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“Wicked” Book Review

Tom Knuppel Other
wicked

 Book Review: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West

                    by Gregory Maguire

Gregory Maguire’s Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West* is a spellbinding tale that reimagines one of literature’s most infamous villains. Published in 1995, this novel serves as a revisionist take on L. Frank Baum’s *The Wonderful Wizard of Oz*, providing readers with a complex and often sympathetic portrait of the Wicked Witch of the West, who is named Elphaba in Maguire’s narrative. Wicked is the first book in Maguire’s *The Wicked Years* series, which also includes *Son of a Witch* (2005), *A Lion Among Men* (2008), and *Out of Oz* (2011).

With its intricate world-building, morally ambiguous characters, and politically charged themes, *Wicked* transforms the simple fairy-tale setting of Oz into a rich, multi-layered landscape. Spanning 406 pages in its original edition, the novel explores issues of power, identity, and the nature of evil, making it both a fantasy epic and a sharp social commentary.

 Summary of the Story

The novel opens with a retelling of Elphaba’s birth in the rural area of Munchkinland, where her green skin and sharp teeth immediately set her apart. Maguire presents her as an outsider from the very beginning, an image that will follow her throughout her life. Elphaba is born to Melena, a dissatisfied housewife, and Frex, a devoutly religious minister, both of whom grapple with feelings of alienation and disappointment over their peculiar child.

Elphaba’s journey takes her to Shiz University, where she befriends Glinda (the Good Witch) and begins to understand the political tensions gripping Oz. Maguire’s Oz is no utopia but a land of social inequality, oppression, and tyranny, ruled by the manipulative Wizard. These political realities awaken Elphaba’s sense of justice, turning her into a radical activist rather than the cackling villain of Baum’s tale.

As the novel progresses, Elphaba’s personal struggles intertwine with larger societal issues. Her tragic transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West is not the result of inherent malice but of systemic injustices, personal heartbreak, and the weight of misunderstood intentions. By the time Dorothy arrives in Oz, the reader has a completely different perspective on the events leading up to Elphaba’s death, making her fate all the more poignant.

 Themes and Writing Style in Wicked

Maguire’s prose is lush and descriptive, immersing readers in the vibrant and often darkly surreal world of Oz. The novel delves into themes of morality, free will, and the complexity of good and evil. By telling the story from Elphaba’s perspective, Maguire questions the binary labels of “good” and “evil” that are so prevalent in traditional fairy tales.

The book also addresses timely social and political issues, such as discrimination, environmental destruction, and authoritarianism. Through the lens of Oz, Maguire critiques our own world, showing how power and propaganda can shape narratives and marginalize certain groups.

 Comparison to Other Works

Gregory Maguire is known for his ability to take well-loved tales and flip them on their heads, often providing a darker, more introspective take on familiar stories. In addition to *The Wicked Years*, Maguire has written several other notable novels, including:

– Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister (1999): A retelling of *Cinderella* from the perspective of one of the stepsisters.
– Mirror Mirror (2003): A reimagining of the Snow White story set in Renaissance Italy.
– After Alice (2015): A companion novel to Lewis Carroll’s *Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland*, focusing on the characters left behind after Alice’s journey.

Maguire’s works are characterized by their complex characters, richly imagined settings, and thought-provoking themes. While his writing may not appeal to readers seeking straightforward retellings, fans of literary fiction and speculative reimaginings will find his stories deeply rewarding.

 Interesting Facts About Wicked

1. Broadway Adaptation: *Wicked* inspired the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical of the same name, which debuted in 2003. The musical, however, significantly alters the tone and storyline of the book, opting for a more hopeful and upbeat interpretation of Elphaba’s life.

2. Cultural Impact: The novel has become a cultural phenomenon, cementing Elphaba as a symbol of misunderstood outsiders and anti-heroes.

3. Language and Politics: Maguire invented a unique slang and political structure for Oz, adding depth to the world-building. For example, the concept of “Animal” (sentient animals) rights plays a critical role in the story.

4. Illustrations: The original hardcover edition includes beautiful illustrations by Douglas Smith, which enhance the immersive experience of the novel.

 Strengths and Weaknesses

One of Wicked’s greatest strengths is its ability to humanize a character who was previously seen as a caricature of evil. Elphaba’s struggles with her identity, morality, and relationships make her a deeply relatable and compelling protagonist. The novel’s exploration of the gray areas of morality is another highlight, challenging readers to question their assumptions about heroes and villains.

However, the book’s dense prose and philosophical tangents may not appeal to all readers. The narrative occasionally meanders, and some subplots feel underdeveloped. Additionally, the novel’s darker tone and complex political themes make it less accessible than the Broadway musical adaptation.

Rating and Conclusion

Overall, Wicked is a masterful reimagining of a classic tale, offering a fresh perspective on one of literature’s most iconic villains. Gregory Maguire’s ability to blend fantasy with social commentary makes the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking. While its dense prose and mature themes may not appeal to everyone, fans of literary fiction and complex world-building will find much to admire.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The book loses one star for its occasional pacing issues and complexity, which might alienate some readers. However, its originality, depth, and emotional resonance make it a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and character-driven narratives. Wicked not only redefines the Wicked Witch but also challenges readers to rethink the very nature of storytelling itself.

 

“The Plantagenets” Book Review

Tom Knuppel Other

Book Review: “The Plantagenets” by Dan Jones.

*The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England by Dan Jones is a sweeping narrative that delves into one of the most tumultuous and transformative dynasties in English history. Spanning 635 pages, this book transports readers through three centuries of British rule, intrigue, warfare, and political evolution, exploring the lives and legacies of the Plantagenet kings and queens. With a vibrant prose style, Jones brings this medieval period alive, capturing both the grand sweep of history and the intimate, often brutal details of courtly life.

Overview

Published in 2012, The Plantagenets is the first of Jones’s deep dives into British royal history. The book is structured chronologically, detailing the origins, rise, and eventual fall of the Plantagenet dynasty, a family that ruled England from the accession of Henry II in 1154 until the death of Richard II in 1399. Jones’s narrative begins with the founding of the dynasty, focusing on Henry II’s consolidation of power, followed by a thrilling account of the political rivalries, military campaigns, and shifting alliances that defined this era. Through each king and queen, Jones explores the gradual evolution of England’s political structures, examining the monarchy’s conflicts with the nobility, the Church, and continental powers.

Jones provides detailed profiles of each ruler, examining the complexities of their personalities, their ambitions, and their influence on England and Europe as a whole. Notably, he doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the dynasty—whether it’s King John’s infamously tyrannical reign, the ruthless execution of rivals, or the constant civil wars. The narrative is rich with drama, as Jones demonstrates the Plantagenets’ contributions to shaping the identity of England, particularly through foundational changes like the Magna Carta and the establishment of parliamentary systems.

Writing Style and Approach

Jones’s approach to history is both academic and accessible. His writing is vivid and engaging, often using novelistic elements that help readers visualize the brutal landscapes, the architectural marvels, and the personalities that populated the Plantagenet court. His prose is easy to follow, making complex medieval politics and long wars manageable and even entertaining for general readers. This is no dry history textbook but a lively retelling that makes the Plantagenets and their world feel real and relevant. His style also appeals to readers who may be intimidated by medieval history or find it too dense. Jones uses narrative techniques that keep the pacing brisk, almost as though we’re following an epic saga.

Jones balances narrative storytelling with solid scholarship, grounding his accounts in reliable primary sources and established research. While he certainly brings his own interpretation to historical events, his presentation remains clear and fact-driven. This combination of readability and academic rigor makes The Plantagenets suitable for both casual readers and history enthusiasts.

Themes and Analysis

A major theme in The Plantagenets is the concept of kingship—what it means to wield power and the inherent responsibilities, burdens, and often impossible expectations it entails. Jones explores the way each king’s personality and character shaped their rule. For example, he examines Henry II’s intelligence and administrative genius, but he also shows how this was tempered by his often turbulent relationship with his wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and his rebellious sons. In contrast, Jones paints Richard the Lionheart as a warrior king, more interested in glory on the battlefield than the governance of his realm.

Another prominent theme is the importance of family alliances and rivalries. The Plantagenets’ story is full of familial betrayals, where brothers, fathers, and sons constantly undermine each other for power. This family dynamic adds a fascinating dimension to the broader political intrigue. For instance, the tensions between Henry II and his sons (particularly Richard and John) provide insight into the risks and fragility of hereditary rule.

The narrative also emphasizes how the Plantagenets forged England into a more centralized, powerful state. They played a significant role in shaping the English legal system, building military prowess, and crafting the image of England as a powerful and unified nation. Jones argues that despite their brutality and failings, the Plantagenets contributed foundational elements to the modern English state, making them critical figures in British history.

Additional Works by Dan Jones

Dan Jones is a well-regarded historian who has written several other popular history books focusing on medieval England and the British monarchy. Following *The Plantagenets*, Jones published *The Wars of the Roses* in 2014, which serves as a companion volume, detailing the brutal civil war that ended the Plantagenet line and ushered in the Tudor dynasty. Other notable works include *Magna Carta: The Birth of Liberty* (2015), which examines the legacy of this foundational document, and *The Templars: The Rise and Spectacular Fall of God’s Holy Warriors* (2017), which covers the history of the Knights Templar. Each of his books showcases his talent for making history accessible and engaging, with a strong emphasis on storytelling.

Rating and Conclusion

I would give The Plantagenets by Dan Jones a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. The book is impressively comprehensive yet remains approachable and engaging for a wide audience. It offers a well-rounded portrayal of one of England’s most influential dynasties, blending historical fact with the intrigue and drama that marked the Plantagenet reign.

While the book’s readability and Jones’s narrative skill are clear strengths, some readers might find his interpretations slightly romanticized or simplified in places. However, for those interested in a captivating introduction to medieval English history, *The Plantagenets* is an excellent choice. With its vivid storytelling and thorough historical detail, this book both entertains and educates, bringing the tumultuous world of the Plantagenets to life in a way few histories do. Whether you’re a history novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this book offers valuable insights into the legacy of a dynasty that helped to shape modern England.

“The Nightengale” by Kristen Hannah

Tom Knuppel Other ,
Hannah

 

“The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah’s *The Nightingale* is a stirring historical novel set in France during World War II. Spanning 440 pages, this book takes readers deep into the struggles, sacrifices, and endurance of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle Mauriac, as they navigate the harrowing realities of Nazi occupation. Published in 2015, *The Nightingale* has since garnered acclaim for its portrayal of women’s resilience and bravery, depicting a side of war often left untold in traditional war literature.

Plot Summary and Themes

The story centers on two very different sisters with one powerful bond: love for family and for France. Vianne, the elder sister, is a cautious schoolteacher with a daughter, and her husband is sent to the front lines as the Nazis begin their occupation. Her life is thrown into chaos when a German officer billeted in her home forces her to make unspeakable choices to protect her daughter. Meanwhile, Isabelle, the rebellious and fiercely independent younger sister, joins the French Resistance. Driven by a desire to fight for her country’s freedom and her own sense of purpose, Isabelle undertakes dangerous missions, risking her life to save downed Allied airmen and help them escape across the Pyrenees Mountains.

Hannah uses the contrasting perspectives of Vianne and Isabelle to showcase two different but equally courageous responses to war. Vianne’s decisions reflect the quiet resilience of a mother doing whatever it takes to keep her child safe in a world of threats, while Isabelle’s actions capture the passion and daring of a young woman’s desire to stand up against oppression. Together, their stories honor the sacrifices of countless women who fought in their own ways against tyranny, even if history doesn’t always remember them.

One of the novel’s strongest aspects is its exploration of survival and morality under extreme circumstances. Readers witness the brutal impact of occupation on everyday life: food scarcity, violent reprisals, and the deep wounds inflicted on communities. Hannah crafts an emotionally charged narrative, asking readers to consider the cost of survival and how much one can sacrifice without losing themselves. As Vianne and Isabelle confront impossible choices, Hannah explores the delicate line between self-preservation and betrayal, drawing readers into the intense ethical dilemmas that come with wartime choices.

Characters and Writing Style

The characters of Vianne and Isabelle are both vividly drawn and multi-dimensional, offering relatable motivations, strengths, and flaws. Vianne’s evolution is especially poignant as she transforms from a passive figure to a determined protector, showing a kind of quiet courage that may resonate deeply with readers. Isabelle, on the other hand, embodies the fierce, impassioned drive of youth, though her rash decisions sometimes endanger her and others. The novel’s portrayal of sisterhood and the complex bond between these women adds another emotional layer, showing how they challenge, support, and ultimately inspire each other.

Kristin Hannah’s writing style is immersive and descriptive, making it easy for readers to feel the emotional weight of each scene. She captures the atmosphere of Nazi-occupied France in rich detail, from the cobblestone streets of small villages to the chilling presence of soldiers on every corner. Her prose is direct yet elegant, balancing historical accuracy with a strong narrative drive. Although some readers may find certain moments overly sentimental, Hannah’s prose generally succeeds in connecting readers with the characters’ internal struggles and triumphs.

Historical Accuracy and Impact

Hannah’s research shines throughout *The Nightingale*, as she draws upon the true stories of female Resistance fighters and civilians who suffered under Nazi rule. Her dedication to historical authenticity is evident in her detailed descriptions of wartime France, from the rationing and curfews to the complex dynamics of collaboration and resistance among the French. By focusing on women’s experiences, *The Nightingale* contributes a fresh perspective to the genre of World War II historical fiction, celebrating the unsung heroines who played crucial roles in the Resistance and survival of their communities.

Reception and Criticism

Since its release, *The Nightingale* has received widespread praise, quickly becoming a bestseller and sparking interest in Hannah’s broader body of work. It won the Goodreads Choice Award for Historical Fiction in 2015 and has been praised by readers and critics alike for its emotional depth and historical richness. The novel’s resonance has even led to a planned film adaptation, reflecting its impact and popularity.

Despite the overwhelming positive reception, some readers have pointed out minor criticisms. The book’s pacing slows in places, particularly in Vianne’s chapters, and a few plot twists feel somewhat predictable. Additionally, some readers may find the occasional romantic subplot to be unnecessary or out of place within the larger narrative. However, these critiques are minor compared to the novel’s overall impact and power.

Other Works by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah has an extensive bibliography that covers a wide range of themes, often centered on strong female protagonists facing extraordinary challenges. Notable works include *Firefly Lane*, which delves into friendship and personal growth over decades; *The Great Alone*, a gripping story set in the wilderness of Alaska; and *Winter Garden*, which similarly explores family secrets and historical trauma. Like *The Nightingale, these novels emphasize emotional resilience and the strength of familial bonds.

 Final Rating and Recommendation

Overall, *The Nightingale* is a beautifully written, deeply moving tribute to the courage and sacrifices of women during one of history’s darkest times. Its well-developed characters, historical authenticity, and compelling narrative make it a standout in the genre of historical fiction. While the story can be emotionally heavy and even heart-wrenching, it is also a testament to hope and the strength of the human spirit.

For anyone interested in historical fiction, stories of female empowerment, or narratives that highlight untold perspectives of World War II, *The Nightingale* is a must-read. I would rate this novel a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars for its emotional depth, well-crafted characters, and powerful storytelling. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kristin Hannah or new to her work, *The Nightingale* is likely to stay with you long after the last page is turned.

Final! College Baseball Top 25 2024

Tom Knuppel Other

The 15 week season is complete. It is now time for the postseason to get underway.  In a day or two the brackets will be filled and the tourneys shall begin. Here is Tom’s Top 25 after the completion of the 2024 season.

 

1- Tennessee 46-10

2. Texas A&M 44-11

3. Kentucky 39-12

4. Clemson 40-13

5. Arkansas- 43-13

6. Oregon State 41-13

7. UNC       41-12

8. Florida State 39-13

0. Oklahoma 34-18

10. East Carolina    40-13

11. Georgia 39-14

12. UCSB      39-12

13. UC Irvine   41-11

14. Virginia     43-11

15. Miss State    36-19

16. NC State   32-19

17. Oklahoma State   36-16

18. Duke      39-18

19. Arizona    33-20

20. Wake Forest   36-19

21 Indiana State   36-16

22. Louisiana    40-16

23. Texas   38-20

24. Oregon    37-16

25. Southern Miss    37-18

 

 

Very soon I will post information on the postseason. Thanks for reading!

 

-Tom

 

Tom’s Top 25 College Softball week 11

Tom Knuppel Other

This is my second week of following along with the college softball teams and the Top 25. Here is my lists after Week 11 of the schedule.

My Top 25 College Baseball

 

Collegiate Softball

#1- Texas- The Longhorns are 35-6 for the season and face Iowa State for a series next.

#2- Oklahoma 42-4 will travel to Orlando and face UCF.

#3- Stanford 34-7  face a Top ten team in Washington.

#4- Duke 32-4 The Blue Devils will face NC State

#5- Tennessee 32-7  The Vols face a Top 25 teams in Alabama

#6- Washington 28-7 They take on 33 Stanford in a huge three game series.

#7- Oklahoma State 35-8 will be at home facing Kansas.

#8- LSU 36-8 Gets a challenge by playing Arkansas.

#9- Florida 35-9 The Gators play another ranked squad in Georgia.

#10- UCLA 29-9 has a regional match-up facing Arizona.

#11- Texas A&M 33-9 faces SamHouston.

#12- Missouri 33-11 and Mississippi State have a three game series this weekend.

#13- Arkansas 30-11 The Razorback

#14- Georgia 33-13

#15- Virginia Tech 31-9=1

#16- Florida State 31-10

#17- Miss State 29-12

#18- alabama-30-10

#19- Arizona 28-13-1

#20- Louisiana 29-14

#21- Northwestern 26-8

#22- Clemson 28-14

#23- Boston University  35-11

#24- Kentucky 36-15

#25- Oregon 26-15

 

another top  game this week include a Pac-12 contest between Arizona and UCLA. Also,here is last weeks Top 20 in college softball.

Please send me a note if you read or enjoy this segment on women’s softball.

College Softball 2024 Top 20

Tom Knuppel Other

I have been delving into the Collegiate baseball scene for quite some time and have made the decision to give the women’s softball some of my time. As I am not an expert, I am a strong follower of the game. Let’s jump in with the inaugural edition of College Softball Top 20. (4-15-24)

 

 

#1- Texas– The Longhorns out of the Big 12 conference are 35-6 and look to be the best team in college softball right now. They are second in NCAA softball batting average at .362. They are 19-2 at home in Easton Stadium. The team is led in batting by Ashton Maloney  and hitting .453 in 39 games played. the home run leader is  Reese Atwood with 13 bombs on the year. Teagan Kavan leads the Lady Longhorns in pitching with a 12-2 record along with a 1.81 ERA. Next up on the schedule is Kansas.

#2- Oklahoma- The Sooners are out of the Big 12 Conference and are 38- 4 on the season. They have two hurlers that are doing outstanding work as Karlie Keeney sports a 1.03 ERA and Kiersten Deal is at 1.02. The Sooners lost a game to BYU this past weekend and it was the only time they the Sooners had been outhit for the season.

#3- Stanford – The Cardinals are in the Pac-12 conference and are currently 34-7. They are lead in the pitching department by Nijaare Candady with a 0.48 ERA and Emily Jones is the top hitter with a .378 batting average. Ava Gall leads the Lady Cardinals in home runs and RBI’s. The next contest is a doubleheader  with UC Davis on the road.

#4- Duke – The Blue Devils are 37- 4 on the season and 20-1 at home.   They take on UNC Greensboro for a doubleheader on Wednesday and then face a Top 20 team in Virginia, all at Duke Softball Stadium. The  Blue Devils are led by senior pitcher/outfielder Claire Davidson in batting with a .458 average. The pitching finds Jala Wright at 13-1 and a 1.27 ERA.

#5 – LSU– The Tigers are 33-8 on the year and the top team in the SEC. Pitcher Kelley Lynch pitched a no-hitter on Friday while also fanning eight batters in the Auburn line-up. They are 24-4 at home in Tiger Park.  They face #11 Arkansas at home for a three game series this next weekend.

 

#6 – Georgia  -Another team from the SEC, they are 33-10 on the year. Their defense is stable as they have the 14th fewest errors on the season  with 25. Jayda Kearney leads the offense in several categories. She lead in batting average at .366 and 15 home runs with 36 RBI’s. Pitcher Madison Kerpics is the winningest pitcher on the roster at 11-2 with a  2.72 earned run average. They face Missouri at Turner Softball Field for a three game weekend series.

#7 – Alabama – At 30-9, they are the 3rd SEC in the Top 20. They face Arkansas in a three game series this weekend. Abby Duchscherer leads the Crimson Tide with 29 RBI’s and Lauren Johnson is the team leader in batting average at .329.

#8 – Missouri – The Tigers are another SEC team and are 33-11 overall this season but only 7-8 in the conference. Jenna Laird has the top batting average at ,371 with Alex Honnold right behind her at .355. She is also the home run and RBI leader for the Tigers. Cierra Harrison has a 2.02 ERA and a 12-2 record. She also has garnered 73 strikeouts. They play SIUE midweek and then travel to play the Georgia Bulldogs for three.

#9 – Tennessee– The Vols are now currently 32-7 overall. McKenna Gibson is batting .367 with 7 homers and 36 RBI’s. Kiki Milley is at ,353 on the year. Payton Gottshall is 15-3  as a starter with a  1.19 ERA along with Karlyn Pickens at 15-3 and a 1.19 ERA.

#10 – Texas A&M –  They are 32-9. Head Coach Trisha Ford puts a formidable nine on the field and the Aggies are led by Jazmine Hill batting .389 and  24 runs batted in. Trinity Cannon leads the team with 10 home runs. Emily Kennedy has a 1.58 ERA and a 15-7 record. The Aggies face Ole Miss at home on Davis Diamond.

#11 – Arkansas – The Razorbacks are currently 30-11 on the season. They are in the SEC  in the middle of the pack. They will face Alabama for three games at Bogie Park this weekend.

#12- Oklahoma State – The Cowgirls record is at 35-8 and they are in the Big 12 conference. The pitching staff is anchored by Lexi Kilfoyl with her 0.87 ERA. They take on Texas Tech for three at Cowgirl Stadium this coming weekend.

#13- Florida State –Their record sits at 31-10, This past weekend, they 10 run ruled the Notre Dame Irish for a win. They will face Boston College for three on the road this weekend. The Lady Seminoles have the 9th best team batting average at .342

#14- Auburn- This team has a 23-23 record and will face Kentucky at Jane B Moore Field for three game series. The Tigers are led in batting average by Anna Wohlers at ,333. Amelia Lech leads in RBI’s for the team with 30.

#15 – Louisiana- Out of the Sun Belt conference, the Ragin’ Cajun team are 29-14. They take on LSU in a midweek contest and then play Southern Miss for a series this coming weekend. Mihyla Davis is batting .409 to lead the team in average and Alexa Langeliers has 30 runs batted in.

#16 – UCLA – The Bruins are 24-9 on the year and will face #3 Stanford for a series this weekend. Maya Brady is leading the team with a  .398 batting average. She also has ten home runs and 38 runs batted in. The pitching staff is anchored by Kaitlyn Terry with a 11-0 record in 12 games along with 7 complete games.

#17– Mississippi State – The Bulldogs are 29-12 on the year and are scheduled to face Southern Miss this weekend. Madisyn Kennedy leads the Bulldogs with a .380 batting average, home runs and RBI’s. Aspen Wesley has 11 wins and 2 saves as their leading hurler.

#18 – Florida – The Gators are 35-9 and from the SEC. They will host the South Carolina team for a three game series this weekend.

#19– Texas State -the Thundering Herd from the Sunbelt conference are 33-12. They just lost 2 of 3 from #14 Louisiana and now travel to ULM to take them on for three games.

#20 – Clemson -The Tigers are 28-24 and from the ACC. McKenzie Clark is batting .371 with 9 homers and 32 runs batted in. The team ERA is 2.26. Next up for Clemson is Notre Dame for three games on the road.

 

 

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

  • Duke leads the nation with a 1.25 ERA and Tennessee is 2nd at 1,26
  • Virginia Tech is 12-0 at home
  • Jessica Clements from Cal Poly is leading the nation with a .510 batting average
  • Alex Coleman from UNC is 2nd in batting average at .504
  • Bradley University Sydney Kennedy leads the nation with 14 complete games

 

College Men’s Volleyball- Upcoming National Tourney

Tom Knuppel Other

The NCAA Men’s Volleyball tournament is coming soon. The Selection Show is on Sunday, April 21 at 1pm ET and can only be viewed on NCAA.com.  The actual tournament is being held in Long Beach, California from April 30-May 4th.

In 2023, the UCLA Bruins defeated Hawai’i to win the program’s 20th national title.ed  The win secures as head coach at UC Irvine.John Speraw his fourth national title as a head coach but his first national title at UCLA. He previously won

With the win, the Bruins have 121 NCAA National Championships, second only to Stanford.

Let’s take a quick look at the Top Ten in Men’s Volleyball for 2024.

#1- UCLA again is again at the top spot with a  22-4 overall record. They program averages between 3000 and 4000 fans per home contest. Ethan Champlin leads the Bruins with 209 kills , followed by 200 from Cooper Robinson.

#2-Grand Canyon has a 22-4 record on the season. Camden Gianni has 290 kills and Jackson Hickman follows with 274. These two are also team leaders in blocks. The head Coach is Matt Werle. He was selected to become an assistant coach for this year’s U.S. Men’s Junior National Training Team.

#3- Long Beach State have a 22-3 record and get the luxury of playing the national tourney at home.

#4- UC Irvine- The Anteaters are 18-9 on the year. hey are coached by Michael Brinkley.The libero was member of UCI’s national championship teams in 2012 and 2013, earning NCAA All-Tournament honors in 2013.

#5- Penn State enters with a 21-6 record and the highest seed est of the Mississippi River.The Nittany Lions are undefeated at home.  John Kerr leads the squad with 356 kills on the season.

#6- Ohio State – is 20-8 on the year. They have lost to many very good teams such as Penn State, Loyola Chicago, Penn State and Stanford.

#7- BYU- with a 15-8 record they have had the least contests. Earlier in the season at home they split with UCLA. They have good wins over a Top team in Pepperdine. Luke Benson is leader with 308 points.

#8- Hawaii – The Rainbows have a 22-6 record and may have had the toughest schedule by playing the West Coast teams continually. They were second in the national tourney last year.

#9- Pepperdine – is 17-9 on the year and may be the first team left out on selection Sunday and only eight advance.

#10 Stanford- at 19-9 the same can be said for the Cardinals not getting proper due and being left out.

Next; Chicago Loyola, Ball State, George Mason

 

Tom Knuppel Other
Marmaduke's burial

This was one of my genealogy finds in the digging of the past two years.

Sir Marmaduke Constable-My 15th Great Grandfather ( on my mothers side)

One of my  descendants  fought the Battle of Bosworth were set to meet in Leicester as part of the commemoration of Richard III’s reinterment. This is now, however, surely overshadowed by the fact that one of the ancestors who fought at Bosworth was a man called Sir Marmaduke Constable, about whom you need to know three things: firstly, his name was Sir Marmaduke Constable; secondly, he had a long and interesting career in a turbulent period of English history; thirdly, he was eventually brought to mortal conclusion by a frog.

Backgroundy Stuff

First of all, let’s take a moment to reflect on what a magnificent name is Marmaduke Constable! It’s the kind of name that simply demands to have the word “Sir” placed in front of it, and for the bearer of that name to also bear a suit of armour. I would like to think that, had a king encountered an ordinary man with no noble heritage, he would nevertheless have knighted him the instant that he learned the man’s name was Marmaduke Constable simply because “Sir Marmaduke Constable” just sounds right!

 

In fact, Sir Marmaduke did not require such an idiosyncratic response from a monarch tickled by his name. The Constable family had Norman origins and were based in Flamborough (Yorkshire), notable in their region but not major players on the national scene. The first Constable of any note was Sir Robert Constable, allied with Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, in the reign of Edward II, who was pardoned for his role in the death of Edward’s favourite, Piers Gaveston. For the next few generations, the Constables alternated names between Robert and Marmaduke while at the same time growing in prominence (both in terms of politics and land).

The father of our Marmaduke was the fourth Sir Robert Constable (1423-88). He married Agnes Wentworth and their eldest son, Marmaduke, was born in c. 1456/57. Sir Robert was in his prime during the Wars of the Roses and the Constables served with the Lancastrians (specifically the Percy family of Northumberland). Despite the victory of Edward IV (a Yorkist) in 1461, Sir Robert seems to have made the transition to the new regime without too much difficulty.

Marmaduke joined his father in the service of Henry Percy, whose father (the 3rd Earl of Northumberland) had been killed fighting Edward IV at Towton. Percy lost his earldom and was imprisoned but was released in 1469 and won Edward’s support in having his earldom restored (thus becoming the 4th Earl). The Percy family played a vital role in the north of England, so despite the recent Lancastrian allegiance, Percy was a good sponsor for the Constables.

Marmaduke and Robert (almost certainly in Percy’s service) accompanied Edward IV on his aborted campaign into France in 1475. While this would have been a rather disappointing campaign for a young soldier hoping to make his name, more opportunities were soon to come in border campaigns against Scotland in the early 1480s. Marmaduke seems to have served with some distinction as he was knighted by Percy at Berwick in 1481 (or maybe, as previously discussed, Percy just couldn’t resist the name!)

Sir Marmaduke was moving up in the world and following the death of Edward IV (and the disappearance of his son, Edward V, of “The Princes in the Tower” fame) in 1483, he entered the service of Richard III. Following the Buckingham Rebellion (a failed uprising by Richard’s former ally Henry Stafford, 2nd Duke of Buckingham), Marmaduke was granted all the major Duchy of Lancaster offices in the north midlands, including his new base at Tutbury Castle where he was made constable and thus, presumably, becoming Constable Sir Marmaduke Constable, well on his way to being the 15th century equivalent of Major Major Major Major.

Despite his prominent position, it is not clear whether Sir Marmaduke was particularly close to Richard III. His predecessor as constable at Tutbury was William Hastings, the closest ally of Edward IV who had enjoyed much independence in his position (until being executed by Richard in 1483). In contrast, Sir Marmaduke was forbidden to retain the local gentry and was under much stricter royal control. As such, when Richard fought Henry Tudor (later Henry VII) at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, it is possible that Sir Marmaduke (although present) did not fight for Richard but, like Percy, was notable by his abstention. That he received a pardon and continued to enjoy high office under Henry VII suggests that he had given little cause to be suspected of having a strong allegiance to the previous regime.

Under Henry VII, Sir Marmaduke continued to rise in prominence. He succeeded his father in 1488 and was named Sheriff of Yorkshire. This proved to be an important position as he was charged with quelling the unrest of 1489 in which a rebellion against taxation led to Percy being killed by rioters. With his erstwhile sponsor now dead, Marmaduke seems to have fallen in with Thomas Howard – an appropriate replacement as, like Percy, Howard’s father (the 1st Duke of Norfolk) had been killed (and his title removed) in the crucial battle of the generation (in this case, fighting for Richard III at Bosworth). Like Percy, Howard had been imprisoned but was now seeking to prove his loyalty and win back his title. This had begun with quelling the Yorkshire Rebellion of 1489, where he and Marmaduke would have come into close contact, and Howard evidently thought highly of Marmaduke, nominating him (unsuccessfully, unfortunately) as a Knight of the Order of the Garter in 1509.

For both Sir Marmaduke and Howard, the chance for glory came in 1513 during the reign of Henry VIII. Henry was in France when James IV of Scotland (honouring the Auld Alliance with France) invaded England with 30,000 men. Howard led the English army at the Battle of Flodden and won a decisive victory against the Scots, with James IV himself being killed (the last British monarch to die in battle). As a result of this, Howard’s dukedom was restored and he became the 2nd Duke of Norfolk in 1514. Also to enjoy praise was Sir Marmaduke, who had an important role in the battle commanding the left wing of the English army. In recognition of this, Henry VIII wrote him a letter of thanks, from which we are told that Sir Marmaduke was apparently a short man because Henry VIII’s letter states that he is “called the little”, thus giving us Little Sir Marmaduke Constable!

The Ultimate Case of a Frog in Your Throat

By this point, Sir Marmaduke Constable has lived through the reigns of six kings, of whom four were (at least temporarily) usurped, and been present at two of the most significant battles of the age. He had been a Lancastrian who found favour with Edward IV and then a Ricardian who found favour with Henry VII – despite being sponsored by successive young nobles whose fathers had been killed by the incoming monarch and their titles removed. Nothing, it would seem, could stop Sir Marmaduke Constable. However, on 20 November 1518, Sir Marmaduke was finally laid low by an enemy too powerful even for him – a frog.

Apparently, Sir Marmaduke Constable, a hardened veteran at c. 60 years old, was sat in his garden overlooking the sea when he picked up a glass of water and drank from it. Unbeknownst to Sir Marmaduke, the glass of water contained a frog, which he “inadvertently swallowed”. According to legend, the frog ate away at his heart until he (Sir Marmaduke) eventually died. If he did swallow a frog, I suspect a more likely cause of death would have been Sir Marmaduke choking on said frog but either way, the swallowing of the frog ultimately proved one battle too many! Sadly, the fate of the frog has not been recorded by history.

Of course, this incident raises some inevitable questions. Were Sir Marmaduke to have enjoyed the opportunity of a post-mortem interview, he would no doubt have asked why on earth there was a frog in his glass of water. On the other hand, given a similar opportunity, the frog would no doubt have asked why on earth Sir Marmaduke failed to notice that there was a frog in his water. Given the amphibious nature of the frog, its motivation for taking refuge in water does not really require further explanation. As for Sir Marmaduke, perhaps it was a dark glass, dirty water, or he simply did not think to check before taking a swig that a (presumably small) frog was inside.

Legacy and Descendants

One of the reasons that Sir Marmaduke Constable’s career is known to history is that he tell us about it! He is buried in St Oswald’s Church in Flamborough, which features the Constable Tomb. Of particular note is a brass plaque above the tomb, featuring a poem about his impressive career (though not all entirely accurate – it claims he was 70 at Flodden).

Interestingly, the tomb itself features a stone carving said to be depicting Marmaduke’s heart, which features a representation of the frog that proved his undoing! What Marmaduke would have thought of this is hard to tell (unsurprisingly he does not seem to have foreseen the requirement to predict his thoughts on being dispatched by a small amphibian) but apparently he would not have wanted too much of a fuss, writing in his will a year earlier that he should be buried as soon as possible, “without calling of friends or any other solemnity”.

Impressively, Sir Marmaduke sired six children by his second wife, Joyce Stafford (whose father was killed in 1450 by Jack Cade of “Cade’s Rebellion” fame), who enjoyed varying fortunes. His eldest son (Robert) was knighted by Henry VII for his role at the Battle of Blackheath in 1497 and later fought at Flodden, but was executed by Henry VIII in 1537 as one of the leaders of the Pilgrimage of Grace. His second and third sons (Marmaduke and William) were both knighted at Flodden, the younger Marmaduke remaining loyal to Henry VIII and accompanying him to the Field of Cloth of Gold. His grandson was Henry Constable, an Elizabethan poet whose 1592 work Diana was an early example of a sonnet sequence. As part of the Earl of Essex’s close circle, he was a minor favourite of Elizabeth I but his conversion to Catholicism and attempts to influence James I towards greater toleration led to his imprisonment and later exile. Another descendant was Sir William Constable (1590-1655) who became one of the regicides, signing the death warrant for Charles I!

An impressive family, then, but clearly you can’t top a man who is, let’s not forget, called Sir Marmaduke Constable, AND who fought (or watched) at Bosworth and Flodden AND who died by accidentally swallowing a frog. However, is this a warning from history – could the frogs strike again? I’m not aware of whether accidentally swallowing frogs was a common method of misfortune in Tudor England but it is apparently not a hazard which should concern us today. An FOI request to the Office for National Statistics asked how many people in the UK (if any) have been killed by frogs. The ONS response (the official response rather than the initial “Why on earth has somebody just asked that?!”) was that from 2001 to 2011, no one in England and Wales had been killed by a frog but they could not comment on frog-related deaths prior to 2001: “We do not know whether anyone has ever died from this particular cause in England and Wales as we do not hold that level of detail for earlier mortality data.”

 

Whitaker Family Brood

Tom Knuppel Other

Whitaker Family Brood

 

The surname Whiteaker belongs to the large category of Anglo-Saxon habitation names, which are derived from pre-existing names for towns, villages, parishes, or farmsteads. The surname Whiteaker was first found in Warwickshire where the first record of the name was Johias Whitacre (1042-1066), who died while fighting at the Battle of Hastings on the side of King Harold. Despite the fact he was on the losing side of the battle, his family were permitted to keep their estates there. The place names Whitacre, Over Whitacre and Nether Whitacre were listed in the Domesday Book as Witacre and literally meant “white cultivated land.” One of the earliest rolls was the Hundredorum Rolls of 1273. Those rolls listed: Alan Witacur in Oxfordshire; and Richard de Whitacre in Northamptonshire. Years later, the Yorkshire Poll Tax Rolls of 1379 listed: Henricus Wyteacre; Willelmus de Wetaker; and Rogerus Whitteacres. “The Whittakers or Whitakers are numerous in Lancashire. From the 14th to the 16th century a gentle family of this name lived at High Whitaker or Whitacre in the vills of Simonstone and Padiham, in the parish of Whalley: the Whitakers of Holme and those of Henthorn branched off in the 15th century and those of Healy about 1620.

Here we go. The early entries have little or no information. the words in parentheses (25GGF) designates what relationship they are to Linda (Meeker) Knuppel.

Whitaker Family Early

(25GGF) Johias Whitaker (1042 – 1066)

(24GGF). Edwinus Whitaker (1060 – 1087)

(23GGF)  Sir Simon Whitaker (1080 – 1135) Knighted in 1100

(22GGF) Alanus Whitaker (1133 -1227)

(21GGF) Sir Jordan Whitaker (1200 – 1275) Knighted; married Phillipa Astleymil

(20GGF) Sir John Whitaker (1240-1331) Knighted in 1262; MAGNA CARTA confirmer

(19GGF) Sir John Whitaker (1275 -1330) married in 1316 to Amica Marmion

(18GGF) Sir Richard Whitaker (1300 -1375) Knighted by Edward III in 1327;  married Joan Culi

Notes on Sir Richard- Sir Richard de Whitacre (circa 1300-1375) was the Lord of the Manors of Nether Whitacre, Over Whitacre, Elmdon, and Freasley. He was the son of Sir John de Whitacre and Amica de Marmion and grandson of Sir John de Whitacre, a confirmer of the Magna Carta. His principal seat was at Whitacre Hall, a Medieval fortified manor house in Nether Whitacre.His family, being of Anglo-Saxon descent, were of the very few who were allowed to keep their lands after the Norman Conquest. In fact, his ancestor Johias Whitacre (1042-1066) died while fighting at the Battle of Hastings on the side of King Harold. Nevertheless, this family was allowed to keep their lands in Warwickshire and continued to rise to prominence throughout the Medieval period.Sir Richard was knighted by King Edward III in 1327. He fought in the King’s personal retinue during the English victories at Calais and Crecy during the Hundred Years’ War. For this, it is believed that he received lands in Padiham, Lancashire, where his descendants would eventually move to, settling at The Holme. He was a vassal of the Baron Tamworth, then in the Marmion family of which his mother was a part, who were lords of Tamworth Castle where Sir Richard is known to have fulfilled many of his Knight-services. It is also likely that he at times served the Earl of Warwick, although no records of this are in existence.Sir Richard is documented as having a few legal issues. In one case, after banding together with a group of about six relatives, he assaulted a rival family member from a nearby parish and caused him physical harm. When the lawyer who would be representing the prosecution traveled through Nether Whitacre, he was imprisoned, supposedly at Whitacre Hall, until after the trial was over. In another case, Sir Richard sued, successfully, a church for lands he felt he was entitled to. After marrying Joan Culi, he produced a few heirs, one of which, Sir Simon de Whitacre, would succeed him. He is thought to have died around 1375. It is not known where his final resting place is; however, the local church of St. Giles is the most likely place.

 

(17GGF) Sir Richard Whitaker (1380–1434) born and died at Symonston Hall, Lancashire, England.

(16GGF) Thomas Henry Whitaker (1405-1448) born and died at Symonstone Hall, Clivinger Burnley, Lancashire, England. He married Lady Elizabeth of Burnley in 1430. They had one son, Robert, born in 1440.

(15GGF) Robert Whitaker was born in 1440 in Lancashire, England and died abt 1531 in Yorkshire, England. He married Mary Greenwood (1440-1531) in 1458 and they had one child, Thomas Cromwell Whitaker, born in 1458. 

(14GGF) Thomas Cromwell Whitaker was born 1458 Simonstone Hall, Lancashire, England and died in 1529 at Simonstone Hall, Lancashire, England. He married Joanna Pritchard in 1480 and they had 13 children. He then married Mary Greenwood and they had one son in 1523. 

(13GGF) Richard Thomas Whitaker was born in 1480 in Burnley England and died in 1540. He married Margaret N. Wellascotts (1480-1545) in 1503 and they had four children: Thomas (1504-1598) ,Sir Henry (1506-1599). Margaret (1525-1567) and Sir Thomas Laurence lll (1528-1582).

(12GGF) When Thomas Whitaker was born on September 22, 1504, in Holme, Lancashire, England, his father, Richard, was 24 and his mother, Margaret, was 24. He married Elizabeth Nowell and they had eight children together: Richard Whitaker 1545–1597 Robert Whitaker Of Holme 1545–1581 William Whitaker 1548–1595   William A. “Rev Doctor Divinity” (Whittekers) (1548-1595) Frances Whitaker 1594–1687 Joseph Whitaker –1726 Willm. Whitaker –1738 Thos Dobson –1799

(11GGF) William A. “Rev Doctor Divinity” Whitaker was born in December 1548 in Lancashire, Lancashire, England. He married Susan Culverwell and they had 15 children together. He then married Lady Joane Paronite Fenner and they had one son together. He died on December 4, 1595, in Whalley, Lancashire, England, at the age of 47.

He was a prominent Protestant Calvinistic Anglican churchman, academic, and theologian. He was Master of St. John’s College, Cambridge, and a leading divine in the university in the latter half of the sixteenth century. His uncle was Alexander Nowell, the Dean of St. Paul’s Cathedral and catechist. He wrote over 20 theology books. 

 

 

Whitaker Family Late 1500’s

(10GGF) William Whitaker was born in 1582 in Holme, Lancashire, England. He had two sons and two daughters with Katherine Deane. He then married Mary Liversidge and they had five children together: Robert, Maria, Isabell, Jeremiah and Jane.

He died in 1638 in Holme, Huntingdonshire, England, at the age of 56.

(9GGF) Jeremiah Whitaker was born in 1599 in Wakefield, England and died in 1654 in London. He married Chephizibah Peachy in 1629 and they had five children: William, Mary, Jeremiah, Richard and John.

He was an English Puritan clergyman, and an important member of the Westminster Assembly. After being educated at the grammar school there under the Rev. Philip Jack, he entered Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, as a sizar in 1615, two years before Oliver Cromwell. In 1619 he graduated in arts, and for a time was a schoolmaster at Oakham, Rutland.

In 1630 he was made rector of Stretton, Rutland; and on the ejection of Thomas Paske from the rectory of St Mary Magdalen, Bermondsey, in 1644, Whitaker was chosen in his stead. He was an oriental scholar, and preached, when in London, four times a week. When the Westminster Assembly was convened in June 1643, he was one of the first members elected, and in 1647 was appointed its moderator. In the same year he was chosen by the House of Lords, along with Thomas Goodwin, to examine and superintend the assembly’s publications

Whitaker died on 1 June 1654, and was buried in the chancel of St Mary Magdalen. 

 

Whitaker Family CAME TO AMERICA

 

(8GGF) Richard Whitaker was born in London in 1644 and came to the United States where he died in 1710 in Fairfield, New Jersey. He married Elizabeth Adkins Provoe in 1680 and they had six children. Abigail (1680-1718) Richard (1680-1720) Nathaniel (1681-1753) Peter (1683-) James (1689-1720) Katharine (1694-1718).

(7GGF) Richard Whitaker II (1680-1720) was born in 1680 in Fairfield, New Jersey. He married Abigail Hammond in 1700 in his hometown.They had four children: Nathaniel (1696-1752) Richard (1700-1759) Thomas (1702-1779)  Catherine (1704-) Elizabeth (1704-) James (1708-) Richard Whitaker II died on January 12, 1720, in Fairfield, New Jersey, at the age of 40.

(6GGF) Nathaniel Whitaker was born in 1694 in Fairfield, New Jersey when his father, Richard, was 14 and his mother, Abigail, was 18. He married Mary Ann Abbott Dixon on 18 Nov 1729 in Fairfield, Cumberland, New Jersey, United States. He then married Ruth Buck (1719-1752) on September 13, 1738, in New Jersey. 

He died on December 13, 1752, in his hometown at the age of 58.

(5GGF) Lewis W Whitaker was born in 1734 and married Anna Thompson (1737-1810) in 1753. They had three children: Lydia (1760-1830) Lewis (1764-1830)  Lemuel (1772-1849) Lewis died in 1773 at the age of 39. Anna Thompson was born on April 27, 1737, in Fairfield, New Jersey. She died in 1810 in her hometown at the age of 73.

(4GGF) Lemuel Whitaker was born on June 21, 1772, in Fairfield, New Jersey when his father, Lewis, was 38 and his mother, Anna, was 35. He married Ruth Barker on April 12, 1791, in his hometown. According to the 1810 Ohio Census, his first name was Leminnie. In subsequent Ohio census (1820, 1830,1840), he was listed as Lemuel. In 1805 he married Jannette Buchanan.

Children with Ruth: Harriet (1798-1881) Reuben Barker (1800-1868)

Children with Janette: Fanny A. (1806-1813)  Israel (1808-1880) Samuel P (1810-1886) Ruth J (1812-1880)  James Buchanan (1813-1893) Neri (1816-1890) Sarah (1818-1890) William B (1818-1890)  Lewis (1820-1890) 

 He died on January 13, 1849, in Brush Creek, Ohio, having lived a long life of 76 years.

 

(3GGF) Reuben Barker Whitaker was born in New Jersey on 8 Jan 1800. He married Frances (Fanny) Martin and their children were: David (1823-1850)  Lemuel (1824-1895) John Buchanan (1826-1872) Milton (1828-1863) Annis (1834-1913) Lewis (1838-1890) 

He married Margaret Hannah Smith (1813-1881) in 1853 and their children were: Adelia Mary (1854-1929)  Beth Ann (1858-1941) Ruth A (1858-) Seth (1868-)

He passed away on April 11, 1868 in Jefferson, Coshocton, Ohio, United States.

 

The Move to Illinois

 

(2GGF) John Buchanan Whitaker was born on May 13, 1826, in Muskingum, Ohio. He married Louisa Catherine Cheek. Their children: Henry Edward (1858-1923) Mary Ella Ellen (1861-1936) James Buchanan (1864-1952) William (1864-) Reuben S (1871-)

 He died on June 8, 1872, in Forest City, Illinois, at the age of 46.

(GGF) James Buchanan Whitaker was born July 16, 1864 in Forest City, Illinois. He married Ida May Barnes on January 1, 1893, in Mason, Illinois. Their four children were (John) Floyd (1894-1977) Nelda E (1897-1987) Edith Eugenia (1900-1990) (James) Leslie (1904-1962)

James Buchanan Whitaker and Ida May (Barnes) Whitaker

 

James B died in 1952 in his hometown at the age of 88.

 

(GM) Edith Eugenia (Whitaker) Meeker was born in 1900 and attended school in the Manito/Forest City area. She married Sam Meeker October 6, 1920. She supported her husband in his farming endeavor and was a loving and devoted wife and mother. They had four children.  (Paul, Clyde, Loren, Lyle) . Edith died of natural causes in 1990 and her husband Sam died a few hours later of the same thing (broken heart?).

 

In a Nutshell:

 

Johias Whitacre 1042-1066   (25th great-grandfather of Linda)

Edwinus Whitaker 1060-1087

Simon Whitaker 1080-1135

Alanus Whitaker 1133-1227

Jordan Whitaker 1200-1275

Sir John Whitaker 1240-1278

John Whitaker 1275-1330

Richard Simon Whitaker 1300-1380

Sir Richard Whitaker 1380-1434

Thomas Henry Whitaker 1405-1448

Robert Whitaker 1440-1531

Sir Thomas Cromwell Whitaker 1458-1529

Richard Thomas Whitaker 1480-1540

Thomas Whitaker 1504-1598

William A. “Rev” Whitaker 1548-1595

William Whitaker DR 1582-1638

Jeremiah Whitaker 1599-1654

Richard Whitaker 1644-1710

Richard Whitaker, II 1680-1720

Nathaniel Whitaker 1694-1752

Lewis W Whitaker 1734-1773

Lemuel Whitaker 1772-1849

Reuben Barker Whitaker 1800-1868

John Buchanan Whitaker 1826-1872

James Buchanan Whitaker 1864-1952

Edith Eugenia Whitaker 1900-1990

Paul Burton Meeker 1922-

Linda Lee Meeker 1952-