Marion County WV

West Virginia Naturalization Records

Naturalization Certificate

Naturalization in the U.S. involved a two-step process: the Declaration of Intent (First Papers) and the Naturalization Record (Final Papers). Typically, First Papers were filed five years before Final Papers due to residency requirements. Before 1906, records were decentralized, but federal forms standardized the process. These naturalization records are accessible through Ancestry (paid) and Family Search (free), with various records spanning from 1814 to 1991, including numerous county-specific documents throughout West Virginia.

Biography of Henry Clay McDougal

Henry Clay McDougal, born December 9, 1844, in Marion County, Virginia, was the son of John F. and Elvira McDougal. He served in the Union Army during the Civil War and later worked in the U.S. Quartermaster Department. After establishing himself in Gallatin, Missouri, he became a prominent lawyer, mayor, and probate judge. A dedicated community member, he supported public education and engaged in local political affairs while maintaining a high professional reputation. McDougal was respected for his integrity and strong connections within the community.

Biography of Jacob Ramer Blackshere

Jacob Ramer Blackshere, born September 2, 1834, in West Virginia, played a pivotal role in Kansas agriculture, particularly in introducing alfalfa to the state in 1875. He established Clover Cliff Ranch in Chase County, growing it to 4,635 acres, where he also pioneered black Galloway cattle and forage crops like kaffir corn. A dedicated farmer and rancher, Blackshere resisted political ambitions, focusing instead on agricultural innovation. He passed away on November 10, 1894, leaving behind a legacy celebrated in Kansas’s agricultural history.

Biography of John P. Brady

John P. Brady, born on June 3, 1876, in Parkers Landing, Pennsylvania, began his extensive career in the oil industry at age fifteen. With roots tracing back to Irish settlers in Ohio, he gained experience across major oil fields before establishing himself in Havana, Kansas, where he became a leading producer with twenty-six active wells. A Masonic member and politically independent, he married Luln Walker in 1897 and has three children, contributing to both his family’s legacy and the oil industry.

Carpenter, Samantha L. Kuperus – Obituary

Samantha L. Kuperus Carpenter, known as Sammy, passed away at the age of 37 in Fairmont, W.Va. on October 28. A memorial service will be held on Monday at the Union County Senior Center, where attendees are encouraged to bring a rose. Born on December 2, 1968, in Auburn, Calif., she spent her youth in Union County, leaving a lasting impact on those around her with her encouraging spirit. She is survived by her father, stepmother, sons, and siblings.

Pfeil, Charles Fred “Chuck” – Obituary

Charles Fred “Chuck” Pfeil, 73, of Baker City, passed away on August 18, 2002, after a valiant ten-month battle with cancer. Born on February 11, 1929, in West Virginia, he worked in logging and construction before establishing a successful trailer sales business. He and his wife, Marilyn, transformed their ranch, Sutton Creek, into a premier alfalfa operation. A dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he is remembered for his kindness and ingenuity. He is survived by his family and many friends.