Ethel was the daughter of John Albert Sidney Tuesburg and Bertha Arilla Cox, who married on 24 Jan 1898 in Livingston, Illinois. I found eight children for them—Arthur Cox (12 Oct 1898 – 25 Dec 1932, m. Myrna Warren); Claude Russell (10 Dec 1900 – 25 Oct 1962, m. Pauline Alcorn); Gladys Annetta (22 Oct 1902 – 13 Jun 1973, m. John Edward Timm); Ethel Lucille (20 Aug 1904 – 31 Oct 1956, m. Hobart Earl Baker); Madge T. (8 May 1907 – 18 Jul 1987, m. Carl Everett Zeek); Robert Wade (19 Apr 1913 – 12 Sep 1972, m. Anne Thiess); Helen Myra (13 Mar 1915 – Oct 1981, m. Raymond W. Pittenger); and Hulda Elizabeth (23 Apr 1916 – 23 Feb 1920).
With a year and a few months after son Arthur was born, the family left Illinois and moved to Indiana. The 1900 Census placed them in Washington Twp., Starke Co., Indiana, likely in Ober. John Tuesburg, 25, was farming for a living. Bertha, 24, reported that she had only had one child. There with his parents was 1-year-old son Arthur.
By the fall of 1902, they had left Ober and were living in La Crosse, La Porte Co., Indiana. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 7 Jan 1904 p. 8) “Glen Cox and wife of Ober, visited his brother-in-law John Tuesburg and family at Lacrosse.” But it seems they began to hanker for their quiet life in Ober. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 2 Mar 1905 p. 8) “John Tuesburg and family have moved back to Ober.”
And though they were living in Ober., it seems that Ethel’s father was still living and working in La Porte six days a week. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 15 Mar 1906 p. 5) “John Tuesburg visited at home over Sunday and returned to work at LaPorte Monday morning.”
The 1910 Census enumerator caught up with the family in North Bend Twp., Starke County. John, 35, was busy with the farm. Bertha, 34, reported that she had had five children by then. There with their parents were Arthur, 11, Claud, 9, Gladys, 7, Ethel, 5, and 2-year-old Madge.
About two weeks after that 1910 Census was taken, the Tuesburg family had quite a scare. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 19 May 1910 p. 1) “An Auto Burned. While John Tuesburg and family were driving along the road east of Bass lake in their Cadillac a gasoline pipe burst, and the fluid dropped down on the muffler which was at a white heat, causing the gasoline to explode. Within a few minutes the car was a pile of ashes and scrap iron. The riders were all slightly scorched.—Knox Republican.” YIKES!
The family got a lighting upgrade in 1912. (The Culver Citizen – 31 Oct 1912) “John Tuesburg and W.W. Osborn are the latest householders to have acetelyne lighting plants installed in their farm homes at and near Ober.”
The family was still in North Bend Township when the 1920 Census takers hit the streets with their oversized notebooks. John Tuesburg, 44, was again noted as a farmer. Bertha, 44, had a house and eight children to keep up with—Arthur, 21 and going to college, Claude, 19, Gladys, 17, Ethel, 15, Madge, 12, Robert, 6, Helen, 4, and 3-year-old Hulda. Bertha is my hero.
By 1927, Cupid’s arrow had found its way to Ethel’s heart. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 16 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Miss Ethel Tuesberg (sic) and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, were Sunday visitors at the home of the latter’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Baker.”
Ethel and Hobart made it official on 19 Nov 1927. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 23 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Baker—Tuesburg. The marriage of Miss Ethel Tuesburg of South Bend and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, was solemnized Sunday, November 20th at the First M. E. church, South Bend. The bride and groom are both well known in this community, having lived here for many years. They will make their home in Knox.”
A month after the wedding, Ethel and her family had another scare when Ethel’s sister vanished into thin air. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 23 Dec 1927 p. 13) “Disappearance of Epworth Hospital Nurse Puzzles Her Friends. NO REASON GIVEN FOR YOUNG WOMAN’S ACT. INSTITUTION OFFICIALS SAY RECORD IS SPLENDID. STARTED FOR LAPORTE. No Romance Appears to Enter Into Case, Investigators Assert; Description on Leaving Building is Given. Leaving no trace that can be found by the police, Miss Madge Tuesburg, age 20, a student nurse in the Epworth hospital for the last three years, disappeared Monday afternoon, after leaving the hospital ostensibly to go to LaPrte, Ind., it was revealed today. According to the report made by her father John Tuesburg of Hanna, Ind., formerly of Culver, Ind., the young woman left the hospital at about 3:15 o’clock Monday afternoon, but since that time nothing is known of her movements. Hospital Officials Puzzled. Hospital officials, while not ready to say they fear some misfortune may have befallen her, are at a loss to understand why she should wish to disappear of her own accord. Her record is splendid, it is stated, and she appears to have been more than usually interested in her work and happy. Neither can members of her family assign a possible reason why she might wish to disappear. No romance seems to enter as a possibility in the case, inquiries developed this morning, according to investigators. Description is Given. When she left the hospital she was wearing a brown cloth coat with fur collar, a green hat, and tan oxfords. She carried a small black bag. She is described as being five feet six inches tall, weighing 150 pounds and as having dark brown hair and grey eyes. She is of slightly heavy build.” I tried to find a follow-up to this story, but Madge’s resurfacing must not have been newsworthy. But resurface she did, so happy ending to the story.
By the spring of 1928, Ethel was getting ready for baby. Two months before the arrival of little Betty Lou, Ethel underwent surgery, for what I don’t know. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 2 May 1928 p. 2) “Mrs. Hobart Baker who has been in the John Baker home for the past two weeks recovering from a recent operation, returned to her home in Knox, Thursday.” Betty Lou (2 Jul 1928 – 1 Nov 1975) made her appearance two days before the Fourth of July on 2 Jul 1928.
The three of them appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 401 S. Pearl St. in Knox, Starke Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a salesman in a shoe store. Ethel, 26, was home with 1-year-old Betty.
The local papers featured dozens of clippings about the comings and goings of Mrs. Hobart Baker. Besides visits to family and friends, Ethel was involved in a few social groups that included a sewing club, card playing, the Wide Awake Class of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Ladies Aid Society of the Methodist Church, and the Eastern Star. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 27 Dec 1933 p. 2) “Four Chapters Honor Worthy Grand Matron. One hundred thirty-five members of the Argos, Bourbon, Bremen, and Culver chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star honed the grand worthy matron, Mrs. Rose Malcolm, of Indianapolis at a lovely dinner given in the Christian church dining room in Argos, Wednesday evening, Dec. 20. The Easter Star colors were chosen for the decorations of the tables…Two new members, Mrs. Hobart Baker of Culver and Mrs. Swogger of Argos were initiated in an impressive ritualistic service in which the four lodges took part. Thirty-five members of the Culver chapter attended the affair.”
In 1937, the family had a narrow escape. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 6 Jan 1937 p. 1) “$500 Damage by Fire At Hobart Baker House. Fire of undetermined source resulted in between $450 and $500 damage at the Hobart Baker home at 4:00 a.m. today. It is believed that an overheated hot air pipe started the blaze, but at what location could not be determined. A hole was burned in the roof, and the kitchen, a clothes closet, and a quantity of clothing were damaged by the flames, smoke, and water.” (The Culver Citizen – Wed 13 Jan 1937 p. 16) “CARD OF THANKS. We wish to express our appreciation for the help of friends and neighbors and the prompt services of the Culver Fire Department at the fire which threatened our home last Wednesday morning. –Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker.”
Ethel stayed in close contact with her family. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 31 May 1939 p. 4) “Mr. and Mrs. John Tuesburg of LaCrosse and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tuesburg of Hannond, Ind., were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker Sunday.”
The 1940 Census caught up with the Bakers at 324 W. Washington St. in Culver, Marshall Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a house painter. Ethel, 36, was keeping house. Daughter Betty Lou, 11, was attending school.
Shortly after that enumeration, the family moved to a new residence. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 19 Jun 1940 p. 3) “The Hobart Baker family moved into the Ferrier apartment, Monday. The Harold Robinsons recently purchased the Baker house and are getting it ready for Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eckman to occupy.”
On his 16 Feb 1942 WWII registration, Hobart Earl Baker, 38, reported that he was living on Harding Ct. in Culver, Indiana, and that he was unemployed. Wife Ethel was noted as that person who would always know his address. He was 5’ 10” tall, weighed 144 lbs. and had grey eyes, grey hair, and a light complexion.
About a year later, the family moved to South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana.
There was a happy occasion in 1947. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 19 Dec 1947 p. 29) “Ridgedale Presbyterian church was the scene Sunday afternoon of the marriage of Miss Betty Lou Baker and Richard N. Benko. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart E. Baker, 107 West Fairview avenue. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Benko, 1229 East Ewing avenue, are the parents of the bridgegroom.”
The 1950 Census, set to be released in 2022 will allow one final glimpse of Ethel and husband Hobart. After twenty-nine years together, death parted them, claiming Ethel on 31 Oct 1956 at age 52. Hobart lived another thirteen years before departing this earth on 31 Jul 1969 at age 66.
With a year and a few months after son Arthur was born, the family left Illinois and moved to Indiana. The 1900 Census placed them in Washington Twp., Starke Co., Indiana, likely in Ober. John Tuesburg, 25, was farming for a living. Bertha, 24, reported that she had only had one child. There with his parents was 1-year-old son Arthur.
By the fall of 1902, they had left Ober and were living in La Crosse, La Porte Co., Indiana. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 7 Jan 1904 p. 8) “Glen Cox and wife of Ober, visited his brother-in-law John Tuesburg and family at Lacrosse.” But it seems they began to hanker for their quiet life in Ober. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 2 Mar 1905 p. 8) “John Tuesburg and family have moved back to Ober.”
And though they were living in Ober., it seems that Ethel’s father was still living and working in La Porte six days a week. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 15 Mar 1906 p. 5) “John Tuesburg visited at home over Sunday and returned to work at LaPorte Monday morning.”
The 1910 Census enumerator caught up with the family in North Bend Twp., Starke County. John, 35, was busy with the farm. Bertha, 34, reported that she had had five children by then. There with their parents were Arthur, 11, Claud, 9, Gladys, 7, Ethel, 5, and 2-year-old Madge.
About two weeks after that 1910 Census was taken, the Tuesburg family had quite a scare. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 19 May 1910 p. 1) “An Auto Burned. While John Tuesburg and family were driving along the road east of Bass lake in their Cadillac a gasoline pipe burst, and the fluid dropped down on the muffler which was at a white heat, causing the gasoline to explode. Within a few minutes the car was a pile of ashes and scrap iron. The riders were all slightly scorched.—Knox Republican.” YIKES!
The family got a lighting upgrade in 1912. (The Culver Citizen – 31 Oct 1912) “John Tuesburg and W.W. Osborn are the latest householders to have acetelyne lighting plants installed in their farm homes at and near Ober.”
The family was still in North Bend Township when the 1920 Census takers hit the streets with their oversized notebooks. John Tuesburg, 44, was again noted as a farmer. Bertha, 44, had a house and eight children to keep up with—Arthur, 21 and going to college, Claude, 19, Gladys, 17, Ethel, 15, Madge, 12, Robert, 6, Helen, 4, and 3-year-old Hulda. Bertha is my hero.
By 1927, Cupid’s arrow had found its way to Ethel’s heart. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 16 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Miss Ethel Tuesberg (sic) and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, were Sunday visitors at the home of the latter’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Baker.”
Ethel and Hobart made it official on 19 Nov 1927. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 23 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Baker—Tuesburg. The marriage of Miss Ethel Tuesburg of South Bend and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, was solemnized Sunday, November 20th at the First M. E. church, South Bend. The bride and groom are both well known in this community, having lived here for many years. They will make their home in Knox.”
A month after the wedding, Ethel and her family had another scare when Ethel’s sister vanished into thin air. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 23 Dec 1927 p. 13) “Disappearance of Epworth Hospital Nurse Puzzles Her Friends. NO REASON GIVEN FOR YOUNG WOMAN’S ACT. INSTITUTION OFFICIALS SAY RECORD IS SPLENDID. STARTED FOR LAPORTE. No Romance Appears to Enter Into Case, Investigators Assert; Description on Leaving Building is Given. Leaving no trace that can be found by the police, Miss Madge Tuesburg, age 20, a student nurse in the Epworth hospital for the last three years, disappeared Monday afternoon, after leaving the hospital ostensibly to go to LaPrte, Ind., it was revealed today. According to the report made by her father John Tuesburg of Hanna, Ind., formerly of Culver, Ind., the young woman left the hospital at about 3:15 o’clock Monday afternoon, but since that time nothing is known of her movements. Hospital Officials Puzzled. Hospital officials, while not ready to say they fear some misfortune may have befallen her, are at a loss to understand why she should wish to disappear of her own accord. Her record is splendid, it is stated, and she appears to have been more than usually interested in her work and happy. Neither can members of her family assign a possible reason why she might wish to disappear. No romance seems to enter as a possibility in the case, inquiries developed this morning, according to investigators. Description is Given. When she left the hospital she was wearing a brown cloth coat with fur collar, a green hat, and tan oxfords. She carried a small black bag. She is described as being five feet six inches tall, weighing 150 pounds and as having dark brown hair and grey eyes. She is of slightly heavy build.” I tried to find a follow-up to this story, but Madge’s resurfacing must not have been newsworthy. But resurface she did, so happy ending to the story.
By the spring of 1928, Ethel was getting ready for baby. Two months before the arrival of little Betty Lou, Ethel underwent surgery, for what I don’t know. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 2 May 1928 p. 2) “Mrs. Hobart Baker who has been in the John Baker home for the past two weeks recovering from a recent operation, returned to her home in Knox, Thursday.” Betty Lou (2 Jul 1928 – 1 Nov 1975) made her appearance two days before the Fourth of July on 2 Jul 1928.
The three of them appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 401 S. Pearl St. in Knox, Starke Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a salesman in a shoe store. Ethel, 26, was home with 1-year-old Betty.
The local papers featured dozens of clippings about the comings and goings of Mrs. Hobart Baker. Besides visits to family and friends, Ethel was involved in a few social groups that included a sewing club, card playing, the Wide Awake Class of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Ladies Aid Society of the Methodist Church, and the Eastern Star. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 27 Dec 1933 p. 2) “Four Chapters Honor Worthy Grand Matron. One hundred thirty-five members of the Argos, Bourbon, Bremen, and Culver chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star honed the grand worthy matron, Mrs. Rose Malcolm, of Indianapolis at a lovely dinner given in the Christian church dining room in Argos, Wednesday evening, Dec. 20. The Easter Star colors were chosen for the decorations of the tables…Two new members, Mrs. Hobart Baker of Culver and Mrs. Swogger of Argos were initiated in an impressive ritualistic service in which the four lodges took part. Thirty-five members of the Culver chapter attended the affair.”
In 1937, the family had a narrow escape. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 6 Jan 1937 p. 1) “$500 Damage by Fire At Hobart Baker House. Fire of undetermined source resulted in between $450 and $500 damage at the Hobart Baker home at 4:00 a.m. today. It is believed that an overheated hot air pipe started the blaze, but at what location could not be determined. A hole was burned in the roof, and the kitchen, a clothes closet, and a quantity of clothing were damaged by the flames, smoke, and water.” (The Culver Citizen – Wed 13 Jan 1937 p. 16) “CARD OF THANKS. We wish to express our appreciation for the help of friends and neighbors and the prompt services of the Culver Fire Department at the fire which threatened our home last Wednesday morning. –Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker.”
Ethel stayed in close contact with her family. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 31 May 1939 p. 4) “Mr. and Mrs. John Tuesburg of LaCrosse and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tuesburg of Hannond, Ind., were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker Sunday.”
The 1940 Census caught up with the Bakers at 324 W. Washington St. in Culver, Marshall Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a house painter. Ethel, 36, was keeping house. Daughter Betty Lou, 11, was attending school.
Shortly after that enumeration, the family moved to a new residence. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 19 Jun 1940 p. 3) “The Hobart Baker family moved into the Ferrier apartment, Monday. The Harold Robinsons recently purchased the Baker house and are getting it ready for Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eckman to occupy.”
On his 16 Feb 1942 WWII registration, Hobart Earl Baker, 38, reported that he was living on Harding Ct. in Culver, Indiana, and that he was unemployed. Wife Ethel was noted as that person who would always know his address. He was 5’ 10” tall, weighed 144 lbs. and had grey eyes, grey hair, and a light complexion.
About a year later, the family moved to South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana.
There was a happy occasion in 1947. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 19 Dec 1947 p. 29) “Ridgedale Presbyterian church was the scene Sunday afternoon of the marriage of Miss Betty Lou Baker and Richard N. Benko. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart E. Baker, 107 West Fairview avenue. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Benko, 1229 East Ewing avenue, are the parents of the bridgegroom.”
The 1950 Census, set to be released in 2022 will allow one final glimpse of Ethel and husband Hobart. After twenty-nine years together, death parted them, claiming Ethel on 31 Oct 1956 at age 52. Hobart lived another thirteen years before departing this earth on 31 Jul 1969 at age 66.
Ethel was the daughter of John Albert Sidney Tuesburg and Bertha Arilla Cox, who married on 24 Jan 1898 in Livingston, Illinois. I found eight children for them—Arthur Cox (12 Oct 1898 – 25 Dec 1932, m. Myrna Warren); Claude Russell (10 Dec 1900 – 25 Oct 1962, m. Pauline Alcorn); Gladys Annetta (22 Oct 1902 – 13 Jun 1973, m. John Edward Timm); Ethel Lucille (20 Aug 1904 – 31 Oct 1956, m. Hobart Earl Baker); Madge T. (8 May 1907 – 18 Jul 1987, m. Carl Everett Zeek); Robert Wade (19 Apr 1913 – 12 Sep 1972, m. Anne Thiess); Helen Myra (13 Mar 1915 – Oct 1981, m. Raymond W. Pittenger); and Hulda Elizabeth (23 Apr 1916 – 23 Feb 1920).
With a year and a few months after son Arthur was born, the family left Illinois and moved to Indiana. The 1900 Census placed them in Washington Twp., Starke Co., Indiana, likely in Ober. John Tuesburg, 25, was farming for a living. Bertha, 24, reported that she had only had one child. There with his parents was 1-year-old son Arthur.
By the fall of 1902, they had left Ober and were living in La Crosse, La Porte Co., Indiana. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 7 Jan 1904 p. 8) “Glen Cox and wife of Ober, visited his brother-in-law John Tuesburg and family at Lacrosse.” But it seems they began to hanker for their quiet life in Ober. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 2 Mar 1905 p. 8) “John Tuesburg and family have moved back to Ober.”
And though they were living in Ober., it seems that Ethel’s father was still living and working in La Porte six days a week. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 15 Mar 1906 p. 5) “John Tuesburg visited at home over Sunday and returned to work at LaPorte Monday morning.”
The 1910 Census enumerator caught up with the family in North Bend Twp., Starke County. John, 35, was busy with the farm. Bertha, 34, reported that she had had five children by then. There with their parents were Arthur, 11, Claud, 9, Gladys, 7, Ethel, 5, and 2-year-old Madge.
About two weeks after that 1910 Census was taken, the Tuesburg family had quite a scare. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 19 May 1910 p. 1) “An Auto Burned. While John Tuesburg and family were driving along the road east of Bass lake in their Cadillac a gasoline pipe burst, and the fluid dropped down on the muffler which was at a white heat, causing the gasoline to explode. Within a few minutes the car was a pile of ashes and scrap iron. The riders were all slightly scorched.—Knox Republican.” YIKES!
The family got a lighting upgrade in 1912. (The Culver Citizen – 31 Oct 1912) “John Tuesburg and W.W. Osborn are the latest householders to have acetelyne lighting plants installed in their farm homes at and near Ober.”
The family was still in North Bend Township when the 1920 Census takers hit the streets with their oversized notebooks. John Tuesburg, 44, was again noted as a farmer. Bertha, 44, had a house and eight children to keep up with—Arthur, 21 and going to college, Claude, 19, Gladys, 17, Ethel, 15, Madge, 12, Robert, 6, Helen, 4, and 3-year-old Hulda. Bertha is my hero.
By 1927, Cupid’s arrow had found its way to Ethel’s heart. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 16 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Miss Ethel Tuesberg (sic) and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, were Sunday visitors at the home of the latter’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Baker.”
Ethel and Hobart made it official on 19 Nov 1927. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 23 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Baker—Tuesburg. The marriage of Miss Ethel Tuesburg of South Bend and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, was solemnized Sunday, November 20th at the First M. E. church, South Bend. The bride and groom are both well known in this community, having lived here for many years. They will make their home in Knox.”
A month after the wedding, Ethel and her family had another scare when Ethel’s sister vanished into thin air. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 23 Dec 1927 p. 13) “Disappearance of Epworth Hospital Nurse Puzzles Her Friends. NO REASON GIVEN FOR YOUNG WOMAN’S ACT. INSTITUTION OFFICIALS SAY RECORD IS SPLENDID. STARTED FOR LAPORTE. No Romance Appears to Enter Into Case, Investigators Assert; Description on Leaving Building is Given. Leaving no trace that can be found by the police, Miss Madge Tuesburg, age 20, a student nurse in the Epworth hospital for the last three years, disappeared Monday afternoon, after leaving the hospital ostensibly to go to LaPrte, Ind., it was revealed today. According to the report made by her father John Tuesburg of Hanna, Ind., formerly of Culver, Ind., the young woman left the hospital at about 3:15 o’clock Monday afternoon, but since that time nothing is known of her movements. Hospital Officials Puzzled. Hospital officials, while not ready to say they fear some misfortune may have befallen her, are at a loss to understand why she should wish to disappear of her own accord. Her record is splendid, it is stated, and she appears to have been more than usually interested in her work and happy. Neither can members of her family assign a possible reason why she might wish to disappear. No romance seems to enter as a possibility in the case, inquiries developed this morning, according to investigators. Description is Given. When she left the hospital she was wearing a brown cloth coat with fur collar, a green hat, and tan oxfords. She carried a small black bag. She is described as being five feet six inches tall, weighing 150 pounds and as having dark brown hair and grey eyes. She is of slightly heavy build.” I tried to find a follow-up to this story, but Madge’s resurfacing must not have been newsworthy. But resurface she did, so happy ending to the story.
By the spring of 1928, Ethel was getting ready for baby. Two months before the arrival of little Betty Lou, Ethel underwent surgery, for what I don’t know. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 2 May 1928 p. 2) “Mrs. Hobart Baker who has been in the John Baker home for the past two weeks recovering from a recent operation, returned to her home in Knox, Thursday.” Betty Lou (2 Jul 1928 – 1 Nov 1975) made her appearance two days before the Fourth of July on 2 Jul 1928.
The three of them appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 401 S. Pearl St. in Knox, Starke Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a salesman in a shoe store. Ethel, 26, was home with 1-year-old Betty.
The local papers featured dozens of clippings about the comings and goings of Mrs. Hobart Baker. Besides visits to family and friends, Ethel was involved in a few social groups that included a sewing club, card playing, the Wide Awake Class of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Ladies Aid Society of the Methodist Church, and the Eastern Star. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 27 Dec 1933 p. 2) “Four Chapters Honor Worthy Grand Matron. One hundred thirty-five members of the Argos, Bourbon, Bremen, and Culver chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star honed the grand worthy matron, Mrs. Rose Malcolm, of Indianapolis at a lovely dinner given in the Christian church dining room in Argos, Wednesday evening, Dec. 20. The Easter Star colors were chosen for the decorations of the tables…Two new members, Mrs. Hobart Baker of Culver and Mrs. Swogger of Argos were initiated in an impressive ritualistic service in which the four lodges took part. Thirty-five members of the Culver chapter attended the affair.”
In 1937, the family had a narrow escape. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 6 Jan 1937 p. 1) “$500 Damage by Fire At Hobart Baker House. Fire of undetermined source resulted in between $450 and $500 damage at the Hobart Baker home at 4:00 a.m. today. It is believed that an overheated hot air pipe started the blaze, but at what location could not be determined. A hole was burned in the roof, and the kitchen, a clothes closet, and a quantity of clothing were damaged by the flames, smoke, and water.” (The Culver Citizen – Wed 13 Jan 1937 p. 16) “CARD OF THANKS. We wish to express our appreciation for the help of friends and neighbors and the prompt services of the Culver Fire Department at the fire which threatened our home last Wednesday morning. –Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker.”
Ethel stayed in close contact with her family. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 31 May 1939 p. 4) “Mr. and Mrs. John Tuesburg of LaCrosse and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tuesburg of Hannond, Ind., were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker Sunday.”
The 1940 Census caught up with the Bakers at 324 W. Washington St. in Culver, Marshall Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a house painter. Ethel, 36, was keeping house. Daughter Betty Lou, 11, was attending school.
Shortly after that enumeration, the family moved to a new residence. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 19 Jun 1940 p. 3) “The Hobart Baker family moved into the Ferrier apartment, Monday. The Harold Robinsons recently purchased the Baker house and are getting it ready for Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eckman to occupy.”
On his 16 Feb 1942 WWII registration, Hobart Earl Baker, 38, reported that he was living on Harding Ct. in Culver, Indiana, and that he was unemployed. Wife Ethel was noted as that person who would always know his address. He was 5’ 10” tall, weighed 144 lbs. and had grey eyes, grey hair, and a light complexion.
About a year later, the family moved to South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana.
There was a happy occasion in 1947. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 19 Dec 1947 p. 29) “Ridgedale Presbyterian church was the scene Sunday afternoon of the marriage of Miss Betty Lou Baker and Richard N. Benko. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart E. Baker, 107 West Fairview avenue. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Benko, 1229 East Ewing avenue, are the parents of the bridgegroom.”
The 1950 Census, set to be released in 2022 will allow one final glimpse of Ethel and husband Hobart. After twenty-nine years together, death parted them, claiming Ethel on 31 Oct 1956 at age 52. Hobart lived another thirteen years before departing this earth on 31 Jul 1969 at age 66.
With a year and a few months after son Arthur was born, the family left Illinois and moved to Indiana. The 1900 Census placed them in Washington Twp., Starke Co., Indiana, likely in Ober. John Tuesburg, 25, was farming for a living. Bertha, 24, reported that she had only had one child. There with his parents was 1-year-old son Arthur.
By the fall of 1902, they had left Ober and were living in La Crosse, La Porte Co., Indiana. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 7 Jan 1904 p. 8) “Glen Cox and wife of Ober, visited his brother-in-law John Tuesburg and family at Lacrosse.” But it seems they began to hanker for their quiet life in Ober. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 2 Mar 1905 p. 8) “John Tuesburg and family have moved back to Ober.”
And though they were living in Ober., it seems that Ethel’s father was still living and working in La Porte six days a week. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 15 Mar 1906 p. 5) “John Tuesburg visited at home over Sunday and returned to work at LaPorte Monday morning.”
The 1910 Census enumerator caught up with the family in North Bend Twp., Starke County. John, 35, was busy with the farm. Bertha, 34, reported that she had had five children by then. There with their parents were Arthur, 11, Claud, 9, Gladys, 7, Ethel, 5, and 2-year-old Madge.
About two weeks after that 1910 Census was taken, the Tuesburg family had quite a scare. (The Culver Citizen – Thu 19 May 1910 p. 1) “An Auto Burned. While John Tuesburg and family were driving along the road east of Bass lake in their Cadillac a gasoline pipe burst, and the fluid dropped down on the muffler which was at a white heat, causing the gasoline to explode. Within a few minutes the car was a pile of ashes and scrap iron. The riders were all slightly scorched.—Knox Republican.” YIKES!
The family got a lighting upgrade in 1912. (The Culver Citizen – 31 Oct 1912) “John Tuesburg and W.W. Osborn are the latest householders to have acetelyne lighting plants installed in their farm homes at and near Ober.”
The family was still in North Bend Township when the 1920 Census takers hit the streets with their oversized notebooks. John Tuesburg, 44, was again noted as a farmer. Bertha, 44, had a house and eight children to keep up with—Arthur, 21 and going to college, Claude, 19, Gladys, 17, Ethel, 15, Madge, 12, Robert, 6, Helen, 4, and 3-year-old Hulda. Bertha is my hero.
By 1927, Cupid’s arrow had found its way to Ethel’s heart. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 16 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Miss Ethel Tuesberg (sic) and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, were Sunday visitors at the home of the latter’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Baker.”
Ethel and Hobart made it official on 19 Nov 1927. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 23 Nov 1927 p. 2) “Baker—Tuesburg. The marriage of Miss Ethel Tuesburg of South Bend and Mr. Hobart Baker of Knox, was solemnized Sunday, November 20th at the First M. E. church, South Bend. The bride and groom are both well known in this community, having lived here for many years. They will make their home in Knox.”
A month after the wedding, Ethel and her family had another scare when Ethel’s sister vanished into thin air. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 23 Dec 1927 p. 13) “Disappearance of Epworth Hospital Nurse Puzzles Her Friends. NO REASON GIVEN FOR YOUNG WOMAN’S ACT. INSTITUTION OFFICIALS SAY RECORD IS SPLENDID. STARTED FOR LAPORTE. No Romance Appears to Enter Into Case, Investigators Assert; Description on Leaving Building is Given. Leaving no trace that can be found by the police, Miss Madge Tuesburg, age 20, a student nurse in the Epworth hospital for the last three years, disappeared Monday afternoon, after leaving the hospital ostensibly to go to LaPrte, Ind., it was revealed today. According to the report made by her father John Tuesburg of Hanna, Ind., formerly of Culver, Ind., the young woman left the hospital at about 3:15 o’clock Monday afternoon, but since that time nothing is known of her movements. Hospital Officials Puzzled. Hospital officials, while not ready to say they fear some misfortune may have befallen her, are at a loss to understand why she should wish to disappear of her own accord. Her record is splendid, it is stated, and she appears to have been more than usually interested in her work and happy. Neither can members of her family assign a possible reason why she might wish to disappear. No romance seems to enter as a possibility in the case, inquiries developed this morning, according to investigators. Description is Given. When she left the hospital she was wearing a brown cloth coat with fur collar, a green hat, and tan oxfords. She carried a small black bag. She is described as being five feet six inches tall, weighing 150 pounds and as having dark brown hair and grey eyes. She is of slightly heavy build.” I tried to find a follow-up to this story, but Madge’s resurfacing must not have been newsworthy. But resurface she did, so happy ending to the story.
By the spring of 1928, Ethel was getting ready for baby. Two months before the arrival of little Betty Lou, Ethel underwent surgery, for what I don’t know. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 2 May 1928 p. 2) “Mrs. Hobart Baker who has been in the John Baker home for the past two weeks recovering from a recent operation, returned to her home in Knox, Thursday.” Betty Lou (2 Jul 1928 – 1 Nov 1975) made her appearance two days before the Fourth of July on 2 Jul 1928.
The three of them appeared together on the 1930 Census, living at 401 S. Pearl St. in Knox, Starke Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a salesman in a shoe store. Ethel, 26, was home with 1-year-old Betty.
The local papers featured dozens of clippings about the comings and goings of Mrs. Hobart Baker. Besides visits to family and friends, Ethel was involved in a few social groups that included a sewing club, card playing, the Wide Awake Class of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Ladies Aid Society of the Methodist Church, and the Eastern Star. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 27 Dec 1933 p. 2) “Four Chapters Honor Worthy Grand Matron. One hundred thirty-five members of the Argos, Bourbon, Bremen, and Culver chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star honed the grand worthy matron, Mrs. Rose Malcolm, of Indianapolis at a lovely dinner given in the Christian church dining room in Argos, Wednesday evening, Dec. 20. The Easter Star colors were chosen for the decorations of the tables…Two new members, Mrs. Hobart Baker of Culver and Mrs. Swogger of Argos were initiated in an impressive ritualistic service in which the four lodges took part. Thirty-five members of the Culver chapter attended the affair.”
In 1937, the family had a narrow escape. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 6 Jan 1937 p. 1) “$500 Damage by Fire At Hobart Baker House. Fire of undetermined source resulted in between $450 and $500 damage at the Hobart Baker home at 4:00 a.m. today. It is believed that an overheated hot air pipe started the blaze, but at what location could not be determined. A hole was burned in the roof, and the kitchen, a clothes closet, and a quantity of clothing were damaged by the flames, smoke, and water.” (The Culver Citizen – Wed 13 Jan 1937 p. 16) “CARD OF THANKS. We wish to express our appreciation for the help of friends and neighbors and the prompt services of the Culver Fire Department at the fire which threatened our home last Wednesday morning. –Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker.”
Ethel stayed in close contact with her family. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 31 May 1939 p. 4) “Mr. and Mrs. John Tuesburg of LaCrosse and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Tuesburg of Hannond, Ind., were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Baker Sunday.”
The 1940 Census caught up with the Bakers at 324 W. Washington St. in Culver, Marshall Co., Indiana. Hobart Baker, 37, was working as a house painter. Ethel, 36, was keeping house. Daughter Betty Lou, 11, was attending school.
Shortly after that enumeration, the family moved to a new residence. (The Culver Citizen – Wed 19 Jun 1940 p. 3) “The Hobart Baker family moved into the Ferrier apartment, Monday. The Harold Robinsons recently purchased the Baker house and are getting it ready for Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eckman to occupy.”
On his 16 Feb 1942 WWII registration, Hobart Earl Baker, 38, reported that he was living on Harding Ct. in Culver, Indiana, and that he was unemployed. Wife Ethel was noted as that person who would always know his address. He was 5’ 10” tall, weighed 144 lbs. and had grey eyes, grey hair, and a light complexion.
About a year later, the family moved to South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Indiana.
There was a happy occasion in 1947. (The South Bend Tribune – Fri 19 Dec 1947 p. 29) “Ridgedale Presbyterian church was the scene Sunday afternoon of the marriage of Miss Betty Lou Baker and Richard N. Benko. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hobart E. Baker, 107 West Fairview avenue. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Benko, 1229 East Ewing avenue, are the parents of the bridgegroom.”
The 1950 Census, set to be released in 2022 will allow one final glimpse of Ethel and husband Hobart. After twenty-nine years together, death parted them, claiming Ethel on 31 Oct 1956 at age 52. Hobart lived another thirteen years before departing this earth on 31 Jul 1969 at age 66.
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