Divorce News and Records, Allen Co., Indiana

Some of the cases listed were dismissed and others resulted in divorce decrees.

1896

Fort Wayne Daily News

• 3 Jan 1896 The superior and circuit courts last year each granted 65 divorces.
• 4 Jan 1896 This was divorce day in the courts. Three divorces were filed and two families were legally disunited. Catherine Gardella sues Andrew Gardella for divorce and $1000 alimony in the circuit court, alleging cruel treatment.
• 4 Jan 1896 In the same court, Ella Taylor on the same grounds, sued Enoch B. Taylor for divorce.
• 4 Jan 1896 Sarah Jane Steffey made a similar complaint against her husband, Alexander Steffey. This case was carried into the court at once and a divorce was granted immediately on the grounds of cruel treatment. They have been married five years and the husband has frequently beaten and kicked his wife.
• 4 Jan 1896 The suit of James Stockwell vs. Hattie Stockwell for divorce was settled by agreement in the circuit court without a jury. The plaintiff was given a divorce but the defendant was awarded some property and $255 alimony.
• 6 Jan 1896 It has been reported that Mrs. Wm. Taylor of Oakland Street has deserted her husband.
• 8 Jan 1896 Today in the circuit court, Mrs. Lulu Long applied for a divorce from her husband, Franklin Long.
• 13 Jan 1896 Maud Harmeyer has applied for a divorce from John Harmeyer.
• 14 Jan 1896 Today Lulu Woods applied for a divorce from her husband, Milton Brown Woods, to whom she was married last July. The plaintiff claims that her husband cruelly and inhumanly treated her, calling her foul and obscene names. She also alleges that he attempted to strangle and kick her.
• 15 Jan 1896 Delilah Rodenheaver has applied for a divorce from Henry Rodenheaver.
• 15 Jan 1896 Deliah Bishop also wants a separation from William Bishop and $1000 alimony.
• 20 Jan 1896 Charles Dean, a colored man, who was three months ago married to a pretty colored girl at Lima, Ohio, Saturday evening saw her leave the city in the company of Clarence Dep, his wife's former lover, who resides at Lima. Dean got to the station in time to attach his wife's trunk. She however got away with $30 belonging to the household. He says he will apply for a divorce.
• 20 Jan 1896 Lulu Wood was today granted a divorce from Milton Brown Wood.
• 21 Jan 1896 This afternoon Flora G. DeWitt was granted a divorce from Frank DeWitt on grounds of abandonment. They were married in 1885 in Albion and for a time the husband was a butcher at Kendallville.
• 23 Jan 1896 This afternoon in the circuit court Judge O'Rourke granted Ella Taylor a divorce from Enoch Taylor on the grounds of cruel treatment.
• 27 Jan 1896 Divorce proceedings of a peculiar nature were instituted this afternoon. Mary L. Ackley is the plaintiff and her husband, Dellie B. Acklie (sic) is the defendant. The complaint alleges that Ackley gave his wife and daughter money to come to Fort Wayne and visit relatives on Barr Street. This was three weeks ago on Saturday. Ackley remained at the family residence in Hoagland, this county. On the following Sunday, Ackley sold all the family furniture for $16 and skipped out deserting the family.
• 27 Jan 1896 In the superior court today, Judge Dawson granted Lydia Graffe a divorce from Amiel Graffe on the grounds of drunkenness and failure to provide. The plaintiff was also awarded the custody of their child and $300 alimony.
• 28 Jan 1896 Fred Beyerlein is in the meshes of the law, indeed. Sunday night he was arrested on the charge of assault and battery on his father. He was tried, convicted and sent to jail for eleven days. Last night his much abused wife made overtures through her attorney for an absolute divorce from her husband on the grounds of drunkenness, failure to provide and other causes. The case will be introduced in court in a few days.
• 29 Jan 1896 Through her attorney, Maud Yahne began proceedings in the circuit court against her husband, Frank L. Yahne for divorce. The couple was married in December 1887. The plaintiff alleges failure to provide, cruel treatment and says that the defendant has frequently called his wife obscene names.

• 1 Feb 1896 This morning Stella Morton was granted a divorce from Harry Morton on the grounds of failure to provide. She was granted alimony of $5 a month for ten years.
• 4 Feb 1896 This morning in circuit court Maude Yehne was granted a divorce from Frank L. Yehne.
• 4 Feb 1896 Nettie Boesker was granted a divorce from Harry Boesker.
• 4 Feb 1896 Delilah Bishop was divorced from William Bishop last evening in the circuit court.
• 6 Feb 1896 Caroline Siebert in the circuit court today commenced proceedings for divorce against her husband, Otto W. Siebert of W. Main Street. The plaintiff seeks to recover $2000 alimony. Siebert has been in no end of trouble and has been under arrest on several different occasions. NOTE: He was arrested on Feb 4 for assaulting his wife.
• 7 Feb 1896 Clara Crowl sues for a divorce from Lewis Crowl.
• 18 Feb 1896 John Hobrock has entered a suit against Ollie Hobrock for divorce on the charge of abandonment.
• 19 Feb 1896 In the circuit court Judge O'Rourke decreed Clara L. Crowl a divorce from Lewis Crowl and to Mary L. Achley a divorce from Dellie B. Achley.
• 24 Feb 1896 Through her attorney, Mary J. Crance began proceedings in the circuit court against James Crance for divorce. They were married in 1889 and separated in 1890. The wife says her husband threatened to shoot her heart out and even loaded a gun in her presence stating that he would fire.
• 25 Feb 1896 This morning Josephine Rayhouser applied for a divorce from Gedeliah Isiah Zachariah Rayhouser on the grounds of desertion and failure to provide. Mrs. Rayhouser tried to live with her husband as long as his name but failed.
• 27 Feb 1896 Mrs. Julia Courdret yesterday filed an application for divorce and $2500 alimony from John Courdret.
• 29 Feb 1896 Judge Dawson granted Rose Vanderford a decree of divorce from Charles Vanderford and $300 alimony. He also decreed Josephine Rayhouser a divorce from G. I. Z. Rayhouser.
• Feb. 1896 Myra A. Napier vs. Joseph Napier, Common Pleas Court, Case File
  plaintiff's maiden name: Myra Ross

• 3 Mar 1896 This morning John Hobrock was granted a divorce from Ollie Hobrock.
• 3 Mar 1896 Mary B. Beyerlein yesterday asked the court to annul her marriage to Fred Beyerlein.
• 4 Mar 1896 The divorce proceedings instituted by Mrs. Tom Clark against her husband for divorce and alimony were dismissed for want of prosecution.
• 4 Mar 1896 Mary Hale has applied for a divorce from James Hale.
• 11 Mar 1896 This morning John Bird applied for a divorce from his wife, Mary Bird. The divorce was granted and the plaintiff was granted custody of the child.
• 16 Mar 1896 This noon Judge Dawson granted Mary Hale a divorce from James Hale and the custody of the children. Hale will pay $3 per month for four years.
• 16 Mar 1896 Mary Beyerlein vs. Fred Beyerlein, divorce granted in superior court.
• 16 Mar 1896 Mary J. Crance vs. James Crance, divorce granted in circuit court.
• 19 Mar 1896 Margaret Herring has sued for divorce from Isaac Herring.
• 19 Mar 1896 In the circuit court yesterday, Delilah Rodeheaver was granted a divorce from Henry Rodeheaver.
• 24 Mar 1896 This morning Judge O'Rourke granted a decree of divorce to Lulu Long from her husband, Frank Long. The complaint alleged cruel treatment.
• 28 Mar 1896 Yesterday, Judge Ball of the Cook County superior court, granted Mrs. Martha Warner a divorce from Orrin Warner on the charge of desertion and failure to provide. The plaintiff, Mrs. Warner, will be remembered by her many Fort Wayne friends and school mates as Miss Mattie Probasco. She resided in Fort Wayne until her marriage a few years ago. Many of her friends will regret to learn of her unhappy matrimonial alliance.
• 30 Mar 1896 The divorce suit of Clara B. Sturgeon vs. James R. Sturgeon was sent to DeKalb County on a change of venue.

• 4 Apr 1896 Edith Galimore yesterday instituted suit for divorce from Lafayette Galimore.
• 6 Apr 1896 Lavina Hergenreider today made application for a divorce from her husband, Michael Hergenreider who frequently threatened to kill her.
• 11 Apr 1896 Carrie Sheren has commenced proceedings in the superior court for a divorce from John Sheren on the grounds of abandonment.
• 11 Apr 1896 Lavina Harkenrider was today granted a divorce from Michael Harkenrider, who has on two or three occasions attempted to kill her. She was granted custody of the children and he was ordered to pay $7 per month alimony until released from the obligation by the court.
• 14 Apr 1896 John Fisher, a traveling man, with head quarters in this city, has been granted a divorce from his wife who is now in California.
• 20 Apr 1896 Late this afternoon, through her attorneys, Mrs. Malinda A. Bowersock began proceedings in the circuit court to secure a divorce from her husband, Andrew Bowersock, and demanding $18,000 alimony. About a year ago a similar suit was instituted, but reconciliation was brought about by members of the family, and the case was withdrawn. The papers were withdrawn immediately after they were filed, and it is predicted that when the case comes to trial the evidence will be of a sensational nature.
• 20 Apr 1896 This afternoon the Hohenfels divorce suit is on trial before Judge O'Rourke in the circuit court. The suit was originally brought by Mrs. Rachel H. Hohenfels in Philadelphia several months ago, but subsequently the plaintiff moved to Fort Wayne and for the past year has been a resident of Fort Wayne. The case has been on the dockets here for six months. Today, Moses Hohenfels, a wealthy Philadelphian, came to this city to defend the suit. He has asked the judge to make a special finding on the facts in the case, which is equivalent to the filing of a cross-bill. The evidence is of a spicy nature, and begins at Newport, the fashionable eastern summer resort.
• 21 Apr 1896 Edith Miller has been granted a divorce from her husband, Wm. Miller. She was also given $300 alimony and $5 a month to support her child.
• 21 Apr 1896 The Hohenfels divorce case is being argued in the circuit court this afternoon.
• 21 Apr 1896 L. Guy Ramaley has begun suit for divorce from his wife, Mary D. Ramaley.
• 24 Apr 1896 Clyde Mann has applied for a divorce from Anna Mann. The case will be tried in the circuit court.
• 24 Apr 1896 This morning a divorce was granted in the circuit court which will be startling news to the friends of the parties to the court proceedings. About five years ago Mr. William A. Wolford of this city, was appointed master mechanic of the Big Four shops at Wabash, Ind. His position necessitated his removal to Wabash. His wife refused to move to that city and during the last few years the family relations between Mr. Wolford and his wife, who continues to live on South Hanna street in the city, have not been the most happy. The divorce proceedings were brought in the circuit court by Mr. Wolford and a divorce was granted this morning. By the decree of the court Mr. Wolford deeded to his wife the homestead and surrounding lots in this city.
• 29 Apr 1896 Jerome D. Caswell has applied for a divorce from his wife, Ella M. Caswell. The case will be tried in circuit court.

• 6 May 1896 The DeVaux family troubles have finally reached the upper courts. For some time the constables and lower court officials have had a merry time with DeVaux racing after him over plowed fields, dodging bullets from his musket and leaping about to avoid brickbats and other missiles. Through her attorney this morning, Mrs. John DeVaux brought suit in the circuit court against her husband. She swears that for ten years he has been a brutal companion. He assaulted her with a hatchet in August 1895, and so badly used her that she was in bed for two weeks. He has frequently struck her with his fist. He was threatening her life when Dalton Alderman discovered DeVaux last week. Their matrimonial life of twenty years has been anything but pleasant.
• 8 May 1896 Lillie Tilbury, in the circuit court, has sued for a divorce from her husband, Nahum Tilbury.
• 12 May 1896 Acting Judge Alden, yesterday granted a divorce to Mary Fromuth from Herman Fromuth.
• 13 May 1896 Lulu St. Clair has applied for a divorce in the superior court from her husband, George St. Clair. The charge is abandonment.
• 13 May 1896 Last evening Mary D. Brown, a child bride, filed an application for divorce from Frank Brown, who is a barber. January 8th last, they were married when the plaintiff was but 13 years of age. In the complaint she alleges that her husband abandoned her May 8th last and for that reason she asked for a decree of divorce and restoration of her maiden name, Mary D. Perry.
• 14 May 1896 This morning Mrs. Margaret J. Hart applied for a divorce against Henry F. Hart. The charge is abandonment.
• 14 May 1896 Elizabeth Musselman has applied for a divorce from Daniel Musselman.
• 19 May 1896 Merila C. Oliver began divorce proceedings this morning against her husband, Christian B. Oliver. The charge is abandonment and habitual drunkenness.
• 19 May 1896 Mr. Joseph W. Aubrey and wife, Mary Aubrey, are in the courts for the purpose of getting a divorce. Pending the trial, Aubrey yesterday by a writ of habeas corpus from Judge O'Rourke's court, secured his daughter from his wife and placed the child in the custody of Mrs. Lizzie Jacobs.
• 19 May 1896 Mrs. Alice A. Brooks has applied for a divorce from Ernest Brooks.
• 23 May 1896 This was a divorce day in the courts and the matrimony mismatches in Allen County seem to be numerous. This morning in circuit court, Mrs. Mary Ross applied for a divorce from Richard Ross. It is said that the family has had trouble before. The divorce was promptly granted by the court.
• 23 May 1896 The next case on the docket was the Tilbury divorce case. Lillie B. secured a divorce from her husband, Nahum Tilbury.
• 23 May 1896 George F. Warbuton today applied for a divorce from his wife, Mary J. Warbuton.
• 23 May 1896 Another new (divorce) case was that of Leona Double vs. Wm. Double, filed by her attorney.
• 29 May 1896 The divorce mill is grinding once more, in fact, the Allen County mill seldom stops. This morning in superior court Maud Harmeyer was granted a divorce from John Harmeyer on grounds of desertion.
• 29 May 1896 Minnie Hartman applied for a divorce from her husband, George Hartman, in the superior court.

• 1 Jun 1896 This morning Judge O'Rourke granted a divorce to Edith Galliman from Lafayette Galliman. The charge of abandonment was sustained.
• 1 Jun 1896 Mrs. John DeVaux, wife of the erratic St. Joe township farmer, who attempted to kill his wife and Deputy Sheriff Melching, was granted a divorce this noon by Judge O'Rourke. She gets all the personal property.
• 2 Jun 1896 Last winter, Richard Ross of Bloomingdale was divorced from his wife. They courted again and were remarried. Last week this ill-mated couple again appeared in court and Mrs. Ross secured an absolute divorce and decided to have nothing to do with her divorced husband. She was so emphatic in this decision that she refused alimony or any settlement whatever. It appears this morning from a trial that Ross and his ex-wife cannot keep apart. They got together again but Ross was fined $1 and costs for assault and battery.
• 2 Jun 1896 Jeremiah Ragel has applied for a divorce from Birdie Ragel.
• 3 Jun 1896 A few months ago the News received a sensational letter from Cleveland, detailing the death of Nettie, wife of Ira O. Barcus, of Fort Wayne, at a Cleveland boarding house. It was graphic in its details and related the sufferings and sorrow of a deserted wife who had been abandoned by a cruel, heartless husband. The letter painted the death-bed scene in realistic terms, describing how the poor young bride cried mournfully for her husband. The story proved to be a canard, and was utterly devoid of truth. Later it was learned that Mrs. Nettie Barcus, who formerly resided at 168 West DeWald street, was alive and well. This morning there was received another letter from the same source, marked at Cleveland, June 2, as follows: Editor of News: Dear Sirs: Please print the following in your News: Nettie Barcus has applied for a divorce from her husband, Ira O. Barcus, on the grounds of cruelty. Signed, Nettie Barcus. The officers in the Fort Wayne courthouse have believed for some time that Nettie Barcus was dead, and that she died in Cleveland according to the story printed some time ago. This story however, is believed to be a fake. The letter received today indicates that Nettie Barcus is not dead, but is still a resident of Cleveland. June 25, 1895, Ira O. Barcus, through his attorney, began proceedings in the superior court here for a divorce from his wife, Nettie Barcus. In a short time the death of Mrs. Barcus was printed in the Fort Wayne papers. The letter received today and dated in Cleveland yesterday, says that Nettie Barcus has applied for a divorce in Cleveland. When the Allen County court officials in Fort Wayne were asked why the Barcus divorce has been on the docket so long without trial, they said, “Why, Mrs. Barcus is dead.”
• 4 Jun 1896 This afternoon Judge O'Rourke granted a divorce to Amanda Carpenter from Charles Carpenter. They reside in Bloomingdale.
• 6 Jun 1896 Last Wednesday, Alice Coon was granted a divorce in the circuit court from Alonzo Coon on the grounds of neglect and failure to provide. The couple lived at 187 Broadway. This divorce was not considered sensational till this afternoon when Alice Coon was married to Henry Vincent of Benton Harbor, Michigan. He must have been in the city before the divorce was granted.
• 9 Jun 1896 In the circuit court Jerome O. Caswell was granted a divorce from Ella M. Caswell.
• 10 Jun 1896 In superior court, Minnie Hartman was granted a divorce from George Hartman. Minnie has been a character about town for several years.
• 16 Jun 1896 Late this afternoon Mary L. Ross brought suit for $1000 damages against her divorced husband, Richard C. Ross. She claims that he assaulted her in a brutal manner after the divorce was granted.
• 18 Jun 1896 In circuit court Laura O'Harra was granted a divorce from Alonzo O'Harra.
• 20 Jun 1896 This afternoon Dr. L. Guy Ramaley, who is under bonds for performing a criminal operation, appeared in superior court as an applicant for a divorce from his wife, Mary Ramaley, a non-resident.
• 23 Jun 1896 Carrie Sheron was today granted a divorce from John Sheron.
• 23 Jun 1896 Anna Key has been granted a divorce from C. H. Key.

• 3 Jul 1896 This afternoon in the superior court L. Guy Ramaley was granted a divorce from Mary D. Ramaley. The sensational charge is still pending against the doctor in the circuit court. The fair plaintiff and prosecuting witness however, is still missing.
• 11 Jul 1896 Abraham Sowers., Sr., in a family broil, (charges of assault and battery) was started two months ago when the old man began proceedings against his wife for a divorce. The family has been a cyclone of trouble ever since.
• 28 Jul 1896 George Warburton was today granted a divorce from Mary Warburton on the grounds of desertion.
• 30 Jul 1896 Yesterday Ella V. Suttenfield commenced suit for divorce from Bird Suttenfield. The couple lives in this city and were married in 1892. The plaintiff alleges cruelty and failure to provide. They have no children but for two years have given home to a foundling picked up on their doorstep.

• 6 Aug 1896 Lillie B. Hendler has applied for a divorce from her husband, John Hendler, and she asks for alimony.
• 11 Aug 1896 In the superior court yesterday, a divorce was granted to Ella V. Suttonfield from Bird Suttonfield.
• 13 Aug 1896 The circuit court convened in a short special session yesterday during which time Judge O'Rourke granted a divorce to Sylvester L. Gorsline from Maria B. Gorsline.
• 14 Aug 1896 Yesterday Mrs. Minnie E. Underhill began suit in the superior court for a divorce from Elliot S. Underhill. The papers have been withdrawn from the clerk's office. The charges are of a rather sensational nature.
• 17 Aug 1896 Mrs. Anna Underhill has sued Mrs. Carrie Byall for $2500 damages and alienating her husband's affections. Mrs. Underhill has also applied for a divorce from her husband, E. S. Underhill. Mr. & Mrs. Byall are not living together as husband and wife but no divorce has been applied for.
• 17 Aug 1896 This morning in the superior court Mary Henze was granted a divorce from Wm. Henze, Jr.
• 17 Aug 1896 Inez R. Johnson has commenced suit in the circuit court against her husband, Dr. J. E. Johnson, for support. The complaint alleges that Dr. Johnson deserted her in October 1893 and she has supported her two children by dress making and lately since the doctor has failed to pay the $25 monthly for rent and for five months she has been compelled to take in laundry.
• 19 Aug 1896 It is quite evident that the allegations made by Mrs. Inez R. Johnson in her suit for divorce are overdrawn. Dr. Johnson has contributed nearly $1200 to the support of Mrs. Johnson and the children since 1893, besides leaving household furniture worth about as much more.
• 21 Aug 1896 Harry Byers has commenced action in the circuit court for a divorce from his wife, Caroline Byers.
• 26 Aug 1896 Thos morning Salem E. Solhaney, an Arabian peddler, applied for a divorce from his wife, Hetty A. Solhaney. The couple was married in Fort Wayne on April 10 this year and lived together two months. The plainant says that his wife abandoned him in July and eloped to Iowa with another man.
• 27 Aug 1896 In superior court Elizabeth Musselman was granted a divorce from David Musselman. The charge was desertion. The defendant left their Marion Township home some time ago, leaving the wife and daughter unprovided for. The plaintiff was given custody of the child.
• 27 Aug 1896 Lucinda Gillen applies for a decree of separation from Bernard Gillen.
• 28 Aug 1896 Henry Haberkorn has applied for a divorce from his wife, Carolina Haberkorn. The plaintiff is a machinist at the electrical light works and resides on Hoagland Ave. The petition for divorce has been withdrawn.

• 2 Sep 1896 This morning W. L. Judy brought suit against Sarah E. Judy for divorce on grounds of desertion and abandonment. This marriage occurred in September 1892 and the plaintiff was abandoned by Mrs. Judy, September 25, 1893.
• 10 Sep 1896 Through his attorney, Wm. Donges has applied in the circuit court for a divorce from his wife, Amelia Donges.
• 11 Sep 1896 Lucinda Gillen was granted a divorce from Bernhard Gillen and alimony of $5 a month for the support of the child.
• 11 Sep 1896 Mrs. Celina Boitet has filed an application for a divorce from her husband, Francis Boitet, one of the prominent farmers of the county. The plaintiff asks for $3000 alimony.
• 15 Sep 1896 This morning Caroline Siebert was granted a divorce from Otto Siebert in Judge Dawson's court. The couple was married a year ago last January and have had one successive round of displeasure ever since. Three different times the abused wife has applied for a divorce but on two previous occasions the complaints have been withdrawn. The third time proved successful. She was granted $75 alimony.
• 17 Sep 1896 This morning in the circuit court Wm. Judy was granted a divorce from Sarah E. Judy on the charge of abandonment.
• 23 Sep 1896 This morning Judge Dawson granted Sarah Jane Payne a divorce from Wm. R. Payne on the grounds of desertion.
• 23 Sep 1896 Matilda Will has brought proceedings in the circuit court for a divorce from William V. Will.
• 23 Sep 1896 Viola B. Murry has commenced proceedings in the circuit court for a divorce from her husband, Oraemus V. Murry on the charges of desertion, failure to provide and abandonment.
• 23 Sep 1896 Anna Bailey has commenced an action in superior court for a decree of divorce from William Eugene Bailey. The complaint has been withdrawn from the clerk's office.
• 24 Sep 1896 William Kress has filed an application for a divorce from Viola Kress.
• 25 Sep 1896 Dora Schlaudroff was today granted a divorce from George Schlaudroff on the charge of abandonment.
• 25 Sep 1896 James R. Johnson sues for a divorce from Harriet Julia Johnson on the charge of abandonment. The complaint says after the marriage the defendant never intended to live with the plaintiff.
• 25 Sep 1896 Irene Bristol has applied for a divorce from Adonis P. Bristol.
• 30 Sep 1896 Margaret Mathien has been granted a divorce from Joseph Mathien. She is to receive $100 alimony.

• 3 Oct 1896 Mrs. Julia F. Randall has been granted a divorce from Perry A. Randall. The decree was by mutual consent.
• 3 Oct 1896 Viola B. Murry has been granted a divorce from O. S. Murry.
• 7 Oct 1896 Louisa Edsal has filed for a divorce from Frank Edsal and $1000 alimony.
• 7 Oct 1896 Today Esther V. Crane filed a rather sensational petition for a divorce in the circuit court. She alleges that her husband, Delbert P. Crane, deserted her in 1891 and since that time has been a missing quantity in Allen County and also in their home in Marion Township. A part of the family history is revealed which borders on the tragical. The complaint says that Delbert, while at home, was an habitual drunkard, and a man of most violent temper. On the night he disappeared, nearly five years ago, he saturated the bed clothes on which his wife slept, with coal oil. He then set fire to the bed and fled. The fumes of the oil alarmed Mrs. Crane and she escaped. The complaint also alleges that Crane is a bigamist. Mrs. Crane says that the only time she has heard of her missing husband was the announcement made of his marriage at Lima, Ohio to a young girl of that place shortly after he left Fort Wayne. The plaintiff avers that her recreant husband has an interest in a $10,000 estate near Akron, Erie County, New York and she prays for $1000 alimony for the support of her four children. The plaintiff's maiden name was Esther V. Alleger and her parents are most respectable residents of Allen County.
• 8 Oct 1896 There was a spicy divorce case in the circuit court this morning. George W. Countryman was granted a divorce from Mattie E. Countryman on the charge of infidelity. The plaintiff named a man of the name of Knickerbocker, of Michigan, as the correspondent. Mr. Counrtyman swore that the Knickerbocker and the Counrtyman families lived in adjoining houses in Michigan. Mr. Countryman and his wife came to Fort Wayne and later Mr. Knickerbocker followed leaving his wife behind. He was out of work and Countryman took him in out of charity's sake till he could find employment in Fort Wayne. Knickerbocker alienated the affections of Mrs. Countryman and soon the trouble began and today the illicit lovers were exposed in court.
• 8 Oct 1896 Mrs. Minnie Beegan, of Wabash, has been granted a divorce from her husband, Joseph Beegan, formerly of this city.
• 9 Oct 1896 Mrs. Anna Catherine Henry, who is being sued for divorce by John N. Henry today, asked the court for an allowance.
• 9 Oct 1896 Inez R. Johnson vs. her husband, Dr. J. E. Johnson, for support and an allowance. The couple do not live together and no application for a divorce is pending.
• 10 Oct 1896 In superior court Irene Bristol was granted a divorce from Adrais P. Bristol. The defendant was granted the custody of the child.
• 10 Oct 1896 Mrs. Nellie Moellering was granted a divorce from Wm. L. Moellering. The defendant filed an answer in general denial and submitted the case to the court without evidence. The son Harry, is to be left in the custody of the plaintiff but under the care and personal supervision of the defendant as regards education and will receive $15 a month from his father. There was no alimony granted.
• 12 Oct 1896 Ida Carlson has applied for a divorce from Luther Carlson.
• 12 Oct 1896 Minnie Eix has applied for a divorce from August Eix.
• 13 Oct 1896 Louisa Bradtmiller has applied for a divorce from Charles Bradtmiller.
• 17 Oct 1896 Sarah Mayer has applied in the circuit court for a divorce from David Mayer. The charges are cruel treatment and incompatibility of temper.
• 17 Oct 1896 Ona Ola Gordon was yesterday granted a divorce from Joseph George Gordon.
• 20 Oct 1896 Charles E. Drake has commenced suit in the circuit court for a divorce from Sarah M. Drake.
• 22 Oct 1896 Yesterday in the Toledo courts, Mrs. Effie Grund-Keel, formerly of Fort Wayne, was granted a divorce from Dr. George A. Keel of Fort Wayne. Mrs. Keel was granted alimony and custody of her son.
• 23 Oct 1896 Louis Banet, ex-saloon keeper, sued today for divorce. Mrs. Belle Banet has brought suit in the circuit court against her husband, Louis Banet, for divorce. They were married in 1885 and separated October 17, 1896. During that time the complaint alleges that the defendant has been a hard drinker and has frequently assaulted the plaintiff in a most brutal manner. She alleges that one arm is permanently disabled on account of his abusive treatment.
• 24 Oct 1896 Last evening trouble began to brew in the McClaren family. Jesse McClaren was arrested at his saloon for assault and battery on his sister-in-law, Miss Strack. This set the domestic circle in a whirl. Later Mrs. Elizabeth McClaren, through her attorney, began divorce proceedings against her husband, Jesse, on the grounds of cruelty. This exasperated Jesse and he decided to make the lives of several residents of the Richardville Indian reserve anything but happy. He says that he learned John Holzworth had taken out a license to marry his sister-in-law, Miss Mary F. Strack, last May. They secured the license, he alleges, and lived together as husband and wife without the ceremony of marriage. He filed affidavits against them both this morning, charging them with fornication. Mary and John, when they learned of this action, rushed to the clerk's office, secured a new marriage license and in a few minutes were married in Justice Bullerman's court. The family circle is still disturbed, however, and a war dance is imminent. Mrs. McClaren and Mrs. Strack-Holzworth are descendants of the Indian chief, Godfrey, and their husbands are white men.

• 6 Nov 1896 Emma Miller has applied for a divorce from Fred Miller.
• 7 Nov 1896 In the circuit court today, Minnie Eix was granted a divorce from August Eix on the charge of failure to provide.
• 7 Nov 1896 Joseph Lothamer has applied for a divorce from Elizabeth Lothamer.
• 7 Nov 1896 This morning the sensational suit of Mrs. Anna Underhill vs. Mrs. Carrie Byall for alienating her husband's affections was quietly settled in the courts.
• 9 Nov 1896 Judge O'Rourke has granted Anna Underhill a divorce from Elliott Underhill.
• 12 Nov 1896 Two spicy divorce cases were filed today. Lucinda Buford has applied in the superior court for a divorce from Edward Buford. The couple was married in 1868 and lived together till September 17 of this year. The plaintiff accuses the defendant of infidelity, desertion, cruelty and partial abandonment. Five children have been born. Two are minors. Mrs. Buford asks for $3000 alimony and $250 a year for the support of one of the minor children and $400 per annum for the support of the other. The defendant now resides in Gas City.
• 12 Nov 1896 Mary Griner has applied in the circuit court for a divorce from Christian Griner, $1000 alimony, the custody of their only child and other relief. The complaint alleges cruelty and inhuman treatment and alleges that the plaintiff has been driven from her home.
• 20 Nov 1896 The Van Wert Bulletin declares that Mrs. Mary Ella Markey was granted a divorce from George A. Markey as prayed for on the grounds of extreme cruelty. Mrs. Markey is given custody of their child, $500 alimony and an allowance of $20 a month. Both Mr. and Mrs. Markey reside in Fort Wayne.
• 25 Nov 1896 This afternoon Anna Bailey was granted a divorce from Wm. E. Bailey on the grounds of abandonment and cruelty.
• 28 Nov 1896 This morning Nannie B. Dodge was granted a divorce from Wm. A. Dodge in the circuit court. The complaint alleged that she was abandoned in Fort Wayne six months ago by her husband, who moved to Montpelier, Indiana, deserting her. He has since refused to live with her or contribute to her support.
• 28 Nov 1896 This morning Cora Callaghan, of Monroeville, has applied for a divorce from Morris Callaghan in the superior court. The complaint alleges brutality and cruel treatment.
• 28 Nov 1896 Joseph Lothain has been granted a divorce from Elizabeth Lothain. (Lothamer?)
• 30 Nov 1896 Viola Kress was today divorced from Wm. Kress by Judge O'Rourke. Later the Judge granted Matilda Wile a divorce from Wm. N. Wile.

• 3 Dec 1896 The Alice M. Payne vs. A. T. Payne divorce case has been dismissed.
• 4 Dec 1896 This afternoon Judge O'Rourke granted a divorce to Esther V. Crane from Delbert K. Crane. The plaintiff was granted the custody of the children till further orders from the court.
• 5 Dec 1896 Mary E. Bauman has been granted a divorce from J. Bauman.
• 9 Dec 1896 This afternoon, Judge O'Rourke granted Ida Carlson a divorce from Luther M. Carlson on the grounds of abandonment. The plaintiff resides at Monroeville.
• 9 Dec 1896 Mrs. Maria Keck has applied for a divorce from Alfred Keck. The complaint says that Keck is a brutal husband, that he observed the 4th of July by brutally assaulting his wife, and at another time he slashed a razor at her throat. A divorce and the custody of her child is asked for.
• 11 Dec 1896 Ida Carlson has been granted a divorce from Luther M. Carlson and the right to assume her maiden name, Ida Schoonover.
• 11 Dec 1896 This morning Judge O'Rourke granted Mary Griner a divorce from Christopher Griner, the custody of their child and $850 alimony.
• 11 Dec 1896 This afternoon Amelia Doenges applied for a divorce from William Doenges, alleging cruel and inhuman treatment, drunkenness and the use of foul epithets. Mrs. Doenges says that when her last child was born she was compelled to seek shelter in the poor house because she could not receive proper care at home.
• 14 Dec 1896 Margaret Orr has secured a divorce from Rezin Orr, the labor leader.
• 28 Dec 1896 This morning in superior court, Thomas A. Jackson applied for divorce from Mary A. Jackson. The parties to the suit live in the country.
• 29 Dec 1896 The divorce suit of Charles Jacoby vs. Addie Jacoby has been dismissed. The suit was filed six months ago but the domestic troubles have been pacified.
• 29 Dec 1896 This afternoon Judge O'Rourke granted Emma Mueller a divorce from Frederick Mueller on the grounds of failure to provide.
• 31 Dec 1896 Mrs. Maude Woodruff has applied for a divorce in the superior court from Andrew J. Woodruff. They were married at Decatur in 1888. The plaintiff left her husband in February last, she says because he abused her, accused her of adultery and other serious offenses. She also alleges that last week he choker her. The plaintiff seeks to recover $1000 alimony.
• 31 Dec 1896 Rachael White against Rufus A. White and $2000 alimony. These two couples want to begin the New Year right.

Some of the cases listed were dismissed and others resulted in divorce decrees.