Attending to Spiritual Life in Mt Healthy, Ohio

The Significance of Religious Freedom in Mount Healthy's Early Settlers

Religious and political freedom played a vital role in the lives of early settlers in Mount Healthy. Many of these individuals held deep religious beliefs that shaped their daily lives and community interactions. Among them, German immigrants sought refuge from religious persecution and the political unrest plaguing their homeland. Consequently, local Lutheran, Methodist, and Catholic churches conducted services in German, a practice that persisted until the World War I era when anti-German sentiment rose.

In 1826, the Mount Pleasant Union Meeting House was founded as a welcoming space for all denominations, embracing the principle of "the use of all denominations and the exclusion of none." The first congregations to utilize the meetinghouse were Presbyterians, United Brethren, and Lutherans. Over time, as these small groups of worshipers expanded, they eventually built their own churches. By 1853, the majority of these congregations had transitioned into their own church buildings, contributing to Mount Healthy's skyline, characterized by a multitude of church steeples.

The Church of the Assumption congregation, meanwhile, gathered in nearby Catholic churches until their community grew large enough to warrant constructing their own place of worship. While several of the churches organized at the meetinghouse continue to exist today, others, such as the African American church and the Presbyterian church, have since disappeared. Notably, the Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church ceased operations in 1874 after numerous Presbyterians migrated closer to the newly established College Hill Presbyterian Church.

Throughout its history, the meetinghouse also hosted a variety of other religious groups, including Christian Connection, Swedenborgians, Restorationists, Unitarians, Universalists, Old School Baptists, Mormons, and Quakers. However, many members of these groups eventually moved on to join other churches and communities.

Early Mount Healthy pioneers were frequently laid to rest in family plots on their farms. The city is home to several cemeteries, with the Hoffner Graveyard once serving as the yard of the United Brethren Church. The Steward Graveyard eventually transformed into the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, featuring three distinct sections: Protestant, African American, and St. Mary Catholic. Additionally, the Arlington Memorial Gardens, opened in 1932, remains an active burial place for Mount Healthy residents.

Although this chapter primarily examines the earliest churches in Mount Healthy, it is crucial to recognize that numerous young and thriving churches continue to shape the area's spiritual landscape. The ongoing diversity of religious beliefs in and around the community serves as a testament to the enduring importance of religious freedom in Mount Healthy's rich history.

"Aunt Sallie" LaBoiteaux, as she was known, was a lifelong member of the Mt. Healthy Christian Church. For over 50 years, she taught primary age boys in Sunday school. On her 86th birthday, her boys sent postcard greetings from around the world. She was the daughter of early pioneers Ben and Mary (Gogin) Runyan and the wife of Frederick LaBoiteaux, whose grandfather plotted Mount Pleasant in 1817.

Jacob Cist

 Jacob Cist, born on March 13, 1782, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a man of many talents and accomplishments. His contributions spanned various fields, including entrepreneurship, art, science, invention, and entomology. Cist's diverse skill set made him an influential figure in the early 19th century, particularly in the Wyoming Valley of Pennsylvania.

Educated at the Nazareth Boys' School of the Moravian Church from 1794 to 1799, Cist developed a passion for drawing and painting under the tutelage of French drawing-master M.A. Benade. His artistic prowess became widely recognized, with his sketches of "Solomon's Falls," "Buttermilk Falls," and an array of plants and insects showcasing his keen eye for detail and beauty.

In 1803, Cist demonstrated his inventive spirit by creating and patenting a mill for grinding pigment. This invention not only streamlined the process of pigment production but also contributed to the growth of the paint industry in the United States.

Cist's creative talents extended beyond the visual arts. He also designed banknotes for The Susquehanna Bank of Wilkes-Barre, marking an early effort to establish a local bank in the region. These banknotes, adorned with intricate designs, were testament to Cist's versatility as an artist and his impact on the financial landscape of the area.

As an entrepreneur, Cist made a name for himself in the anthracite coal industry. He became a pioneering figure in the marketing of anthracite coal and was highly regarded for his extensive knowledge of its economic potential. Cist played a crucial role in promoting the use of anthracite coal as an alternative energy source, thus contributing to the development of the Wyoming Valley.

Apart from his artistic and entrepreneurial endeavors, Cist was also a dedicated naturalist and entomologist. His curiosity and passion for the natural world led him to study and document various flora and fauna, making significant contributions to the field of science.

Jacob Cist's life was tragically cut short on December 30, 1825, but his legacy as a multi-talented pioneer endures. His accomplishments in art, science, and industry have left a lasting impact on Pennsylvania's cultural and economic landscape, cementing his place in the annals of American history.

Fife and Drum Music in Colonial Times and Military Camp Life

 

Fife and drum music held a pivotal role in both colonial times and military camp life during the Revolutionary War era, serving as a melodic communication system for soldiers. Different tunes were played to signal various aspects of daily life and special occasions.

In military camps, fife and drum music was essential for organizing the soldiers' day. Specific tunes were designated to communicate daily tasks such as waking up, eating meals, and performing camp chores. These melodies effectively regulated the working day, ensuring that everyone remained coordinated and on schedule.

Beyond the routine tasks, fife and drum music was also integral in maintaining morale and fostering camaraderie among the troops. Musicians would often play lively, uplifting tunes during leisure hours to entertain the soldiers and create a sense of unity within the camp.

During special occasions, such as ceremonies or celebrations, more elaborate and formal compositions would be performed. These pieces would convey the importance and solemnity of the event, highlighting the shared experiences and values that bound the soldiers together.

In addition to its practical uses in the military camp, fife and drum music was deeply rooted in colonial life. As an extension of the European tradition, fife and drum ensembles were a popular form of entertainment and community engagement. Local musicians would perform at gatherings, celebrations, and public events, showcasing the vibrant musical culture that flourished in the colonies.

In conclusion, fife and drum music played a significant role in both the daily routines and the special events of colonial times and military camp life. By providing a means of communication, fostering camaraderie, and enriching cultural experiences, fife and drum ensembles contributed immensely to the social fabric of the Revolutionary War era.

Robert Scott Duncanson's connection with LaBoiteaux and Marston Allen family.

 

Isaac Newton LaBoiteaux's house in Mt. Healthy, Ohio as painted by Robert Scott Duncanson in the National Gallery, Washington, DC.

This is a portrait by John Jay Aubrey of Marston Allen, Glendale, Ohio. The portrait hung at the downtown Ohio Mechanics Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio for many years until the new building of the University of Cincinnati was built.

This Robert Scott Duncanson painting has been in the Marston Allen's family for many generations.  The painting was in our posesion until the late 1990's until it was sold.  Marston Allen was on a committee that helped Duncanson travel to Europe to England, Sweden, and elsewhere.

The Enduring Influence of Isaac Newton LaBoiteaux Sr. and Marston Allen on Ohio's Cultural Landscape

The family names LaBoiteaux and Allen hold significant historical importance in the communities of Glendale, Mount Healthy, and College Hill, Ohio. Key figures such as Isaac Newton LaBoiteaux Sr. and Marston Allen played vital roles in shaping these areas during the 19th century, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to impact Ohio's cultural landscape.

Isaac Newton LaBoiteaux Sr. (1828-1894) was an influential figure in the College Hill area, having owned and resided in the Octagonal House, an architectural landmark that is now the site of the Hammond North Condominiums and LaBoiteaux Woods. LaBoiteaux's legacy is preserved by the College Hill Historical Society, which maintains photographs and additional information about his family. Additionally, LaBoiteaux Sr. was a member of the Ohio Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, linking him to Captain John Laboiteaux, who fought in the Revolutionary War.

Marston Allen was another pivotal individual, contributing significantly to the development of Glendale, Mount Healthy, and College Hill.

Bracebridge, Ontario Ojibway 2024 POW WOW

 The Bracebridge, Ontario 2024 Ojibway and Iroquois Indian POW WOW was well attended. 

The 2024 Ojibway Indian POW WOW: Embracing In-Person Experience and Spiritual Connection During Canada Day in Bracebridge, Ontario

The town of Bracebridge, Ontario, is set to host the highly anticipated 2024 Ojibway Indian POW WOW, an event that brings together communities to celebrate and honor the traditions and heritage of the Ojibway First Nations people during Canada Day on July 1st. This annual gathering, held in the heart of the Muskoka region, highlights the importance of cultural identity and tribal life in contrast to secular living while fostering a deeper understanding and connection through in-person experience and spiritual exploration.

The Ojibway Indian POW WOW, scheduled for Canada Day 2024, aims to foster understanding, appreciation, and respect for indigenous cultures. The event features a variety of traditional dances, music, and craftsmanship, offering visitors the chance to experience the vibrant and diverse cultural practices of the Ojibway people in person. To preserve the sanctity of the experience and encourage genuine connection, video recording of the ceremony is not permitted, emphasizing the value of in-person participation.

This celebration serves as a platform for indigenous artists, performers, and craftspeople to showcase their talents and share their stories with a wider audience. As an integral aspect of tribal life, the powwow stands in contrast to the more secular celebrations that typically take place on Canada Day, highlighting the importance of cultural identity for the Ojibway people. By attending the event in person, visitors can engage with the rich, sensory experience of the performances and gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate details and energy that permeate the atmosphere.

In addition to the captivating performances, attendees can explore a variety of vendors showcasing authentic indigenous crafts and artwork. The powwow is an excellent opportunity for visitors to engage directly with artisans and learn more about the stories, techniques, and cultural significance behind their creations. From intricate dreamcatchers to hand-carved wooden sculptures and jewelry, there is no shortage of treasures to admire and appreciate at this event.

As attendees witness the powerful performances and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry on display, they are also invited to delve into the spiritual explanations that underpin the event. By gaining insight into the underlying beliefs, meanings, and symbolism associated with the powwow and its practices, visitors can develop a more profound understanding of the connections between these practices and the spiritual worldview of the Ojibway people.

The town of Bracebridge, located on the traditional territory of the Ojibway Nation, is the ideal setting for the powwow. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Muskoka region, the event is a celebration of the deep connection that the Ojibway people have with the land. As participants and spectators come together to honor and celebrate the traditions of the Ojibway First Nations during Canada Day, the event will undoubtedly strengthen ties between indigenous and non-indigenous communities and leave a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to attend.

In conclusion, the 2024 Ojibway Indian POW WOW promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved, offering a unique opportunity to embrace both the in-person experience and spiritual connection that underscore this vibrant celebration of indigenous culture.

Museum of Appalachia- Northern Georgia- USA

 My trip to the Museum of Appalachia in northern Georgia was educational and enlightening. The museum adds answers to my questions about how and why individuals and families settled in this area and started their own way of living.

This experience shows a very simple way of live. It also bridges a realization that many old time traditions were developed and saved from generation to the next generation. I am focusing on a musical tradition using the dulcimer.  There is a photograph of a Alberta Brewer playing her musical instrument by a fire where the flames move with the sounds of home made songs. 

The Della McNeil's Friendship Quilt is a fine example of what women did in groups. It was a way to talk life out, raising children, food insecurity, and other daily life issues.  Keep in mind that this is a time period that many families of the previous generations had many children, 10,12,18, or more children. Some of these children moved to different areas to start their own families. The McNeils were such a family. This family moves westward with the Ohio Company during the expansion of the Northwest Territory.

This is a photo in the museum that shows a photo of the internationally known author of Roots, Mr. Alex Haley. I remember this mini series on TV in the 1970's. 

This is a photo of the Tree of Life meaning that was past down orally in the community. Usually it was a single person's home that people would go to to catch up and learn meanings of the Tree of Life.

This is a Tree of Life mural that is inside the museum.

This is a lovely photo of Alberta Brewer. Imagine if you will, family stories that have been passed down, both good and bad stories, and set it to music of her own design.

Author at the entrance of Museum of Appalachia.

America 250

America 250

America 250 is a year long event that is planned for the whole year 2026.  This year long celebration of America's history for the last 250 years will include many vantage points of individual and family history.

Cist family blog is a vantage point of history looking or added vantage points to be included. So this blog post is sharing with the readers to talk with cousins, and other family members to ask the questions that you are afraid to ask in order to possibly add your vantage point to add to America 250.

Recomendations: 

1.  Get a library card.

2.  Talk with family members. Write it down.

3.  Possible donation of historical items to museums.

4.  Make a financial donation to America 250

You matter. You count.  Get involved today. 2026 will be here soon.

Thank you readers for considering your involvement.

Andrew

 

Charles Cist letter to Mary Weiss- Philad. Aug 5, 1797

Mrs. Mary Cist

Fort Allen

-------------------------------------------

Philad. Aug 5, 1797

My Dear,

     It is with the greatest pleasure that I have received the news of your safe arrival and good state of health; I is with equal satisfaction that I can inform you of the wellfam o the whole family. making proper _____am for many health , which however not worse than common; perhaps my _____ ______ inform you that is better , as she has convented to try Dr._______ ______points wherever he has given Mr. Whitehead great relief an d which has _____ many attention______ ____ better than I expected my _____ customer all come in, and not a little work from fresh ones so that I have obliged to the a pressman. As given  sent all _____ in the price which you know! a great comfort  to me-- hope it will continue so ______behave like a little mother  to the children and Eliza deserves credit talk now for her behavior Harmony _____ in the whole family--------Now

Nothing new remains , my dear , for you, but to make you mind perfectly easy, to enjoy yourself and only mind your recovery; for as much as your presence otherwise contribute to my happenings , I would not wish you to return until you are perfectly re-stored to health___attention?  is making that eager  you return before.

Friendly acquaintances are well ---of worthiness happened to inform you of Mrs. Logley and Mr. Mapes for their love? Weiss ? later study his ? few battle token a whatever love with Mapes and ? the ? I could sect. He says I would be 5 days before I come home, otherwise I would have sent a couple of water me bus(?); but separate? would deliver  then to you, they would have been beaten to ? a the behind the new mountains

He has also Mr. Weiss, Portraits to deliver with other drawings include in a tin box. My best respect + love to Both. Mr. Weiss ? and Thomas with Mr. and Mrs. Bird. Remember me kindly to Mr.+ Mrs. Towel. 

                                                                          I embrace you affectionately and I am 

                                                                                                                     Your forever

                                                                                                                      Charles Cist

p.s.   Jacob and Lewis ? arrived from Nazareth ? talk in I must finish my letter; which I was prevented from doing before by unwanted interruption of business 

                                                                                                                    Yours  C. C.

A great deal of love from many, and all the children.  Example any ? and sending Parky Weiss; love to his dim? brother ???brother  + to you ? brothers

This Charles Cist letter shows an affectionate love between Charles and Mary Weiss. It also gives names of individuals to study further. Also, Jacob Cist was in Nazareth, PA. This is another historical research avenue to pursue. 

I welcome other historians to view this letter to assist in decoding other poorly read words due to difficult hand writing from Charles. Furthermore, what are the drawings in this tin box that he discusses in the letter. It is probably in St. Petersburg, Russia.

LaBoiteaux and Cist Antebellum Photo Album

Issac Newton LaBoiteaux, Sr.

 

Tom Thumb and his wife

?

?

Mrs. Issac N. LaBoiteaux, Sr.

?

Total Solar Eclipse- Piatt Castle, West Liberty, Ohio 04/08/2024

 Piatt Castle, West Liberty, Ohio was a great place to view the Total Solar Eclipse. There were outdoor educational classes about the different celestial events during the last one hundred years, a viewing telescope, special certified glasses to look at the eclipse, and a house tour. I purchased a T-shirt to commemorate the day at the castle.

Below are pictures of the eventful day at Piatt Castle.

There were many aspects that made today memorable. The fact that outdoor education is still taught brings a reminder of how individuals and families interacted with each other. There is a present day awareness of how many individuals and families still interact with each other whether they realize a connection of when people came over from Europe to the early British Colonies to start a new life. 

This photo of early Ohio settlements is shown because of the Piatt's involvement with the development of Ohio with many other families including both free men and slaves.

The Cincinnati Observatory Society was also present at Piatt Castle. A special telescope with filters was available for the view public. 

Army of the Cumberland by Henry M. Cist

I have purchased Campaigns of the Civil War Army of the Cumberland, Henry M. Cist. Chapter two discusses military implementations around Wildcat. This is a battlefield in Kentucky that I have filmed. Cist talked about how General Zollicoffer was a civilian appointment, with no military training. He had been an editor for a Nashville, TN paper. Zollicoffer was at Rock Castle and Wildcat. Thousands of troops were there to fight, eat, and plan strategies.

Benjamin Rush Philadelphia house site

(Camera indicates "Dr. Benjamin Rush House Site" sign.)

ANDREW:     This is the site of Dr. Benjamin Rush house site.  Dr. Benjamin Rush lived in a three-story house on this site from 1790 to 1793, a true son of the Enlightenment.  He was a physician, chemist, educator, author, abolitionist, and politician.  His treatise on mental illness was the first in America.  Rush served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and signed the Declaration of Independence.  Later, he supported ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

(End of recording.)

Nashville, TN Confederate Currency- Henry M. Cist/ Lewis Jacob Cist

 This blog post is continuing to explore a possible connection with how early American currency was used to conduct transactional affairs both within its borders and internationally.

Are there red ink signatures that are signed on Confederate currency? If there are red ink signatures with the next generation of currency could this be a link to a hidden meaning and/or a secret story? This currency does not have magical powers. It does show that there is more historical research to conduct. 

Why do I say this? As oral tradition goes in our family, I have noticed that there is a separation of information between the Henry M. Cist and Lewis Jacob Cist generation and the next generation of Henry's children. Edith Cist, a daughter of Henry M. Cist, married Charles Louis LaBoiteaux both families were from College Hill, Ohio. 

Edith Cist did not transfer oral tradition about these confederate notes to future generation. Theses notes were compiled together, but the story behind the notes continues. Very little information about the Cist brothers involvement in Nashville, TN has been passed down in the family. The photos of Cist brothers are from a Nashville photo shop that shows there were there during the Civil War.

One way to learn more about what I am trying to convey is to look at the signatures of these notes. For example, John Snyder on the 20 dollar note is the from the same Snyder family from the Union Chaplin Snyder who provided spiritual guidance and healing for soldiers during the Civil War. A later Snyder generation, the well known mid-western artist William McKee Snyder who painted forest paintings showed us were meetings took place, Individuals and families have there own stories to tell about how they used this forest space that William McKee Snyder painted for his audience. Some forest spaces were used to have secret meeting places during the Underground Railroad, other forest spaces were uses for a gentleman to spend time courting a lovely Antebellum lady. others just wanted to experience the different full colors of Red Maples, or a bright yellow from birch leaves, or a person could leave instructions, money for others to pick up a later date. There is freedom with your interpretation based on individual and family experiences during this time period.

Furthermore, Henry M. Cist was the attorney for Donn Piatt. When Henry Cist and Lewis Jacob Cist came back for Nashville, TN they went to Donn Piatt's home in West Liberty, Ohio. There is a connection between lawyer client privilege between (Cist and Piatt) and why certain historical information was omitted.

This next sentence is purely a theory perceptive. Why did Henry M. Cist go to Rome, Italy with his wife. Cist died in Rome, Italy. What else is in Rome? The Vatican, other spiritual and historical places.

Continue to cross reference names, dates, and family stories to learn more about why the Cist brothers pasted down this framed confederate currency display. Why are these notes arraigned this way. I now I ask myself many questions, but it is a way to get individuals and organizations talking about Cist family matters.

Charles Cist Continental Currency- York-town, 11th April 1778

 

This example of Charles Cist currency dated 11th April 1778 is to show that this currency note was signed in red ink. Many of the other currency notes  signed by other printers. were signed in black ink. There is a story to unfold here. Also, Benjamin Franklin invented a counterfeit measure by having leaves pressed together. This way each leaf can be judged as genuine and not fake.

Furthermore, my reacher has shown that this Cist note could be the only one left out of the notes that Cist had to redeem during the American Revolution. Cist was treasurer of the Continental Congress for a period of time. 

During the American Revolutionary War, Continental Currencies were issued by the Continental Congress to finance the war effort. These currencies were paper bills, which made them relatively easy to counterfeit. To combat this problem, the Continental Congress implemented several measures to authenticate Continental Currencies:

1. Signatures:

The most common form of authentication was the use of signatures from authorized individuals. Each bill would feature the signatures of one or more delegates of the Continental Congress, making it more difficult for counterfeiters to reproduce.

2. Watermarks:

Some Continental Currencies featured watermarks, which are subtle designs or patterns embedded in the paper that can only be seen when held up to the light. These watermarks were difficult for counterfeiters to replicate accurately.

3. Engravings:

Continental Currencies also used intricate engravings and designs to deter counterfeiting. Engraving required specialized skills and equipment, making it challenging for counterfeiters to produce convincing replicas.

4. Denomination-specific elements:

Each denomination of Continental Currency often had unique elements, such as different illustrations, mottos, or serial numbers, that helped to differentiate them and prevent counterfeiting.

During the American Revolutionary War, Continental Currencies were sometimes signed in different colored inks, including black and red. These color variations were often used to denote different denominations or issues of the currency. For example, black ink might have been used for lower denominations, while red ink was reserved for higher denominations.

In colonial times, inks were typically made from natural pigments derived from plants, animals, and minerals. Black ink was commonly made from carbon black, which is produced by charring organic materials such as wood, bones, or tar. To create red ink, colonial Americans would have used pigments like iron oxide (rust), crushed cochineal insects, or plant-based dyes like brazilwood or madder root. These pigments were ground into a fine powder and mixed with a binder, often gum arabic or egg whites, to create ink.

Pawn Star Episode- 250 Year Old Medical Book

 250 year old medical book

This is an example of a medical book that Charles Cist who graduated from the University of Halle with a medical degree would have used. I do not know if this is his own copy or not. 

Pewabic Writing assists viewers with a better understanding of who Charles Cist was by putting era related videos together to show more about his life and times.

This video is from Pawn Stars- 250 year old medical book.

Piatt Castle- Don Piatt Art benefactor.

Eliza Kirby, the Kirby family from College Hill had a family farm next to the Charles Cist (editor) family farm in College Hill. This shows a connection between the Piatts and Cists family. It is documented that Henry M. Cist and Donn Piatt fought at the Battle of Chickamauga, but Henry M. Cist was Donn Piatts lawyer during and after the Civil War.

George H. Thomas, The Rock of Chickamauga. Both Donn Piatt and Henry M. Cist were in this Civil War  group. These photos are at Piatt Castles in West Liberty, Ohio.

 

This moquette is a smaller version of a larger piece that is at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Piatts, Allens, Cists, LaBoiteauxs, and other families contributed to the art scene in the mid-west during the 1800's. I am sharing this to assist others to add to the growing list of individuals and families that helped grow the cultural areas from the mid-west.

Gilbert LaBoiteaux

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gq4C1yOU6Ag

The Youtube video is a demonstration on how an 1830 meal was prepared and cooked for visitors such as Lewis Jacob Cist and Henry M. Cist and Charles Cist (editor) would have experienced traveling in the wilderness.