History of Cherokee County |
History of Cherokee County |
| THE FEE FAMILY - LIFE BEFORE CHEROKEE COUNTY - Letter written by Mrs. W. G. Fee I Elizabeth M. Welch was born in Washington Co., PA in the 1833 on July 5th. My father John Welch was born and reared on the farm where he direct of American ancestry. My mother, Elizabeth Woodburn, was born of Scotch Irish descent. To them were born nine children. Four sons and five daughters; all members of the United Presbyterian Church all married in Christian families. Some of my sisters were educated in Mrs. Hannas seminary at Washington, PA. There were other farmer boys and one a United Presbyterian minister. My sisters married beginning with the oldest. I was the 4th in number and married W. G. Fee on Aug 6, 1856. I studied this matter seriously and decided to accept his proposal. I left a fine home which is standing solid today. I often viewed it with pleasure thinking of the pleasant happy home we had. When plans were completed for our wedding, we thought best to have a quiet marriage. We were married in the morning at seven o’clock. We took breakfast and prepared to attend the commencement at Canonsburg, a high institution of learning. There were 4 couples in buggies. Exercises had opened. There were reserved seats in front for the bridal company. I was a modest bride dressed in white no doubt there was a tinge of red on my cheeks by the time I sat down. I will not dwell on the exercises. We had congratulations from many friends. After which we left for father Fees where a fine dinner was awaiting us. A company of perhaps 20. During the week we visited friends and relations returning to my father’s home attending services on Sabbath. In a few days we entered a new life beginning housekeeping in Canonsburg when W. G. was elected principal of the high school. Well, I did not feel the high standard of womanhood until my baby Willie came. He was the dearest baby on earth. Pretty, good, and sweet. In two years and 8 months, Howard came. He was much loved. After some time Lizzie Mary came. She was a darling. God took her when ten months old. I grieved for my dear baby. In two years, God was kind and gave me Jennie Venetta. Oh! How thankful I was for a baby girl. In the mean time we had financial trouble but I was thankful for health and strength. Thomas came next. He was a baby as all the others were. In the lapse of time came two boys. David Nelvin and Robert Nevin. I could count five boys. Just think five little boys. My heart never failed. God was my strength. They were a great care. I gave the good attention. Some time I had help but they were good babies. I had to have courage, diligence patience and prayer. In two years, another boy came. His name was James Herbert. I felt my care was increased. He did not have the attention as the others but was as welcome. Louis was next. A sweet, bright boy. I had no time to learn them smart tricks. They amused themselves among themselves. I expected him to be the last. In the next year we came west. One boy came to us in Cherokee. His name is Ernest Carl McClean. All were loved and given to the Lord. They grew up to be good men and good citizens. We were left alone when we moved to Quimby. After living there for six years the dear father was taken to his heavenly home. (Source: A copy of a letter Mrs. W. G. Fee (mother of James H Fee) had written. Former Cherokee County Historical Society working papers) |
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