The Portsmouth Times
Portsmouth, Ohio
14 September, 1901

UNEXPECTED
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Marriage License Reveals
Cousins to Each Other.
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The New Register of Marriage
Licenses Formally Dedicated --
Four Licenses Issued.
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    The ice has been broken so far as the new book of marriage license records in the probate office is concerned. There were four registries today. The first couple to be recorded in the new book of fate was Isaac Pyles, and Rachel Mershon Jones. This was not our “Ikey” Pyles, but the venerable gentleman from Dry Run. He is 78 and the bride-expectant, 53.
    Following these came Walter M. Seel and Louella S. Kyre, both of this city and Carey L. Logsden, of Columbus and Bertha D. Searl, of Wheelersburg. The lady is the daughter of Judge F. C. Searl and a popular county teacher.
    Next was Frank Baker and Minnie May Hughes, both of this city.
    In questioning Mr. Baker as to his former residence, Deputy Gilliland discovered a first cousin in the bridegroom to be. They had seen each other almost every day for years, ever since each had come to the city, and neither knew the other by name, much less suspected that they might be near relatives. Their mothers were sisters. Gilliland came from Bloom township and Baker from Harrison. Nate* extended his cousin the right hand of fellowship in advance.

*Nate B. Gilliland

-- transcription by Kate Maynard, 2011