Welcome to my Genealogy Blog.

Why not spend a minute or two at my Blog to see if there is anything interesting to read. Perhaps I've written something about your ancestor, gave a hint on how to locate something, provided a different way to do research, or just gave a glimpse into the world of genealogy research through words or photos. I try to make it light and enjoyable.

My roots are from New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire), New York, New Jersey, Michigan, Illinois, Wyoming, and the Eastern Townships of Quebec, Canada.

Please check out the labels on the right side for articles. The header tabs at the top are a work in progress.

I also have a blog called Seeing New England. Why not visit it, to get a feeling for the area.


Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Best Cemetery Ever -- I Hope your Ancestors were Buried Here

The first cemetery I visited was 10 years after I began doing research. On a cold but sunny January day, 1999 I discovered my 2nd great grandfather was buried in Salem, Massachusetts (after reading his Illinois obituary). When I called the cemetery, I reached the nicest receptionist ever, who confirmed that indeed my ancestor was there, along with many other Pooles. Within 45 minutes I was there!


Harmony Grove isn't a small cemetery, it is huge and on a large hill. My ancestor and immediate family were buried feet from the main road, so I was fortunate. With too many new names for me to digest, I returned a week later, and was given two detailed packets of information (one shown below), in addition, the receptionist went through their books and wrote out all the information for each individual! Information like their parents, age, cause of death, spouse and so forth. Must have taken hours to do it. On my 3rd trip, I brought her a box of fudge, and wrote a letter of recommendation for her file.


After all these years, I still remember how helpful she was, and that was the only time I brought a gift or wrote a letter. A few months ago I was thinking about her, and called the cemetery, the same wonderful Administrative Assistant answered. We chatted like old friends...she remembered me, the name, the fudge and how excited I was. When I found out she is retiring in two years, I said I would be back, and she suggested lunch. What a nice gesture. 


Below are the excellent records for my Poole family as supplied by Harmony Grove Cemetery in Salem, Massachusetts. The earliest was 1796, a transfer from another cemetery. In addition, I have the Daniels line there.