Settlers and Builders of Ohio

Member jure William Rees (1834) and Eunice Marcella Burch (1855)

The Settlers and Builders of Ohio lineage society, under the Ohio Genealogical Society (OGS), recognizes the descendants of pioneers who contributed to the development and growth of Ohio from its earliest days. Membership in this society honors the lasting legacy of Ohio’s early settlers, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping the state’s history during a time of significant expansion and development in the mid-19th century.

William Rees and Eunice Marcella Burch

William Rees, born in 1834, and Eunice Marcella Burch, born in 1855, represent the strong roots of Ohio’s pioneering spirit. Their lives in Ohio during a period marked by rapid growth, agricultural development, and community building exemplify the resilience and determination that were necessary to build the state’s early communities. Through descent from these ancestors, their story continues to resonate with their descendants today, hio Volunteer Infantryoffering a window into Ohio’s rich historical tapestry as it transitioned from a frontier region to a thriving state.

Challenges in Documentation

Documenting the lives of William Rees and Eunice Marcella Burch presented unique challenges due to the existence of a nearly identically named couple living in New Jersey during the same period. This similarity led to considerable difficulties in distinguishing between records belonging to the Ohio settlers and those of the New Jersey couple. Through careful research and cross-referencing, their correct lineage and Ohio residency were confirmed, ensuring that their true legacy is preserved. The meticulous effort required to separate these two families highlights the complexities often faced in genealogical research.