Thomas E. Connor, Hardware Advertisement

An advertisement for Thomas E. Connor's Hardware store in Evanston, Illinois.  Thomas is the son of James and Anna Connor.
Source:  From the book Christopher House Guild Cook Book, by Christopher House Guild.

John A. Connor, Photo on Rowboat, c1900

John A. Connor, third child of James and Anna Colfour Connor, is pictured here in Illinois with his wife, Mary Bowler Connor and many of their daughters. 

Photo courtesy: Nancy Connor Post

Home built by James C. Connor, 1884-85

"The northwest corner of Ridge Avenue and church Street looms large in the lore of Evanston. Alexander McDaniel (1815-1898) purchased the site in 1843 and built a one-and-a-half-story house: it was the house that Philo Judson (1807-1876), the financial agent of Northwestern University, purchased in 1854; it was the house that Julius White (1816-1890) was renting when he entertained Abraham Lincoln on April 5, 1860. When Robert and Jennie Hill bought the property in 1884, they had the house moved in order to build 'another of the beautiful villas for which Evanston is becoming distinguished.' Designed by an unnamed architect from Milwaukee, it was built in 1884-85 by James C. Connor. After Hill accepted the vice-presidency of the Wisconsin National Bank in Milwaukee, he sold the house to Richard Conover Lake (1846-1919) in 1894. His widow sold the house at 1708 Ridge Avenue in 1945 to Ross Twichell, who remodeled it for a rooming house; and in 1969 it became the home of the Young Women's Christian Association. (Photograph from Fireman's Relief Fund Souvenir, courtesy Clara Andersen)"
Buchbinder-Green, Barbara J., Evanston: A Pictorial History, G. Bradley Publishing, Inc., Evanston, Illinois, 1989.

School built by Connor and McCann, c1892

"To replace the old North Ridge School, District 1 commissioned D. H. Burnham to prepare plans for a new building at 927 Noyes Street in 1892. Built of Milwaukee brick by Connor & McCann, the $35,000 Noyes Street School was thought to be 'a much finer building than the Haven building,' which had been designed by Burnham & Root. The two-story school, 60 feet by 136 feet, had large windows to provide ample light for all the young scholars and a combined hot-air heating and ventilation system that seemed to be 'the most efficacious and sanitary yet devised.' In 1949 there was an auditorium and gymnasium addition designed by Perkins & Will. After the District 65 School Board closed the school in 1976, it leased the property to the Noyes Cultural Arts Center. The city bought the building in 1980, and the center continues to provide space for artists, sculptors, actors, musicians, and the Evanston Arts Council. (Photograph by Waterman, courtesy Evanston Historical Society)"
Buchbinder-Green, Barbara J., Evanston: A Pictorial History, G. Bradley Publishing, Inc., Evanston, Illinois, 1989, page 102.

John A. and James C Connor, Contractors - 1891

"John A. Connor is a member of the firm of Connor and McCann, contractors and builders of Evanston, Ill., who established their business in the fall of 1890.  Although they have only been in business a short time, they are already becoming known as responsible and able contractors and builders, and are rapidly building up a large patronage.  They have erected many handsome structures in Evanston, among which may be mentioned a triple residence in South Evanston for W. H. Blake, residence on Judson avenue for Mr. Joy, Mr. Dunham and Mrs. Childs.  Mr. Connor is a native of Ireland, born in County Wexford in 1854.  At the age of two years he was brought by his parents, James and Anastasia Connor, to the United States, their location at Evanston, Ill., taking place soon after, of which place the the father is still a resident. The mother died in 1884.  John A. is the fourth of their six children, four of who are living, and in the town of Evanston he was brought up, receiving a thorough training in the public school of that place, and afterwards clerking in a store.  After the great fire of 1871 he began to learn the carpenter's trade with his brother, James C. Connor, who for many years was the leading builder of Evanston, and constructed many of the best buildings there.  He remained with his brother for several years, finally acting in the capacity of general foreman and superintendent until his brother's death, in November, 1890.  The above mentioned firm was established, with Mr. Connor and Daniel McCann as partners, the latter having also been with James C. Connor for some years.  Mr. Connor belongs to the Catholic Order of Foresters, is a democrat politically, and he and his family worship in the Catholic church, of which they are members. He was married in 1877 to Miss Katherine White, a native of Ireland, who died in 1883, leaving three children: Annie, Lillie and Nellie, who is deceased.  In 1885, he married Miss Mary Bowler, a native of Ireland, by whom he has three children: Frank, Loretta, and Theresa (deceased)....

"They do the largest contracting of any firm in their line in Evanston, and keep constantly employed a large and skilled force of workman.  they have done important work for W. B. Phillips, for J. M. Larimer, for T. C. Hoag, for Daniel H. Burnham, for Theodore Price, W. H. Blake, F. S. Joy, George B. Dunham, Mrs. George Watson and many others throughout the city....

"In 1889 Mr. McCann, accompanied by Mr. James C. Connor, enjoyed a European trip, visiting the Mediterranean, Rome, Naples, Alexandria and Cairo, passing through the Suez canal to the Holy Land, where they spent some time visiting the principal historical spots.  They were with a party of tourists known as the First American Catholic Pilgrimage, and were gone six months.  On his return he visited his native land, passing also through England and Scotland."

Industrial Chicago: The Building Interests, Chicago: The Goodspeed Publishing Company, Vol. 1, 1891, page 746-747.

Note: Upon James C. Connor's return to the US there were short items in the Evanston Index noting James C. Connor's was of ill health.  Even though this book was published in 1891, James C. Connor died in 1890.

James C. Connor, Biography, 1884

"JAMES C. CONNOR, hardware dealer, was born in the county of Wexford, Ireland, April 6, 1846.  When eight years of age his parents, James and Anastasia, came to Evanston and were among the early settlers.  His father carried on farming, but is now living retired.  The subject of this sketch was one of six children.  He learned his trade with Miles Russell and finished with John Wesley.  In 1869 he bought real estate and commenced building houses upon it, selling the same and continuing such, with contracting, up to 1879, when he bought out the interest of Samuel Reynolds, of the firm of Wightman and Reynolds, hardware dealers, when the firm became Wrightman & Connor.  In 1883 Mr. Connor bought out Mr. Wightman and has carried on the business to the present time.  In 1876 he was one of the Trustees of the village of Evanston.  He married Miss Hannah Doyle, of Chicago, February 1, 1875.  They have four children -- Charles J., Willie T., Mary I., and Annie B."

Andreas, A. T.  History of Cook County Illinois: From the Earliest Period to the Present Time.  Chicago: A. T. Andreas, Publisher, 1884, page 442.

No Senior Connor Death Certificates Available

In doing research on the Connor family it has been disappointing there are no death certificates for the senior Connors.  Requests have been made (sometimes twice because I didn't keep a research log!) for death certificates from Cook County and I have only received a "Certification that Record Was Not Found" document.  The following have officially been requested:

Anastasia Colfour Connor, died April 15, 1884
Thomas Connor, died September 28, 1888
James C. Connor, died November 25, 1890
Katherine Connor, died May 1, 1897
James Connor, died October 2, 1897

In Illinois we are lucky that the State has created an online index for deaths however the above five individuals are not listed in the Illinois State index nor through FamilySearch.

My guess is that it has something to do with the city of Evanston records prior to 1900.  Connors who died in Chicago, prior to 1900, do have death certificates.  On a positive note, very lengthy obituaries are available for almost all of the above and where I have located them, I have posted them on this Blog.

Calvary Cemetery Map, Evanston, Illinois

"Calvary is the oldest existing cemetery that had been established by the Archdiocese of Chicago, although it is not the oldest Catholic cemetery in the area - there are churchyards that predate it.  Catholic cemeteries had previously existed closed to Chicago, but health concerns and the value of the land prompted city officials to reinter bodies in more remote locations.  Calvary, Rosehill, Graceland and Oak Woods all saw their first burials in 1859.

At the border between Chicago and Evanston, Calvary sits on the lakefront behind Sheridan road.  Between Sheridan and the lake is a breakwater consisting of piled up white limestone boulders.  The main entrance is on Chicago Avenue, with the rear entrance directly across on Sheridan.  A wide road connects the two gates. Originally, a small lagoon lay in between, roughly two-thirds of the way from the east end, but it was filled in to create shrine sections.  This dramatically changed the appearance of the cemetery, as did the loss of many trees to Dutch Elm disease in the 1960s.

The west entrance of Calvary is beneath a large stone gate with three arches.  The center arch is surmounted by a triangle in the Gothic style.  Designed by James Egan (who is buried in Calvary), this represents the Greek letters Alpha and Omega, which are Catholic symbols of God as the beginning and the end.

I have included the Section numbers for each of the gravesites I have included in this blog.  By using this map, you will have some idea where many of the Connors are buried.
 
The Calvary Cemetery is located at 301 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, Illinois, 60202.

Patrick Connor Gravesite, Calvary Cemetery, Death notices

This is one of several multi-grave Connor gravesites in Calvary Cemetery, Evanston, Illinois. It was purchased by Margaret Welsch Connor, Patrick's wife, on April 28, 1880 which is the date of Patrick Connor's burial. Patrick is the brother of James Connor. It has eight graves and is 160 square feet in size. There are eleven bodies buried in this plot. I have listed the names as they are typed on the grave card, which accounts for the various spellings of the last name. Where I know who they are, I have identified them in relationship to Patrick Connor (c1803-1880).  I have also listed the burials in chronological order. The site of the grave is Lot 44, Block 11, Section N.



-  Patrick Connor, buried April 28, 1880, self
-  Catherine Connors, 29 years old, removed from Rosehill Cemetery and buried at Calvary May 5, 1880, unknown relationship
-  Mary Connors, 6 months, removed from Rosehill Cemetery and buried at Calvary Mary 5, 1880, unknown relationship
-  Theresa Cosgrove, buried March 27, 1886, unknown relationship
-  Daniel Connor, August 25, 1888, 1 day old, unknown relationship
-  Thomas Connor, buried September 9, 1888, Patrick's brother
-  Margaret Connor, 66 years old, buried September 22, 1890, Patrick's wife
-  Catherine Connor, 90 years old, buried May 3, 1897, Patrick's sister
-  Bridget M. Connor, buried February 6, 1901, Patrick and Margaret's daughter
-  Edward Connor, buried June 23, 1923, Patrick and Margaret's son
-  James Connor, 68 years old, buried February 21, 1925, Patrick and Margaret's son

On three sides of the monument names and dates are etched.

Patrick Connor

Died

Mar 28, 1880

Aged 56 Years

Requium in Pacem

Thomas Connor

Died

Sept 28, 1888

Aged 84 Years

Miss Catherine

Connor

Died

May 1, 1897

Aged 94 Years

Death Notice Patrick Connor:
DIED
CONNOR -  At his residence on Lake St. on Sunday, March 27, 1880, Patrick Connor, aged 56 years, 3 months.
Evanston Index, April 10, 1880, page 2


Death Notice for Margaret Welsch Connor and Newspaper Article
Mrs. Margaret Connor
The remains of Mrs. Margaret Connor, who was killed by a train last Saturday were laid to rest at Calvary Monday morning.  Funeral services were held at St. Mary's Church, Fathers Donahue, Conway and Tonissi officiating.  Father Conway spoke feelingly of the loss sustained, not alone by the church, but by the entire community, in the death of Mrs. Connor. She had, he said, been one of the pillars of the church since its inception, thirty-seven years ago. At service last Sunday morning he had remarked the fact that her place was empty for the first time within his recollection.  She had been a hard working woman, burdened with the care of a family, her husband having been an invalid for ten years prior his death.  She had been faithful over a few things and had now gone to be made ruler over many things.
The church was filled with those gathered to pay respect to her memory and many beautiful floral pieces were presented.  The body was carried from the church by Messrs. Mathew Larkin, P. O'Neil, George Kearney, William Currey, Mathew O'Connor, and William Devine.  It was taken to its last resting place in Calvary Cemetery.
Evanston Index, September 29, 1890, page 2

A Shocking Accident
At 8:30 this morning, Mrs. Margaret Connor, well know to all old Evanstonians, was struck and instantly killed by a train on the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad at Grove street and Benson avenue.   Mrs. Connor had just left St. Mary's Church, where she had been attending mass.  Going down Maple avenue to Grove street she started over town.  At the Benson avenue crossing she found the railroad guard gates down, but as a Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul train going south had just passed, she supposed the gates had been lowered for that, and that the gateman had been slow in raising them.  She walked around the guard and started across the Northwestern tracks, not noticing a train coming at full speed from the north.  The gateman saw her peril and rang his alarmbell as loudly as possible, but before she could get across the train was upon her.  The cow-catcher struck her, throwing her forty or fifty feet, breaking her neck and arm, bruising her in a shocking manner, and killing her instantly.  In an incredibly short space of time a crowd had gathered, and loving hands bore all that was mortal of the poor woman to Hebblethwaite's undertaking establishment.  The coroner was immediately notified, and an inquest will probably be held this afternoon.  No fault can be attached to the gateman for the accident, as his gates were down and his warning bell sounding.

Mrs. Margaret Connor was the widow of Patrick Connor.  She was born in County Wexford, Ireland, sixty-five years ago.  For the past thirty-five years her home has been in Evanston, where she had lived, loved and respected by all with whom she came in contact.  She leaves four children, James, John L., Edward F., and Bridget, all of whom are grown.

Mrs. Connor was a faithful and conscientious christian woman, indefatigable in her attendance on divine service,  true alike to her God and her church.  In speaking of her this morning Father Conway said: "Too much cannot be said of her christian character.  She was one of the founders of our church and has been untiring in her efforts to keep up its standard.  Unflagging in her devotion, she was a constant attendant on all services and was at mass but ten minutes before her sad death.  She was scrupulously honest and outspoken, disdaining subterfuge, but always kindly spoken and thoughtful of the feelings of others."

High mass will be celebrated by Fathers Conway and Donahue at St. Mary's Church Monday morning at 10 o'clock, after which the remains will be taken to Calvary Cemetery for interment by carriage.
The Evanston Review, September 20, 1890, page 5

Monument photographed August 4, 2009 by Elaine Beaudoin

James C. Connor's First Hardware Store

The hardware store pictured here is James C. Connor's first store.  His second building, called the Connor Building, was destroyed by fire in 1929.  However, the little frame store in which Connor started his business still stands at 2002 Maple Avenue; it is now the home of Evanston Photographic Studios."

Buchbinder-Green, Barbara J., Evanston - A Pictorial History, 1989, page 72.

Connor Building Burns Down, 1929

$150.000 LOSS IN DAVIS ST. FIRE / CONNOR BLDG. DESTROYED IN NIGHT BLAZE

    The heart of downtown Evanston was threatened and damage estimated at $150,000 was caused by a fire, believed to have been caused by a short circuit, that broke out shortly after midnight last night, completely gutting the Connor building at 616-20 Davis st., one of the landmarks of the business section, occupied by Thompson's restaurant and Du Breuil's tearoom
    Only the prompt and efficient work of Evanston firemen under command of Chief A. N. Hofstetter, in which virtually every piece of Evanstonia firefighting equipment was called into play, prevented the blaze from spreading to adjacent buildings.  The efforts of the firemen were greatly handicapped by the freezing temperature, which quickly turned water to ice and endangered their tasks.
    The blaze, which was discovered by Herman Eppers, night manager at the Thompson restaurant, had filled most of the building with dense smoke before firemen arrived.  The basement under Du Breuil's tearoom, where the fire is believed to have originated, was a roaring furnace when the first hose line was laid.
Fight Fire All Night
    It was the inability of firemen to approach the heart of the fire which gave the flames sufficient headway to destroy the entire building.
    For two hours firemen sought to check the flames, and at four o'clock, just as it seemed the situation was under control, the fire shot through the roof of the two-story brick structure, one of the oldest building in the downtown section, and all hope of saving it was abandoned.
    Besides the restaurant and tearoom, the building was occupied on the second floor by the Evanston Letter service, MacNaughtan and Appleyard electrical fixture shop, and the Bateman Construction company's offices.
    Although preliminary estimates place the damage at about $100,000 for equipment and $50,000 for the building, the total loss may reach $200,000, due to the smoke and water damage to several adjoining shops.
    A light breeze from the west aided the firemen in saving from damage the building adjoining the Connor building on the west, occupied on the street floor by the Evanston Brunswick music store and the Mitzie Dress shop, and on the second and third floor by the family of L. J. DuBreuil and a rooming house conducted by Miss Maude Maynard.  This building was separated from the burning structure by a single brick wall. The occupants of the rooming house were driven to the street by the intense heat.
Other Stores Suffer
    The Brunswick and Mitzi shops, as well as Kreage's store at 624 1/2 Davis st., Chandler's at 630, and Walgreen's at 634 reported smoke and water damage.  The basements of these shops were inundated with water which damaged valuable stocks.
    Mr. DuBreuil had just closed his tearoom for the night and was at home when Mr. Eppers informed him of the fire.  He attempted to enter the place to save his records and money, but was prevented by the heavy smoke.  Later, however, the smoke cleared and he rescued the records as well as the day's receipts of money.
    A few persons were present in Thompson's when the alarm was first given.  Despite the smoke they remained in the place for a few minutes watching the work of firemen.  A temperature of ten degrees above zero kept the crowd of curious to a few persons until daylight when Evanstonians on their way to work passed to look on.
    This morning's fire is the most serious in Evanston since January 9, 1927 when the old Boltwood school at Dempster street and Elmwood avenue was destroyed by flames with a loss of nearly $200,000.
Erected 40 Years Ago
    The Connor building was erected about 40 years ago by J. C. Connor, now dead, and was one of the last buildings of that age that has survived the march of progress.
    Three years ago the building was sold by Mrs. Hannah Connor, 1220 Maple ave., widow of the builder, and her son, C. J. Connor, a real estate operator, to Northwestern university, the present owners.  A short time later it was leased for twenty-five years, to the John C. Thompson company, owner of a chain of restaurants. The building was remodeled in 1927, when the Thompson restaurant was opened.
    DuBreuil's tearoom, known as a rendezvous for students of Northwestern university, was opened eight years ago.  Mr. DuBreuil's lease was about to expire, but had been extended to April 1, with privilege of renewal at that time, he said.
    Mr. DuBreuil was uncertain this morning as to his future plans.  His loss, he said, was partially covered by insurance, as was the case with other occupants of the building.
Simpson Building Saved
    It is extremely improbably that any attempt will be made to rebuild the structure, since only the walls remain, with the exception of a small portion on the street front. 
    Several times during the progress of the fire, which was brought under control about 5:30 o'clock, the Simpson building, immediately across the alley from the burning structure, was threatened by the flames, but was saved by the efforts of Chief Hofstetter and his men.
    In spite of the heavy coatings of ice which covered ladders, the roofs of adjoining buildings, and other bases of operations, not one fireman was injured.  Some of the men were nearly overcome, however, in their attempts to enter the smoke-filled shops.  When they returned to quarters late this morning many of the men were so coated with ice that their frozen clothing could be removed only with difficulty.
Evanston News-Index, December 2, 1929, pages 1-2.

Early History of St. Mary's Church, Evanston

The Connors, when they came to the United States, went directly to Evanston, Illinois.  I have records as early as 1860 showing them living there.  Thomas, James and Patrick Connor were all contributors to the creation of St. Mary's Church, the first Catholic Church in Evanston.

Volume II of A History of the Parishes of the Archdiocese of Chicago, 1980 describes in some detail the early years of the parish.  An excerpt from pages 1163-1171 follows.

"On June 26, 1864, Catholics living in the North Shore area known as Evanston gathered in the Calvary station of the Chicago and North Western railroad 'for the purpose of choosing a committee to take action relative to the building of a Roman Catholic church in the village of Evanston.'  Of the $1,327 subscribed for a Catholic Church, amounts ranging from $5 to $50 were donated by Evanston Catholics and a few prominent Methodists. Evanston was known then and for many years after as a Methodist town, the home of Northwestern University.  It also gained a reputation as a temperance town, headquarters of the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU).
"Lack of funds delayed the construction of a frame church and so the Catholics of Evanston continued to attend Mass in the German parish of St. Joseph in Wilmette, four miles to the north or in the Luxembourger parish of St. Henry at Devon and Ridge ave. in Rose Hill, a community four miles to the south.  A list of 88 Evanston Catholics compiled in the 1860s indicates that the majority were of Irish birth or descent.  Intent on forming an English-speaking parish of their own, they continued to save money for a church building.
"On Aug. 15, 1865, the first Catholic Mass in Evanston was offered in the open air under a white oak tree in a grove just opposite the present west entrance of Calvary Cemetery.  This burial ground had been dedicated on Nov. 2, 1859 and it replaced the older Catholic cemetery located near North ave. and State St. in Chicago.
"In 1866, a frame structure 20 x 40 feet was built on the parish property and this 'mission church' was cared for on alternate Sundays by priests from Rose Hill and Wilmette.  In the spring of 1869, construction began on a new St. Mary church which is said to have been completed by the end of that year.  The former church was moved to approximately 1421 Oak ave. (where the rectory now stands), a second story was added, and it was outfitted as a school.  Most of the work on the new church and the school building was done by local residents -- after they had finished their usual 10 hours of daily labor.
"Rev. Michael Dohahoe was appointed first resident pastor of St. Mary church at Christmas time 1872.... The parish register of St. Mary church begins on Dec. 25, 1872, with the baptism of John Edward Finley."

Look at the St. Mary's Church plaque rubbing, posted elsewhere on this blog. You will see the three Connors' names listed as contributing on June 26, 1864 to the $1,327.00 mentioned above in this write up.

In the History of Cook County, Illinois: From the Earliest Period to the Present Time, by A. T. Andreas, Published by A. T. Andreas, Chicago, 1884 provides additional information about St. Mary's Church.

"St. Mary's Roman Catholic -- This Church, the only one of the denomination in Evanston, was organized and a lot purchased in July, 1864.  The ground was upon the present site of the church, on the southeast corner of Lake Street and Oak Avenue.  Among the best known original members of the Church were George Kearney, William O'Connell, Michael Cunningham, Francis McLaughlin, Thomas Conner (sic), Patrick Conner (sic), James Conner (sic), John Sharp and Patrick Furlong.  In a few days about $800 was raised, and a small wooden church building was erected, which is now a part of the schoolhouse.  The society, however, was not entirely out of debt and ready to hold the first services until March, 1866.... The Society is now (1884) in a flourishing condition."  Page 435

St. Mary's Church, Evanston Plaque Rubbing

 

In St. Mary's church, 1012 Lake Street, Evanston, Illinois is a bronze plaque that lists all of the individuals that gave money to initially begin the building of St. Mary's Church. Three Connor names appear: James (1818-1897), Patrick (1823-1880) and Thomas Connor (c1803-1888) . James Connor was married to Anna Colfour/Colfer (c1821-1884) and are the parents of Ellen Connor who married Philip J. Sullivan.  James and Anna came to America from County Wexford, most likely from the Taghmon area.

James and his two brothers, Patrick and Thomas, donated part of the $1,327.00 that was raised to build the church. The plaque was dedicated in 1939 and is hung near the door to the choir loft of the church.

The rubbing was done by Carole Keough and Nancy Post (Elaine's third cousin), when Nancy was visiting Chicago from California in 2002. The Connors are ancestors of both Elaine and Nancy. The rubbing hangs on the wall of Elaine Beaudoin's home.

In 2015, I learned the plaque had been removed from the choir loft and is in the Church's archives.

Transcription of the plaque appears in the next blog entry.

St. Mary's Church, Evanston Plaque Transcription

Transcribed by Elaine M. Beaudoin.  Click on image to enlarge.

Katherine Connor c1803-1897 Obituary

The Harvest of Death
Mrs. John L. Connor and Miss Katherine Connor Called Home.
(Note: Mrs. John L. Connor is Rose Devine)

Miss Katherine Connor
One of the oldest residents of Evanston has gone to her final reward in the person of Miss Katherine Connor who died Saturday afternoon at the home of her nephew, Mr. Thomas E. Connor, 1217 Oak avenue, with whom she has resided for the past ten years.  Old age was the cause of death.

She was born in County Wexford, Ireland, in 1803, and came to this country with her brothers in 1855.  For twenty-five years she made her home with her twin brother, Thomas Connor, at the corner of Lake street and Ridge avenue, now occupied by Mr. M. M. Kirkman's residence.  After his death she went to live with her nephew, Thomas E. Connor.

A devout Catholic and an intensely domestic woman, she devoted her whole life to the family affairs of her nephews and nieces.  She was a women of wonderful vigor, never having used glasses in her life and being able to thread a needle and sew up to the time of her death.  She always insisted on cooking her own meals, and did so to the day of her death.  When her time came she lay down on her bed and quietly breathed her last, the machinery worn out and her life's work ended.  In bodily vigor, in mental strength and in moral worth she excelled, and was a worthy representative of these virtues for which the Connor family have been noted for years.

Her brother, Mr. James Connor, survives her, with numerous nephews and nieces and grandnephews and grandnieces.

The funeral occurred Monday from St. Mary's church, and was conducted by Rev. Father Smyth.  The interment was at Calvary and the pallbearers were James H. Connor, E. F. Connor, nephews, Charles J. Connor, W. F. Connor, Frank Sullivan and Peter Sullivan, grandnephews.

Evanston Index, May 8,  1897

Thomas Connor c1803-1888 Obituary

Mr. Thomas Connor, who has been a successful and respected citizen of Evanston for the last thirty years, died at 9:30 last evening at his residence on Oak avenue.  He was a native of County Wexford, Ireland, and at the time of his death was 84 years old.  He had always enjoyed remarkably good health and death was chiefly caused by his advanced age.  The funeral will take place at St. Mary's Church at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon and thence to Calvary.  Mr. Connor, who was the uncle of James C. and Thomas E. Connor, had no children living, but left a twin sister with whom he had lived for many years, and many warm friends who will deeply mourn his loss.
Evanston Index, September 29, 1888, p. 3

James Connor Gravesite, Calvary Cemetery, Lot 44, Block 4, Section Q

The gravesite measures 160 square feet, contains eight graves and was purchased by James Connor on April 17, 1884, the date his wife Anastasia Connor was buried. It is the smaller monument directly above the words on the photo "Connor Monument." It is located at Lot 44, Block 4, Section Q.

The front panel of the monument reads: Sacred to the Memory of Anastatia Connor, Died April 15, 1884, Aged 63 Years, May her Soul Rest in Peace, Amen
The panel to the right of the front reads: In Memory of James Connor, Died Oct. 2, 1897, Aged 78 Years, May his Soul Rest in Peace.  Then further down on the panel it reads:   Helen O'Connor, Mar 13, 1939
The panel to the left of the front reads: Our Darling Margarette Connor, Died November 11, 1890, Aged 9 months.   Further down the panel:  Jennie B. Connor, Nee Colbert, Beloved Wife of Thomas E. Connor, Died Dec. 7, 1921, May her Soul Rest in Peace.
The back panel is blank.
The base reads: Thomas E. Connor, 1857-1929

Sixteen individuals are buried at this gravesite. Where the identity of the interred is known, the individual's relationship to James Connor (1818-1897) has been noted.  The names are recorded as they are written on the gravecard.

- Anastasia Connors, buried April 17, 1884 -- wife of James Connor
- Catherine Haughey, 2 years, buried December 13, 1884, previously interred November 26, 1882 at Lot 2, Block 10, Section O Calvery Cemetery -- believed to be granddaughter of James and Anna Connor, daughter of Mary E. Connor Haughey
- Ellen Haughey, Age two years, eight months, nine days, buried November 21, 1894 -- believed to be granddaughter of James and Anna Connor, daughter of Mary E. Connor Haughey
- James Connor, Age 87, buried November 4, 1897
- Margaret Connor, 9 months, buried November 13, 1890 -- daughter of Thomas E. Connor
- James Kiely, buried April 9, 1891 -- unknown relationship
- Baby Connor, buried May 5, 1902 -- unknown relationship
- Mary Connor, 4 days, buried December 14, 1906(?) -- unknown relationship
- Jennie B. (Colbert) Connor, buried December 10, 1921 -- daughter-in-law James and Anna Connor, wife of Thomas E.
- Thomas E. Connor, buried December 30, 1929 -- son of James and Anna Connor
- Helen O'Connor, buried March 15, 1939 -- granddaughter of James and Anna Connor, daughter of Thomas E.
- James C. Connor, buried May 9, 1963 -- grandson of James and Anna Connor, son of Thomas E. [Flat marker reads: James C. Connor, Illinois, PVT TRP G5 Calvary, World War I, May 19, 1899 - May 5, 1963]
- Daniel J. Harrigan, buried March 18, 1965 [Flat marker reads: Daniel J. Harrigan, 1887 + 1965] -- grandson-in-law of James and Anna Connor, husband of Ruth Connor
- Ruth C. (Connor) Harrigan, buried December 13, 1871 [Flat marker reads: Ruth C. Harrigan 1888 + 1971] -- granddaughter of James and Anna Connor, daughter of Thomas E. Connor
- Daniel J. Harrigan, Jr., buried March 23, 1984 -- [Flat marker reads: Daniel J. Harrigan Jr. 1921 + 1984], great-grandson of James and Anna Connor, grandson of Thomas E. Connor, son of Ruth Connor Harrigan
- Margaret Harrigan, buried June 11, 1986 -- great-granddaughter of James and Anna Connor, granddaughter of Thomas E. Connor, daughter of Ruth Connor Harrigan

Photographed June 10, 2000, Elaine Beaudoin

James Connor 1818-1897 Obituary

Death of an Old Citizen
James Connor Passes Away at a Good Old Age
He Had Lived in This City for Forty-three Years and was Highly Respected - Funeral Services

One of Evanston's oldest citizens passed quietly and peacefully away last Saturday, dying surrounded by his loving children and grandchildren and at peace with all the world.  This was Mr. James Connor, who had reached the good old age of 79 years, and who had been a resident of this city for forty-three years.
Mr. Connor was born in County Wexford, Ireland, in 1818, was married and four children were born to him there.  He came to this country and located in this city forty-three years ago, his first house being built on what is now Stockham Park, just south of the present residence of Mr. D.H. Burnham.  In 1862 he moved to the corner of Ridge avenue and Lake street, where he lived for twenty years.  For over thirteen years he has made his home with his son, Thomas E. Connor, at 1217 Oak avenue, and it was there he died.
His children, most of them residents of this city and all well known and highly respected here, are J. C. Connor, head of the hardware house of that name and now dead; John A. Connor, of Connor & Mc Cann; Ellen, who married Philip Sullivan of Chicago; Bridget, now dead, who married Frank Hayden, Mary, who married James Haukhey (sic Haughey) of Chicago; Thomas E. Connor of the hardware house of Connor & Arnold.  Their children, the grandchildren of James Connor, number fifty-seven.  His wife died fourteen years ago and since then he had not engaged in any active occupation, although his health was uniformly good up to a week before his death.  He worked for a great many years for Mr. H. B. Hurd, Mr. Bliss and John A. Pearsons, and was always steady, industrious and reliable.  His maiden sister, of nearly the same age as Mr. Connor, died in the same house, just five months to a day before him.
His first hemorrhage occurred the Sunday previous to his death and he seemed to take it as a warning and was prepared for the end when it came.  He took to his bed and remained there, but did not suffer greatly.  All his living children were at his bedside to soothe his last moments.
The funeral occurred Monday at 10 o'clock a.m., at St. Mary's church, Fr. Smyth celebrating solemn high mass, assisted by Fathers Conway and Burke.  Father Smyth in his remarks on Mr. Connor's life said: "I may speak of his honesty, the straightforward manner of his dealing with all men.  None ever knew him to be underhanded in what he did or to be other than kindly.  He was broad in his charity.  He included every one in his benevolence.  He always thought kindly and spoke kindly of all he knew well or met as acquaintances.  His friends were many.  Every man, woman and child who knew him knew they had a friend in him.  His long devotion and loyalty to this church and his people here will not be forgotten soon."
The cortege which followed the remains to Calvary cemetery was one of the largest ever seen in this city, and the floral offerings from relatives and friends were very beautiful as well as numerous, and testified the high regard in which Mr. Connor was held.
The pallbearers were six of Mr. Connor's grandchildren, Charles J. Connor, William Connor, John Hayden, Frank Sullivan, Alexander Sullivan and Peter Sullivan.
Evanston Review, October 9, 1897

Anastasia Colfour Connor c1821-1884 Obituary

Death of Mrs. Connor
On Tuesday, the 15th inst., Mrs. Anna Colfour, wife of James Connor, died at her home, corner of Lake street and Ridge avenue, aged 63 years.  Some weeks since she visited her daughter in Chicago and while there was prostrated with an attack of typhoid pneumonia. Recovering sufficiently to return to Evanston, as it was supposed, she was again taken ill and the former disease was followed by aneurysm of the artery of the left limb, and the attending physician found it necessary to amputate that member.  The operation was performed, but with the previous sickness and the shock of the amputation, she died within half an hour.
Mrs. Connor was born in County Wexford, Ireland in 1821.  She married in 1842, and came to this country and settled in Evanston, whence her husband had preceded her two years before, and where they have lived every since.  Five children, survive this mother, three of whom, James C., Thomas and John are well known here.
The funeral services took place Thursday morning from St. Mary's Church.  The Rev. Father Donahue officiated, and requiem high mass was celebrated.  The interment took place later at Calvary Cemetery. The husband and children have the sympathy of many warm friends in this village.
Evanston Index, April 19, 1884, page 2.

Thomas E. Connor 1857-1929 Obituary

Thomas E. Connor, an Evanstonian by birth and a business man here for 51 years, died at the Evanston hospital Friday following a short illness.  He was 74 years old and was born in a house which formerly stood in the vicinity of Michigan avenue and Burnham place.  A short time later the family moved to a new home built by James Connor, Thomas' father, at 1121 Lake street.
Mr. Connor received his primary education at a parochial school here and attended St. Ignatius academy in Chicago for his high school training.  After leaving school he worked for T. C. Hoag who owned a grocery store on the southeast corner of Chicago avenue and Davis street, the same store which is now owned by George C. Taylor, who was also employed by Mr. Hoag and worked with Mr. Connor.
About 1878, Mr. Connor, with his brother James C. Connor, started a hardware business at 618 Davis street, the site of the Connor building which was recently destroyed by fire.  He remained there until about 1896 when he opened a hardware store of his own in partnership with Charles E. Arnold at 605-7 Davis street.  He operated this business under the firm name of Connor and Arnold until 1901 when he bought Mr. Arnold's interest and continued the business under the name of Thomas E. Connor Hardware company at the same address. In 1924 he built the present Connor building at 1506 Sherman avenue and the business has been located there ever since.  His two sons Thomas E., Jr. and James were associated with him in business.  The Thomas Connor residence, which he occupied after he was married and in which his eight children were reared, was located at 1217 Oak avenue but in recent years he has lived at 1122 Oak avenue adjoining his eldest son's apartment, since the death of his wife seven years ago.
Funeral services were held Monday morning at St. Mary's church and interment was at Calvary.  He is survived by his two sons, Thomas E., Jr., and James C. and six daughters, Miss Elizabeth Connor; Mrs. E.J. O'Laughlin of Pasadena, Calif.; Mrs. J. Gaudino of San Pedro, Calif; Mrs. Frank O'Connor; Mrs. N. W. Benedict; Mrs. D. J. Harrison, all of Evanston.
Evanston Historical Society files. No newspaper name given. Clipping date January 2, 1930.

Thomas E. Connor and his wife, Jennie B. Colbert Connor are interred in his father, James Connor's, gravesite in Calvary Cemetery, Lot 44, Block 4, Section Q.

James C. Connor 1846-1890 Obituary

James C. Connor
Mr. James C. Connor, a prominent citizen of Evanston, died yesterday morning at 1:39 o'clock at his home, No. 123 Maple avenue.  He has been sick since August with what was at first pronounced partial paralysis, but which turned out to be ulcer of the brain.
Mr. Connor came to Evanston with his parents from Ireland about thirty-five years ago, and has resided there ever since.  He was a contractor and builder, and built many of the beautiful residences in Evanston.  He was also proprietor of a large hardware store, and owned some of the largest business blocks in town.
He was a prominent member of the Catholic church, and took a trip to the Holy Land a short time ago.  He leaves a wife and seven children, the oldest of whom is 15 years of age.  He has two brothers, Thomas E., and John A. Connor, living in Evanston, and two sisters, Mrs. Phillip Sullivan and Mrs. James H. Haughey, living in Chicago.
The funeral services will be held at the Catholic Church in Evanston at 11 o'clock Thursday.  The interment will be at Calvary.
Inter Ocean, November 26, 1890.

James C. Connor Gravesite, Calvary Cemetery, Lot 4, Block 10 Section Y

The gravesite was purchased by Hannah Doyle Connor on December 16, 1890 shortly after James C. Connor, her husband, died. The lot is 20 x 16 feet or 320 square feet in size. A very large monument, as you can see from the picture, is on the gravesite.


Front face of monument reads: James C. Connor, Died Nov. 25, 1880, Aged 44 years; Hannah Connor 1859-1934; Charles J. Connor, 1876-1944; William T. Connor, 1877-1958
Right side of monument reads: Mary L. Connor 1879-1963; Clara C. Connor 1883-1964; Elizabeth Connor 1882-1966
Left side of monument reads: Lucy A. Connor, Died May 17, 1891, Aged 5 yrs. 3 ms.

There are eight individuals interred at the site. Along with their burial date and name recorded as written on the gravecard is included the decease's relationship to James C. Connor (1846-1890)

- James Connor, buried December 26, 1890 -- Note: even though he died on November 25, 1890, it often was necessary to postpone the actual burial until the ground was soft enough to dig the grave.
- Lucy Connor, buried May 19, 1891 -- daughter of James and Hannah Connor
- Hannah Connor, buried July 10, 1934 -- wife of James C. Connor
- Charles Connor, buried October 11, 1943, son of James and Hannah Connor
- Wm. T. Connor, buried August 18, 1958, son of James and Hannah Connor
- Mary L. Connor, buried November 26, 1963, daughter of James and Hannah Connor
- Clara Connor, May 29, 1964, daughter of James and Hannah Connor
- Elizabeth Connor, buried April 19, 1966, daughter of James and Hannah Connor

Photographed October, 1999, Elaine Beaudoin

Mary E. Connor Haughey 1858-1934 Biography and Death Notice

Mary E. Connor Haughey was born September 27, 1858 in Illinois, probably Evanston.  She married James J. Haughey on February 5, 1880 at St. Mary Church, Evanston.  Their union produced thirteen children: Catherine1 (1880-1882);  James M. (1882-1950?);  Joseph F. (1884-1931); Rose Ann (1885-1973); Laurence (1887-1963); Mary (1888-?); Francis (Frank) (1890-?); Ellen (1892-1894); Catherine2 (Katie) (1894-1919); Celia (1894-1897); Anna (1896-1987); Lillian (1898-1949); Lucille (Lucy) M. (1900-1900).  Mary E. Connor Haughey died November 6, 1934.

Haughey - Mary Connor Haughey, beloved wife of the late James J., fond mother of James, Lawrence, Frank, Rose Mc Bride, Mary Murphy, Anna Walz, Lillian Fiore, and the late Joseph and Catherine.  Funeral, Friday, Nov. 9 at 9:30 a.m. from her daughter's residence, 5536 Henderson St. to St. Bartholomew's Church.  Interment Calvary.
Chicago Daily News, November 7, 1934, page 35.

Mary E. Connor Haughey Gravesite, Calvary Cemetery, Lot N7, Block 22, Section Y

A 160 square foot gravesite is the final burial place of James and Mary Connor Haughey and James' sister Bridget Haughey Deering and brother-in-law, Michael Deering. The gravesite is located directly behind the "Burke Cross" shown in the photograph. Only two small flat markers [Father, Michael Deering  1858 + 1928] and [Mother, Bridget Deering, 1859 + 1939] are visible behind the Cross. Michael Deering purchased the lots on March 29, 1893, the day before his daughter, Mary Deering, age 6, was buried.

Ten individuals are buried at the gravesite. The spelling, as it appears on the gravecard, has been reproduced along with the burial date and, where known, the relationship to James and Mary Connor Haughey.

-  Mary Deering, age 6, buried March 30, 1893 -- niece of James and Mary Connor Haughey, daughter of Michael and Bridget Deering
-  Celia Haughey, age 3, buried October 13, 1897 -- believed to be daughter of James and Mary Connor Haughey
-  Lucy Haughey, 7 mos., buried December 12, 1900 -- daughter of  James and Mary Connor Haughey
-  Rosie Deering, still, buried August 24, 1901 -- niece of James and Mary Connor Haughey, daughter of Michael and Bridget Haughey Deering
-  Frank Deering, age 12, buried November 5, 1911 -- nephew of James and Mary Connor Haughey, son of Michael and Bridget Deering
-  Catherine Houghey, buried June 12, 1919 -- daughter of James and Mary Connor Haughey
-  Michael J. Deering, buried June 11, 1928 -- brother-in-law of James and Mary Connor Haughey
-  James J. Houghey, buried April 26, 1932 -- husband of Mary Connor Haughey
-  Mary Houghey, buried November 9, 1934 -- self
-  Bridget Deering, buried March 18, 1939 -- wife of Michael Deering, sister-in-law to James and Mary Connor Haughey

John A. Connor, c1854-1932 Biography and Obituary

John A. Connor, was born c1854 in County Wexford, Ireland. He was the fourth of six Connor children born to James and Anastasia (Colfour/Colfer) Connor. He married Catherine A. White (1851-1883) at St. Mary's Church, Evanston on September 30, 1877. They had three daughters, Annie (b1878), Lillian (b1879) and Ellin (1883-1883). Catherine died only four months after Ellin's birth and Ellin died just three months later. John then married Mary Bowler at St. Patrick's Church, Chicago, on February 7, 1885. He had nine more children, Francis John (1886-1841), Loretta Miriam (1887-1965), Theresa (1889-1890), Irene (1892-1893), Madeleine (1894-1931), Marcella (1895-   ), John (1898-1900), Mary Elizabeth (1898-1917), Lucille (1900-1986), and Carolyn (1902-1922).

His obituary in the Evanston Review, March 17, 1932, page 53 reads:
"Funeral services for John A. Connor of Chicago, for many years a resident of Evanston, were held at St. Ignatius' Church in Chicago last Thursday.  Burial was in Calvary cemetery.  Mr. Connor, who was 78 years old, died Tuesday of last week in the Oak Park hospital.
He was the brother of the late Thomes E. Connor and is survived by five daughters, a son and a sister.  They are Mrs. Anna O'Malia, and Miss Lucille Connor, both of Evanston, Mrs. Lillian Garrity and Mrs. Marcella Leibach of Chicago, and Miss Loretta Connor of New York, Frank Connor and Mrs. Mary Haughey of Chicago.
Mr. Connor was a pioneer member of St. Mary's church here and was a member of the contracting firm of Connor and McCann."

John A. Connor Gravesite, Calvary Cemetery, South 1/2, Lot 14, Block 9, Section D

In the south half of Lot 14, Block 9, Section D in Evanston, Illinois' Calvary Cemetery twelve individual are buried. John A. Connor purchased the plot on April 3, 1883, ten days before his wife, Catherine (Katie) A. (White) Connors died. The plot is 80 square feet and the gravecard states that it includes three graves. The list of the deceased, as recorded on the gravecard including spelling of names, are listed below. Where known, the relationship to John A. Connor is noted.

-  Kate Armstrong, buried June 16, 1861 -- relationship unknown
-  Patrick Armstrong, buried June 16, 1861 -- relationship unknown
-  A child of John Hanlon, buried July 23, 1867 -- relationship unknown
-  Catherine A. Connors, buried April 13, 1883 -- first wife of John A. Connor, i.e., Catherine White
-  Ellen Conners, aged 6 months, buried July 24, 1883 -- daughter of John A. and Catherine White
-  Theresa Connor, aged 10 months, buried April 12, 1890 -- daughter of John A. and Mary Bowler
-  Irene Connor, aged 1, buried October 16, 1893 -- daughter of John A. and Mary Bowler
-  John Connor, aged 1, buried February 13, 1900 -- son of John A. and Mary Bowler
-  Mary Connor, buried August 30, 1903 -- second wife of John A. Connor, i.e., Mary Bowler
-  Mary Connor, buried June 26, 1917 -- daughter of John A. and Mary Bowler
-  Caroline Connor, buried December 18, 1922 -- daughter of John A. and Mary Bowler
-  John A. Connor, buried March 10, 1932 -- self


Note: The first three individuals buried in the John A. Connor plot were buried before the date of purchase of the plot. Best guess is they were buried elsewhere in the cemetery and are either children of family or friends of the Connors. When the plot was purchased, their remains were interred at the time Catherine A. Connor was buried.

The carving on the stone reads:

Mary Bowler Connor

1863-1903

Theresa 10 months

Irene 16 months

John 2 years

Mary 19 years

Carolyn

Katie White Connor

1853-1883

Nellie 6 months

Photographed April 5, 2010, Elaine Beaudoin

Bridget Lucy Connor Headen c1854-1876 Death Notices

Headen - At Evanston, Dec. 23.  Bridget Lucy Headen, wife of Francis Headen.  Funeral at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 26 by carriages to Calvary.  Relatives and friends are invited.
Chicago Tribune, December 25, 1876, Page 8.

In Memoriam
On Saturday last, close on the confines of the Sabbath day, Mrs. Frank Headen departed this life.  For almost a year she had been confined to her room, gradually getting weaker and weaker, and at intervals suffering the extremity of pain. On Tuesday her remains were conveyed to Calvary Cemetery, and temporarily placed in the receiving vault. In the coming spring the grass which will be green above her narrow bed, and the fragrant flowers which will be placed thereon by loving hands will speak fitly and sweetly of a life, that in the even tenor of its way, was a daily benediction to all encircled by it.  The Evanston Index, December 30, 1876, page 3.

Bridget Lucy Connor Headen Gravesite, Calvary Cemetery, Lot 40, Block 10, Section N

Francis Headen, Bridget L. Connor's husband, purchased the cemetery plot at Calvary Cemetery on January 18, 1870, one year before the first person was buried there.  It is in Section N, Block 10, Lot 40 and measures 160 feet with room for eight graves.  Fourteen individuals are buried in the Headen plot.  The information below is transcribed from the grave card, including the spellings as provided on the card.  However, the interred individuals are listed in chronological order rather than the order in which they were added to the gravecard.  Where known, the relationship of the deceased to Bridget L. Connor and/or Francis Headen is noted.

-  John Headen, buried January 15, 1871 -- unknown relationship
-  James P. Heden, aged 2 years, 6 months, buried May 11, 1875 -- unknown relationship
-  Bridget L. Headen, buried February 5, 1877 -- Bridget L. Connor, first wife of Francis Headen
-  Patrick T. Headen, buried October 21, 1878 -- unknown relationship
-  Michael Headen, buried February 18, 1879 -- possible father of Francis Headen [In St. Mary's Church register is says he was 73 years, 4 mos, 17 days old]
-  Genevieve Headen, aged 8 months, 11 days, buried August 29, 1883 -- daughter of Francis Headen and Agnes McCanna
-  Mabel Headen, buried January 8, 1884 -- mother of Francis Headen
-  Joseph Header, buried November 11, 1891 -- unknown relationship
-  Francis Headen, buried December 3, 1906 -- self-  Agnes E. Headen, buried December 26, 1909 -- Agnes E. McCanna, second wife of Francis Headen
-  Mary L. Devlin, buried October 12, 1918 -- [Marker reads: Mary Louise Devlin, Sept. 8, 1917, Oct. 9, 1918] -- granddaughter of Francis Headen and Agnes McCanna, daughter of Mabel Agnes Headen Devlin
-  George Headen, buried August 24, 1929 -- son of Francis Headen and Agnes McCanna [Flat marker: George Headen, Mar. 24, 1881, Aug. 22, 1929]
-  Mary Headen, buried July 3, 1931 -- daughter of Francis Headen and Agnes McCanna
-  John Headen, buried July 15, 1937 -- son of Francis Headen and Bridget Lucy Connor

Front of monument, East side:
Bridget
Wife of
Francis Headen
Died Dec. 23, 1876
Aged 27 Yrs

Frank Headen
Died Nov 20, 1906
Aged 66 Yrs

Agnes E. Headen
Died Dec. 23, 1909
Aged 60 Years

Bottom of front face: F. HEADON

South side:
Michael Headen
Died Feb 18, 1879
Aged 72 YR 4 MOS, 18DS

Mabel Headen
Died Jan 7, 1884
Aged 78 Yrs

James P. Headen
Died May 7, 1875
Aged 2 yrs, 6mos, 11 ds

West side:
John Headen
Died Jan. 19, 1871
Aged 24 YRS

Patrick Headen
Died Oct 20, 1876
Aged 40 Yrs 8 mos 6 ds

North side:
Genevieve Headen
Died Aug 28, 1883

 
Photographed: February 16, 2002 by Elaine Beaudoin