Mayme Hanley

How I Introduce Myself to the Current Residents of an Ancestral Home

How I Introduce Myself to the Current Residents of an Ancestral Home

I finally stood in front of the Hanley homestead in Atlantic Mine, a house I’d heard about all my life. Instead of knocking, I left a letter — though not before giving in to the temptation of the doorbell. This is the story of that visit, the family lore tied to the house, and what it meant to leave something behind.

Albert "Rabbit" Zenner (1886-1964): Woodsman of the Upper Peninsula

Albert "Rabbit" Zenner (1886-1964): Woodsman of the Upper Peninsula

When you discover a relative in your family tree nicknamed "Rabbit" you obviously have to find and tell his story. Here it is.

Making Kuchen, Bread, and Wickelklöße With a Smile: Martha Zenner Muenzel (1868-1960)

Making Kuchen, Bread, and Wickelklöße With a Smile: Martha Zenner Muenzel (1868-1960)

By all accounts Martha Zenner Muenzel (1868-1960) was a wonderful German cook. Some of her specialities were Kucken and Wickelklöße. She was likely my 1st cousin 4x removed. The is her story.   

From Pew to Bar and Back Again: John "Jack" Hanley (1885-1946)

From Pew to Bar and Back Again: John "Jack" Hanley (1885-1946)

Whether praying in the pews or tending the family bar, John "Jack" Hanley (1885-1946) was a man of faith and familial duty. This is his story.