DOMINIQUE THIS's burial site is today unmarked. In the over 130 years since his death, his stone has either been buried or has been removed. His stone has been gone or buried so long that the cemetery office has no record of his being buried here.
(Note: Dominique was one of two sets of This brothers, who were cousins. Dominique had a brothers named Etienne (Stephen Ignatius) This, who was born c. February __, 1805. Then Dominique and Stephen had two cousins, who were brothers. Jean This, who was born c. 1801/02, and Jean Francois This, who was born c. 1806, were brothers. So the two sets of brothers were first cousins. Dom and Stephen’s father had passed away in 1809, and the four boys are believed to have been were raised like brothers.
To make things more complicated, Stephen’s wife, Anna Marie Tonat (Tonnat, Thonnat), was a sister to Jean Francois’ wife Marie Madeleine Tonat. A third sister, Marie Barbe Tonat, married Joseph Fagot and they are also buried at St. Mary of Lourdes. And the first cousin of these three women was Anne Marie Barbe Tonat who married Jean This.)
Dominique This was born c. November 30, 1798, almost certainly in Many/Manning, Moselle Department, Bas-Rhin, France. He was almost certainly the son of Jean This, who was born c. April 16, 1766, and Ann Sanson, who was born c. 1771. Jean This is believed to have died c. 1809 and his sons were raised with their cousins.
Dominique This died on May 13, 1881 at the age of 82 years, 5 months, 13 days giving us the birthdate of November 30, 1798. His burial site and tombstone at one time were found in St. Mary's Cemetery, Metamora, Illinois, however, through the years, his tombstone has either been buried or vandalized to the point where it can no longer be found.
In 1847, three This families, brothers and cousins boarded a ship named Leonidas at the port of Le Havre, France. It arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana on June 13, 1847. These included Francois This, age 41; Jean This, age 46; and Dominique This, age 49 and their families; Following are the family members who are listed;
Francois This, 41
Marie, 40
Felice, 10
Jean, 8
Claud, 6
August, 4
Dominique, 1
Martin, Thonant, 67
Jean Franc (or g) This, 46
Marie, 48
Marie, 15
Fredericka, 12
Francois, 9
Sebastian, 7
Nicolas, 5
Marie, 3
Dominique This, 49 (b. abt 1798)
Jeanne, 46 (b. abt 1801)
Marie, 14 (b. abt 1833)
Charles, 11 (b. abt 1836)
Eugen, 9 (b. abt 1838)
Francois, 8 (b. abt 1839)
Dominique, 6 ( b. abt 1841)
Victoria, 4 (b. abt 1843
Felix, 2 (b. abt 1845)
The families came first to St. Louis, Missouri, but shortly afterward came to Woodford County, Illinois, where Dominique would reside the rest of his life.
Dominique This was married to Jeanne Simon on ___________ __, 1830 and to this union were born at least seven children. Jeanne was born on November 1, 1800 in Many, Moselle, France. Jeanne died on August 9, 1896. Following is her obituary;
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, August 20, 1896, Page 4, Column 4.
MRS. JEANNE THISS.
Jeanne This nee Simon was born November 1st 1800 in the village of Many in the department of Moselle France—now Alsace Lora'ne. She was united in marriage in 1830 to Dominicque This. Of this union were born seven children viz: Mary, Charles, John E., Frank, Dominicque, Victoria and Felix. All are living except Charles, who was killed in the battle of Kennesaw Mountain.
Dominicq This with his family came to this country in the summer of 1845, and settled in Woodford County, in what is known as the Joe Belsley neighbor hood, in Black Partridge. From there they moved three miles east of Eureka, where they lived until 1871. In the same year ie [sic] in 1871, they moved to Metamora. Dominicque This died died May 13th, 1881. Mrs. This has been living in Metamora since then, except eight years during which time she lived with her son John in Colfax, Illinois. About six weeks ago she came back to Metamora to live with her daughter Mrs. H. Conrard, where she died Sunday evening, August 9th, 1896, aged 95 years 8 months and 9 days.
All that the loving ministry of daughter and friends could do, was done for her. She was well known in this community and esteemed by the people of Metamora. She was a loving wife, an affectionate mother and true friend.
She was buried from the Catholic church, of which she was a life long member, and laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery August 12th, 1896. A. B.
[NOTE: No tombstone exists for Jeanne This in St. Mary's Cemetery.]
Following are the names of the seven children known to have been born to Dominique and Jeanne (Simon) This;
1. Marie "Mary" This; born June 16, 1832 in __________, France; married to Hypolite/Hippolite A. Conrard on May 5, 1858 in Washington, Illinois; Hypolite Conrard, whose family were early pioneers of the Metamora, Illinois area, was born on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, ___________; Eight children including Charles, Joseph D., Victoria, Blanch J. and Mary were born to Mary and Hypolite; In 1861, the Conrard's moved to Metamora, where they would make their home for the remainder of their lives; Mary died on February 11, 1905 in Metamora, Illinois, while Hypolite died on December __, 1915__; Their mortal remains were laid in the Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora, Illinois; See her Find A Grave site for more biographical information about her.
. CONRARD, PIONEER METAMORAN, IS DEAD
Passed Away Thursday, of Apoplectic Stroke
STRICKEN LAST SUNDAY
Found Unconscious Early Sunday Morning and Lingered in Helpless Condition Till Yesterday
H. Conrard, stricken with apoplexy Sunday morning, died at 11:25 Thursday afternoon.
The funeral will be held Saturday, Dec. 25, with services in the Metamora Union church at 2 o'clock in the afternoon.
H. Conrard, retired merchant and one of Metamora's oldest and most highly respected citizens, is lying in a precarious condition at his home as the result of an apopletic stroke that came upon him last Sunday morning. The entire left side of his body is affected and his condition is greatly aggravated by an obstinate bronchial trouble which makes breathing difficult. He has been in a semi-conscious condition since the attack came upon him and during the first few days was able to recognize those about him and to speak a few words, but it is apparent that he is sinking and cannot survive more than a few days. He has taken only liquid nourishment since he was stricken and very little of that in the last two days, on account of the increasing difficulty in swallowing.
Mr. Conrard was found lying on the floor beside his bed at 5:30 Sunday morning by his daughter and son, Miss Victoria and Chas. Conra[r]d, who make their home with him. Evidently he had been stricken upon arising from his bed. The noise of his fall awakened his daughter, who aroused her brother. He appeared to be unconscious when found and remained in that condition for some time.
Mr. Conrard was 80 years old on the 19th of last September. He has enjoyed remarkably good health for his years and during fair weather he has been uptown daily, doing the family shopping and joining in friendly chats with citizens of the town. A man of broad experience and sound views, his discourses were always very interesting.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 31, 1915, Page 4, Column 1.
FUNERAL OF THE LATE HYPOLITE CONRARD
Body of Pioneer Merchant Laid to Rest Saturday
HAD A VARIED CAREER
Was Engaged as Fur Trader With Indians in the Fifties – In Merchandise Business Here Nearly 50 Years
----------
Hypolite Conrard was born in the province of Alsace-Lorraine, (then France) September 19, 1835, and was a son of Louis and Mary (Rouselle) Conrard, natives of France, and representatives of old French families. The father spent his entire life as a business man in Alsace, Lorraine. The subject of this sketch is the third in order of birth in the family of five children, the others being Mrs. Mary Ann Gomien, a widow, residing in Hamilton County, Ohio, Mrs. Gasper, a widow, of Alsace, Lorraine, Louis and Emil, both business men of that place.
In his native province Mr. Conrard grew to manhood and attended the common schools for eight years, acquiring a good practical education in the French language. He served an apprenticeship of two years at the shoemaker's trade, and then worked for the same parties until his emigration to the United States in 1853. He took passage on a sailing vessel at Havre, and after a voyage of thirty-five days duration, during which they experienced some severe weather, he landed in this country.
He proceeded at once to Cincinnati, where he worked at his trade two years, and later was similarly employed at St. Louis. We next find him among the Indians on the plains in the employ of fur trading companies in what is now North Dakota, where he spent one year, and then returned to St. Louis for a short time.
In 1857 Mr. Conrard came to Illinois and after working for about a year at his trade in Tremont, Tazewell county, went to Eureka, where he had his first experience at farming, being thus employed two years. He came to Metamora in 1861 and opened a shoe sthop. At first he engaged in business only in a small way, but as his trade increased he put in a stock of ready-made boots and shoes, and later added a stock of general merchandise. He erected a store building and successfully engaged in business until 1866, when his store was destroyed by fire. He then built a good brick block, but it also burned in 1889, when the entire block surrounding him was destroyed. With characteristic energy, however, he at once rebuilt and continued business in the large double store, assisted by his sons Charles, Joseph D., and daughter, Victoria, until he retired from business about nine years ago.
In Washington, Illinois, May 5, 1858, Mr. Conrard was united in marriage, with Miss Mary This, also a native of France, who came to America when a young lady. To this union eight children were born, Charles and Joseph D. Conrard, both of Metamora, Mary, wife of J. L. Finch, of Lemont, Ill., Eulalie, deceased, Blanche, wife of A. J. Mason, Miss Victoria who with her brother Charles, constituted the household of Mr. Conrard, at the time of his death. Two other children died in infancy, Mrs. Conrard, died February 11, 1905.
Since casting his first presidential vote for General U. S. Grant in 1868, Mr. Conrard has been unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party. He never sought nor desired public office, prefer[r]ing to devote his untiring attention to the extensive business he had builded up. However, he has been elected and served many times as a member of the village council of Metamora. Mr. Conrard made several trips to his native land to visit the scenes and friends of his youth, but he was ever eager to return to the land in which he had prospered and of which he was a loyal and respected citizen at the time of his death, which took place at his home in Metamora, on December 23rd, 1915. Funeral services were held at the Union church, and conducted by Elder Andrew Schrock. The interment was in Oakwood cemetery on Saturday, December 25, 1915, at 3 o'clock p. m. All the surviving children were present, together with relatives from surrounding counties.
Ten grandchildren and one great grandson survive him and each mourn his loss for he loved them all and he was loved and respected in return.
Present at the funeral were: Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mrs. Haily Disco, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Gomien of Colfax, and J. L. Finch and family of Lemont.
[The Biographical Record of Livingston and Woodford County, Illinois, published in 1900, Pages 571-572, has an almost identical biographical sketch of H. Conrard.]
Son, Joseph D. Conrard, married Anna Josephine Wiltz. Joseph was born August 8, 1860 at Eureka, IL and died December 8, 1945 in Limestone Twp., Peoria Co., IL. Joseph and wife are both buried in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Metamora, IL. Anna Josephine was born July 10, 1862 and died January 8, 1935 – both born and died in Woodford Co., IL.
2. Charles This – killed at Kennesaw Mountain. The Lexington Genealogical Society has Charles buried at Olio Twp. Cemetery, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL. However, the Olio Township Cemetery, Index of Burials 1848-2006 does not include Charles.
3. John Eugene Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; living in Colfax, Illinois at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, April 20, 1923, Page 8, Column 1.
JOHN THISS, FORMER RESIDENT, PASSES ON
DIED AT HOME OF DAUGHTER IN COLFAX LAST THURSDAY AFTERNOON
Uncle of Members of Conrard Family, Who Attended Funeral Saturday—Came Here From France at Age of 9 Years
----------
Charles and Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. D. Conrard and A. J. Mason and son, Howard, attended the funeral in Colfax Saturday of the late John E. Thiss, uncle of the members of the Conrard family, and an old-time resident of Woodford county. Deceased was a brother of the late Mrs. H. Conrard of Metamora, and spent his early life in Woodford county, first in the country northwest of Metamora, where the family settled on coming to the United States from France, and later for many years on a farm east of Eureka.
The services were held in the home at 2 p.m., Rev. Osceola McNemar, pastor of the Colfax Christian church, and former pastor at Secor, officiating.
Mr. Thiss passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, of Colfax on Thursday afternoon at 5 o'clock following an illness of seventeen days duration. On March 27 he suffered a paralytic stroke form which he never rallied.
He was born in Manning, France February 9, 1837 and came to this country with his parents when 9 years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850, they moved to Eureka where they resided until 1862 when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the Civil war, being members of Co. A., Eighty-sixth Illinois regiment and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles, he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw mountain. At the close of war, he with his brother Frank returned to Eureka neither being wounded or injured in anyway.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of their farm, coming to McLean county. They bought the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to James Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to town to reside.
Mr. Thiss was preceded in death by his wife and one daughter, Mrs. Jeannette Chapman, both dying in 1911. He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Co[l]fax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold E. Chapman, of Chicago, Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Louise and Kathryn Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
JOHN THISS.
John Thiss died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, in Colfax, Thursday, April 12. He suffered a stroke of paralysis on March 27.
He was born in Manning, France, on February 9, 1837, and came to this country with his parents when nine years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka, where they resided until 1862, when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the civil war, being members of Company A, 86th Illinois regiment, and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw Mountain. At the close of the war he with his brother, Frank, returned to Eureka, neither being wounded or injured in any way.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of the farm, coming to McLean county. They purchased the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to Jas. Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to Colfax to reside.
He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Colfax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold Chapman, of Chicago; Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Kathryn and Louise Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
Those from this city who attended the funeral services which were held Saturday at Colfax, were Mrs. Frank Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. Adam Hoker.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 22, 1911, Page 7, Column 4.
Miss Victoria and Chas. Conrard left for Colfax Tuesday to attend the funeral of their aunt, Mrs. John This, who died at that place. The funeral was held Wednesday.
Colfax Press, Colfax, IL, December 21, 1911.
DEATH OF MRS. JOHN THISS.
Tothe one who has lived an upright and noble life, death has no terror, and so with Mrs. John Thiss, who passed away at her home on North Center street at 6:30 o'clock Monday evening, in the fulness of years and with a desire on her lips to meet her Saviour, having told her relatives and friends that she was anxious to go and meet her Saviour, and during all these years exemplifying the true faith in her Lord. The funeral was held at the house yesterday afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by her pastor, Rev. Geo. R. Southgate, the house being crowded with sympathizing friends. The minister spoke words of encouragement to those present of the noble life that has passed out to the other world, and at the close of the service the remains were conveyed to the Wiley cemetery to await the resurrection of the just.
Mary A. Mahan was one of the six children of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Mahan, there being three sons and three daughters, she being the third from the eldest. She was born near Laurel, Claremont county, Ohio, January 20, 1844. She made her home with her parents until she was past twenty years of age, teaching school in the vicinity of her native town. She made a visit to Eureka, Ill., about 1865, and while on this visit she met John Thiss. After a year-s stay at Eureka she and Mr. Thiss returned to Lauarel, Ohio, and were married at the home of her parents on December 21, 1866. They returned to Eureka and went to housekeeping on the groom's farm near there, where they remained until 1878 when they came to Colfax and took up their residence on a farm of 160 acres just at the southeast edge of Colfax which Mr. Thiss purchased and which is now rented to B. F. Satchwell. They remained on the farm until 1903 when they moved to town, purchasing the property now occupied by Wm. Gaddis, which they later sold to Mr. Gaddis. They spent one winter in Colorado and moved to their present home about five years ago. To this happy union of lives were born four children—Mrs. J. H. Discho and Frank C. Thiss of Colfax, Mrs. L. O. Chapman, who passed away after a lingering illness last July, and Mrs. J. E. Davison of Saybrook. The three living children were present during the last week's of their mother's illness to comfort the father in his severe trial.
The illness of the deceased dates back about fifteen months, when she began suffering with a cancer of the liver, being serious at times and causing her family much alarm, but she rallied from the first attacks, and her last and fatal attack being just sixteen weeks prior to her death, she having been confined in her bed all that time, and the end was almost daily expected for several weeks. Two weeks ago last Friday it was thought that she could not survive the night, and she seemed to realize it, and she called in about thirty of her intimate friends and talked to them and told all good-by, but the grim reaper did not claim her until Monday night, as above stated. Mrs. Thiss realized her condition and had made all the funeral arrangements. She united with the Christ church at Versailles, near Eureka, in 1875, and lived a faithful christian life. Her favorite songs were sung at the funeral service, being "Beckoning Hands," "Looking This Way," "Pass me Not," and "Beautiful City." The songs were sung by Mrs. J. P. Arnold, Mrs. R. N. Puett, R. N. Puett and E. E. Meharry. The pall bearers were the son, Frank Thiss, the sons-in-law, J. H. Discho, L. O. Chapman and J. E. Davison, and F. J. Harris and C. C. Evans. All the above funeral arrangements were ca[r]ried out as she planned.
Besides the husband she is survived by the following: J. A. Mahan, a brother, of Anderson, Indiana; Mrs. Melinda Hallam, a sister, of Eureka, Ill.; W. A. and W. W. Mahan, brothers, of Houston, Texas, and Mrs. Felix Thiss of Colfax, a sister; three children, Mrs. Discho, Frank Thiss and Mrs. Davison, and five grand-children.
Those present at the funeral from a distance were Mr. Chas. Conrard and sister, Miss Victoria, both of Metamora, being nephew and niece of Mr. Thiss; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Thiss of Fairbury; Mrs. Melinda Hallam of Eureka; L. O. Chapman and two sons of Bloomington, and J. E. Davison and family of Saybrook, and Miss Mildred Wiley of Bloomington.
4. Francois "Frank" Thiss, born July 4, 1838 in Manning, France; sometime between 1845 and 1847 his parents brought the family to America; Frank was married to ___________ _____________ on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, __________; At the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Frank was residing in Fairbury, Illinois.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, March 28, 1913.
FRANK THISS
Mr. Frank Thiss was born in Manning, France, July 4, 1838, and passed away at his late home in Fairbury, March 24, 1913 at 7:15 p.m. at the age of 74 years 8 months 20 days.
Mr. Thiss came to this country with his parents when but a child of 7 years. They settled at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka. Mr. Thiss and 2 of his brothers enlisted in Co. A, 86th Ill. Reg. Inf. In July 1862; was in active service for 3 years, being in a number of severe battles; he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. One of his brothers was killed in a battle at Kenesaw Mountain. Mr. Thiss and his older [brother], John, at the close of the war returned to their home in Eureka, neither of them being injured in any way.
Mr. Thiss was married to Miss Hannah Sumner, Mar. 22, 1868, at Eureka. Their 45th Anniversary came last Saturday, Mar. 22. In 1870 they moved to their farm near Fairbury, where they had resided for 28 years, when they moved to town to live a retired life.
Mr. Thiss leaves to mourn his departure, besides his widow, 3 brothers, John & Felix, of Colfax, Ill., and Nicholas, of Minneapolis, Minn., 1 sister, of St. Anthony, Idaho, besides a number of relatives, and a host of friends. Mr. Thiss was a kind and loving husband, a man every day the same, gentle, kind, patient to every one. To know him was to love him. The funeral services were held from his late home on East Hickory Street, Wed., Mar. 26, at 2:30 p.m., Rev. C. D. Rapp, officiating, and the remains were laid to ret in the Fairbury cemetery.
Those attending the funeral from out of town were: John Thiss, Frank Thiss, Jr., Mr. & Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Thiss, Mr. & Mrs. J. H. Discho, all of Colfax; Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Davidson & daughter, Louise of Saybrook; J. C. and Roy Sumner, of Pontiac; Charles Sumner, of Chicago; Mrs. Belle Roseberry, of St. Louis; Mrs. N. Thiss of Minneapolis, Minn.; Charles & Joe Conrard, Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. & Mrs. A. J. Mason, of Metamora; and Mrs. Gorge Leonard, George Harper, of Forrest; Mr. & Mrs. Dana Y. Tewksbury, D. A. Robinson, of Kankakee; Mr. and Mrs. F. George Tate, of Pontiac.
[Buried in Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury. Has a government stone.]
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, March 28, 1913, Page 1, Column 4.
Early Woodford Settler Dead
Chas., J. D. and Victoria Conrard and Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Mason attended the funeral at Fairbury Wednesday of their uncle, Frank This, who died Monday. Deceased was an early settler in this county, residing for many years east of Eureka. He left this county about 35 years ago. He was 74 years old and was a soldier of the Civil war, being in the army of Gen. Sherman in the famous march to the sea. He is survived by his wife, but leaves no children.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, April 4, 1930.
Mrs. Frank Thiss
Hannah Sumner was born in Elkhart, Indiana, March 3, 1847, and passed away at her home in this city (Fairbury) Sunday., aged 83 years and 22 days. She came to Eureka with her parnets, when about 20 years of age, and here united in marriage to Frank Thiss on March 22, 1868. In 1870 they moved to the home farm near Fairbury, where they resided for 28 years. They then moved to town to live a retired life.
Mrs. Thiss united with the Baptist church of Fairbury in 1900, 30 years ago, of which she was always a loyal member and generous supporter. Mr. Thiss preceded her in death on March 24, 1913. She leaves numerous nephews and nieces and a large number of intimate friends to mourn her loss.
Mrs. Thiss made a great many gifts to those in need which were generally unknown, and always, in an unassuming manner.
Funeral services were held at the home yesterday afternoon at 2:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. J. D. Shorney, pastor of the Baptist church. Some of Mrs. Thiss' favorite hymns were sung by Miss Irene Denarske and Isam Travis. Interment was in Graceland cemetery.
5. Nicholas Dominique This, born ___________ __, 18__ at ____________, France; Nicholas was living in Minneapolis, Minnisota at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
6. Victoria Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; Victoria was married to ____________ Webster on ___________ __, 18__ at __________, ___________; At the time of her sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Victoria and ____________ were residing in Kansas.
7. Felix Thiss, born March 31, 1845 in Manning France; Felix married Elizabeth Mahan on December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio; Living in Colfax, Illinois in 1905 at the time of his sister, Mary's, death; Felix died on October 26, 1914 in Colfax, Illinois.
Married Elizabeth Mahan December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio
Came to America at 2 years of age.
Situated at Spring Bay, Woodford Co., 1850, then to Eureka; moved to McLean Co., 1879; next year east of Colfax.
Survived by wife; son, Charles; brothers John of Colfax, Nicholas of Minneapolis; sister, Victoria Webster of Mountain Park, OK.
Brother Charles killed in battle of Kennesaw Mt.
Brother Frank died at Fairbury.
Sister Mary Conrard died at Metamora.
Buried at Wiley Cemetery.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
MRS. ELIZABETH THISS DIED AT ST. JOSEPH'S MONDAY
Mrs. Elizabeth Thiss, aged 79 years died at St. Joseph's hospital in Bloomington on Monday afternoon after a lingering illness of several years. She had been a patient at the hospital for several weeks.
Elizabeth Mahon was born in Bethel, Ohio on July 17, 1851 where she grew to womanhood with her parents, William and Rebecca Mahon. At an early age she united with the Christian church at Bethel, Ohio. She was united in marriage to Felix Thiss on December 7, 1871 and they moved to McLean county in 1879 locating near Saybrook. In 1880 they moved to a farm east of Colfax.
Mr. Thiss passed away October 26, 1914. Mrs. Thiss was a member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Thimble club of the Christian church.
She leaves to mourn her loss one son, Charles M. and one grandson, William F. of Colfax.
The funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Colfax Christian church with Rev. Harold Willis the pastor, officiating. Burial was in the Wiley Cemetery.
In 1866, Dommique This (as both names are spelled) appears on the US IRS Tax Assessment List. He is listed in Olio Township, Eureka, Woodford County, Illinois. "Article or occupation" is listed as "carriage."
In 1870, Dominic This appears in Olio Twp., Woodford Co., IL.
Dominic This 71 Farmer France
Jane This 66 France
Philip This 25 France
[Seven family units following is...]
John This 38 Farmer France
Mary This 30 Keeps house Ills
Henry This 1 Ills
In 1880, Dominique This (as both names are spelled) is in Metamora, Woodford Co., IL.
Dominique This 83 Retired farmer France
Jane This 69 France
Victoria This 37 France
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois, and Joanna Block, whose email address is [email protected]
(Note: Dominique was one of two sets of This brothers, who were cousins. Dominique had a brothers named Etienne (Stephen Ignatius) This, who was born c. February __, 1805. Then Dominique and Stephen had two cousins, who were brothers. Jean This, who was born c. 1801/02, and Jean Francois This, who was born c. 1806, were brothers. So the two sets of brothers were first cousins. Dom and Stephen’s father had passed away in 1809, and the four boys are believed to have been were raised like brothers.
To make things more complicated, Stephen’s wife, Anna Marie Tonat (Tonnat, Thonnat), was a sister to Jean Francois’ wife Marie Madeleine Tonat. A third sister, Marie Barbe Tonat, married Joseph Fagot and they are also buried at St. Mary of Lourdes. And the first cousin of these three women was Anne Marie Barbe Tonat who married Jean This.)
Dominique This was born c. November 30, 1798, almost certainly in Many/Manning, Moselle Department, Bas-Rhin, France. He was almost certainly the son of Jean This, who was born c. April 16, 1766, and Ann Sanson, who was born c. 1771. Jean This is believed to have died c. 1809 and his sons were raised with their cousins.
Dominique This died on May 13, 1881 at the age of 82 years, 5 months, 13 days giving us the birthdate of November 30, 1798. His burial site and tombstone at one time were found in St. Mary's Cemetery, Metamora, Illinois, however, through the years, his tombstone has either been buried or vandalized to the point where it can no longer be found.
In 1847, three This families, brothers and cousins boarded a ship named Leonidas at the port of Le Havre, France. It arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana on June 13, 1847. These included Francois This, age 41; Jean This, age 46; and Dominique This, age 49 and their families; Following are the family members who are listed;
Francois This, 41
Marie, 40
Felice, 10
Jean, 8
Claud, 6
August, 4
Dominique, 1
Martin, Thonant, 67
Jean Franc (or g) This, 46
Marie, 48
Marie, 15
Fredericka, 12
Francois, 9
Sebastian, 7
Nicolas, 5
Marie, 3
Dominique This, 49 (b. abt 1798)
Jeanne, 46 (b. abt 1801)
Marie, 14 (b. abt 1833)
Charles, 11 (b. abt 1836)
Eugen, 9 (b. abt 1838)
Francois, 8 (b. abt 1839)
Dominique, 6 ( b. abt 1841)
Victoria, 4 (b. abt 1843
Felix, 2 (b. abt 1845)
The families came first to St. Louis, Missouri, but shortly afterward came to Woodford County, Illinois, where Dominique would reside the rest of his life.
Dominique This was married to Jeanne Simon on ___________ __, 1830 and to this union were born at least seven children. Jeanne was born on November 1, 1800 in Many, Moselle, France. Jeanne died on August 9, 1896. Following is her obituary;
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, August 20, 1896, Page 4, Column 4.
MRS. JEANNE THISS.
Jeanne This nee Simon was born November 1st 1800 in the village of Many in the department of Moselle France—now Alsace Lora'ne. She was united in marriage in 1830 to Dominicque This. Of this union were born seven children viz: Mary, Charles, John E., Frank, Dominicque, Victoria and Felix. All are living except Charles, who was killed in the battle of Kennesaw Mountain.
Dominicq This with his family came to this country in the summer of 1845, and settled in Woodford County, in what is known as the Joe Belsley neighbor hood, in Black Partridge. From there they moved three miles east of Eureka, where they lived until 1871. In the same year ie [sic] in 1871, they moved to Metamora. Dominicque This died died May 13th, 1881. Mrs. This has been living in Metamora since then, except eight years during which time she lived with her son John in Colfax, Illinois. About six weeks ago she came back to Metamora to live with her daughter Mrs. H. Conrard, where she died Sunday evening, August 9th, 1896, aged 95 years 8 months and 9 days.
All that the loving ministry of daughter and friends could do, was done for her. She was well known in this community and esteemed by the people of Metamora. She was a loving wife, an affectionate mother and true friend.
She was buried from the Catholic church, of which she was a life long member, and laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery August 12th, 1896. A. B.
[NOTE: No tombstone exists for Jeanne This in St. Mary's Cemetery.]
Following are the names of the seven children known to have been born to Dominique and Jeanne (Simon) This;
1. Marie "Mary" This; born June 16, 1832 in __________, France; married to Hypolite/Hippolite A. Conrard on May 5, 1858 in Washington, Illinois; Hypolite Conrard, whose family were early pioneers of the Metamora, Illinois area, was born on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, ___________; Eight children including Charles, Joseph D., Victoria, Blanch J. and Mary were born to Mary and Hypolite; In 1861, the Conrard's moved to Metamora, where they would make their home for the remainder of their lives; Mary died on February 11, 1905 in Metamora, Illinois, while Hypolite died on December __, 1915__; Their mortal remains were laid in the Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora, Illinois; See her Find A Grave site for more biographical information about her.
. CONRARD, PIONEER METAMORAN, IS DEAD
Passed Away Thursday, of Apoplectic Stroke
STRICKEN LAST SUNDAY
Found Unconscious Early Sunday Morning and Lingered in Helpless Condition Till Yesterday
H. Conrard, stricken with apoplexy Sunday morning, died at 11:25 Thursday afternoon.
The funeral will be held Saturday, Dec. 25, with services in the Metamora Union church at 2 o'clock in the afternoon.
H. Conrard, retired merchant and one of Metamora's oldest and most highly respected citizens, is lying in a precarious condition at his home as the result of an apopletic stroke that came upon him last Sunday morning. The entire left side of his body is affected and his condition is greatly aggravated by an obstinate bronchial trouble which makes breathing difficult. He has been in a semi-conscious condition since the attack came upon him and during the first few days was able to recognize those about him and to speak a few words, but it is apparent that he is sinking and cannot survive more than a few days. He has taken only liquid nourishment since he was stricken and very little of that in the last two days, on account of the increasing difficulty in swallowing.
Mr. Conrard was found lying on the floor beside his bed at 5:30 Sunday morning by his daughter and son, Miss Victoria and Chas. Conra[r]d, who make their home with him. Evidently he had been stricken upon arising from his bed. The noise of his fall awakened his daughter, who aroused her brother. He appeared to be unconscious when found and remained in that condition for some time.
Mr. Conrard was 80 years old on the 19th of last September. He has enjoyed remarkably good health for his years and during fair weather he has been uptown daily, doing the family shopping and joining in friendly chats with citizens of the town. A man of broad experience and sound views, his discourses were always very interesting.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 31, 1915, Page 4, Column 1.
FUNERAL OF THE LATE HYPOLITE CONRARD
Body of Pioneer Merchant Laid to Rest Saturday
HAD A VARIED CAREER
Was Engaged as Fur Trader With Indians in the Fifties – In Merchandise Business Here Nearly 50 Years
----------
Hypolite Conrard was born in the province of Alsace-Lorraine, (then France) September 19, 1835, and was a son of Louis and Mary (Rouselle) Conrard, natives of France, and representatives of old French families. The father spent his entire life as a business man in Alsace, Lorraine. The subject of this sketch is the third in order of birth in the family of five children, the others being Mrs. Mary Ann Gomien, a widow, residing in Hamilton County, Ohio, Mrs. Gasper, a widow, of Alsace, Lorraine, Louis and Emil, both business men of that place.
In his native province Mr. Conrard grew to manhood and attended the common schools for eight years, acquiring a good practical education in the French language. He served an apprenticeship of two years at the shoemaker's trade, and then worked for the same parties until his emigration to the United States in 1853. He took passage on a sailing vessel at Havre, and after a voyage of thirty-five days duration, during which they experienced some severe weather, he landed in this country.
He proceeded at once to Cincinnati, where he worked at his trade two years, and later was similarly employed at St. Louis. We next find him among the Indians on the plains in the employ of fur trading companies in what is now North Dakota, where he spent one year, and then returned to St. Louis for a short time.
In 1857 Mr. Conrard came to Illinois and after working for about a year at his trade in Tremont, Tazewell county, went to Eureka, where he had his first experience at farming, being thus employed two years. He came to Metamora in 1861 and opened a shoe sthop. At first he engaged in business only in a small way, but as his trade increased he put in a stock of ready-made boots and shoes, and later added a stock of general merchandise. He erected a store building and successfully engaged in business until 1866, when his store was destroyed by fire. He then built a good brick block, but it also burned in 1889, when the entire block surrounding him was destroyed. With characteristic energy, however, he at once rebuilt and continued business in the large double store, assisted by his sons Charles, Joseph D., and daughter, Victoria, until he retired from business about nine years ago.
In Washington, Illinois, May 5, 1858, Mr. Conrard was united in marriage, with Miss Mary This, also a native of France, who came to America when a young lady. To this union eight children were born, Charles and Joseph D. Conrard, both of Metamora, Mary, wife of J. L. Finch, of Lemont, Ill., Eulalie, deceased, Blanche, wife of A. J. Mason, Miss Victoria who with her brother Charles, constituted the household of Mr. Conrard, at the time of his death. Two other children died in infancy, Mrs. Conrard, died February 11, 1905.
Since casting his first presidential vote for General U. S. Grant in 1868, Mr. Conrard has been unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party. He never sought nor desired public office, prefer[r]ing to devote his untiring attention to the extensive business he had builded up. However, he has been elected and served many times as a member of the village council of Metamora. Mr. Conrard made several trips to his native land to visit the scenes and friends of his youth, but he was ever eager to return to the land in which he had prospered and of which he was a loyal and respected citizen at the time of his death, which took place at his home in Metamora, on December 23rd, 1915. Funeral services were held at the Union church, and conducted by Elder Andrew Schrock. The interment was in Oakwood cemetery on Saturday, December 25, 1915, at 3 o'clock p. m. All the surviving children were present, together with relatives from surrounding counties.
Ten grandchildren and one great grandson survive him and each mourn his loss for he loved them all and he was loved and respected in return.
Present at the funeral were: Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mrs. Haily Disco, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Gomien of Colfax, and J. L. Finch and family of Lemont.
[The Biographical Record of Livingston and Woodford County, Illinois, published in 1900, Pages 571-572, has an almost identical biographical sketch of H. Conrard.]
Son, Joseph D. Conrard, married Anna Josephine Wiltz. Joseph was born August 8, 1860 at Eureka, IL and died December 8, 1945 in Limestone Twp., Peoria Co., IL. Joseph and wife are both buried in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Metamora, IL. Anna Josephine was born July 10, 1862 and died January 8, 1935 – both born and died in Woodford Co., IL.
2. Charles This – killed at Kennesaw Mountain. The Lexington Genealogical Society has Charles buried at Olio Twp. Cemetery, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL. However, the Olio Township Cemetery, Index of Burials 1848-2006 does not include Charles.
3. John Eugene Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; living in Colfax, Illinois at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, April 20, 1923, Page 8, Column 1.
JOHN THISS, FORMER RESIDENT, PASSES ON
DIED AT HOME OF DAUGHTER IN COLFAX LAST THURSDAY AFTERNOON
Uncle of Members of Conrard Family, Who Attended Funeral Saturday—Came Here From France at Age of 9 Years
----------
Charles and Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. D. Conrard and A. J. Mason and son, Howard, attended the funeral in Colfax Saturday of the late John E. Thiss, uncle of the members of the Conrard family, and an old-time resident of Woodford county. Deceased was a brother of the late Mrs. H. Conrard of Metamora, and spent his early life in Woodford county, first in the country northwest of Metamora, where the family settled on coming to the United States from France, and later for many years on a farm east of Eureka.
The services were held in the home at 2 p.m., Rev. Osceola McNemar, pastor of the Colfax Christian church, and former pastor at Secor, officiating.
Mr. Thiss passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, of Colfax on Thursday afternoon at 5 o'clock following an illness of seventeen days duration. On March 27 he suffered a paralytic stroke form which he never rallied.
He was born in Manning, France February 9, 1837 and came to this country with his parents when 9 years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850, they moved to Eureka where they resided until 1862 when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the Civil war, being members of Co. A., Eighty-sixth Illinois regiment and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles, he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw mountain. At the close of war, he with his brother Frank returned to Eureka neither being wounded or injured in anyway.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of their farm, coming to McLean county. They bought the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to James Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to town to reside.
Mr. Thiss was preceded in death by his wife and one daughter, Mrs. Jeannette Chapman, both dying in 1911. He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Co[l]fax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold E. Chapman, of Chicago, Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Louise and Kathryn Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
JOHN THISS.
John Thiss died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, in Colfax, Thursday, April 12. He suffered a stroke of paralysis on March 27.
He was born in Manning, France, on February 9, 1837, and came to this country with his parents when nine years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka, where they resided until 1862, when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the civil war, being members of Company A, 86th Illinois regiment, and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw Mountain. At the close of the war he with his brother, Frank, returned to Eureka, neither being wounded or injured in any way.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of the farm, coming to McLean county. They purchased the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to Jas. Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to Colfax to reside.
He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Colfax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold Chapman, of Chicago; Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Kathryn and Louise Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
Those from this city who attended the funeral services which were held Saturday at Colfax, were Mrs. Frank Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. Adam Hoker.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 22, 1911, Page 7, Column 4.
Miss Victoria and Chas. Conrard left for Colfax Tuesday to attend the funeral of their aunt, Mrs. John This, who died at that place. The funeral was held Wednesday.
Colfax Press, Colfax, IL, December 21, 1911.
DEATH OF MRS. JOHN THISS.
Tothe one who has lived an upright and noble life, death has no terror, and so with Mrs. John Thiss, who passed away at her home on North Center street at 6:30 o'clock Monday evening, in the fulness of years and with a desire on her lips to meet her Saviour, having told her relatives and friends that she was anxious to go and meet her Saviour, and during all these years exemplifying the true faith in her Lord. The funeral was held at the house yesterday afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by her pastor, Rev. Geo. R. Southgate, the house being crowded with sympathizing friends. The minister spoke words of encouragement to those present of the noble life that has passed out to the other world, and at the close of the service the remains were conveyed to the Wiley cemetery to await the resurrection of the just.
Mary A. Mahan was one of the six children of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Mahan, there being three sons and three daughters, she being the third from the eldest. She was born near Laurel, Claremont county, Ohio, January 20, 1844. She made her home with her parents until she was past twenty years of age, teaching school in the vicinity of her native town. She made a visit to Eureka, Ill., about 1865, and while on this visit she met John Thiss. After a year-s stay at Eureka she and Mr. Thiss returned to Lauarel, Ohio, and were married at the home of her parents on December 21, 1866. They returned to Eureka and went to housekeeping on the groom's farm near there, where they remained until 1878 when they came to Colfax and took up their residence on a farm of 160 acres just at the southeast edge of Colfax which Mr. Thiss purchased and which is now rented to B. F. Satchwell. They remained on the farm until 1903 when they moved to town, purchasing the property now occupied by Wm. Gaddis, which they later sold to Mr. Gaddis. They spent one winter in Colorado and moved to their present home about five years ago. To this happy union of lives were born four children—Mrs. J. H. Discho and Frank C. Thiss of Colfax, Mrs. L. O. Chapman, who passed away after a lingering illness last July, and Mrs. J. E. Davison of Saybrook. The three living children were present during the last week's of their mother's illness to comfort the father in his severe trial.
The illness of the deceased dates back about fifteen months, when she began suffering with a cancer of the liver, being serious at times and causing her family much alarm, but she rallied from the first attacks, and her last and fatal attack being just sixteen weeks prior to her death, she having been confined in her bed all that time, and the end was almost daily expected for several weeks. Two weeks ago last Friday it was thought that she could not survive the night, and she seemed to realize it, and she called in about thirty of her intimate friends and talked to them and told all good-by, but the grim reaper did not claim her until Monday night, as above stated. Mrs. Thiss realized her condition and had made all the funeral arrangements. She united with the Christ church at Versailles, near Eureka, in 1875, and lived a faithful christian life. Her favorite songs were sung at the funeral service, being "Beckoning Hands," "Looking This Way," "Pass me Not," and "Beautiful City." The songs were sung by Mrs. J. P. Arnold, Mrs. R. N. Puett, R. N. Puett and E. E. Meharry. The pall bearers were the son, Frank Thiss, the sons-in-law, J. H. Discho, L. O. Chapman and J. E. Davison, and F. J. Harris and C. C. Evans. All the above funeral arrangements were ca[r]ried out as she planned.
Besides the husband she is survived by the following: J. A. Mahan, a brother, of Anderson, Indiana; Mrs. Melinda Hallam, a sister, of Eureka, Ill.; W. A. and W. W. Mahan, brothers, of Houston, Texas, and Mrs. Felix Thiss of Colfax, a sister; three children, Mrs. Discho, Frank Thiss and Mrs. Davison, and five grand-children.
Those present at the funeral from a distance were Mr. Chas. Conrard and sister, Miss Victoria, both of Metamora, being nephew and niece of Mr. Thiss; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Thiss of Fairbury; Mrs. Melinda Hallam of Eureka; L. O. Chapman and two sons of Bloomington, and J. E. Davison and family of Saybrook, and Miss Mildred Wiley of Bloomington.
4. Francois "Frank" Thiss, born July 4, 1838 in Manning, France; sometime between 1845 and 1847 his parents brought the family to America; Frank was married to ___________ _____________ on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, __________; At the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Frank was residing in Fairbury, Illinois.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, March 28, 1913.
FRANK THISS
Mr. Frank Thiss was born in Manning, France, July 4, 1838, and passed away at his late home in Fairbury, March 24, 1913 at 7:15 p.m. at the age of 74 years 8 months 20 days.
Mr. Thiss came to this country with his parents when but a child of 7 years. They settled at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka. Mr. Thiss and 2 of his brothers enlisted in Co. A, 86th Ill. Reg. Inf. In July 1862; was in active service for 3 years, being in a number of severe battles; he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. One of his brothers was killed in a battle at Kenesaw Mountain. Mr. Thiss and his older [brother], John, at the close of the war returned to their home in Eureka, neither of them being injured in any way.
Mr. Thiss was married to Miss Hannah Sumner, Mar. 22, 1868, at Eureka. Their 45th Anniversary came last Saturday, Mar. 22. In 1870 they moved to their farm near Fairbury, where they had resided for 28 years, when they moved to town to live a retired life.
Mr. Thiss leaves to mourn his departure, besides his widow, 3 brothers, John & Felix, of Colfax, Ill., and Nicholas, of Minneapolis, Minn., 1 sister, of St. Anthony, Idaho, besides a number of relatives, and a host of friends. Mr. Thiss was a kind and loving husband, a man every day the same, gentle, kind, patient to every one. To know him was to love him. The funeral services were held from his late home on East Hickory Street, Wed., Mar. 26, at 2:30 p.m., Rev. C. D. Rapp, officiating, and the remains were laid to ret in the Fairbury cemetery.
Those attending the funeral from out of town were: John Thiss, Frank Thiss, Jr., Mr. & Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Thiss, Mr. & Mrs. J. H. Discho, all of Colfax; Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Davidson & daughter, Louise of Saybrook; J. C. and Roy Sumner, of Pontiac; Charles Sumner, of Chicago; Mrs. Belle Roseberry, of St. Louis; Mrs. N. Thiss of Minneapolis, Minn.; Charles & Joe Conrard, Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. & Mrs. A. J. Mason, of Metamora; and Mrs. Gorge Leonard, George Harper, of Forrest; Mr. & Mrs. Dana Y. Tewksbury, D. A. Robinson, of Kankakee; Mr. and Mrs. F. George Tate, of Pontiac.
[Buried in Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury. Has a government stone.]
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, March 28, 1913, Page 1, Column 4.
Early Woodford Settler Dead
Chas., J. D. and Victoria Conrard and Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Mason attended the funeral at Fairbury Wednesday of their uncle, Frank This, who died Monday. Deceased was an early settler in this county, residing for many years east of Eureka. He left this county about 35 years ago. He was 74 years old and was a soldier of the Civil war, being in the army of Gen. Sherman in the famous march to the sea. He is survived by his wife, but leaves no children.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, April 4, 1930.
Mrs. Frank Thiss
Hannah Sumner was born in Elkhart, Indiana, March 3, 1847, and passed away at her home in this city (Fairbury) Sunday., aged 83 years and 22 days. She came to Eureka with her parnets, when about 20 years of age, and here united in marriage to Frank Thiss on March 22, 1868. In 1870 they moved to the home farm near Fairbury, where they resided for 28 years. They then moved to town to live a retired life.
Mrs. Thiss united with the Baptist church of Fairbury in 1900, 30 years ago, of which she was always a loyal member and generous supporter. Mr. Thiss preceded her in death on March 24, 1913. She leaves numerous nephews and nieces and a large number of intimate friends to mourn her loss.
Mrs. Thiss made a great many gifts to those in need which were generally unknown, and always, in an unassuming manner.
Funeral services were held at the home yesterday afternoon at 2:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. J. D. Shorney, pastor of the Baptist church. Some of Mrs. Thiss' favorite hymns were sung by Miss Irene Denarske and Isam Travis. Interment was in Graceland cemetery.
5. Nicholas Dominique This, born ___________ __, 18__ at ____________, France; Nicholas was living in Minneapolis, Minnisota at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
6. Victoria Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; Victoria was married to ____________ Webster on ___________ __, 18__ at __________, ___________; At the time of her sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Victoria and ____________ were residing in Kansas.
7. Felix Thiss, born March 31, 1845 in Manning France; Felix married Elizabeth Mahan on December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio; Living in Colfax, Illinois in 1905 at the time of his sister, Mary's, death; Felix died on October 26, 1914 in Colfax, Illinois.
Married Elizabeth Mahan December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio
Came to America at 2 years of age.
Situated at Spring Bay, Woodford Co., 1850, then to Eureka; moved to McLean Co., 1879; next year east of Colfax.
Survived by wife; son, Charles; brothers John of Colfax, Nicholas of Minneapolis; sister, Victoria Webster of Mountain Park, OK.
Brother Charles killed in battle of Kennesaw Mt.
Brother Frank died at Fairbury.
Sister Mary Conrard died at Metamora.
Buried at Wiley Cemetery.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
MRS. ELIZABETH THISS DIED AT ST. JOSEPH'S MONDAY
Mrs. Elizabeth Thiss, aged 79 years died at St. Joseph's hospital in Bloomington on Monday afternoon after a lingering illness of several years. She had been a patient at the hospital for several weeks.
Elizabeth Mahon was born in Bethel, Ohio on July 17, 1851 where she grew to womanhood with her parents, William and Rebecca Mahon. At an early age she united with the Christian church at Bethel, Ohio. She was united in marriage to Felix Thiss on December 7, 1871 and they moved to McLean county in 1879 locating near Saybrook. In 1880 they moved to a farm east of Colfax.
Mr. Thiss passed away October 26, 1914. Mrs. Thiss was a member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Thimble club of the Christian church.
She leaves to mourn her loss one son, Charles M. and one grandson, William F. of Colfax.
The funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Colfax Christian church with Rev. Harold Willis the pastor, officiating. Burial was in the Wiley Cemetery.
In 1866, Dommique This (as both names are spelled) appears on the US IRS Tax Assessment List. He is listed in Olio Township, Eureka, Woodford County, Illinois. "Article or occupation" is listed as "carriage."
In 1870, Dominic This appears in Olio Twp., Woodford Co., IL.
Dominic This 71 Farmer France
Jane This 66 France
Philip This 25 France
[Seven family units following is...]
John This 38 Farmer France
Mary This 30 Keeps house Ills
Henry This 1 Ills
In 1880, Dominique This (as both names are spelled) is in Metamora, Woodford Co., IL.
Dominique This 83 Retired farmer France
Jane This 69 France
Victoria This 37 France
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois, and Joanna Block, whose email address is [email protected]
DOMINIQUE THIS's burial site is today unmarked. In the over 130 years since his death, his stone has either been buried or has been removed. His stone has been gone or buried so long that the cemetery office has no record of his being buried here.
(Note: Dominique was one of two sets of This brothers, who were cousins. Dominique had a brothers named Etienne (Stephen Ignatius) This, who was born c. February __, 1805. Then Dominique and Stephen had two cousins, who were brothers. Jean This, who was born c. 1801/02, and Jean Francois This, who was born c. 1806, were brothers. So the two sets of brothers were first cousins. Dom and Stephen’s father had passed away in 1809, and the four boys are believed to have been were raised like brothers.
To make things more complicated, Stephen’s wife, Anna Marie Tonat (Tonnat, Thonnat), was a sister to Jean Francois’ wife Marie Madeleine Tonat. A third sister, Marie Barbe Tonat, married Joseph Fagot and they are also buried at St. Mary of Lourdes. And the first cousin of these three women was Anne Marie Barbe Tonat who married Jean This.)
Dominique This was born c. November 30, 1798, almost certainly in Many/Manning, Moselle Department, Bas-Rhin, France. He was almost certainly the son of Jean This, who was born c. April 16, 1766, and Ann Sanson, who was born c. 1771. Jean This is believed to have died c. 1809 and his sons were raised with their cousins.
Dominique This died on May 13, 1881 at the age of 82 years, 5 months, 13 days giving us the birthdate of November 30, 1798. His burial site and tombstone at one time were found in St. Mary's Cemetery, Metamora, Illinois, however, through the years, his tombstone has either been buried or vandalized to the point where it can no longer be found.
In 1847, three This families, brothers and cousins boarded a ship named Leonidas at the port of Le Havre, France. It arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana on June 13, 1847. These included Francois This, age 41; Jean This, age 46; and Dominique This, age 49 and their families; Following are the family members who are listed;
Francois This, 41
Marie, 40
Felice, 10
Jean, 8
Claud, 6
August, 4
Dominique, 1
Martin, Thonant, 67
Jean Franc (or g) This, 46
Marie, 48
Marie, 15
Fredericka, 12
Francois, 9
Sebastian, 7
Nicolas, 5
Marie, 3
Dominique This, 49 (b. abt 1798)
Jeanne, 46 (b. abt 1801)
Marie, 14 (b. abt 1833)
Charles, 11 (b. abt 1836)
Eugen, 9 (b. abt 1838)
Francois, 8 (b. abt 1839)
Dominique, 6 ( b. abt 1841)
Victoria, 4 (b. abt 1843
Felix, 2 (b. abt 1845)
The families came first to St. Louis, Missouri, but shortly afterward came to Woodford County, Illinois, where Dominique would reside the rest of his life.
Dominique This was married to Jeanne Simon on ___________ __, 1830 and to this union were born at least seven children. Jeanne was born on November 1, 1800 in Many, Moselle, France. Jeanne died on August 9, 1896. Following is her obituary;
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, August 20, 1896, Page 4, Column 4.
MRS. JEANNE THISS.
Jeanne This nee Simon was born November 1st 1800 in the village of Many in the department of Moselle France—now Alsace Lora'ne. She was united in marriage in 1830 to Dominicque This. Of this union were born seven children viz: Mary, Charles, John E., Frank, Dominicque, Victoria and Felix. All are living except Charles, who was killed in the battle of Kennesaw Mountain.
Dominicq This with his family came to this country in the summer of 1845, and settled in Woodford County, in what is known as the Joe Belsley neighbor hood, in Black Partridge. From there they moved three miles east of Eureka, where they lived until 1871. In the same year ie [sic] in 1871, they moved to Metamora. Dominicque This died died May 13th, 1881. Mrs. This has been living in Metamora since then, except eight years during which time she lived with her son John in Colfax, Illinois. About six weeks ago she came back to Metamora to live with her daughter Mrs. H. Conrard, where she died Sunday evening, August 9th, 1896, aged 95 years 8 months and 9 days.
All that the loving ministry of daughter and friends could do, was done for her. She was well known in this community and esteemed by the people of Metamora. She was a loving wife, an affectionate mother and true friend.
She was buried from the Catholic church, of which she was a life long member, and laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery August 12th, 1896. A. B.
[NOTE: No tombstone exists for Jeanne This in St. Mary's Cemetery.]
Following are the names of the seven children known to have been born to Dominique and Jeanne (Simon) This;
1. Marie "Mary" This; born June 16, 1832 in __________, France; married to Hypolite/Hippolite A. Conrard on May 5, 1858 in Washington, Illinois; Hypolite Conrard, whose family were early pioneers of the Metamora, Illinois area, was born on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, ___________; Eight children including Charles, Joseph D., Victoria, Blanch J. and Mary were born to Mary and Hypolite; In 1861, the Conrard's moved to Metamora, where they would make their home for the remainder of their lives; Mary died on February 11, 1905 in Metamora, Illinois, while Hypolite died on December __, 1915__; Their mortal remains were laid in the Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora, Illinois; See her Find A Grave site for more biographical information about her.
. CONRARD, PIONEER METAMORAN, IS DEAD
Passed Away Thursday, of Apoplectic Stroke
STRICKEN LAST SUNDAY
Found Unconscious Early Sunday Morning and Lingered in Helpless Condition Till Yesterday
H. Conrard, stricken with apoplexy Sunday morning, died at 11:25 Thursday afternoon.
The funeral will be held Saturday, Dec. 25, with services in the Metamora Union church at 2 o'clock in the afternoon.
H. Conrard, retired merchant and one of Metamora's oldest and most highly respected citizens, is lying in a precarious condition at his home as the result of an apopletic stroke that came upon him last Sunday morning. The entire left side of his body is affected and his condition is greatly aggravated by an obstinate bronchial trouble which makes breathing difficult. He has been in a semi-conscious condition since the attack came upon him and during the first few days was able to recognize those about him and to speak a few words, but it is apparent that he is sinking and cannot survive more than a few days. He has taken only liquid nourishment since he was stricken and very little of that in the last two days, on account of the increasing difficulty in swallowing.
Mr. Conrard was found lying on the floor beside his bed at 5:30 Sunday morning by his daughter and son, Miss Victoria and Chas. Conra[r]d, who make their home with him. Evidently he had been stricken upon arising from his bed. The noise of his fall awakened his daughter, who aroused her brother. He appeared to be unconscious when found and remained in that condition for some time.
Mr. Conrard was 80 years old on the 19th of last September. He has enjoyed remarkably good health for his years and during fair weather he has been uptown daily, doing the family shopping and joining in friendly chats with citizens of the town. A man of broad experience and sound views, his discourses were always very interesting.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 31, 1915, Page 4, Column 1.
FUNERAL OF THE LATE HYPOLITE CONRARD
Body of Pioneer Merchant Laid to Rest Saturday
HAD A VARIED CAREER
Was Engaged as Fur Trader With Indians in the Fifties – In Merchandise Business Here Nearly 50 Years
----------
Hypolite Conrard was born in the province of Alsace-Lorraine, (then France) September 19, 1835, and was a son of Louis and Mary (Rouselle) Conrard, natives of France, and representatives of old French families. The father spent his entire life as a business man in Alsace, Lorraine. The subject of this sketch is the third in order of birth in the family of five children, the others being Mrs. Mary Ann Gomien, a widow, residing in Hamilton County, Ohio, Mrs. Gasper, a widow, of Alsace, Lorraine, Louis and Emil, both business men of that place.
In his native province Mr. Conrard grew to manhood and attended the common schools for eight years, acquiring a good practical education in the French language. He served an apprenticeship of two years at the shoemaker's trade, and then worked for the same parties until his emigration to the United States in 1853. He took passage on a sailing vessel at Havre, and after a voyage of thirty-five days duration, during which they experienced some severe weather, he landed in this country.
He proceeded at once to Cincinnati, where he worked at his trade two years, and later was similarly employed at St. Louis. We next find him among the Indians on the plains in the employ of fur trading companies in what is now North Dakota, where he spent one year, and then returned to St. Louis for a short time.
In 1857 Mr. Conrard came to Illinois and after working for about a year at his trade in Tremont, Tazewell county, went to Eureka, where he had his first experience at farming, being thus employed two years. He came to Metamora in 1861 and opened a shoe sthop. At first he engaged in business only in a small way, but as his trade increased he put in a stock of ready-made boots and shoes, and later added a stock of general merchandise. He erected a store building and successfully engaged in business until 1866, when his store was destroyed by fire. He then built a good brick block, but it also burned in 1889, when the entire block surrounding him was destroyed. With characteristic energy, however, he at once rebuilt and continued business in the large double store, assisted by his sons Charles, Joseph D., and daughter, Victoria, until he retired from business about nine years ago.
In Washington, Illinois, May 5, 1858, Mr. Conrard was united in marriage, with Miss Mary This, also a native of France, who came to America when a young lady. To this union eight children were born, Charles and Joseph D. Conrard, both of Metamora, Mary, wife of J. L. Finch, of Lemont, Ill., Eulalie, deceased, Blanche, wife of A. J. Mason, Miss Victoria who with her brother Charles, constituted the household of Mr. Conrard, at the time of his death. Two other children died in infancy, Mrs. Conrard, died February 11, 1905.
Since casting his first presidential vote for General U. S. Grant in 1868, Mr. Conrard has been unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party. He never sought nor desired public office, prefer[r]ing to devote his untiring attention to the extensive business he had builded up. However, he has been elected and served many times as a member of the village council of Metamora. Mr. Conrard made several trips to his native land to visit the scenes and friends of his youth, but he was ever eager to return to the land in which he had prospered and of which he was a loyal and respected citizen at the time of his death, which took place at his home in Metamora, on December 23rd, 1915. Funeral services were held at the Union church, and conducted by Elder Andrew Schrock. The interment was in Oakwood cemetery on Saturday, December 25, 1915, at 3 o'clock p. m. All the surviving children were present, together with relatives from surrounding counties.
Ten grandchildren and one great grandson survive him and each mourn his loss for he loved them all and he was loved and respected in return.
Present at the funeral were: Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mrs. Haily Disco, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Gomien of Colfax, and J. L. Finch and family of Lemont.
[The Biographical Record of Livingston and Woodford County, Illinois, published in 1900, Pages 571-572, has an almost identical biographical sketch of H. Conrard.]
Son, Joseph D. Conrard, married Anna Josephine Wiltz. Joseph was born August 8, 1860 at Eureka, IL and died December 8, 1945 in Limestone Twp., Peoria Co., IL. Joseph and wife are both buried in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Metamora, IL. Anna Josephine was born July 10, 1862 and died January 8, 1935 – both born and died in Woodford Co., IL.
2. Charles This – killed at Kennesaw Mountain. The Lexington Genealogical Society has Charles buried at Olio Twp. Cemetery, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL. However, the Olio Township Cemetery, Index of Burials 1848-2006 does not include Charles.
3. John Eugene Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; living in Colfax, Illinois at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, April 20, 1923, Page 8, Column 1.
JOHN THISS, FORMER RESIDENT, PASSES ON
DIED AT HOME OF DAUGHTER IN COLFAX LAST THURSDAY AFTERNOON
Uncle of Members of Conrard Family, Who Attended Funeral Saturday—Came Here From France at Age of 9 Years
----------
Charles and Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. D. Conrard and A. J. Mason and son, Howard, attended the funeral in Colfax Saturday of the late John E. Thiss, uncle of the members of the Conrard family, and an old-time resident of Woodford county. Deceased was a brother of the late Mrs. H. Conrard of Metamora, and spent his early life in Woodford county, first in the country northwest of Metamora, where the family settled on coming to the United States from France, and later for many years on a farm east of Eureka.
The services were held in the home at 2 p.m., Rev. Osceola McNemar, pastor of the Colfax Christian church, and former pastor at Secor, officiating.
Mr. Thiss passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, of Colfax on Thursday afternoon at 5 o'clock following an illness of seventeen days duration. On March 27 he suffered a paralytic stroke form which he never rallied.
He was born in Manning, France February 9, 1837 and came to this country with his parents when 9 years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850, they moved to Eureka where they resided until 1862 when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the Civil war, being members of Co. A., Eighty-sixth Illinois regiment and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles, he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw mountain. At the close of war, he with his brother Frank returned to Eureka neither being wounded or injured in anyway.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of their farm, coming to McLean county. They bought the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to James Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to town to reside.
Mr. Thiss was preceded in death by his wife and one daughter, Mrs. Jeannette Chapman, both dying in 1911. He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Co[l]fax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold E. Chapman, of Chicago, Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Louise and Kathryn Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
JOHN THISS.
John Thiss died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, in Colfax, Thursday, April 12. He suffered a stroke of paralysis on March 27.
He was born in Manning, France, on February 9, 1837, and came to this country with his parents when nine years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka, where they resided until 1862, when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the civil war, being members of Company A, 86th Illinois regiment, and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw Mountain. At the close of the war he with his brother, Frank, returned to Eureka, neither being wounded or injured in any way.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of the farm, coming to McLean county. They purchased the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to Jas. Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to Colfax to reside.
He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Colfax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold Chapman, of Chicago; Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Kathryn and Louise Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
Those from this city who attended the funeral services which were held Saturday at Colfax, were Mrs. Frank Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. Adam Hoker.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 22, 1911, Page 7, Column 4.
Miss Victoria and Chas. Conrard left for Colfax Tuesday to attend the funeral of their aunt, Mrs. John This, who died at that place. The funeral was held Wednesday.
Colfax Press, Colfax, IL, December 21, 1911.
DEATH OF MRS. JOHN THISS.
Tothe one who has lived an upright and noble life, death has no terror, and so with Mrs. John Thiss, who passed away at her home on North Center street at 6:30 o'clock Monday evening, in the fulness of years and with a desire on her lips to meet her Saviour, having told her relatives and friends that she was anxious to go and meet her Saviour, and during all these years exemplifying the true faith in her Lord. The funeral was held at the house yesterday afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by her pastor, Rev. Geo. R. Southgate, the house being crowded with sympathizing friends. The minister spoke words of encouragement to those present of the noble life that has passed out to the other world, and at the close of the service the remains were conveyed to the Wiley cemetery to await the resurrection of the just.
Mary A. Mahan was one of the six children of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Mahan, there being three sons and three daughters, she being the third from the eldest. She was born near Laurel, Claremont county, Ohio, January 20, 1844. She made her home with her parents until she was past twenty years of age, teaching school in the vicinity of her native town. She made a visit to Eureka, Ill., about 1865, and while on this visit she met John Thiss. After a year-s stay at Eureka she and Mr. Thiss returned to Lauarel, Ohio, and were married at the home of her parents on December 21, 1866. They returned to Eureka and went to housekeeping on the groom's farm near there, where they remained until 1878 when they came to Colfax and took up their residence on a farm of 160 acres just at the southeast edge of Colfax which Mr. Thiss purchased and which is now rented to B. F. Satchwell. They remained on the farm until 1903 when they moved to town, purchasing the property now occupied by Wm. Gaddis, which they later sold to Mr. Gaddis. They spent one winter in Colorado and moved to their present home about five years ago. To this happy union of lives were born four children—Mrs. J. H. Discho and Frank C. Thiss of Colfax, Mrs. L. O. Chapman, who passed away after a lingering illness last July, and Mrs. J. E. Davison of Saybrook. The three living children were present during the last week's of their mother's illness to comfort the father in his severe trial.
The illness of the deceased dates back about fifteen months, when she began suffering with a cancer of the liver, being serious at times and causing her family much alarm, but she rallied from the first attacks, and her last and fatal attack being just sixteen weeks prior to her death, she having been confined in her bed all that time, and the end was almost daily expected for several weeks. Two weeks ago last Friday it was thought that she could not survive the night, and she seemed to realize it, and she called in about thirty of her intimate friends and talked to them and told all good-by, but the grim reaper did not claim her until Monday night, as above stated. Mrs. Thiss realized her condition and had made all the funeral arrangements. She united with the Christ church at Versailles, near Eureka, in 1875, and lived a faithful christian life. Her favorite songs were sung at the funeral service, being "Beckoning Hands," "Looking This Way," "Pass me Not," and "Beautiful City." The songs were sung by Mrs. J. P. Arnold, Mrs. R. N. Puett, R. N. Puett and E. E. Meharry. The pall bearers were the son, Frank Thiss, the sons-in-law, J. H. Discho, L. O. Chapman and J. E. Davison, and F. J. Harris and C. C. Evans. All the above funeral arrangements were ca[r]ried out as she planned.
Besides the husband she is survived by the following: J. A. Mahan, a brother, of Anderson, Indiana; Mrs. Melinda Hallam, a sister, of Eureka, Ill.; W. A. and W. W. Mahan, brothers, of Houston, Texas, and Mrs. Felix Thiss of Colfax, a sister; three children, Mrs. Discho, Frank Thiss and Mrs. Davison, and five grand-children.
Those present at the funeral from a distance were Mr. Chas. Conrard and sister, Miss Victoria, both of Metamora, being nephew and niece of Mr. Thiss; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Thiss of Fairbury; Mrs. Melinda Hallam of Eureka; L. O. Chapman and two sons of Bloomington, and J. E. Davison and family of Saybrook, and Miss Mildred Wiley of Bloomington.
4. Francois "Frank" Thiss, born July 4, 1838 in Manning, France; sometime between 1845 and 1847 his parents brought the family to America; Frank was married to ___________ _____________ on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, __________; At the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Frank was residing in Fairbury, Illinois.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, March 28, 1913.
FRANK THISS
Mr. Frank Thiss was born in Manning, France, July 4, 1838, and passed away at his late home in Fairbury, March 24, 1913 at 7:15 p.m. at the age of 74 years 8 months 20 days.
Mr. Thiss came to this country with his parents when but a child of 7 years. They settled at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka. Mr. Thiss and 2 of his brothers enlisted in Co. A, 86th Ill. Reg. Inf. In July 1862; was in active service for 3 years, being in a number of severe battles; he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. One of his brothers was killed in a battle at Kenesaw Mountain. Mr. Thiss and his older [brother], John, at the close of the war returned to their home in Eureka, neither of them being injured in any way.
Mr. Thiss was married to Miss Hannah Sumner, Mar. 22, 1868, at Eureka. Their 45th Anniversary came last Saturday, Mar. 22. In 1870 they moved to their farm near Fairbury, where they had resided for 28 years, when they moved to town to live a retired life.
Mr. Thiss leaves to mourn his departure, besides his widow, 3 brothers, John & Felix, of Colfax, Ill., and Nicholas, of Minneapolis, Minn., 1 sister, of St. Anthony, Idaho, besides a number of relatives, and a host of friends. Mr. Thiss was a kind and loving husband, a man every day the same, gentle, kind, patient to every one. To know him was to love him. The funeral services were held from his late home on East Hickory Street, Wed., Mar. 26, at 2:30 p.m., Rev. C. D. Rapp, officiating, and the remains were laid to ret in the Fairbury cemetery.
Those attending the funeral from out of town were: John Thiss, Frank Thiss, Jr., Mr. & Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Thiss, Mr. & Mrs. J. H. Discho, all of Colfax; Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Davidson & daughter, Louise of Saybrook; J. C. and Roy Sumner, of Pontiac; Charles Sumner, of Chicago; Mrs. Belle Roseberry, of St. Louis; Mrs. N. Thiss of Minneapolis, Minn.; Charles & Joe Conrard, Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. & Mrs. A. J. Mason, of Metamora; and Mrs. Gorge Leonard, George Harper, of Forrest; Mr. & Mrs. Dana Y. Tewksbury, D. A. Robinson, of Kankakee; Mr. and Mrs. F. George Tate, of Pontiac.
[Buried in Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury. Has a government stone.]
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, March 28, 1913, Page 1, Column 4.
Early Woodford Settler Dead
Chas., J. D. and Victoria Conrard and Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Mason attended the funeral at Fairbury Wednesday of their uncle, Frank This, who died Monday. Deceased was an early settler in this county, residing for many years east of Eureka. He left this county about 35 years ago. He was 74 years old and was a soldier of the Civil war, being in the army of Gen. Sherman in the famous march to the sea. He is survived by his wife, but leaves no children.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, April 4, 1930.
Mrs. Frank Thiss
Hannah Sumner was born in Elkhart, Indiana, March 3, 1847, and passed away at her home in this city (Fairbury) Sunday., aged 83 years and 22 days. She came to Eureka with her parnets, when about 20 years of age, and here united in marriage to Frank Thiss on March 22, 1868. In 1870 they moved to the home farm near Fairbury, where they resided for 28 years. They then moved to town to live a retired life.
Mrs. Thiss united with the Baptist church of Fairbury in 1900, 30 years ago, of which she was always a loyal member and generous supporter. Mr. Thiss preceded her in death on March 24, 1913. She leaves numerous nephews and nieces and a large number of intimate friends to mourn her loss.
Mrs. Thiss made a great many gifts to those in need which were generally unknown, and always, in an unassuming manner.
Funeral services were held at the home yesterday afternoon at 2:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. J. D. Shorney, pastor of the Baptist church. Some of Mrs. Thiss' favorite hymns were sung by Miss Irene Denarske and Isam Travis. Interment was in Graceland cemetery.
5. Nicholas Dominique This, born ___________ __, 18__ at ____________, France; Nicholas was living in Minneapolis, Minnisota at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
6. Victoria Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; Victoria was married to ____________ Webster on ___________ __, 18__ at __________, ___________; At the time of her sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Victoria and ____________ were residing in Kansas.
7. Felix Thiss, born March 31, 1845 in Manning France; Felix married Elizabeth Mahan on December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio; Living in Colfax, Illinois in 1905 at the time of his sister, Mary's, death; Felix died on October 26, 1914 in Colfax, Illinois.
Married Elizabeth Mahan December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio
Came to America at 2 years of age.
Situated at Spring Bay, Woodford Co., 1850, then to Eureka; moved to McLean Co., 1879; next year east of Colfax.
Survived by wife; son, Charles; brothers John of Colfax, Nicholas of Minneapolis; sister, Victoria Webster of Mountain Park, OK.
Brother Charles killed in battle of Kennesaw Mt.
Brother Frank died at Fairbury.
Sister Mary Conrard died at Metamora.
Buried at Wiley Cemetery.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
MRS. ELIZABETH THISS DIED AT ST. JOSEPH'S MONDAY
Mrs. Elizabeth Thiss, aged 79 years died at St. Joseph's hospital in Bloomington on Monday afternoon after a lingering illness of several years. She had been a patient at the hospital for several weeks.
Elizabeth Mahon was born in Bethel, Ohio on July 17, 1851 where she grew to womanhood with her parents, William and Rebecca Mahon. At an early age she united with the Christian church at Bethel, Ohio. She was united in marriage to Felix Thiss on December 7, 1871 and they moved to McLean county in 1879 locating near Saybrook. In 1880 they moved to a farm east of Colfax.
Mr. Thiss passed away October 26, 1914. Mrs. Thiss was a member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Thimble club of the Christian church.
She leaves to mourn her loss one son, Charles M. and one grandson, William F. of Colfax.
The funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Colfax Christian church with Rev. Harold Willis the pastor, officiating. Burial was in the Wiley Cemetery.
In 1866, Dommique This (as both names are spelled) appears on the US IRS Tax Assessment List. He is listed in Olio Township, Eureka, Woodford County, Illinois. "Article or occupation" is listed as "carriage."
In 1870, Dominic This appears in Olio Twp., Woodford Co., IL.
Dominic This 71 Farmer France
Jane This 66 France
Philip This 25 France
[Seven family units following is...]
John This 38 Farmer France
Mary This 30 Keeps house Ills
Henry This 1 Ills
In 1880, Dominique This (as both names are spelled) is in Metamora, Woodford Co., IL.
Dominique This 83 Retired farmer France
Jane This 69 France
Victoria This 37 France
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois, and Joanna Block, whose email address is [email protected]
(Note: Dominique was one of two sets of This brothers, who were cousins. Dominique had a brothers named Etienne (Stephen Ignatius) This, who was born c. February __, 1805. Then Dominique and Stephen had two cousins, who were brothers. Jean This, who was born c. 1801/02, and Jean Francois This, who was born c. 1806, were brothers. So the two sets of brothers were first cousins. Dom and Stephen’s father had passed away in 1809, and the four boys are believed to have been were raised like brothers.
To make things more complicated, Stephen’s wife, Anna Marie Tonat (Tonnat, Thonnat), was a sister to Jean Francois’ wife Marie Madeleine Tonat. A third sister, Marie Barbe Tonat, married Joseph Fagot and they are also buried at St. Mary of Lourdes. And the first cousin of these three women was Anne Marie Barbe Tonat who married Jean This.)
Dominique This was born c. November 30, 1798, almost certainly in Many/Manning, Moselle Department, Bas-Rhin, France. He was almost certainly the son of Jean This, who was born c. April 16, 1766, and Ann Sanson, who was born c. 1771. Jean This is believed to have died c. 1809 and his sons were raised with their cousins.
Dominique This died on May 13, 1881 at the age of 82 years, 5 months, 13 days giving us the birthdate of November 30, 1798. His burial site and tombstone at one time were found in St. Mary's Cemetery, Metamora, Illinois, however, through the years, his tombstone has either been buried or vandalized to the point where it can no longer be found.
In 1847, three This families, brothers and cousins boarded a ship named Leonidas at the port of Le Havre, France. It arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana on June 13, 1847. These included Francois This, age 41; Jean This, age 46; and Dominique This, age 49 and their families; Following are the family members who are listed;
Francois This, 41
Marie, 40
Felice, 10
Jean, 8
Claud, 6
August, 4
Dominique, 1
Martin, Thonant, 67
Jean Franc (or g) This, 46
Marie, 48
Marie, 15
Fredericka, 12
Francois, 9
Sebastian, 7
Nicolas, 5
Marie, 3
Dominique This, 49 (b. abt 1798)
Jeanne, 46 (b. abt 1801)
Marie, 14 (b. abt 1833)
Charles, 11 (b. abt 1836)
Eugen, 9 (b. abt 1838)
Francois, 8 (b. abt 1839)
Dominique, 6 ( b. abt 1841)
Victoria, 4 (b. abt 1843
Felix, 2 (b. abt 1845)
The families came first to St. Louis, Missouri, but shortly afterward came to Woodford County, Illinois, where Dominique would reside the rest of his life.
Dominique This was married to Jeanne Simon on ___________ __, 1830 and to this union were born at least seven children. Jeanne was born on November 1, 1800 in Many, Moselle, France. Jeanne died on August 9, 1896. Following is her obituary;
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, August 20, 1896, Page 4, Column 4.
MRS. JEANNE THISS.
Jeanne This nee Simon was born November 1st 1800 in the village of Many in the department of Moselle France—now Alsace Lora'ne. She was united in marriage in 1830 to Dominicque This. Of this union were born seven children viz: Mary, Charles, John E., Frank, Dominicque, Victoria and Felix. All are living except Charles, who was killed in the battle of Kennesaw Mountain.
Dominicq This with his family came to this country in the summer of 1845, and settled in Woodford County, in what is known as the Joe Belsley neighbor hood, in Black Partridge. From there they moved three miles east of Eureka, where they lived until 1871. In the same year ie [sic] in 1871, they moved to Metamora. Dominicque This died died May 13th, 1881. Mrs. This has been living in Metamora since then, except eight years during which time she lived with her son John in Colfax, Illinois. About six weeks ago she came back to Metamora to live with her daughter Mrs. H. Conrard, where she died Sunday evening, August 9th, 1896, aged 95 years 8 months and 9 days.
All that the loving ministry of daughter and friends could do, was done for her. She was well known in this community and esteemed by the people of Metamora. She was a loving wife, an affectionate mother and true friend.
She was buried from the Catholic church, of which she was a life long member, and laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery August 12th, 1896. A. B.
[NOTE: No tombstone exists for Jeanne This in St. Mary's Cemetery.]
Following are the names of the seven children known to have been born to Dominique and Jeanne (Simon) This;
1. Marie "Mary" This; born June 16, 1832 in __________, France; married to Hypolite/Hippolite A. Conrard on May 5, 1858 in Washington, Illinois; Hypolite Conrard, whose family were early pioneers of the Metamora, Illinois area, was born on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, ___________; Eight children including Charles, Joseph D., Victoria, Blanch J. and Mary were born to Mary and Hypolite; In 1861, the Conrard's moved to Metamora, where they would make their home for the remainder of their lives; Mary died on February 11, 1905 in Metamora, Illinois, while Hypolite died on December __, 1915__; Their mortal remains were laid in the Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora, Illinois; See her Find A Grave site for more biographical information about her.
. CONRARD, PIONEER METAMORAN, IS DEAD
Passed Away Thursday, of Apoplectic Stroke
STRICKEN LAST SUNDAY
Found Unconscious Early Sunday Morning and Lingered in Helpless Condition Till Yesterday
H. Conrard, stricken with apoplexy Sunday morning, died at 11:25 Thursday afternoon.
The funeral will be held Saturday, Dec. 25, with services in the Metamora Union church at 2 o'clock in the afternoon.
H. Conrard, retired merchant and one of Metamora's oldest and most highly respected citizens, is lying in a precarious condition at his home as the result of an apopletic stroke that came upon him last Sunday morning. The entire left side of his body is affected and his condition is greatly aggravated by an obstinate bronchial trouble which makes breathing difficult. He has been in a semi-conscious condition since the attack came upon him and during the first few days was able to recognize those about him and to speak a few words, but it is apparent that he is sinking and cannot survive more than a few days. He has taken only liquid nourishment since he was stricken and very little of that in the last two days, on account of the increasing difficulty in swallowing.
Mr. Conrard was found lying on the floor beside his bed at 5:30 Sunday morning by his daughter and son, Miss Victoria and Chas. Conra[r]d, who make their home with him. Evidently he had been stricken upon arising from his bed. The noise of his fall awakened his daughter, who aroused her brother. He appeared to be unconscious when found and remained in that condition for some time.
Mr. Conrard was 80 years old on the 19th of last September. He has enjoyed remarkably good health for his years and during fair weather he has been uptown daily, doing the family shopping and joining in friendly chats with citizens of the town. A man of broad experience and sound views, his discourses were always very interesting.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 31, 1915, Page 4, Column 1.
FUNERAL OF THE LATE HYPOLITE CONRARD
Body of Pioneer Merchant Laid to Rest Saturday
HAD A VARIED CAREER
Was Engaged as Fur Trader With Indians in the Fifties – In Merchandise Business Here Nearly 50 Years
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Hypolite Conrard was born in the province of Alsace-Lorraine, (then France) September 19, 1835, and was a son of Louis and Mary (Rouselle) Conrard, natives of France, and representatives of old French families. The father spent his entire life as a business man in Alsace, Lorraine. The subject of this sketch is the third in order of birth in the family of five children, the others being Mrs. Mary Ann Gomien, a widow, residing in Hamilton County, Ohio, Mrs. Gasper, a widow, of Alsace, Lorraine, Louis and Emil, both business men of that place.
In his native province Mr. Conrard grew to manhood and attended the common schools for eight years, acquiring a good practical education in the French language. He served an apprenticeship of two years at the shoemaker's trade, and then worked for the same parties until his emigration to the United States in 1853. He took passage on a sailing vessel at Havre, and after a voyage of thirty-five days duration, during which they experienced some severe weather, he landed in this country.
He proceeded at once to Cincinnati, where he worked at his trade two years, and later was similarly employed at St. Louis. We next find him among the Indians on the plains in the employ of fur trading companies in what is now North Dakota, where he spent one year, and then returned to St. Louis for a short time.
In 1857 Mr. Conrard came to Illinois and after working for about a year at his trade in Tremont, Tazewell county, went to Eureka, where he had his first experience at farming, being thus employed two years. He came to Metamora in 1861 and opened a shoe sthop. At first he engaged in business only in a small way, but as his trade increased he put in a stock of ready-made boots and shoes, and later added a stock of general merchandise. He erected a store building and successfully engaged in business until 1866, when his store was destroyed by fire. He then built a good brick block, but it also burned in 1889, when the entire block surrounding him was destroyed. With characteristic energy, however, he at once rebuilt and continued business in the large double store, assisted by his sons Charles, Joseph D., and daughter, Victoria, until he retired from business about nine years ago.
In Washington, Illinois, May 5, 1858, Mr. Conrard was united in marriage, with Miss Mary This, also a native of France, who came to America when a young lady. To this union eight children were born, Charles and Joseph D. Conrard, both of Metamora, Mary, wife of J. L. Finch, of Lemont, Ill., Eulalie, deceased, Blanche, wife of A. J. Mason, Miss Victoria who with her brother Charles, constituted the household of Mr. Conrard, at the time of his death. Two other children died in infancy, Mrs. Conrard, died February 11, 1905.
Since casting his first presidential vote for General U. S. Grant in 1868, Mr. Conrard has been unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party. He never sought nor desired public office, prefer[r]ing to devote his untiring attention to the extensive business he had builded up. However, he has been elected and served many times as a member of the village council of Metamora. Mr. Conrard made several trips to his native land to visit the scenes and friends of his youth, but he was ever eager to return to the land in which he had prospered and of which he was a loyal and respected citizen at the time of his death, which took place at his home in Metamora, on December 23rd, 1915. Funeral services were held at the Union church, and conducted by Elder Andrew Schrock. The interment was in Oakwood cemetery on Saturday, December 25, 1915, at 3 o'clock p. m. All the surviving children were present, together with relatives from surrounding counties.
Ten grandchildren and one great grandson survive him and each mourn his loss for he loved them all and he was loved and respected in return.
Present at the funeral were: Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mrs. Haily Disco, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Gomien of Colfax, and J. L. Finch and family of Lemont.
[The Biographical Record of Livingston and Woodford County, Illinois, published in 1900, Pages 571-572, has an almost identical biographical sketch of H. Conrard.]
Son, Joseph D. Conrard, married Anna Josephine Wiltz. Joseph was born August 8, 1860 at Eureka, IL and died December 8, 1945 in Limestone Twp., Peoria Co., IL. Joseph and wife are both buried in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Metamora, IL. Anna Josephine was born July 10, 1862 and died January 8, 1935 – both born and died in Woodford Co., IL.
2. Charles This – killed at Kennesaw Mountain. The Lexington Genealogical Society has Charles buried at Olio Twp. Cemetery, Eureka, Woodford Co., IL. However, the Olio Township Cemetery, Index of Burials 1848-2006 does not include Charles.
3. John Eugene Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; living in Colfax, Illinois at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, April 20, 1923, Page 8, Column 1.
JOHN THISS, FORMER RESIDENT, PASSES ON
DIED AT HOME OF DAUGHTER IN COLFAX LAST THURSDAY AFTERNOON
Uncle of Members of Conrard Family, Who Attended Funeral Saturday—Came Here From France at Age of 9 Years
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Charles and Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. D. Conrard and A. J. Mason and son, Howard, attended the funeral in Colfax Saturday of the late John E. Thiss, uncle of the members of the Conrard family, and an old-time resident of Woodford county. Deceased was a brother of the late Mrs. H. Conrard of Metamora, and spent his early life in Woodford county, first in the country northwest of Metamora, where the family settled on coming to the United States from France, and later for many years on a farm east of Eureka.
The services were held in the home at 2 p.m., Rev. Osceola McNemar, pastor of the Colfax Christian church, and former pastor at Secor, officiating.
Mr. Thiss passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, of Colfax on Thursday afternoon at 5 o'clock following an illness of seventeen days duration. On March 27 he suffered a paralytic stroke form which he never rallied.
He was born in Manning, France February 9, 1837 and came to this country with his parents when 9 years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850, they moved to Eureka where they resided until 1862 when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the Civil war, being members of Co. A., Eighty-sixth Illinois regiment and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles, he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw mountain. At the close of war, he with his brother Frank returned to Eureka neither being wounded or injured in anyway.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of their farm, coming to McLean county. They bought the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to James Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to town to reside.
Mr. Thiss was preceded in death by his wife and one daughter, Mrs. Jeannette Chapman, both dying in 1911. He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Co[l]fax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold E. Chapman, of Chicago, Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Louise and Kathryn Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
JOHN THISS.
John Thiss died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. J. H. Discho, in Colfax, Thursday, April 12. He suffered a stroke of paralysis on March 27.
He was born in Manning, France, on February 9, 1837, and came to this country with his parents when nine years of age, settling at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka, where they resided until 1862, when he and his two brothers, Charles and Frank, enlisted for service in the civil war, being members of Company A, 86th Illinois regiment, and he was in active service for three years. Being in a number of battles he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. His brother, Charles, was killed in the battle at Kenesaw Mountain. At the close of the war he with his brother, Frank, returned to Eureka, neither being wounded or injured in any way.
On December 21, Mr. Thiss was united in marriage to Mary A. Mahan of Laurel, O. They began housekeeping on his farm, four miles east of Eureka, where they remained until 1878, when they disposed of the farm, coming to McLean county. They purchased the farm adjoining Colfax on the south, which he sold to Jas. Havens several years ago. In 1903 they left the farm and moved to Colfax to reside.
He is survived by the following children: Hallie M. Discho, of Colfax; Frank C. Thiss, of Casper, Wyo., and Mrs. Daisy Davison, of Peoria. There are six grandchildren, Harold Chapman, of Chicago; Loren A. Chapman, of Bloomington; Claude, Harry, Kathryn and Louise Davison, of Peoria. He also leaves one brother, N. F. Thiss, of Minneapolis, Minn.
Those from this city who attended the funeral services which were held Saturday at Colfax, were Mrs. Frank Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. Adam Hoker.
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, December 22, 1911, Page 7, Column 4.
Miss Victoria and Chas. Conrard left for Colfax Tuesday to attend the funeral of their aunt, Mrs. John This, who died at that place. The funeral was held Wednesday.
Colfax Press, Colfax, IL, December 21, 1911.
DEATH OF MRS. JOHN THISS.
Tothe one who has lived an upright and noble life, death has no terror, and so with Mrs. John Thiss, who passed away at her home on North Center street at 6:30 o'clock Monday evening, in the fulness of years and with a desire on her lips to meet her Saviour, having told her relatives and friends that she was anxious to go and meet her Saviour, and during all these years exemplifying the true faith in her Lord. The funeral was held at the house yesterday afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by her pastor, Rev. Geo. R. Southgate, the house being crowded with sympathizing friends. The minister spoke words of encouragement to those present of the noble life that has passed out to the other world, and at the close of the service the remains were conveyed to the Wiley cemetery to await the resurrection of the just.
Mary A. Mahan was one of the six children of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Mahan, there being three sons and three daughters, she being the third from the eldest. She was born near Laurel, Claremont county, Ohio, January 20, 1844. She made her home with her parents until she was past twenty years of age, teaching school in the vicinity of her native town. She made a visit to Eureka, Ill., about 1865, and while on this visit she met John Thiss. After a year-s stay at Eureka she and Mr. Thiss returned to Lauarel, Ohio, and were married at the home of her parents on December 21, 1866. They returned to Eureka and went to housekeeping on the groom's farm near there, where they remained until 1878 when they came to Colfax and took up their residence on a farm of 160 acres just at the southeast edge of Colfax which Mr. Thiss purchased and which is now rented to B. F. Satchwell. They remained on the farm until 1903 when they moved to town, purchasing the property now occupied by Wm. Gaddis, which they later sold to Mr. Gaddis. They spent one winter in Colorado and moved to their present home about five years ago. To this happy union of lives were born four children—Mrs. J. H. Discho and Frank C. Thiss of Colfax, Mrs. L. O. Chapman, who passed away after a lingering illness last July, and Mrs. J. E. Davison of Saybrook. The three living children were present during the last week's of their mother's illness to comfort the father in his severe trial.
The illness of the deceased dates back about fifteen months, when she began suffering with a cancer of the liver, being serious at times and causing her family much alarm, but she rallied from the first attacks, and her last and fatal attack being just sixteen weeks prior to her death, she having been confined in her bed all that time, and the end was almost daily expected for several weeks. Two weeks ago last Friday it was thought that she could not survive the night, and she seemed to realize it, and she called in about thirty of her intimate friends and talked to them and told all good-by, but the grim reaper did not claim her until Monday night, as above stated. Mrs. Thiss realized her condition and had made all the funeral arrangements. She united with the Christ church at Versailles, near Eureka, in 1875, and lived a faithful christian life. Her favorite songs were sung at the funeral service, being "Beckoning Hands," "Looking This Way," "Pass me Not," and "Beautiful City." The songs were sung by Mrs. J. P. Arnold, Mrs. R. N. Puett, R. N. Puett and E. E. Meharry. The pall bearers were the son, Frank Thiss, the sons-in-law, J. H. Discho, L. O. Chapman and J. E. Davison, and F. J. Harris and C. C. Evans. All the above funeral arrangements were ca[r]ried out as she planned.
Besides the husband she is survived by the following: J. A. Mahan, a brother, of Anderson, Indiana; Mrs. Melinda Hallam, a sister, of Eureka, Ill.; W. A. and W. W. Mahan, brothers, of Houston, Texas, and Mrs. Felix Thiss of Colfax, a sister; three children, Mrs. Discho, Frank Thiss and Mrs. Davison, and five grand-children.
Those present at the funeral from a distance were Mr. Chas. Conrard and sister, Miss Victoria, both of Metamora, being nephew and niece of Mr. Thiss; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Thiss of Fairbury; Mrs. Melinda Hallam of Eureka; L. O. Chapman and two sons of Bloomington, and J. E. Davison and family of Saybrook, and Miss Mildred Wiley of Bloomington.
4. Francois "Frank" Thiss, born July 4, 1838 in Manning, France; sometime between 1845 and 1847 his parents brought the family to America; Frank was married to ___________ _____________ on ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, __________; At the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Frank was residing in Fairbury, Illinois.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, March 28, 1913.
FRANK THISS
Mr. Frank Thiss was born in Manning, France, July 4, 1838, and passed away at his late home in Fairbury, March 24, 1913 at 7:15 p.m. at the age of 74 years 8 months 20 days.
Mr. Thiss came to this country with his parents when but a child of 7 years. They settled at Spring Bay, Ill. In 1850 they moved to Eureka. Mr. Thiss and 2 of his brothers enlisted in Co. A, 86th Ill. Reg. Inf. In July 1862; was in active service for 3 years, being in a number of severe battles; he was one of the number who marched with Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. One of his brothers was killed in a battle at Kenesaw Mountain. Mr. Thiss and his older [brother], John, at the close of the war returned to their home in Eureka, neither of them being injured in any way.
Mr. Thiss was married to Miss Hannah Sumner, Mar. 22, 1868, at Eureka. Their 45th Anniversary came last Saturday, Mar. 22. In 1870 they moved to their farm near Fairbury, where they had resided for 28 years, when they moved to town to live a retired life.
Mr. Thiss leaves to mourn his departure, besides his widow, 3 brothers, John & Felix, of Colfax, Ill., and Nicholas, of Minneapolis, Minn., 1 sister, of St. Anthony, Idaho, besides a number of relatives, and a host of friends. Mr. Thiss was a kind and loving husband, a man every day the same, gentle, kind, patient to every one. To know him was to love him. The funeral services were held from his late home on East Hickory Street, Wed., Mar. 26, at 2:30 p.m., Rev. C. D. Rapp, officiating, and the remains were laid to ret in the Fairbury cemetery.
Those attending the funeral from out of town were: John Thiss, Frank Thiss, Jr., Mr. & Mrs. Felix Thiss, Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Thiss, Mr. & Mrs. J. H. Discho, all of Colfax; Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Davidson & daughter, Louise of Saybrook; J. C. and Roy Sumner, of Pontiac; Charles Sumner, of Chicago; Mrs. Belle Roseberry, of St. Louis; Mrs. N. Thiss of Minneapolis, Minn.; Charles & Joe Conrard, Miss Victoria Conrard, Mr. & Mrs. A. J. Mason, of Metamora; and Mrs. Gorge Leonard, George Harper, of Forrest; Mr. & Mrs. Dana Y. Tewksbury, D. A. Robinson, of Kankakee; Mr. and Mrs. F. George Tate, of Pontiac.
[Buried in Graceland Cemetery, Fairbury. Has a government stone.]
Metamora Herald, Metamora, IL, March 28, 1913, Page 1, Column 4.
Early Woodford Settler Dead
Chas., J. D. and Victoria Conrard and Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Mason attended the funeral at Fairbury Wednesday of their uncle, Frank This, who died Monday. Deceased was an early settler in this county, residing for many years east of Eureka. He left this county about 35 years ago. He was 74 years old and was a soldier of the Civil war, being in the army of Gen. Sherman in the famous march to the sea. He is survived by his wife, but leaves no children.
Fairbury Blade, Fairbury, IL, April 4, 1930.
Mrs. Frank Thiss
Hannah Sumner was born in Elkhart, Indiana, March 3, 1847, and passed away at her home in this city (Fairbury) Sunday., aged 83 years and 22 days. She came to Eureka with her parnets, when about 20 years of age, and here united in marriage to Frank Thiss on March 22, 1868. In 1870 they moved to the home farm near Fairbury, where they resided for 28 years. They then moved to town to live a retired life.
Mrs. Thiss united with the Baptist church of Fairbury in 1900, 30 years ago, of which she was always a loyal member and generous supporter. Mr. Thiss preceded her in death on March 24, 1913. She leaves numerous nephews and nieces and a large number of intimate friends to mourn her loss.
Mrs. Thiss made a great many gifts to those in need which were generally unknown, and always, in an unassuming manner.
Funeral services were held at the home yesterday afternoon at 2:30 p.m., conducted by the Rev. J. D. Shorney, pastor of the Baptist church. Some of Mrs. Thiss' favorite hymns were sung by Miss Irene Denarske and Isam Travis. Interment was in Graceland cemetery.
5. Nicholas Dominique This, born ___________ __, 18__ at ____________, France; Nicholas was living in Minneapolis, Minnisota at the time of his sister, Mary's, death in 1905.
6. Victoria Thiss, born ___________ __, 18__ at ___________, France; Victoria was married to ____________ Webster on ___________ __, 18__ at __________, ___________; At the time of her sister, Mary's, death in 1905, Victoria and ____________ were residing in Kansas.
7. Felix Thiss, born March 31, 1845 in Manning France; Felix married Elizabeth Mahan on December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio; Living in Colfax, Illinois in 1905 at the time of his sister, Mary's, death; Felix died on October 26, 1914 in Colfax, Illinois.
Married Elizabeth Mahan December 7, 1871 in Bethel, Ohio
Came to America at 2 years of age.
Situated at Spring Bay, Woodford Co., 1850, then to Eureka; moved to McLean Co., 1879; next year east of Colfax.
Survived by wife; son, Charles; brothers John of Colfax, Nicholas of Minneapolis; sister, Victoria Webster of Mountain Park, OK.
Brother Charles killed in battle of Kennesaw Mt.
Brother Frank died at Fairbury.
Sister Mary Conrard died at Metamora.
Buried at Wiley Cemetery.
[Unknown newspaper source.]
MRS. ELIZABETH THISS DIED AT ST. JOSEPH'S MONDAY
Mrs. Elizabeth Thiss, aged 79 years died at St. Joseph's hospital in Bloomington on Monday afternoon after a lingering illness of several years. She had been a patient at the hospital for several weeks.
Elizabeth Mahon was born in Bethel, Ohio on July 17, 1851 where she grew to womanhood with her parents, William and Rebecca Mahon. At an early age she united with the Christian church at Bethel, Ohio. She was united in marriage to Felix Thiss on December 7, 1871 and they moved to McLean county in 1879 locating near Saybrook. In 1880 they moved to a farm east of Colfax.
Mr. Thiss passed away October 26, 1914. Mrs. Thiss was a member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Thimble club of the Christian church.
She leaves to mourn her loss one son, Charles M. and one grandson, William F. of Colfax.
The funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Colfax Christian church with Rev. Harold Willis the pastor, officiating. Burial was in the Wiley Cemetery.
In 1866, Dommique This (as both names are spelled) appears on the US IRS Tax Assessment List. He is listed in Olio Township, Eureka, Woodford County, Illinois. "Article or occupation" is listed as "carriage."
In 1870, Dominic This appears in Olio Twp., Woodford Co., IL.
Dominic This 71 Farmer France
Jane This 66 France
Philip This 25 France
[Seven family units following is...]
John This 38 Farmer France
Mary This 30 Keeps house Ills
Henry This 1 Ills
In 1880, Dominique This (as both names are spelled) is in Metamora, Woodford Co., IL.
Dominique This 83 Retired farmer France
Jane This 69 France
Victoria This 37 France
by Baxter B. Fite III, Carol Dorward, of Washington, Illinois, and Joanna Block, whose email address is [email protected]
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