Family folklore confirmed

The story always was that, besides farming and keeping various country hotels, certain people in a certain branch of the family were known as fiddlers and horse-copers. The following was found in a scrapbook of newspaper clippings of obituaries and then transcribed and posted on the Internet. Hotel-keeping, horse-dealing, and fiddling are all mentioned. "B.A.M., 73, well known musician and retired Redwood farmer, died at his home on Sunday at 4:45 a.m., after an illness of only a few hours. ... Mr. M. was born Feb. 17, 1870, son of J. and J.G.M. of Brier Hill. His father was a dealer in horses as well as operating a hotel in Brier Hill. Mr. M. was educated in the Brier Hill school and early showed much talent for music. He was able to play the violin, trombone, cello, drums, and banjo. He organized bands and orchestras in Brier Hill, Ogdensburg, Morristown, and Brockville, Canada. He also gave music lessons. Mr. M., who was a farmer, retired in 1894 and came to Redwood and operated a tavern near the Redwood railroad station, now known as the Redwood tavern. He conducted this business for several years."

On June 10, 1895, he married Miss I.C., daughter of G. H. and S.M.C., members of pioneer settlers of this area. ...

Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon with the Rev. Kenneth D. Jones, pastor of the Redwood Methodist church officiating. Burial was made in the Redwood cemetery.