Martha J. Anderson, wife of Samuel Benedictb. 16 May 1849
d.
Burial: Cottom Cemetery, Denmark, Illinois (no marker)
Martha was adopted at one year by Mr. James Anderson of Troy, Illinois.
14 Feb 1898: Martha J. Davis was appointed guardian for Alvah T. Benedict.
18 August 1892: Martha applied for widow’s pension, having two children who were still under 16 and living at home (Thomas and Alvah). At the time she indicated that her only means of support was the labor of herself and her children, and that all of her property consisted of household and kitchen furniture.
Aunt Gladys said Martha was of (unknown) American Indian heritage. (Although Tommy says Harley told him that we had American Indian blood from Tom's side of the family. Maybe it was on both sides?) Also, Aunt Gladys said Martha was very religious. Reports were that her family would come home and find her kneeling and praying at her bedside.
