. 22 Nov 1877

Clara a. 20 May 1880

Henry a. 18 Apr 1882 Occupation - Miller

Francis a. 15 Dec 1884

Harrison a.12 Feb 1888

Morton a. 12 Feb 1888

Mrs. A. M. Sucher a. 81 Oct l8l8 M-in-L b. Ger Fb. Ger Mb. Ger Imm-1823 #yrs in U.S.

77

Harriett Marten note: “On the 1900 Census, Marie Sucher, mother to John Philip,

William T. and Catherine is living with her daughter Catherine and husband Joseph

Arnold.”

Anna Maria Sucher, OBIT, Died 9/8/1900, Sacramento, California.

SUCHER

In this city, September 8, 1900, Anna Maria Sucher, mother of Mrs. J. H. (Catherine)

Arnold, Anna M., John and William Brissell, a native of Bavaria, Germany, aged 81

years, 11 months and 10 days. Funeral services strictly private. (Sacramento Bee

9/8/1900 ancestry.com/mbexec/message/anlsurnames.)

NOTE: (John Phillip’s obituary mentions a brother William T. and sister Annie -

Mrs. J. H. Arnold)

BRISSELL - In this city, June 8, 1913, John Phillip Brissell, husband of Alice S.

Brissell, father of George L. Brissell of Nevada son of the late Mrs. Maria Sucher,

brother of the late William T. and Annie Brissell, the late Mrs. J. H. Arnold, a native of

New York City, aged 73 years, 1 month and 22 days. Friends are welcome at the

residence of Arthur Fenton, 1337 I Street. Internment, East Lawn Cemetery.

74

Note from Harriet Marten: There are actually 4 children born to Brissell & Anna

Maria Brissell

William T. Brissell b. Feb. 1839

Anna Maria Brissell b. 1844

John Philip Brissell b. 15 Apr 1845

Catherine Brissell b. 19 Dec 1850

1850 Census New York (New York, New York Ward 17

(Incorrectly recorded on original record as Bissell)

Ann M. Brissell a. 31 b. Germany

William T. (S) a. 9 b. NY

Ann M. a. 6 b. NY (Blind)

John P, a. 4 b. NY

Catharine a. 1 b. NY

Catharine Troutman a. 25 b. Germany

John J, Troutman a. 55 b. Germany

I also found this census entry leading me to believe that the older John Brissell died

before 1860:

1860 Census California, Sacramento, Sacramento Ward 4

Joseph Sucher a.35 b. 1825 Baden, Germany Occu - Laborer

Anna M. a. 40 b. 1820 Bavaria, Germany

Anna M. a. 15 b. 1845 NY

John P. (B) a.14 b. 1846 NY

Cath a. 10 b. 1850 NY

CHILDREN of Brissell and Anna Maria (Sucher) are:

#1. WILLIAM TILDEN BRISSELL, b. Feb 1839, New York (Source: 1900 census,

Birth date listed as Feb. 1839.); d. 2l Dec 1902, Sacramento, California.

Notes for William Tilden Brissell:

1870 Census California Sacramento, Sacramento

W. T (F) Brissell a. 29 b. NY Occupation - Butcher

NOTE: His second initial has been transcribed as "F" but the actual writing on census is

correct.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 1, Number 82, 28 May 1875

Political Movements. — The Republican primary election, which takes place tomorrow,

is attracting a great deal of attention, … In the First and Fourth Wards caucuses were held

last evening. … Following is the ticket nominated for the First Ward: William Brissell.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 2, Number 13, 7 March 1876

The New Officers. — The new county officers entered upon their duties yesterday, and

designated their deputies, as follows: Wm. Brissell and ..Geo. H. Newbert as jailors.

75

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 8, Number 139, 20 August 1879

Wanted Protection. — On Monday night a woman named Annie Nelson went to the

station house and informed the officers that she was pursued by a colored man named

Stephen Jones, and wanted him arrested. Search was made for him, and he could not be

found. Yesterday morning she went to the City Hotel saloon, and demanded protection.

Officer Brissell went with her to her house on L street, between Third and Fourth, met

Jones and took him into custody.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 11, Number 44, 12 April 1880

William T Brissell has been appointed Deputy Sheriff, and will heretofore be employed

at the depot by the Central Pacific Railroad Company.

1880 Census California, Sacramento, Sacramento City, Dist 8l

William Brissell (Bresell) a.39 Occupation - Police Officer

NOTE: He is not the head of household and may not have given the census info, his birth

place is shown as Ohio. His name has been mistranscribed as "Bresell" the actual writing

is on census is correct.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 17, Number 31, 29 March 1883

Frank Clifford, who has been sentenced to State Prison for three years for the burglary of

the freight depot in Truckee. The arrest and conviction was due to the efforts of detective

Brissell of this city.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 18, Number 90, 5 December 1883

About half-past '_ o'clock last evening those who reside in the neighborhood of Fifth and

X streets were startled by the report of a pistol. Immediately afterward Mrs. Churchill

rushed from the Gem saloon, screaming murder, and commenced blowing a police

whistle. Railroad Detective Wm. Brissell, who happened to be in the vicinity, rushed into

the saloon and found Kibert Williams standing in the center of the room with a pistol in

his hand. No one else was in the saloon, the proprietor, Robert Churchill — whom he had

taken a shot at — having escaped by the back door. The would-be murderer was placed

under arrest, disarmed and taken to the city prison. He had a four-shooter Sharp's pistol,

with one cartridge exploded. It appears that the men are brothers-in-law, Mrs. Churchill

being a sister to Williams. Brotherly love does not appear to exist to a great degree

between the men, and when Churchill refused to "set up the drinks," as requested by

Williams, the latter took umbrage, and tried to kill the former.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 59, Number 27, 23 March 1888

(Wm Brissell still in Sacramento)

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 81, Number 44, 14 April 1891

On Sunday evening special officer Wm. Brissell discovered, near the railroad depot, a lad

of 14 years of age, named ___ Hopkins, in a helpless condition of intoxication.

76

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 83, Number 92, 7 June 1892

A petition was received from residents Of Sutter Township, asking that W. T. Brissell be

appointed Poundmaster of that township.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 91, Number 82, 19 May 1896

Arrested for Hide Stealing. John Murphy and John Conley were arrested yesterday

afternoon by Officers William Brissell and Ed Balsz for stealing a hide from the

warehouse of Knights & Co.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 96, Number 157, 26 January 1899

Firemen. They Held Their Annual Election Yesterday Afternoon.

The Exempt Firemen's Association held its annual election yesterday afternoon and

elected the following officers: .. for Second Vice-President, W. T. Brissell;… The

association was organized March 10, 1851, with 345 members, and reorganized July 12,

1872, under an Act of the Legislature. Since that time it has buried 150 members and

there are now 78 living. It has paid out $70,035.18 for charity.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 98, Number 31, 21 September 1899

Constable William Brissell testified that the prisoner confessed to taking the bags. His

partner told him the saddle-bags were his and he went and got them. He told witness that

he could not arrest a soldier, but witness thought he could.

San Francisco Call, Volume 87, Number 182, 29 November 1900

Oakland, Nov. 28.— Licenses to marry were Issued, to … William Tilden Brissel, 60,-

Sacramento, and Mina Belle Marshall, 36, - Oakland [CA]..

1900 Census California Sacramento, Sacramento Ward l, Dist 76

William Brissell (Bisell) a. 6l b. NY Feb 1839 Occupation - Police Officer

#2. JOHN PHILLIP BRISSELL was born 15 Apr 1845, New York, New York; d. 08

Jun 1918, Sacramento, California. (See above)

John Phillip’s Obituary:

BRISSELL - In this city, June 8, 1913, John Phillip Brissell, husband of Alice S. Brissell,

father of George L. Brissell of Nevada, son of the late Mrs. Maria Sucher, brother of the

late William T. and Annie Brissell, the late Mrs. [Catherine] J. H. Arnold, a native of

New York City, aged 73 years, 1 month and 22 days. Friends are welcome at the

residence of Arthur Fenton, 1337 I Street. Internment, East Lawn Cemetery.)

#3. CATHERINE BRISSELL was born 19 Dec 1850 in New York, and died 20 Nov

1903 in California. She married Joseph H. Arnold 1869 in California. He was born Aug

1839 in Germany, and died before 1920 in California.

77

Harriett Martens note: “On the 1900 Census, Marie Sucher, mother to John Philip,

William T. and Catherine is living with her daughter Catherine and husband Joseph

Arnold.”

#4. ANNA M BRISSELL was born 1844 in New York;

Harriett Martens note: It seems that Anna Maria Brissell was blind and was put in an

institution to live. I found 2 entries in the Oakland, California, City Directory.

Sacramento Daily Union, Volume 42, Number 7392, 23 January 1872

Concert in the Evening. — A vocal and instrumental concert will be given by the blind

vocalists, Miss Ella Moran and Miss Anna Brissell, at Turner Hall this evening. They will

be assisted by J. M. Woods, violinist, late of the Pioneer Blind Troupe, Professor Cooper

wife, E. Augustus Neresheim and others, and a fine entertainment may be anticipated.

Miss Moran gained much notice in musical circles while a member of the Pioneer Blind

Troupe, and Miss Brissell, a lady of Sacramento, who on this occasion makes her debut

on the stage, is a lady of unusual ability as a vocalist…__"The Haunted Stream." by Miss

Annie Brissell…, "What are the Wild Waves Saying" by Misses Moran and Brissell.

U.S. City Directories-California-Oakland 1889-1891. Oakland Alameda and Berkeley

City Directory 1889-90: “Anna M. Brissell, inmate, Institute Home for Adult Blind, res.

Same”

U.S. City Directories-California-Oakland-1889-1891. Husted's Oakland

Alameda Berkeley City Directory 1891

Anna M. Brissell, Broommaker, Industrial Home Adult Blind, res. same

William T. Brissell, Butcher, Res. Newland House. (It is interesting to note that brother

William is living in the same district.)

JERUSHA SIMONS DAVIS LINE

(Mother of Alice Sarah Stevenson (Davis)

(Wife to Lewis Morris Davis Sr. & Unknown Stevenson)

Obit for Lewis Morris Davis Sr. (NEWS: Mountain Democrat 1891 Aug 1)

A Good Man Gone

The death of L. M. Davis of El Dorado, on the 26th inst., removes another familiar

landmark of the town and county. He was a native of Maine whence he came to this State

and settled in this County. The fruit ranch near the town of El Dorado, which he leaves to

his surviving wife and children, is one of the best in that favored locality, and will long

perpetuate the evidence of his care, taste and industry. With a comfortable home and

competency for his family he leaves also the priceless example of a man tried and true in

every relation of an active and useful life. He was a representative friend and advocate of

temperance, even to the extent of prohibition, to which he devoted much money and time.

He was a good farmer, a good friend, a good citizen and a good man. We sincerely

78

commend his exalted moral example, and deplore his loss to his family and the

community.)

There were 3 children in this marriage

1. Lewis Morris Davis Jr. b. Dec 1858 married 3 Jul 1883, El Dorado, CA, Erminnie L.

Fales,

They had 4 Children

1. Bernice L. Davis b. Sep 1884

2. Gertrude L, Davis b. 28 Nov 1887 married Charles S. Coe

3. Laura M. Davis b. May 1892

4. Gladys Inez Davis b. 13 May 1894 married Carl Thomas Cooper

(picture on horse?)

2. Laura M. Davis b. Feb 1867 married 1891, Ernest W. Smith,

They had 2 Children

1, Leroy Ernest Smith b. 10 Jan 1893

2. Morris Tracy Smith b. 26 Jul 1897 married 1925 Gwynavere Inez

Danner

They had 2 Children

1. Stuart Lorenz Smith b. 16 Dec 1927

2. Bruce Alan Smith b. 17 Jul 1932

3. Marshall Thomas Davis b. Apr 1872. These are the brothers and sister that Alice Sarah

(Stevenson) (Davis) Brissell would have grown up with.

LOUIS M. DAVIS - Born March 12, 1827, Son of Isaac Davis of Montville, Waldo

County, Me. Immigrated to California via Isthmus of Panama in 1851. Was married

January 1, 1858, to Mrs. Jerusha Stevenson, who was a native of New York and daughter

of Silas Symons (Simons).

When first coming to California he mined at Placerville and Grizzly Flat. In 1859

he settled on his present place at EI Dorado (Mud Springs) where he has 66 acres of land,

well improved and planted on which is about 5,ooo fruit trees.

Mr. Davis is a warm supporter of the temperance cause, a Protestant in religion,

and in politics a Republican. Source: Harriett Martens.)

Jerusha F. Simons was 1 of 8 siblings including

Silas W. Simons

Laura Simons

Lucinda F. "Lucy" Simons

Jerusha F. Simons (This is George Levant Brissell's grandmother)

Eunice E. Simons (died at age 19, shortly after they moved to El Dorado, CA)

Emily Frances Simons (This is Harriett Martens’ ggg grandmother and mother of

Jim (Tonopah) & Frank Butler)

John F. Simons

Alice Maria Simons

79

Jerusha's F. Simons Stevenson Davis’ Obituary

Mountain Democrat, The (Placerville, California) 1898 April 2.

Once more has earth’s ties been severed by the grim reaper Death. Mrs. L. M.

Davis died at Colfax on the 25th of March, at the age of 65 years and 3 months. She was a

native of New York, but for many years has been a resident of El Dorado, where she was

well known and highly esteemed. She leaves two sons, L. M. and M.T. Davis and 2

daughters - Mrs. G, Brissell of Sacramento, and Mrs. E. Smith of Colfax.

The remains were brought here for interment; the funeral taking place from the

Church Sunday afternoon, Services by Rev. H. C. Richardson. A choir composed of Miss

Maud Lovless, Mrs. Wm. Clemence, S. Hill and R. C. Nelson rendered several

appropriate hymns.”

Note from researcher Harriett Marten: The Simons were a fairly close family who started

in New York, migrated to Racine, Wisconsin about 1846, and then moved on to El

Dorado California about 1852, with Jerusha and Emily as the hubs after their mother Oril

(Fiske) Simons died in 1870. After Jerusha died in 1898 and Emily died in 1913, the

family seemed to drift apart as families do, perusing their own interests. Only those

families that remained in the El Dorado area seemed to stay in close family contact.

SIMON’S LINE

Victor L Brissell’s grandmother Alice Sarah Stevenson (Davis) Brissell’s mother is

Jerusha F. Simons (Stevenson) Davis. The latter’s parents are Silas Simons and Oril

Fisk(e).

Silas Simons b. 14 May 1801 Enfield, Hartford, Connecticut

Oril Fisk(e) b. 15 May 1805, Brookfield, Madison, New York

1830 Census. Stafford, Geneseeco..Ny, Genesee co" NY

Img.860.

Silas Simons (a. 20-30)

Wife (a. 20-30)

Son (a. 5-10)

Dau (a. U5) "Laura b.1826"

Dau (a. U5)

Silas Simons

After 1830 there are at least four more children born.

Jerusha F. Simons b. 1831/32, d. 1889

Eunice E. Simons b. 1834, d. 1854

Emily Frances Simons b. 1838, d.1912

Alice Maria Simons b. 1842

80

The 1830 census information was provided by Anita Hayes, who spent 20

years researching Simons in Genesee Co. , and traced them to Racine.

-I found one of the U5 daughters, Laura, in Wisconsin

-and Alice in California and Wisconsin

1850 Census" Racine City. Racine Co.. Wisconsin P. 64 Img. 93

Silas Simons a. 49 b. CT 1801

Oril a. 44 b. NY 1806

Jerusha a. 20 b. NY 1830

Eunice a. 16 b. NY 1834

Emily a. 12 b. NY 1838

John a. 10 b. NY 1840

Alice a. 8 b. NY 1842

Jerusha Simons marries Unknown Stevenson and has daughter, Alice Sarah

Stevenson b. 1854, CA

Marriage Record - BYU ID #273447

Lewis M. DAVIS m. Jerusha STEVENSON

Co. of Rec: El Dorado Co., CA

Place: EI Dorado

Date: 1 Jan 1858

1860 Census. El Dorado. El Dorado. CA Img276

L. M. Davis a.33 b.Me,l827

Jerusha nee Simons (Stevenson) Davis a.2l b. NY, 1832

Alice (Stevenson) Davis a.5 b. CA, 1854

Louis Davis a. I b. CA, 1859

1860 Census. Racine Citv. Racine Co." Wisconsin P. 116

Oril Simons a.54, b. NY, l806

(I think that the older children stayed in Wisconsin, otherwise why would Oril

come back here.)

1870 Census. Mud Springs Twp. P.O. El Dorado. CA Img 159

Silas Simons a. 69, b. NY, 1801 Farm Laborer

Orrill a.64, b. NY, 1806

They are living with Lewis M. Davis and daughter Jerusha F. Davis.

Harriet Martens email to Jerry P Callister 2005

The common ancestors for your wife and myself are in the SIMONS Family tree. If your

wife (Susan) is the daughter of (Victor Lewis) Brissell then she is my 4th cousin.

I created two descendant trees, one for Jerusha F. Simons (mother of Alice Sarah

Stevenson, your wife’s tree and one from her sister Emily Frances Simons (my tree), it

makes it easier to place your wife in and then find the connection.

81

82

VICTOR L BRISSELL’S MATERNAL GRANDPARENTS APPLETON LINE

JOHN FREDERICK & ELIZA GLITHERO APPLETON

(Parents of Mary Ellen (Nellie) Appleton Brissell

(Grandparents of Victor Lewis Brissell)

83

John Frederick & Eliza Glithero Appleton

John F Appleton Family

John Frederick Appleton

84

Birth Certificate for Eliza Glithero 8 Sep 1850 to Mark & Ann Stanyon Glithero

85

Mary Ellen Appleton Brissell’s Sister Jane’s Wedding. LtoR: Eliza, John F, Jane,__, Albert,__, __.

From a Simons’ distant relative and researcher, Harriett Martens of Sacramento,

California:

I started with the birth certificate of John Frederick Appleton, Marriage certificate for

George Appleton and Emma Deacon, Death certificates for George and Emma, plus some

of the info that you had already collected and posted on the Family Search site. I ordered

additional certificates where I had to just to verify that I had the correct person.

Birth certificates quite often give the mother’s maiden name which can be a very useful

piece of info if you don't already have it, father’s name and occupation. Marriage

certificates will give the fathers' names of the bride and groom, their occupations, grooms

occupation, and bride and grooms addresses. Death certificates give you addresses of

deceased, their occupations, who was in attendance, and either the name of the husband

or wife. This is how I was able to get both George's and Emma’s fathers names.

During this time period (1700-1850) sons often will take on the occupation of the father,

or one that is related, but George changed his occupation at least 3 times. When He

married he was a Dyer, like his father. When John Frederick was born he was living in

Nottingham and worked as a Hosier - like the other members of the family living there.

When they came back to Leicestershire, he worked as a bookkeeper. The last occupation

may have been chosen due to his illness, probably required less physical labor.

86

Noting patterns in families are important, names are often repeated. Sons will often be

given their mother’s maiden name as a middle name. Where there are close family ties

with extended family the surname of an extended relative can also end up as a middle

name. When you look at the Shepherd family tree, you will notice that one son has a

middle name of Deacon. There are other such similar occurrences in these trees.

Always check out the married in's family as well, because names will come from both

sides. I always like to do what I call a 360 search. I will when possible try to find the

family of the person who marries into the line I am researching. This can provide some

very valuable unexpected information and give you key pieces to the puzzle.

For example, when searching for John Deacon’s marriage info, I found 3 different John

Deacon’s who married 3 different Sarah's about the same time and in the some city, but

different sections. Because I had found the 1861 census record showing Sarah’s birth

place as Weston upon Trent, Derbyshire I did a birth search for each Sarah in that county.

I found two Sarah’s by their names from Derbyshire, both with close birth dates, both of

whom were married to their respective John Deacons in Leicester, Leicestershire. So I

started with Sarah Shepherd because their marriage location was the closest in Leicester

to where the Appleton’s were located. Also, on Georges death certificate there was a

Samuel Groocock in attendance. The attendee is usually a relative of some kind. I got

Sarah’s birth record and her parent’s names and did searches on them respectively, found

their brothers and sisters and parents.

Then I began to forward search on these siblings to see who they married. Sarah’s aunt

Catherine married to Samuel Groocock. I was then able to locate them on the 1861

census. Their address, fortunately, was still the same and matched the address of the

Samuel Groocock on George's death certificate. This was how I found the correct Sarah

and ultimately verified I had the correct John Deacon as well.

Be sure to check all spelling forms of a name, do not discount a person just because the

name is spelled differently. Samuel Groocock is also Grewcock and Growcock, but one

in the same Person. Deacon can be Deokin. Payne can be Poin or Poine. Many people

during this time period were not very literate, including the Registrar’s.

While doing some of my British research I found your John Frederick Appleton on the

1881, 1891, 1901 census in England. On each census it stated his birth place as Sneinton,

Nottingham, Nottinghamshire. Out of curiosity, because I used to live near there, I went

looking for him in the 1871 census. I found a John Appleton a. 15 living in

Nottinghamshire, Nottingham, Sneinton, Dist 5.

Head Maria Appleton a. 60 b. Nottingham

Maria Appleton a.22 dau b. Nottingham, Sneinton

Sarah Appleton a. 20 dau b. Nottingham, Sneinton

John Appleton a. 15 son b, Nottingham, Sneinton

There is also a brother George Appleton nearby, married to Emma Brown.

87

1881 Census England Lancashire, Ardwick, Dist 10

John F. Appleton a.26 b. Snenton, Nottingham Occupation - House Painter

Eliza a.29 b. Corby, Northamptonshire

Mary E. a. 5 b. Corby, Northamptonshire

Emma D. a. 3 b. Leicester

George F. a. 1 b. Bermingham

1891 Census England, Lancashire, Levenshulme, Dist 93

John F. Appleton a.36 b. Shenlon, Nottingham

Eliza a. 39 b. Weldon, Northamptonshire

Mary E. a. 15 b. Corby, Northamptonshire

Emma a. 13 b. Percesley, Leicester

George F. a. 11 b. Birmingham Warwick

Eliza Jane a.7 b. Manchester, Lowe

Lillian a. 4 b. Manchester, Lowe

1901 Census Wales, Glamorgan, Canton, Dist 7

John Frederick Appleton a. 46 Occupation - Wholesale Druggist

Eliza a. 49

Mary Ellen a. 25

Eliza Jane a. 17

Lillian a. 14

Irene a. 9 b. Lancs, Manchester

Charles Robert a.7 b. Whitley, Northumberland

Marion a. 4 b. Cardiff, Glamorg