Alba H. Braden, 1839-1899

Alba H. Braden

Alba H. Braden was born 7 July 1839 on the family farm near Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana.  His parents were Burr and Mary D. (Jenners) Braden.  He was probably named for his uncle, Alba Jenners.   While numerous documents confirm that Alba's middle initial is "H," I have not yet found any document that states his full middle name.

He is found with his parents and siblings on the 1850 census for the town of Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana.  He was listed as being 10 years old and having attended school during that year. 

On 6 December 1861, when Alba was 22 years old, his father, Burr died. 

Alba was mentioned in a letter from his brother, Robert (who was serving in the Army) to their sister, Sarah, dated 27 October 1862: 

"So Alba is promoted to the high office of Chief Chore Master for Mother!  I wish him joy in his new "sphere", and trust that he will learn to combine Opic cum dignitate.  I have a dim recollection - softened I am happy to say by time and distance - of what "doing up a few chores" means, "When the fall time comes" and Mother's gentle tones are heard, "Now, Alba when you are done sorting those potatoes you may take down this grape vine and cover it with corn stalks" and so on ad infinitum, and I think I see the look of "holy ineffable peace" which shadows Alba's face, as he moves with springy, elastic step to execute his welcome mission!  - And what a nice handy boy he is for such business: so quick and so industrious!" 

By January 1863, Alba was in Crawfordsville, Indiana, apparently staying with his brother, Hector and Hector's wife, Mary, when he wrote the following letter to his sister, Sarah:

 "Crawfordsville, 24th Jany  Sunday night

My Dear Sister,

Your so kind and so long looked for got here after a long time, safe and sound, but awfully soiled.  it looked as if some P.M. had rubbed his inky fingers all over it and then dropped it in the mud in trod on it.  that was all on the outside.  the inside I am happy to say was clean clear and sister like.  And I am very much obliged to you indeed for remembering to write me at all.  And will now add that I hope you will do so time & again.  I got two or three letters from home last week.  All well.  And I have some news for you, which is news.  What do you think, Bill is to be married the 1st of March.  did you ever? &c  And more.  he is to marry my Patsey.  So I reccon [sic] this is the last letter you will ever get from your heart broken brother Alba.  Pity me oh pity poor me.  The last three 1/2 lines are all stuff & bombast - for I am truly thankfull [sic] that things are as they "is".  for to tell you a fact (of which you are doubtless aware,) I never had any notion of marrying the gal nor she me. (I hope) and had come to the conclusion to tell her so, when I heard the above astounding report.  Bill writes me every week.  1st he wrote me asking release of all claims on Patsey.  I sent in my resignation.  He accepted  it thankfully.  Next letter told me how he was getting along, time of the happy event, &c &c.  Gene [?] and Anna wrote me last week, telling me of some of his talk, which sounds just like him. Here is a sample.  he says he will not go on a bridal-tour, but will get spliced about noon, take dinner, and then go down to the farm.  Says he must get the chills broken ere that time, as marrying is very trying on a man, and the two combined will finish him entirely.  I would not miss being up there at the occasion for worlds, nor would you if you could only get there, but never mind I will try and send you a report of the time in full.  I got a letter from Coz Ann & Bettie.  They report all well.  Bettie is coming up here soon to go up home with me.  says she is very sorry that you can't be up there at the same time.  so am I.  You remember I told you how you would miss me when I went away.  I hope you have for I have missed you of an evening when I sit here all alone and I would love to see you dearly.  When are you coming back.  you did not say one word about it.  I got a letter from Rob last eve.  all well.  he was at Fayetteville were ordered to march the next morning at 8 a.m. thought they would go to Little Rock, I hope so to, for then we could hear oftener & sooner.  Goodby & write me soon.  Mary sends her best love & Heck to.  Likewise your affect. Bro  Ab"



The "Patsey" referred to in Alba's letter is probably his brother William's first wife, Martha Hester Campbell, who married William in March 1863 and died in December 1863 of "consumption."



On 5 September 1863, Alba's mother, Mary D. (Jenners) Braden died.  Alba was 24.

Alba lived for most of his adult life in Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana.  He never married and we know of no children.

On the 1870 census for Crawfordsville, he is shown in the household of Eli Wilhite, probably as a boarder, and is listed as 31 years old and an "express agent."  On the 1880 census for Crawfordsville, Alba is listed as a lodger in the household of D. W. Wilson: "Braden, A.H., wm 41, Lodger, Single, Agent Met & Am Express."  I have not yet found Alba on the 1860 census; he is not listed with his parents and siblings in Clinton Co.

On 20 November 1893, Alba wrote the following to his brother, William: 

"Crawfordsville, Ind.  Nov 20/93

My dear Brother,

Your's of the 18th inst, duly rec'd & contents noted.  Enclosed I hand you dft for $200.- as per request and trust it will reach you in good time.  I hope you & your family are all well.  Give my love to all, and be good to your self -
        As ever & ever   your bro  A.H."

On 4 January 1895, Alba wrote to his brother, William's wife and daughter:

"Crawfordsville, Ind.  Jany 4/95

Dear Laura & Mary,
I expected to write you long ago, thanking you for your kind Christmas remembrance, but the truth is I have been so busy that have not had time to do near so much as I wanted to do.  The cup & saucer you so kindly sent me will come very handy when I go to housekeeping and will always remind me of Laura, who gave it - when ever I drink my coffee.  And for you dear Mary, that cake was tiptop.  You certainly must have taken early lessons from your Mama.  It was my favorite kind of cake and was most excellent.
I am glad to learn that William & Rob. are getting along so well, even they have the horse business to keep them busy.
I am obliged to you for invitation, and no preventing Providence, I will certainly get up to see you all this coming summer.
We have had nice winter weather until the last two weeks which have been quite cold --
Love to all and a great deal for both of you,
As ever, your brother   Alba"

By about November 1898, Alba's health was not good and he had moved to Frankfort, Indiana to live with his sister, Sarah D. (Braden) Clark, at 408 E. Clinton St.

On 9 September 1899, Anna Braden sent the following note to her brother, Will, regarding their brother, Alba.  The envelope was addressed to Mr. William M. Braden, Frankfort, Indiana and postmarked at Frankfort, Ind. on Sept 9 '89.  The note follows:  

"Frankfort Ind  Friday 8
Dear Brother Will -
Dear brother Alba began sinking very fast last eve, his cough & the mucus [sic] is so troublesome can not raise anything himself.  He can not endure much longer.  I write this that you may get it & come over when you receive it.
With love from [unreadable word]    Sister Annie"

Alba H. Braden died at 2:00 p.m. on 9 September 1899 at the home of John G. and Sarah (Braden) Clark, 408 E. Clinton St., Frankfort, Indiana.  He was buried at Springvale Cemetery, Lafayette, Indiana.

The following obituary appeared in the Crawfordsville Weekly Journal for 15 September 1899 (page 9, col. 3):

 

Sarah Deborah Braden (1835-1915) and her husband, John G. Clark

Sarah Deborah Braden was born 21 September 1835 on the family farm near Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana, and was the daughter of Burr and Mary (Jenners) Braden.  The family seems to have usually called her "Debbie."

She is not listed with the family on the 1850 census, but since she would have only been 15, I suspect she was just missed.  The 1860 census for Clinton Co. shows her with her parents and gives her age as 25.

On 6 December 1861, Sarah's father, Burr, died.  On 26 December 1861, Sarah Deborah married John Gilkeson Clark in Clinton Co., Indiana.  The Clark family was listed next door to the Bradens on the 1850 census and so John and Sarah grew up as neighbors.

John G. Clark was born in February 1836 in Virginia.  His parents, Dr. John M. and Sarah V. Clark, moved from Virginia to Indiana about 1837.  John G. Clark rose to the rank of Colonel when he served in the Civil War from Indiana.

John G. Clark

On 5 September 1863, Sarah's mother, Mary, died.  On 26 February 1864, Sarah and John's son, Addison Braden Clark, was born.

Apparently, after her mother died, Sarah took her younger siblings into her home.  On the 1870 census, besides John, Sarah, and Addison Clark, the household also included Sarah's brother, Addison B. Braden, and her sister, Lucy J. Braden.  On the 1880 census, Sarah, John, and Addison Clark were living in Frankfort, Indiana.

The household on the 1900 census was:  Clark, John G, head, wm, born Feb 1836, 64, married 39 years; Clark, Sarah D, wife, wf, born May 1836, married 39 years, 1 child born & living; Clark, Braden, son, wm Feb 1863, 37, salesman.  Also Irene Hedley, 18, servant.  They were living in Frankfort.  On the 1910 census, they were living at 408 E. Clinton St. in Frankfort;  the household was listed as: Clark, John G., head, 74, married 1 time for 49 years; Sarah B., wife, 74, married 1 time for 49 years, 1 child, 1 living; Braden A., son, 46, single.

John G. Clark died 28 December 1910 at his home in Frankfort, Indiana.  He was buried at Greenlawn Cemetery, Frankfort.

Sarah Deborah (Braden) Clark died 6 June 1915 at her home in Frankfort, Indiana.  She was buried at Greenlawn Cemetery, Frankfort.

Their son, Addison Braden Clark, attended law school at the University of Michigan.  He never married and had no children.  He died 24 September 1917 of a stroke in Sault St. Marie, Michigan.   He was buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, Frankfort, Indiana.

To date, I have found no pictures of Sarah D. (Braden) Clark or Addison Braden Clark.

Captain Robert Floyd Braden, 1833-1877

Robert Floyd Braden was born 21 September 1833 on the Braden farm near Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana.  He was the fourth child of Burr and Mary Braden, but only the second child to live past infancy.  He was probably named for his paternal grandfather, Robert Braden, and his paternal uncle, Robert Braden, who had died of cholera a few months before Robert Floyd was born.  It apparently took Burr and Mary a little while to decide on his name since Burr's brother Addison reported that until Burr and Mary decided on a name for their new son, his father, Burr, called him "Pete."  He was well and about one month old when he was mentioned in letter from Joseph Addison Braden to his sister Elizabeth.

He is mentioned in a family letter  written 1 April 1834: "the baby...is not very healthy although it looks so."  According to a letter written by Ann Jenners on 1 August 1834: "Mary's boys grow finely.  The youngest is one of the handsomest children I have ever seen."  According to a letter written 30 August 1834 by Joseph Addison Braden, "Bob is the finest boy in all this country."  And according to Ann Jenners Jennings in a letter dated 15 February 1835: "Mary's little boys grow finely.  Bob is a beauty."



Robert is found with his parents and siblings on the 1850 census living near the town of Jefferson in Clinton Co., Indiana.  He was 16 and had attended school that year.  In 1851 and 1852, he attended Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana, where he was in the Prep School department and the scientific department during the academic year.  He lived in a dormitory on campus.


On 7 December 1852, he was commissioned 2nd Lt. of Company 6 in the 3rd Regiment of the 8th Mulberry District of the national guard of the State of Indiana to serve six years.  His commission paper was signed by Joseph A. Wright, Governor of Indiana.  He was 19 years old.

On 9 July 1855, Robert wrote the following letter (*see note below) to his sister, Sarah Deborah:
 "Jefferson, July 9, 1855        Your letter came Saturday, dear Deb, and none too soon for your good let me tell you.  But it did come then and let me tell you the truth, I have been determining for some time to give you an awful scolding for not writing some to me;  Father has worked himself into a perfect passion and every mail would ask in a rush and say - "Well I'll not put my self to the trouble of writing her again if that's the way she treats my letters." All this wrath was reserved [?] for you, when your letter comes and lo! the tables are turned at once and instead of "jumping" you, I am compelled to  [unreadable] amend [?] for my deed, glad if I can escape without being [unreadable] therefore "I think you are a real naughty boy, " Cool! busy?  A nice way to commence a letter to your loving Brother, who has been torturing [?] hiself [sic] to death for a year for [two unreadable words].  After making Pa worry for two weeks, your answer to his letter which was rather short both in matter & news, but that is alone attributable to the [unreadable] of the [unreadable].  [several unreadable words] a "settling down." And then, not content with that, but must even take up Sue's arrival, and rate me roundly for disclosing the fact of my being the bearer of a "ring" from the said Hubbard to Sue. But I have the advantage of you there, my dear girl, for it was your fault that I tried this for had you not told me such an awful _____ I mean had not told but that Mr Hubbard and her were both married and go with you to VA (which statement I wrote to Coz Suzzie) I would not have written any thing concerning it, but give my apology to Coz Suzzie for my former statement.  this came in as a matter of course, - not considering it anything a secret when two women hear of it, I took no care of it. But I got caught nicely.  Happening down at the [unreadable] the same night I recv'd it, I handed your letter to Sue to peruse, without once thinking of this content[?].  I sat there waiting patiently for her to get through with your epistle (by the way, write a little more plainly next time, for your matter don't pay unless the chirography is fair (I'll get a blessing for that)) when all at once I am awakened from a profound reverie by an awful slap on the face.  I could not for a moment contrive what was the matter, But Sue's "Now Mr Bob Braden, how dared you tell that," brought me up "standing," and I could do nothing but beg pardon and promise to do it no more, which promise I intend to keep most religiously - till I find out something else still, But I owe you one for this, and I could scarcely refrain from telling Sue how I happened to find out "who made that proposal," more especially when she went into a long dissertation on the difference of people in regard to keeping secrets, and chose to arrange you illustrated the class that could and I the --other. I was down to Crawfordsville a short time since on a visit   I got there at a [unreadable] and was compelled to return to J[?] that evening and was sorry that Hec had an engagement as I wished to see him [unreadable] but he could not stay.  "They" say that his marriage with Mati is a settled thing, and you may expect shortly to see in the City papers, the announcement: "Married on the --inst, Mr. H.S. Braden Esq'r, by the Grace of God, and his own good Etc., to Miss Elston, daughter of Major Elston "[several unreadable words] "The happy pair &c, &c---"    The Fourth was celebrated by the good people of our town at Kirklin from the fact that the Lord Templars had some kind of a "fixing" at that place.  It was rather a grand affair, but as I and mother [unreadable] of [unreadable] it, I can not give you a description of the proceedings.  We are still having a delightful time with the "housebreakers" and it is no uncommon thing for a house to be broken open once or twice a week.  Mother has prophesied that some one will get in her stores but I can't get her to [several unreadable words]  She is looking rather thin, but I supposed it was on acct of the [unreadable] all you took mother [unreadable] of the last.  Bro Hubbard writes very regularly and that is a great comfort.  Now you must, my dear sister, write soon and often to me and the family, for we do indeed miss you very much and the only way to console us is to write that you are enjoying yourself.  The [unreadable] are all very wild, and [unreadable]  I hear that you are enjoying yourself so much.  They all send their love.  You must answer Fathers letter or he will never forgive you for what he deems are awful in others but does not even remind him much of himself.  love to all.  Tell [unreadable] I will write to her if she will answer.  Write soon  With much love, Your Brother Robt."

In October 1855, Robert ran for Clinton County Auditor, but lost the election.

On 9 August 1861, Robert was commissioned to serve in the 26th Regt, Co. B, Indiana Volunteer Militia.  He was originally commissioned as a first Lt. by Gov. Oliver P. Morton and later was promoted to Captain.    By 22 September 1861, he was away from home serving in the Union Army stationed in Booneville, Missouri.  It seems from some of the family letters, that he signed up and left without telling his parents he was joining the Army.

Over the course of the Civil War, Bob wrote many letters home to his family.  A number of his letters to his mother are preserved as photocopies by the Indiana Historical Society.  They are interesting, but too lengthy to include them all here.

From the dates and addresses on the letters, it seems that Robert spent about the first year of his service in various places in Missouri.  He often wrote of wanting to get a leave of absence to visit home, but it does not appear that he was ever able to accomplish it.

On December 6, 1861, Robert's father, Burr Braden, died.  Robert was stationed in Sedalia, Missouri.    On 21 December, Robert wrote home to his sister, Sarah, after learning of their father's, death.  The letter (*see note below) reads:  "My dear Sister: I cannot say anything to comfort you in this our first great grief, but my anxiety is none the less to hear from you.  Why have you not written me?  I heard about one week since through Major Clark of our loss and again from Annie Jenners and Albie.  When I first received Major Clark's letter my intention was to return immediately home, let the consequences be what they might, but that night we received marching orders and since then we have been on - what we expected - the eve of a battle ever since.  The absence of Captain Logan left me in command of the Company, and I could not, without being cashiered and branded as a coward, leave my command.  You will see from the papers what the troops have been doing and though our Regiment took no part in the affray, having been placed on one of the roads to prevent the rebels from escaping, we had quite a hard time on the forced march and standing picket duty, as it has been quite cold with a slight fall of snow.  They have just brought in the prisoners - some 1300 - with a large amount of arms, tents, mules, and wagons.  It is the most severe blow the Secessionists have had in Missouri.  The excitement and labor, consequent upon our movements, has been of great advantage diverting my mind from the sad loss we have received, though in my tent at night his dear face seems always present, that same calm, spiritual look upon it which it bore when I last saw him.  I cannot realize that he is indeed gone - it seems impossible.   We again have orders to march, where I know not.  Captain Logan will be home ere this reaches you.  I send my dague - the first I have had an opportunity of having taken since I left.  You will see I have not fallen away.  Give much love to dear mother and all the family for me.  In haste, your affectionate brother, Robert."

From October 1862 to January 1863, Robert was stationed in Arkansas.  It appears that he fought in the Battle of Prairie Grove.

He was back in Missouri for several months in 1863, then sent via Vicksburg, Mississippi to New Orleans.

His mother, Mary Braden, died 5 September 1863.  It appears that Robert never got back home to visit her after he enlisted.

In September 1864, Robert was serving as Provost Marshall of the District of Baton Rouge, Gulf of Mexico and stationed in New Orleans.  He served there until he was honorably discharged in June 1865.

After his service in the war, he returned to Clinton Co., Indiana.  He was listed as "Robert F ae 32" on the 1866 "Enumeration Schedule of White & Colored Men Age 21 & Over" in Washington Twp., Clinton Co., Indiana.

By 1870, he had moved to Lafayette, Tippecanoe Co., Indiana.  He is found on the 1870 census living with the family of Lemuel A. Huff.  He was listed as follows:  "R. F. Braden, age 36, male, white, Clerk in Store, $2,000 real estate; born in Indiana."

Between 1872 and September 1877,  Robert worked as the assistant cashier for First National Bank of Lafayette for about 5 years until the cashier retired, and Robert took his place.  A new cashier was appointed Sept. 22, 1877, which may mean Robert was too ill to work any longer.

Robert never married.

Robert F. Braden died on 12 October 1877 in Lafayette, Indiana, of "congestion of the stomach."  He was only 44 years old.

An obituary appeared in an unidentified Lafayette newspaper:  "Obituary.  We are called upon to announce the death of our esteemed fellow citizen, Robert Braden, Esq., which took place at half-past 8 o'clock o the morning of Friday last, 12th inst.  The deceased was taken sick two weeks prior to his death, his disease soon assuming an acute form, and developing into typho-malaria.  Subsequently hemorrhage ensued, resulting fatally as above stated.  Mr. Braden enjoyed an enviable reputation as a citizen and business man, his career being marked by courtesy and strict integrity towards all with whom he had dealings, and in no way was it more signally manifest, than during the many years that he acted as Teller of the First National Bank.  he was at one time largely engaged in the stock and grain trade, and during the war of the rebellion, made an honorable record in the Union army.  He was unmarried but leaves brothers and sisters who deeply mourn his untimely death.  His remains will be interred in Spring Vale Cemetery.  Funeral services from the residence of his brother-in-law, Mr. Horatio Jennings, No. 58 North Fifth street, this afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Rev. Chas. J. Clawson, of Grace Church, officiating."

He was buried in Springvale Cemetery, Lafayette, Indiana.

* A Note About Robert's letters:  The originals have been lost to the family.  The above letters are taken from transcriptions done 1932-1965 by Vera (Healey) Braden while the letters were in her possession.

 

Elizabeth Virginia Braden, 1829-1830

I don't usually do blog posts about infants who died, but Elizabeth Virginia Braden intrigues me.

Elizabeth was the first child born to Burr Braden and his wife, Mary Dulin (Jenners) Braden.  Burr and Mary were married on 29 March 1827, probably in Maryland, and started west from Virginia with Mary's family in the fall of 1828.

By the winter of 1828-1829, the travelers were in Dayton, Ohio.  Perhaps they decided to spend the winter in Dayton because of Mary's pregnancy.  Elizabeth Virginia Braden was born in Dayton, Ohio on 13 January 1829. 

In the spring of 1829, the family resumed their trip west, finally settling in Lafayette, Indiana.  They were certainly in Lafayette in July 1829 when Mary received a letter from her friend, Sarah Hough in Waterford, Virginia.  This letter indicates that the baby, Elizabeth, was ill.

Elizabeth was mentioned as "our dear little babe" in a letter written by her father, Burr, to her mother, Mary, in September 1829.  Burr had gone back to Virginia to settle some affairs there. 

In January 1830, Elizabeth's Aunt Nancy (Mary's sister) wrote a letter home to her friend, Elizabeth in Waterford, Virginia, in which she says this about the baby, Elizabeth Virginia:  "Mary is almost worn out with her little babe, which is still very poorly and does not think weighs more than six pounds.  It does not sleep any barely at night." 

At this time, Burr and Mary were still in Lafayette, Indiana, but Burr was planning on moving to "the country" in the spring.  This would be the move to the Jefferson area of Clinton Co., Indiana.

On 14 May 1830, Elizabeth Virginia Braden died, probably at Lafayette.  She was about 18 months old.  Her grave has not been found.  Hers would have been one of the early burials in the new town of Lafayette and many of those graves and their stones (if there ever was one) are no longer to be found.

Except for the references in the family letters (which do not actually name the baby), my information on this child comes from an old family document provided to me by another Braden descendant.  This handwritten document appears to be a copy of another earlier document, perhaps a family Bible record.  The handwriting may be that of a granddaughter of Burr and Mary, Mary Jane Braden, daughter of their son, William.  While I have found no primary evidence to prove the dates for Elizabeth Virginia found on that document, it should be noted that most of the other dates and information found there have been verified and are accurate.  This leads me to trust that the information on Elizabeth Virginia is also correct.

I hope someday to find something to verify the information on her, but realize it is probably unlikely.

Keeping Up With the Joneses: Margaret (Jones) Hofmann and family

John Allen & Margaret (Jones) Hofmann and children.    Left to Right: John A., Christine, Phil, Jim, John, Margaret.   (Photo taken in Wooster, Ohio.  Date unknown.  Probably ca 1925)

Margaret Victoria Jones was the first daughter of John Roberts Jones.  She was his only child by his first wife, Victoria Hamilton Jones.  Margaret was born 16 February 1888 and her mother died giving birth to her.  Margaret was sent to live with her maternal grandparents, James & Susan Hamilton, in Blue Earth, Minnesota.  In 1892, when Margaret was 4, her father married a second time to Mary Elva Stillwell.

Margaret became a teacher and in 1913, she traveled to China as a Presbyterian missionary.  While in China, she met Dr. John Allen Hofmann and they were married at the Second Presbyterian Church in Canton, China, on 15 December 1915.

John Hofmann was born in Germany and immigrated to the United States in June 1887. 

John and Margaret had the following children:  John Robert (born 1916), Christine (born 1918), James Hamilton (born 1920), and Harold Philip (born 1921).  I believe all the children (except perhaps Harold Philip) were born in China.  When not in China, the family lived in Wooster, Ohio.

Dr. Hofmann died in China about 1933 and sometime after that Margaret and the children returned to Wooster, Ohio. 

Margaret died in Los Angeles, California on 22 June 1980.  All of her children are also now deceased.

I would be happy to give this photograph to a descendant, if contacted.

Hankinson Attic Photos: Bill & Cora Heley

William & Cora (Olson) Heley & family

This photo found in the attic of the John R. Jones house in Hankinson, North Dakota is identified as Bill and Cora (Olson) Heley.  Mrs. Heley was identified as Mary Carol Jones' second grade teacher.  Her obit states that she had been a school teacher in North Dakota.

I found the family on the 1930 census in Fergus Falls, Minnesota.  That matches the photo studio location.  The census shows Will and Cora Heley with their children Frances (11), Raymond (9) and Dorothy (7).  They were still in Fergus Falls on the 1940 census.  The 1920 census shows the family in Brightwood, Richland Co., North Dakota.  Only the oldest daughter, Frances, was born at that time, but living with them was Cora's sister, Margarite Olson.  This is, I believe, the Margarite that was a girlfriend of Harold Jones.  Margarite was listed as a teacher in grade school.

This is probably the William A. Heley born 15 November 1886 in North Dakota.  On his 1917 draft registration, he is married and states that he is a partner in a lumber firm in Hankinson.  I wonder if he was a partner with John R. Jones?  He died 29 May 1976 in Fergus Falls. 

Cora (Olson) Heley was born 26 February 1886 in North Dakota and died in Fergus Falls, Minnesota on 28 December 1973.

The original of this photo has been given to a family member and is no longer in my possession.

Hector Saurin Braden (1830 - 1912) and his wife, Mary (Elston) Braden

Hector Saurin Braden was born on 22 November 1830 in Clinton Co., Indiana, the oldest son of Burr and Mary (Jenners) Braden.  He was probably named for two of his uncles:  Hector Wright Braden (brother of his father, Burr) and James Saurin Jenners (brother of his mother, Mary).  On 8 September 1831, Hector was described as having blue eyes and fair hair.  His mother wrote: "Our little boy grows fast, can crall [sic] over the floor & said to resemble your family, has blue eyes and light hair."  His nickname was “Hec” or “Heck.”

In a letter dated 6 June 1832 from Ann Jenners to Elizabeth W. Braden, Hector was described as healthy.  Ann said he could "... talk considerable."  In a letter dated 20 January 1833, Ann wrote to Elizabeth that, Burr "has given her [Mary] a fine son [Hector] who loves his papa and Grandma [Deborah Young Jenners] better than anybody else."

In a letter dated 15 April 1833, Ann Jenners wrote to Elizabeth Braden, "Little Hector is as smart a child as I ever saw.  He loves his Papa better than he does his mother."  On 17 November 1833, Ann wrote to Elizabeth that "Mary's children grow finely.  Hector has had the chills.... Burr is very well and looks like the other Hoosiers."

On 23 April 1835, Ann Jenners wrote to Elizabeth Braden that "The children grow quick.  Mary has learned Hector until he can spell in five letters...."  Hector was four years old.

Hector’s father, Burr, ran a store and post office in Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana and Hector worked there while growing up.  Between 1849 and 1851, Hector studied at Wabash College, Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana. 

He appeared on the census of 1850 in the household of Burr Braden in Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana. The household consisted of the following:  Burr, age 47, merchant, $6050 value of real estate, born VA; Mary, age 41, born VA; Hector, m, age 19, merchant, born IN, attended school that year; Robert, m, age 16, born IN, attended school that year; William, m, age 12, born IN, attended school that year; Alba, m, age 10, born IN, attended school that year; Mary J., f, age 8, born IN, attended school that year; Addison B., m, age 6, born IN, attended school that year; Fanny M., f, age 3, born IN.

So far, I have found no photographs of Hector.  However, the family does have a photo taken in Crawfordsville that is identified as "Hector Braden's dog."  I am guessing the legs and feet are Hector's.

Hector attended the mercantile college in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1851.  On 30 November 1851 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Hector wrote a letter to his mother, Mary. The letter follows: 

"Cincinnati, Sunday Nov 30, 1851      

Dear Mother,   It's now the seventh day since I left home, to try my frail bark on the great & ever shifting ocean of life, & in that time I have experienced various vicitudes.  I had a most painful & unpleasant trip from Kirklin to Indianapolis & indeed I fear that I am affected by it yet, for my right knee has pained me so much & is so sore that it is with great pain that I change my position - but I hope it is nothing serious & will be better in a few days.  I am now writing in the sitting room of my boarding house, where I have taken up my abode for the present, I pay two dollars and a half for board & a bed to sleep in & I hear talk of its being raised to 2 3/4.  If it should I shall strike, for it is just as hard a place as I can stand on several accounts at present rates.  No good boarding can be obtained in the city for less than 4 dollars per week or more if fire & lights are furnished.  I shall however put up with any & everything, for I can do it, as I am determined to do something or other.  I was very pleasantly rec'd by Mr. Neff & sons & have no doubt that they will treat me right if I do as I should. Mr. Morrison one of the house will most likely be out your way in some ten days or two weeks.  I have been on very much of a study to determine what to do in regard to attending Mercantile college.  About half say go & the other half say no & I am between hawk & buzzard.  Mr. Neff says he does not think much of it, but yet thinks I had better go as it will benefit me a little at least.  Now I don’t feel much like paying $50 for tuition & some $40 for board if it is only to benefit me a little; tell papa to let me have his advice as soon as possible.  I had determined to start tomorrow & will yet do so if I can make some arrangement so as to pay only for the time I go.  I miss a light & fire at night very much at night as I have no place to read or write for I cannot go down to the store on two or three accounts.  1st the store is closed & next I am afraid to run around at night as not a night hardly passes that someone is not knocked down & robbed or beat nearly to death, & as to staying in the parlor with the other Borders, I do not like it, for there is nothing in the house to read & their only amusement is playing checkers - or what you would call worse.  But as I said before I will try & do the best I can.  I feel the need of time piece also very much, as I have to go to my meals at a certain hour each time in the day - or go without & also have to be at the school & store at a certain time - as all the clerk's have their stated times to go & return from meals.  I wish you would enclose & send me twenty five or thirty dollars, which will get me as good an one as I need - at least it will do for the present.  I to day went to the Wesley chapel & heard the Rev. Dr. Durbin deliver a most able discourse from the first clause of the 17 teenth chap 1st Corinthians.  He is the most carefull [sic] to cou[can't read word] reasons & most lucid explainer that I ever heard & yet he is the plainest man you ever heard.  He makes no attempt at display & yet he displays more real talent & ability than any man who preaches in this city.  The house was densely crowded from aisles to galleries.  Many seats & chairs were carried in, yet numbers stood up in the aisles & lobby.  After the discourse a collection was taken up for the Foreign Missionary society.  The Dr. lectures on the subject of missions on next Thursday night.  This morning I walked down to the River before breakfast, with Mr. Morrison - who went after his sister, who was expected from Louisville & while on the boat who should come in view but my old friend & school mate Wm Pool.  I was very glad to see him, & he was us.  We talked our old times and doings & among others the name of John McClelland was mentioned.  I went to church & after, I went to the Dennison House to see villain [? not sure of word], who should I see but Wm & the said John seated in the corner in earnest conversation.  Our recognition was mutual & cordial.  It was like an oasis in a desert.  Wm is on his way home & by him shall send this letter.  John remains in this city.  I have written all that I think worthy of mention.  Has Debby gone to school?  How has Mack got?  How did the concert go off?  Give my love to all the children & feed Jim & tell Bill & papa to take good care of Kate.  Please answer my inquires & grant my request & believe me your obt & loving son      H. S. Braden

P.S.  Do not think me dissatisfied for however much I may dislike things, I am determined to be satisfied.             Heck."

On 15 January 1852 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Hector wrote to his father, Burr. The letter follows: "Cincinnati, Jany 15th, 1852

Dear Father,    Agreeably to my promise to Mother in my letter written on Sunday - which you have not yet rec'd, I now try to write to you again to give you the history of my case.  Since Sunday there has not been much - if any change in my case that I can divine - I have sometimes felt better & the worse.  I have not lain in bed all of any day - for they make me get up so that they can make the bed & clean the room.  I have not yet been able to loose my cough - & consequently the pain in my breast & sides is still as severe as ever.  I have taken large quantities of all favorite remedies - but without benefit - for instance, I took 3/4 an oz Ant wine in two hours, & it only produced slight nausea & had no effect on my cold.  I next fore noon took 1 oz syrup of Squibb & 1/2 oz of Ant Wine - yet they did no good.  I have made two lots of Mothers syrup - & in the last one put instead of her form 3/4 oz Ant Wine, 1/2 oz Paregoric, 1 oz Gum Arabic & 1 oz Liquorice - yet with all this tartar &c I am satisfied that every time I took it it tightened my cough.  I can account for this in no way.  Sometimes my cough seems a little loose in the morning - but getting in a room where there has been no fire for weeks, to dress with the Thermometer at or below zero - makes it tighter than ever, if possible.  It has been remarked to me by one or two of the boarders "What a place to be sick" & so I find it.  Last night I requested some hot water to bathe my feet, thinking it might help me.  They said it would be ready, on sending for it, the fire was out & the water cold & I had to go with out - for Aaron (who they seem to think is all the assistance I need) would not hear of warming more.  He is very willing sometimes to do any little thing - but he is so thoughtless & has so many trumps & schemes of his own that he is as much annoyance as advantage.  This cold hurts me more under the present than it would under some other situations - for I am here paying heavy expenses, loosing time, will not be ready for examination, my mind unsettled as to my course after getting through school for since my sickness I have imbibed a violent dislike to this city & vowed to leave it at the end.  All these together are not healing balms for constant meditation.  But enough of this cant.  The fore part of the week was very cold, so much so that the Steam Boats were stopped for the past two days by the ice - in consequence of which my letters mailed by you on Monday did not reach me when due (this morning).  The sleighing was fine from Sat - till yesterday.  I suppose they had some of the same sport at N. Orleans, as there was 11 inches now there on or about the tenth.  It has been moderating here for the past two days & we now have indications of a thaw.  As this is the Seventh day since I have been confined to the house I can give you no items of trade or anything else.  I have not been able to read with any comfort either for when I coughed it seemed though I could not endure it.  The most acute & severe pain I have had has been in my head - & the times that I felt better was when partially free from this.  You would have hardly knowed me for last week for I have been a most wretched looking object - unwashed, unshaved, uncombed, no change of linen - for I did not dare venture to do so in that miserable cold room.  This morning I procured some hot water & bathed my feet lying in bed & drank some hot sage tea & put my head under a mountain of stinking comforts - (for to my knowledge there is not a blanket in the house) & there sweat for near an hour - till I was wet all over.  I then had the covering removed gradually & let it evaporate.  My shirt smelt [can't make out next word] & I looked like I had been through a bleaching mill.  I got up went to a fire & washed & dressed this afternoon, a sip of water every 4 or 5 minutes - Mr. Morrison's prescription.  He has been very kind.   Now I must stop.  Tell mother, who I hope is much better by this time, to write me when conv't.  Bob to write weekly & send the news paper.  Give my love to all the children & tell them to be good.  Take good care of Kate.  Write as you find it suitable or conv't & believe me truly you ob't & loving son     Hector

You will get this on next Wednesday - the one I wrote Mother day after tomorrow - Sat.              H

The influenzah [sic] is prevailing here to a great extent.                                   H."

Hector graduated in 1853 from the mercantile college, Cincinnati, Ohio.  After graduation, he moved to Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana.  In Crawfordsville, Hector became a partner in the firm of Lee, Gilkey & Co. which built a large elevator and did business of 50,000-75,000 bushels of grain and 15,000 barrels of flour annually between 1853 and 1863.

Hector's upcoming marriage to Mary Elston was mentioned in a letter dated 9 July 1855 from his brother, Robert, to their sister, Sarah: "I was down to Crawfordsville a short time since on a visit.   I got there at a [unreadable] and was compelled to return to J[?] that evening and was sorry that Hec had an engagement as I wished to see him [unreadable] but he could not stay.  "They" say that his marriage with Mati is a settled thing, and you may expect shortly to see in the City papers, the announcement: "Married on the --inst, Mr. H.S. Braden Esq'r, by the Grace of God, and his own good Etc., to Miss Elston, daughter of Major Elston "[several unreadable words] "The happy pair &c, &c---."

On 4 July 1858 in Omaha, Nebraska, Hector wrote a letter to his father, Burr. The letter follows:  "Omaha, July 4th, 1858

My dear Father     Your kind letter of June 21 came to hand yesterday and besides it's being the longest letter I have ever known you to write - (for which compliment I'm much obliged) I was also glad to hear that farming prospects are improving, and I still hope to hear that the season will yet be sufficiently late to insure you good crops of corn.  But in relation to what I am doing let me say that I would not have gone into business at all could I have afforded to remain here idle, for I do not consider the times such as would justify a man doing business for the purpose of making money, for so far as I know the majority of the business men of this place and everywhere else (dry goods men) are struggling to pay expenses.  I took an interest in this firm in order to pay my expenses, and nothing else, and I think we have done so up to this time - whether we can do so from this on remains to be seen.  In the last three weeks our trade has been down considerable, going one day as low as $40 - yesterday we sold $164 and thus it has been since I was here.   We sell for cash only - trusting nobody and it is the only place I know of where one could do business and not trust someone but here the population is so generally transient that no one can get mad if you refuse to credit them.  Men are hard up here.  You never knew a place where money was as generally scarce for persons who think themselves worth twenty five thousand dollars are very much troubled to buy the necessities of life.  Men here are buying nothing but what they are compelled to have, and as it will be four months before the corn crop comes into market - the only grain of any amount that will be raised this season - they will not have much money to buy even this with.  There are no real estate speculations going on now - no lands changing hands except for debt and I do not suppose that any one has money here to invest in lands, and all are awaiting with much impatience the 6th of September which is to bring them someone to buy their lands. A considerable portion of the inhabitants of this Territory is that roving class of persons always found on a frontier who squat on a piece of land with no intention of remaining there but will sell out at the first opportunity and go further west. -  My idea of the matter is first this, Get a Map and you will see that Omaha stands some 12 miles north of the mouth of the Platte River, a stream that is unfordable [sic] and at wet seasons is dangerous to pass even in a ferry boat.  It is by far the largest town in the Territory north of the Platte and the only rival she has is Nebraska City, and it being South of the Platte does not interfere with Omaha's trade.  Omaha is to all the Territory north of the Platte what Winchester Va was to the Valley and we have sold a considerable amount of goods to little traders who took them up the river and back in the interior a hundred miles or more.  It is also on the best route to California & Utah and the town sells a good many goods to the trains going over.  We sold one company some $400 - they were Mormons.  It is only from this fact that there is anything doing here at all, but now Omaha handles about all the money that is used in the Territory - which is not very much.  Now this may continue, or it may not, I don't pretend to say whether it will or not, but some town north of the Platte must sell the goods and handle the produce for a large extent of country, and as Omaha has had a tremendous amount of money expended on it in the way of buildings, and is also the Capitol of the Territory, it is natural to conclude that she would stand as fair a chance as towns that have not got any houses in them yet, and are only to be seen on paper. Another advantage is that she is directly opposite Council Bluffs and the towns are working together very hard to procure a Rail Road of which I send a paper which will tell you what they are doing in the matter.  Now I do not think that will be worth a $100 per acre here in a year or two or in a long time, but I think this, It is on a stream that is navigable from March till November, 20 cts will ship corn to St. Louis - a better market than Cincinnati, - and besides that has a [unreadable] and to emigrants & trains & United States troops that will keep up the price of all kinds of grain.    [no signature]    [written upside down in corner of first page:] You say DN Clark paid you $5.46  John writes me he paid $6.46."

By 1860, Hector was back in Crawfordsville when he appeared on the census in Hotel Virginia House, Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana. He was shown as H. S. Braden, age 29, produce merchant, real property $1,100 and personal property $2,400, born Indiana; living at the Hotel Virginia House. 

Hector worked an internal revenue service collector during President Lincoln's administration.

On 24 September 1861, Hector wrote a letter to his mother, Mary. Hector was in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and his mother was in Jefferson, Indiana.  The letter reads: 

"Crawfordsville, Sept. 24th, 1861.     My Dear Mother, Yesterday morning's mail bro't me your welcome & affct letter, written on sat'day, & while I was glad to hear from you all, yet I can never but feel a deep tinge of sadness injected [?] with my emotions when news from home has to come so weighted with acct's of Father's sad condition.  From letters to Alba, & his reports of them to me, I had been hoping Father was really improving, & indeed, after reading your history of his present condition, it does seem to me that a proper & [unreadable] followed with treatment would overcome those night sweats, now that chills & fever have disappeared & appetite returned.  Is he still using that [unreadable]? Be sure to not let him get out of it.  The address by which to order more you will on card, on end of Keg.  I, of course, would be at home if I could, but I am tied here now, as if with chains, & can't leave for some time yet, unless very urgent, but will come almost any day, if absolutely necessary, say to him I will do so, & come informed all about his bus., & give it all the attention possible at the earliest moment.  I think there will be no sale for mules at all this fall, if any will be at very low prices [?] say 18 cents to 25 cents & I regard it a good fall to buy, if prepared to winter them.  The demand for Mules, old enough to work is good, & must continue so, for Govn't purposes.    Robt's defection was quite as much a surprise & news to me, as to you all; & of it, I am both glad and sorry, - glad he went under such favorable auspices, & Sorry to Know, of course, that his life is so jeopardized.  Have heard from him twice, 1st at St. Louis, where I wrote him & sent him some gold & in reply to that had letter from him yesterday, written on Board, as was en route from St Louis, up to Lexington. - where I fear there will be a terrible conflict: & so he seemed to feel, though wrote in apparent good spirits.  I will write him as soon as can esteem him long enough in one place for a letter to reach him.  I now have all the burden & care & responsibility of his business which he left in a very perplexed & incompleted [?] state; & what I am to do with it I have not yet been able to figure out.  From Alba I hear almost daily.  I had him down a few hours one day last week, but as I was unable to be up, could not enjoy or make pleasant his visit.  I have been quite sick for many [?] weeks, up & down most of time; but the past several days, & have had to take & am still taking much medicine.  Charlie Thomas (Sallie will know him) was my physician & she will be glad to learn he is here, in a good practice & the most scientific man in the place.  My disease has been simply a cold in my head but it got bad after intense fever & inflammation, & the most intense suffering I ever experienced; so severe that opium had no affect to stupefy me.  I have been better for past two days, but so reduced in flesh & strength can scarce go about.  hope, however, with care & attention to soon recover.  Jen is to be married tomorrow to a woman he knows about as much of, really, as you do & the entire family are not our style,  He is a bigger fool about the matter of course than any young man would be, - which is best evidenced by fact that he is going to marry her.  He is much disappointed that Sallie, at least, did not come down - why didn't she? I can't write more, am done down [?] out.  Give to Father my best love & wishes,  tell him to let me know all his wants & wishes that I can in any way serve or answer.  Love to all children, & for self except a full share.  Your affect son,  Hector." 

Hector’s father, Burr Braden, died on 6 December 1861 in Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana.

Hector was mentioned in a letter dated 11 January 1862 from his brother, Robert, to their mother: "...I received a letter from Hector written on the 28th of last month in which he spoke of the girls having paid him a visit, making LaFayette and Crawfordsville each a visit during the holidays....  I'm glad to hear that Addison has taken a liking for books and trust that he will not be so much trouble to you in the future.  Hector writes me that he intends giving him an opportunity to study book keeping with him, which I think may be of benefit to him."

On 5 April 1862 in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Hector wrote to his mother, Mary, regarding the business of his father, Burr's, estate.  The letter follows: 

"Crawfordsville, Apr 5th, 1862.

My Dear Mother,

Your so kind & welcome letter sent by Alba, I rec'd in due time, & while ever glad to hear from you, am truly grieved to learn you are still so poorly - when the weather can become settled, warm & pleasant, so that your pores will be thoroughly opened & you can take abundant outdoor exercise, I do trust you will materially improve; I still have abiding faith in fresh air, especially if taken on horse-back, & insist that you try it constantly.  As to bu's [abbrev. for "business" ?; can't read word] - I wish you, of course, to give it all the attention you can conveniently, but don't let it worry you; I will come up as soon as the weather & roads Settle, & give affairs all the time & attention possible.  I left notes with Mr. Azers [?] to the amount equal to his claim, assumed to pay Carson, so did not expect you to pay that am't.  We have orders to sue the parties - Yonkey [?] & G. Thomas if not paid soon.  Ask him how the matter stands.  As to Debtors believing they will be sued if do not pay, I am perfectly reconciled to their entertaining such opinions - with some it will certainly prove true, if payment is not speedily made; as to all indeed, it is better to collect, as the money can be equally safe in other investments, & made to pay better than 6 perct' interest.  I was in Laft' [Lafayette] on Thursday, saw co's Jen & Henry.  Annie Jenners had left for N.Y.  While there I learned that the money could now probably be made on a note signed by Carmi [?] Jones; there may be two, but I think but one.  The note was not among those in "Pocket Book", but is there somewhere, & be sure you find & send it to me at once, - or both if should be two.  Smith, the Tenant at Last has paid part of his rent; paid taxes, & gave me an order on some men here to whom he sold Sash [?], & I will get some more the same way.  I am holding what got from him to send, in part, to pay taxes on lands in Kansas - but as yet can learn nothing in regards to the matter - long since wrote fully to the man Bob directed me to & have written Bob to that effect.  I will write to the men who attend to our Mr. Gilkey's [?] bu's there, if don't hear soon from Bob's man. I talked with man about selling him the mule named price &c, but did not know he was going 'till learned he was gone, or would have written you by him - for you might not have believed I sent him.  I am very glad the sale was affected.  Now Mother I have another subject to say a few words on, & while I have not fully my own consent to the matter yet as I see no other hope for me, & the anxiety of mind & its wear on my body, is killing me by inches, I am willing to try almost anything.  You have several times told me that it was dear Fathers wish that he had let me, if could do so, use the Laft' lot to get me a little home here with & I now have a faint prospect of being able to make such an exchange.  I have through a friend offered to trade that for a house & lot here, & the owner proposes to go up on Monday & look at it.  I am not sure such a transfer can be made, but think it can, with your consent as guardian of the minor children & the consent of those of age, in their own right. - it would not be selling, only an exchange & I would pay you & the children with you the same rent that the lot in L. brings, above taxes &c.  Of course I will do nothing final 'till hear from you - may not then, indeed think it most uncertain, but if I should be able to make a good exchange with consent of all, I think it very probable it might be the best think for all.”

Hector was mentioned in a letter from his brother, Robert, to their mother, Mary, written on 17 August 1862 from the camp of the 26th Indiana, Springfield, Missouri, where Robert was stationed.  Robert wrote, "Hector wrote me that he had at last made up his mind to commit the sin of matrimony and in the same letter wrote me about the draft, - rather interfering with his arrangements.  I hope everything will work together for the good, and that his long deferred marriage will not be interfered with....  If is possible I intend coming home when Hec is married."

Hector Saurin Braden married Mary Elston, daughter of Major Isaac Compton Elston and his wife, Marie E. (Aiken) Elston, on 16 September 1862 in Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana.  Mary was born in February 1832 in Crawfordsville.

Hector was mentioned a letter from his brother, Robert, to their mother, Mary, written 25 September 1862 in Springfield, Missouri.  It stated, "I... am very sorry to think that while Heck has so agreeably disappointed you by getting married, that Alba will not do likewise by going into the army.  He should do it by all means though I do not blame him for staying out as long as he can avoid it.  I received a letter from him today stating that Heck was really married and giving me quite a merry description of the wedding, Heck's costume, etc.  I am really glad for the honor of the family - and my interest - that he is at last married, for should I ever live to get home the girls will see that I belong to a marrying family and will not be so offish as they were when I left home....  I would have much liked to have been home at Hector's wedding, but the affair was utterly impossible, as "leaves of absence" were granted to no one, and so I did not try."

Hector was mentioned in another of Robert’s letters, this one to their sister, Sarah Deborah Braden, written 27 October 1862 from a camp near Osage Spring, Arkansas.  Robert wrote, "...I received a letter from Hector written while he was at Jefferson, and even his great happiness, honeymoon happiness at that, could not counter-balance the dire vexation caused him by the heavy rain which descended while he was there, causing much mud and heavy roads, all of which had to be encountered by his pet Dixie [his horse].  Terrible indeed for "Sister Mary" [his new wife]. "

Hector was mentioned by Robert Floyd Braden in a letter to their mother, Mary, written 9 November 1862 in Spring River, Missouri.  Robert wrote, "...Another matter which probably tends to increase myself gratulation [sic] is the perfectly good terms you and Heck are now on, he having removed the "cause of contention," that so long formed the text for those late-at-night lectures which you were want to give him, in which the individual perfidy of the aforesaid Hector and the general depravity of the whole Braden family in regard to "trifling with the feelings of poor woman" was fully touched upon in all their various bearings, and from which you rose up with the declared intention of writing to the "poor girl" - and he, of that being the last time you would ever corner him to tell him of his sins.    But that is all over now - the young (?) man has nobly cleared himself of all the charges preferred against him, and as "my daughter Mary" is "all I could ask her to be" your mind is relieved of a great load as far as one member of the family is concerned, - the only thing you can reproach him with being - "why in the world did you not do so sooner?"     But O, me miserum! (translation in Prayer Book) when I think of the condition in which I am placed I am horrified at the idea of ever encountering you again.  I was securely shielded by his dereliction, for of course as long as a brother three years older remained single I could be excused for following his example; But now he marries - invites you down to see him, a snug house, everything comfortable about them, the couple live like two doves. - You come home more in favor (if possible) of your children marrying than ever, and wo! unto the unlucky chicken that fails to go and do likewise.  Nought will be heard but the superior comfort, happiness and contentment and all the other extras of life which Hector and Mary enjoy, compared with what those unfortunate people who are not doubled and a brilliant contrast will be drawn between Hector as he was and Hector as he is!     I had intended to resign and come home, but the prospect of being arraigned for "neglect of duty" frightens me and I have no notion of taking Heck's place in those Chimney Corner conversations.     Why I could not ask for a piece of pie or a clean shirt without having Hector's case cited and being told that I might have all these comforts, if I ever married. I believe I will stay in the army - it is the safest place....  I know you will have a pleasant visit at Crawfordsville.  Mrs. Mary will do everything in the world to make your stay pleasant, and Heck also - provided it does not interfere too much with his private comfort."

Hector worked as an agent for the American Express Company between 1863 and 1878 in Montgomery Co., Indiana.

On 10 February 1863 in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Hector wrote a letter to his mother, Mary. He wrote:  "My Dear Mother.     Yours of the 10th inst. is just rec'd, & am truly sorry to learn of your again being so afflicted - am almost sure you run about too much in this bad, wet weather, & you must try & learn to make the children save you such steps.  Alba & I each rec'd letters from Bob two days since, but they were written far more than a month since, - yours seems to be much later, - am truly glad to hear of his continued good health, do wish he would come home.  Bettie is not here, has not been, but will come, she writes to Alba, whenever he is ready to go up to see you with her.  She had rec'd a letter from Coz Lizzie, & said had one from Jeanette to send to Annie, so I presume you have learned all the news from Loudoun.  I had a long letter from Will, in reply to one from mine, two days since - in relation to mules, marrying, farming &etc.  Am sorry to learn he is so afflicted with eye & chills, think it probably the former is caused by the latter.  I do trust his proposed marriage will be for his good - I know it will take a great burden off you, & be in many respects, if not all (as I hope it will) far better for him.  Mary gave him a pressing invitation to come down & make us a visit just after married, but he replies will not have time. If possible, we will come up then, but can't foresee so for now.  I wrote him I thought he did not value mules high enough, but it is possible they are not as good as such I rated from.  I advised him to buy all he could, and buy corn to feed them, as the demand seems likely to be large in spring, at high rates - so too of horses.  I think it would have been far better to have had "Jimmie" & "Andy" at farm with Colts all winter, as had no use, of amount for them, at town, & feed costs too much this winter.  If Stewart will give anything like fair price for horse, sell to him.  He is not a horse that would sell at all to strangers.  Jimmie Wm might Sell at Laft [Lafayette], to livery, all here are full.   I wrote Mr. Bowen [?] to attend to the matter he advised you of - & trust he will give you all required advice & aid - follow implicitly his instructions - & be careful how you follow Wm's - he knows but little about bu's [business] affairs - thinks knows all, & besides will consult his own interest & comfort rather than yours.  I, by all means advise the sale of the store room & lot to McNutt, if can be affected at fair value.  You should, at this term of court have appraisers appointed, & you can then at anytime sell it legally - you might sell for part down - the bal' on long time, if he so prefers, with interest on deferred payments paid annually.  I should think it worth some $400 or $500.  You should be governed, in regards to renting field to Stewart, or other person, by the probabilities of Addy's farming it next summer or not.  If he will not tend it, then, of course, let it on best terms you can, making the keeping up of fences & ditches well open a positive part of contract.  William can have the two horses spoken of, to plow next summer, if he buys them - not otherwise.   I wish it was possible for you to get a home elsewhere, where you could live far easier & have your cares much decreased - but I can't now see how you would have income sufc't to live upon, unless you could turn your present home into the new one, either by a good tenant for one you leave or making it buy you another.  Can you do either?  Mary read your letter, thanks you most heartily for your loving kindness & says hopes to hear from you very soon.  We will both write her serene highness Miss Nettie soon, as she won't it seems accept our former reply as answer to her dear little letters to us.   Alba is well, tolerably contented, & as easy as usual!  Much love from us all to you all.  Let us hear from you soon & often.  Every your most affc't Son  Hector."

Hector’s mother, Mary (Jenners) Braden died on 5 September 1863 in Jefferson, Clinton Co., Indiana.

On 15 February 1864 in Clinton Co., Indiana, estate papers were filed stating that Hector S. Braden and Mary D. Braden were the executors of Burr Braden's estate.  Mary died in September 1863.  In January 1864, Hector sold part of Lot #41 in Lafayette, Indiana that was part of the estate.  Hector sent his cousin, Abiel Jenners Bradfield, a receipt (written on American Express Co. letterhead) for taxes paid on Kansas lands of William Jenners' estate on 9 February 1865. 

     On 25 January 1866, Hector wrote a letter from Crawfordsville to his brother, William M. Braden. From comments in the letter, it appears that Will and Hector had been disagreeing about Will's handling of the family farm.  Hector's letter follows: “My Dear Bro Will, Our letters seem to be mutual in their effects, you tell me mine "astonishes" you.  I assure you yours produced a like effect upon me.  As to terms of contract, I don't see them as you state, that’s not important now; but I do remember, as you state, that because we are one family, the children of a departed father, whose virtues it would be an honor & a joy to imitate, that we deemed no written contract necessary, nor anticipated any misunderstandings, or trouble - God knows I want none, & you must admit, giving me but the most common instincts of humanity, as I cannot possibly make anything thereby, or gain any point, I am but placed in a position, where all reasons, call on compel me to be just & correct, to & for others.  Now, let me ask you to read my last letter again, & if you can remember your answer & you will see that you torture & misconstrue my letter & don't at all answer what I wrote.  I wrote much in relation to your selling Stock off the farm to which you deign no word of reply.  This point must be satisfactorily arranged & explained.  You have much to say about my requesting you to collect notes &c due estate; I did not mention notes.  You say I wrote for you to "hire someone to collect the Timmons claims - as if afraid to trust you," How false & unjust you are, & ain’t you ashamed of it now - you should be for you know I wrote asking you to do it if had time, & if could not, get someone else.  Now let me state in fewer words, what I mean by my much writing, as to collections & payings out, for the estate.  Understand then once & for all, that the Court will not allow or recognize any disbursement unless a proper voucher, made by the party paid to, is presented with the acc't when I offer it for settlement - Your accts, (as with any others) correct no doubt though they were, would be thrown out as if not there at all, & the result would be the estate could not be Settled.   Just so with money you recv', I have not ever been written to by you, that you had rec'd any much less, rec'd any proper vouchers therefore, yet the evidence of such sums having come into my hands, is in possession of the court, & will be exacted from me at settlement.  Right here let me disabuse you of another impression you write as if had - viz that "I wrote as if deemed you dishonest," - I know  I have intimated ever, no such thing, I have ever thank God been fully able to trust fully in your intentions to do right - what I have to except to is the want of proper attention to details, to reach the right - you must constantly bear in mind that all that we do for the estate cannot be settled as you & I could settle our individual matters, but has to item by item go before the Court, on paper, with a legal voucher for every cent rec'd & paid out.  Let me show you where you are, you, of course, report to me, as executor, for certain sums of money, collected from aspects of the said estate, - when you came to show what became of these sums, you bring your "Book," & show paid out certain sums to certain parties, but only the Book, not a dollar would be allowed, so presented & your recpts would be a legal & [?] get away from chg against you - think of these things Wm & I know you will see in a different light, what I wrote you & why.  I am positive I told you of the imperative necessity of taking recpts, in name of exectr, for all you paid out for estate, as such need has ever been before my mind since exectr & as wrote you, you must, at once get such for every $ disbursed, - in case of dead man, get someone to sign his name, that was aware of the fact, or make sum to statement of the fact that you paid him such amt & that he died before you could get voucher.  With these, also make out statement of amts and sources, of all moneys by you coll' from estate assets, & send in recpts form to me, as exectr, all these recpts; if owe $20, must have 2 c stamp attached.  For your own sake, far more than mine, attend to these things promptly for the money you have rec'd can readily be shown into your hands, but out of them, for your cr, only by manner above stated.  I made no allusion to your having attended, or not attended, to the affairs & interests of the farm & estate, or failed to perform your contract, no remark of the kind & yet you write pages as if had.  I know you have been unable to do so & therefore you have had my offer to do all I could to aid you, now you write my aid is only like dead sea fruit - ashes to the eater.  I have asked nothing from you but proper statements of funds you rec in & pay out.  What in God's name, less, could I ask brother mine, I cannot allow you to ruin yourself, & involve me & my sisters in endless loss & litigation.  As to "Frank", where I suggested the selling him, I did it, as thought if best for all - if you can make it profitable to keep him, do so by all means, but be reasonably certain of it - some years hence he will be too old to sell at all.  As to your remaining on the Farm, that, I want you to be fully advised of all the pros & cons, then take the course, that to you seems best.  I have no wish to conceal my desire to have you stay on it - for two reasons, I think it best for you, & don't want to see strangers on it, nor to sell the place that gave us birth, as long as it can be avoided.  As to the purch's of the Hart farm, I am sorry to hear of it, for though know nothing of terms or price, would not consider it a good investment at any price, as the land is very poor, wet & flat, & will never be otherwise - let me beg of you Will, to look well at the thing ere you take it.  Despite your insisting that I have so worryed you & hurt your feelings, I must try to assert that I neither thought of doing so, nor can I imagine why you so construed it.  Nor will I admit either, that I withdrew any offers of aid, or made such offer a nullity, by what last wrote. - I again repeat such offer, in the same good faith & kind feelings of a desire to aid you when unfortunate, as felt when first made it.  I know too, that we have both written more, in all the points discussed in these late letters, than sounds [?] to [?].  Our views, as to agreement must be the same, - I will try to state them brief & in full.  I told you, as I am sure you will admit, that my whole object was to make the estate self-supporting - to pay its reaping [?] expenses, & keep it up, personal & real, to am't & value of [hire you on contract].  Based on such idea, my proposition could be but this, The whole net proceeds of lands &c were to be used for such purpose, & the bal' necessary you were to pay - what the expenses of the estate are, there can be no question about, viz taxes, of all kinds, proper am't to support & educate minor children, & keep the lands in like repair, as to fences, ditches &c, & keep the quantity of live stock, up to average, in value & number.  Now Billy is that not stating the matter fully & fairly - it is not, I can't, nor will I attempt to.  You say I have forgotten as to terms of keeping Frank - it makes no sort of difference whether you claim to have 1/2 his profits, all of it, nor none, - in either case, you & the estate would pay & rec'v just same - as all his profits, if used by me for the estate, would have up from you - if you took all, you would have more to pay for uses of estate, & just so with any other item.  As to "use of Stock," while I don't exactly know what you mean, I have stated how it is to be used, its nett [sic] profits are to be sold, or valued, as given for use of estate, just so far as will have of that kind of stock a full average no. & value, on the estate. Now if I haven't stated all the points fully & fairly, you must get someone else to do it, I have done. Let me once more remind you to, at once get up all vouchers for money paid out & recd by you, & send to me, - this done, & you keeping in mind my idea as to no. & value of live stock to be kept on estate, you have my wishes as to your doings in such connection.  As to the money that has been & may be expended for minor heirs, desired from other sources, than profits of the estate, that matter will be easily arrived at & settled when we make up acct's.  I know you have had no money, of course, to spare, oweing [sic] to going there with none & failure of crops, to pay out for their or your own expenses, & I have not, therefore, asked you for what you so rec'd - only for the proper reports of it; - of your furnishing these, I trust I have shown you the absolute necessity.  And now, we have both written long, if not well, & I trust, when the smoke clears away, will find we were not as much hurt as irritated.  I return you your letter that you may read it, & my from me, & see how you missed mine where you shot at it.  Let me hear from you fully as to any & all matters that you may want my aid or opinion of.  Write me soon, & send vouchers, &c       Love to all,  Your Bro, affect'ly    Hector

Cough surup [sic] recpt.

     1 oz paregoric

     1 "  Autimonal [sic] wine,

     1 " gum Arabic, - boil latter in pint syrup, & add two [?unreadable] when cool.  Take table spoonfull [sic] often - not too often, or you'l [sic] see what you saw at your last meal!  I trust it will do whoever its for much good - I have great faith in it, H”.

Various receipts related to the estate of Burr Braden show Hector acting as executor from 1866 to 1868.

Hector and Mary Braden appeared on the census 1870 in  the 3rd Ward, Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana. The household was: Braden, H.S., 39, M, W, Commission Mer., born IN; Braden, Mary, 37. F, W, Keeps house, born IN.

Hector wrote to his brother, Will, "Crawfordsville, Apr. 5th, 1871   Dear Bro Will -  Have yours 1st inst. & note it fully.  You are mistaken as to am't rec'd by me from "Estate."  There is chg'd to me in "Will" $600.00.  I rec'd since was exec'tr $1100.00 from sale of lot in Lafayette, but have paid over to Heirs much more than both these sums together, (besides all other sums rec'd as exec'tr of estate).  So much for that.  I will get full at facts as to mules, and (?) say more as to them.  I know, nor care nothing as to your & Addison's division or settlement.  I look to you for all sums you collected of funds belonging to the estate & they must, at time suggested, be forth coming.  As to appraisers, I before wrote you to get any suitable persons, say such as George Aughe, Taylor Heavilon, John Vansickle, or other such, as can [?word unclear] get together to be sworn, select 2 & let them select the third.  Your letter to Alba gave us the first intimation of the new scion that follows the parent stock.  It seems fitting, though possibly burdensome to you & Laura, that the name & fame of the "House" should thus have promise of being kept alive in the Land, as some of rest of us are doing aught toward such result!  Mary joins me in kindest congratulations, & hopes for both Laura & little one, the best of success.  When the Rail is down to this place, you surely will bring all down to see us.  Weather lovely, & I know is doing your farmer's heart and eyes good.  As ever, your affctnd Bro   Hector”.

Hector was a member of the Crawfordsville city council, occupying a chair in the public and finance committee from 1874-1878.

On 5 November 1874 in Clinton Co., Indiana, a quit claim deed was signed by all Burr's children which sold the title to all Burr's land to Burr's son, William M. Braden, for $6,000.

During the building of the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western railroad, Hector was general manager, and then he was the local agent at Crawfordsville.

Hector purchased the Sand Creek coal banks in Montgomery Co., Indiana, in 1878.

Hector and Mary Braden appeared on the census of 1880 in Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana. The household was: Braden, Hector S., wm 50, Nov., married, coal dealer; Braden, Mary E., wf 47, Feby., married, wife, keeping house; and a servant, Catherine Sullivan.

The 1881 Montgomery County History says this about Hector: "Hector S. Braden, coal dealer, insurance and railroad agent, Crawfordsville.  Among the active business men of Crawfordsville, and those who have aided in improving the city both in individual and public service, Mr. Braden occupies an important place.  He is a native of Clinton Co., Indiana, having been born there November 22, 1830, and is the son of Burr and Mary (Jenners) Braden.  His father was a merchant in Jefferson, Indiana, so that young Braden served some years behind his father's counter.  He attended Wabash College two years, then entered a mercantile college in Cincinnati, and in 1853 graduated.  Mr. Braden now came to Crawfordsville and became a partner in the firm of Lee, Gilkey & Co.  This firm built a large elevator, 60x100, four stories, with railroad track passing through it.  For about ten years this firm carried on a business of 50,000 to 75,000 bushels of grain, and a commission trade in flour of about 15,000 barrels.  Throughout Lincoln's administration Mr. Braden filled the office of internal revenue collector.  In 1863 he was appointed agent for the American Express Company, which position he held until 1878.  From 1874 to 1878 he was a prominent member of the city council, occupying the chair in the public and finance committee.  During the building of the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western railroad Mr. Braden was general manager; then for several years was local agent at Crawfordsville.  In 1878 he purchased the Sand creek coal banks, and is now proprietor of the same, with a commodious office in Crawfordsville.  In connection with his general coal trade he also carries a commission business in flour, is agent for the Union and National Through Fast Freight lines, and agent for New York Underwriters' Insurance Company.  He is president of the Crawfordsville and Yountsville Gravel Road Company.  It is needless to comment upon the activity of a life so fraught with business.  Mr. Braden was married September 16, 1862 to  Mary Elston, daughter of Maj. I.C. and Marie E. (Aiken) Elston.  Mrs. Braden is a native of Crawfordsville."

In 1884, Hector bought the Isaac Elston home place from his wife's sister and her husband, Aaron Blair.  He lived in that house until his death.  According to the Montgomery Co. Monthly newsletter, "By the end of the century, the old Elston home place was being referred to as the Old Braden Place.... By 1912, when Hector Braden died, the dignified old mansion had lost its front lawn and entrance to the north, and the house itself had been neglected and was in sad need of a face-lift." 

Hector and Mary had no children. Mary (Elston) Braden died on 18 February 1898 in her home at 409 E. Main St., Crawfordsville.  She was 65 years old.  She was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, Crawfordsville.

Her obituary was published on February 21, 1898:  "Friday, February 18, 1898: Death of Mrs. H.S. Braden - She Passes Away Last Night at Her Home After an Extended Illness. - Mrs. Mary E. Braden, wife of Hector S. Braden, died last night at midnight at her home on east Main street.  Mrs. Braden had been in poor health for some months but had rallied and was improving until a few days ago.  Yesterday she began failing rapidly and her relatives were summoned, being present when the end came.     Mrs. Braden was a daughter of Major and Mrs. Isaac Elston, pioneer residents of Crawfordsville.  She was born here sixty-five years ago and was married in September, 1862 to Mr. H.S. Braden, who survives her.  Three sisters, Mrs. Lewis Wallace, Mrs. A.H. Blair of Indianapolis, and Mrs. H.S. Lane and a brother, Col. I.C. Elston, are living.  Two brothers, James and Frank Elston, and two sisters, Sylvia Elston and Mrs. Eva Smith, are dead.     At an early age Mrs. Braden united with the Methodist Episcopal church and continued through life as a devoted communicant of that denomination. Not only was she consistent in her duties to the church but she carried her religion into her everyday life where her many acts of charity and kindness betokened that she highest esteemed the creed of good deeds and works.  Possessed of a brilliant mind and a kindly heart she attracted to herself a circle of warm and enduring friends with whom her memory will ever live as a most pleasant one.    In accordance with her own request the funeral will be private and friends will kindly refrain from sending flowers. 

Monday, February 21, 1898: Funeral of Mrs. H.S. Braden -  The funeral of Mrs. Hector S. Braden occurred this morning from the family residence on east Main street.  The services were short and simple and upon their conclusion the relatives and a few immediate friends followed the remains to their last resting place at Oak Hill."

Hector appeared on the census of 1900 in Union Twp., Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana. Hector was listed as widowed, born Nov. 1830.  There was a 42 year old black servant living with him named Mary E. Lewis.

On 1 May 1905 in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Hector wrote a letter to his brother, Will. The envelope was addressed to Mr. Wm M. Braden, Frankfort, Ind.  R.R. #.  The return address was H.S. Braden, Crawfordsville, Ind. and it was postmarked at Crawfordsville, Ind.  May 1, 1905  5:30P.  The letter follows:

"H.S. Braden    Crawfordsville, Ind.  May 1, 05

Dear Bro Will:

I have just re'cd per ex' office the so acceptable gift you sent & most heartily approve your selection.  I am as highly pleased with such as is a sweet-toothed kid with a box of candy!  The Recpt' for Check sent came to hand promptly - for which you also have my thanks.  As the distributing the check & Recpts, & making the necessary entries in Books, 28 separate p's [?] of writing, & I was anxious to get all off that day, had no time to write letters.  Should have written you today to explain my seeming rudeness.  Hope you "wintered" well, & will fill out nicely on early pasture.  My kindest remembrances to Laura & the children.  Drop down on me anytime the "spirit moves ye."   Faithfully - your brother         Hector."

On 20 November 1905 in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Hector wrote to Will: 

"H.S. Braden Crawfordsville, Ind.  Nov. 20, 1905

Dear Bro Will.

Much as regret it, am compelled to admit my condition has become so adversely complex, am forbidden to leave here until conditions are markedly changed for the better, which I receive from Physicians, & my own feelings, no such speedy change as my so much hoped for trip to the "old home farm" would require.  You need not therefore expect me Wednesday a.m. at Frankfort.  If such a miracle should show up, as would allow me to leave home, I will find a way to get to you; but have never seen a miracle - & dare not expect one put on bill of fare for my special favor!  Love to all - your attached brother  Hector."

But he must have visited them after all, because on 24 November 1905, Hector wrote to Will: 

 

"H.S. Braden   Crawfordsville, Ind.  Nov. 24th - 05

Dear Brother Wm, Sister Laura, & my niece & nephew,

It is a very pleasing privelige [sic] to be able to write how much am indebted to you all for the delightful day you did, so kindly, so much to make it for me in so many respects, the most enjoyed day I have passed in many years.  The Giver of all Good Gifts seemed to have made all things that could add to our comfort & enjoyment, in their perfection & I have not ceased thanking Him therefore - I have marked that day as one deserving a "white stone" as memorial.

I reached home in due time, so full of pleasant memories & grateful thanks, that is was long past my usual time to be asleep ere did so that night!  I trust you will spare me for not attempting to tell you each, how much I would like to put in words, how much I thank you all. - Must beg you to feel it as I do.

I hope you are all well, & have recovered sooner than I did, from the too much, of so many good things that tempted me to try them all.  May I hope to see you all in my home.  I promise to not tempt you, at table, as was I at yours!  With love & thanks, your attchd brother & Uncle --   Hector."

On 1 September 1908 in Crawfordsville, Hector wrote a letter to his niece, Mary Jane Braden. The envelope is addressed to: Miss Mary J. Braden, Frankfort, Ind., R.D. No. 7, Box 100; from: H.S. Braden               Postmarked: Crawfordsville, Ind; Crawfordsville, Ind.  Sep 1, 1908  4:30P.  Postmarked on back: Frankfort, Ind Sep 2, 1908  4:30P.  The letter follows: 

"H.S. Braden, Crawfordsville, Ind.  Sept. 1st, 08

My Dear Niece Mary,

                    On way this morning, from home via post office, to my office, found your letter of yesterday, & trust you will not allow yourself to doubt how much I was pleased to get it & more to read your promise to come to my home, old & lonely as it is, & to bring your Mother & William also.  I only remember the latter as having been here though do think your mother was here at time of burial of my wife.  But it will.  While it is true I per force, live rather lonely, yet I am not as depressed as might be did I not feel quite confident that am sympathized by my so affectionate relatives & friends, who know how I have to live, if keep the Home I have to stay in, if stay at all. - no other one could seem a "home" to me, as all in & around it were so dear to us both.  I almost seem to see her, or soon to come from some of one of the rooms to one I am in.

          I wish it could be convenient for Robert to also come here with you (or at any other time when "Home-cares" less forbid - Should so much see him here, his telling me all about the "old farm"as it seems to me.  Its only a year or two older than I - but unlike it improves.  The reverse with me - much more rapidly.

          Sister Anna was with me here all of one day last week much to our enjoyment, though she had a very annoying finger from some impure or other diseased blood circulation - do hope will [page 2] quite soon be fully relieved, as she is promised.

     Had letter from "Sister" (Sallie) last week.  She was quite well, but the Col' was quite a sufferer from his annual attack, comes & goes about same period & length.

     Have had no rain (for such name) here for some 6 weeks!  Danger of fire from all that will burn, & no supply of water to extinguish.  One of my Cisterns - a very needed one - has been empty for a month - 1st from Cleaning, & since none to replace -

     The day is becoming up to grade of heat have had to endure for so long - a very little fall this a.m. of very small, & few drops fell - people all stood out of doors, anxious to be sure it was rain-water.  Haven't learned how they agreed.

     But am glad the roads will not be too soft for you to come to me Friday next & I will believe, for all our sakes, will be cooler then - if not sooner & longer.

     With love to Sister, & also to Niece Mary, to "William" whose visits (3 I think) will willingly remain[?], if he remembers his visits here (with Grand Pa) with as pleasing coming.  We shall anxiously wait your arrival & already regret your leaving us.

      Until I see you, & always - your devoted Uncle.  Don't forget my love to Robert.  Wish I had sent Poliaman [?] to bring him to "Fair" here last week.                                 Hector."

Hector appeared on the census of 28 April 1910 in Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana. He was listed as "Hector S. Braden, head, mw, 80, widowed, born Indiana."  Living with him was black servant, Hester Humphrey, 67, widowed.

Hector was ill when he was mentioned in the obituary of his brother, Addison as "...lying at the point of death from the effects of a tumor." in July 1912.

Hector Saurin Braden died on 17 September 1912 in Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana, at age 81.

An obituary appeared 18 Sep 1912 in the Frankfort News, Frankfort, Clinton Co., Indiana.  It reads, "Hector S. Braden Dead.  Brother of Mrs. J.G. Clark and Mrs. W.W. Garrott.  Native of Clinton County, but Had Been Active in the Business Life of Crawfordsville for Years.  Hector S. Braden, aged 82, a brother of Mrs. John G. Clark, and Mrs. W.W. Garrott, of this city, died at his home in Crawfordsville Tuesday night at 10 o'clock, after an illness that extended over a period of twenty-three weeks.  Death was due to a complication of diseases.  Mr. Braden was born Nov.22, 1830, at Jefferson in this county, and was the son of Burr and Mary Braden.  His parents came from old Virginia stock where they were both born, moving to Indiana after they were married.  In September, 1862, after going from Clinton to Montgomery county, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Elston, a daughter of Major I.C. Elston, a pioneer banker of Crawfordsville.  Mrs. Braden died several years ago.  There were no children.  Mr. Braden was a brother-in-law of the late Gen. Lew Wallace.  During the administration of President Lincoln he served as internal revenue collector holding the appointment for several years.  Besides the two sisters residing in this city, Mr. Braden leaves another, Mrs. G.P. Jennings, of Lafayette.  A brother, Addison B. Braden, died at the home of Mrs. J.G. Clark in this city on July 26.  Mr. Braden was a retired business man and capitalist and had been active in financial and business circles at Crawfordsville for years.  The funeral service will be held Thursday, probably in the afternoon, and burial will be made in Oak Hill, near Crawfordsville."

An obituary appeared 18 Sep 1912 in the Crawfordsville Journal, Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana, which stated: "Hector S. Braden Answers the Call - Aged and Highly Respected Citizen Passed Away Last Night - Suffered Six Months - Was Active in Business Life Here - Married to Mary Elston, Sister of Mrs. Lew Wallace. -  Hector S. Braden, a retired capitalist and for years one of the leading business men and politicians of this city, died at his home on east Main street at ten Tuesday night, after having suffered for a number of months with a tumor.  His death has been expected for some time and he knew that he had only a short time to live but in spite of this fact he has borne his suffering with fortitude and cheerfulness.   Mr. Braden was born in Clinton county November 22, 1830, and was eighty-two years of age at the time of his death.  He was married, September 16, 1862, to Mary Elston, daughter of Major and Mrs. I.C. Elston and a native of Crawfordsville.  Mrs. Braden preceded her husband in death several years.    Mr. Braden has rightly been classed as one of Crawfordsville's most active business men.  His father, Burr Braden, was a merchant in Jefferson, Ind., so that the son served many years behind his father's counter.  He attended Wabash college for two years then entered a mercantile college in Cincinnati, graduating from the latter institution in 1853.  He then came to Crawfordsville becoming a partner in the firm of Lee, Gilkey & Company which firm built a large grain elevator, doing business for about ten years.    Throughout Lincoln's administration Mr. Braden filled the office of internal revenue collector.  In 1863 he was appointed agent for the American express company holding this position until 1878.  From 1874 to 1878 he was a prominent member of the city council occupying the chair in the public and finance committee.  During the building of the Indianapolis Bloomington and Western railroad Mr. Braden was general manager and then for several years was local agent in this city.  He was at one time president of the Crawfordsville and Yountsville gravel road company.  It is needless to comment on the activities of a life so fraught with business.  Both in individual and public service he at all times did all he could to aid in improving the city.   Three sisters survive the deceased, Mrs. John G. Clark and Mrs. W.W. Garrot, of Frankfort and Mrs. H.G.P. Jennings of Lafayette.   A brother, Addison B. Braden died in Frankfort July 26.   Funeral services will be held at some hour Thursday."

Hector Saurin Braden was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, near Crawfordsville, Montgomery Co., Indiana.