Generations of Strong Women: The Concklin Family Matriarchs
By: Jason Gerber
The story of the Concklin family spans over four centuries, with its roots firmly planted in Rockland County, New York. While much attention has been given to the pioneering men who built farms and fought in wars, the history of the Concklin family would not be complete without recognizing the remarkable women who shaped its legacy. Through their resilience, determination, and love, these women were the backbone of the family’s enduring presence in America.
This article explores the lives of the Concklin family’s matriarchs, focusing on how they influenced their family, community, and future generations.
Leah Hannah Miller Concklin: The Early Matriarch
Leah Hannah Miller Concklin, born in 1871, was one of the key matriarchs of the Concklin family. Married to Ervin Raymond Concklin, Leah’s hard work and deep commitment to her family defined her life. She raised her children on the family’s farm in Pomona, New York, during a time when women were expected to manage both household duties and assist with farm work. Leah’s contributions to the farm were essential, but her influence extended far beyond the fields.
Leah was also a dedicated diarist, leaving behind letters and writings that provide a glimpse into her daily life and the challenges she faced. These documents reveal her role as a wife and mother and a key figure in maintaining the stability of the family’s farm and legacy. Leah shared her wisdom with future generations through her letters, passing down family values, traditions, and practical knowledge that helped the Concklin family thrive.
Isabelle Leah Concklin Roeland: Preserving Family Legacy
Isabelle Leah Concklin Roeland, born in 1905, was another influential matriarch in the Concklin family. As Leah’s eldest daughter, Isabelle was deeply connected to her mother’s values and traditions, and she carried them forward in her own life. Isabelle played a significant role in preserving the family’s legacy, particularly through her writings and letters, which are now part of the family’s treasured historical documents. She was also lifelong dedicated to her religious beliefs.
Isabelle’s diaries offer insights into the life of a 20th-century woman living in rural New York. She wrote about the joys and struggles of raising her children, managing the family farm, and maintaining connections with her extended family. Isabelle’s letters, often addressed to her siblings and children, reflect her strong sense of duty to preserve the family’s history. She carefully recorded family stories and ensured that the next generation would understand the significance of their heritage.
She persevered through challenges that none of her other siblings had to endure. She was the last of her sisters to marry. Her husband, a minister, tragically passed away just before their daughter was born. Isabelle found the strength and determination to successfully raise her own daughter as a single parent.
Margaret Elizabeth Concklin Schultz: Strength in Simplicity
Margaret Elizabeth Concklin Schultz, born in 1908, was yet another remarkable woman in the Concklin lineage. As the daughter of Ervin and Leah Concklin, Margaret grew up on the family farm and carried the values of hard work, resilience, and dedication to family into her adult life.
Margaret’s personal history, recorded and transcribed by her daughter Beverly Schultz Csordas, paints a picture of a woman who balanced the demands of family life with grace. As a child, the farm’s daily routines shaped her life. She lived almost her entire life in the farmhouse where she was born and took pride in her ability to manage both household duties and farm work. Margaret’s strength lay in her ability to create a warm and loving home for her family while contributing to the ongoing success and sense of place. She was the Orchard’s gatherer and keeper of Concklin. Family documents and heirlooms, which were then handed down to her daughter, Beverly.
Despite the challenges of rural life, Margaret’s simple yet profound dedication to her family ensured that the values of the Concklin matriarchs continued through the generations. Her personal history, now preserved in The Olden Days: My Mother’s Family History 1594-1997, serves as a testament to her enduring legacy.
Eleanor Concklin McCleery: A Voice of Reflection
Eleanor Concklin McCleery, born in 1907, was another of Ervin and Leah’s daughters. Though her life took her away from the family farm, Eleanor’s connection to her roots remained strong. Her daughter, Jean McCleery Forman, provides a tribute to Eleanor’s life in The Olden Days, offering a reflection on her mother’s strength, intelligence, and deep family loyalty.
Eleanor’s life story reminds us of the many women who, while living away from the family farm, carried forward the values of hard work, faith, and resilience that had been passed down through generations. She remained a steadfast supporter of her siblings and children, ensuring that the family’s bonds remained strong, even from a distance.
Conclusion
The Concklin family’s history is rich with stories of strong women who helped maintain and shape their legacy over centuries. From Leah Hannah Miller Concklin to Margaret Elizabeth Concklin Schultz, each generation of women played a vital role in preserving the family’s values and traditions.
To learn more about the lives of these incredible women and the history of the Concklin family, explore The Olden Days: My Mother’s Family History 1594-1997, written by Beverly Schultz Csordas. This deeply personal and meticulously researched book offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the Concklin family matriarchs and the legacy they left for future generations.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
