Katherine Brown Young De Groff

Katherine was born in 20 May 1900 to Edgar and Abbie Young of Minaville, New York. Katherine's middle name was for her parent's friends, the Browns (Allen and Eleanor) who lived next door to her family.

When she was 19, Katherine's family lived on a farm two houses down from William De Groff -- grandfather of her future husband - Garrett Seymour De Groff.

Katherine married Garrett Seymour on the 4th of May in 1927; she and Garrett lived in Amsterdam, New York where they raised their son.

Katherine lived almost 20 years as a widow; she remained in her home at 105 Evelyn Avenue as long as her family could ensure her safety and comfort. She passed away on the 16th of November in 1985. She lived to see all four of her grandchildren and happily was a part of the oldest girl's weddings. She is buried in Chuctanunda Cemetery with her husband, Garrett.

Women leave a briefer mark in the documentation of American history, even in post modern America, so I find much less of a trail for Katherine than I do for the male De Groffs. So, for me, she is less clear than others I have talked about so far.

Katherine's marriage announcement refers to her as "one of the most popular of the young people of Minaville" - was this a common statement in marriage announcements or a sincere compliment?

Katherine is listed in the Amsterdam City Directory along side her husband - was this common or was Katherine asserting her equality?

So, you tell me more about Katherine Brown Young De Groff.