David Eldred Strain was the son of David Strain III and Maria Thornton McCutchan Strain. Rev. Jas. B. Ramsey married him to Margaret Jane Dunlap on 26 Aug 1856 in Rockbridge County, Virginia. They had 5 known children: Lula, Eva, John, Martha and David Jr. (all connected below).
His ancestral home of birth is across the road from New Providence Church, called Cloverdale Farm. Following his father's death, it was owned by all 4 sons and divided and sold to each other, until James owned it outright (follow the land deeds). His 2nd home was also on his father's extended property, just east of it, where he resided during the Civil War. This may have been his home that DM described as " that was the road that went in by the Wade's, you know [Beard Road]." (I think this is currently Route 726 in Raphine.( Sick and injured soldiers would walk to his home for care and stay for weeks, per his daughter Eva, who was born at the start of the war. His final "1780" home was purchased in Deed Book RR, p 9 on 19 Nov 1878 from the estate of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. (relative of his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn). It was across the street from Cloverdale Farm, on Rt. 252. The main road was moved to just in front of this house, which remains today (see photos).
He attended the University of Virginia in 1852-1853 (probably earlier also). In 1854, he graduated with a medical degree, from the Jefferson Medical College, now called Thomas Jefferson University, in Philadelphia. He was also a farmer. He had bad lungs (TB) and heart disease, preventing him from being drafted during the Civil War in 1862 and 1864. Regardless he joined the Home Guards in Rockbridge, as a Surgeon, mending the soldiers from his home. It is said he served in the Home Guards for the full 4 years. For military purposes, he was described as 5'10", with blue eyes, sandy hair, and a florid complexion.
See photos of copies of his original class cards shared by cousin MBS.
1) 3 of several class cards that "David E Strain of Virginia," received after passing his courses in 1853-1854. 1) Jefferson Medical College (later became Philadelphia College of Medicine) course 1853-54, Surgery. 2) Philadelphia School of Anatomy, 27 Oct 1853, by D Hayes Agnew, M.D. 3) Lectures on Operative Surgery by Henry H Smith, M.D. 27 Oct 1853.
2) David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867.
In 2007, cousin Dave McCorkle said: while Dr. Strain was in the Home Guard unit, he was fighting around Rockbridge Baths and up into Highland Co. at the end of the war. He had this funny looking blacksmith made sword he took with him, but had no idea who had it now. "They were all union sympathizers until they were attacked, then they were something else. Aunt Eva used to talk about they didn't have any food and what not, after this happened. The Union Soldiers took all their food and valuables in Lexington."
At one time he worked at the Western Lunatic Asylum AKA Western State Hospital in Staunton. Quite the entrepreneur, he sold whiskey, for which I have a receipt (photo) for 1200 gallons*. That's a lot of whiskey, perhaps for use for Civil War surgeries, in lieu of laudanum or along with other items he shipped and sold. He also was shipping groceries: flour, salt, oats, bacon, corn, seed, butter and lard to and from Richmond and Lynchburg, on the Virginia Central Railroad with his brother Samuel. In 1858 - Oct 1861 his company, Strain & Anderson signed notes in various amounts for money due for this business. By Dec 1861, Dr. Strain was purchasing medical supplies like cotton yard, spool cotton, caster oil, ink, potash, alum, turpentino, syringes, etc.
*The late merchant, Jos White's chancery records reveal he also had multiple large orders of whiskey, for his clients.
According to his daughter Eva (DM): he raised bees, made wine and whiskey (with the Clemmers). She also said the local medical doctors had him up before a medical hearing since his diphtheria patients survived. DM's father's family and other family members all contracted diphtheria and survived taking his treatment, when many were dying from the illness. "This thing [Dr. Strain's formula] has chlorine, I think, in it. But anyway, his patients didn't die, and there was some that thought he was practicing quackery because his patients didn't die. [Laugh] The medical profession has been through a lot. They did a lot of bleeding. Aunt Eva used to help him bleed people."
On the 1850 Dist. 51, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found him living with his parents: farmer David Strain, 55; Maria, 45; Susan, 22; student DAVID E., 20; farmer James, 19; farmer Samuel, 17; Elizabeth, 15; Eusebius, 13; Hastletine, 11 and Rebecca, 6, all Virginia born.
1852-53: David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867 (see photo and read caption).
In James F Gayley, M.D.'s A History of the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, 1858, PA, p 57 lists 1854 graduate David E. Strain of Va.
On the 24 Jul 1860 5th District, Kerrs Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census. I found physician DAVID Strain, 31 with $3K in real estate and $5145 in personal property; M Jane Strain, 20; L Delila Strain, 3 and male medical student E Henderson, 23, all Virginia born. They lived close to Madison Dunlap's family.
27 Mar 1862, his brother Eusebius writes David a letter from Charlottesville, where he was serving in a hospital. He request a $50 loan and a watch. Discusses the war some and mentions he saw John Dunlap in Staunton. Could this have been David's brother in law, John McKee Dunlap, who died 1863 (full letter is in his brother's Findagrave bio)?
1 Feb 1864, D.E. Strain (Z.J. Walker, J.M. Steele, etc.) signed an agreement with other Rockbridge Co. physicians that they would use discretion in making charges against those persons whose circumstances have suffered due to the war. Medicine in the 19th Century, Wyndham B. Blanton, MD, 1933, p 391.
On the 1870 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found physician D.E. STRAIN, 41; Mag J, 30; Lula D, 13; Eva L, 8; John M, 5 Martha M, 2 and at home Lucinda Payne (unknown), 20, all Virginia born.
19 Nov 1878 "Zachariah J. Culton, Executor of Zachariah Johnson (sic), sold his land to Dr. D.E. Strain. Deed Book "RR" page 9." David Beard is believed to be the original 1780 home builder, purchased it 6 Nov 1739 from Benjamin Borden. He sold it to Zachariah Johnston, Jr. 6 Mar 1799, DB B, p 345.
On the 1880 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia, I found farmer D. E. STRAIN, 51; wife Margaret J. 45; son/dau: teacher Eva L. 18; John M., 15; Mattie M., 12 and David E., 7 plus Susan Hicks, 11 (says 111, who was also in school), all Virginia born. D.E. Strain was Susan's guardian. His brother James, nearby also had two young Hicks children, Susan and William.
20 Mar 1883, Staunton Spectator: Western Lunatic Asylum elected officers at the board meeting, including first time serving, Dr. Strain as the 2nd Assistant. He was filling in for the late Dr. Pendleton. "Dr. Strain is the physician who suspected that the poison which killed the patients at the Asylum was aconitine." The 27 Feb 1883 Staunton Spectator reports the poisoning incident where 5 patients died and 4 survived following taking their medicine. Dr Strain was one of several Doctors on duty. There are many articles about the Asylum poisoning in the papers as it went to court. Dr. Strain and many doctors testified. Dr. Strain was nominated for 2nd Assistant Physician position at the Asylum per the 22 Apr 1884 issue of the Staunton Spectator.
David and his siblings (and many cousins) are mentioned in the 18 Mar 1885 Staunton Spectator, Vol. 62, #27, Augusta Co. Circuit Court in James Y. McCutchan vs Peggy McCutchan el al (including the Strains through David's mother). Elizabeth Craig McCutchan died in 1884, the widow of Charles C. McCutchan (died 1862) had land to distribute in her will. Charles is the brother of our kin, James McCutchan. It's in Chancery for the sale of Elizabeth McCutchan's estate, to be divided by her heirs. Photo of clipping is on his sister Susan's memorial site. There are more documents in Augusta Co. Chancery records.
24 Mar 1886 Dr. D.E.Strain put up (room and board) a Scottish boy named Hugh Willie, 18, from the N.Y Children's Aid Society per the Staunton Spectator of same date.
The 27 Apr 1887 issue of the Staunton Spectator under Republican Ticket in Rockbridge: At the Republican Convention held in Lexington on Monday of last week the following county ticket was nominated: County Treasurer: D.E. Strain.
1888: Walker's Greek. Pursuant to a call for District Convention to elect delegates to the Congressional Convention that meets in Lexington Sept. 6th to nominate a candidate for Congress, the republicans of Walker's Creek Distriot met at Crawford's School House on Saturday, Aug. 18th, 1888. W. Hank Shaw chairman of the district called the meeting to order and nominated Dr. D. E. Strain as chairman. The following were! elected as delegates with 1/4 vote each The distiict being entitled to but onejVote in the convention : Delegates. W. P. Sandridge, D. E. Strain, W. Agner, W. Hank Shaw. Delegates instructed to vote for the nomination of Hon. Jacob Yost for Congress. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 24 Aug 1888.
Nov 1889: Dr. D.E. Strain was a pallbearer at the large funeral of Zachariah Johnston Walker (1834 - 8 Nov 1889 ) and his wife Betty, who were both slain by an employee. Dr. Strain attended his wounds which were fatal. According to DM who lived with Dr. Strain's daughter Eva in her final 9 years, "Uncle David Strain was there at the trial, and when the shooting started, he jumped out of the second story window."
1890: Real Estate Transfers: D. E. Strain to H. S. and J. C. Beard, 31 acres and 153 poles on Moffett's Creek. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 8 May 1890.
16 May 1894, Dr. Strain extracted most of the gun shot in Mrs. J. B. Smiley and her two children. They were stuck by bird shot when Mr. J. B. Smiley's gun, sitting in a corner was accidentally knocked over by one of his children. Staunton Spectator of same date. Staunton Spectator of same date.
6 Nov 1895: "Dr. D. E. Strain's Residence Burned. The residence of Dr. D. E. Strain at Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, with portions of the furniture, &c, was burned last Thursday morning. A special to the News says: "Several gold watches were burned and other valuables belonging to relatives who were visiting them at the time. Strange to say the L (ell) was saved by the neighbors who had gathered to give aid in any way they could. The property was insured in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company for $1,300. $1,000. for the house and $300 on the contents. The fire, it is supposed, caught from the roof as the chimneys were being burnt out at the time." Staunton Spectator of same date. There was a longer article in another unnamed paper about it with more details. Cousin Paul E Brown's mother, Dr. Strain's niece was staying there at the time and lost everything. He supplied the article in an unknown local newspaper (see it on son John Madison Strain's attached site), kindly shared by cousin MarthaBWS.
3 Feb 1895, Two tramps a few nights ago, stole Dr. Strain's valuable saddle and a neighbor's 2 horses. Staunton Spectator.
28 Aug 1897, "Struck by Lightning. Lexington, Va, Aug. 27. - (Special) - The barns of Dr. D. E. Strain and Mr. Henry P. Mitchell, near Brownsburg, were struck by lightning during a rainstorm yesterday evening between 6 and 7 o'clock and with their contents, were entirely consumed. The barns were about two miles apart, and with their contents were insured for $1,000 in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company." Roanoke Times of same date.
2 Sep 1897, "Lightning Freaks. Last Tuesday evening, about dark…. the newly erected barn of Dr. Eldred Strain… was also struck by lightning and consumed. A peculiarity of the lightning's work is that when the buildings were struck there was not a cloud in sight. The flash that did the damage darted from a clear sky." Staunton Spectator of same date.
On the 1900 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found Physician ELDRED Strain, 71, Mar 1829; married 44 years to wife Margaret J., 62, Apr 1838, had 5 kids, all living: single dau Eva, 38, Sep 1861 and single son & farmer John, 35, Nov 1862, all Virginia born.
Mr and Mrs. Seebert from Kerr's creek, and Mrs. Samuel McCorkle from above Lexington, are visiting Dr.-and Mrs. D. E. Strain near here. Dr. and Mrs. Strain are the parents of Mis. Seebert and Mrs. McCorkle. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 31 May 1900.
27 Aug 1902, Hon. George Dabney Gray, died in Culpeper, Virginia. His wife, Charlotte Caroline was a Rockbridge native and the daughter of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. who "lived on and owned the farm now belonging to Dr. D. E. Strain near Brownsburg." Her sister Miss Mary G. Johnston resides in Lexington. (Dr. Strain's daughter in law, Evelyn is related to the Johnstons.) Lexington Gazette on this date.
1 Dec 1902, "Brownsburg. Gazette Correspondence, Dec. 1, Dr. D.E. Strain has about completed the addition of a second story to the ell of his house, which will be a great improvement." Lexington Gazette dated 3 Dec 1902.
He is on the 1850 to 1900 Virginia Federal Censuses. At one time he was a Deacon at New Monmouth Church. Dr. Strain met his future wife at New Monmouth Church (DEMcC). He later attended New Providence Presbyterian Church and even taught Sunday School classes there. It's believed he was kicked out of the church over making alcohol, but I haven't seen the church records to verify it but it was obviously settled, as he is buried there, along with his parents and siblings, children John and Eva, etc.
Children John and Eva were the last to reside in Dr. Strain's home. Some time after son John died in 1933, daughter Lula D S McCorkle's son Eldred, wife Jane and son Dave moved in to care for Eva. She was an interesting gal. She died in 1939 and they left in about 1941 with lots of memories and Eva's stories to share.
Included in photos on this site, is a 1908 land survey for Ashabel G. Beard showing the land of his David's father (died 1854), that went to his 4 sons and ended with 2 sons: James and David, Jr (AKA Dr. David E.) and following their passing, to James wife Eglantine N. Strain and Dr David's unmarried daughter Eva Strain. It's all across from New Providence Church. The Northern part shows land that was "once Dr. Strain's" including a lot that went to his daughter Eva. This is the land he resided on during the Civil War when soldiers came to his home for mending.
In the 1990's, his last home was falling apart (exposed roof, etc.) on Route 252, 1 mile north of Brownsburg on the west side of the road. The current owner shared he was only interested in the land for his cattle. I understand it's received some maintenance since then. :) It was formerly owned by Zachariah Johnston, Jr., kin to his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn Moffett Strain. The unique fireplace on the first floor was stunning with wonderful detail. The main road was cut through his property, so the home is close to the road now, flanked by 2 large trees. I understand he used to have music and dances at this house. A true Renaissance man.
Cousins have possessions from his home: a black leather medical bag, horsehair sofa, wood medical cabinet, marble topped side table, oak shaving mirror, old painted mantel clock, an elegant desk with a tall built on bookcase with glass panes, 3 large pencil drawn sketches of 2 of his brothers (James and Samuel) and himself, diaries 1900, 1902, 1903 & 1904, all say compliments from a medical supplier, "M.J. Breitenbach Co., NYC Year Book" (with little details, often included weather - a farmer to the end) and his medical records book. I have his old family album (carte de visites) or possibly his father's. He wrote his known Strain family history on the back of an 1899 calendar page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
Some diary entries: 2 Aug 1903: Cloudy-light rain last nyt. David & Evalin here. 3 Aug 1903: Cloudy & rain last night - coffee & Benson plowing . Rev. Jones & wife here from St. Johns - 15 3/4 dys (or ?) Coffee to above date credit on Book, 11.70. On 29 Dec 1900: Shot mad steer today - second one I've lost with Hyampheovine (? hard to read). On 31 Dec 1900: Another steer not eating today (Looks like he was growing coffee. Benson worker on the farm.) His medical records book has several recipes. One says 1858 & 59, Diphtheria (or Malignant sore throat) and RX Recipe for Dropsy is on the next page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
9 Nov 1904, Dr. Strain's son David and wife were called by the "extreme illness" of his dad, per the Lexington Gazette.
Dr. David E. Strain is listed in the Directory of Deceased American Physicians, 1804 to 1929, death date 26 Nov 1904 in Brownsburg, Virginia, type of practice: Allopath, JAMA citation: 43:1805 (Note: Allopath meaning he practiced conventional medicine (allopathy).
Dr. David E. Strain, (Special to the Times Dispatch) Lexington, Virginia., Nov. 26 - Mr. David E. Strain died this morning at his home near Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, aged 75 years. Death was due to a general breaking down. Dr. Strain was educated at Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, and had practiced medicine for many years in Rockbridge. He is survived by his wife, who was a Miss Dunlap, of Rockbridge, and five children, among them Mr. D. E. Strain, of Lexington. Times Dispatch, #16, 699, dated 27 Nov 1904. It also ran in the Staunton Spectator and Vindicator, dated 2 Dec 1904.
30 Nov 1904, "Death of Dr. D. E. Strain, Dr. D. E. Strain a well known physician of Rockbridge, died at his home near Brownsburg last Saturday morning after an illness of nearly a year, occasioned by advancing age. He was in his 76th year, the date of his birth being March 27, 1829. The funeral took place Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock from his late home, followed by interment in New Providence church burying-ground. Rev. J. M. S__der, pastor of the Reformed church at Newport of which Dr. Strain was an elder, officiated, assisted by Rev. Dr. G. A. Wilson, a pastor of New Providence Presbyterian church. Dr. Strain was a son of Mr. David Strain, deceased of the New Providence neighborhood. He was educated at the University of Virginia and at the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. JM College was then a more prestigious school. After graduation he began the practice of his profession on Kerr's Creek. Later he located in the neighborhood of Brownsburg, and his whole professional life was spent among the people of his native county. As a physician he was successful and he was held in the highest esteem by those who knew him. He for a time during the Civil War was a member of the Home Guard. Dr. Strain married Miss Maggie Dunlap, daughter of the late Mr. Madison Dunlap of Kerr's Creek. She survives with five children -- Mrs. S. W. McCorkle of near Lexington, Mrs. C. T. Sebert (sic) of near Monmouth, Miss Eva L. Strain and Mr. John M. Strain, who resided with their parents, and Mr. David E. Strain of Lexington. Three sisters also survive - Mrs. George Hull of Mexico, Mo.; Mrs. Hassie Edmondson, widow of Mr. John Edmondson of Iowa City, Iowa; and Mrs. Emma Ramsey, widow of Dr. Ramsey of Richmond." 30 Nov 1904, Lexington Gazette, out of copyright.
The meaning of the acanthus leaves on his gravestone is "enduring life." The curly cue I suspect is part of a Corinthian column, often associated with the acanthus leaves. See gravestone transcription below.
Click on my photos on this site to read the captions. DO NOT REPRODUCE ANY TEXT OR PHOTOS on this page.
Came across an Ancestry Tree today 8-2018 that states Dr. David Eldred Strain (correct wife and birth year and place) died in "Hendricks, IN." His above obits state he died at his home in Brownsburg, Virginia.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved
His ancestral home of birth is across the road from New Providence Church, called Cloverdale Farm. Following his father's death, it was owned by all 4 sons and divided and sold to each other, until James owned it outright (follow the land deeds). His 2nd home was also on his father's extended property, just east of it, where he resided during the Civil War. This may have been his home that DM described as " that was the road that went in by the Wade's, you know [Beard Road]." (I think this is currently Route 726 in Raphine.( Sick and injured soldiers would walk to his home for care and stay for weeks, per his daughter Eva, who was born at the start of the war. His final "1780" home was purchased in Deed Book RR, p 9 on 19 Nov 1878 from the estate of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. (relative of his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn). It was across the street from Cloverdale Farm, on Rt. 252. The main road was moved to just in front of this house, which remains today (see photos).
He attended the University of Virginia in 1852-1853 (probably earlier also). In 1854, he graduated with a medical degree, from the Jefferson Medical College, now called Thomas Jefferson University, in Philadelphia. He was also a farmer. He had bad lungs (TB) and heart disease, preventing him from being drafted during the Civil War in 1862 and 1864. Regardless he joined the Home Guards in Rockbridge, as a Surgeon, mending the soldiers from his home. It is said he served in the Home Guards for the full 4 years. For military purposes, he was described as 5'10", with blue eyes, sandy hair, and a florid complexion.
See photos of copies of his original class cards shared by cousin MBS.
1) 3 of several class cards that "David E Strain of Virginia," received after passing his courses in 1853-1854. 1) Jefferson Medical College (later became Philadelphia College of Medicine) course 1853-54, Surgery. 2) Philadelphia School of Anatomy, 27 Oct 1853, by D Hayes Agnew, M.D. 3) Lectures on Operative Surgery by Henry H Smith, M.D. 27 Oct 1853.
2) David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867.
In 2007, cousin Dave McCorkle said: while Dr. Strain was in the Home Guard unit, he was fighting around Rockbridge Baths and up into Highland Co. at the end of the war. He had this funny looking blacksmith made sword he took with him, but had no idea who had it now. "They were all union sympathizers until they were attacked, then they were something else. Aunt Eva used to talk about they didn't have any food and what not, after this happened. The Union Soldiers took all their food and valuables in Lexington."
At one time he worked at the Western Lunatic Asylum AKA Western State Hospital in Staunton. Quite the entrepreneur, he sold whiskey, for which I have a receipt (photo) for 1200 gallons*. That's a lot of whiskey, perhaps for use for Civil War surgeries, in lieu of laudanum or along with other items he shipped and sold. He also was shipping groceries: flour, salt, oats, bacon, corn, seed, butter and lard to and from Richmond and Lynchburg, on the Virginia Central Railroad with his brother Samuel. In 1858 - Oct 1861 his company, Strain & Anderson signed notes in various amounts for money due for this business. By Dec 1861, Dr. Strain was purchasing medical supplies like cotton yard, spool cotton, caster oil, ink, potash, alum, turpentino, syringes, etc.
*The late merchant, Jos White's chancery records reveal he also had multiple large orders of whiskey, for his clients.
According to his daughter Eva (DM): he raised bees, made wine and whiskey (with the Clemmers). She also said the local medical doctors had him up before a medical hearing since his diphtheria patients survived. DM's father's family and other family members all contracted diphtheria and survived taking his treatment, when many were dying from the illness. "This thing [Dr. Strain's formula] has chlorine, I think, in it. But anyway, his patients didn't die, and there was some that thought he was practicing quackery because his patients didn't die. [Laugh] The medical profession has been through a lot. They did a lot of bleeding. Aunt Eva used to help him bleed people."
On the 1850 Dist. 51, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found him living with his parents: farmer David Strain, 55; Maria, 45; Susan, 22; student DAVID E., 20; farmer James, 19; farmer Samuel, 17; Elizabeth, 15; Eusebius, 13; Hastletine, 11 and Rebecca, 6, all Virginia born.
1852-53: David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867 (see photo and read caption).
In James F Gayley, M.D.'s A History of the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, 1858, PA, p 57 lists 1854 graduate David E. Strain of Va.
On the 24 Jul 1860 5th District, Kerrs Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census. I found physician DAVID Strain, 31 with $3K in real estate and $5145 in personal property; M Jane Strain, 20; L Delila Strain, 3 and male medical student E Henderson, 23, all Virginia born. They lived close to Madison Dunlap's family.
27 Mar 1862, his brother Eusebius writes David a letter from Charlottesville, where he was serving in a hospital. He request a $50 loan and a watch. Discusses the war some and mentions he saw John Dunlap in Staunton. Could this have been David's brother in law, John McKee Dunlap, who died 1863 (full letter is in his brother's Findagrave bio)?
1 Feb 1864, D.E. Strain (Z.J. Walker, J.M. Steele, etc.) signed an agreement with other Rockbridge Co. physicians that they would use discretion in making charges against those persons whose circumstances have suffered due to the war. Medicine in the 19th Century, Wyndham B. Blanton, MD, 1933, p 391.
On the 1870 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found physician D.E. STRAIN, 41; Mag J, 30; Lula D, 13; Eva L, 8; John M, 5 Martha M, 2 and at home Lucinda Payne (unknown), 20, all Virginia born.
19 Nov 1878 "Zachariah J. Culton, Executor of Zachariah Johnson (sic), sold his land to Dr. D.E. Strain. Deed Book "RR" page 9." David Beard is believed to be the original 1780 home builder, purchased it 6 Nov 1739 from Benjamin Borden. He sold it to Zachariah Johnston, Jr. 6 Mar 1799, DB B, p 345.
On the 1880 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia, I found farmer D. E. STRAIN, 51; wife Margaret J. 45; son/dau: teacher Eva L. 18; John M., 15; Mattie M., 12 and David E., 7 plus Susan Hicks, 11 (says 111, who was also in school), all Virginia born. D.E. Strain was Susan's guardian. His brother James, nearby also had two young Hicks children, Susan and William.
20 Mar 1883, Staunton Spectator: Western Lunatic Asylum elected officers at the board meeting, including first time serving, Dr. Strain as the 2nd Assistant. He was filling in for the late Dr. Pendleton. "Dr. Strain is the physician who suspected that the poison which killed the patients at the Asylum was aconitine." The 27 Feb 1883 Staunton Spectator reports the poisoning incident where 5 patients died and 4 survived following taking their medicine. Dr Strain was one of several Doctors on duty. There are many articles about the Asylum poisoning in the papers as it went to court. Dr. Strain and many doctors testified. Dr. Strain was nominated for 2nd Assistant Physician position at the Asylum per the 22 Apr 1884 issue of the Staunton Spectator.
David and his siblings (and many cousins) are mentioned in the 18 Mar 1885 Staunton Spectator, Vol. 62, #27, Augusta Co. Circuit Court in James Y. McCutchan vs Peggy McCutchan el al (including the Strains through David's mother). Elizabeth Craig McCutchan died in 1884, the widow of Charles C. McCutchan (died 1862) had land to distribute in her will. Charles is the brother of our kin, James McCutchan. It's in Chancery for the sale of Elizabeth McCutchan's estate, to be divided by her heirs. Photo of clipping is on his sister Susan's memorial site. There are more documents in Augusta Co. Chancery records.
24 Mar 1886 Dr. D.E.Strain put up (room and board) a Scottish boy named Hugh Willie, 18, from the N.Y Children's Aid Society per the Staunton Spectator of same date.
The 27 Apr 1887 issue of the Staunton Spectator under Republican Ticket in Rockbridge: At the Republican Convention held in Lexington on Monday of last week the following county ticket was nominated: County Treasurer: D.E. Strain.
1888: Walker's Greek. Pursuant to a call for District Convention to elect delegates to the Congressional Convention that meets in Lexington Sept. 6th to nominate a candidate for Congress, the republicans of Walker's Creek Distriot met at Crawford's School House on Saturday, Aug. 18th, 1888. W. Hank Shaw chairman of the district called the meeting to order and nominated Dr. D. E. Strain as chairman. The following were! elected as delegates with 1/4 vote each The distiict being entitled to but onejVote in the convention : Delegates. W. P. Sandridge, D. E. Strain, W. Agner, W. Hank Shaw. Delegates instructed to vote for the nomination of Hon. Jacob Yost for Congress. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 24 Aug 1888.
Nov 1889: Dr. D.E. Strain was a pallbearer at the large funeral of Zachariah Johnston Walker (1834 - 8 Nov 1889 ) and his wife Betty, who were both slain by an employee. Dr. Strain attended his wounds which were fatal. According to DM who lived with Dr. Strain's daughter Eva in her final 9 years, "Uncle David Strain was there at the trial, and when the shooting started, he jumped out of the second story window."
1890: Real Estate Transfers: D. E. Strain to H. S. and J. C. Beard, 31 acres and 153 poles on Moffett's Creek. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 8 May 1890.
16 May 1894, Dr. Strain extracted most of the gun shot in Mrs. J. B. Smiley and her two children. They were stuck by bird shot when Mr. J. B. Smiley's gun, sitting in a corner was accidentally knocked over by one of his children. Staunton Spectator of same date. Staunton Spectator of same date.
6 Nov 1895: "Dr. D. E. Strain's Residence Burned. The residence of Dr. D. E. Strain at Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, with portions of the furniture, &c, was burned last Thursday morning. A special to the News says: "Several gold watches were burned and other valuables belonging to relatives who were visiting them at the time. Strange to say the L (ell) was saved by the neighbors who had gathered to give aid in any way they could. The property was insured in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company for $1,300. $1,000. for the house and $300 on the contents. The fire, it is supposed, caught from the roof as the chimneys were being burnt out at the time." Staunton Spectator of same date. There was a longer article in another unnamed paper about it with more details. Cousin Paul E Brown's mother, Dr. Strain's niece was staying there at the time and lost everything. He supplied the article in an unknown local newspaper (see it on son John Madison Strain's attached site), kindly shared by cousin MarthaBWS.
3 Feb 1895, Two tramps a few nights ago, stole Dr. Strain's valuable saddle and a neighbor's 2 horses. Staunton Spectator.
28 Aug 1897, "Struck by Lightning. Lexington, Va, Aug. 27. - (Special) - The barns of Dr. D. E. Strain and Mr. Henry P. Mitchell, near Brownsburg, were struck by lightning during a rainstorm yesterday evening between 6 and 7 o'clock and with their contents, were entirely consumed. The barns were about two miles apart, and with their contents were insured for $1,000 in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company." Roanoke Times of same date.
2 Sep 1897, "Lightning Freaks. Last Tuesday evening, about dark…. the newly erected barn of Dr. Eldred Strain… was also struck by lightning and consumed. A peculiarity of the lightning's work is that when the buildings were struck there was not a cloud in sight. The flash that did the damage darted from a clear sky." Staunton Spectator of same date.
On the 1900 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found Physician ELDRED Strain, 71, Mar 1829; married 44 years to wife Margaret J., 62, Apr 1838, had 5 kids, all living: single dau Eva, 38, Sep 1861 and single son & farmer John, 35, Nov 1862, all Virginia born.
Mr and Mrs. Seebert from Kerr's creek, and Mrs. Samuel McCorkle from above Lexington, are visiting Dr.-and Mrs. D. E. Strain near here. Dr. and Mrs. Strain are the parents of Mis. Seebert and Mrs. McCorkle. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 31 May 1900.
27 Aug 1902, Hon. George Dabney Gray, died in Culpeper, Virginia. His wife, Charlotte Caroline was a Rockbridge native and the daughter of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. who "lived on and owned the farm now belonging to Dr. D. E. Strain near Brownsburg." Her sister Miss Mary G. Johnston resides in Lexington. (Dr. Strain's daughter in law, Evelyn is related to the Johnstons.) Lexington Gazette on this date.
1 Dec 1902, "Brownsburg. Gazette Correspondence, Dec. 1, Dr. D.E. Strain has about completed the addition of a second story to the ell of his house, which will be a great improvement." Lexington Gazette dated 3 Dec 1902.
He is on the 1850 to 1900 Virginia Federal Censuses. At one time he was a Deacon at New Monmouth Church. Dr. Strain met his future wife at New Monmouth Church (DEMcC). He later attended New Providence Presbyterian Church and even taught Sunday School classes there. It's believed he was kicked out of the church over making alcohol, but I haven't seen the church records to verify it but it was obviously settled, as he is buried there, along with his parents and siblings, children John and Eva, etc.
Children John and Eva were the last to reside in Dr. Strain's home. Some time after son John died in 1933, daughter Lula D S McCorkle's son Eldred, wife Jane and son Dave moved in to care for Eva. She was an interesting gal. She died in 1939 and they left in about 1941 with lots of memories and Eva's stories to share.
Included in photos on this site, is a 1908 land survey for Ashabel G. Beard showing the land of his David's father (died 1854), that went to his 4 sons and ended with 2 sons: James and David, Jr (AKA Dr. David E.) and following their passing, to James wife Eglantine N. Strain and Dr David's unmarried daughter Eva Strain. It's all across from New Providence Church. The Northern part shows land that was "once Dr. Strain's" including a lot that went to his daughter Eva. This is the land he resided on during the Civil War when soldiers came to his home for mending.
In the 1990's, his last home was falling apart (exposed roof, etc.) on Route 252, 1 mile north of Brownsburg on the west side of the road. The current owner shared he was only interested in the land for his cattle. I understand it's received some maintenance since then. :) It was formerly owned by Zachariah Johnston, Jr., kin to his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn Moffett Strain. The unique fireplace on the first floor was stunning with wonderful detail. The main road was cut through his property, so the home is close to the road now, flanked by 2 large trees. I understand he used to have music and dances at this house. A true Renaissance man.
Cousins have possessions from his home: a black leather medical bag, horsehair sofa, wood medical cabinet, marble topped side table, oak shaving mirror, old painted mantel clock, an elegant desk with a tall built on bookcase with glass panes, 3 large pencil drawn sketches of 2 of his brothers (James and Samuel) and himself, diaries 1900, 1902, 1903 & 1904, all say compliments from a medical supplier, "M.J. Breitenbach Co., NYC Year Book" (with little details, often included weather - a farmer to the end) and his medical records book. I have his old family album (carte de visites) or possibly his father's. He wrote his known Strain family history on the back of an 1899 calendar page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
Some diary entries: 2 Aug 1903: Cloudy-light rain last nyt. David & Evalin here. 3 Aug 1903: Cloudy & rain last night - coffee & Benson plowing . Rev. Jones & wife here from St. Johns - 15 3/4 dys (or ?) Coffee to above date credit on Book, 11.70. On 29 Dec 1900: Shot mad steer today - second one I've lost with Hyampheovine (? hard to read). On 31 Dec 1900: Another steer not eating today (Looks like he was growing coffee. Benson worker on the farm.) His medical records book has several recipes. One says 1858 & 59, Diphtheria (or Malignant sore throat) and RX Recipe for Dropsy is on the next page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
9 Nov 1904, Dr. Strain's son David and wife were called by the "extreme illness" of his dad, per the Lexington Gazette.
Dr. David E. Strain is listed in the Directory of Deceased American Physicians, 1804 to 1929, death date 26 Nov 1904 in Brownsburg, Virginia, type of practice: Allopath, JAMA citation: 43:1805 (Note: Allopath meaning he practiced conventional medicine (allopathy).
Dr. David E. Strain, (Special to the Times Dispatch) Lexington, Virginia., Nov. 26 - Mr. David E. Strain died this morning at his home near Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, aged 75 years. Death was due to a general breaking down. Dr. Strain was educated at Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, and had practiced medicine for many years in Rockbridge. He is survived by his wife, who was a Miss Dunlap, of Rockbridge, and five children, among them Mr. D. E. Strain, of Lexington. Times Dispatch, #16, 699, dated 27 Nov 1904. It also ran in the Staunton Spectator and Vindicator, dated 2 Dec 1904.
30 Nov 1904, "Death of Dr. D. E. Strain, Dr. D. E. Strain a well known physician of Rockbridge, died at his home near Brownsburg last Saturday morning after an illness of nearly a year, occasioned by advancing age. He was in his 76th year, the date of his birth being March 27, 1829. The funeral took place Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock from his late home, followed by interment in New Providence church burying-ground. Rev. J. M. S__der, pastor of the Reformed church at Newport of which Dr. Strain was an elder, officiated, assisted by Rev. Dr. G. A. Wilson, a pastor of New Providence Presbyterian church. Dr. Strain was a son of Mr. David Strain, deceased of the New Providence neighborhood. He was educated at the University of Virginia and at the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. JM College was then a more prestigious school. After graduation he began the practice of his profession on Kerr's Creek. Later he located in the neighborhood of Brownsburg, and his whole professional life was spent among the people of his native county. As a physician he was successful and he was held in the highest esteem by those who knew him. He for a time during the Civil War was a member of the Home Guard. Dr. Strain married Miss Maggie Dunlap, daughter of the late Mr. Madison Dunlap of Kerr's Creek. She survives with five children -- Mrs. S. W. McCorkle of near Lexington, Mrs. C. T. Sebert (sic) of near Monmouth, Miss Eva L. Strain and Mr. John M. Strain, who resided with their parents, and Mr. David E. Strain of Lexington. Three sisters also survive - Mrs. George Hull of Mexico, Mo.; Mrs. Hassie Edmondson, widow of Mr. John Edmondson of Iowa City, Iowa; and Mrs. Emma Ramsey, widow of Dr. Ramsey of Richmond." 30 Nov 1904, Lexington Gazette, out of copyright.
The meaning of the acanthus leaves on his gravestone is "enduring life." The curly cue I suspect is part of a Corinthian column, often associated with the acanthus leaves. See gravestone transcription below.
Click on my photos on this site to read the captions. DO NOT REPRODUCE ANY TEXT OR PHOTOS on this page.
Came across an Ancestry Tree today 8-2018 that states Dr. David Eldred Strain (correct wife and birth year and place) died in "Hendricks, IN." His above obits state he died at his home in Brownsburg, Virginia.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved
David Eldred Strain was the son of David Strain III and Maria Thornton McCutchan Strain. Rev. Jas. B. Ramsey married him to Margaret Jane Dunlap on 26 Aug 1856 in Rockbridge County, Virginia. They had 5 known children: Lula, Eva, John, Martha and David Jr. (all connected below).
His ancestral home of birth is across the road from New Providence Church, called Cloverdale Farm. Following his father's death, it was owned by all 4 sons and divided and sold to each other, until James owned it outright (follow the land deeds). His 2nd home was also on his father's extended property, just east of it, where he resided during the Civil War. This may have been his home that DM described as " that was the road that went in by the Wade's, you know [Beard Road]." (I think this is currently Route 726 in Raphine.( Sick and injured soldiers would walk to his home for care and stay for weeks, per his daughter Eva, who was born at the start of the war. His final "1780" home was purchased in Deed Book RR, p 9 on 19 Nov 1878 from the estate of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. (relative of his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn). It was across the street from Cloverdale Farm, on Rt. 252. The main road was moved to just in front of this house, which remains today (see photos).
He attended the University of Virginia in 1852-1853 (probably earlier also). In 1854, he graduated with a medical degree, from the Jefferson Medical College, now called Thomas Jefferson University, in Philadelphia. He was also a farmer. He had bad lungs (TB) and heart disease, preventing him from being drafted during the Civil War in 1862 and 1864. Regardless he joined the Home Guards in Rockbridge, as a Surgeon, mending the soldiers from his home. It is said he served in the Home Guards for the full 4 years. For military purposes, he was described as 5'10", with blue eyes, sandy hair, and a florid complexion.
See photos of copies of his original class cards shared by cousin MBS.
1) 3 of several class cards that "David E Strain of Virginia," received after passing his courses in 1853-1854. 1) Jefferson Medical College (later became Philadelphia College of Medicine) course 1853-54, Surgery. 2) Philadelphia School of Anatomy, 27 Oct 1853, by D Hayes Agnew, M.D. 3) Lectures on Operative Surgery by Henry H Smith, M.D. 27 Oct 1853.
2) David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867.
In 2007, cousin Dave McCorkle said: while Dr. Strain was in the Home Guard unit, he was fighting around Rockbridge Baths and up into Highland Co. at the end of the war. He had this funny looking blacksmith made sword he took with him, but had no idea who had it now. "They were all union sympathizers until they were attacked, then they were something else. Aunt Eva used to talk about they didn't have any food and what not, after this happened. The Union Soldiers took all their food and valuables in Lexington."
At one time he worked at the Western Lunatic Asylum AKA Western State Hospital in Staunton. Quite the entrepreneur, he sold whiskey, for which I have a receipt (photo) for 1200 gallons*. That's a lot of whiskey, perhaps for use for Civil War surgeries, in lieu of laudanum or along with other items he shipped and sold. He also was shipping groceries: flour, salt, oats, bacon, corn, seed, butter and lard to and from Richmond and Lynchburg, on the Virginia Central Railroad with his brother Samuel. In 1858 - Oct 1861 his company, Strain & Anderson signed notes in various amounts for money due for this business. By Dec 1861, Dr. Strain was purchasing medical supplies like cotton yard, spool cotton, caster oil, ink, potash, alum, turpentino, syringes, etc.
*The late merchant, Jos White's chancery records reveal he also had multiple large orders of whiskey, for his clients.
According to his daughter Eva (DM): he raised bees, made wine and whiskey (with the Clemmers). She also said the local medical doctors had him up before a medical hearing since his diphtheria patients survived. DM's father's family and other family members all contracted diphtheria and survived taking his treatment, when many were dying from the illness. "This thing [Dr. Strain's formula] has chlorine, I think, in it. But anyway, his patients didn't die, and there was some that thought he was practicing quackery because his patients didn't die. [Laugh] The medical profession has been through a lot. They did a lot of bleeding. Aunt Eva used to help him bleed people."
On the 1850 Dist. 51, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found him living with his parents: farmer David Strain, 55; Maria, 45; Susan, 22; student DAVID E., 20; farmer James, 19; farmer Samuel, 17; Elizabeth, 15; Eusebius, 13; Hastletine, 11 and Rebecca, 6, all Virginia born.
1852-53: David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867 (see photo and read caption).
In James F Gayley, M.D.'s A History of the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, 1858, PA, p 57 lists 1854 graduate David E. Strain of Va.
On the 24 Jul 1860 5th District, Kerrs Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census. I found physician DAVID Strain, 31 with $3K in real estate and $5145 in personal property; M Jane Strain, 20; L Delila Strain, 3 and male medical student E Henderson, 23, all Virginia born. They lived close to Madison Dunlap's family.
27 Mar 1862, his brother Eusebius writes David a letter from Charlottesville, where he was serving in a hospital. He request a $50 loan and a watch. Discusses the war some and mentions he saw John Dunlap in Staunton. Could this have been David's brother in law, John McKee Dunlap, who died 1863 (full letter is in his brother's Findagrave bio)?
1 Feb 1864, D.E. Strain (Z.J. Walker, J.M. Steele, etc.) signed an agreement with other Rockbridge Co. physicians that they would use discretion in making charges against those persons whose circumstances have suffered due to the war. Medicine in the 19th Century, Wyndham B. Blanton, MD, 1933, p 391.
On the 1870 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found physician D.E. STRAIN, 41; Mag J, 30; Lula D, 13; Eva L, 8; John M, 5 Martha M, 2 and at home Lucinda Payne (unknown), 20, all Virginia born.
19 Nov 1878 "Zachariah J. Culton, Executor of Zachariah Johnson (sic), sold his land to Dr. D.E. Strain. Deed Book "RR" page 9." David Beard is believed to be the original 1780 home builder, purchased it 6 Nov 1739 from Benjamin Borden. He sold it to Zachariah Johnston, Jr. 6 Mar 1799, DB B, p 345.
On the 1880 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia, I found farmer D. E. STRAIN, 51; wife Margaret J. 45; son/dau: teacher Eva L. 18; John M., 15; Mattie M., 12 and David E., 7 plus Susan Hicks, 11 (says 111, who was also in school), all Virginia born. D.E. Strain was Susan's guardian. His brother James, nearby also had two young Hicks children, Susan and William.
20 Mar 1883, Staunton Spectator: Western Lunatic Asylum elected officers at the board meeting, including first time serving, Dr. Strain as the 2nd Assistant. He was filling in for the late Dr. Pendleton. "Dr. Strain is the physician who suspected that the poison which killed the patients at the Asylum was aconitine." The 27 Feb 1883 Staunton Spectator reports the poisoning incident where 5 patients died and 4 survived following taking their medicine. Dr Strain was one of several Doctors on duty. There are many articles about the Asylum poisoning in the papers as it went to court. Dr. Strain and many doctors testified. Dr. Strain was nominated for 2nd Assistant Physician position at the Asylum per the 22 Apr 1884 issue of the Staunton Spectator.
David and his siblings (and many cousins) are mentioned in the 18 Mar 1885 Staunton Spectator, Vol. 62, #27, Augusta Co. Circuit Court in James Y. McCutchan vs Peggy McCutchan el al (including the Strains through David's mother). Elizabeth Craig McCutchan died in 1884, the widow of Charles C. McCutchan (died 1862) had land to distribute in her will. Charles is the brother of our kin, James McCutchan. It's in Chancery for the sale of Elizabeth McCutchan's estate, to be divided by her heirs. Photo of clipping is on his sister Susan's memorial site. There are more documents in Augusta Co. Chancery records.
24 Mar 1886 Dr. D.E.Strain put up (room and board) a Scottish boy named Hugh Willie, 18, from the N.Y Children's Aid Society per the Staunton Spectator of same date.
The 27 Apr 1887 issue of the Staunton Spectator under Republican Ticket in Rockbridge: At the Republican Convention held in Lexington on Monday of last week the following county ticket was nominated: County Treasurer: D.E. Strain.
1888: Walker's Greek. Pursuant to a call for District Convention to elect delegates to the Congressional Convention that meets in Lexington Sept. 6th to nominate a candidate for Congress, the republicans of Walker's Creek Distriot met at Crawford's School House on Saturday, Aug. 18th, 1888. W. Hank Shaw chairman of the district called the meeting to order and nominated Dr. D. E. Strain as chairman. The following were! elected as delegates with 1/4 vote each The distiict being entitled to but onejVote in the convention : Delegates. W. P. Sandridge, D. E. Strain, W. Agner, W. Hank Shaw. Delegates instructed to vote for the nomination of Hon. Jacob Yost for Congress. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 24 Aug 1888.
Nov 1889: Dr. D.E. Strain was a pallbearer at the large funeral of Zachariah Johnston Walker (1834 - 8 Nov 1889 ) and his wife Betty, who were both slain by an employee. Dr. Strain attended his wounds which were fatal. According to DM who lived with Dr. Strain's daughter Eva in her final 9 years, "Uncle David Strain was there at the trial, and when the shooting started, he jumped out of the second story window."
1890: Real Estate Transfers: D. E. Strain to H. S. and J. C. Beard, 31 acres and 153 poles on Moffett's Creek. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 8 May 1890.
16 May 1894, Dr. Strain extracted most of the gun shot in Mrs. J. B. Smiley and her two children. They were stuck by bird shot when Mr. J. B. Smiley's gun, sitting in a corner was accidentally knocked over by one of his children. Staunton Spectator of same date. Staunton Spectator of same date.
6 Nov 1895: "Dr. D. E. Strain's Residence Burned. The residence of Dr. D. E. Strain at Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, with portions of the furniture, &c, was burned last Thursday morning. A special to the News says: "Several gold watches were burned and other valuables belonging to relatives who were visiting them at the time. Strange to say the L (ell) was saved by the neighbors who had gathered to give aid in any way they could. The property was insured in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company for $1,300. $1,000. for the house and $300 on the contents. The fire, it is supposed, caught from the roof as the chimneys were being burnt out at the time." Staunton Spectator of same date. There was a longer article in another unnamed paper about it with more details. Cousin Paul E Brown's mother, Dr. Strain's niece was staying there at the time and lost everything. He supplied the article in an unknown local newspaper (see it on son John Madison Strain's attached site), kindly shared by cousin MarthaBWS.
3 Feb 1895, Two tramps a few nights ago, stole Dr. Strain's valuable saddle and a neighbor's 2 horses. Staunton Spectator.
28 Aug 1897, "Struck by Lightning. Lexington, Va, Aug. 27. - (Special) - The barns of Dr. D. E. Strain and Mr. Henry P. Mitchell, near Brownsburg, were struck by lightning during a rainstorm yesterday evening between 6 and 7 o'clock and with their contents, were entirely consumed. The barns were about two miles apart, and with their contents were insured for $1,000 in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company." Roanoke Times of same date.
2 Sep 1897, "Lightning Freaks. Last Tuesday evening, about dark…. the newly erected barn of Dr. Eldred Strain… was also struck by lightning and consumed. A peculiarity of the lightning's work is that when the buildings were struck there was not a cloud in sight. The flash that did the damage darted from a clear sky." Staunton Spectator of same date.
On the 1900 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found Physician ELDRED Strain, 71, Mar 1829; married 44 years to wife Margaret J., 62, Apr 1838, had 5 kids, all living: single dau Eva, 38, Sep 1861 and single son & farmer John, 35, Nov 1862, all Virginia born.
Mr and Mrs. Seebert from Kerr's creek, and Mrs. Samuel McCorkle from above Lexington, are visiting Dr.-and Mrs. D. E. Strain near here. Dr. and Mrs. Strain are the parents of Mis. Seebert and Mrs. McCorkle. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 31 May 1900.
27 Aug 1902, Hon. George Dabney Gray, died in Culpeper, Virginia. His wife, Charlotte Caroline was a Rockbridge native and the daughter of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. who "lived on and owned the farm now belonging to Dr. D. E. Strain near Brownsburg." Her sister Miss Mary G. Johnston resides in Lexington. (Dr. Strain's daughter in law, Evelyn is related to the Johnstons.) Lexington Gazette on this date.
1 Dec 1902, "Brownsburg. Gazette Correspondence, Dec. 1, Dr. D.E. Strain has about completed the addition of a second story to the ell of his house, which will be a great improvement." Lexington Gazette dated 3 Dec 1902.
He is on the 1850 to 1900 Virginia Federal Censuses. At one time he was a Deacon at New Monmouth Church. Dr. Strain met his future wife at New Monmouth Church (DEMcC). He later attended New Providence Presbyterian Church and even taught Sunday School classes there. It's believed he was kicked out of the church over making alcohol, but I haven't seen the church records to verify it but it was obviously settled, as he is buried there, along with his parents and siblings, children John and Eva, etc.
Children John and Eva were the last to reside in Dr. Strain's home. Some time after son John died in 1933, daughter Lula D S McCorkle's son Eldred, wife Jane and son Dave moved in to care for Eva. She was an interesting gal. She died in 1939 and they left in about 1941 with lots of memories and Eva's stories to share.
Included in photos on this site, is a 1908 land survey for Ashabel G. Beard showing the land of his David's father (died 1854), that went to his 4 sons and ended with 2 sons: James and David, Jr (AKA Dr. David E.) and following their passing, to James wife Eglantine N. Strain and Dr David's unmarried daughter Eva Strain. It's all across from New Providence Church. The Northern part shows land that was "once Dr. Strain's" including a lot that went to his daughter Eva. This is the land he resided on during the Civil War when soldiers came to his home for mending.
In the 1990's, his last home was falling apart (exposed roof, etc.) on Route 252, 1 mile north of Brownsburg on the west side of the road. The current owner shared he was only interested in the land for his cattle. I understand it's received some maintenance since then. :) It was formerly owned by Zachariah Johnston, Jr., kin to his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn Moffett Strain. The unique fireplace on the first floor was stunning with wonderful detail. The main road was cut through his property, so the home is close to the road now, flanked by 2 large trees. I understand he used to have music and dances at this house. A true Renaissance man.
Cousins have possessions from his home: a black leather medical bag, horsehair sofa, wood medical cabinet, marble topped side table, oak shaving mirror, old painted mantel clock, an elegant desk with a tall built on bookcase with glass panes, 3 large pencil drawn sketches of 2 of his brothers (James and Samuel) and himself, diaries 1900, 1902, 1903 & 1904, all say compliments from a medical supplier, "M.J. Breitenbach Co., NYC Year Book" (with little details, often included weather - a farmer to the end) and his medical records book. I have his old family album (carte de visites) or possibly his father's. He wrote his known Strain family history on the back of an 1899 calendar page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
Some diary entries: 2 Aug 1903: Cloudy-light rain last nyt. David & Evalin here. 3 Aug 1903: Cloudy & rain last night - coffee & Benson plowing . Rev. Jones & wife here from St. Johns - 15 3/4 dys (or ?) Coffee to above date credit on Book, 11.70. On 29 Dec 1900: Shot mad steer today - second one I've lost with Hyampheovine (? hard to read). On 31 Dec 1900: Another steer not eating today (Looks like he was growing coffee. Benson worker on the farm.) His medical records book has several recipes. One says 1858 & 59, Diphtheria (or Malignant sore throat) and RX Recipe for Dropsy is on the next page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
9 Nov 1904, Dr. Strain's son David and wife were called by the "extreme illness" of his dad, per the Lexington Gazette.
Dr. David E. Strain is listed in the Directory of Deceased American Physicians, 1804 to 1929, death date 26 Nov 1904 in Brownsburg, Virginia, type of practice: Allopath, JAMA citation: 43:1805 (Note: Allopath meaning he practiced conventional medicine (allopathy).
Dr. David E. Strain, (Special to the Times Dispatch) Lexington, Virginia., Nov. 26 - Mr. David E. Strain died this morning at his home near Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, aged 75 years. Death was due to a general breaking down. Dr. Strain was educated at Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, and had practiced medicine for many years in Rockbridge. He is survived by his wife, who was a Miss Dunlap, of Rockbridge, and five children, among them Mr. D. E. Strain, of Lexington. Times Dispatch, #16, 699, dated 27 Nov 1904. It also ran in the Staunton Spectator and Vindicator, dated 2 Dec 1904.
30 Nov 1904, "Death of Dr. D. E. Strain, Dr. D. E. Strain a well known physician of Rockbridge, died at his home near Brownsburg last Saturday morning after an illness of nearly a year, occasioned by advancing age. He was in his 76th year, the date of his birth being March 27, 1829. The funeral took place Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock from his late home, followed by interment in New Providence church burying-ground. Rev. J. M. S__der, pastor of the Reformed church at Newport of which Dr. Strain was an elder, officiated, assisted by Rev. Dr. G. A. Wilson, a pastor of New Providence Presbyterian church. Dr. Strain was a son of Mr. David Strain, deceased of the New Providence neighborhood. He was educated at the University of Virginia and at the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. JM College was then a more prestigious school. After graduation he began the practice of his profession on Kerr's Creek. Later he located in the neighborhood of Brownsburg, and his whole professional life was spent among the people of his native county. As a physician he was successful and he was held in the highest esteem by those who knew him. He for a time during the Civil War was a member of the Home Guard. Dr. Strain married Miss Maggie Dunlap, daughter of the late Mr. Madison Dunlap of Kerr's Creek. She survives with five children -- Mrs. S. W. McCorkle of near Lexington, Mrs. C. T. Sebert (sic) of near Monmouth, Miss Eva L. Strain and Mr. John M. Strain, who resided with their parents, and Mr. David E. Strain of Lexington. Three sisters also survive - Mrs. George Hull of Mexico, Mo.; Mrs. Hassie Edmondson, widow of Mr. John Edmondson of Iowa City, Iowa; and Mrs. Emma Ramsey, widow of Dr. Ramsey of Richmond." 30 Nov 1904, Lexington Gazette, out of copyright.
The meaning of the acanthus leaves on his gravestone is "enduring life." The curly cue I suspect is part of a Corinthian column, often associated with the acanthus leaves. See gravestone transcription below.
Click on my photos on this site to read the captions. DO NOT REPRODUCE ANY TEXT OR PHOTOS on this page.
Came across an Ancestry Tree today 8-2018 that states Dr. David Eldred Strain (correct wife and birth year and place) died in "Hendricks, IN." His above obits state he died at his home in Brownsburg, Virginia.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved
His ancestral home of birth is across the road from New Providence Church, called Cloverdale Farm. Following his father's death, it was owned by all 4 sons and divided and sold to each other, until James owned it outright (follow the land deeds). His 2nd home was also on his father's extended property, just east of it, where he resided during the Civil War. This may have been his home that DM described as " that was the road that went in by the Wade's, you know [Beard Road]." (I think this is currently Route 726 in Raphine.( Sick and injured soldiers would walk to his home for care and stay for weeks, per his daughter Eva, who was born at the start of the war. His final "1780" home was purchased in Deed Book RR, p 9 on 19 Nov 1878 from the estate of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. (relative of his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn). It was across the street from Cloverdale Farm, on Rt. 252. The main road was moved to just in front of this house, which remains today (see photos).
He attended the University of Virginia in 1852-1853 (probably earlier also). In 1854, he graduated with a medical degree, from the Jefferson Medical College, now called Thomas Jefferson University, in Philadelphia. He was also a farmer. He had bad lungs (TB) and heart disease, preventing him from being drafted during the Civil War in 1862 and 1864. Regardless he joined the Home Guards in Rockbridge, as a Surgeon, mending the soldiers from his home. It is said he served in the Home Guards for the full 4 years. For military purposes, he was described as 5'10", with blue eyes, sandy hair, and a florid complexion.
See photos of copies of his original class cards shared by cousin MBS.
1) 3 of several class cards that "David E Strain of Virginia," received after passing his courses in 1853-1854. 1) Jefferson Medical College (later became Philadelphia College of Medicine) course 1853-54, Surgery. 2) Philadelphia School of Anatomy, 27 Oct 1853, by D Hayes Agnew, M.D. 3) Lectures on Operative Surgery by Henry H Smith, M.D. 27 Oct 1853.
2) David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867.
In 2007, cousin Dave McCorkle said: while Dr. Strain was in the Home Guard unit, he was fighting around Rockbridge Baths and up into Highland Co. at the end of the war. He had this funny looking blacksmith made sword he took with him, but had no idea who had it now. "They were all union sympathizers until they were attacked, then they were something else. Aunt Eva used to talk about they didn't have any food and what not, after this happened. The Union Soldiers took all their food and valuables in Lexington."
At one time he worked at the Western Lunatic Asylum AKA Western State Hospital in Staunton. Quite the entrepreneur, he sold whiskey, for which I have a receipt (photo) for 1200 gallons*. That's a lot of whiskey, perhaps for use for Civil War surgeries, in lieu of laudanum or along with other items he shipped and sold. He also was shipping groceries: flour, salt, oats, bacon, corn, seed, butter and lard to and from Richmond and Lynchburg, on the Virginia Central Railroad with his brother Samuel. In 1858 - Oct 1861 his company, Strain & Anderson signed notes in various amounts for money due for this business. By Dec 1861, Dr. Strain was purchasing medical supplies like cotton yard, spool cotton, caster oil, ink, potash, alum, turpentino, syringes, etc.
*The late merchant, Jos White's chancery records reveal he also had multiple large orders of whiskey, for his clients.
According to his daughter Eva (DM): he raised bees, made wine and whiskey (with the Clemmers). She also said the local medical doctors had him up before a medical hearing since his diphtheria patients survived. DM's father's family and other family members all contracted diphtheria and survived taking his treatment, when many were dying from the illness. "This thing [Dr. Strain's formula] has chlorine, I think, in it. But anyway, his patients didn't die, and there was some that thought he was practicing quackery because his patients didn't die. [Laugh] The medical profession has been through a lot. They did a lot of bleeding. Aunt Eva used to help him bleed people."
On the 1850 Dist. 51, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found him living with his parents: farmer David Strain, 55; Maria, 45; Susan, 22; student DAVID E., 20; farmer James, 19; farmer Samuel, 17; Elizabeth, 15; Eusebius, 13; Hastletine, 11 and Rebecca, 6, all Virginia born.
1852-53: David E Strain completed his first division in the school of medicine, at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was in the intermediate examination for the 1852-1853 session. The above certificate is dated 29 Jun 1853, and signed by William Wertenbaker, the faculty secretary and _?_ Howard, M.D., Prof Path Prac. ___ M.D. (hard to read cursive writing). Dr. Henry Howard (the only Howard I found at UVA, Findagrave #57253841) taught in the School of Medicine, 1839-1867 (see photo and read caption).
In James F Gayley, M.D.'s A History of the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, 1858, PA, p 57 lists 1854 graduate David E. Strain of Va.
On the 24 Jul 1860 5th District, Kerrs Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census. I found physician DAVID Strain, 31 with $3K in real estate and $5145 in personal property; M Jane Strain, 20; L Delila Strain, 3 and male medical student E Henderson, 23, all Virginia born. They lived close to Madison Dunlap's family.
27 Mar 1862, his brother Eusebius writes David a letter from Charlottesville, where he was serving in a hospital. He request a $50 loan and a watch. Discusses the war some and mentions he saw John Dunlap in Staunton. Could this have been David's brother in law, John McKee Dunlap, who died 1863 (full letter is in his brother's Findagrave bio)?
1 Feb 1864, D.E. Strain (Z.J. Walker, J.M. Steele, etc.) signed an agreement with other Rockbridge Co. physicians that they would use discretion in making charges against those persons whose circumstances have suffered due to the war. Medicine in the 19th Century, Wyndham B. Blanton, MD, 1933, p 391.
On the 1870 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found physician D.E. STRAIN, 41; Mag J, 30; Lula D, 13; Eva L, 8; John M, 5 Martha M, 2 and at home Lucinda Payne (unknown), 20, all Virginia born.
19 Nov 1878 "Zachariah J. Culton, Executor of Zachariah Johnson (sic), sold his land to Dr. D.E. Strain. Deed Book "RR" page 9." David Beard is believed to be the original 1780 home builder, purchased it 6 Nov 1739 from Benjamin Borden. He sold it to Zachariah Johnston, Jr. 6 Mar 1799, DB B, p 345.
On the 1880 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia, I found farmer D. E. STRAIN, 51; wife Margaret J. 45; son/dau: teacher Eva L. 18; John M., 15; Mattie M., 12 and David E., 7 plus Susan Hicks, 11 (says 111, who was also in school), all Virginia born. D.E. Strain was Susan's guardian. His brother James, nearby also had two young Hicks children, Susan and William.
20 Mar 1883, Staunton Spectator: Western Lunatic Asylum elected officers at the board meeting, including first time serving, Dr. Strain as the 2nd Assistant. He was filling in for the late Dr. Pendleton. "Dr. Strain is the physician who suspected that the poison which killed the patients at the Asylum was aconitine." The 27 Feb 1883 Staunton Spectator reports the poisoning incident where 5 patients died and 4 survived following taking their medicine. Dr Strain was one of several Doctors on duty. There are many articles about the Asylum poisoning in the papers as it went to court. Dr. Strain and many doctors testified. Dr. Strain was nominated for 2nd Assistant Physician position at the Asylum per the 22 Apr 1884 issue of the Staunton Spectator.
David and his siblings (and many cousins) are mentioned in the 18 Mar 1885 Staunton Spectator, Vol. 62, #27, Augusta Co. Circuit Court in James Y. McCutchan vs Peggy McCutchan el al (including the Strains through David's mother). Elizabeth Craig McCutchan died in 1884, the widow of Charles C. McCutchan (died 1862) had land to distribute in her will. Charles is the brother of our kin, James McCutchan. It's in Chancery for the sale of Elizabeth McCutchan's estate, to be divided by her heirs. Photo of clipping is on his sister Susan's memorial site. There are more documents in Augusta Co. Chancery records.
24 Mar 1886 Dr. D.E.Strain put up (room and board) a Scottish boy named Hugh Willie, 18, from the N.Y Children's Aid Society per the Staunton Spectator of same date.
The 27 Apr 1887 issue of the Staunton Spectator under Republican Ticket in Rockbridge: At the Republican Convention held in Lexington on Monday of last week the following county ticket was nominated: County Treasurer: D.E. Strain.
1888: Walker's Greek. Pursuant to a call for District Convention to elect delegates to the Congressional Convention that meets in Lexington Sept. 6th to nominate a candidate for Congress, the republicans of Walker's Creek Distriot met at Crawford's School House on Saturday, Aug. 18th, 1888. W. Hank Shaw chairman of the district called the meeting to order and nominated Dr. D. E. Strain as chairman. The following were! elected as delegates with 1/4 vote each The distiict being entitled to but onejVote in the convention : Delegates. W. P. Sandridge, D. E. Strain, W. Agner, W. Hank Shaw. Delegates instructed to vote for the nomination of Hon. Jacob Yost for Congress. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 24 Aug 1888.
Nov 1889: Dr. D.E. Strain was a pallbearer at the large funeral of Zachariah Johnston Walker (1834 - 8 Nov 1889 ) and his wife Betty, who were both slain by an employee. Dr. Strain attended his wounds which were fatal. According to DM who lived with Dr. Strain's daughter Eva in her final 9 years, "Uncle David Strain was there at the trial, and when the shooting started, he jumped out of the second story window."
1890: Real Estate Transfers: D. E. Strain to H. S. and J. C. Beard, 31 acres and 153 poles on Moffett's Creek. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 8 May 1890.
16 May 1894, Dr. Strain extracted most of the gun shot in Mrs. J. B. Smiley and her two children. They were stuck by bird shot when Mr. J. B. Smiley's gun, sitting in a corner was accidentally knocked over by one of his children. Staunton Spectator of same date. Staunton Spectator of same date.
6 Nov 1895: "Dr. D. E. Strain's Residence Burned. The residence of Dr. D. E. Strain at Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, with portions of the furniture, &c, was burned last Thursday morning. A special to the News says: "Several gold watches were burned and other valuables belonging to relatives who were visiting them at the time. Strange to say the L (ell) was saved by the neighbors who had gathered to give aid in any way they could. The property was insured in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company for $1,300. $1,000. for the house and $300 on the contents. The fire, it is supposed, caught from the roof as the chimneys were being burnt out at the time." Staunton Spectator of same date. There was a longer article in another unnamed paper about it with more details. Cousin Paul E Brown's mother, Dr. Strain's niece was staying there at the time and lost everything. He supplied the article in an unknown local newspaper (see it on son John Madison Strain's attached site), kindly shared by cousin MarthaBWS.
3 Feb 1895, Two tramps a few nights ago, stole Dr. Strain's valuable saddle and a neighbor's 2 horses. Staunton Spectator.
28 Aug 1897, "Struck by Lightning. Lexington, Va, Aug. 27. - (Special) - The barns of Dr. D. E. Strain and Mr. Henry P. Mitchell, near Brownsburg, were struck by lightning during a rainstorm yesterday evening between 6 and 7 o'clock and with their contents, were entirely consumed. The barns were about two miles apart, and with their contents were insured for $1,000 in the Rockbridge Mutual Insurance Company." Roanoke Times of same date.
2 Sep 1897, "Lightning Freaks. Last Tuesday evening, about dark…. the newly erected barn of Dr. Eldred Strain… was also struck by lightning and consumed. A peculiarity of the lightning's work is that when the buildings were struck there was not a cloud in sight. The flash that did the damage darted from a clear sky." Staunton Spectator of same date.
On the 1900 Walker's Creek, Rockbridge Co., Virginia census, I found Physician ELDRED Strain, 71, Mar 1829; married 44 years to wife Margaret J., 62, Apr 1838, had 5 kids, all living: single dau Eva, 38, Sep 1861 and single son & farmer John, 35, Nov 1862, all Virginia born.
Mr and Mrs. Seebert from Kerr's creek, and Mrs. Samuel McCorkle from above Lexington, are visiting Dr.-and Mrs. D. E. Strain near here. Dr. and Mrs. Strain are the parents of Mis. Seebert and Mrs. McCorkle. Per the Rockbridge County News dated 31 May 1900.
27 Aug 1902, Hon. George Dabney Gray, died in Culpeper, Virginia. His wife, Charlotte Caroline was a Rockbridge native and the daughter of Zachariah Johnston, Jr. who "lived on and owned the farm now belonging to Dr. D. E. Strain near Brownsburg." Her sister Miss Mary G. Johnston resides in Lexington. (Dr. Strain's daughter in law, Evelyn is related to the Johnstons.) Lexington Gazette on this date.
1 Dec 1902, "Brownsburg. Gazette Correspondence, Dec. 1, Dr. D.E. Strain has about completed the addition of a second story to the ell of his house, which will be a great improvement." Lexington Gazette dated 3 Dec 1902.
He is on the 1850 to 1900 Virginia Federal Censuses. At one time he was a Deacon at New Monmouth Church. Dr. Strain met his future wife at New Monmouth Church (DEMcC). He later attended New Providence Presbyterian Church and even taught Sunday School classes there. It's believed he was kicked out of the church over making alcohol, but I haven't seen the church records to verify it but it was obviously settled, as he is buried there, along with his parents and siblings, children John and Eva, etc.
Children John and Eva were the last to reside in Dr. Strain's home. Some time after son John died in 1933, daughter Lula D S McCorkle's son Eldred, wife Jane and son Dave moved in to care for Eva. She was an interesting gal. She died in 1939 and they left in about 1941 with lots of memories and Eva's stories to share.
Included in photos on this site, is a 1908 land survey for Ashabel G. Beard showing the land of his David's father (died 1854), that went to his 4 sons and ended with 2 sons: James and David, Jr (AKA Dr. David E.) and following their passing, to James wife Eglantine N. Strain and Dr David's unmarried daughter Eva Strain. It's all across from New Providence Church. The Northern part shows land that was "once Dr. Strain's" including a lot that went to his daughter Eva. This is the land he resided on during the Civil War when soldiers came to his home for mending.
In the 1990's, his last home was falling apart (exposed roof, etc.) on Route 252, 1 mile north of Brownsburg on the west side of the road. The current owner shared he was only interested in the land for his cattle. I understand it's received some maintenance since then. :) It was formerly owned by Zachariah Johnston, Jr., kin to his daughter in law, Martha Evelyn Moffett Strain. The unique fireplace on the first floor was stunning with wonderful detail. The main road was cut through his property, so the home is close to the road now, flanked by 2 large trees. I understand he used to have music and dances at this house. A true Renaissance man.
Cousins have possessions from his home: a black leather medical bag, horsehair sofa, wood medical cabinet, marble topped side table, oak shaving mirror, old painted mantel clock, an elegant desk with a tall built on bookcase with glass panes, 3 large pencil drawn sketches of 2 of his brothers (James and Samuel) and himself, diaries 1900, 1902, 1903 & 1904, all say compliments from a medical supplier, "M.J. Breitenbach Co., NYC Year Book" (with little details, often included weather - a farmer to the end) and his medical records book. I have his old family album (carte de visites) or possibly his father's. He wrote his known Strain family history on the back of an 1899 calendar page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
Some diary entries: 2 Aug 1903: Cloudy-light rain last nyt. David & Evalin here. 3 Aug 1903: Cloudy & rain last night - coffee & Benson plowing . Rev. Jones & wife here from St. Johns - 15 3/4 dys (or ?) Coffee to above date credit on Book, 11.70. On 29 Dec 1900: Shot mad steer today - second one I've lost with Hyampheovine (? hard to read). On 31 Dec 1900: Another steer not eating today (Looks like he was growing coffee. Benson worker on the farm.) His medical records book has several recipes. One says 1858 & 59, Diphtheria (or Malignant sore throat) and RX Recipe for Dropsy is on the next page. See photo (DO NOT REPRODUCE).
9 Nov 1904, Dr. Strain's son David and wife were called by the "extreme illness" of his dad, per the Lexington Gazette.
Dr. David E. Strain is listed in the Directory of Deceased American Physicians, 1804 to 1929, death date 26 Nov 1904 in Brownsburg, Virginia, type of practice: Allopath, JAMA citation: 43:1805 (Note: Allopath meaning he practiced conventional medicine (allopathy).
Dr. David E. Strain, (Special to the Times Dispatch) Lexington, Virginia., Nov. 26 - Mr. David E. Strain died this morning at his home near Brownsburg, Rockbridge county, aged 75 years. Death was due to a general breaking down. Dr. Strain was educated at Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, and had practiced medicine for many years in Rockbridge. He is survived by his wife, who was a Miss Dunlap, of Rockbridge, and five children, among them Mr. D. E. Strain, of Lexington. Times Dispatch, #16, 699, dated 27 Nov 1904. It also ran in the Staunton Spectator and Vindicator, dated 2 Dec 1904.
30 Nov 1904, "Death of Dr. D. E. Strain, Dr. D. E. Strain a well known physician of Rockbridge, died at his home near Brownsburg last Saturday morning after an illness of nearly a year, occasioned by advancing age. He was in his 76th year, the date of his birth being March 27, 1829. The funeral took place Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock from his late home, followed by interment in New Providence church burying-ground. Rev. J. M. S__der, pastor of the Reformed church at Newport of which Dr. Strain was an elder, officiated, assisted by Rev. Dr. G. A. Wilson, a pastor of New Providence Presbyterian church. Dr. Strain was a son of Mr. David Strain, deceased of the New Providence neighborhood. He was educated at the University of Virginia and at the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. JM College was then a more prestigious school. After graduation he began the practice of his profession on Kerr's Creek. Later he located in the neighborhood of Brownsburg, and his whole professional life was spent among the people of his native county. As a physician he was successful and he was held in the highest esteem by those who knew him. He for a time during the Civil War was a member of the Home Guard. Dr. Strain married Miss Maggie Dunlap, daughter of the late Mr. Madison Dunlap of Kerr's Creek. She survives with five children -- Mrs. S. W. McCorkle of near Lexington, Mrs. C. T. Sebert (sic) of near Monmouth, Miss Eva L. Strain and Mr. John M. Strain, who resided with their parents, and Mr. David E. Strain of Lexington. Three sisters also survive - Mrs. George Hull of Mexico, Mo.; Mrs. Hassie Edmondson, widow of Mr. John Edmondson of Iowa City, Iowa; and Mrs. Emma Ramsey, widow of Dr. Ramsey of Richmond." 30 Nov 1904, Lexington Gazette, out of copyright.
The meaning of the acanthus leaves on his gravestone is "enduring life." The curly cue I suspect is part of a Corinthian column, often associated with the acanthus leaves. See gravestone transcription below.
Click on my photos on this site to read the captions. DO NOT REPRODUCE ANY TEXT OR PHOTOS on this page.
Came across an Ancestry Tree today 8-2018 that states Dr. David Eldred Strain (correct wife and birth year and place) died in "Hendricks, IN." His above obits state he died at his home in Brownsburg, Virginia.
Bio researched and written by LSP, all rights reserved
Inscription
STRAIN
D. E. STRAIN M.D.
MARCH 27 1829 - NOV. 25, 1904
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HIS WIFE
M. J. DUNLAP
SEPT. 30, 1838 - NOV. 3, 1920
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MARRIED AUG. 26, 1856
Family Members
Siblings
