The Greenock Record
The Greenock Record was written by John Greenock (1870-1947) over many years late in his life. This version is dated 1942, but I have a similar version from 1939 in the form of a 19-page letter to his cousin Jim. My Mom was under the impression that he had placed a version of this story in the Newberry Library in 1946, in keeping with the intention he mentions in this version.
John Greenock wrote with lovely, clear handwriting but nearly inscrutable punctuation. This version was transcribed by me, so I'll include photographs of the pages so you can check its accuracy.
In the composition book itself this story has no title, but in his letters Greenock referred to it as "The Greenock Record" or often just "The Record", so I'm using that title here.
Property of D.P. Morley [Dorothy Pearl, John's daughter]
8.25.42
Hugo de Grenok. Origin Gael, 1296. The Greenock Family in the United States, prior to 1779. The Redpath-Ridpath Families. Origin Saxon, 450 A.D. United States 1760.
The record is respectfully dedicated to the memory of your Grandparents Robert Greenock, and Jane Greenock nee Redpath.
Dr. Henry Van Dyke once said it is a lot easier to be a descendant then an ancestor. As one Greenock to another it is my request to you as a Greenock that you will at all times collect and add the same all data that comes to your knowledge relative to the Greenock family. And when the time comes pass it along to your nearest of kin as they in part should have some knowledge as to their forebears. It has been said where
one takes up with something otherwise than their usual vocations it is called a hobby it may be so, yet I am at a loss to understand why our forebears failed to keep a family record with their name its traditions and connections with early Scottish History some one has failed to carry on, so many of us find it difficult to trace our lineage further than our grandparents and a great deal of that is hearsay and our forebears were no exception to the rule. What a curious world this would be if each and every generation would as it were just close their books, draw the curtains, lock the doors and fade-out into the astral blue as some say we do, leaving you and I to peer through the dim mists of the past. Then they say do not go too far back on your family tree as you may find some one hanging on it and this may have proven a retard to many on the same quest as I am. In my younger days the thought of a family record or anything pertaining to it never entered my mind. But since our Parents have passed on to their reward, also that the sunshine of this life is fast casting its shadow down the pathway of my life. Many of the stories and traditions attached to the name have been recalled and it is with these foundations and gleanings from early Scottish history I will endeavor to with dates and data as far as they will permit give you a short yet concise story relative to our forebear and others of the family. As a Greenock I am justly proud of the Greenock men proud of their military records and respect them as law-abiding citizens in the lands wherein they have dwelt. They have served under The Red Lion Rampant of Scotland, The Flag and Banners of Edward The First, King of England, The Union Jack of Great Britain, The Stars and Stripes of the Colonial States of America, The Red And Yellow of Spain, The Stars and Bars of the Confederate States of America, and last but not least the Stars and Stripes of The United States of America, since making this their adopted home since 1891. I am
to the best of my knowledge the last named John Greenock our Grandparents objected very strongly to naming me as such as several children so named passed away in early childhood and as Mother said I was 3 years old before I took my first lesson in walking. As our family consists of three daughters now married it seems as if the direct line on my part will cease, as I believe when a woman marries she loses her identity [This turns out to be incorrect]. I am the first born of twelve children born to Robert Greenock and Jane Greenock nee Redpath. Place of birth, Glasgow, Scotland. Date, May 28th 1870. 123. Sydney Street.
Signed John Greenock, Chicago, Illinois, 194 [sic]
I had originally planned to base my story around our great-grandfather Joseph Greenock and his Peninsular War Medal and its ten bars, but a chance inquiry by a grand-daughter and nephew, “have we a family tree.” This caused me to turn back the pages of early Scottish history, and as I had received my education in Scottish schools, my objective was to find the origin of our surname and its meaning. I addressed a letter to the Registrar General of The City of Greenock, Scotland. In reply I received the following quotation. “The Ragman Roll,” presumed to be the first authentic record of Scottish nobility together with some historical data.
Hugo de Grenok to whom the Barony of Grenok pertained was one of The First Scottish Nobility to give fealty to Edward the First, King of England, on July 12th 1296. Surnames prior to this were unfashionable and persons were known by such names as Long John, Black John, Dark John, Wee John, John The Baker, etc., but on their becoming fashionable these changed to John de Long, John de Black, John de Baker, etc., as many of the Aristocracy took their names from the position of their estates or from a prominent land-mark thereon. It is assumed that Hugo de Grenok derived the name
(Grian-chnoc) from the eminence above the town now known as The Wellspark this eminence Grian-chnoc is gaelic for sunny knowe or a nook in the hill where the sun shines. End of quotation.
The signing of The Ragman Roll at this time may have been a pact to placate the Scots and Saxons of Northumberland who at all times hampered the movements of English armies toward Scotlands frontiers. Northumberland at this time was considered Scottish territory and it was here that Vortigern, The Roman General, in 450 A.D. placed the Saxon soldiers as soldiers of defense who ultimately became the lowland farmers and from this source can the Redpath-Ridpath families. The many changes in names as was customary during this period as it is presumed the oldest male heir generally assumed the name, the estate and title. The others may have become the progenitors of those now known as the Longs, Blacks, and the Baker families. Among the early inhabitants of Scotland were The Celts, The Gaels, Caledonians, Normans, Norsemen, Scots, French, Flemish and Saxons, truly a cosmopolitan and warlike people. A people whom the Romans one time conquerors of the World could not subdue. The rulers previous to July 12th 1296, died leaving no heirs a period of unrest prevailed. Thirteen claimants appeared as contenders for the crown. Bishop Fraser of St. Andrews fearing armed conflict sought the intervention of Edward the First, King of England. He demanded several concessions two being that John Baliol and Robert Bruce two cousins act as contestants for the crown to this The Clergy, The Barons, and some of the first Scottish Nobility agreed and this leads up to our forebear a[s] he had signed the “Ragman Roll,” for Edward. A convention was called. Each contestant selecting forty four adherents Edward himself twenty four. The result was that John Baliol was chosen King of Scotland, thus becoming a vassal to Edward. But little did they reckon on the power of Bruce. Quarrels arose disputes were many. Edward finally declared
war. Scottish historians deny this was a war of conquest but just Edwards way of punishing Baliol for his failure to keep the peace. Baliol surrendered to Anthony Beck, Bishop of Durham. He then fled to France where he died time and place unknown.
Edward is said to have marched north as far as Elgin where he is said to have stolen some relics among them being the Black Rood and The Stone of Scone. The legend attached to this stone is that it is the one that pillowed Jacobs head when he dreamed of the ladder that reached to Heaven. The stone was used in all ceremonials attached to the crowning of Scotlands Kings and Queens. It now forms the foundation of The Throne Chair in Edward The Confessors chapel in Westminister Abbey. On Edwards march homeward he also took with him The Ragman Roll; and the signature of our forebear Hugo de Grenok.
There is a lapse of time from 1296-1600. We read that in 1600 the village of Greenock was an obscure fishing village consisting of six or seven slate roofed houses. Then in 1635 the village or town of Greenock was erected into a Burgh of Barony by Charles The First, King of England, under charter granted to John Schaw and his spouse Helen Houston. This verifies the custom of the time that of confiscating your estate and titles and conferring it [on someone] else and it may have occurred during those stirring times when Scotland torn by civil wars, her fight for religious freedom and the dominance of England. As it took Scotland nearly two hundred years to gain her liberty and it may be that during these times that de Grenok owing to his english affiliations in signing the Ragman Roll; has cost them the titles and estates. In 1773 John Schaw Stewart, is now owner of the Greenock estate. It is presumed to be wealthy as it is said that the docks built that made Greenock famous as a seaport was from monies loaned by the Greenock estate and it is said to receive certain fees annually. Greenock is located on The Tail of the Bank River Clyde, its chief industries are sugar refining and
shipbuilding. They say when you visit Greenock do not fail to take your umbrella as it may be raining or (snauring [?]) snowing. I have no recollection of ever visiting there. Mother and Father have, in June 1881, while on our journey to U.S. We stopped there for ballast and passengers. The latter part of the seventeenth century has some data relative to the family. A tradition says that a Greenock served with the Colonials during the revolutionary war. A letter was addressed to Secretary of War Dern supplemented by the service records of our Brothers Robert, Joseph II, Thomas and his son Harry. This was referred to James F.M. Kinley, Major General, The Adjutant General. He in reply stated that the records of the revolutionary war in his office were far from complete. He inferred that I get in touch with the States that furnished men for service at that time. Letters were addressed to the governors of the several states and it remained for Herbert G. Brigham, Record Commissioner of Rhode Island to furnish the record as follows. From the revolutionary war records of Massachusetts and Connecticut Vol. 6 P.856, Massachusetts soldiers and sailors in the war of the revolution. Greenock, George, Boy, Brigantine, Tyrannicide, commanded by the Captain Allen Hallet, engaged March 30th 1779, discharged April 30th 1779, served one month. He may have been a cabin boy or a powder monkey as was termed in those days and as this was close to the end of the war the vessel may have been taken out of line.
Several years ago in reading a novel entitled, On Defence, Author unknown, the latter chapters dealt with the mutinies of 1797. Several British Men of War whose crews had mutinied were moored at Spithead. It reads that Richard Calhoun the principal character in the novel boarded one of those vessels and being well known he was acclaimed their hero. A short time afterwards one of these vessels slipped its moorings and set sail for The West Indies arriving there in time to
sail between the lines of The British and French fleets then engaged in conflict this action is said to have turned the tide of battle in favor of the British Arms. It also states that “Greenock” was master of the ship and a dour surly fellow he was, “not a Greenock trait.” In this meagre information I got in touch with the British Admiralty office. I then learned that all records of the mutinies of 1797 had been transferred to the Public Record Office. They referred me to a public searcher they also inferred that the author may have used a fictitious name for his character but as I have said the information was meagre I did not press it. Yet it seems rather curious that they make this assertion as the name Greenock not possible the family, but the wellknown seaport, City of Greenock. There are Great Grandfather Joseph Greenock now four years in the British Army. Then the boy George Greenock who served in The Colonial Navy, and one a British mutineer. Then who was the boy did his father serve with King George III or was a pioneer prior to 1760. No Greenock of the present generation seems able to recall it. I have been told that a Captain Greenock sailed out of Salem, Mass, but as there was no data I did not consider it. And now for the part of the story I am better acquainted with our Great Grandfather Joseph Greenock, his Peninsular War Medal and its ten bars. From what I have learned he spent the latter days of his life with his son our Grandfather John Greenock. He is said to have been a man much embittered toward his former army officers the several causes for this feeling will appear as the story progresses. Part of his military career was spent as a recruiting officer at the Kings Cross in Glasgow, Scotland. This is at the intersection of The High Street and The Trongate this is one of Glasgows main thoroughfares and this district was wellknown to the writer in his boyhood days. It was the scene of many public hangings. The last I believe was the hanging
of five boys for sheepstealing. Mothers Aunt Wilson as a girl witnessed this and thus ended the crime of sheepstealing and public hangings. Mother also tells the story of a young woman named Wilson in her hurry to witness a hanging lost one of her slippers an old lady on hearing this remarked she will marry a Wilson and she did. I never learned anything of our Great Grandfathers private life but am reasonable sure that there was a separation or as you term it a skeleton in the closet. On receiving his medal and bars he in anger returned it to the medal department saying if you cannot give me the four bars for other engagements I do not want it he never saw it again for on its return he had passed on 1848. The medal and its bars are of silver and is known as The “Victoria,” inscribed on the rim Joseph Greenock 94th Foot, time of service 1793-1814. The bars are inscribed as follows. Toulouse. Orthes [Orthez?]. Nive. Nivelle. Pyrennes. Vittoria. Ciudad Rodrico. Salamanca. Badajoz. Fuentes D’oner [Fuentes de Oñoro?]. Historians record that Badajoz was the bloodiest battle Britain ever fought. It seems miraculous fourteen major engagements and no injuries suffered as far as I know. A search was made through the medal department for a record of his enlistments. The following was received from The Public Record Office under date of June 12th 1934. Reference No. 1561. Private Joseph Greenock joined with the 94th Foot during April, 1808, date not shown. He embarked for Spain and Portugal, Jan 1810. To France July 1813. To Ireland, 1814. Discharged at Wexford, Feb 3rd 1815, no other enlistment. No information regarding his birth, parentage, relatives, marriage or children can be found. The regiment only took part in the engagements for which he was awarded the ten bars to his Peninsular War Medal. He did say the last few years of his army service was the hardest. There may be a reason for this you will note fifteen years of service missing 1793-1808-1814. What has become of the fifteen years the four other engagements [see Joseph Greenock's Military Career for more on this question]. The enlistment paper
states, no relatives yet I am reasonable sure he had [a] brother as in 1875 as a boy I met two cousins of Grandfather John Greenock namely Robert and William Greenock. Robert was a jeweller and William was a shoemaker and we all knew him as the father of a large family. Robert and William are recorded as witnesses on the baptismal certificate of our Aunt Elizabeth [Grandfather John had brothers named William and Robert. They both were most likely shoemakers like their father, so the author may have mistaken the relationship as a five-year-old].
It is said that on the night before the Battle of Waterloo two brothers whether Greenocks or Bairds I do not know members of the same regiment. One of them wanted a drink of whiskey the other had it. A sort of Jacob and Esau agreement was made one got a drink of whiskey the other a birthright. This bargain is said to have taken the Greenock family out of line as direct heirs to the Baird Estate of Garsherie near Glasgow, Scotland.
Great Grandmother Greenock, nee Baird. To the best of my knowledge I never heard Grandfather, Uncle Joseph, Father or Aunt Jemima, mention her name. As I am still of the opinion that a seperation has taken place and did she later marry the Army officer who afterwards became The Adjutant of the British Army. Did he in his official capacity remove or cause to be erased all records relative to the fifteen years of service. The four other engagements the record of Grandfathers birth. Also her marriage and all records relative to the Greenock family prior to 1808.
In about 1876 Father and Uncle Joseph started a suit to establish their heirship to the Baird estate but owing to a lack of funds and the lost records The Chancery Court ruled against them. Uncle Joseph has said while I may not live to see the day when this estate will return to us I hope you do as I know I am the oldest living male heir. Still I have read through the newspapers from time to time
that either Lord Craven or the Earl of Cathcart through marriage were in control.
The Peninsular war medal and its ten bars also a copy of the record of the last enlistment are now the property of our Brother Joseph II.
Some years ago about 1898 when Charles Mitchell Great Britains champion light heavyweight boxer came to this country to meet James J. Corbett, the Worlds champion at New Orleans. His backer was Lord Abingdon Baird, known at that time as the Worlds greatest spendthrift he remained in Chicago for about three weeks previous to the bout. He went to New Orleans where he died aged 38 years on reading of his death Father handed me the paper saying do you know he is a third cousin of yours and this was the first intimation that our Great Grandmothers name was Baird.
While talking with John Wilson McAllister of Chicago I found he is closely allied to the Baird family. In my search for Greenocks, I found a small coalmining village named “Greenock,” twenty miles from Pittsburgh, PA. The following was furnished by a Grand-daughter Miss Anna B. Wilson of Versailles, PA. William Black a Scotch coalminer bought some coallands started mining and also founded the village and named it “Greenock,” as this was the last he saw of his native heath as he sailed down The River Clyde on his way to his new home in the U.S.A. 1848. He was a nephew of Colonel Nelson the inventor of the The “Scot Blazes” in the processing of steel now known in this country as The Bessemer process, a monument erected to Colonel Nelson now stands in Princes Street Edinburgh, Scotland.
A story tells us that a member of the family was the officer who carried the order from Lord Raglan to Lord Cardigan that sent The Gallant Six Hundred into action, since immortalized by Lord
Tennyson as “The Charge of the Light Brigade.” Lord Locun [Lucan] who gave the order to Captain Nolan. These two possible knew of the jealousies that existed between Raglan and Cardigan. On receiving the order Cardigan’s lips turned white as he spoke these words, “This is the last of The Cardigans.” Captain Nolan lost his life in the early part of the conflict thus one witness was removed. Cardigan came out with the eighty who survived the fight. One observer remarked it was like sending a regiment of boys against an army of giants. Some one blundered, was it Raglan in his jealous anger make the mistake.
Grandfather John Greenock, was born either in Cork or Wexford, about 1814 this was while his father was doing garrison duty in Ireland. He was a wounded veteran of the Carlist Uprising while serving with The B.A. Legion of Spain 1836. The ball is in my possession it was extracted Sept 23 1836. My own recollections of him are quite vivid a man about 5 ft 6 in in height, fair haired slightly turned to red of quiet temperament, genial demeanor, with a soldierly bearing. He was employed as a superintendent of lamplighters by the City of Glasgow gas works. After Granny’s death in 1875, he is said to have married again. He is said to have received a pension from the Spanish Government 1836 until the time of his death, 1893. His stepson is said to have adopted the name of Greenock. Grandmother Greenock, nee Durie. My best recollection of her is as a boy about 5 years seeing her sitting by the fireside rocking the cradle and smoking her pipe. The baby in the cradle was our Cousin Wm McKay. I believe our Grandparents and the McKays shared the same apartment on Hunter Street, as we lived a few doors away I presume that childlike I would go over to see Granny quite often. I believe owing to a fall sustained in this
building proved fatal, 1875. There is a story attached to her smoking during their courting days Grandfather on his usual visit found her quite ill. The Doctor had said it was water on the stomach. Grandfather suggested she try a puff from his pipe. Just imagine a clay pipe loaded with the black twist tobacco they smoke there, “remember your first smoke.” Well it was a radical cure and she smoked her pipe from that time until her death. She never used a new pipe. Grandfather always started a new pipe on Sunday. Granny scotch like would take the old one place it between the bars of the fireplace burn it out and it was ready for use again. I have seen her do it.
The fruits of this union were Elizabeth, afterwards the wife of William McEwan, a malster by trade they left Glasgow, Scotland in 1871 for the U.S.A. after going from place to place they settled in Cleveland, Ohio. Uncle Will was active in local politics and soon formed the acquaintance of Mark A. Hanna, later U.S. Senator from Ohio, during the McKinley regime. The last survivor of this family is Mrs Katherine Capener of Cleveland, Ohio.
Uncle Joseph was next. He was a cabinet maker by trade. He married Janet Black Douglas. They left Irving Ayr, Scotland about 1886, for Chicago, Illinois. Their only child Janet passed away about 3 years previous. They spent the latter days of their life in The Scottish Old People’s Home, located at Riverside, Illinois, on the Desplaines River. This Home was destroyed by fire on Sunday, March 18th, 1917. Five lives were lost four men and one woman. That was Aunt Janet, owing to the loss of her sense of smell she didn’t detect the odor of smoke becoming confused she found her way to the main stairway but fire had destroyed this exit and her remains were found in the basement of the home. Uncle Joseph passed away in the
Presbyterian Hospital, Chicago, March 13th 1926. They now rest in Rosehill Cemetery, Chicago, in a lot provided by The St. Andrews Society, Chicago, Sponsors of The Home.
Father, Our Dad, was next.
Jemima, was the last. She became the wife of William McKay, a railroad man he was a signal man stationed at Cowlairs near Glasgow. They left Scotland for their new home in the U.S.A. about 1883-4, locating in Cleveland, Ohio. Being in a manner a self educated man he studied and became a stationary engineer being genial and big hearted he soon had a host of friends. He became chief engineer of the Cleveland rolling mills he also engaged in local politics he was elected alderman of the fifth ward of Cleveland but death intervened 1896. The survivors of the family are Robert, Jennie, James and Ralph.
Robert. Our Dad. Of him a great deal can be said. Of medium height broad shouldered, of unlimited strength, something that stood him in good stead for the life battle ahead. He was energetic one of his pastimes was boxing a talent that one of his boys carried on. While he was of military mind his first adventure was naval. He quit his job as an apprentice at boxmaking in McGowans box factory, Glasgow, to board the Confederate privateer Alabama, then about to meet the U.S.S. Kearsarge of Cherbourg, France. The Alabama was lying at Newcastle on The Tyme. Aunt Elizabeth spoiled his plans. She had him arrested and sent back to finish his apprenticeship at McGowans. The balance of his military career was as a member of The Lanarkshire volunteers. How us boys liked to pipeclay his belts and polish buttons. As the years went on Father at the age of 22 was made foreman of the boxfactory one characteristic of Dad was, he would brook no
insult that pointed towards Mother more than one irrespective of weight or height has found himself in the gutter when Dad finished. He would not stand for a whiner at the back door saying so and so bloodied my nose he usually left with a cuff or the jaw of the seat of his trousers somewhat warm. He backed his boys to the limit and he was not so gentle with us either he taught us our lessons. In 1876 when The City of Glasgow Bank failed, a failure that shook the United Kingdom to its foundations recovery was slow Dad decided to go into business for himself in this he was not successful so in November, 1879 he decided to make a new start in the U.S.A. He quietly gathered the little group sold what he could and sent Mother and the children to her sister, our Aunt Janet in The Freuchie, near Falkland, Fifeshire. The children were John, Thomas, Robert, Rebecca, and Jeanie the baby. Dad seeing us placed, quietly left Glasgow, in December 1879, for his new start in the U.S.A. We the children owe Aunt Janet a debt we cannot repay for the many sacrifices she made to assist Mother in the care of her little brood while Dad was doing his best as he always did to hasten our journey to our new home. When Dad left Glasgow he left behind him his father John Greenock, Uncle Joseph, and Aunt Jemima, the above two with their families followed in 1884-86. As time rolled on and Dad with one object in view said, John I want you to be a plumber. Tom, you a carpenter. Robert, you a bricklayer. And these were our vocations. Each of us were skilled mechanics, but Dad’s object did not materialize namely that us three would form a partnership and go to contracting. But as “Bobby Burns” says the best laid plans of men and mice “gang aft aglee.” But Dad lived long enough to see some of the children married, and the others in position
to care for the themselves. While he was harsh at times ready to swing his hand or foot. A good provider he with the help of Mother seen to it that our tummys did not stick to our back bone as is often the case of the alien and his family. Aunt Janet Greenock tells the story tells the story of seeing him somewhere on the High Street of course he was going the wrong way. She said to him sharply Bob, “whaur are you goin’”. Am goin awa hame to Jeanie an the bairns while he did indulge yet we children always had food and shoes for our feet. And when the time came to place him in his earthly home we the older boys were privileged to carry him. Mother relates, sitting by his bedside his lips moved listening for the last few words. Dad was humming a hymn he sang as a boy at Sunday School. Courageous, strongminded. Clean in all his dealings with mankind. Our Dad. We thank our Heavenly Father in being so gracious to us.
Mother. God bless the name, born Jane Redpath. Of her early life it is fragmentary. We know she was left motherless at the age of two, but Mother always smiled when she said how good Auntie Wilson was to her. It has been a source of wonder to me who inculcated into that small mind and brain the many fine precepts that was her guide through life. A wonderful job. Mother was a millworker in the cotton or linen industries in Glasgow. Father and Mother were married December 31st 1869. They remained in Glasgow until 1879, when as I say Father sailed away quietly for the States. Our life in The Freuchie was typical of country life and it was here Tom and Robert got their first schooling in the meantime Aunt Janet married and moved to Falkland about three miles away. Here was located Falkland Castle, that served
as a prison for James The Sixth of Scotland, at the age of twelve years. He afterwards was crowned as King James, The First, of England. His mother was Mary, Queen of Scots. His Father was Lord Darnley. Many times in my visits to Falkland in passing the Castle I have looked to the latticed windows for a glimpse of that little face peering through his prison windows. In 1880 little Jeanie passed away then also during this time Mrs Patterson a member of The Brethern led Mother to Her Savior what a wonderful transition the picture is still vivid, truly [a] pillar of strength for the many trials ahead. Then in June 1881, Dad sent the money to pay our passage to the new home in the U.S.A. As in the case of many who leave their homeland Mother left behind her, Our Grandfather Thomas Redpath, Aunt Janet now Walker, Uncle James and our Cousin Thomas Redpath, and also three whom she loved the most namely, The still born Babe, Elizabeth, and Jeanie. While in Glasgow, Mother, Aunt Jemima and the writer making our way to the steamship companies offices we met Grandfather Greenock on The Trongate a short distance further on we met Tom Guthrie a cousin of Mothers a wounded veteran of The Afghan War. Mother acquainted each with the facts of our leaving as good byes were in order we bade each farewell. In a few days we boarded the good steamship State of Indiana. As we sailed down The Clyde Grandfather and several Aunts and friends waved us good bye. We arrived in Chicago about July 9th. Father as usual had prepared a home as he was working on an elevator in South Englewood we found rooms with the Capper family afterwards Capper and Capper Gents furnishings and it was here that we got our first introduction under the
Stars and Stripes to a Methodist Sunday School. In August Father’s work was complete and we loaded our few belongings into Farmer De Groots wagon and started over 87th street to Halsted Street down Halsted to Root and Arnold Streets -- now Lasalle Street and this was our first introduction to Englewood. I understand that one of the De Groot boys is a foreman in one of the small parks. The children who made the journey with Mother was John, Thomas, Robert and Rebecca. As time went on the family grew five children were born under the Stars and Stripes. Mother in her simple way made a host of friends beloved by all who knew her. She knew her Bible from cover to cover and as I have said the most pleasant hours of my life were seated by her side listening to her simple explanation of the Gospel she was an enthusiastic reader of Paul and his letters she also took an active interest in her countries politics somewhat critical in her remarks. As the family through marriage grew smaller the burden of keeping house got beyond her. Our sister Rebecca in Danville volunteered to take care of Mother and there surrounded by Rebecca, Roddie and Jeanie she enjoyed a well earned vacation with funds provided she was able to come and go as she pleased while I am a firm believer in heredity from whence came those royal and almost regal traits that were hers was it carried through the family line from that princess of royal blood in the thirteenth century while in Danville she had the misfortune to misjudge the height of a curb the result was a broken hip that ultimately resulted in death. In this we the children lost our Mother but Our Heavenly Father gained a Servant the remains were brought from Danville to my home 6749 Loomis Blvd where
the simple services of The Brethern were intoned in the home and also at the grace. And again it was the privilege of the boys to perform for her the same service as they did for Dad.
A Christian Mother tried and true she imparted to her children the superb characteristics of her Christian life.
The children as born to this union were as follows.
John. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, May 28th 1870.
Thomas R. born in Glasgow, Scotland, Sept 17th 1871.
A still born Babe in Glasgow, Scotland, 1872-3 interred in the Necropolis, Glasgow.
Robert, born in Glasgow, Scotland, Aug 27th 1874, is at rest in The Presidio National Cemetery, Pasadena, California. His request was that he be laid among his comrades in arms December 19th, 1936. He passed away in Chicago, Illinois. His wife Agnes and son Robert III survive him.
Elizabeth S. born in Glasgow, Scotland, Jan 24th 1876. Died 1876. Interred in the Necropolis, Glasgow.
Rebecca D. born in Glasgow, Scotland, Jan 8th 1877. Wife of Roderick Stewart. Passed away in Oak Forest, Illinois. She is at rest in Mount Greenwood, Mount Greenwood, Illinois. Several children born in Cheyenne, Wyo died in early childhood and are interred in Cheyenne. Her daughter Jeanie the victim of an accident lies near her Mother in Greenwood. Her husband Roderick still survives and is an inmate of The Scottish Old People’s Home, Riverside, Illinois.
Jane I R. born in Glasgow, Scotland Nov 18th, 1878 she passed away in The Freuchie, near Falkland, in 1880. She is interred in Falkland Cemetery.
Joseph I born in Chicago, Illinois, March 21st 1883. Passed away Jan 22nd 1885. Interred in Oakwoods Cemetery.
James R. born in Chicago, Dec 30th 1884. Passed away
May 8th 1885. These two boys lie side by side in Oakwoods Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois.
George F (?) born in Chicago, Illinois Jan 11th 1886. Passed away in Joliet, Illinois, Oct 18th, 1919. He is interred in Oakwood Cemetery, Joliet. His wife May still survives.
Joseph R. II, born in Chicago, Illinois, Nov 23rd 1887.
Jane R. II born in Chicago, Illinois Oct 16th, 1889.
Father. Robert Greenock, born in Glasgow, Scotland, 1845. Passed away in Chicago, Illinois 1906.
Mother Jane Greenock, nee Redpath, born in Glasgow, Scotland, 1849. Passed away in Danville, Illinois, 1923. Father and Mother are at rest side by side in Mount Greenwood Cemetery, Mount Greenwood, Illinois.
The children still surviving are John, Thomas, Joseph II and Jane II.
As all Greenock men seem to be of a military trend a tradition says that never a Greenock has been left on the field of battle they have been wounded but always returned home.
For some years on some of our western race tracks a number of horses named Greenock are running. Some carry the given names also the military titles as known to the family after several letters had been sent to different parties relative to the owner of The Stallion Greenock who won the Lincoln Fields first Derby. I found that A. B McLain the breeder of this horse in 1933 had been adjudged insane, and all trace of him lost, his last address was Friendship, Washington, D.C. This is the home of Evelyn Walsh. McLain several letters addressed elicited no reply.
John. Married Flora M. Rebman, June 7th, 1899. Children as born to this union were, Gertrude F., born Aug 20th 1900. Jane Helen, born March 22nd
1903. Dorothy P. born Oct 20th, 1905 all in Chicago, Illinois.
Thomas, married Jessie Morgan, June 9th 1897.
Children. Henry, born June 27th 1899. Ethel born June 13th 1904. Robert, born July 11th 1907.
Joseph, married Ethel Long, October 13th, 1917.
Children. Joseph Jr. born August 3rd 1923.
Jean at this time is still single, 1942.
The military records of the boys are, Robert, saw service with the Dandy First located in Chicago. In Cuba, also with the 11th cavalry in the Philippines in this campaign he was wounded. Joseph II also served with Dandy First he was with Pershing in Mexico. He also served in the Aviation Bureau during the 1st World War. Thomas served with the Civilian Engineers Unit a new adjunct to the regular army for services rendered he was promoted and is now listed as third on this units roll call. He was in France about two years.
This and the next page reserved for other Greenock records. As I have stated I met as a boy in 1875 Robert Greenock a jeweler and William Greenock, a shoemaker both cousins of Grandfather John Greenock. Robert died leaving no family. William was known as the man with the large family 18 all told his first wife brought him two children his second wife 16. Robert one of the 16 saw me as a boy about 3 years old, and it was not until February 1939 that I got in touch with Robert and William his nephew. He was the first one I contacted through the City of Glasgow Gasworks, as I knew he had been in their employ. He in turn contacted his uncle Robert and so down the line until I found two new links in the chain namely James Stewart Greenock of Kearny, N.J. and his Brother Robert also of Kearny
N.J., sons of Robert, then in June 1942. Robert, son of James called on us he was stationed at Great Lakes Naval Station, then James, Robert’s Father called on us. Aunt Jean has met about two years previous, our daughter Dorothy was first to greet Robert, and Gertrude has met James and we are proud of them. Greenock - pronounced Grenok.
Being a member of the Redpath-Ridpath families and knowing as Mother said Grandfather Thomas Redpath always mourned the loss of his brother Jimmy, knowing that a James Redpath served as a war correspondent during the Civil War I got in touch with the New York Tribune the paper he served this was referred to the New York Times, and a lady in Englewood, New Jersey saw the advertisement, she in [turn] notified Miss Florence M. Ridpath, of 402 Walnut Street, Jenkintown, PA, and for about six years it has been my pleasure to receive considerable data relative to the above families and I have taken it upon myself to collect any Redpath-Ridpath records in the U.S. and Canada, and forward the same to her for records that she has.
There are two legends attached to the name, one as told by our Mother as follows. A freebooter and outlaw in the latter part of the 13th century who gained his
livelihood by raiding farms running of the stock and killing it, always leaving a bloody trail, hence the name, “Redpath.” It is said one farmer after being raided swore vengeance. Redpath is said to have just laughed. He again raided the farm this time he kidnapped the farmer’s daughter eventually making her his wife. She is said to have been a princess of royal blood, and as I am a firm believer in heredity Mother in many of her fine traits showed a distinct royal and regal bearing.
The legend as told by Miss Florence M. Ridpath, of Jenkintown, PA is as follows. In the early days of Scotland several of the clans bound themselves together as the enemy of another powerful leader who led his followers through a very narrow passage in the mountains known only to himself. As the enemy approached but one could pass through at a time so they were captured one at a time and their leader was afterwards known as “Ridpath” because he rid the path of his enemies, hence the two names, Redpath-Ridpath. In the life of James Redpath we read that the family came from Scotland no date or place given they were and settled in Allegan, Michigan. But James was not the farmer type. At the age of 17 he drifted in journalism and being an ardent abolitionist and anti slavery he soon found himself deep in the cause. He became a correspondent for the New York Tribune. Being daring he traveled through the several States that openly avowed secession so violent in his talks several of these States saw fit to place a reward of $10,000.00 on his head dead or alive. He became war correspondent for the Tribune and ultimately served on General Sherman’s staff in his March to the sea. After this he established the Redpath Lyceum Bureau introducing to the public many of the prominent speakers of that time. An office of the Bureau is still doing business in
Chicago. In 1880-1 during the famine in Ireland a fund of $125,000.00 was collected for the relief of the stricken farmers. Whitelaw Reid then editor of the New York Tribune delegated Redpath to disburse this money and also report on the action taken by the Land League. He then saw the work of Captain Charles Boycott in evicting the tenants for non-payment of their rent. [T]his was despicable and cruel to the extreme. Meeting Father John Haley and telling him what he saw they tried to find a word that would not only describe his work but also ostracize him. Redpath said let us call it by his own name and so the word “Boycott” came into being and its full meaning is to persecute and beat down your fellowman. The action of the Land League created the Invincibles who killed by shooting Lord Cavendish and Mr. Burke in Phoenix Park, Dublin. Several of the Invincibles were arrested and it remained for James Carey known as Invincible No. 1 to turn informer several of them paid the extreme penalty. After the affair had quieted down Carey was put on board a ship bound for Africa three days later he was recognized and shot dead this is all still vividly pictured on my mind. His biographers do not mention his wife or family if any it does state that Mrs Wm F. Morse, his step daughter acted as his secretary. As the result of an accident he passed away in New York his brother John was with him at the end.
This is from a newspaper clipping. The Mrs James Redpath record is as follows. Mary Cotten Taylor Redpath Memorial Day founder, dies at her home in Walden, Mass, aged 91. Mrs Mary Cotten Redpath, whose husband was a war correspondent in 1861 saw many memorable scenes of the civil war whose friends and
and [sic] relatives saw was the founder of Memorial Day, and who was a great advocate of anti slavery and distinguished in many other ways died at home 54 Maple Street, Walden, yesterday she had been ill for several months and her advanced age made recovery impossible.
Mrs Redpath was born in Cotton Valley, Wolfsboro, N.H. Nov 3rd 1823, and was a lineal descendant of Col William, the first settler in the valley. Her first husband Ezra Taylor died soon after their marriage. Then she married James Redpath, a journalist and author a few years before the civil war. Mrs Redpaths home in Walden was a “station” on the “underground” railroad by which fugitive slaves were enabled to escape into Canada and to freedom. Sojourner Truth who has been called the “Militant” runaway because of her efforts to free her people stopped here as did John Brown of Kansas, a short time before his historic raid at Harpers Ferry. As a result of her interest in the anti-slavery cause Mrs Redpath formed the acquaintance of The Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, Summer Douglas, Wendell Philips, and other leaders of their time. Mrs Redpath was in Charleston, S.C. when General Sherman ended his March to the sea, as her husband was a war correspondent and also a member of General Sherman’s Staff. He and Mrs Redpath remained in that city after the close of the war and the latter became superintendent of education for Charleston and the surrounding district. It was in that city that she is said to have started the custom of decorating with flowers the graves of the soldiers lying in Charleston. The graves of the union soldiers throughout the city were in a wretched condition especially those in the race track on the outskirts of the city this place had been setaside as a prison corral during the war, and the federal soldiers had been buried as they died
from exposure and disease in the very troughs they had burrowed as a protection against the weather. With the help of her husband and several friends Mrs Redpath formed a small organization that started the work of raising funds for a soldiers monument the citizens of Charleston and the cause of freedom contributed generously and in May 27th 1867, a memorial service was held in Zion Church. Arrangements were made at that time for the annual observance of the day. The idea spread until within a few years the observance of the day became nationwide. General John A. Logan, The Black Eagle of Illinois, as first commander of The Grand Army of the Republic issued the order designating May 30th as Memorial Day. Several of the southern states do not observe the day.
Mrs. Redpath is survived by a daughter Mrs William F. Morse, and a grand-daughter, Mrs. Frank J. Pool, of Cleveland, Ohio, and following nephews and nieces, William Dudley Cotton N.H., Hugh Cotton, Boston, The Rev Evan of Damariscatta, M.E., Leslie Cotton of New York, Countess Victor Von Wilsdorf of Dresden, Saxony, Mrs and Miss Ethel Cotton, San Francisco, Calif, Mrs A.H. Brown, New Hampton, N.H., Mrs S.H. Maddox, Damariscotta, ME, Mr William H.D. Cotton, Damariscotta, ME, Mr and Mrs E.R. Sylvester, Augusta, ME. The last named are the Uncle and Aunt of Frank B. Sylvester of 1400 Grand Concourse, The Bronx, New York City, who furnished this record. THen in the book called The Road to Reunion, 1865-1900, by Paul H. Buck, P. 116 verifies Mrs Redpath as the founder of Memorial Day.
The main reason for my search through the Redpath-Ridpath records was relative to the
story as Mother tells, Grandfather Thomas Redpath all through his life mourned the loss of his brother Jimmy. The story is somewhat tragic. It seems that Jimmy as a boy of 12 years had a scuffle with his father. He was thrown downstairs and his neck broken. Jimmy fled from home and was never heard from again.
What scant early history and traditions we have show the British Isles inhabited by a fierce and warlike people, barbarians, divided into tribes, but all speaking a native language differing so little that the several tribes could readily understand each other. The Gaelic or native language of Scotland is supposed to fairly represent the original Celtic tongue. Between the years, 78-84 A.D. Julius Agricola an able General and noted statesman carried the Roman Arms and Roman civilization to north Britain, but owing to the fierce and warlike character of the Caledonians he was unable to advance far into Scotland. In 84 the Celts descended from the Gramion Hills [Grampion?] in such numbers and with valor as to stop the Roman conquest at the Tay. In 120, Hadrian took up the work of conquest, but he soon decided that it was easier and wiser, for the present at least to fence the enemy out that to conquer and civilize him, hence he built a massive wall 80 miles long 16 feet high and 8 ft thick between the Tyne and the Solway. There must have been stubborn resistance to induce the conquerors of the World to set a limit to their domains. Although the people were to a limited degree subjugated by the Roman arms they received very little of the Roman arts and sciences. Few indications of Roman occupancy are found and
the Latin language left scarcely a trace upon the native tongue. The Saxons who were brought to the North coast of England near the Scottish border as soldiers for national defence under Vortigern about 450 A.D. were pleased with the country and remained. Although at first a barbarous people much given to war they in time became the lowland farmers find agriculture more profitable than war, yet their love of the latter frequently led them to the field of battle either to repel or make a raid usually against the native Celts occupying the highlands. John Clark Ridpath, The historian says, Our ancestral seat is at Berwick on The Tweed. We are by descent all of us what the Gael of Scotland called and still call Saxons.
Of the early history of Berwick little is known it probably grew into importance during the early struggles between the Scots and Saxons. At the battle of Charham, 1018 [Carham?], the river Tweed became a boundary and Berwick obtained a frontier position. Here occurred several conferences and many battles the being taken and retaken many [sic]. Probably more British, Norman, Saxon and Scotch blood has been shed in that neighborhood than on any other spot in the British Isles.
The Earl of Murray in 1567 summoned several gentlemen of the Merse to attend him and advise about keeping the peace within the bounds of the eastern march. Thomas Ridpath of that ilk and fifteen others were named. They were probably placed under bonds to obey the King and keep the peace toward each other.
By examining Robsons British Heraldry, I find in Vol 2 the following in the usual heraldric form of abbreviated French.
“Ridpath” (That ilk; Balfour and Pont’s MS) Ar.
a chev. engr. betw. three boars heads. erased. gu.
“Ridpath” (Angelraw, Scotland) the same.
“Ridpath” of the Ilk. afterwards of Angelraw Co. Berwick. Arms. Ar. a chev. Eng. bet. three boars heads erased, gu. Crest. a demi - board gu. bristled and armed or.
Vol 3 plate 10 of this work shows a boar’s head erased, or torn off. From these extracts it appears that a coat of arm’s indicating Saxon origin and a character somewhat similar to that of Cedric the Saxon, in Ivanhoe, was confered upon some Ridpath living in or upon a place of the same name that he afterwards moved to County Berwick, which county joins England. In fact, these Saxon gentlemen frequently found it dangerous to govern far north in Scotland, because the Highlanders who were of Celtic origin and natives of the soil had no love far an Englishman, a Norman or a Saxon deeming them all intruders and their enemies.
A friend obtained for me from the British Museum the following notes.
“Ridpath”, of that ilk, afterwards of Angelraw, county Berwick. Arms. ar. a chev engr. between three boards heads erased gu.
“Ridpath,” George author of The Border History of England and Scotland, published in 1776-4 to.
“Ridpath,” Henry Adeney, author of a concordance to the septuagent.
“Ridpath,” One of the authors of a revision of the Church Lectionary by five clergymen of Berwick (H.A. Ridpath M.A Mayou, D.O [?])
In the region and times of which we write the majority were much better trained in the broadsword than the pen. It is therefore not to be wondered at that men of letters were scarce, and probably most of our ancestors were
farmers. From the Dictionary of National Biography published in 1896, we learn that one George Ridpath was tutor to the sons of Mr Gray of Edinburgh in 1681. In 1687 he published a system of stenography called shorthand yet shorter. He was educated at Edinburgh University his name being among those who were graduated in 1699. For many years he conducted the “Flying Post”, a whig paper of pronounced character he was tried in 1713 for issuing scandalous publications probably political. He fled to Rotterdam, returned to England; was again tried in 1723. He died Feb 5th 1726, on the same day as his political enemy, Roper, editor of the “Post Boy”. By will he left all of his estate to his wife Esther Ridpath, daughter of George Markland his only son having died in 1706. Some of his contemporaries spoke of him as a writer of great ability. He must have criticised Pope severely for he is twice mentioned in that bitter poem “The Dunciad”.
George Ridpath, minister of Lady Kirk, Berwick, was ordained 1712. Died Aug 31 1740, leaving three sons George, Philip and William, who all became ministers. The oldest son George, was born in 1717 was licensed by the Presbytery May 27th 1740. Was ordained minister of Stitchell Feb 16th 1742. Married Wilhelmina Dawson Sept 6th 1764. Died Jan 31st 1772, leaving a daughter named Christiana. This George Ridpath collected all available data upon the border wars or feuds which had existed between the Highlanders or Scots and the English from very early times and had all but two chapters ready for publication at the time of his death. His brother Philip arranged the material for the remaining chapters and the book was printed in Berwick in 1776. He was looked upon as a man of unusual ability, was called a judicious and learned man, and his work is considered as authentic down to the union of the two crowns under James 1st. Philip Ridpath, the second son was minister of Hutton, Berwickshire. He was a fine Latin scholar. To him we are indebted for
“Boethius’s Consolations of Philosophy”, translated from the Latin with notes and Illustrations by Rev Philip Ridpath. Printed in London, 1785. In this valuable work he was assisted by his brother George in translating some of the poetry in books I and III.
I have not found any modern Ridpath who traces his lineage directly to the learned men named above but all trace their families to or near Berwick.
--- J. W. Ridpath
I have a facsimile of the Coat of Arms to which has been added a visored helmet typical of knighthood this is said to have been granted to some Ridpath-Redpath in 1509. It is also undlinned [?] by the two names Ridpath- and Redpath.
The motto is (Agendo Gnaviter) meaning by doing diligently.
John Clark Ridpath. The Historian and the above mentioned J.W. Ridpath, in their search through the University of Edinburgh records found one family two brothers one used the i the other the e. The record and all pertaining to it was furnished by Miss Florence M. Ridpath, 402 Walnut Street, Jenkintown, PA, except the James and Mary Redpath.
It is my intention to place a copy of this record in The Newberry Library, Chicago, Illinois.
John Greenock wrote with lovely, clear handwriting but nearly inscrutable punctuation. This version was transcribed by me, so I'll include photographs of the pages so you can check its accuracy.
In the composition book itself this story has no title, but in his letters Greenock referred to it as "The Greenock Record" or often just "The Record", so I'm using that title here.
Property of D.P. Morley [Dorothy Pearl, John's daughter]
8.25.42
Hugo de Grenok. Origin Gael, 1296. The Greenock Family in the United States, prior to 1779. The Redpath-Ridpath Families. Origin Saxon, 450 A.D. United States 1760.
The record is respectfully dedicated to the memory of your Grandparents Robert Greenock, and Jane Greenock nee Redpath.
Preface
Dr. Henry Van Dyke once said it is a lot easier to be a descendant then an ancestor. As one Greenock to another it is my request to you as a Greenock that you will at all times collect and add the same all data that comes to your knowledge relative to the Greenock family. And when the time comes pass it along to your nearest of kin as they in part should have some knowledge as to their forebears. It has been said where
one takes up with something otherwise than their usual vocations it is called a hobby it may be so, yet I am at a loss to understand why our forebears failed to keep a family record with their name its traditions and connections with early Scottish History some one has failed to carry on, so many of us find it difficult to trace our lineage further than our grandparents and a great deal of that is hearsay and our forebears were no exception to the rule. What a curious world this would be if each and every generation would as it were just close their books, draw the curtains, lock the doors and fade-out into the astral blue as some say we do, leaving you and I to peer through the dim mists of the past. Then they say do not go too far back on your family tree as you may find some one hanging on it and this may have proven a retard to many on the same quest as I am. In my younger days the thought of a family record or anything pertaining to it never entered my mind. But since our Parents have passed on to their reward, also that the sunshine of this life is fast casting its shadow down the pathway of my life. Many of the stories and traditions attached to the name have been recalled and it is with these foundations and gleanings from early Scottish history I will endeavor to with dates and data as far as they will permit give you a short yet concise story relative to our forebear and others of the family. As a Greenock I am justly proud of the Greenock men proud of their military records and respect them as law-abiding citizens in the lands wherein they have dwelt. They have served under The Red Lion Rampant of Scotland, The Flag and Banners of Edward The First, King of England, The Union Jack of Great Britain, The Stars and Stripes of the Colonial States of America, The Red And Yellow of Spain, The Stars and Bars of the Confederate States of America, and last but not least the Stars and Stripes of The United States of America, since making this their adopted home since 1891. I am
to the best of my knowledge the last named John Greenock our Grandparents objected very strongly to naming me as such as several children so named passed away in early childhood and as Mother said I was 3 years old before I took my first lesson in walking. As our family consists of three daughters now married it seems as if the direct line on my part will cease, as I believe when a woman marries she loses her identity [This turns out to be incorrect]. I am the first born of twelve children born to Robert Greenock and Jane Greenock nee Redpath. Place of birth, Glasgow, Scotland. Date, May 28th 1870. 123. Sydney Street.
Signed John Greenock, Chicago, Illinois, 194 [sic]
I had originally planned to base my story around our great-grandfather Joseph Greenock and his Peninsular War Medal and its ten bars, but a chance inquiry by a grand-daughter and nephew, “have we a family tree.” This caused me to turn back the pages of early Scottish history, and as I had received my education in Scottish schools, my objective was to find the origin of our surname and its meaning. I addressed a letter to the Registrar General of The City of Greenock, Scotland. In reply I received the following quotation. “The Ragman Roll,” presumed to be the first authentic record of Scottish nobility together with some historical data.
Hugo de Grenok to whom the Barony of Grenok pertained was one of The First Scottish Nobility to give fealty to Edward the First, King of England, on July 12th 1296. Surnames prior to this were unfashionable and persons were known by such names as Long John, Black John, Dark John, Wee John, John The Baker, etc., but on their becoming fashionable these changed to John de Long, John de Black, John de Baker, etc., as many of the Aristocracy took their names from the position of their estates or from a prominent land-mark thereon. It is assumed that Hugo de Grenok derived the name
(Grian-chnoc) from the eminence above the town now known as The Wellspark this eminence Grian-chnoc is gaelic for sunny knowe or a nook in the hill where the sun shines. End of quotation.
The signing of The Ragman Roll at this time may have been a pact to placate the Scots and Saxons of Northumberland who at all times hampered the movements of English armies toward Scotlands frontiers. Northumberland at this time was considered Scottish territory and it was here that Vortigern, The Roman General, in 450 A.D. placed the Saxon soldiers as soldiers of defense who ultimately became the lowland farmers and from this source can the Redpath-Ridpath families. The many changes in names as was customary during this period as it is presumed the oldest male heir generally assumed the name, the estate and title. The others may have become the progenitors of those now known as the Longs, Blacks, and the Baker families. Among the early inhabitants of Scotland were The Celts, The Gaels, Caledonians, Normans, Norsemen, Scots, French, Flemish and Saxons, truly a cosmopolitan and warlike people. A people whom the Romans one time conquerors of the World could not subdue. The rulers previous to July 12th 1296, died leaving no heirs a period of unrest prevailed. Thirteen claimants appeared as contenders for the crown. Bishop Fraser of St. Andrews fearing armed conflict sought the intervention of Edward the First, King of England. He demanded several concessions two being that John Baliol and Robert Bruce two cousins act as contestants for the crown to this The Clergy, The Barons, and some of the first Scottish Nobility agreed and this leads up to our forebear a[s] he had signed the “Ragman Roll,” for Edward. A convention was called. Each contestant selecting forty four adherents Edward himself twenty four. The result was that John Baliol was chosen King of Scotland, thus becoming a vassal to Edward. But little did they reckon on the power of Bruce. Quarrels arose disputes were many. Edward finally declared
war. Scottish historians deny this was a war of conquest but just Edwards way of punishing Baliol for his failure to keep the peace. Baliol surrendered to Anthony Beck, Bishop of Durham. He then fled to France where he died time and place unknown.
Edward is said to have marched north as far as Elgin where he is said to have stolen some relics among them being the Black Rood and The Stone of Scone. The legend attached to this stone is that it is the one that pillowed Jacobs head when he dreamed of the ladder that reached to Heaven. The stone was used in all ceremonials attached to the crowning of Scotlands Kings and Queens. It now forms the foundation of The Throne Chair in Edward The Confessors chapel in Westminister Abbey. On Edwards march homeward he also took with him The Ragman Roll; and the signature of our forebear Hugo de Grenok.
There is a lapse of time from 1296-1600. We read that in 1600 the village of Greenock was an obscure fishing village consisting of six or seven slate roofed houses. Then in 1635 the village or town of Greenock was erected into a Burgh of Barony by Charles The First, King of England, under charter granted to John Schaw and his spouse Helen Houston. This verifies the custom of the time that of confiscating your estate and titles and conferring it [on someone] else and it may have occurred during those stirring times when Scotland torn by civil wars, her fight for religious freedom and the dominance of England. As it took Scotland nearly two hundred years to gain her liberty and it may be that during these times that de Grenok owing to his english affiliations in signing the Ragman Roll; has cost them the titles and estates. In 1773 John Schaw Stewart, is now owner of the Greenock estate. It is presumed to be wealthy as it is said that the docks built that made Greenock famous as a seaport was from monies loaned by the Greenock estate and it is said to receive certain fees annually. Greenock is located on The Tail of the Bank River Clyde, its chief industries are sugar refining and
shipbuilding. They say when you visit Greenock do not fail to take your umbrella as it may be raining or (snauring [?]) snowing. I have no recollection of ever visiting there. Mother and Father have, in June 1881, while on our journey to U.S. We stopped there for ballast and passengers. The latter part of the seventeenth century has some data relative to the family. A tradition says that a Greenock served with the Colonials during the revolutionary war. A letter was addressed to Secretary of War Dern supplemented by the service records of our Brothers Robert, Joseph II, Thomas and his son Harry. This was referred to James F.M. Kinley, Major General, The Adjutant General. He in reply stated that the records of the revolutionary war in his office were far from complete. He inferred that I get in touch with the States that furnished men for service at that time. Letters were addressed to the governors of the several states and it remained for Herbert G. Brigham, Record Commissioner of Rhode Island to furnish the record as follows. From the revolutionary war records of Massachusetts and Connecticut Vol. 6 P.856, Massachusetts soldiers and sailors in the war of the revolution. Greenock, George, Boy, Brigantine, Tyrannicide, commanded by the Captain Allen Hallet, engaged March 30th 1779, discharged April 30th 1779, served one month. He may have been a cabin boy or a powder monkey as was termed in those days and as this was close to the end of the war the vessel may have been taken out of line.
Several years ago in reading a novel entitled, On Defence, Author unknown, the latter chapters dealt with the mutinies of 1797. Several British Men of War whose crews had mutinied were moored at Spithead. It reads that Richard Calhoun the principal character in the novel boarded one of those vessels and being well known he was acclaimed their hero. A short time afterwards one of these vessels slipped its moorings and set sail for The West Indies arriving there in time to
sail between the lines of The British and French fleets then engaged in conflict this action is said to have turned the tide of battle in favor of the British Arms. It also states that “Greenock” was master of the ship and a dour surly fellow he was, “not a Greenock trait.” In this meagre information I got in touch with the British Admiralty office. I then learned that all records of the mutinies of 1797 had been transferred to the Public Record Office. They referred me to a public searcher they also inferred that the author may have used a fictitious name for his character but as I have said the information was meagre I did not press it. Yet it seems rather curious that they make this assertion as the name Greenock not possible the family, but the wellknown seaport, City of Greenock. There are Great Grandfather Joseph Greenock now four years in the British Army. Then the boy George Greenock who served in The Colonial Navy, and one a British mutineer. Then who was the boy did his father serve with King George III or was a pioneer prior to 1760. No Greenock of the present generation seems able to recall it. I have been told that a Captain Greenock sailed out of Salem, Mass, but as there was no data I did not consider it. And now for the part of the story I am better acquainted with our Great Grandfather Joseph Greenock, his Peninsular War Medal and its ten bars. From what I have learned he spent the latter days of his life with his son our Grandfather John Greenock. He is said to have been a man much embittered toward his former army officers the several causes for this feeling will appear as the story progresses. Part of his military career was spent as a recruiting officer at the Kings Cross in Glasgow, Scotland. This is at the intersection of The High Street and The Trongate this is one of Glasgows main thoroughfares and this district was wellknown to the writer in his boyhood days. It was the scene of many public hangings. The last I believe was the hanging
of five boys for sheepstealing. Mothers Aunt Wilson as a girl witnessed this and thus ended the crime of sheepstealing and public hangings. Mother also tells the story of a young woman named Wilson in her hurry to witness a hanging lost one of her slippers an old lady on hearing this remarked she will marry a Wilson and she did. I never learned anything of our Great Grandfathers private life but am reasonable sure that there was a separation or as you term it a skeleton in the closet. On receiving his medal and bars he in anger returned it to the medal department saying if you cannot give me the four bars for other engagements I do not want it he never saw it again for on its return he had passed on 1848. The medal and its bars are of silver and is known as The “Victoria,” inscribed on the rim Joseph Greenock 94th Foot, time of service 1793-1814. The bars are inscribed as follows. Toulouse. Orthes [Orthez?]. Nive. Nivelle. Pyrennes. Vittoria. Ciudad Rodrico. Salamanca. Badajoz. Fuentes D’oner [Fuentes de Oñoro?]. Historians record that Badajoz was the bloodiest battle Britain ever fought. It seems miraculous fourteen major engagements and no injuries suffered as far as I know. A search was made through the medal department for a record of his enlistments. The following was received from The Public Record Office under date of June 12th 1934. Reference No. 1561. Private Joseph Greenock joined with the 94th Foot during April, 1808, date not shown. He embarked for Spain and Portugal, Jan 1810. To France July 1813. To Ireland, 1814. Discharged at Wexford, Feb 3rd 1815, no other enlistment. No information regarding his birth, parentage, relatives, marriage or children can be found. The regiment only took part in the engagements for which he was awarded the ten bars to his Peninsular War Medal. He did say the last few years of his army service was the hardest. There may be a reason for this you will note fifteen years of service missing 1793-1808-1814. What has become of the fifteen years the four other engagements [see Joseph Greenock's Military Career for more on this question]. The enlistment paper
states, no relatives yet I am reasonable sure he had [a] brother as in 1875 as a boy I met two cousins of Grandfather John Greenock namely Robert and William Greenock. Robert was a jeweller and William was a shoemaker and we all knew him as the father of a large family. Robert and William are recorded as witnesses on the baptismal certificate of our Aunt Elizabeth [Grandfather John had brothers named William and Robert. They both were most likely shoemakers like their father, so the author may have mistaken the relationship as a five-year-old].
It is said that on the night before the Battle of Waterloo two brothers whether Greenocks or Bairds I do not know members of the same regiment. One of them wanted a drink of whiskey the other had it. A sort of Jacob and Esau agreement was made one got a drink of whiskey the other a birthright. This bargain is said to have taken the Greenock family out of line as direct heirs to the Baird Estate of Garsherie near Glasgow, Scotland.
Great Grandmother Greenock, nee Baird. To the best of my knowledge I never heard Grandfather, Uncle Joseph, Father or Aunt Jemima, mention her name. As I am still of the opinion that a seperation has taken place and did she later marry the Army officer who afterwards became The Adjutant of the British Army. Did he in his official capacity remove or cause to be erased all records relative to the fifteen years of service. The four other engagements the record of Grandfathers birth. Also her marriage and all records relative to the Greenock family prior to 1808.
In about 1876 Father and Uncle Joseph started a suit to establish their heirship to the Baird estate but owing to a lack of funds and the lost records The Chancery Court ruled against them. Uncle Joseph has said while I may not live to see the day when this estate will return to us I hope you do as I know I am the oldest living male heir. Still I have read through the newspapers from time to time
that either Lord Craven or the Earl of Cathcart through marriage were in control.
The Peninsular war medal and its ten bars also a copy of the record of the last enlistment are now the property of our Brother Joseph II.
Some years ago about 1898 when Charles Mitchell Great Britains champion light heavyweight boxer came to this country to meet James J. Corbett, the Worlds champion at New Orleans. His backer was Lord Abingdon Baird, known at that time as the Worlds greatest spendthrift he remained in Chicago for about three weeks previous to the bout. He went to New Orleans where he died aged 38 years on reading of his death Father handed me the paper saying do you know he is a third cousin of yours and this was the first intimation that our Great Grandmothers name was Baird.
While talking with John Wilson McAllister of Chicago I found he is closely allied to the Baird family. In my search for Greenocks, I found a small coalmining village named “Greenock,” twenty miles from Pittsburgh, PA. The following was furnished by a Grand-daughter Miss Anna B. Wilson of Versailles, PA. William Black a Scotch coalminer bought some coallands started mining and also founded the village and named it “Greenock,” as this was the last he saw of his native heath as he sailed down The River Clyde on his way to his new home in the U.S.A. 1848. He was a nephew of Colonel Nelson the inventor of the The “Scot Blazes” in the processing of steel now known in this country as The Bessemer process, a monument erected to Colonel Nelson now stands in Princes Street Edinburgh, Scotland.
A story tells us that a member of the family was the officer who carried the order from Lord Raglan to Lord Cardigan that sent The Gallant Six Hundred into action, since immortalized by Lord
Tennyson as “The Charge of the Light Brigade.” Lord Locun [Lucan] who gave the order to Captain Nolan. These two possible knew of the jealousies that existed between Raglan and Cardigan. On receiving the order Cardigan’s lips turned white as he spoke these words, “This is the last of The Cardigans.” Captain Nolan lost his life in the early part of the conflict thus one witness was removed. Cardigan came out with the eighty who survived the fight. One observer remarked it was like sending a regiment of boys against an army of giants. Some one blundered, was it Raglan in his jealous anger make the mistake.
Grandfather John Greenock, was born either in Cork or Wexford, about 1814 this was while his father was doing garrison duty in Ireland. He was a wounded veteran of the Carlist Uprising while serving with The B.A. Legion of Spain 1836. The ball is in my possession it was extracted Sept 23 1836. My own recollections of him are quite vivid a man about 5 ft 6 in in height, fair haired slightly turned to red of quiet temperament, genial demeanor, with a soldierly bearing. He was employed as a superintendent of lamplighters by the City of Glasgow gas works. After Granny’s death in 1875, he is said to have married again. He is said to have received a pension from the Spanish Government 1836 until the time of his death, 1893. His stepson is said to have adopted the name of Greenock. Grandmother Greenock, nee Durie. My best recollection of her is as a boy about 5 years seeing her sitting by the fireside rocking the cradle and smoking her pipe. The baby in the cradle was our Cousin Wm McKay. I believe our Grandparents and the McKays shared the same apartment on Hunter Street, as we lived a few doors away I presume that childlike I would go over to see Granny quite often. I believe owing to a fall sustained in this
building proved fatal, 1875. There is a story attached to her smoking during their courting days Grandfather on his usual visit found her quite ill. The Doctor had said it was water on the stomach. Grandfather suggested she try a puff from his pipe. Just imagine a clay pipe loaded with the black twist tobacco they smoke there, “remember your first smoke.” Well it was a radical cure and she smoked her pipe from that time until her death. She never used a new pipe. Grandfather always started a new pipe on Sunday. Granny scotch like would take the old one place it between the bars of the fireplace burn it out and it was ready for use again. I have seen her do it.
The fruits of this union were Elizabeth, afterwards the wife of William McEwan, a malster by trade they left Glasgow, Scotland in 1871 for the U.S.A. after going from place to place they settled in Cleveland, Ohio. Uncle Will was active in local politics and soon formed the acquaintance of Mark A. Hanna, later U.S. Senator from Ohio, during the McKinley regime. The last survivor of this family is Mrs Katherine Capener of Cleveland, Ohio.
Uncle Joseph was next. He was a cabinet maker by trade. He married Janet Black Douglas. They left Irving Ayr, Scotland about 1886, for Chicago, Illinois. Their only child Janet passed away about 3 years previous. They spent the latter days of their life in The Scottish Old People’s Home, located at Riverside, Illinois, on the Desplaines River. This Home was destroyed by fire on Sunday, March 18th, 1917. Five lives were lost four men and one woman. That was Aunt Janet, owing to the loss of her sense of smell she didn’t detect the odor of smoke becoming confused she found her way to the main stairway but fire had destroyed this exit and her remains were found in the basement of the home. Uncle Joseph passed away in the
Presbyterian Hospital, Chicago, March 13th 1926. They now rest in Rosehill Cemetery, Chicago, in a lot provided by The St. Andrews Society, Chicago, Sponsors of The Home.
Father, Our Dad, was next.
Jemima, was the last. She became the wife of William McKay, a railroad man he was a signal man stationed at Cowlairs near Glasgow. They left Scotland for their new home in the U.S.A. about 1883-4, locating in Cleveland, Ohio. Being in a manner a self educated man he studied and became a stationary engineer being genial and big hearted he soon had a host of friends. He became chief engineer of the Cleveland rolling mills he also engaged in local politics he was elected alderman of the fifth ward of Cleveland but death intervened 1896. The survivors of the family are Robert, Jennie, James and Ralph.
Robert. Our Dad. Of him a great deal can be said. Of medium height broad shouldered, of unlimited strength, something that stood him in good stead for the life battle ahead. He was energetic one of his pastimes was boxing a talent that one of his boys carried on. While he was of military mind his first adventure was naval. He quit his job as an apprentice at boxmaking in McGowans box factory, Glasgow, to board the Confederate privateer Alabama, then about to meet the U.S.S. Kearsarge of Cherbourg, France. The Alabama was lying at Newcastle on The Tyme. Aunt Elizabeth spoiled his plans. She had him arrested and sent back to finish his apprenticeship at McGowans. The balance of his military career was as a member of The Lanarkshire volunteers. How us boys liked to pipeclay his belts and polish buttons. As the years went on Father at the age of 22 was made foreman of the boxfactory one characteristic of Dad was, he would brook no
insult that pointed towards Mother more than one irrespective of weight or height has found himself in the gutter when Dad finished. He would not stand for a whiner at the back door saying so and so bloodied my nose he usually left with a cuff or the jaw of the seat of his trousers somewhat warm. He backed his boys to the limit and he was not so gentle with us either he taught us our lessons. In 1876 when The City of Glasgow Bank failed, a failure that shook the United Kingdom to its foundations recovery was slow Dad decided to go into business for himself in this he was not successful so in November, 1879 he decided to make a new start in the U.S.A. He quietly gathered the little group sold what he could and sent Mother and the children to her sister, our Aunt Janet in The Freuchie, near Falkland, Fifeshire. The children were John, Thomas, Robert, Rebecca, and Jeanie the baby. Dad seeing us placed, quietly left Glasgow, in December 1879, for his new start in the U.S.A. We the children owe Aunt Janet a debt we cannot repay for the many sacrifices she made to assist Mother in the care of her little brood while Dad was doing his best as he always did to hasten our journey to our new home. When Dad left Glasgow he left behind him his father John Greenock, Uncle Joseph, and Aunt Jemima, the above two with their families followed in 1884-86. As time rolled on and Dad with one object in view said, John I want you to be a plumber. Tom, you a carpenter. Robert, you a bricklayer. And these were our vocations. Each of us were skilled mechanics, but Dad’s object did not materialize namely that us three would form a partnership and go to contracting. But as “Bobby Burns” says the best laid plans of men and mice “gang aft aglee.” But Dad lived long enough to see some of the children married, and the others in position
to care for the themselves. While he was harsh at times ready to swing his hand or foot. A good provider he with the help of Mother seen to it that our tummys did not stick to our back bone as is often the case of the alien and his family. Aunt Janet Greenock tells the story tells the story of seeing him somewhere on the High Street of course he was going the wrong way. She said to him sharply Bob, “whaur are you goin’”. Am goin awa hame to Jeanie an the bairns while he did indulge yet we children always had food and shoes for our feet. And when the time came to place him in his earthly home we the older boys were privileged to carry him. Mother relates, sitting by his bedside his lips moved listening for the last few words. Dad was humming a hymn he sang as a boy at Sunday School. Courageous, strongminded. Clean in all his dealings with mankind. Our Dad. We thank our Heavenly Father in being so gracious to us.
Mother. God bless the name, born Jane Redpath. Of her early life it is fragmentary. We know she was left motherless at the age of two, but Mother always smiled when she said how good Auntie Wilson was to her. It has been a source of wonder to me who inculcated into that small mind and brain the many fine precepts that was her guide through life. A wonderful job. Mother was a millworker in the cotton or linen industries in Glasgow. Father and Mother were married December 31st 1869. They remained in Glasgow until 1879, when as I say Father sailed away quietly for the States. Our life in The Freuchie was typical of country life and it was here Tom and Robert got their first schooling in the meantime Aunt Janet married and moved to Falkland about three miles away. Here was located Falkland Castle, that served
as a prison for James The Sixth of Scotland, at the age of twelve years. He afterwards was crowned as King James, The First, of England. His mother was Mary, Queen of Scots. His Father was Lord Darnley. Many times in my visits to Falkland in passing the Castle I have looked to the latticed windows for a glimpse of that little face peering through his prison windows. In 1880 little Jeanie passed away then also during this time Mrs Patterson a member of The Brethern led Mother to Her Savior what a wonderful transition the picture is still vivid, truly [a] pillar of strength for the many trials ahead. Then in June 1881, Dad sent the money to pay our passage to the new home in the U.S.A. As in the case of many who leave their homeland Mother left behind her, Our Grandfather Thomas Redpath, Aunt Janet now Walker, Uncle James and our Cousin Thomas Redpath, and also three whom she loved the most namely, The still born Babe, Elizabeth, and Jeanie. While in Glasgow, Mother, Aunt Jemima and the writer making our way to the steamship companies offices we met Grandfather Greenock on The Trongate a short distance further on we met Tom Guthrie a cousin of Mothers a wounded veteran of The Afghan War. Mother acquainted each with the facts of our leaving as good byes were in order we bade each farewell. In a few days we boarded the good steamship State of Indiana. As we sailed down The Clyde Grandfather and several Aunts and friends waved us good bye. We arrived in Chicago about July 9th. Father as usual had prepared a home as he was working on an elevator in South Englewood we found rooms with the Capper family afterwards Capper and Capper Gents furnishings and it was here that we got our first introduction under the
Stars and Stripes to a Methodist Sunday School. In August Father’s work was complete and we loaded our few belongings into Farmer De Groots wagon and started over 87th street to Halsted Street down Halsted to Root and Arnold Streets -- now Lasalle Street and this was our first introduction to Englewood. I understand that one of the De Groot boys is a foreman in one of the small parks. The children who made the journey with Mother was John, Thomas, Robert and Rebecca. As time went on the family grew five children were born under the Stars and Stripes. Mother in her simple way made a host of friends beloved by all who knew her. She knew her Bible from cover to cover and as I have said the most pleasant hours of my life were seated by her side listening to her simple explanation of the Gospel she was an enthusiastic reader of Paul and his letters she also took an active interest in her countries politics somewhat critical in her remarks. As the family through marriage grew smaller the burden of keeping house got beyond her. Our sister Rebecca in Danville volunteered to take care of Mother and there surrounded by Rebecca, Roddie and Jeanie she enjoyed a well earned vacation with funds provided she was able to come and go as she pleased while I am a firm believer in heredity from whence came those royal and almost regal traits that were hers was it carried through the family line from that princess of royal blood in the thirteenth century while in Danville she had the misfortune to misjudge the height of a curb the result was a broken hip that ultimately resulted in death. In this we the children lost our Mother but Our Heavenly Father gained a Servant the remains were brought from Danville to my home 6749 Loomis Blvd where
the simple services of The Brethern were intoned in the home and also at the grace. And again it was the privilege of the boys to perform for her the same service as they did for Dad.
A Christian Mother tried and true she imparted to her children the superb characteristics of her Christian life.
The children as born to this union were as follows.
John. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, May 28th 1870.
Thomas R. born in Glasgow, Scotland, Sept 17th 1871.
A still born Babe in Glasgow, Scotland, 1872-3 interred in the Necropolis, Glasgow.
Robert, born in Glasgow, Scotland, Aug 27th 1874, is at rest in The Presidio National Cemetery, Pasadena, California. His request was that he be laid among his comrades in arms December 19th, 1936. He passed away in Chicago, Illinois. His wife Agnes and son Robert III survive him.
Elizabeth S. born in Glasgow, Scotland, Jan 24th 1876. Died 1876. Interred in the Necropolis, Glasgow.
Rebecca D. born in Glasgow, Scotland, Jan 8th 1877. Wife of Roderick Stewart. Passed away in Oak Forest, Illinois. She is at rest in Mount Greenwood, Mount Greenwood, Illinois. Several children born in Cheyenne, Wyo died in early childhood and are interred in Cheyenne. Her daughter Jeanie the victim of an accident lies near her Mother in Greenwood. Her husband Roderick still survives and is an inmate of The Scottish Old People’s Home, Riverside, Illinois.
Jane I R. born in Glasgow, Scotland Nov 18th, 1878 she passed away in The Freuchie, near Falkland, in 1880. She is interred in Falkland Cemetery.
Joseph I born in Chicago, Illinois, March 21st 1883. Passed away Jan 22nd 1885. Interred in Oakwoods Cemetery.
James R. born in Chicago, Dec 30th 1884. Passed away
May 8th 1885. These two boys lie side by side in Oakwoods Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois.
George F (?) born in Chicago, Illinois Jan 11th 1886. Passed away in Joliet, Illinois, Oct 18th, 1919. He is interred in Oakwood Cemetery, Joliet. His wife May still survives.
Joseph R. II, born in Chicago, Illinois, Nov 23rd 1887.
Jane R. II born in Chicago, Illinois Oct 16th, 1889.
Father. Robert Greenock, born in Glasgow, Scotland, 1845. Passed away in Chicago, Illinois 1906.
Mother Jane Greenock, nee Redpath, born in Glasgow, Scotland, 1849. Passed away in Danville, Illinois, 1923. Father and Mother are at rest side by side in Mount Greenwood Cemetery, Mount Greenwood, Illinois.
The children still surviving are John, Thomas, Joseph II and Jane II.
As all Greenock men seem to be of a military trend a tradition says that never a Greenock has been left on the field of battle they have been wounded but always returned home.
For some years on some of our western race tracks a number of horses named Greenock are running. Some carry the given names also the military titles as known to the family after several letters had been sent to different parties relative to the owner of The Stallion Greenock who won the Lincoln Fields first Derby. I found that A. B McLain the breeder of this horse in 1933 had been adjudged insane, and all trace of him lost, his last address was Friendship, Washington, D.C. This is the home of Evelyn Walsh. McLain several letters addressed elicited no reply.
John. Married Flora M. Rebman, June 7th, 1899. Children as born to this union were, Gertrude F., born Aug 20th 1900. Jane Helen, born March 22nd
1903. Dorothy P. born Oct 20th, 1905 all in Chicago, Illinois.
Thomas, married Jessie Morgan, June 9th 1897.
Children. Henry, born June 27th 1899. Ethel born June 13th 1904. Robert, born July 11th 1907.
Joseph, married Ethel Long, October 13th, 1917.
Children. Joseph Jr. born August 3rd 1923.
Jean at this time is still single, 1942.
The military records of the boys are, Robert, saw service with the Dandy First located in Chicago. In Cuba, also with the 11th cavalry in the Philippines in this campaign he was wounded. Joseph II also served with Dandy First he was with Pershing in Mexico. He also served in the Aviation Bureau during the 1st World War. Thomas served with the Civilian Engineers Unit a new adjunct to the regular army for services rendered he was promoted and is now listed as third on this units roll call. He was in France about two years.
This and the next page reserved for other Greenock records. As I have stated I met as a boy in 1875 Robert Greenock a jeweler and William Greenock, a shoemaker both cousins of Grandfather John Greenock. Robert died leaving no family. William was known as the man with the large family 18 all told his first wife brought him two children his second wife 16. Robert one of the 16 saw me as a boy about 3 years old, and it was not until February 1939 that I got in touch with Robert and William his nephew. He was the first one I contacted through the City of Glasgow Gasworks, as I knew he had been in their employ. He in turn contacted his uncle Robert and so down the line until I found two new links in the chain namely James Stewart Greenock of Kearny, N.J. and his Brother Robert also of Kearny
N.J., sons of Robert, then in June 1942. Robert, son of James called on us he was stationed at Great Lakes Naval Station, then James, Robert’s Father called on us. Aunt Jean has met about two years previous, our daughter Dorothy was first to greet Robert, and Gertrude has met James and we are proud of them. Greenock - pronounced Grenok.
Being a member of the Redpath-Ridpath families and knowing as Mother said Grandfather Thomas Redpath always mourned the loss of his brother Jimmy, knowing that a James Redpath served as a war correspondent during the Civil War I got in touch with the New York Tribune the paper he served this was referred to the New York Times, and a lady in Englewood, New Jersey saw the advertisement, she in [turn] notified Miss Florence M. Ridpath, of 402 Walnut Street, Jenkintown, PA, and for about six years it has been my pleasure to receive considerable data relative to the above families and I have taken it upon myself to collect any Redpath-Ridpath records in the U.S. and Canada, and forward the same to her for records that she has.
There are two legends attached to the name, one as told by our Mother as follows. A freebooter and outlaw in the latter part of the 13th century who gained his
livelihood by raiding farms running of the stock and killing it, always leaving a bloody trail, hence the name, “Redpath.” It is said one farmer after being raided swore vengeance. Redpath is said to have just laughed. He again raided the farm this time he kidnapped the farmer’s daughter eventually making her his wife. She is said to have been a princess of royal blood, and as I am a firm believer in heredity Mother in many of her fine traits showed a distinct royal and regal bearing.
The legend as told by Miss Florence M. Ridpath, of Jenkintown, PA is as follows. In the early days of Scotland several of the clans bound themselves together as the enemy of another powerful leader who led his followers through a very narrow passage in the mountains known only to himself. As the enemy approached but one could pass through at a time so they were captured one at a time and their leader was afterwards known as “Ridpath” because he rid the path of his enemies, hence the two names, Redpath-Ridpath. In the life of James Redpath we read that the family came from Scotland no date or place given they were and settled in Allegan, Michigan. But James was not the farmer type. At the age of 17 he drifted in journalism and being an ardent abolitionist and anti slavery he soon found himself deep in the cause. He became a correspondent for the New York Tribune. Being daring he traveled through the several States that openly avowed secession so violent in his talks several of these States saw fit to place a reward of $10,000.00 on his head dead or alive. He became war correspondent for the Tribune and ultimately served on General Sherman’s staff in his March to the sea. After this he established the Redpath Lyceum Bureau introducing to the public many of the prominent speakers of that time. An office of the Bureau is still doing business in
Chicago. In 1880-1 during the famine in Ireland a fund of $125,000.00 was collected for the relief of the stricken farmers. Whitelaw Reid then editor of the New York Tribune delegated Redpath to disburse this money and also report on the action taken by the Land League. He then saw the work of Captain Charles Boycott in evicting the tenants for non-payment of their rent. [T]his was despicable and cruel to the extreme. Meeting Father John Haley and telling him what he saw they tried to find a word that would not only describe his work but also ostracize him. Redpath said let us call it by his own name and so the word “Boycott” came into being and its full meaning is to persecute and beat down your fellowman. The action of the Land League created the Invincibles who killed by shooting Lord Cavendish and Mr. Burke in Phoenix Park, Dublin. Several of the Invincibles were arrested and it remained for James Carey known as Invincible No. 1 to turn informer several of them paid the extreme penalty. After the affair had quieted down Carey was put on board a ship bound for Africa three days later he was recognized and shot dead this is all still vividly pictured on my mind. His biographers do not mention his wife or family if any it does state that Mrs Wm F. Morse, his step daughter acted as his secretary. As the result of an accident he passed away in New York his brother John was with him at the end.
This is from a newspaper clipping. The Mrs James Redpath record is as follows. Mary Cotten Taylor Redpath Memorial Day founder, dies at her home in Walden, Mass, aged 91. Mrs Mary Cotten Redpath, whose husband was a war correspondent in 1861 saw many memorable scenes of the civil war whose friends and
and [sic] relatives saw was the founder of Memorial Day, and who was a great advocate of anti slavery and distinguished in many other ways died at home 54 Maple Street, Walden, yesterday she had been ill for several months and her advanced age made recovery impossible.
Mrs Redpath was born in Cotton Valley, Wolfsboro, N.H. Nov 3rd 1823, and was a lineal descendant of Col William, the first settler in the valley. Her first husband Ezra Taylor died soon after their marriage. Then she married James Redpath, a journalist and author a few years before the civil war. Mrs Redpaths home in Walden was a “station” on the “underground” railroad by which fugitive slaves were enabled to escape into Canada and to freedom. Sojourner Truth who has been called the “Militant” runaway because of her efforts to free her people stopped here as did John Brown of Kansas, a short time before his historic raid at Harpers Ferry. As a result of her interest in the anti-slavery cause Mrs Redpath formed the acquaintance of The Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, Summer Douglas, Wendell Philips, and other leaders of their time. Mrs Redpath was in Charleston, S.C. when General Sherman ended his March to the sea, as her husband was a war correspondent and also a member of General Sherman’s Staff. He and Mrs Redpath remained in that city after the close of the war and the latter became superintendent of education for Charleston and the surrounding district. It was in that city that she is said to have started the custom of decorating with flowers the graves of the soldiers lying in Charleston. The graves of the union soldiers throughout the city were in a wretched condition especially those in the race track on the outskirts of the city this place had been setaside as a prison corral during the war, and the federal soldiers had been buried as they died
Mrs. Redpath is survived by a daughter Mrs William F. Morse, and a grand-daughter, Mrs. Frank J. Pool, of Cleveland, Ohio, and following nephews and nieces, William Dudley Cotton N.H., Hugh Cotton, Boston, The Rev Evan of Damariscatta, M.E., Leslie Cotton of New York, Countess Victor Von Wilsdorf of Dresden, Saxony, Mrs and Miss Ethel Cotton, San Francisco, Calif, Mrs A.H. Brown, New Hampton, N.H., Mrs S.H. Maddox, Damariscotta, ME, Mr William H.D. Cotton, Damariscotta, ME, Mr and Mrs E.R. Sylvester, Augusta, ME. The last named are the Uncle and Aunt of Frank B. Sylvester of 1400 Grand Concourse, The Bronx, New York City, who furnished this record. THen in the book called The Road to Reunion, 1865-1900, by Paul H. Buck, P. 116 verifies Mrs Redpath as the founder of Memorial Day.
The main reason for my search through the Redpath-Ridpath records was relative to the
Early Ridpaths in Scotland.
Saxon, Origin, Arms, Etc.
Of the early history of Berwick little is known it probably grew into importance during the early struggles between the Scots and Saxons. At the battle of Charham, 1018 [Carham?], the river Tweed became a boundary and Berwick obtained a frontier position. Here occurred several conferences and many battles the being taken and retaken many [sic]. Probably more British, Norman, Saxon and Scotch blood has been shed in that neighborhood than on any other spot in the British Isles.
The Earl of Murray in 1567 summoned several gentlemen of the Merse to attend him and advise about keeping the peace within the bounds of the eastern march. Thomas Ridpath of that ilk and fifteen others were named. They were probably placed under bonds to obey the King and keep the peace toward each other.
By examining Robsons British Heraldry, I find in Vol 2 the following in the usual heraldric form of abbreviated French.
“Ridpath” (That ilk; Balfour and Pont’s MS) Ar.
a chev. engr. betw. three boars heads. erased. gu.
“Ridpath” (Angelraw, Scotland) the same.
“Ridpath” of the Ilk. afterwards of Angelraw Co. Berwick. Arms. Ar. a chev. Eng. bet. three boars heads erased, gu. Crest. a demi - board gu. bristled and armed or.
Vol 3 plate 10 of this work shows a boar’s head erased, or torn off. From these extracts it appears that a coat of arm’s indicating Saxon origin and a character somewhat similar to that of Cedric the Saxon, in Ivanhoe, was confered upon some Ridpath living in or upon a place of the same name that he afterwards moved to County Berwick, which county joins England. In fact, these Saxon gentlemen frequently found it dangerous to govern far north in Scotland, because the Highlanders who were of Celtic origin and natives of the soil had no love far an Englishman, a Norman or a Saxon deeming them all intruders and their enemies.
A friend obtained for me from the British Museum the following notes.
“Ridpath”, of that ilk, afterwards of Angelraw, county Berwick. Arms. ar. a chev engr. between three boards heads erased gu.
“Ridpath,” George author of The Border History of England and Scotland, published in 1776-4 to.
“Ridpath,” Henry Adeney, author of a concordance to the septuagent.
“Ridpath,” One of the authors of a revision of the Church Lectionary by five clergymen of Berwick (H.A. Ridpath M.A Mayou, D.O [?])
In the region and times of which we write the majority were much better trained in the broadsword than the pen. It is therefore not to be wondered at that men of letters were scarce, and probably most of our ancestors were
George Ridpath, minister of Lady Kirk, Berwick, was ordained 1712. Died Aug 31 1740, leaving three sons George, Philip and William, who all became ministers. The oldest son George, was born in 1717 was licensed by the Presbytery May 27th 1740. Was ordained minister of Stitchell Feb 16th 1742. Married Wilhelmina Dawson Sept 6th 1764. Died Jan 31st 1772, leaving a daughter named Christiana. This George Ridpath collected all available data upon the border wars or feuds which had existed between the Highlanders or Scots and the English from very early times and had all but two chapters ready for publication at the time of his death. His brother Philip arranged the material for the remaining chapters and the book was printed in Berwick in 1776. He was looked upon as a man of unusual ability, was called a judicious and learned man, and his work is considered as authentic down to the union of the two crowns under James 1st. Philip Ridpath, the second son was minister of Hutton, Berwickshire. He was a fine Latin scholar. To him we are indebted for
“Boethius’s Consolations of Philosophy”, translated from the Latin with notes and Illustrations by Rev Philip Ridpath. Printed in London, 1785. In this valuable work he was assisted by his brother George in translating some of the poetry in books I and III.
I have not found any modern Ridpath who traces his lineage directly to the learned men named above but all trace their families to or near Berwick.
--- J. W. Ridpath
I have a facsimile of the Coat of Arms to which has been added a visored helmet typical of knighthood this is said to have been granted to some Ridpath-Redpath in 1509. It is also undlinned [?] by the two names Ridpath- and Redpath.
The motto is (Agendo Gnaviter) meaning by doing diligently.
John Clark Ridpath. The Historian and the above mentioned J.W. Ridpath, in their search through the University of Edinburgh records found one family two brothers one used the i the other the e. The record and all pertaining to it was furnished by Miss Florence M. Ridpath, 402 Walnut Street, Jenkintown, PA, except the James and Mary Redpath.
It is my intention to place a copy of this record in The Newberry Library, Chicago, Illinois.
John Greenock
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