Before I started my genealogical research, I knew nothing about my great grandfather, my mother’s grandfather, except that hia name was James Kearse, and that his father Robert had come over from Ireland, fought in the Civil War, and raised ten children along with his wife Margaret. James, my great grandfather became a cop in Richmond, Virginia like his Dad, as did his son, my grandfather Tom. James married an Italian woman, apparently the love of his life, my great grandmother Mary Catherine Botto. Lots of friends gave him grief about marrying an Italian, but they were happy with their four children.
As a police officer, James was apparently very popular as he was nonminated to be chief, and stories of him filled the pages of The Richmond Times Dispatch 1870-1890 after the Civil War.
As I read the articles, I was thrilled to feel I was getting to know the man born almost 100 years before me! There was one story in the paper that gave me a great glimpse into James’ personality! It was hilarious, and showed his sense of humor! Such a cute story, I wish I had written it, and that I could have been there! I want to share it with you here, hope you enjoy.
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Sergeant James Kearse has a visitor on Halloween night at the Police Station–fromThe Richmond Times Dispatch,
Nov. 1, 1913
April 17, 2015 at 7:06 am
Holy Cow, Helen!! You have some ancestors!!
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April 17, 2015 at 7:07 am
I love this! So neat to find out about your ancestors.
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April 17, 2015 at 8:51 am
I had to remove all thoughts of Officer Krupkie from West Side Story out of my mind’s eye before I could properly read this story, Helen. It wouldn’t do to project! I’m envious of all you’ve learned about your ancestors.
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April 17, 2015 at 11:05 am
“A cheering crowd of urchins,” that article was hysterical. What a great glimpse into his life.man
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April 17, 2015 at 12:06 pm
Darling Carol, I have indeed! Wasn’t this hilarious! love you dearly!
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April 17, 2015 at 12:08 pm
Dear Lauren, it is so much fun to find stories, especially funny ones like this, which is more rare! Love it!
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April 17, 2015 at 12:09 pm
Oh Debs, that is so funny! Definitely not Officer Krupkie! LOL Whenever you’re ready to join my on ancestry, I’ll show you around! Thanks so much for your support!
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April 17, 2015 at 12:11 pm
Dear Scarlet, Isn’t that the truth! I feel like I’ve actually met the man now! I wish I had known him for real! Thanks for sharing this journey Helen
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April 17, 2015 at 5:09 pm
Loved it! What a great story to have in your family. Just think you are the one who will make sure that future generations will enjoy this tale.
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April 17, 2015 at 6:24 pm
Oh Charles! thank you! It is a great story isn’t it! I just laughed. It just makes me wish I’d known him. He certainly sounds like an Irish charmer!
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